Bend is earning national recognition and growing its community spirit at the same time, with two feel-good stories putting the city in a warm spotlight this week.

First, the accolades: HGTV has named Bend one of America’s top up-and-coming cities, according to Central Oregon Daily. The designation highlights what locals have long known — that Bend offers a compelling blend of outdoor adventure, vibrant culture, and a welcoming community that continues to attract newcomers and inspire pride among long-time residents. Landing on a nationally recognized list like HGTV’s is a meaningful nod to the city’s growing reputation as one of the Pacific Northwest’s most dynamic places to live.

Meanwhile, closer to home, Bend’s faith community is celebrating a milestone of its own. A new convent in Bend has welcomed three new sisters to the community, Central Oregon Daily reports. The arrival of the sisters marks a meaningful expansion of religious life in Central Oregon, bringing with it a spirit of service, prayer, and community connection that faith communities across the region have long valued. Convents have historically served as anchors of charitable outreach and neighborly care, and this new chapter promises to deepen those ties in Bend.

Together, these two stories paint a picture of a city that is not only gaining national attention but also nurturing the close-knit, values-driven community life that makes Bend special in the first place. Whether it’s the recognition of a major lifestyle network or the quiet dedication of three women choosing to make Bend their home and mission field, the message is the same: Bend is a place people are proud to call home — and others are eager to discover.

As summer rolls on and the city continues to grow, moments like these serve as a reminder that Bend’s greatest strength has always been its people and its sense of community.

Sources: Central Oregon Daily, Central Oregon Daily