Hundreds 'Unplug' and join the fun at annual event
A youngster outside Sandpoint Library sets up his stomp rocket for takeoff during a past Unplug & Be Active event sponsored by Sandpoint Parks & Recreation.
(Photo courtesy SANDPOINT PARKS & RECREATION)
Nearly 300 participants got unplugged and got active as they took part in the 7th annual “Unplug, Be Outside & Be Active” event held May 7-9. The event is coordinated by Sandpoint Parks & Recreation.
Parks & Recreation staff said in a press release that the event was a resounding success and good responses to such program as this are rewarding and encouraging. The purpose of this free series of activities is to encourage people to “unplug” from their electronic devices such as TVs, computers, video games, etc. and to find a healthy outlet where they can enjoy being physically active.
The staff noted that one of the department’s 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 goal, they said.
The “Unplugged” event ran for three days, May 7-9, after school from 3-7 p.m. each day and featured a wide range of options in 11 different activities. Unplugged activities were sponsored by Parks & Recreation as well as local groups whose members volunteered their time, effort, and in some cases, their own facilities to encourage physical activity in the community.
Additionally, seven youth won fun drawing prizes which encourage continued physical activity. Kids had to attend and get activity leader signatures at three or more events to be eligible to enter the drawing. Winners were Silas Kuhlman, Anna Gronfir, Toby Walker, Kevin Collins, Caylee Hoernke, Lizzy Kuhlman, and Beverly Hudson.
Among the many groups and individuals which gave their time to provide this year’s activities were Kinnikinnick Native Plant Society, Boy Scout Troop 111, dance instructor Chika Orton, Sandpoint Nordic Youth Ski Team, Kaniksu Land Trust, Alpine Shop, Panhandle Pickleball Club, Schweitzer Activity Center, East Bonner County Library District youth services staff, and mountain bikers Marty Andrews and Paula Lee in addition to Parks & Rec staff who offered youth tennis clinics and Ultimate Frisbee.