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Sandpoint offering youth, adult summer programs

by LAUREN REICHENBACH
Staff Writer | May 31, 2024 1:00 AM

SANDPOINT — Summer has been slow to arrive in Sandpoint, but as the weather forecast promises that warmer weather is right around the corner, the city of Sandpoint is gearing up to kick off its summer programs for youth and adults.

Although the city did not print hard copy booklets of its summer programs this year, Sandpoint Recreation supervisor Katheryne Bradbury said she doesn’t want that to stop people from enjoying summer as much as possible with the plethora of options the city has to offer.

“I’m wanting this summer to be as successful as we can make it,” she said.

This year, Sandpoint is offering beginner and intermediate tennis classes as well as a co-ed softball league.

“Leagues start July 2 and run through August 29,” Bradbury said. “Get your team together and register.”

A captain’s meeting for each softball team will be held June 13 at City Hall at 5:30 p.m.

The city is also offering multiple enrichment programs that aren’t so physically demanding. With the Strollerbrary and Naturebrary program, attendees have the opportunity to take walks with East Bonner County Library staff every Thursday and Friday morning. Attendees can enjoy nature, meet their neighbors, make connections and learn about various topics with numerous guest speakers throughout the summer.

Bonner County Historical Society and Museum staff will be leading a city program this summer, which will take place from 2:30-3:30 p.m. every Friday. This program will offer historic tours on different topics about Bonner County.

Another historic walking option will be available this summer as well.

“The City of Sandpoint's Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces division, and Arts, Culture and Historic Preservation Commission, in collaboration with the Bonner County History Museum invites you to enjoy ‘A Walk Through History,’” Bradbury said.

This free walk will take attendees around Sandpoint’s historic downtown area Fridays from 10-11 a.m.

New this summer is a program called Buti Yoga. 

“Buti has been one of the fastest growing fitness modalities in recent history,” said Bradbury. “This movement style is intuitive, creative and includes unique movement patterns that help the body avoid plateaus physically and emotionally.”

Taught by Jessica Lark, this class will be held at City Beach by the Statue of Liberty pier. The first class will be held Saturday, June 8, at 1 p.m.

Don’t worry, the kids haven’t been forgotten, either. Sandpoint is hosting a plethora of children’s programs this summer to help kids get outside and exercise.

There will be three tennis programs hosted this year: One for “tiny tots,” ages 4 and 5 years old; one for “hot hitters,” ages 6 and 7 years old; and regular beginner, intermediate and skill development classes for kids ages 8 and up.

A high school tennis program will also be hosted for teens.

“Run by Kent Anderson, Sandpoint varsity tennis coach, participants will get the opportunity to work out with some of the best college coaches and pros in the state,” Bradbury said. “The Sandpoint Tennis Camp was developed to provide players an opportunity to become better tennis players in a fun, positive atmosphere.”

Two special events are being hosted by the city of Sandpoint this summer as well.

The CHAFE family fun bicycle ride will take place Saturday, June 15 at Sandpoint City Beach. The ride will be four total miles.

“Helmets are required, all participants must be present for the safety presentation at 12:30 p.m.” said Bradbruy.

Participants 13 years and older will cost $10 each. Kids are allowed to ride for free.

For gun enthusiasts, a Brownells/NRA daughter-son range day is being held the weekend of June 15 and 16. This event is free to attend at the City of Sandpoint outdoor shooting range.