This coming June, Ponderosa Players brings the magic of Broadway to Central Oregon with “Guys and Dolls,” featuring a talented cast of 20 young performers, ages 11 to 18. Co-directed by founders Kisky Holwerda and Dash Conant, and choreographed by Holwerda, this production offers a delightful mix of nostalgia and modern flair. This production will […]
Ponderosa Players Take the Stage this Summer with the Broadway Hit Musical, โGuys and Dollsโ
BendNest Summer Editor’s Note
As summer approaches, there’s a certain buzz in the air. Here in Central Oregon, we perhaps experience the magic more intensely, since our winter tends to linger and overstay its welcome a bit. Now, the days are sunny and warm, and once again our humble town transforms into a river-floating mecca where every day feels […]
They’ll Be Hooked
Central Oregon is blessed with numerous beautiful, healthy bodies of water, many of which are world renown fishing spots. Our rivers like the Deschutes, Crooked, Metolius and the McKenzie, not to mention over 150 lakes, streams and ponds, all have their own distinct ecosystem. Introducing children to the great outdoors and these ecosystems opens up […]
There’s Something for Everyone
Abstract in Motion Camp Ages 6 and up 541-505-3318 abstract-in-motion.com /campsandevents Apex Football Ages 6-12 541-977-1358 apexfcbend.com/club/campsclinics Athletic Club of Bend Ages 6-10 541-385-3062 athleticclubofbend.com/youth-programs-copy-3 Avid 4 Adventure Grades Pre-K-12 720-249-2412 Avid4.com/summer-camps BEAT Children’s Theater Ages 4-16 541-419-5558 beatchildrenstheatre.org Bend Elks Baseball Club Ages 7-14 541-312-9259 Bendelks.com/upcomingcamps Bend Endurance Academy Grades Pre-K-12 541-904-5048 bendenduranceacademy.org Bend […]
I Made This
As a rule, most kids love arts and crafts, especially those that encourage maximum creativity! Simple projects that require kids to slow down and focus have multiple benefits โ including decision-making, confidence-building and math development, to name a few. If you learned to sew as a child, you probably still know enough to sew on […]
Taking Action
Summer fun means time outdoors with sunshine, barbecues and adventures, but it also brings an increased risk of burn injuries. Between sunburns, holiday fireworks, campfires and grills, accidents can happen when you least expect it. That’s why it’s critical for families to educate themselves on best practices for burn first aid and prepare with a […]
BendNest Calendar: Summer 2025
Wednesdays Bend Farmers Market LOCAL โ Showcasing 100% Oregon-produced goods, this family-friendly event features food, drinks, flowers, crafts and more. Saturdays from 3-7pm. Brooks Alley, Downtown Bend | Free bendfarmersmarket.com In-Depth Nighttime Visit LEARN โ Seek the stars at the nation’s largest collection of publicly accessible telescopes. Two-hour sessions include an educational presentation, night sky […]
The Hood River Fruit Loop
Last year, when my family took a road trip to the Hood River Fruit Loop, we were hooked. In fact, after filling our bags with fresh apples, pears and other fresh goodies, the trip became an instant annual tradition. For those unfamiliar with the Hood River Fruit Loop, it is a scenic 35-mile route running […]
Nest Bookshelf: Hello, Sun
Hello, Sun By Julie Downing What colors will you see in the sunshine? The days are filled with colors from morning to night. Do you see silver, yellow or pale light? Ladybugs, rabbits, squirrels and sleepy bears greet the day and night. Listen to the sounds around you. As night appears in warm colors of […]
Nest Bookshelf: Good Golden Sun
Good Golden Sun By Brendan Wenzel Are you ready to play? The mysteries of light are glowing in the dark. Readers will learn how the sun touches all aspects of life on earth. From animals, to plants, to soil, the sun impacts all life around it. What questions would you ask the sun or the […]

