'Get Unplugged' with Parks & Rec
Those ages 12 and older can test their climbing skills with Bouldering Basics at the Sandpoint Rock Gym as part of Sandpoint Parks and Recreation's annual "Unplug, Be Outside & Be Active” celebration.
SANDPOINT — Have you been “Unplugged” lately? Many youth and families will have the opportunity to do just that for free at the 5th annual “Unplug, Be Outside & Be Active” event from May 9-11.
This event is coordinated by Sandpoint Parks & Recreation. The purpose of this free series of activities is to encourage people to “unplug” from their electronic devices such as TV’s, computer’s, video games, etc. and to find a healthy outlet where they can enjoy being physically active. One of Parks and Recreation’s central goals is being dedicated to finding, creating and offering a variety of healthful movement activities. This annual “Unplugged” event is an important part of that mission.
The “Unplugged” event will run for three days starting on Tuesday, May 9 during the after school hours of 3-7 p.m. A wide range of options are available in 11 different activities. There are activities for every age group pre-school through adults. The activities are sponsored by Parks & Rec. and generous local groups who graciously volunteer their time, effort, and in some cases, their own facilities to encourage physical activity in our community.
Additionally, youth who turn in their activity passports with two or more activity leaders signature are eligible to enter a drawing with a possibility to win prizes that encourage kids to stay physically active.
Among the groups offering activities are:
- Tuesday, May 9 — At 3 p.m. City Beach will be hopping with Schweitzer Activity Center’s Challenge Course with slack line, jumpy balls, hula hoops and more. Also the first 25 youth will receive a free Jr. Summer Lift Ticket. The Kinnikinnick Native Plant Society will lead an educational tour through their lovely Arboretum at Lakeside Park at 3:30 p.m. Also at Lakeside Park, Boy Scout Troop 111 is doing another good deed for the community with a fantastic Obstacle Course at 4:30 p.m. At 6 p.m. in Community Hall, dance instructor Deanna Benton will be teaching Argentine Tango, an easy yet unique walking dance that anyone can learn.
- Wednesday, May 10 — Those ages 12 and older can test their climbing skills with Bouldering Basics at the Sandpoint Rock Gym from 3–5 p.m. Youth ages 12–14 must have a parent present.
At City Beach the tennis courts will be busy from 4–6 p.m. with age group tennis clinics offered by Parks & Rec. staff. These 30 minute clinics are for ages 4 and older. Call Parks & Rec for appropriate age group times.
Walk 7B, a newer wellness program sponsored by Kiniksu Land Trust & Sandpoint Parks & Rec., is at 5:30 p.m. They meet at the Sand Creek parking lot.
- Thursday, May 11 — Learn to make and launch Stomp Rockets with Suzanne, East Bonner County Youth Librarian, at the Sandpoint Library at 3:30 p.m.
Walk 7B has another walk at 5:30 p.m., just in case you missed Wednesday’s walk. They meet at the Sand Creek parking lot.
At Community Hall, Deanna Benton will be offering an intro class for ages 6 and older in Rhythmic Gymnastics which uses balls, hoops, ropes and ribbons.
For ages 14 and older, Parks & Rec’s Ultimate Frisbee League will have a pick-up game at 6 p.m. at Great Northern Park. Cleats are recommended but not required.
Sandpoint Parks & Rec. would like to express a heartfelt “Thank You” to all the leaders and organization sponsors involved in this year’s and previous years “Unplugged” events. Get ready, get set, and join the fun of getting unplugged.
For more information call Sandpoint Parks and Rec. at 263-3613