Amazingly, Oregon is home to over 800 species of bees, a stunning figure that may surprise readers. Although most of those 800 are wild bees and not the ones we associate with honey production, all are native pollinators that play a huge role in keeping local ecosystems healthy by helping plants reproduce, which is crucial […]
All the Buzz
Posted inCulture
Eyes on the Sky
If you’re looking for a fun, family event, you need only look to the sky! The annual Balloons Over Bend is quickly approaching, with the festivities kicking off Friday, July 24 and concluding Sunday, July 26. “I think Balloons Over Bend is a magical event,” commented Julia Gilley, Event Director for Lay It Out Events. […]
Posted inKid's Corner
Dream Big
Monthly subscription kits for kids—with toys, crafts, science experiments, cooking and so much more—are all the rage these days, and for good reason. With supplies all bundled in one place and clear instructions on what to make or do, these convenient mail-to-your-doorstep boxes pack a ton of fun for a relatively affordable cost. Summer break […]
Posted inOutdoors
Summer Swim Spots for a Cool Off
This summer, whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or just a day at the beach, Central Oregon has no shortage of family-friendly locations, perfect for swimming, floating or boating with the whole crew. When it’s time to beat the heat, look no further than our own backyard. We have compiled a list of […]
Posted inBookshelf
You are a Burst of Color
By Choi Sook-Hee. Translated by Jieun Kiaer and Sarah Kiaer What colors will you see today and what feelings will you discover in a rainbow? This is a dazzling picture book for the whole family. It’s filled with brilliant yellows, fiery reds, new blue, cozy brown and other brilliant colors. “Clear blue arrives once a storm […]
Posted inBookshelf
Goldfinches
By Mary Oliver, Art by Melissa Sweet Do you hear the birds singing? Readers young and young-at-heart will feel like they are in nature while reading this poetry picture book. Discover a new poem filled with the wonder of birds, spring, summer, trees and nests. Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Mary Oliver creates a unique perspective shown […]
Posted inBest of the Nest
R.A.D. Camps
Interview with Owner, Chance Caruso With so many kids’ programs and day camps in Bend, what sets R.A.D. Camps apart from the rest? R.A.D. Camps has deep roots in Central Oregon and a philosophy that still feels rare: real free play in real places. We’ve been doing this since 2008, and instead of keeping kids […]
Posted inBest of the Nest
Bend Veterinary Clinic
Interview with Dr. Byron Maas, Owner How long has Bend Veterinary Clinic been around? Was it difficult to gain clients’ trust in the beginning? Bend Veterinary Clinic has been around since 1964 but under the current independent ownership since 2007. When Dr. Maas took over, there was a great response from the community to establish […]
Posted inBest of the Nest
Active Culture
Interview with Owner, Faye Wickland Active Culture, a family-owned and operated business, opened their doors in 2018 in Bend. This was their third location, after they opened the first two in Southern California; they just opened another location in Northern California. Owner, Faye Wickland fell in love with Bend on a visit and decided overnight […]
Posted inBest of the Nest
Best of the Nest 2026
Thanks to the hundreds of readers who cast their votes. We are proud to recognize the outstanding businesses that set the gold standard for serving families and children in our community. Cheers!