Forever in Blue Jeans

I am often asked why I live in Pendleton. I usually respond that I prefer “the small-town feel” or “the slower pace of life,” but the question deserves a deeper, more thoughtful answer. For the most part, I am here because I was born and raised in Pendleton. According to the US Census Bureau, 72% of Americans live in or near the place where they grew up. Beyond the statistics, why do I choose to live in a small Oregon town, not lured away to the opportunities of the big city or the year-round warmth down south? If you Google the benefits of small-town living, you see reasons from brighter stars in the night sky to less traffic and fresh air. All these are good reasons, but I haven’t hitched my wagon to Pendleton to see brighter stars. For me, it’s a blue-jeans thing. You know, when you find that pair of pants that really fit you, you just want to wear them every day. Even though you can buy another pair the same size, it’s just not the same feel. With Pendleton, it’s about our unique identity.

We have a strong sense of community and history here in Pendleton. The story of the “Old West” is kept alive by our Pendleton Underground Tours, Umatilla Historical Society, and the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute; they remind us of where our town came from. The Pendleton Center for the Arts and Crow’s Shadow enrich our lives with world-class art and the Oregon East Symphony fills our ears and hearts with beautiful music several times a year. New events are being added every year including the Cattle Barons Weekend, Pendleton Whisky Music Fest, the Old Iron Show and Oktoberfest Pendleton. And, of course, you can’t hear the name “Pendleton” without thinking of the Round-Up and the Woolen Mills.

Even beyond these cultural attractions, we have a different approach to living here. The bonds between neighbors here are stronger and the sense of belonging is more profound than you might find in the big city. In Pendleton, people make the difference and volunteerism is at the heart of being a Pendletonian. If you are not finding Pendleton as enjoyable as you would like, get involved in our community. I urge you to volunteer your time and your talents and you can also volunteer by donating. Help out and contribute to your favorite non-profit organization or simply volunteer to help your neighbor. Pendleton has a plethora of causes and organizations to support. I guarantee that you will benefit just as much as those you serve and our community will be better for it.

Getting involved and staying engaged keep our community bonds strong and together we all make Pendleton a remarkable place to live. So, just like putting on that comfy pair of blue jeans, we can all get up every day, support our community, and be thankful we are at home here in Pendleton.

– Lonnie Read, Director, Pendleton Foundation Trust Board