Bend Nest Fall 2017

FALL 2017

Fall 2017

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FALL ISSUE

FALL 2017

Publisher

Aaron Switzer

Editor

Angela Switzer

Associate Editors

Amanda Klingman

Nicole Vulcan

Contributing Writers Annette Benedetti

Kim Cooper Findling

Edie Jones

Lizzi Katz

Sophia Sahm

Fall 2017

Calendar Editor

Anne Pick

Fall Issue Cover

Design

Euijin Gray

Photography

Photography Natalie Stephenson

Natalie Stephenson

Jewel Images

Advertising Executives

Amanda Klingman

Ashley Sarvis

BendNest Contact

Ban Tat

Editorial angela@bendnest.com

Chris Larro

Sales advertise@bendnest.com

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Experience the new Contemporary Family Dentistry with Dr. Jessica Henderson!

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CONTEMPORARY FAMILY DENTISTRY contemporaryfamilydentistry.com Fall 2017

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EDITOR’S NOTE

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ew sneakers, backpack, and a brand-new attitude. Who doesn’t love a fresh start? Once again, it’s that time of year when vacation is over, the kids go back to school, and everyone settles in to a comfortable routine. Do you have kids in a Montessori preschool? My son had the privilege of attending the Montessori Center in its very first year under the direction of an extraordinary woman, Ms. Elkins. Many years later, she continues to embody the philosophy of Maria Montessori, honoring children as unique individuals in her preschools. The exciting news for Central Oregon families is the opening this fall of Desert Sky Montessori as a charter school with the Bend-La Pine school district (see Lizzi Katz’s article in Education).

Outside of school, with the kids participating in fall sports, there is always the possibility of sustaining a concussion. Annette Benedetti covers signs and symptoms and reveals the seriousness of this type of injury in Health.

This issue we are proud to feature four local military families. Learn firsthand from these courageous men and women

what it takes to raise a family while serving one’s country.

Are you bringing home baby and want to make sure you’ve covered the bases? Prepare for some beautiful bonding time with local favorites in our Gear Guide.

And don’t forget, just because school has started doesn’t mean you can’t get outside with the family. In Outdoors, Kim Cooper Findling presents ideas for local harvest activities, including alpaca ranches, orchards, and farm to table dinners. Pumpkin patches anyone?

Even though summer is behind us, our calendar has never been so full. For families, the Central Oregon autumn is a fantastic time to get out and enjoy our surroundings. Happy harvest time and Halloween!

Enjoy!

When was the last time you received the personal attention you deserve and talked with someone about your health?

Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Therapy®, Bowenwork®, Relax and Renew® Restorative Yoga and Yoga Nidra Pain and postural imbalance resulting from accident, injury, surgery and chronic overuse/overtraining Digestive, urinary, reproductive and pelvic floor imbalance Pregnancy support from preconception through postpartum and cesarean recovery Insomnia, chronic stress, exhaustion and adrenal fatigue

Wendy Daray 541.350.7392 www.wendydaray.com

Licensed Massage Therapist #15930 Registered Yoga Teacher

Call or email for a FREE Health Consultation today!

Christie Reid, Holistic Health Coach Cindy Miskowiec, Nutritional Therapist www. synchronicitywellnesscenter.com info@synchronicitywellnesscenter.com

541-385-3224 Fall 2017

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PRODUCTS AND SERVICES YOU CAN COUNT ON:

& CARRY-OUT

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Prepared Meats for you to cook or take advantage or our no-charge BBQ Service Phone orders Tuesday through Saturday 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Email 24/7

“Bend’s Best”TM

BBQ & Dinner Plates All BBQ plates include your choice of 2 side salads and garlic bread

WE ARE COMMITTED TO DELIVERING TO YOU THE BEST POSSIBLE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE!

COUNTRY CATERING & CARRY-OUT 541.383.5014 bendcatering.com

Come Create with us At Your Community Art Studio

Fall Programs Begin Sept. 18 Open Studio Art Classes for all ages

Painting Marathon Oct. 6 FREE Kids Event from 4pm-7pm

Visit iartbend.com

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CONTENTS UPFRONT 5

EDITOR’S NOTE

9

EXPERT Q & A

11 BY THE NUMBERS 13 NEST NEWS

15 PARENTING

tart your kids and yourself out on the right foot with S parent-free playdate tips

26 GEAR GUIDE

repare yourself and baby for that special bonding time P with our fabulous local gear guide.

SECTIONS

39 ADULT TIME

16 EDUCATION

We all need an escape to relieve stress now and again. Check out these simple solutions.

19 CULTURE 21 KIDS IN ACTION 22 FEATURE 33 CALENDAR 39 BOOKSHELF 44 OUTDOORS 46 THINGS I’VE LEARNED

40 HEALTH

eed more info on the dangers N of concussions? Annette Benedetti sheds light on this important subject.

Jewel Images

FA L L R E G IS T R

AT IO N

NOW OPEN

when school’s out,

fun is in.

ART STATION CLASSES & CAMPS Get creative after school and on non-school days in a variety of multimedia art programs. Grades K - 12

ENRICHMENT WEDNESDAYS Great opportunities for expanded learning, enrichment and fun held at your child’s school on Wednesday afternoons. Grades K - 5

OPERATION RECREATION Offerings of recreation activities and daily field trips held on non-school days. Grades K - 5

To learn more about youth activities, visit bendparksandrec.org or call (541) 389-7275.

Fall 2017

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YOUR FAMILY IS OUR TOP PRIORITY Our number one goal is to provide the highest quality dental care for your child in a friendly, high-technology practice. Our caring and knowledgeable staff uses a kid-centered approach to ensure your child’s first visit to the dentist is a win!

We are also happy to serve teens as they transition into a healthy future.

FREE UNDER 3

FREE EXAMS FOR PATIENTS UNDER 3 YEARS FIRST VISIT ONLY

Call to Schedule an Appointment 541.389.3073 1475 SW Chandler Ave. Suite 202, Bend

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Q&A Michael A. Coffman, OD

OPTOMETRIC PHYSICIAN, COFFMAN VISION CLINIC

Q

Ever since the third grade, my teenage daughter has worn glasses. Now she hates her glasses but does not like wearing contacts.

Any recommendations for a self-conscious teenager?

A

There are new contact lens materials being developed every few years-especially in the dailies category. If it has been a while since your teen has tried contacts, it might be time to try them again. Maturity and motivation are key factors in contact lens success. The dailies option has been marvelous for comfort and convenience. Many young people dislike the evening routine of contact lens care, and few are good at monitoring the number of days before having to discard them. This frequently leads to dangerous contact lens habits, such as overnight wear. With dailies, you don’t have to deal with solutions or cleaning, making it much easier to keep things safe. A fresh lens every time you use them is finally within our grasp for most prescriptions. Some of the new materials are so comfortable that many patients forget they are wearing contacts. Having said this, there are some people who will never love contact lenses.

My recommendation, then, is to find alternate glasses for sun and sports and to invest in good lens coating technology and stylish frames for every day wear. A good-looking pair of glasses goes a long way to reassure a self-conscious teen.

Q

Whenever we watch TV together, my daughter inevitably ends up on the floor watching very close to the screen – she insists she likes it better

that way. Is it bad for her eyesight to sit so close to the TV?

A

First of all, she might be sitting so close because she’s having trouble seeing the TV. Have you had her eyes checked at the eye clinic recently? In general, though, sitting close to the TV can lead to increased myopia (near-sightedness). Any near activity - including reading, computer, tablets, phones, etc. can encourage the eyes to change shape over time to allow for better near focus, at the expense of distance vision. Prolonged focusing can be a stress on the system, and can cause headaches, fatigue, and increased myopia. So, I would encourage all TV viewers to stay at least 8 feet away from the screen and to look far away (out the window) for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. We call these “20/20 breaks.”

And have your eye exams yearly to see if your focus is changing.

Q

Recently, I realized that my twelveyear old son is colorblind. Is there a way to treat color blindness with some sort of therapy?

A

Color “blind” is really a misnomer, because these patients can see colors – they just see them in different shades than a color “normal” patient.

Reds and greens and browns are often similar in hue to these patients. Inherited colorblindness is not treatable with medications or therapy. Most patients live perfectly normal lives, but might elicit a chuckle from their color-normal friends when they try to match an outfit.

Certain military and law enforcement jobs are prohibited to colorblind patients

for safety reasons. For example, you wouldn’t want a person with red-green colorblindness to be responsible for cutting the blue wire rather than the green while disarming a bomb.

Here are a couple of interesting facts about inherited colorblindness: About 8% of all men in the world are colorblind, and only about 0.5% of women due to genetics. There are three types of color detector cells in the retina.

These cone cells will report red, green, or blue to the brain. Colorblind people are usually missing or have a difference in one of these three types of cells.

There are specially tinted spectacle lenses that claim to “cure” colorblindness. I consider myself an open-minded kind of guy, but I am skeptical for these reasons:

The lenses change the perception of colors, allowing some colorblind patients to differentiate the colors in question, but I suspect the effect would be distracting to most people. Can you imagine if you put on a pair of glasses and all the colors you are familiar with were now changed?

The emotional viral videos I’ve seen that promote these products seem a bit staged and overly dramatic to me — and I’m the guy who will cry at a Budweiser ad!

I don’t think that exploring this special lens option is going to harm anyone, but there really is no need to “cure” these patients. They aren’t sick or suffering and the special glasses probably would not allow them to become fighter pilots or bomb technicians even if that was their goal.

SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS ANGELA@BENDNEST.COM Fall 2017

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crayon

BY THE NUMBERS

The

ranks 18th on the list of most recognizable scents.

Source: Yale University study

Blue is the most popular favorite crayon color Source: Color census of 2000

Tan is the least popular favorite crayon color Source: Color census of 2000

In 1962, Crayola changed the color “flesh” to “peach” to recognize that skin tone comes in a variety of colors.

Back to School Source: kidsplayandcreate.com

Before the invention of the eraser, breadcrumbs were used to erase mistakes.

79.3%

Source: kidsplayandcreate.com

The percentage of children 3 to 6 years enrolled in school in the U.S. Source: School Enrollment – Social and Economic Characteristics of Students: October 2014

25.6%

The percentage of elementary through high school students who have at least one foreign-born parent.

Source: School Enrollment – Social and Economic Characteristics of Students: 2014

The tradition of giving apples to teachers dates back to the sixteenth century in Denmark, where parents would pay their educators with food.

$83.5 billion

The estimated dollar value of private and public educational construction in the U.S. Source: Value of Construction Put in Place Survey, 2015

A single pencil can be sharpened 17 times and can write 45,000 words.

Source: kidsplayandcreate.com

Source: whyguides.com

Fall 2017

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Enrich.

Explore.

Expand. Sean

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is undergoing construction this summer and opens to the public in the fall. The park will feature new additions such as a bike skills course, a skate park, a youth disc golf course and natural play areas. Similarly, Bend Park and Recreation District is planning renovations at Big Sky Park, including a new bike path and terrain elements for youth, as well as a trail connection to Buckingham Elementary School. Shevlin Park, meanwhile, will also soon feature an additional 300 acres of tree farm, acting as a community forest in the hopes of improving public access to nature. Look for new bike and pedestrian trails there too.

NEST NEWS

By Sophia Sahm

Cost of Care

Paying for child care continues to be a challenge for Oregon families. Oregon was just ranked second on the list of least affordable states for child care, ranked only behind the District of Columbia, according to Care.com’s Cost of Care Survey. However, Oregonians are not the only people experiencing the rising cost of child care services. The Care.com findings show that 32 percent of families spend 20 percent or more of their household income on child care, and 68 percent of families say the current tax deduction they receive from the Dependent Care FSA isn’t enough to have a meaningful impact on these costs. This child care cost epidemic continues to present a major problem for parents across the nation, putting more pressure on the federal government to subsidize child care costs, as well as pressuring employers to offer added benefits for working parents.

New Parks Attract Bend Families

The construction of several new parks in Bend offers wonderful opportunities for family fun. Coming soon is Rockridge Park, a 36.6-acre park in northeast Bend that

Incoming Mountain View Freshman Can Earn Associate’s Degrees A new program at Bend’s Mountain View High School allows incoming freshman to earn associate’s degrees by the time they graduate. The program, a result of a partnership between Mountain View and Central Oregon Community College, gives students the option of earning an Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer (AAOT) two-year degree, or a one-year transfer certificate called the Oregon Transfer Module (OTM). Freshmen in the program will work with advisers from both Mountain View and COCC to design a course of study that results in a 90-credit AAOT or a 45-credit OTM. These credits will be transferrable to any public university in Oregon and will save families and students thousands of dollars in college tuition. Programs throughout the nation allowing students to earn college degrees before completing high school are growing in number at about 7 percent per year, according to the National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships.

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MUSIC / GOURMET FOOD / HARVEST MARKET / FINE ART / KIDS / FAMILY

A rug for every reason.

“The people at ARC have been to rug shows near and far and are extremely passionate about their role in making The Area Rug Connection the place to buy authentic, gorgeous, unique rugs. They truly care. And, that is what sets this shop apart from all others.” - Laura H. NEW LOCATION:

201 SE 2nd Street - Bend, OR 97702

541.383.9013 info@arearugconnection.com arearugconnection.com

“To awaken a love for God,

a desire for learning and service to others.”

Three Sisters Adventist Christian School We provide a Christ-centered academic environment where students are nourished both spiritually and intellectually.

We offer a fully accredited academic program, Bible based curriculum, chimes and music, Mt. Bachelor ski program, 6th grade outdoor school, PE, and community service opportunities.

21155 Tumalo Road, Bend OR 97703

541.389.2091

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October 6-8 Friday 5pm – 11pm / Saturday 11am – 11pm Sunday 11am – 5pm oregonfestival.com/fall-festival

Let’s Get Together A Guide to Parent-Free Play Dates

By Annette Benedetti Play Dates.

Chances are, you’ve either been looking forward to them or dreading them. At first glance they seem like an opportunity to get a little “you time” in, but how do you know when it’s ok to drop your child off to play and then leave? And what about returning the favor? How often do you have to host a play date, and what are you expected to do with the kids while their parents are away?

Suddenly it all sounds like more work than it’s worth.

Take a deep breath and don’t give way to despair just yet. The following guide makes navigating play date etiquette easy, sets you up for success and guarantees some ongoing alone time.

When IS it OK to Drop Off?

One of the biggest dilemmas you will face in the evolution of your tyke’s social life is figuring out when it is ok to drop them off at a friend’s house. The truth is, the answer is vague but important—you don’t want to ruin your parent-free play date partnerships before they’ve even begun.

By ages five to six, most children have attended preschool and are comfortable saying goodbye to their parents for a couple of hours. In general, this is a good age to test the waters and see if they’re ready to be on their own at a birthday party or get-together.

While age certainly plays a role in deciding whether it’s ok to leave or not, there are equally important questions to consider such as: How comfortable are you and your child with the family?

Does your child experience separation anxiety?

How many children will be attending the play date, and is your child comfortable with all of the kids?

Your child is most likely ready to be dropped off for an hour or two of fun if the questions listed above didn’t raise any red flags or concerns and —most importantly of all—if it is ok with the hosting family.

If you want to reap the rewards of leaving your kids with someone, you must also host now and again. While having additional children in your care sounds like a lot of work, you might be pleasantly surprised to find that you get a little down time while the kids entertain each other.

If you are hosting a play date in your home, setting the experience up for success is as easy as providing snacks and having a couple of activities ready just in case boredom hits or redirecting is required.

Before deciding on snacks, ask your young guest’s parents about food restrictions, then keep it simple with:

Apples, oranges and bananas

Celery and peanut butter

Cheese and crackers

Yogurt and granola

Cookies and milk

PARENTING

Hosting Done Right

Planning activities for play dates doesn’t have to be complicated either. Consider the following: Dance Party: Everybody loves to dance! Turn up some tunes and let the kids DJ and go crazy! You can even throw a dance competition.

Build a Fort: Break out the blankets, pillows and chairs and let the kids get creative.

Dress Up: Have a couple of costumes ready or bring out some of those outfits and accessories you no longer wear.

Art: crayons, paint, clay and glue: kids love to create!

Tips for being a good guest:

Always be on time for drop-off and pick up.

Bring a snack or beverage for the kids to share. If your child has dietary restrictions, pack a snack or meal bag to make things easier for the host.

Make sure your child helps clean up before leaving.

Before you leave, offer to host the next playdate at your house.

Tips for the Host Family:

If your child has toys they don’t want to share, have them put them away ahead of time to avoid conflicts.

Ok all videos, movies and games with parents ahead of time.

In an effort to make pickups easy, give the children a 10-minute and then 5-minute heads up.

Duration and Overnights

The length of time a play date should last depends largely on development and comfort level. It’s best to start younger children with drop offs that are shorter in duration (approximately two to four hours). As your child gets older and you develop strong, trusting relationships with your play date partners, you can increase the length of time you leave or host a child. Eventually, as your child begins to feel confident on their own (typically between the ages of seven and nine) they will be ready for the next social step — the sleepover! Imagine that.

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EDUCATION

Busy at Work

Montessori charter school opens its doors in Bend

By Lizzi Katz

M

ontessori education, based on the observations and child-centered philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori, has been inspiring students and educators around the world for over 100 years. Now Central Oregon families interested in her approach will have a tuition-free option when Desert Sky Montessori opens its doors this fall as Bend –La Pine School District’s newest charter school.

The idea for Desert Sky was championed by a small group of Bend parents who were impressed with the benefits they saw from their children’s experiences in Montessori preschools. It took four years and a lot of work to bring their vision of a tuition-free Montessori school, open to all families, to reality. According to their mission, “Desert Sky Montessori will foster a prepared environment of freedom and discovery in which all children, regardless of socio-economic status, race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, or ability, will reach their full academic, social, and personal potentials. Graduates of Desert Sky Montessori will demonstrate creative thinking, self-discipline, respect, cooperation, and will build a solid foundation for future success.”

Housed in a renovated building in the Shopko Plaza on NE 3rd Street, Desert Sky will begin its first year

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with students in grades K-3, and then add a grade each year to serve K-4 in their second year, K-5 in year three, and K-8 beyond that.

Jodie Borgia, Desert Sky Montessori’s Head of School (and a Montessori educator for over 24 years), explained some of the key components of Montessori education:

INDEPENDENCE Montessori focuses

on students developing independent skills. Teachers demonstrate use of the learning materials, but students spend much of their time in multihour blocks of independent work time. During this time, students can move around the classroom to use learning materials on their own or in small groups. According to Borgia, this work time allows students to follow their interests and explore subjects in depth.

MULTI-AGE CLASSROOMS A Montessori class is composed of students whose ages typically span three years (the “Lower Elementary” class is made up of students in grades 1-3). Ideally, members stay with the class, and teacher, for the entire three-year cycle to create meaningful bonds. The grouping allows the younger students to learn from older students, and older students to gain confidence by acting as mentors to younger students.

MONTESSORI LEARNING MATERIALS In Desert Sky’s classrooms,

students will have access to traditional Montessori learning materials. These real objects, and the ways in which they are manipulated, are the tools that teach students to translate abstract ideas into concrete form.

An example is a learning tool called the Golden Beads, which teaches mathematical concepts with pearl-sized golden beads. Loose golden beads represent ones. Little wire rods hold sets of 10 golden beads—the 10-bar. Sets of 10 rods are wired together to make flats of 100 golden beads—and so on.

Children have many activities that help them explore the workings of these quantities. Later, because Montessori materials contain multiple levels of challenge, children use the beads to introduce geometric concepts. As Borgia explained, this multi-sensory approach helps even younger students understand academic concepts as they feel what a “one” is like, and compare that to the look, feel and weight of 100 or 1000 beads.

TEACHERS AS GUIDES

Trained Montessori teachers (all of Desert Sky’s lead teachers are Montessori trained) consider themselves guides and observers, preparing the learning environment and guiding their students towards new lessons and challenges rather than lecturing the class. As students gain mastery over concepts, teachers help them continue to explore and move forward at their own pace.

CHARTER SCHOOL GUIDELINES

While educational methods may look different at Desert Sky, as a charter school they are required to meet Oregon Core Standards. Ms. Borgia is confident that using the Montessori method will allow students to gain a deeper grasp of core concepts, and grow to become independent learners. Being a charter school also gives Desert Sky students access to services provided through the school district, including special services for students with medical or therapeutic needs.

Desert Sky Montessori will begin its first year with 108 students divided into four classrooms. There will be a Kindergarten class, a blended Kindergarten & First Grade class, and

two “Lower Elementary classes” with students in grades 1-3 blended together. While their charter with Bend-La Pine schools currently has them growing to include an “upper elementary” class (grades 4-6) and a middle school, the board of directors has a vision for a Montessori high school in the future. A typical day at Desert Sky will include a three-hour work block, lunch, group time and outdoor time. Before and after school care will be available.

Ms. Borgia is very excited for the new school year. In her words, “It’s all about independent learning. It’s all about your child being able to follow their passion and really engage in the work, and really enjoy school. It’s also about being part of a really close community”.

There are still openings for the 2017-18 school year at Desert Sky Montessori. More information and applications are available at dsmontessori.org

CENTRAL OREGON MONTESSORI OPTIONS BEND

Bend Montessori School Ages 3-9 / Downtown Bend / 541-678-3248 Deschutes River Montessori School Ages 18 months-6 years / Old Mill / 541-633-7299 Montessori in the Pines Ages 3-6 years / Northeast Bend / 541-905-2949 River Song School Ages 2-6 / Old Mill / 541-647-2739 (Summer program for students 6-9) Old Mill / 541-647-2739 The Montessori Center Ages 3-6 / Two Locations: Awbrey Butte & NW Crossing / 541-383-5163 Songbird Montessori Preschool Ages 2-6 / Southeast Bend / 541-382-1626

REDMOND

High Desert Montessori Ages 2 months – 12 years 12th & Evergreen / 541-516-6512

SISTERS

Mountain Montessori Ages 2- 6 / E. Adams Avenue / 541-549-0000

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The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

BEAT Children’s Theatre performs this delightful classic

J

By Sophia Sahm

ust as the weather turns colder and families look for ways to get young ones out and about, BEAT offers a wonderful theatre experience for young and old to enjoy. BEAT Children’s Theatre presents Mark Twain’s distinguished novel, “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer,” coming to the big stage in October.

Based on Twain’s book and set in Missouri in the mid-1800s, “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” is the tale of young Tom Sawyer and his neverending antics—whether it’s taunting Aunt Polly, tricking his friends into whitewashing a fence or narrowly escaping the clutches of a murderous villain. Along with his best friend, Huckleberry Finn, and his love interest, Becky Thatcher, Tom Sawyer gets up to all kinds of mischief, sure to delight audiences of all ages.

Director Sandy Silver embraced the ambitious task of recreating this masterpiece with child actors and actresses. Silver hails from New York City, where she began her theatre career and eventually earned a spot as a lifetime member of The Actors Studio.

“Sandy Silver has been in theatre, as both an actor and then a director, for over 70 years. She has taught, directed and performed all over the world,” said Bree Beal, Executive Director at BEAT. “Sandy has a passion for working with young actors,” said Beal, adding that Silver has experience directing and teaching at Young Actors Theater Company at 2nd Street Theater and Young Actors Conservatory at Innovation Theater Works.

“[Sandy] respects and believes in young people and has a gift for helping them realize all they are capable of,” said Beal.

“With Sandy directing, she’s sure to bring out the absolute best in each of these young actors,” said Daniel Knopp, an 18-year-old actor and co-stage manager at BEAT. “I couldn’t imagine a better director, crew, or cast to bring this show to life.”

“The Adventures of Tom Sawyer,” published in 1876, was not an immediate success, but gathered a follow-

ing with time. Although on the surface, the book details the pranks and adventures of a teenage boy named Tom Sawyer and his friends, upon taking a closer look, the tale explores personal growth, empathy and concern for others: important themes in today’s society.

“Sandy brought the play to us,” said Beal. “It is a story she loves and believes in. She will ask the actors to think for themselves and to prepare their characters at a level they may not yet have tried,” said Beal.

“Tom Sawyer” is unlike other productions at BEAT because it’s geared towards older youth performers, specifically ages 11 and up. Silver specifically chose the adult script of the play as opposed to the children’s script to give the actors a more intensive experience.

“The actors have all done theatre before and are ready to move beyond theatre basics to some more in-depth training,” said Beal. Some actors are even breaking past simple acting roles and learning backstage work as well.

In Knopp’s last production with BEAT, he worked strictly as an actor.

“Tom Sawyer” presented the opportunity for him to work alongside Silver as a co-stage manager, as well as perform the role of Mark Twain in the show.

“Having these two positions is a bit of a challenge,” said Knopp. “But Sandy has been very helpful through this new learning curve. She understands the stresses as both an actor and a crew member that I might be experiencing.”

The production runs October 5-7 at The Old Stone Performing Arts Center, first built in 1912 as a Presbyterian Church. It was the first church in Bend made out of stone and includes Gothic and Tudor style details. In 2006, the church became an event venue and eventually transformed into a performing arts center. The historic nature of the venue adds greatly to the feel of the production. The Old Stone is committed to “hosting and producing events that enrich the cultural vitality of the community by serving its artistic and educational needs,” according to their website.

Not only will this production offer a new portrayal of this classic tale, but it will fuel discussion and require the cast and audience alike to look for a deeper meaning.

According to Beal, “[Silver] says she directs by asking questions—the actors will be challenged to dig deep within themselves to find the answers.”

CULTURE

Now Presenting

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

October 5 -7 BEAT Children’s Theatre 541-419-5558 Tickets available at tickettails.com Fall 2017

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Bend Gynecology Welcomes

New Nurse Practitioner Ashley Gish, WHNP

• Specializing in Women’s Health • Personalized Holistic Approach • Nutrition and Lifestyle Counseling Lauren O’Sullivan, DO Alison Lynch-Miller, MD

Bend Gynecology 1102 NE 4th Street Bend, OR 97701

Accepting most inusrance call now for an appointment Call Now for an appointment 541.389.0450

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Sunriver Softball Pitcher is Ahead of Her Time Interview by Howard Leff Photo by Natalie Stephenson Like word problems? Try this one.

Question: Alli Parker’s sizzling fastball zips to home plate at a speed of approximately 55 miles per hour.

Assuming she’s pitching from about 45 feet away, how long does it take before the batter gives up all hope of hitting it, and instead thinks about joining the swim team?

Answer: About three-quarters of a second.

Or less.

Analysis Forget the hitting part. I’m just trying to catch it. Alli’s dad (and Central Oregon Fastpitch Coach), Dan Parker, has allowed me to slip on a catcher’s mitt to experience first-hand what it’s like to be on the business end of his daughter’s greatest weapon. Crouched behind home plate on a field at Bend’s Juniper Park, I feel the full force of a player likely destined for a stellar softball career. Her windup consists of aggressive footwork to build momentum toward the plate—followed by a full 360-degree arm rotation before pulling the trigger. Alli throws bullets.

She’s all of 12 years old.

“It’s just a lot of hard work and a lot of hours of practice—and a lot of coaches have helped me,” says Alli. “I’m playing up. I’m 12, but I’m playing in a 14U (a league with girls 14 and under). And when I strike a lot of girls out that are older than me, and they really don’t hit off me a lot, that’s when I feel like I’m better than a lot of people.”

Dad has seen this coming for a while. “We realized that at about 10 [years old] she naturally threw hard underhand,” says Parker. But like most girls that throw hard she was inaccurate. That’s what she’s been working on for the past several years.” Alli’s constant drive to get better really makes her stand out.

“She works hard,” he says. “She works after work. Even

As for Alli, she’s definitely aware how much her parents have helped. “They’re really important,” she says. “Without them, I don’t really know where I’d be right now.”

All the hard work paid off over the summer when Alli was picked to play for the Northwest Mountain team at the USA Softball All American Games in Oklahoma City. This elite tournament is for 12U (12 years old and under) eligible girls across the nation—limited to the top 360 girls in the country.

KIDS IN ACTION

Alli All-Star

after practice she’ll come home sometimes and keep pitching.

If her arm isn’t sore, she’ll throw. She always wants to go.”

It was Alli’s chance to shine on a national stage. “They picked six girls from Oregon, six from Washington and two from Alaska. It’s a good honor to play on this team,” she says. Playing 14U helped me get ready for that because I’m playing with bigger girls.”

Not bad for a girl entering seventh grade this fall.

“She’s very passionate about this game,” says Ty Godfrey, another one of her coaches.

“She wants to be the best at what she does. Alli always steps on the mound with determination to be able to shut down every batter.”

Godfrey’s confident that things will only improve. “She’s got a shot at a Division I school. Oregon, Washington—something like that could definitely be in her future—for sure.”

Fall 2017

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Bringing Home Baby Content & Art Direction by Amanda Klingman Photos by Jewel Images | Models Lindsey & Kaia Mae Cox

WubbaNub Infact Pacifier with permanently attached paci helps prevent the “missing paci” problem while little legs on plush animals are perfect for tiny hands to grasp $15.99 Baby Phases

Diapers? Check. Carseat? Duh. You’ve got the staples covered but bringing home baby can still be a bit, well… overwhelming. You don’t need every product under the sun to survive those beautiful and bewildering first few weeks at home, just those that soothe baby and support Mamma. Bend Nest brings you our wisest recommendations for products that can be purchased locally to help making bringing home baby even sweeter.

Cloudb Peaceful Panda plays soothing sounds for better sleep $27.95 - $32 Hopscotch Kids

Sophie the Giraffe has been delighting infants and toddlers for decades and is still creating squeals of joy! $27.95 Hopscotch Kids

Eco-Piggy Pacifier and Brombie Wooden Bead Clip promotes breastfeeding and helps mom “keep it together” $24.99 Baby Phases

Aden & Anais Muslin Swaddle Blankets are breathable and oh, so versatile. Large enough to cover a car seat but perfect for recreating the feeling of the womb when used as a swaddle $39.95 for a set of 3 Hopscotch Kids

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NoseFrida, the snotsucker sounds silly but this doctor designed aspirator actually gets the boogies out helping baby breathe and rest better $19.99 Baby Phases

Goumimitts are simply, yet intelligently designed mittens that stay on tiny hands protecting baby from scratches and germs $11.99 Baby Phases

Swaying, curved seat that soothes from baby to big kid. This motor-free marvel gives parents a break and baby a delight without cluttering up your living room. $229.99 - $269.99 Baby Phases

Splish Splash, baby needs a bath! Newborn Bath Set includes bath, towel, washcloths, hooks and a first bath guide $76.95 Hopscotch Kids

Moms on the go can find fashion and function in the Skip Hop Simply Chic Diaper Backpack $99.99 Baby Phases

The Paisley Rocker makes story time, lullabies, nursing and napping even more lovely with beautiful design that looks as good in the living room as it does in the nursery. $599.99 Baby Phases Sudara Mina Robe is perfect for those early morning and late night feedings when comfort and accessability are the priority and style is a bonus. This local company also helps provide opportunities to women and children who have escaped human trafficking. $79 Oregon Body and Bath

Fall 2017

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L ocally made Blankie, Burp Cloth and Bib set with attached pacifier for quick and easy cleaning and soothing $39.50 Baby Phases

My Breast Friend Breastfeeding pillow supports Mom with a back and arm rest and cradles baby into the latching position. With convenient pockets to hold your breastfeeding accessories, this pillow is loved my new moms and the #1 choice of lactation consultants $44.99 Baby Phases

4-in-1 Cover by Covered Goods serves as a nursing cover, car seat cover, shopping cart cover and infinity scarf for stylish and practical moms $34.99 Baby Phases

Skip Hop Activity Gym with eye-catching animals, music, textures, teethers, rattles, tummy time pillow and more is pure entertainment for newborns and infants ready to explore $89.95 Hopscotch Kids

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Moby Wrap baby carrier holds baby safely and securely in an upright position helping to alleviate colic while promoting bonding and giving Mamma an opportunity to be hands free $44.99 Baby Phases

C hamomile Dream Aromatherapy to fill your day and your home with serenity $8.95 – $26.95 Angelina Organics Skincare

Need another excuse to soak in the tub? Terramoor Restorative Herbal Mud Bath immerses Mamma in a therapeutic and detoxifying soak that improves circulation and helps rejuvenate $32.95 Angelina Organics Skincare

Healthy Mamma Happy Baby Pregnancy, labor and holding your little bundle of joy for hours a day takes a toll on the body.

For natural and powerful relief look no further than locally made Angelina Organics Sore Muscle Rubs. $13.95 Angelina Organics Skincare

omfort those chapped C little cheeks with soothing and protective Maximum Strength Diaper Ointment $16.95 Angelina Organics Skincare

Create a calming ambiance before nap time or bath time with Oregon Lavendar and Sage Essential Oil Soy Candle $23 Angelina Organics Skincare

ABRA Bath Salts with essential oils formulated for stress therapy, sleep and relaxation $5.75 $7.25 Oregon Body and Bath

S onoma Lavendar Wrap can be heated and used for muscle relaxation for Mama.

Perfectly designed for lower back aches. $42 Oregon Body and Bath

New Moms are often advised to “sleep when the baby sleeps” which can seem impossible in the middle of the afternoon. Yala pure silk eye shades can help provide blissful rest for Mama anytime of day. $20 Oregon Body and Bath

Fall 2017

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Military

Family INtel Interviews by Howard Leff / Photos by Natalie Stephenson Military service can be one of the most rewarding experiences of a lifetime. With a spouse and family, however, things can get complicated. Time away, worry of a loved one in harm’s way, single parenting for extended periods, are all concerns that are unique to these families. Bend Nest caught up with four stellar Central Oregon military families that are up for doing whatever it takes to hold down the fort at home while supporting their loved one as they serve our country.

Dr. Tran Miller, D.M.D., Army

I feel fortunate. I mean how many dentists get to fly into the jungle of Honduras on Chinooks for humanitarian missions, or ride Humvees, or fly on Blackhawks with night vision through Iraq to treat soldiers with dental needs, and have combat medical training? These experiences are one of a kind, but the best part is the friendships and camaraderie that last a lifetime.

How does your service abroad impact your family life here?

My second mobilization was to Honduras in May through August of 2014. I had two daughters, then, ages 4 and 18 months. It was a much shorter mobilization the second time around, but with two young children at home it had a bigger impact on my family life. My husband had become a single parent, who was also running his own business, overnight. We made it through with the support of our community, our family, friends and work.

How does your family adjust during the times when you’re away?

My husband does an amazing job juggling everything 26

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Can you describe what it’s like serving as an Army dentist?

back home. The girls definitely miss their momma a lot, but he makes sure that they have everything they need and constantly lets them know that we love them and they are taken care of. Our extended family also has helped us tremendously. But beyond family, we have the greatest network of friends and co-workers who were constantly checking up on my husband and the girls, helping out with meals and playdates, while keeping them company and sending me pictures of the family.

What advice do you have for other parents in Central Oregon considering military service?

Military service can provide incredible job training, teach discipline, be adventurous, give structure and comrades to a lot of people. However, if you do have a family and are considering the military, I would tell parents to surround themselves with a supportive community network within the military structure as well as outside.

Anything else you would like us to know?

If you know someone who is getting deployed or who is deployed, help support their families. There is nothing more reassuring for me than to know that my family is being taken care of. It allows me to do my job the best that I can.

Tran and Mark Miller with daughters, Stella (5) and Lily (7) Fall 2017

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Marine Corps Can you briefly describe your past and present military service?

I enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve immediately after high school. After earning the rank of Sergeant and deploying to South America in 2004 and then Iraq in 2005, I applied to become an officer in the Marine Corps. I was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant on active duty in 2006 and remained on active duty until 2012.

I have since returned to the Reserve Force where I serve as the Reserve Support Officer for Recruiting Station Portland.

What effect does the service have on your family life here in Bend?

My wife and I were active duty during the early years of our marriage. She had our first child while I was deployed and she was active duty. We were actually married for 18 months before we moved in together. These aspects of military and family life have been difficult for us but has made our marriage and family stronger.

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Justin Lappe

How do you handle being away from your family during this time?

We always remember that we’re working towards a greater goal than ourselves. When you’re deployed with 36 young Americans— they have been entrusted to you—you owe them your full attention. Your family comes second. Once you hit a point where your family becomes the priority, it’s important that you transition out of the military so you can give them your full attention.

What adjustments do you need to make?

While I am called away for about six weeks a year, now it is all stateside. However, it still can be difficult on my wife and five children. We try and do something special before and after I get back. It’s important for me to know that they know they are still my priority, but I do have other obligations.

What advice would you give to other members of the military going through similar situations with their families?

Your spouse needs to know the strains that occur to the marriage as you execute your military obligations. You need to anticipate that and get ahead of them! You need to respect that it is difficult for one of you to be away from the family and respect that it is difficult for the other to be with the children.

Justin and Scout Lappe pictured with children (from left to right) Peter (8), Gianna (3), John Robert (5), BenedictFall (2),2017 Lucy (7) | 29

Can you tell us a bit about your service in the Oregon National Guard? How often are you away from Bend?

I’ve had the honor of serving in the National Guard for a little over seven years. A lot of soldiers like me have traveled all over the world for training including places like Thailand and Oman. I deployed once to Afghanistan from 2014 to 2015. The National Guard has a dual mission—state and federal. I have been activated to help with the flooding in Burns, Oregon. I am usually gone for training one weekend per month and three weeks in the summer.

How does being away from home affect both you and your family?

The deployment was definitely hard on both my wife and me. In my opinion, she had the much harder job while I was deployed. Not only was she my rock and support, but she kept the house in order and safe, while raising two kids by herself. Then there is the stress that it puts on the parent at home knowing a wife or husband is deployed in a combat

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Jesse Blythe National Guard

zone. There were moments overseas when we would have emptied our savings account to fly across the world to hold each other and the kids for just 10 minutes. As a family, you learn how to survive. Love and patience is key.

What steps does your family take to adjust?

My family takes many steps. My son has a soldier doll with an actual picture of me in uniform on it. He usually sleeps with it while I’m gone. Also, there are books online that give you an opportunity to pre-record a story for your kids. These are very helpful. A funny side note: I am a very picky eater especially at dinner. My wife always says it’s a good break for her while I’m gone and she doesn’t have to cook so fancy.

What advice might you have for other families confronting these same issues?

Make sure to spend quality family time together leading up to a deployment or weekend training. Put away the cellphones and just concentrate on your kids, wives and husbands. Nothing else in the world matters at that moment in time. Whether it’s an extra story at bedtime, or bringing flowers to your wife at work, always make your loved ones feel special.

Jesse and Cassie Blythe with son, Brady (5). Not pictured - daughter, Brooke Blythe (18) 30

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Both you and your husband served in the military.

Can you briefly describe your roles?

My husband and I served in the United States Army with a Military Occupation Specialty (MOS) of Psychological Operations (PSYOP). We met prior to deploying to the Al Anbar Province of Iraq in 2008. During our time in country we were deployed to support a variety of groups (Marines, Special Operations, Army, Aviation, etc.). Being away for the yearplus that it takes to deploy and then redeploy was hard on all family members and exceptionally hard on my husband (who was injured and medically evacuated out of country).

How do you coordinate all of this while tending to family at the same time?

Tending to family was difficult throughout our whole military experience. After leaving Iraq we were caught in a custody/ parenting time struggle that seemed endless and impossible when fought from a distance—we had two older children who were located in Illinois. A lot of communications went down over phone, text, mail and eventually FaceTime. I learned a lot about the strength of love during these times of distance.

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Robyn Loxley Army

How does your service affect other family members?

I feel that our children are proud of our service. They have written papers, done school projects on the subject, and our eldest is currently considering an enlistment of her own through University of Oregon ROTC program. Not long after my first deployment to Kosovo in 2003, my younger brother enlisted and has since reached great heights within the Army’s Special Forces community.

What sacrifices must you make in order to accomplish this?

If this question is about tending to family, then the response is simple—whatever it takes. We are lucky to have both served our time honorably and have been able to go on to other life adventures.

What are the rewards?

The greatest reward is knowing that we are home safe and that our family and friends are safe as well—thanks to our sacrifice and that of others still out there doing it in our stead.

Is there anything else you would like us to know?

We feel very blessed to live in Prineville—which is chock full of resources and supports for veterans. We would also like to encourage community members to either volunteer with or donate to local veterans’ organizations.

Scott and Robyn Loxley with children (left to right) Cameron (14), Airyk (3), Alex (11). Not Pictured Morgan (20), Mia (19), Willem (17) and Reinhardt (10) Fall 2017

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CALENDAR Childrenn ’s Forest

Wednesdays

Mama Circle

SUPPORT — It can

be tough being a

mom. It’s easier

with community

and shared experiences. This event focuses on free, non-judgmental support. Share your concerns, questions, joys, challenges, experiences and practical tips. Open to pregnant women and moms with babies up to one year old.

y | Photo b rell

Sean Fer

Third Tuesday of Every Month Mondays

Children’s Yoga YOGA —This

class caters to kids aged 4-8 and is a fun, lighthearted introduction to yoga, movement and music.

Bend Community Healing | $10

Bendcommunityhealing.com

Mondays

Kids ROCK!

— Choir Sing Bend introduces Kids ROCK! Choir to Central Oregon. Kids 12 and under are welcome to come sing, with the only goal being to have fun. No training, experience or long-term commitment required to join.

Just a good attitude!

SINGING

Broken Top Bottle Shop | $10 singbend.com

Mondays and Thursdays

Capoeira Martial Arts

— Experience this form of martial arts with Afro-Brazilian origins. With a focus on kicks, knee strikes, punches and evading attacks all while maintaining a fluid and acrobatic form, this experience is suitable for adults and teens and includes a two-week introduction.

MARTIAL ARTS

Sortor Karate | $30

sortorkarate.com

Redmond Mothers of Preschoolers

SUPPORT — This event is geared towards making new friends, getting encouragement and connecting through shared experiences and the knowledge that no one’s alone in the journey of motherhood. The meetings consist of short inspirational videos, fun crafts/activities, exciting speakers and time for connection.

Community Presbyterian Church | Free

Juniper Park Playground | Free roofedandopen@gmail.com

Wednesdays

a step up from the kids class, but still maintains an engaging, fun environment.

Namaspa Yoga Studio | $5-$6 namaspa.com

Every Thursday

Moms Running Group

— This group welcomes all moms with or without strollers. The runs are 3 to 4.5 miles long at 8 to 12 minute mile paces. This is a fun and encouraging group for moms of all running levels. Runs occur regardless of weather.

RUN

FootZone | Free

Big Kids Yoga

footzonebend.com

— This class caters to “big kids,” ages 7-10. With a focus on the fundamentals of yoga through technical yoga games and a deeper exploration of postures and flow sequences. This class is

YOGA

www.mops.org

First Friday of Every Month

First Friday Art Walk ART — A fun,

year round event, First Friday Art Walks are family friendly and include art, music and drinks at various downtown businesses. This event serves as a celebration of downtown

Wednesdays through Oct. 11

Bend Farmers Market

FOOD — The market occurs once a week downtown in the Brooks Street Alley behind the Tower Theater.

The market features farmers from around Oregon, local food vendors and a wide variety of food and goods.

Kid and family-friendly, bring the whole crew down for fresh baked cookies, beautiful flowers and tonight’s dinner.

Downtown Bend | Free

bendfarmersmarket.com

I Like Pie

Run/Walk

- Thanks

giving / Photo co u

rtesy of F

ootzone

Fall 2017

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CALENDAR Bend and is a unique part of the Bend community. Most downtown shops extend their hours for the art walk, creating a lively experience for family and friends.

Downtown Bend | Free downtownbend.org

Last Saturday of Every Month

Last Saturday ART — Admire

the work of local artisans, listen to live music, taste bites from local food carts enjoy complimentary beverages. Bring the entire family down to get a taste for local art and culture in Bend.

Discounted admission for residents!

SUNRIVER SHARC | $9 sunriversharc.com

Ongoing

Bend Science Station Classes

— The Bend Science Station offers a variety of classes for elementary, middle and SCIENCE

high school students. Students are invited to explore various aspects of science and the world we live in. Designed to stimulate curiosity and learning, these classes also serve as an exploration into all things science.

Bend Science Station | Prices Vary bendsciencestation.org

Sept. 15-16

Bend Oktoberfest

FESTIVAL — The Bend Oktoberfest is an annual, family-friendly event that features beer, fun games, wiener dog races, traditional music, dancing and local food vendors. This event is put on by the Bend Downtown Business Association and

Sundays through Dec. 31

SHARC Central oregon Sundays

Big Kids Yoga at Namaspa / Photo courtesy of Namaspa

Dentistry with a Gentle Touch

Comprehensive Family Care - Cerec Same Day Crowns - 3D Imaging - Laser Treatments

millpointdentalcenter.com |

BendNest.com

THRILLS — This event features 30 of the world’s best extreme athletes in freestyle motocross, BMX and anything you can imagine with wheels. Be ready to see a host of ridiculous contraptions being launched 50 feet into the air by the crazy Nitro daredevils.

nitrocircus.com/tourinfo

theworkhousebend.com

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Nitro Circus Live

Vince Genna Stadium | $39+

The Workhouse | Free

ACTIVE — Central Oregon Sundays at SHARC Aquatic Center

Sept. 15

Become Part of Our Dental Family

Marika Stone, DDS, PC Jared Adams, DDS Accepting Most Insurances Multiple Financing Options

$99

New patient exam and x-Rays

Back to School Promotion Expires 10/31/17

Open Monday - Saturday

Now Scheduling Saturdays Appointments

775 SW Bonnet Way, Ste 100 Bend

541.388.0078

Curious young scienctists at Bend Science Station Photo courtesy of Bend Science Station

is their biggest fundraiser of the year.

Downtown Bend | Free

bendoktoberfest.com

Sept. 16

Walk to End Alzheimer’s

BENEFIT — Help in the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in a two-mile walk.

This annual event is held in more than 600 communities across the U.S. to help raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. People of all ages and abilities are invited to join.

Riverbend Park | Price Varies Act.alz.org

Sept. 16

Soar! Adaptive Activity Day

ADAPTIVE SPORTS — This event caters to individuals with chronic medical conditions and disabilities. Enjoy a catered lunch and activities such as adapted kayaking, rock climbing, yoga, pilates, massage, volleyball, pickleball, cycling, Tai Chi and receive a free Hydroflask water bottle. Open to ages 16+.

Destination Rehab | $25 destinationrehab.org

Sept. 17

Bend Open Streets COMMUNITY —

This annual event invites community members to bring bikes, roller skates, skateboards or any other non-motorized mode of transportation to Bend’s Central District where 2.5 miles of streets will be closed off to automobile traffic. Last year, this event drew over 2,500 community members. Dog and family friendly.

Bend’s Central District | Free Bendopenstreets.org

Sept. 17

Puberty Classes for Pre-Teens

CLASSES —Recommended for 10-12 year olds, this class is structured to facilitate open and healthy discussions between pre-teens and parents about puberty. Separate classes for boys and for girls.

The Riverhouse | $65 per student with adult; $45 for each sibling with same adult copakids.com

Sept. 22

Family Fun Night

— Enjoy a fun night out with the family at Bouncing Off The Wall. This event includes three hours of free time, family-oriented games, a large Little Caesar’s pizza, a 2-liter bottle of soda and, of course, fun bouncing for both kids and adults.

FAMILY

Bouncing Off The Wall | $25 for family of four, $6 for each additional person

bouncingoffthewallbend.com

Sept. 22

2017 Northwest Pro Rodeo Finals

— Watch the Northwest Pro Rodeo Finals as some of the best in the Northwest compete.

RODEO

Crook County Fairgrounds | Price Varies nprarodeo.org

Sept. 23

Discover Nature Festival NATURE —

Held by Children’s Forest of Central Oregon, a group focused on getting children involved and engaged with the outdoors, this festival includes over 35 free nature education, outdoor recreation and health and wellness activities meant to get kids excited about the outdoors.

Riverbend Park | Free

Childrensforestco.org

Sept. 23

NAMI 5k Run/Walk

BENEFIT — This is the fifth annual 5k run/walk put on as a benefit for the Central Oregon branch of the National Alliance of Mental Illness. All proceeds from this event benefit NAMI. Open to all ages and abilities.

Drake Park | $20+

namicentraloregon.org

Sept. 29 - Oct. 1

Bend Roots Revival MUSIC —

Join in the fun at this free community music festival, featuring 120 acts and educational workshops.

Revenue helps support arts education in Bend.

Family-friendly.

Deschutes Brewery Lawn, Shevlin Hixon Dr. | Free

facebook.com/bendroots

Sept. 24

Buddy Walk

— This event aims to raise funds and awareness for the Down-Syndrome Connection of Central Oregon. You can walk individually or as part of a team. All ages and abilities are invited to join.

FUNDRAISER

Riverbend Park | $15 for ages 3-17, $21 for ages 18+, free for individuals with Down-syndrome ds-stride.org

Sept. 24

Gold Star Mother’s Day

— This ceremony honors and recognizes mothers and families who have lost sons and daughters serving in The United States Armed Forces. American and Military service flags will be

HONOR

flown, some of which will display gold stars and the names of fallen veterans.

Brooks Park | Free

Sept. 24

NamaSTAY: Yoga With Your Dog

— Stay fit and healthy while enjoying time with your pup during NamaSTAY at the Athletic Club. This guided practice, led by certified instructor Bridget Evans from Groove Yoga, is perfect for all levels and ages. Stay after class for a silent auction as well as activities for dogs and kids. All proceeds go towards helping Street Dog Hero rescue and rehome dogs.

YOGA

Athletic Club of Bend | $5+

athleticclubofbend.com

Oct. 5-7

BEAT Presents: Tom Sawyer

— B.E.A.T. Children’s Theater brings to life one of literature’s most beloved characters. Watch as actors ages 11-19 perform this classic tale of Americana.

THEATER

The Old Stone Church | Price TBA beatchildrenstheatre.org

Oct. 6

Oxford XC Classic

— The Oxford Classic is the biggest high school cross country race in the state. Expect intense and fast races from some of the Northwest’s best high school cross country athletes.

RACE

Drake Park | Free

oxfordsuites.com Fall 2017

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CALENDAR Oct. 6-8

Bend Fall Fest FESTIVAL —

Enjoy a variety of fall-themed activities, food, local vendors, art, live music and celebration during this community tradition. Gather your family and friends for a full day of fun for all ages.

Downtown Bend | Free

bendfallfestival.com

Oct. 7

Puddlestompers: Signs of Fall

— Look for signs of autumn with your little one during this event put on by Children’s Forest of Central Oregon and The High Desert Museum. Explore nature through imagination, songs, stories and more.

NATURE

Rockridge Park | Free

childrensforestco.org

Oct. 6

Annabelle’s Angel Glow 5k Run/2k Walk BENEFIT —

Wear your brightest neon, flashing lights or glowing necklaces for this run/ walk beginning at sunset. Both courses wind through the Old Mill District, and proceeds from the event benefit Annabelle Wilson and other Sparrow kids in need.

Old Mill District | Price Varies footzonebend.com

Oct. 7-8

enthusiasts.

Crows Feet Commons | Free, donation suggested

Various Venues in Central Oregon | $10+

basecampstudio.org

bendfilm.org

Oct. 8

Oct. 14

Great Pumpkin Race

RUN — 1-mile Fun Run and 5k race benefiting Elk Meadow Elementary, Prizes for top three finishers.

Brookswood Meadow Plaza | $15-20 greatraceofbend.com

4th Annual Painting Marathon

Oct. 12-15

Friday. Experience collaborative art making, team artwork and five teams of local artists.

Kids paint free. The finished paintings will be on display Saturday night during which you can take one home or to your office with a donation to Base Camp Studio.

FILM — The annual Bend Film Festival is a celebration of independent filmmakers. Discover new acting talent, directors and maybe even chat with a filmmaker or two. The festival takes place at several different venues around Bend and is a great way to meet other film

ART — This event begins on First

Ribbit, Ribbit Royalty ART —

Enjoy a day of painting frogs with your child. This guided class provides canvases, easels, aprons and all other supplies. No experience is necessary - the only goal is to spend quality time with your “tadpole.”

Wabi Sabi | $25/person

14th Annual BendFilm Festival

Wabisabibend.us

Oct. 14

Sisters Harvest Faire FESTIVAL —

This event features live entertainment and quality handmade products from local vendors and artisans. Free for the whole family.

Downtown Sisters | Free sisterscountry.com

New Exhibit — Opens October 14

Dinosaurs Take Flight

The Art of Archaeopteryx

Dr. Blair Struble Dr. Erica Crosta

541.848.6642 929 SW Simpson Ave. Suite 201 www.strubleortho.com

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59800 South Highway 97, Bend Made possible by

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541-382-4754

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www.highdesertmuseum.org

Fall Festival Fun! October 6-8, Downtown Bend

Oct. 14

High Desert Museum Harvest Festival FESTIVAL —

Dig and clean potatoes, press apples into cider, pickle eggs to prep for winter.

High Desert Museum | Price of Admission highdesertmuseum.org

Oct. 14- April 8

Dinosaurs Take Flight: The Art of Archaeopteryx

Enter the wonderful world of Archaeopteryx, a famous fossil that has informed our current understanding of birds and flight. Six renowned artists from around the world bring this iconic “missing link” back to life in this beautiful, interactive exhibition.

High Desert Museum | Price of Admission highdesertmuseum.org

Oct. 22

The Olate Dogs DOGS —

Champions of the seventh season of “America’s Got Talent,” The Olate Dogs have made nationwide appearances at NBA games and other star-studded events.

These dogs make their way to Bend where they showcase music, tricks, skits, videos and serve as champions for rescue dogs everywhere. This event is family friendly and entertaining for dog lovers of all ages.

The Tower Theatre | $28+ towertheatre.org

Oct. 24

Underwater Bubble Show

MAGIC — This balanced blend of drama, mime, dance, pup petry, juggling, contortionism, sand art, magic and the beauty of soap bubbles is inspired by the performances of “Cirque du Soleil.” The show incorporates technology and talent to create an entertaining evening for kids and adults.

The Tower Theatre | $22+ towertheatre.org

Oct. 28

Tales of Hallow’s Eve

PARTY — A Halloween party like you’ve never seen! Live animals appear during dramatic readings of cautionary tales. Dare to enter into the haunted Spirit of the West exhibit. Family fun for all ages. Costumes encouraged!

6:00 pm—8:00 pm

Members $3, non-members | $7 highdesertmuseum.org

Oct. 30

Body Vox, Bloody Vox

— Combining talented dancers, theater, vampires, zombies and ghosts to create a spooky evening for the entire family. Creepy, funny and exciting all at once, this show promises to bring all of your Halloween nightmares to life.

HALLOWEEN

The Tower Theatre | $20+ towertheatre.org

Oct. 31

Halloween in the Village

Nov. 2-16

Tween Poetry Camp

— Designed to get budding writers excited about poetry, this program features a month of workshops exploring various forms of poetry and encouraging tweens to be creative. Open to ages 9-12.

POETRY

Downtown Bend Library | Free deschuteslibrary.org

Nov. 4

Happy Girls Race

— This race encourages women of all abilities to enjoy trail running on the half marathon single track trails of the Peterson Trail Ridge system or on the 5k road race through downtown Sisters. Bring the

RACE

whole family, and celebrate post-race at the Five Pine Lodge.FivePine Lodge | $30+

happygirlsrunsisters.com

Nov. 6

Moscow Ballet Great Russian Nutcracker

NUTCRACKER — Well recognized around the United States, this show features world-class Russian artists, beautiful sets and an abundance of Christmas cheer. Celebrate this classic reminder of holiday spirit designed for the whole family.

The Tower Theatre | $31.50+ towertheatre.org

HALLOWEEN — Kids of all ages are welcome to enjoy trick-ortreating at the Sunriver Village with area merchants. Kids can show off their attire during the costume contest, enjoy the cupcake walk and play ghoulish games.

The Village at Sunriver | Free villageatsunriver.com

Nov. 1

Improvised Shakespeare Company

THEATER — This decorated company has been performing sold out shows in Chicago since 2005 and has toured the United States to equal success.

The Improvised Shakespeare Company has been featured at Bumbershoot Music and Arts Festival and various other venues and festivals. They have won a variety of awards in Chicago, New York and L.A.

Inspired

to be Innovative,

Imaginative and Engaged in the World

Parent-Toddler program, Pre-K through 8th grade

The Tower Theatre | $17+ towertheatre.org

Call today for information

(541) 330-8841 bendwaldorf.com | info@bendwaldorf.com

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Coming Fall 2017...

Little Sprout Bend An Indoor Play Space for Children under 6 Little Sprout Bend is owned and operated by a NICU Nurse and mother of a toddler who is passionate about developemental care and parent self-care.

TODDLER PLAY AREA INFANT PLAY SPACE PARENTING CLASSES LACTATION SUPPORT IN-A-PINCH CHILDCARE MEMBERSHIPS BIRTHDAY PARTIES KIDS CLASSES

Little Sprout Bend is dedicated to child-directed play while also meeting the needs of parents.

It takes a village and we want to be part of your village.

Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning.

But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood. - Fred Rogers

www.littlesproutbend.com 38

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FERGUS AND ZEKE

by Sally Derby, Illustrated by Mika Song

STORIES IN SIX VOICES

What is your favorite experience starting a new school year? Gathering your school supplies? Making new friends? In “A New School Year: Stories in Six Voices,” spend time with students Ethan, Zack, Katie, Jackie, Carlos and Mia. Written in poetry format, this book follows their emotions, from kindergarten to fifth grade as they experience feeling happy, nervous, worried and hopeful about school. The classroom poems depict friendships, bravery, and working together to help answer a variety of back-to-school questions. Derby’s poetry is fun! She captures four phases of elementary school life including, The Night Before, In the Morning, At School and After School perfectly. Song’s watercolor illustrations are filled with classroom expressions - wonder, surprise and excitement.

by Kate Messner, Illustrated by Heather Ross Are you ready to go back to school? Miss Maxwell’s class is in full swing learning team work, listening at story time, solving math problems and creating new projects.

Fergus, Miss Maxwell’s class pet, loves school and loves his favored status. But when Fergus finds out his whole class is going on a field trip to the Museum of Natural History and he has to stay in the classroom, he tries any means to get to go!

But how? He hides in Emma’s backpack and the adventure begins! Butterflies!

Dinosaurs! Stars! In four short chapters, Fergus and his new friend Zeke explore the Museum of Natural History. Messner’s heart-filled story is filled with friendships, collaboration and adventure. The easy reader format is engaging and filled with bright and colorful illustrations. Fergus and Zeke will be your new best friends at school and on field trips!

BOOKSHELF

A NEW SCHOOL YEAR:

Recommended by Paige Bentley-Flannery, Community Librarian at Deschutes Public Library. Explore the DPL Back to School 2017 book list at Deschutes Public Library or ask your local librarian for more fun and favorite back to school books.

Back to school savings are in style at Stone Soup

Start you day off right.

Come visit us at Fearless Baking!

Kids clothing up to size 14 We pay cash or store credit for your gently used kids items

Visit our website for details

www.stonesoupkids.com 541.323.7117

Mon-Sat 7am - 2pm / Sun 8am - 2pm

1740 NW Pence Lane #4 (off Newport Avenue and College Way) stonesoupkids@gmail.com

Follow us on Instagram @fearlessbaking and facebook 1900 NE Division St Suite 102 Bend, OR 97701 541.508.7469

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Doctors Brandi Kuhn and Alyssa Salava Providing chiropractic care and cranial sacral therapy for the whole family. Specializing in pregnancy and pediatric care for newborns, infants and children of all ages.

Now offering Saturday appointments!

TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU:

Bend 1551 NE 4th St. 541.389.9373

La Pine 51538 Hwy 97 541.640.2155 highdesertchiro.com

PRIVATE TOURS AVAILABLE

REGISTER NOW

for FALL 2017/18

Does your child love animals, yoga, nature, gardening, music and art?

Our Zoo Phonics Curriculum combined with our Green Themed Around the World Yoga Program inspires children to feel love and compassion for animals, people and the earth. Its’ Truly a One-of-a kind program you must see! Space is limited! Register now!

Central Oregon’s Highest Quality Nautre Based Preschool Yoga Program for children 3-6 yrs of age. Eco Kidz is a nature inspired innovative place where children blossom in a fun, safe, nurturing eco-environment that has been created just for them to imagine, wonder and explore their world around them.

Laugh, play make new friends at Eco Kidz Today! mamabearoden@gmail.com mamabearodenspreschool.com / 541.390.0396

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FOUR SIMPLE WAYS TO MELT THE STRESS AWAY

BY ANNETTE BENEDETTI

Y

our boss just scheduled a must-attend meeting, your five-year-old threw up on your work shoes, and your sitter called in sick. It’s not quite 9 a.m. and your nerves are shot. You need a day off, or better yet a week long vacation filled with cocktails and back massages—but that kind of stress relief just isn’t in the budget.

The good news is you don’t have to travel or sing “Om” in a 100-degree yoga studio to find peace of mind.

There are plenty of affordable and simple anxiety-relieving activities that can help you achieve meditative bliss from the comfort of your home or work cubicle.

Grab your markers and teapot and try one of these activities that is sure to melt the stress away.

COLOR YOUR WORRIES AWAY

Katie Brandow, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of the School of Enrichment, says meditative activities decrease cortisol, a stress-causing hormone.

“Cortisol not only stresses us out, it also causes health problems related to a high-stress life,” says Brandow.

That’s why anxious adults will find solace in the widely popular adult coloring book, Stress Relieving Patterns by Blue Star.

Stress Relieving Patterns has over 30 designs for the artist as well as the artistically challenged. The book features pattern coloring pages and mandalas that take hours of concentrated time to complete, which is good, because studies show that coloring can lower cortisol levels in just 45 minutes.

You can achieve the stress-relieving effects of coloring with any pattern. In fact, Blue Star offers an array of coloring books with pattern themes like animals, flowers, fashion, and nature to name a few. Whatever your interest, there is a book to fit. So the next time you feel like you are on the brink of breaking down, grab your favorite coloring tool and take a time out.

Peruse Blue Star’s books at bluestarcoloring.com.

APP OUT!

If you have a smart phone, you have instant access to a meditative state. People all over the world are plugging in

ADULT TIME

Mellow Without the Margarita

and letting go with apps like Head Space, Calm, and Relax Lite. This form of stress relief is affordable, portable, and can be done almost anywhere.

Head Space is arguably the most popular meditation app today. It offers users a 10-day beginner course that teaches meditation and mindfulness basics. Similarly, Calm provides users with a seven-day program with 10-minute guided meditations. You can also choose guided options designed to help you achieve a specific goal like overcoming insomnia. Relax Lite offers meditations and the option to practice breathing exercises that reduce stress in just five minutes.

Though all of the apps are slightly different, they help users reduce stress the same way: by staying in the moment. “The mind tends to go into the past and into the future where things are stressful,” explains Brandow.

“Anything that tells our body that we are here and this is now, reduces anxiety.”

All of the apps can be found in the Google play store.

Free versions are available, and you can upgrade for additional meditations and special features.

CREATE A GRATITUDE JOURNAL

Much like coloring, writing can relieve stress. Brandow says making a gratitude list or keeping a gratitude journal can make a difference. “Try writing down something you are grateful for every day,” suggests Brandow. “It doesn’t have to be something big, it can be as simple as, ‘My sheets are soft”.

This writing exercise keeps your focus on the positive and reminds you of the good things in your life during the most difficult moments. A gratitude list can be carried with you throughout the day or done at specific times.

“Some people start by listing five things they are grateful for every night before they lay down and begin their day with five things every morning,” says Brandow.

SCHEDULE TEA TIME

That morning cup of coffee may have your shoulders working their way up to your ears, so maybe it’s time to cut back on the coffee time and schedule an afternoon tea. Studies show that drinking black tea reduces cortisol, that pesky hormone that has your nerves slowly fraying.

Parents are notorious for putting their needs last, so make sure to add honey, sugar, cream—whatever makes the tea perfect for you. Find a quiet place at home or work, wrap up in your favorite cozy blanket or light a calming scented candle and sip away.

Parenting can be challenging, sometimes it even pushes you to your limits. Remember, peace of mind doesn’t require going broke or committing all of your free time to contorting yourself into impossible shapes. That much-needed mental break is only a crayon or way.

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HEALTH

Making an Impact Dealing with concussions head-on

By Annette Benedetti

I

f you’ve lived in Central Oregon long enough, you are likely familiar with the Jenna Sneva Story. At age seven she was a rising local star who skied in the Mt. Bachelor Ski Education Foundation program and participated in youth competitions at the national level. At the age of 19 she won the gold medal at the USA Snowboard Association in Skier Cross and became a local success story.

Left out of the story is the number of concussions Sneva experienced along the way. While seemingly insignificant at the time they occurred, in 2010—after experiencing the hardest fall of her career—all of her smaller injuries came back to haunt her.

Sneva had just entered college and found herself plagued with unrelenting headaches. As time went on, her grades dropped, anxiety set in and she had trouble retaining information and speaking clearly. She had post-concussion syndrome (PCS), a condition that limits physical, cognitive and emotional abilities. After her diagnosis, it took years of therapy and brain remapping activities to regain some of the abilities she’d lost, includ-

ing her independence. As it turns out, Sneva’s story is a cautionary tale.

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of brain injury that results when a blow or jolt to the head causes the brain to bounce or twist inside of the skull. The trauma creates chemical changes in the brain and in some cases, damages brain cells. If identified and treated immediately, most symptoms disappear within a few weeks to a couple of months. If a concussion goes untreated and is followed by a second impact, PCS and second impact syndrome may occur and can result in lifelong and potentially fatal consequences.

Addressing the Risk

Sports offer young athletes a great way to build skills, make friends and stay healthy. In an effort to protect young athletes living in Central Oregon, The Center Foundation has implemented a comprehensive physician-directed Sports Medicine Program in area high schools. It guarantees that every school has an onsite athletic trainer well-versed in concussion management protocols. It also ensures that an athletic trainer attends junior varsity events and that a physician is in attendance at home sporting events.

While having onsite professionals increases the likelihood of identifying sports-related concussions during a game, parents play a key role in their child’s diagnosis. Viviane Ugade, Medical Director of the Concussion Management Program for the Center Foundation says, “It’s important to educate parents because they know their child the best and can recognize if their child is acting abnormally.” Recognizing signs of a concussion can be tricky because some are subtle and others may take time to present themselves.

Identifying a Concussion

If your child has experienced head trauma, look for the following symptoms: Acting dazed and confused Forgetfulness Slow response to questions Loss of consciousness Headache Nausea or vomiting Blurry vision Light or noise sensitivity Feeling tired or depressed 42

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According to Ugade, some children may experience more severe symptoms than others. “If a child falls and hits their head and then gets back up and acts normal, there is no reason to call a doctor,” she explains. “But, if they look a little bit funny, don’t seem like they are acting normally or they are complaining about any of the common symptoms, then they should definitely go in and get assessed.”

A child who has taken a blow to the head and shown signs of concussion should be immediately pulled from any activity and should not return until a physician has seen them and gives them the go ahead. Rest is the most common treatment for a single concussion—patients resume their normal activities in small doses until they are back to their regular activity level.

When a Concussion Turns into an Emergency

In some cases a concussion can lead to a collection of blood (hematoma) on the brain. If your child exhibits any of the following symptoms call 9-1-1 or take them to the hospital immediately:

Slurred speech Seizures Inability to wake up One pupil larger than the other Unusual behavior Loss of consciousness A headache that gets worse and doesn’t go away Repeated vomiting or nausea that doesn’t go away

A Cautionary Tale Turned Triumphant

While Sneva’s story serves as a warning for parents and coaches alike, she turned her loss into a win for Oregon’s children.

Jenna’s Law passed in 2013, as an extension of Max’s Law, which applies to high school athletes, requiring coaches to be trained to recognize concussions and keep at-risk students off the field without medical permission. Her law states that these same protections extend to club sports coaches as well as volunteer coaches.

While a concussion may not seem like a big threat to a child or adolescent’s well being, it can be devastating when it becomes a worst-case scenario. According to Ugade, worstcase scenario occurs when a student athlete fails to report their symptoms and has repetitive injuries close together. She explains, “That’s when they are at risk for developing second impact syndrome, where catastrophic swelling in the brain can occur and they either die or endure a severe brain injury with poor recovery.”

Ugade says Sneva is a good example of how multiple concussions can have a severe impact. She is an even better example of why it’s important to educate parents, coaches and athletic trainers in concussion identification and management before school rolls around and young athletes hit the fields ready to play hard and win big.

Educate yourself further by visiting these sites: The Center Foundation: centerfoundation.org CDC Heads Up: cdc.gov/headsup

THRIVE {ology} GROWTH MINDSET APPROACH MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNTS/BENEFITS NO-SCHOOL DAY CAMPS AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAMS TEEN LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE SUMMER CAMPS COMMUNITY/FAMILY EVENTS AFTERSCHOOL & NO-SCHOOL DAY

REGISTRATION OPEN

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Prices for Afterschool starts at $45 SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

Helping Kids Thrive, One Spark at a Time.

Coed, inclusive and dedicated to supporting Central Oregon families, Camp Fire strives to help youth Pre K – 12th grade become the best version of themselves through affordable, engaging programs that promote self-worth, environmental awareness, and social, life and leadership skills.

www.campfireco.org | 541.382.4682 | info@campfireco.org

Fall 2017

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OUTDOORS

Heavenly Harvest Experiencing Central Oregon’s Amazing Autumn

By Kim Cooper Findling

F

all is such a great time in Central Oregon. The days remain long and sunny but the pace is calmer and less frenzied than summer. Kids are back in school but still itching for fun come the weekend. It’s a lovely transition time to explore the outdoors. Autumn weekends are made for leisurely family outings spent contemplating the changing season while experiencing the time of harvest. Here are a handful of ways to enjoy the beautiful outdoors during these mild days.

Photo by Peter Marbach

Pumpkin Patches

October just isn’t complete without a trip to the pumpkin patch. Central Oregon has several options for places to have some fun while picking that perfect pumpkin. Several of the best patches are in Terrebonne, where pumpkin picking happens under high blue skies with incredible views of Smith Rock State Park.

At the Smith Rock Ranch, the highlight is a massive corn maze. Get just lost enough to have a great time inside the endless sea of tall stalks (don’t forget to grab a map!).

The Ranch also offers a pumpkin cannon, wagon rides, a zoo train and pony rides. There is food for sale, and of course, hundreds of pumpkins to choose from. Let each |

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DD Ranch, also in Terrebonne, hosts its own pumpkin patch fun. The festivities on this working ranch are complete with hay rides, a play area with a rope swing and slide, and a petting zoo. Take home some grass-fed beef from this ranch, too. ddranch.net

Fall Fest

Bend Fall Festival is so many things: music, food and wine, activities, community and more. A great place within the Fest for families is the Family Harvest Area, which is overflowing with Halloween and harvest-inspired activities.

Family-focused businesses will be hosting a wide variety of exciting activities for kids.

The Harvest Market is another terrific place to visit. The market is teeming with produce and products grown and handcrafted in our region, including sweet corn, apples, pears, heirloom tomatoes, flower bouquets, gourmet salts, wine, ciders, knobby gourds and—of course—plenty of pumpkins. Local farmers will be sharing their goods on site—meet some of the folks who grow food in the arid high desert region and take home some of their homegrown products. bendfallfestival.com

Farmers Market

Every Wednesday through mid-October, downtown Bend fills with a myriad of delights for the senses.

From 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., booths line Brooks Street for the Bend Farmer’s Market. Here you’ll find everything from blueberries to kombucha, goat cheese to gelato, honey to grass-fed beef. Stroll around with the kids, take in the sights and choose some delicious foods to consume on site or take home to enjoy later.

Day Trip

Crescent Moon Ranch, located in Terrebonne, is Photo by Peter Marbach

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family member choose their own orange globe to carry home. smithrockranch.com

Photo by Kim Cooper Findling

a working alpaca ranch and a great destination for families who want a chance to see these amazing animals up close.

Alpacas are grown for their fleece and for breeding on this high desert ranch. Guests are invited to view and even pet the alpacas, known for being wise and gentle creatures. The Alpaca Boutique, on-site, sells many goods made from alpaca fleece, from yarn to stuffed animals to slippers. Crescent Moon makes for a fun quick stop on your way to or from the Terrebonne pumpkin patches. crescentmoonranch.com

Road Trip

Some of Oregon’s most abundant orchards are on the Hood River Fruit Loop, located about 2.5 hours north of Bend. This region, adjacent to the Columbia River Gorge Photo by Rachel Leason and the city of Hood River, is known for apples and pears as well as berries, lavender, wine and more. The Fruit Loop is a 35-mile loop featuring dozens of farms and

orchards. Many destinations on the circuit offer incredible views of Mt. Hood or the Columbia River—all offer amazing local products to enjoy. The Fruit Loop is a great day trip from Bend through one of the most scenic places in the state, and you won’t come home without plenty of delicious treats. hoodriverfruitloop.com

Date Night

Harvest season isn’t just about the kids. Get a sitter and make a date night out of Rainshadow Organics farm-to-table dinners. Called the Longtable Dinners, this working farm creates a three-course meal four times each summer and fall and serves guests on the farm grounds at—you guessed it—a long table. The meal is created from beautiful organic produce, grains, and meats, all from the farm. This year, fall dates for the Longtable Dinners are September 18 and October 7. Reserve your spot soon. rainshadoworganics.com Fall 2017

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THING’S I’VE LEARNED

Meet Bill Warburton Bend Endurance Academy Cycling Director

Lured here by the mountains, Bill, who is originally from upstate New York, moved to Bend in 2002. After years of racing on bikes and skis, Bill started working with various youth programs part-time, eventually working into a fulltime position as Cycling Director, when he started the Bend Endurance Academy. Although Bill and his wife, Brenna, and their two kids, ages 2 and 4, are looking forward to traveling throughout the Northwest as a family, Bill purposefully sets aside time to slow down, have no plans and just spend time together.

What is the single best thing you have learned from working with children?

Children always remind me that we adults don’t need to set grand plans or create elaborate schemes to fill our time. Focusing on where we are and what we can do in the moment often leads to our most fulfilling adventures.

What did you learn from your parents about parenting?

They taught me about fairness, how to express my thoughts clearly in conversation or through writing, and they were always modeling how to be aware of the people and natural world around me. I think those skills really helped me in school and are guiding my role as a parent now.

What do you hope your children are learning from you?

I hope I am teaching them to integrate patience and respect into their every action, and I hope they develop the fortitude needed to define their relationships and pathways.

What Superhero power do you wish you had as a parent?

Rip Van Winkle wasn’t really a superhero but he had a heck of a nap; I’m looking forward to catching up on my sleep someday.

How are kids today different than when you were a kid?

They seem to have more on their schedule, which is both a chance for them to grow, but also limits their free time. Kids are accomplishing more at an earlier age. That’s great because kids are super capable and can rise to the occasion if we let them, but it also puts a lot of pressure on those who lag or feel like they’re not able to keep the pace.

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Do you have a role model?

I’ve had three role models and mentors who profoundly shaped who I am. One helped me through art and music to shape my total perception of reality; another taught me all about existing in the natural world; and my father exemplified leadership and compassion in his work as a police officer and at home with the family.

How do you keep from being overwhelmed?

I go ride my bike or ski for a few hours, feel the movement, forget the stress. A tired body clears the mind.

What do you think the next generation has in store for us?

That’s a crazy question!

They will inherit whatever mess we give them and they will assume control at some point, so let’s try not to make them too angry!

I really hope our generation can respect both our elders for what they’ve done well and respect our children for what they want society to be when they grow up.

If parents were to “ask not what the outdoors can do for you but what you can do for the outdoors,” what would that be?

I like to remind people that we are animals. We breathe, we eat and we sweat just like the other creatures of this planet.

But unlike other animals, we have science that must guide our future. Teach your children the names of our fellow creatures as you walk in the park, help them feel at home in open outdoor spaces so they have a reason to defend nature. Think about what you get from the outdoors and how you can preserve it so that others may experience the same.

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we

r o f e r a c

s d i k

Pediatric appointments are now available at our new St. Charles Family Care Bend South clinic. In addition to top-notch pediatricians, our clinic also offers: •

The same doctor for all your child’s appointments

•

Prenatal meet-and-greet appointments

•

In-house laboratory, radiology and physical therapy

•

Convenient location between the parkway and 3rd St. on Badger Road

Call 541-706-5935 today to make an appointment for your child.

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61250 SE COOMBS PLACE StCharlesHealthCare.org