With wood, wheels, basic tools and a lot of imagination, Central Oregon teens will fashion XDerby vehicles of their own design at the Downtown Bend Library on October 25. This free event is presented in partnership with the High Desert Maker Mill, a local non-profit organization committed to building maker culture in Central Oregon.

Saturday, October 25, 2014 • 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Downtown Bend Library

“The maker movement offers teens a chance to explore STEM concepts in a fun and encouraging environment,” says April Witteveen, Community Librarian with Deschutes Public Library. High Desert Maker Mill will provide the raw materials—such as wood and wheels—for the XDerby vehicles. Teens will use tools and personal inspiration to shape their vehicles into racing machines. The maker session ends with a chance for participants to race their vehicles against other creations.

This event is part of a growing maker movement. As stated on the High Desert Maker Mill’s website, “The maker movement is the popular resurgence of do-it-yourself culture that encompasses creative activities from advanced manufacturing like 3D scanning and printing to craftsman or artisanal activities like metal and woodworking.”

Witteveen says this and other maker events offer a great opportunity for teens to take part in something new and fun. “These are unique experiences that often require equipment or tools that aren’t always easy to access. Teens who are already interested in technology or making have a chance to share their expertise and enjoy the process while geeking out at the library.”

While this event is free, registration is required. Participants can register online at http://bit.ly/1w9kNAD, or by calling April at 541-617-7079. For more information about the High Desert Maker Mill, please visit www.highdesertmakermill.org. People with disabilities needing accommodations (alternative formats, seating or auxiliary aides) should contact April at 541-617-7079.