On the morning of Dec. 3, the Deschutes County Board of County Commissioners had quite a few things on its meeting agenda, as per usual. But this particular day, the meeting room filled up with citizens holding signs for only one reason — the 11am agenda item: “Recommendations from the District Mapping Advisory Committee to the […]
Tensions Rise as County Commission Receives District Map Proposal
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Things I’ve Learned: Executive Director Kat Mastrangelo
Who are your role models? I had the fortunate timing to work with the founding board members of Volunteers in Medicine: Jim Petersen, Jim Lussier, Bob Hakala, MD and Ron Carver, MD. They represent the epitome of a lifetime in service to others. They used their skills and connections to create a Central Oregon institution that […]
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Holiday DIY Gifts
The best holiday gifts are the ones made by hand—the kind that capture tiny fingerprints, watercolor splashes or creative flair that only kids can bring. From keepsake plates and homemade greeting cards to jars of rich hot cocoa and colorful rock photo holders, these affordable projects make it easy to craft something meaningful, memorable and […]
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Winter Bookshelf: The Winding Willow
What snowy good deed will you do when it snows? Hubert Cumberbun may be a tiny mouse, but he’s brave! Hubert is trying to get home. However, his path is not a clear journey. There is a mysterious tree holding treasures (his brother’s lost shoe!) and a beautiful yet hungry owl. Hubert tries to remember […]
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Winter Bookshelf: Weiwei’s Winter Solstice
What would you do if all you saw was snow? It’s the longest night of the year. The Winter Solstice is here. But this Chinese holiday looks different in Weiwei’s new home. And it’s cold out! You discover flowers and the river is sparkling. But even though this year’s Winter Solstice is different, it could […]
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Snow Much Fun
For some people, winter in Central Oregon means time to relax by a cozy fire, sip hot cocoa and watch the beautiful snow fall—all from indoors. But for many families, winter is an active season and one of the best times to get outside and take advantage of the snowy playgrounds our region offers. For […]
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Cozy Play Haven
With winter fast approaching, kids will be spending more time indoors. Instead of letting little ones stir up chaos in the kitchen or living room, consider creating a dedicated play space where they can channel their creative energy and imagination in a way that supports the overall family environment. One often-overlooked space for play is […]
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Playful Style
Children’s hair is a hot topic these days, with a focus on individual expression mixed with simple daily care. From throwback styles to classic cuts, hair can be an avenue for kids to show their personalities—and who doesn’t love a fresh hairdo to make those family photos pop? When children are young, their hairstyles tend […]
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BendNest Winter Calendar 2025
November 15 Flannel & FrostFUNDRAISER – This unforgettable evening brings the community together for a night of celebration, generosity and impact, featuring a lively auction, great food and plenty of flannel—all to support local youth programs.Boys & Girls Club of Bend | $150bgcbend.org/flannel-frost-gala/ November 15 + 16 Holiday BazaarSHOP – Shop for holiday gifts and […]
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Styling and Saving
As a kid I always wanted to wear the name brand stuff—Ralph Lauren, Guess, Tommy Hilfiger—you get the gist. Perhaps I was a bit vain, but I had various jobs as a teen that helped pay for most of my own clothing. I never even considered shopping at secondhand stores. College came and my perspective […]