Part II
This comes without shock or sugarcoating; Bend needs more diversity. Let’s face it, one can even say that Bend has more roundabouts than it is diverse. Though, finding diversity through entertainment is easier to spot. From music, cabarets and bingo, to art expos and open mic night can all be found at Silver Moon Brewing.
On my journalistic several-part series, I started my journey to gain a perspective on Bend’s entertainment culture and the venue owners behind it. Visiting venues and having the opportunity to interview many of these owners and experiencing what makes these establishments uniquely driving this culture. This is part two of my journey with Silver Moon Brewing’s General Manager, Steve Augustyn.
Silver Moon Brewing
The range of artists from NWA/ DJ Yellow and folk band Honey Don’t can be seen inside Silver Moon, Bend’s third oldest brewery. Surrounding the entrance, various food trucks are ready to serve lingering attendees within the patio area. To wash down the food, F*Cancer! is sold. F*Cancer is the name of a beer sold at Silver Moon supporting cancer research and charities. A portion of the proceeds gets donated to these charities.
Divided by the open alleyway, this two-building establishment can host multiple acts simultaneously. A smoky-colored mural of iconic musicians from past and present is displayed on the right side wall within the alleyway. This building hosts most live entertainment, and visual effects uniting the music and spectators for the ultimate experience. Hip-hop, rock’n’roll, you name it, the Silver Moon is open to all genres.
From popular-known vocals to inspiring locals, you can catch all levels of talent performing. You can find the comedy if you head to the building on the left.
You can even find the Broadside’s podcaster Liam Gibler performing comedic bits.
What does the Bend entertainment scene need more of? “Open-mindedness and diversity,” said Augustyn, in reference to business apprehension when providing a variety of entertainment.
Steve Augustyn’s background
Though listed as “Director of Brand Experience,” Augustyn explained that this title was outdated. A better description of his job is general manager and co-owner of Silver Moon alongside Matt Barrett and James Watts. Augustyn oversees distribution marketing, sales and daily operations.
Having worked at this establishment for three years now, Augustyn’s roots can be traced back to Pasadena, California. Adventuring off later to Nashville, Tennessee, Augustyn found work as DJ with a rock radio station until the station was bought by Titans Radio.
Augustyn then headed to Illinois to manage a series of nightclubs. Soon after, he returned west, overlooking the Tilted Kilt pub located in California. After enduring a divorce involving his three children, Augustyn moved on to Bend.
“My parents retired here, and I needed help with the three little kids,” he said. His extensive experience earned him the managing position at Silver Moon, finally working up the ladder to general manager and partial owner.
“If you don’t want to work hard, then you don’t want to work for me,” said Augustyn.
What’s Silver Moon shooting for next?
According to Augustyn, renovation to improve lighting, patio area and venue are some of the endeavors in store for the business, as well as big plans for hosting festivals alongside the surrounding business for this upcoming summer. Until next time, this is reporter Aaron Rasheed, aka The Broadside Kid, signing off.
Catch Part I of this series here.
Aaron Rasheed
Engagement Editor
