IDAHO
FREE JUNE 2017
MAGAZINE
Traveling alone Why it’s good for kids
Children are individuals Interact accordingly
Conversational arts Very important skills
Festival season
Get prepared
See inside for...
SUMMER Events, Festivals & Things To Do
Sean Chuma of Tandem Base in Twin Falls takes his passenger, Luica Chiminacio, off the Perrine Bridge. Photo Cred, Luanne Horting. Follow Luanne Horting @lhorting and Sean Chuma @seanchuma. Want your child’s photo on next month’s cover?
Check inside for details!
IDAHO
Contents June 2017
MAGAZINE
Features Columns Your superpower: Use it wisely
6
4
Irene’s Insights:
Organize your pantry
5
moMENts:
Stuffed animals’ lives Idaho Adventure 7 Seekers 10 Social Skills: Conversational arts We Have You 17 KIDS FIRST!: Covered!
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2
Girls on a train: What a reunion
9
18 Manic Mothering:
Letting kids travel alone
Departments
Children are people:
16 8
The fear effect:
19
Interact accordingly Stop yelling!
Festival season: Take advantage
Crafts on a Dime:
Watercolor paint cubes
Events, Festivals & Things To Do
21-23
Publisher Sterling Media Ltd. Editor Gaye Bunderson gayeb@sterlingmedialtd.com 208-854-8345 Sales & Marketing Kimberly McMullen kim@sterlingmedialtd.com 208-854-8347 Graphic Design Matthew Sanchez Contributors Daniel Bobinski, Rocky Detwiler, Susan Evans, Patrick Hempfing, Genny Heikka, Sara Marchessault, Beth Markley, Sandy Spurgeon McDaniel, Samantha Stillman, and Irene Woodworth Distribution Specialists Idaho Distribution Services
20
SUMMER
Volume 5, Number 6
In Each Edition 3
Editor’s Intro Curiosity pluses
12-15 Family Events Calendar:
Family friendly activities & events for June & Early July!
JUNE 2017 | Idaho Family Magazine
Idaho Family Magazine, published monthly by Sterling Media Ltd., is committed to providing readers with informative and entertaining information to help them in maintaining healthy families and positive lifestyles. It is distributed throughout the valley as a free publication. Idaho Family Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements or opinions expressed by editorial contributors or advertisers. The acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. Idaho Family Magazine does not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without express written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. Idaho Family Magazine reserves the right to edit or reject all materials submitted. All rights reserved. Copyright 2017 by Sterling Media Ltd.
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Editor’s Intro
Children’s constant curiosity a good thing
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uriosity is an amazing thing. It’s the catalyst that drives invention, the impulse behind scientific achievement, the engine of artistic creativity, and the spark that makes us explore life and find it worth living. There is no realm in which curiousity is not useful. I recently listened to a TV interview with Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who said her love of law stemmed from a curiosity about people, communities, organizations, and the government, and how they all fit together. The power of a curious mind isn’t relegated to the arts and sciences. Curiosity isn’t just revelant to great achievements, such as the exploration of Mars. It seems to me an everyday impulse that takes people of all ages from boredom to wonder. I think encouraging your children’s curiousity is one of the best things you can do for them. Most kids possess a natural curiousity about many things — some of them oddly trivial to adults. I remember as a child thinking worms were fascinating because you couldn’t tell their heads from their “bottom parts.” That’s the kind of curious stuff kids relish. Children are renowned for their “why,” “what’s that,” and “how come” questions. Those constant queries can be bothersome at times. Author Ian Leslie in an article in The Guardian titled, “The importance of encouraging curiosity in children,” wrote: “The questions of children can become annoying, but I’d rather my daughter asked too many questions than too few. The only thing worse than having to explain to your child how babies are made would be a child who didn’t want to know.” Another author, Justin Coulson, in an article on the website Kidspot, wrote: “People who are curious and who love learning new things are usually happier and more optimistic than those who have no interest in learning. Furthermore, those who are curious generally do well academically, and find work that is continually interesting to them.” Many articles are available online about how to nurture creativity in youngsters. One article warned parents how not to constrain their children’s creative impulses. I’ll share those warnings here. They are given by Bruce Perry, M.D., Ph.D., in an article titled, “Curiosity: The Fuel of Development.” “For too many children, curiosity fades,” Perry wrote. “Curiosity dimmed is a future denied. Our potential — emotional, social, and cognitive — is expressed through the quantity and quality of our experiences. And the less-curious child will make fewer new friends, join fewer social groups, read fewer books, and take fewer hikes. The less-curious child is harder to teach because he is harder to inspire, enthuse, and motivate.” Perry, who is an expert on brain development, said there are several common ways adults squelch inquisitiveness in little ones, including
fear, disapproval and absence. He writes: “Fear: Fear kills curiosity. When the child’s world is chaotic or when he is afraid, he will not like novelty. He will seek the familiar, staying in his comfort zone, unwilling to leave and explore new things. “Disapproval: ‘Don’t touch. Don’t climb. Don’t yell. Don’t take that apart. Don’t get dirty. Don’t. Don’t. Don’t. Don’t.’ Children sense and respond to fears, biases, and attitudes. If we convey a sense of disgust at the mud on their shoes and the slime on their hands, their discovery of tadpoles will be diminished. “Absence: The presence of a caring, invested adult provides two things essential for optimal exploration: 1) a sense of safety from which to set out to discover new things and 2) the capacity to share the discovery and, thereby, get the pleasure and reinforcement from that discovery.” On the flip side, here are five tips, in brief, for fostering a curious nature in your offspring: 1. Don’t always answer their questions. Give them the opportunity to think things through for themselves. 2. Help your kids find the answers to their questions. Lead them to places where information can be gleaned, such as books or the Internet. 3. Follow their interests. Support and encourage their curiosity and help them have fun learning. 4. Read together and encourage questions. Show your children that you are curious too, and that vibrant curiosity is a positive attribute. 5. Provide your children with open-ended activities. Don’t orchestrate their free time. Give them opportunties to explore on their own and be self-guided. Broader information on these tips can be found in the article they are taken from: “5 Ways to Boost Your Child’s Curiosity Today,” written by Sue Lively (http://onetimethrough.com/5-ways-boost-childscuriosity/). Did curiosity really kill the cat? Maybe. Cats can be dumb. And children, of course, can sometimes be oblivious to potential dangers and may need to be taught caution when they are curious about some things. But if a child wants to know where a worm’s bum is, humor her. Yes, it’s silly, but it could give that little girl, or boy, an ongoing hunger to know far bigger and more important things in life. The youngster could grow up to be an entomologist, biologist, engineer, nurse, or — what the heck — a magazine editor. Or he or she may just find pure joy in discovering something new every day. n – Gaye Bunderson, editor Sources: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2014/jun/07/importance-encouraging-curiosity-children http://www.kidspot.com.au/school/secondary/study-skills/raising-smart-curious-children http://teacher.scholastic.com/professional/bruceperry/curiosity.htm http://onetimethrough.com/5-ways-boost-childs-curiosity/
Children’s Sports Photos Wanted Idaho Family Magazine would love to put your child or children on our cover. All photos should be high quality, sharp and clear, and high resolution of around 300 dpi. Color photos are preferred, and all photos need to be vertical not horizontal. Please identify the children in the photos, the children’s ages, and what Treasure Valley community they reside in. (If chosen for the cover, their last names will not be used.) Send the photos to gayeb@sterlingmedialtd.com.
On the Cover:
Sean Chuma of Tandem Base in Twin Falls takes his passenger, Luica Chiminacio, off the Perrine Bridge.
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Idaho Family Magazine | JUNE 2017
Irene’s Insights
Anatomy of an organized pantry smaller packaged food, etc. There are a variety of containers to choose for your organization project. It will depend on what kind of o you ever get overwhelmed when you budget you have to explore those options. There are think of organizing any part of your clear or colored bins, fabric square totes, straw baskets home? Experts tell us it is best to start and metal wire baskets. Since I like to do things on a with a small project to build your confidence so smaller budget, I decided that my local Dollar Tree that you can conquer the bigger challenges. would meet my needs for various bins and containers I was a caregiver for over five years both long to make it more organized and practical. They have and short distances for both my parents. Due to a variety of sizes and colors that will fit in any pantry. the time-consuming task, I was unable to stay I decided to purchase some white and red bins that organized. I decided that this year would be would help me accomplish my goal. one where I would get back on my organization Clear containers work the best to store flour, routine and downsize our household belongings. sugar, rice, cereal, nuts, etc. This will save you time Did you know that according to the US News to be able to see what is inside and how soon you will and World Report, “Average Americans spend need to add it your grocery list. I have some older clear Irene Woodworth one year of their life looking for lost or misplaced Mason jar containers with an attached lid that items?” Wow, that is a lot of time wasted. have worked well for me through the years. I also purchased some I started doing weekly meal planning and couponing to get some with red lids that have been staples in my pantry. routine back into my life. I realized one of the main areas that Recycled glass jars that once contained pickles, peanut butter, needed organization was my kitchen pantry. It is so easy just to put dressing or baby food are great to use and they are free. You could things in there and not see them buried behind other things. I ended always paint your lids or decorate them to match your décor. up buying things I already had. Enough was enough! 4. Lazy Susan’s in different heights work wonders because they I decided to take all of the kitchen pantry items out and take invencan turn on a shelf and help you see canned items, shorter and taller tory of what I really had in there. It was an eye-opening experience. I jars, or containers of similar items. These Lazy Susan’s actually are cleaned it from top to bottom and decided it was time to update it. I not so lazy in my pantry! had some contact paper left over from another project, and I decided 5. Risers and metal racks also work well for storage. They can that would work just as well on the shelves. It was a neutral tan and go in areas that will increase your visibility and organization. white scroll design that would work and coordinate with other colors 6. Labels. Your jars and containers need to be clearly labeled with for my finished look. a label maker, tags, or cards that match your desired décor. Some Here is my anatomy of organizing my pantry: people like the chalkboard style that can be written and changed as 1. Make a plan. I have been getting various ideas for some time needed. on my Pinterest Boards that I had filed away, so I took another look I decided to use a green design with a simple font that I created on at some of those my computer. For me a heavy cardstock was best to use as a label. It ideas. will last longer and look crisp, clean and organized. 2. Choose a 7. Spices. Another big part of this project was organizing my style. You can spices. I had all sizes and kinds that needed a better system. I found choose from a some larger, metal round containers with see-through lids that would variety of decoratwork for me at the dollar store. I bought all they had in stock and ing styles that fit then went online to order a case of 24 to finish this task. The case your personality and was sent to the store, and this saved me any shipping charges. your home. There I have my spieces in a drawer, with two stacked on top of each are various types of other alphabetically. I may later get some metal strips that can be storage containers mounted on the wall to display them, since they have a magnetic botand labeling that will tom. It was fun to label them and get them organized. It hardly takes match your unique any time to cook with these spices now, since they are organized in a style. You can choose drawer. from contemporary, 8. Larger items such as cooking pots or larger cleaning conrustic, shabby chic or tainers may need to be stored on the floor. I put some in matching a traditional style. containers that helped me to corral them together. 3. Choose your No matter where you are in organizing your home, I hope that my containers. You project will encourage you to update and simplify your life, beginning will need to measure with a smaller project like I did with my pantry. “Inch by inch life is your shelves to see a cinch, but by the yard it is very hard!” I have to go now to continue what size of containanother organizational project in my home one section at a time... n ers will fit on them that will create draw- Irene Woodworth is known as “Idaho’s Color Lady” and is founder and CEO of Redesign Boise. She is a national redesign award winner, motivational speaker, certified redesigner and ers to corral similar It’s often hard to find what you need in a disorganized pancolor consultant, and instructor on redesign and color. She has a degree in education and interior items such as bottles try. There are ways to simply and inexpensively organize a design and has taught various decorating and color classes throughout the country. For more pantry so that hunting for items becomes unnecessary. (Photo of sauces, soups, information, visit RedesignBoise.com. By Irene Woodworth
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courtesy of Irene Woodworth)
JUNE 2017 | Idaho Family Magazine
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moMENts
The life and times of stuffed animals squeeze under the pillows while she practices the clarinet, at least for the y 12-year-old squeaky parts. daughter, JesThere have also been sie, has acculearning times — for mulated a family of stuffed everyone. The animals animals. If I counted them, witnessed a dad crouched I’d miss my writing deadbehind Elle, the floor line, so let’s just go with elephant, as Jessie learned “over a hundred.” They to sit up on her own. come in all shapes and Abby, the stuffed dog sizes. Some are great for with floppy ears, went cuddling, others are pupto Pre-K to learn about pets, and one can even be veterinarians and won an ridden. Simply put, Jessie’s award. Many animals Patrick Hempfing room represents the animal attended class in the kingdom quite well. Stuffed bedroom as Jessie and I animals, almost all of them with names, held syllabus day at home while Mattie, a sleep with Jessie in her bed or watch over professor, held class at the college. I never her from their home on her bedroom thought I’d be a nervous speaker in front dresser. The largest ones, an elephant, a of stuffed animals, but again, these were dog, and a penguin, take up floor space. learning times. The animals did give me a My wife, Mattie, and I have found Jesgood evaluation at the end of the session. sie’s tween years to be interesting. At times, Sometimes the animals even took part in we watch a grown-up Jessie with “teenage” exciting trips, like family vacations, wagon mannerisms. Occasionally though, we get rides around the neighborhood, and picto see the little girl who still finds joy and nics in the back of the pickup truck. Some comfort with her stuffed-animal friends. If of them came with Jessie to our bed when the animals could talk, I wonder what they she had bad dreams or the electricity would say. They’ve seen and heard a lot went out. And even though a few animals during Jessie’s first 12 years. fell onto the ground, they always made it For sure, they’d share happy stories. safely back home to Jessie’s room. Often, they starred in Jessie’s plays, puppet Then, there were the extra special family shows, and dance performances. Many of times, like when the entire family snuggled the lucky ones were “animal of the day,” in Jessie’s bed to observe the newly hung which entitled the honoree to a spot at the glow-in-the-dark stars and planets on kitchen table for breakfast and a front row Jessie’s ceiling and walls. Sometimes it seat on the sofa while Jessie read books to was a bit too cozy, like when we squeezed it. Of course, the animals got to watch lots Dad, Mom, Jessie, our dog, and 14 stuffed of daddy-daughter fun times on her bedanimals into her child’s play tent. Eeyore room floor, as we played cards and board hasn’t forgiven me yet for sitting on him, games, had picnics, and dressed Barbie and he’s a lot flatter than he used to be. dolls. I’m not sure if the animals would Mattie and the dog squish the stuffed aniconsider Jessie dressing up our real dog in mals, too, when they lie on opposite sides all kinds of outfits as a happy time (it was of Jessie for bedtime prayers, while Dad for Jessie) or an unhappy time (probably kneels at the foot of the bed. the dog’s perspective). “Okay, Dad, I’m ready to go.” Speaking of unhappy times, the animals I look up from the morning newspaper. would have witnessed a few of those, too, No stuffed animals are in sight. Neither is as life has its challenges. I’m not referring my little girl. Instead, I spot a young lady to falling out of the crowded bed due to in a pretty red dress, pulling her bookbag Jessie’s tossing and turning, or cleaning toward the front door. day when they spun in the wash machine. “Mattie, I’m taking Jessie to school now. Unfortunately, they witnessed sad moI’m going to stay with her all day as she’s ments and felt the moisture of Jessie’s tears way too pretty.” during her difficult days, like the death Okay, I realize a 6’5” father won’t blend of her first dog and leaving her friends in with the sixth graders. Maybe it’s good to move to another state. More recently, I have an army of stuffed animals at my the animals probably wish they could all disposal. A protective dad can’t have too By Patrick Hempfing
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many lions, tigers and bears. Her skunk might come in handy, too. Until next month, remember to cherish the moments. Happy Father’s Day! n Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year professional career in banking, accounting, and auditing before he became a father at age 44. He is now a full-time husband, stay-at-home dad, and writer. Follow Patrick at www.facebook.com/patricklhempfing and on Twitter @PatrickHempfing.
Idaho Family Magazine | JUNE 2017
Plant seeds for life
Beware how you use your ‘superpower’ withdrawal last year. She had been feeling down and battling negative id you know thoughts about herself, that everyone so she went to the family in your famfriend asking for advice. ily is a superhero? I’m My teenage girl was not talking about cape afraid there might be wearing, wall crawling, something wrong with or matching super suits. her and the feelings she Although, matching super was experiencing. She suits would be really cool. chose to ask a family I’m guessing you don’t friend who has suffered realize your superpower, from depression for many even though you wield it Rocky Detwiler years. I’m sure this famevery day, and that’s danily friend did not mean gerous because this power can be used to harm with her words of advice, but those do amazing good or terrible destruction. words almost cost my daughter’s life. What is this superpower, capable of You see, this family friend listened to good or evil, which we all carry with us? what my daughter shared and assumed It’s the words we say to others and ourmy daughter was suffering from the same selves. Our words are powerful! Actually, they are ultra powerful. The most power- debilitating depression she suffered from. ful force in the world is in our words, and This friend told my daughter that depreswe plant them daily in the hearts of those sion was now a part of her life. Some days may be better and others worse, but we interact with. the depression would be with her for the My teenage daughter shared a sad story with me recently, showing what can rest of her life. My daughter heard these words and happen when this superpower is not used sunk deep into sadness for several wisely. A little over a year ago, she began months. She couldn’t believe that she to withdraw from life. She seemed sad would suffer with these negative thoughts or irritable most of the time and like she and feelings for the rest of her life. She was just going through the motions of wondered how she could be a wife or day-to-day life. I was concerned, but the mother while suffering from severe demore I questioned or attempted converpression. She was never diagnosed with sation, the more I was shut out. depression, yet she spent months thinking I watched from a distance, knowing she was doomed to suffer with it forever. it’s normal for teens to have their mood All because of a few words spoken to swings. I took her to see a professional her by a friend. Those words were plantbecause she wasn’t talking to me. Then I ed in her heart and it took her months decided the best course of action was to to decide that she wanted to prove this love on her every chance I got and plant family friend wrong. She made a decision positive seeds in her heart every day. to combat the negative thoughts by tellWhat I didn’t know until recently is that ing herself she would overcome this, and my daughter had a conversation with a it would NOT stay with her for the rest family friend shortly before this period of By Rocky Detwiler
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JUNE 2017 | Idaho Family Magazine
of her life. She used her superpower in a positive way. I’d like to believe that my love and continuous supply of positive seeds helped along this process. Over time, my strong teenage daughter was able to bring herself out of this slump and begin truly living again. She now delightfully engages in our family activities and discussions on a regular basis. She is a true joy to be around and I’m so proud of the woman she is becoming. She now realizes the destructive power carried by those words spoken to her over a year ago. Words have a vibration and can either lift up or tear down. Words can guide and lead, or sway and manipulate. We form our world by the inner thoughts and words we speak. They are the seeds that take root when their meaning is conveyed. Since words are the seeds of creation and words define who we become, it is vitally important to harness this superpower each of us carries every day. We must all realize that a positive filter is important when speaking to others and ourselves. I challenge you and your family to practice harnessing your superpower. Start small with conversations around the dinner table where you each say one compliment to the person sitting next to you. Use your words to uplift each other and be quick to apologize when something slips out that you didn’t mean to say. Plant seeds that will bring life to everyone you interact with, including yourself. n Rocky Detwiler is the author of “The Samson Effect.” You may contact Rocky at rockyd@samson.life. Visit his website at www.rockydetwiler.com to download his free ebook, “5 Steps to Fit & Healthy” to help you achieve your physical goals in 2017.
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Idaho Family Magazine | JUNE 2017
Crafts on a Dime
Watercolor paint cubes for kids By Samantha Stillman
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ow that school has ended, you may be beginning to search for activities to keep your kids occupied on those hot, summer days. These watercolor paint cubes are just the thing for getting your kids outside and keeping them cool. Your older kids may even enjoy helping and experimenting with mixing colors — science and fun for a win-win. Happy summer! (Final Product!) Supplies needed: Ice tray Food coloring Popsicle sticks Scissors Spoon Instructions: 1. Fill your ice tray until each compartment has enough water, but not too much or the cubes will connect. Carefully begin placing anywhere from 5-10 drops of food coloring per cube. For the lighter colors, I used 10 drops, while for the darker colors, I used 5-6. Using the handle of a spoon, I stirred the water in each cube and wiped the end off with a tissue between colors. 2. Freeze for 30 minutes. While waiting, start cutting your popsicle sticks in half. Once the time is up, place a stick in the middle of each cube. It should be frozen enough to keep the stick up but not so frozen that you cannot place the stick. 3. Freeze the cubes until solid (4-6 hours). When ready to use, allow them to sit out a minute and then they are ready. I suggest using these only outside and with clothes that you don’t mind getting stained, as food coloring does not wash out. n Samantha Stillman is a Treasure Valley crafts instructor and freelance writer. She may be reached at craftsonadime10@gmail.com.
JUNE 2017 | Idaho Family Magazine
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A friendship story
Girls on a train reconnect with joy By Genny Heikka
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hortly after we boarded the train to San Francisco, we went to the Cafe car to get some coffee and breakfast. We were standing in line when the girl in front of us tapped the girl in front of her on the back, and when she turned around, her eyes got huge and her face lit up. “Oh my GOSH!” she shouted. She held out her arms. The two friends laughed and hugged. “Oh my gosh! I can’t believe this! Where are you headed?” “The financial district!” the other girl shouted. They grabbed each other’s hands. “Me too!” They hugged again. And again. (As my daughter said afterwards, “They sure made a scene, Mommy.”) A beautiful scene. The man at the register waited patiently for them to finishing hugging so they could order. (I’m pretty sure he didn’t mind the wait. He was smiling just as much as everyone else was.) Finally, the girls turned to him. “This is my BEST friend,” one of them said proudly. She put her arm around the other girl’s shoulder. I smiled and fought the lump in my throat. As they finished ordering, I heard one of them say, “This is perfect. We can sit together!” I was curious and had to ask… “So you guys didn’t know you were both going to be on the train?” “We had no idea!” they laughed. “How long has it been since you’ve seen each other?” And this is what really got me… “About six weeks.” Six weeks? By the way they acted, I would’ve guessed it had been years. “How neat,” I said, again fighting the lump in my throat. Just then, their food was ready. They got their things, waved to the rest of us in line, and headed out of the Cafe car smiling and laughing. I stood there, looking at the man ready to take my order, blinking back tears. Because that might’ve been one of the sweetest encounters of friendship I’ve ever seen. And it made me think of my own friends. It made me remember
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when my friend Jen moved to New Jersey and how hard we cried when we said goodbye. It made me remember how deeply my heart ached when my friend Lisa was diagnosed with breast cancer. And how much her strength and recovery inspired me. It made me think about my friend Amy and how she and I still laugh about things we did in fourth grade. It made me appreciate all the ways my friends have touched my life: bringing meals over when my kids were born, calling when I was going through some difficulties, celebrating successes, and being there during failures. And it made me want to be the kind of friend who gives huge hellos and excited hugs when we run into each other, even if it’s only been six weeks. n Genny Heikka is a mom, author, speaker and coffee lover. Stop by her blog at gennyheikka.com and share a cup or connect with her on Twitter at @GennyHeikka.
Idaho Family Magazine | JUNE 2017
Social Skills
The art of conversation (or lack thereof) self-initiation. These things are very, very important for sustainability and your own self-gratification and happiness when you’re older.” ow you speak can say a lot about Kids these days are having trouble handling your character and who you are. Are spontaneous social interactions. you selfish? Timid? Boring? Others “They don’t know how to handle conflict facewill be able to tell simply by the way you express to-face because so many things happen through yourself. On the other hand, do you (or someone some sort of technology,” Melissa Ortega, a you love) have the skills to hold a face-to-face child psychologist at New York’s Child Mind conversation? Institute, said. “Clinically, I’m seeing it in the When I shared this topic with my father the office. The high school kids who I do see will be other day, he told me about a couple of recent checking their phones constantly. They’ll use it experiences he had with mature adults. One was as an avoidance strategy. They’ll see if they got a with a gentleman in his seventies who told my text message in the two minutes they were talkfather all about his car rebuilding project. My faing to me.” ther could not get a word in edgewise. The other Conversation takes practice, and a dependence Susan Evans was with a woman in her early forties and he on devices can make it that much harder for learned all about her facelift. She learned nothchildren who are already struggling socially. Despite the rise of ing about him… These adults are at an age where they should digital communication, Ortega said, adolescents will need to know better. They can certainly express themselves, but the art converse. of conversation is like the tide — some give, some take — and “I can’t imagine these kids sitting down in an interview and they neglected that fact (and committed a couple of other “faux having a reciprocal conversation easily,” she said. “They haven’t pas” as well). had these years of learning about awkward pauses. Being able to tolerate the discomfort is not something they’re going to be used Conversation etiquette to, unless their parents make it a priority.” The topics of conversation appropriate for a social gathering So Mom and Dad, let’s make it a priority. Limit the time with are many, but topics not to be discussed are almost as abundant: tech devices so that your child (and you) can recognize when • Personal lives of others online involvement is interfering with offline existence. And, as • Finances I heard on NPR the other day while listening to a conversation • Personal problems about this topic: Have more dinner parties! Invite friends and • It is acceptable to discuss the recent injury or illness of a colleagues of all ages and all walks of life to help your children person, but never at the dinner table. develop these skills. Additional topics to avoid are gruesome tales, sex, lengthy Children can benefit by learning the following: spiels about your children or pets, and yourself. It is okay to • Preparing for face-to-face teacher meetings, dates, interviews mention things that are going on in your life, but it’s easy to get carried away with that topic and become boring, as noted by my and school events • Avoiding conversational “faux pas” father. • Becoming aware of the importance of body language, eye Great topics of conversation are: contact and tone • Recent news events • Interacting with authority figures and an older, less technol• Books ogy-savvy generation • History • Mitigating the susceptibility and trauma of false friendships • Technology and bullying • Music Perhaps the path back to the art of conversation will feel artifi• Sports cial, but I believe that we as individuals and as communities have Try to keep conversation light, humorous or general. Don’t much to gain by taking small steps toward that achievement. hog the conversation, either. If you’ve been talking for more As a reminder: than 5 minutes straight, it is time to allow another person the • Be interested (and show that you are) in the person you are spotlight. Do so by asking them a question which will turn the talking to. conversation over to them. Being a good conversationalist is not • Ask questions. just the ability to speak well, but also the ability to listen well. • Be honest (and tactful). • Listen attentively and build the conversation on answers you Developing face-to-face skills receive. But what about those who lack the training to be able to even • Have something to say. Learn something about your audiexpress themselves? I am fearful for the future of our younger ence or have something to discuss. generation. Actual conversation is becoming a thing of the past, Good luck! n as is evident to many who study child development. So many times a young person will reach for a device rather than engage Susan Evans owns Social Essence, an Eagle-based company serving the in a conversation. Treasure Valley. She offers youth culture and adult culture programs designed Cris Rowan, a pediatric occupational therapist, argues, “They to help participants improve their professional and personal lives. She may be are not entertaining themselves; the device does that for them. reached at susan@socialessence.com, 631-0576, or www.socialessence.com. So there’s no creative development, no use of imagination, no By Susan Evans
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10 JUNE 2017 | Idaho Family Magazine
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Idaho Family Magazine | JUNE 2017 11
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Adoption Information Meeting
planets in the summer night skies. Also, get prepared for the solar eclipse coming in August. Sky maps will be provided, and all ages are welcome. Call 972-8340 for more information.
Wednesday nights are Family Nights at Idaho IceWorld, 7072 S. Eisenman Rd. in Boise, from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m.; every Friday is Foodbank Friday, and anyone who brings a nonperishable food item to donate will get a free skate rental; and Thursdays are Parent & Tot Skate Thursdays, for parents and their children under age 8, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, go to idahoiceworld.com.
A New Beginning Adoption Agency holds free Adoption Information Meetings each month, providing a no-pressure environment for families to learn about adopting infants, as well as children in the U.S. foster care system. Meetings for June and July are set for 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 6, and 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 11. All meetings are held at 8660 W. Emerald, Ste. 142, in Boise. Though the meetings are free, pre-registration is required; call 939-3865 or email admin@ adoptanewbeginning.org.
Home Depot Kids’ Clinic
Summer Fest STEAM Camp
Join Nampa Recreation for free boot camp classes at Lakeview Park all summer long from 8 to 8:45 a.m. on Wednesdays, June 7 through August 16. The boot camp classes will combine cardio drills, plyometrics, and body weight strength training. Participants will meet near the amphitheater at the park to prepare for a great workout in the great outdoors. Minimum age is 12 years old. Go to nampaparksandrecreation. org.
Wednesdays
eARThworks at the Boise WaterShed Tuesdays & Thursdays
On select Tuesdays and Thursdays in June and July, the Boise WaterShed will offer integrated art and science classes for children 5 and up. Parents may register for classes and learn along with their child or children. All classes are free of charge and are taught by professional artists and scientists. Classes for kids ages 5-10 will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and classes for kids ages 11 and up will be held from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Pre-registration is required by calling 608-7300 or emailing BW@cityofboise.org. Adults do not need to attend with their young ones, and there is a limit of two classes per person. Specific class dates and descriptions are available at BoiseEnvironmentalEducation.org.
Free Parent Education Seminar First & Third Thursdays
Brain Balance Achievement Center at 3210 E. Chinden Blvd., #113, in Eagle holds a Free Parent Education Seminar from 7 to 8 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays of every month. Dr. Ray Booth, clinical psychologist, presents information on the topic, “Why Your Child Is Struggling” and answers questions. For more information, contact Executive Director Dawna Booth at 938-1312 or dbooth@ brainbalancecenters.com.
Reading at the Refuge First & Third Mondays
Preschoolers, kindergartners and their families are invited to Reading at the Refuge every first and third Monday, with the exception of federal holidays, at 10 a.m. and repeating at 2 p.m. at the Deer Flat Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center near Lake Lowell in Nampa. There will be a wildlife-related story, craft-making, and exploring the Visitor Center and trails at the refuge. For more information, go to fws.gov/deerflat, email deerflat@fws.gov or call 467-9278.
June 6 & July 11
June 6 – July 28
Celebrate Summer Fest with fun STEAM activities for kids ages 6-12. From June 6 to July 28, Boise Public Library is holding a series of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math programs 5 times each week at all 5 Boise Public Library locations, beginning at 4 p.m. There will be different programming at each location, so make sure to check the calendar at boisepubliclibrary.org for each day’s activity. Locations are as follows: • Tuesdays, Library! at Bown Crossing • Wednesdays, Library! at Collister • Thursdays, Library! at Cole & Ustick • Thursdays, Main Library (downtown) • Fridays, Library! at Hillcrest
Nampa Public Library programs Various Dates – Starting June 6
Nampa Public Library will offer programs for all ages throughout June as follows: Baby/ Toddler Storytime – 10:15 to 11 a.m., Tuesdays, June 6, 13, 20, and 27, and Thursdays, June 8, 15, 22 and 29; Preschool Storytime – 10:15 to 11 a.m., Wednesdays, June 7, 14, 21 and 28, and Fridays, June 9, 16, 23 and 30; Sensory Storytime – 4:15 to 5 p.m., Mondays, June 12 and 26; Right on Target – 10:30 a.m. to noon, Saturday, June 17; Tween Program – 3 to 4 p.m. Thursday, June 22, “Wings of Life — University of Idaho Youth Gardening Event”; and Teen Program, The Club – a new teen program for teens with disabilities (go to nampalibrary.org for more information).
Summer Easy Stargazing Wednesday, June 7
Summer Easy Stargazing is an introduction to stargazing, using just your eyes and a pair of binoculars, from 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 7, at the Library! at Hillcrest. You can find star clusters, satellites, meteors, lunar features, and
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Wednesday, June 7
A professional builder from Home Depot will guide youngsters through building something “summerific” from 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, June 7, at Eagle Public Library. Go to libcal. eaglepubliclibrary.org. (The library has many other programs for people of all ages.)
Fitness in the Park June 7 – August 16
Meridian Speedway Racing Thursday, June 8
There will be lots of action at Meridian Speedway during June and July, including Thursday night racing on June 8 beginning at 6:30 p.m. For more information, go to meridianspeedway.com.
Bird Banding on the Boise River Various Dates
Join the Intermountain Bird Observatory for songbird banding at the observatory’s Boise River Greenbelt site. Bandings will be held from 7 to 11:30 a.m. on June 8, June 18, June 29, July 8, July 22, and July 29. The event is free, but registration is required at https://www. eventbrite.com/e/boise-river-songbird-bandingtickets-33228239559. For more information, visit ibo.boisestate.edu (you may click through to sign up on this site as well). Space is limited, so sign up soon.
Gingerfest Friday, June 9
Are you a redhead, or do you know and love a redhead? Come celebrate redheads during Gingerfest from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 9, at the Old Idaho Penitentiary. Tickets are $6 for adults and $3 for kids ages 3-12.
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of Events
Month of June & Early July Please send family-related calendar items to gayeb@sterlingmedialtd.com.
“The Jumble Sale”
Gene Kleiner Day
The women of St. Michael’s Cathedral are planning an annual rummage sale they call “The Jumble Sale” on the following dates and times: Friday, June 9, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, June 10, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, June 11, from 8:30 a.m. to noon. The sale will be held at the Tuttle House on the cathedral campus at 512 N. 8th St. in Boise.
The City of Meridian will pay tribute to Gene Kleiner, who donated Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park to the city and its residents. The tribute will take place at 6 p.m. Saturday, June 10, at the park. Go to meridiancityspecialevents.org for more details as they become available.
June 9–11
Girls’ Basketball Camp June 9-10
The Northwest Nazarene University Women’s Basketball Program will host its annual girls’ basketball camp, for girls in the 2nd through 9th grades, from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 9, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 10, at Johnson Sports Center, 623 S. University Blvd. in Nampa. Cost to participate is $70. Go to nnusports.com or call 695-8357.
Around the World Saturday, June 10
Lakeshore Learning stores will be hosting a new free event this year titled “Around the World” for children ages 3 and up. Come to the Lakeshore Learning Store at 417 N. Milwaukee St. in Boise from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 10, grab your passport and “travel” across the world. Take a journey full of learning, with crafts and activities at each stop. Discover animals from every corner of the earth and build replicas of world-famous structures. Make a plane, train, car or boat to travel in. Call 377-1855 for more information. No reservations required.
Kids’ Fishing Day Saturday, June 10
Kids can learn about fish biology, fishing ethics, water safety, casting and rigging, and then test their newly learned skills fishing in Lake Lowell. No matter the weather, the event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 10, at Gotts Point, Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge. Fishing poles will be available to borrow if needed. For more information, go to fws.gov/deerflat, call 467-9278, or email deerflat@fws.gov.
Foothills Family Day Saturday, June 10
The Jim Hall Foothills Learning Center at 3188 Sunset Peak Rd. in Boise will hold a Family Picnic Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 10. The monthly nature programs at the center cover a variety of topics and feature expert speakers, crafts, activities, interpretive stations, and the foothills backyard to explore. Bring the whole family. The events are free, and no pre-registration is necessary. (No pets, please.) Go to bee.cityofboise.org for more information or call 493-2530.
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Saturday, June 10
Homedale Art in the Park Saturday, June 10
Crafters, artisans, food and fun will highlight Homedale’s Art in the Park event from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 10, in Betty Uda City Park.
Summer Saturdays at the Watershed Saturdays – Starting June 10
The Boise WaterShed will be open on Saturdays this summer in addition to regular business hours. Adults and children are welcome to come explore the exhibit hall or journey through the new River Campus to learn about the watershed through public art, landscaping, nature, and water features. Summer Saturdays will run from June 10 through August 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. WaterShed Wednesdays will take place from 10 a.m. to noon June 7 through August 9; and WaterShed Weekends will be held June 17, July 15 and August 19 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The WaterShed is located at 11818 W. Joplin Rd. in Boise. Go to bee.cityofboise.org for more information.
Annual Ten Mile Trail Challenge
Girl Scout Camps June 11-August 11
The Girl Scouts of Silver Sage will hold summer camps from June 11 through August 11. From Muggle Magic to Princess in Paradise, from Camp Kitniss to Cast-Iron Chef Cookoff, there’s something for every girl. Camp dates vary. Not a Girl Scout? Not a problem. Get help registering by calling 377-2011 or logging on to www. girlscouts-ssc.org.
Savor Idaho Sunday, June 11
The Idaho Grape Growers and Wine Producers Commission will host its ninth Savor Idaho, a wine and food event, from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 11, at the Idaho Botanical Garden on Old Penitentiary Road in Boise. Roughly 900 people attended last year’s Savor Idaho. Cost of a general admission ticket is $45 plus tax; a VIP ticket is $65 plus tax. Savor Idaho is for adults only; go to savoridaho.org.
Baseball Week and Scout Day at Roaring Springs
June 10-11
Test your riding skills on a natural trail course with obstacles for both young and old as the Ten Mile Riding Club presents its annual Trail Challenge beginning at 8 a.m. June 10-11 at 3455 E. Columbia Rd. in Meridian. Cost is $30 for a single rider or $90 for family members in the same household. Go to tmrcboise.org.
National Red Rose Day Sunday, June 11
Free to the public, National Red Rose Day will be celebrated from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 11, at Settlers Park in Meridian. Take the whole family for a fun day at the park, with vendors, good food and entertainment.
Mine Site Remediation and Restoration Sunday, June 11
2455 Old Penitentiary Rd. in Boise. Historically, once a mine played out, often the miners or company moved on, leaving behind an empty hole, contaminated material, and even equipment if removing it was too costly. This “Mine Site Remediation and Restoration” lecture will be free to IMMG members and $5 to non-members. For more information, go to idahomuseum.org or call Eliza at 571-5720.
A lecture by historian Troy Lambert will be presented at 1 p.m. Sunday, June 11, at the Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology,
June 12-16
Players, coaches and families of participants in Cal Ripken/Babe Ruth/Little League may purchase discounted full-day admission tickets to Roaring Springs during Baseball Week, June 12-16. Scout Day at Roaring Springs will be Saturday, June 17. Go to roaringsprings.com.
Stories Worth Telling: Expat Tales Tuesday, June 13
Everyone is welcome to participate in the “Stories Worth Telling” program from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, June 13, at the Library! at Collister. “Expat Tales” will be featured. If you’ve lived abroad or are from another country and are now living here, the Library! at Collister invites you to tell your stories about making the most out of expat living. Come and meet the diverse voices of the
More Events on Page 14
Idaho Family Magazine | JUNE 2017 13
Continued from Page 13 community and be inspired to explore new places and cultures. For more information, call 972-8320.
Family Movies at the Library Tuesdays – Starting June 13
Nampa Public Library will present free Family Summer Movies from 2 to 4 p.m. each Tuesday. Movies in June include: “Moana,” June 13; “Sing,” June 20; and “Trolls,” June 27. Go to nampalibrary.org.
Storytime with the Meridian Police Department Tuesday, June 13
A special Family Storytime featuring the Meridian Police Department will be held from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 13, at the Silverstone branch of the Meridian library. Go to mld.org or contact Nicole at nicole@mld.org or 884-2616 for more information.
*U-Pick Cherries* June 14-18
Pick your own cherries, during the Emmett Cherry Festival, Wednesday, June 14, through Sunday, June 18, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Bring the family out for a great time; picking buckets will be provided, but please bring your own boxes. Other fruits and veggies, jams, and dried fruit will be available at Frozen Dog Fruit Stand, 3990 Fuller Rd. in Emmett. For additional days and hours, as well as directions if needed, call (208) 365-8801.
Food Trucks on Flag Day Wednesday, June 14
Celebrate Flag Day at the Nampa Recreation Center, with food trucks and family fun from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 14, in the center’s backyard. The event will include familyfriendly, carnival-style games and activities, entertainment, vendor booths and fabulous food. All proceeds go toward the Nampa Recreation Center Scholarship Fund. Go to nampaparksandrecreation.org.
CableOne Movie Night in Meridian Fridays – Starting June 16
This summer will mark another season of CableOne Movie Night in Meridian, with free family-friendly movies under the stars in Settlers Park every Friday beginning at dusk during June, July and August. “The Secret Life of Pets” will be shown June 16; “Storks” will be featured June 23; “Sing” will be presented June 30; and “Kubo and the Two Strings” will be the feature on July 7. Go to meridiancityspecialevents.org.
CALENDAR
Silver Screen on the Green Fridays – Starting June 16
The Nampa Parks & Recreation Department will present its annual Silver Screen on the Green program every Friday from June 16 through August 18 at Optimist Park. The kidfriendly movies are shown for free on a large inflatable screen. If you plan to attend, bring blankets and lawn chairs. Each movie night features concessions and activities, as well as movies, and the fun begins at 8:30 p.m. Movies in June include “Trolls” on June 16; “Kubo and the Two Strings” on June 23; “The Secret Life of Pets” on June 30; and “Storks” on July 7. Go to nampaparksandrecreation.org.
“Movies Under the Stars” Various Dates – Starting June 17
Eight family “Movies Under the Stars” will be presented at 7 p.m. throughout the summer on the following days and at the following places: June 17, Julia Davis Park, 700 S. Capitol Blvd.; June 24, Bowden Park, 3230 W. Edson St.; July 15, Julia Davis Park; July 22, Sunset Park, 2625 N. 32nd St.; August 5, Ivywild Park, 416 W. Ivywild St.; August 12, Fort Boise Park, 155 E. Garrison Rd.; August 19, Julia Davis Park; and August 26, Molenaar Park, 2815 S. Maple Grove Rd. There will be free games for the kids provided by the Boise Parks & Recreation Mobile Recreation Van, including “capture the flag” and “dodgeball.” Movies will be shown on a 30-foot inflatable movie screen. For a complete schedule, go to parks.cityofboise.org or call 608-7680.
WaterShed Weekend Saturday, June 17
Trout Release — Rainbow trout ready for the Boise River will be the guests of honor at June’s WaterShed Weekend from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 17, at the Boise WaterShed Environmental Education Center, 11818 W. Joplin Rd. The program will include interactive activities about trout. Visitors can work with artist Renda Palmer to create beautifully designed fish art. At 10:30, participants will walk to the Boise River to release the rainbow trout with the help of Eddy Trout. The event is free, and no registration is required. Go to bee. cityofboise.org.
Summer Pop-Up Market Saturday, June 17
There will be homemade crafts and vendors offering products and services during this summertime event set for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 17 in the Nampa High School parking lot. Admission is free. For more information, call Jennifer at 353-2678.
Bark in the Park Saturday, June 17
Bark in the Park, a 3k Fun Walk at Ponderosa
14 JUNE 2017 | Idaho Family Magazine
State Park in McCall, is set for 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, June 17. Children and pets are welcome. Festivities will include a picnic lunch, live music, and contests and prizes for the following: • Dog Traveling the Greatest Distance to attend Bark in the Park • Best Dressed Dog & Owner • Dog & Owner Look-Alikes • Best Dog Trick • Best Tail Wag • Oldest Dog Funds raised help out the McPaws Animal Shelter. Once in McCall, follow the McPaws signs to the park. For more information, go to http://mcpaws.org/news-events/bark-in-thepark.html.
Meet a Cartoonist Saturday, June 17
Come meet award-winning cartoonist Stephan Pastis, creator of “Pearls Before Swine,” at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 17, at the main branch of Boise Public Library. Pastis is also the author of “Timmy Failure,” the New York Timesbestselling chapter book series for young readers about an inept kid and his sidekick polar bear. For more information, email Azam Houle at ahoule@cityofboise.org or call 972-8201.
Anything Can Happen – The Firebird Saturday, June 17
Join Paige Moore as she presents engaging music and movement programs for children 0-12 years old. On Saturday, June 17, from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. at the Cherry Lane branch of the Meridian library, Moore will present the classic Russian fairytale “The Firebird.” Children will play with the golden apples with the princesses, fight the monsters with Prince Ivan, and celebrate when good triumphs. Go to mld.org or contact Laura Abbott at labbott@mld.org or 888-4451.
Parents’ Day at the pools Sunday, June 18
On Sunday, June 18, parents accompanied by a paying child get to swim for free at Lincoln Pool and Lakeview Water Park, both in Nampa. Kids, grab your parents for this special day. Go to nampaparksandrecreation.org.
Family Movie Mania Monday, June 19
The Cherry Lane branch of the Meridian library will present Family Movie Mania from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, June 19. Craft activities start at 5:30, and the movie begins at 6. Snacks are provided, and no movie shown will have a rating higher than PG. Go to mld. org or contact Eleanor at eleanor@mld.org or 888-4451.
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of Events SNIP at Bardenay Charity Night
Kids’ Saturday Fun: Washi Tape Butterflys
Join SNIP (Spay Neuter Idaho Pets) from 5 to 9 p.m. Monday, June 19, at Bardenay’s Eagle location for Charity Night. Twenty percent of all sales will be donated to SNIP to help Treasure Valley families with affordable spay and neuter services. Go to SnipIdaho.org.
Children will have the opportunity to create bright and beautiful butterflys using colorful washi tape from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 24, at the Eagle Public Library. Also, the library will hold Kids’ Summer Fun: Northern Lights Art from 2 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 27. The youngsters will learn all about the Northern Lights and create a painting depicting them. Go to libcal.eaglepubliclibrary.org.
Monday, June 19
Atlantic Idea House tours Various Dates – Starting June 21
Interested people are welcome to come tour the Atlantic Idea House at 2108 S. Atlantic St. in Boise. The Atlantic Idea House is a small home owned by the City of Boise that has been renovated with sustainable and energy efficient features to showcase what is possible to improve the energy and water efficiency in your home. The house is open for tours one day a month from now through November. Tour dates and times include: 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 21; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 15; 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, August 16; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, September 16; 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, October 25; and 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 15. For more information, go to http://www.livboise.org/2017/03/a-modelhome-for-a-better-future/.
June 24
Pet-A-Pawlooza Saturday, June 24
This community event for all ages is for a great cause: to raise money for the Boise Police Department K9 unit and SNIP, a local spay and neuter nonprofit. It’s set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 24, in Julia Davis Park. There will be live demonstrations by the BPD K9 unit, games for the kids, food trucks, beer and wine, vendors, activities for pets, and raffle and auction items. This is a kid- and pet-friendly event.
Boise’s Zoo Kitchen Tour Wednesday, June 28
your own pinhole projector from 2 to 3 on July 5; contact Morgan Ackley at mackley@mld.org or call 884-2616.
Moxie Club
Saturdays – Starting July 1
Moxie Club is a social meet-up group for teens and adults with Aspergers or who are on the autism spectrum. The group meets once a month on Saturdays from 1 to 3 p.m. at Awakenings Coffeehouse at 10650 W. Overland in Boise. Meetings for upcoming months will be on July 1, August 5 and September 2. The goal of the club is to create a welcoming environment where members can make friends with people who “get” them. Friends and family are also welcome. For more information, call 514-5104.
Family Golf Month Month of July
July is Family Golf Month at Ridgecrest Golf Club in Nampa. July 1-31, kids get a large bucket of range balls for $3 (limit one per day); July 9-15, there will be discounted green fees for kids 17 and under. There will also be discounted fees for adults with a child under 18 on the Ridgecrest Golf Club Executive 9. Go to ridgecrestgolf.com or call 468-5888.
Hope Float
Fun for everyone, including live music and lawn games, will be part of the Idaho Botanical Garden’s Grow the Garden Party annual fundraiser from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, June 23. Go to idahobotanicalgarden.org for ticket and other information.
Join the Nampa Recreation Department as it partners with Zoo Boise for a behind-the-scenes tour of the zoo’s kitchen from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 28, with departure and return at the Nampa Rec Center. Attendees will learn how the animals’ food is prepared and the dietary guidelines that must be followed. Then, people will be free to tour the zoo. Cost for the trip is $20. Pack a lunch or bring money to eat at the zoo’s cafe. Go to nampaparksandrecreation. org.
Family Slide Nights
Ride Sun Valley Bike Festival
July 7–9
Families may enjoy unlimited access to water attractions as the sun sets at Roaring Springs during Friday and Saturday Family Slide Nights from 6 to 10 p.m. June 23 through August 26. Go to roaringsprings.com.
The seventh annual Ride Sun Valley Bike Festival, billed as “The Best Festival on Two Wheels,” is set for June 29-July 1. Visitors may participate in the bike riding events or just kick back and watch them while enjoying everything Sun Valley has to offer. Along with the fun of “all things cycling,” the festival will feature live music, bike clinics, demonstrations, and shuttle rides. Learn more at ridesunvalley.com.
Grow the Garden Party Friday, June 23
June 23–August 26
“Rocks to Products” Saturday, June 24
A “Rocks to Products” workshop at the Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology will explore the journey from raw material to rock-based end products. The workshop, which will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 24, at the museum on Old Penitentiary Road, will interest children in grades 4 and above. Activities will include volcano making, fossil digging, gold panning and more. Cost will be $10 per child. Advance sign-ups are required by June 21. Call Eliza at 571-5720. Go to idahomuseum.org for more information.
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June 29–July 1
Solar Eclipse: Build a Solar System Saturday, July 1
On Monday, August 21, a partial solar eclipse will be viewable from Meridian. Come learn about the solar system by making your own model from 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 1, at the Silverstone branch of the Meridian library. Children, teens and adults are welcome. For more information, contact Trisha Mick at trisha@mld.org or 8842616. Also, to view the eclipse you can make
Wednesday, July 5
200 Boys & Girls Club members will float around the Endless River from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 5, to kick off the 16th Annual Great Dolphin Dunk. Adopt dolphins at the Roaring Springs ticket booth or go to www. adaclubs.org/dolphindunk/.
Treasure Valley Comic Con The Treasure Valley Comic Con will be held at the Nampa Civic Center on the following days and times: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, July 7; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, July 8; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 9. This event for comic and pop culture fans will feature a variety of actors, comic artists, authors, and gaming and cosplay celebrities. For more information, go to treasurevalleycomiccon.com.
Free Vacation Bible School July 10–13
Cross of Christ Lutheran Church, 11655 W. McMillan Rd. in Boise, will hold a free Vacation Bible School for children ages 3 through 6th grade from 9 a.m. to noon July 10-13. “Mighty Fortress VBS” is a victory celebration where children will learn about the power of God and the victory we have through Jesus. Space is limited, and registration is required by Monday, July 3. Register online at cocboise.org.
Idaho Family Magazine | JUNE 2017 15
Kids are individuals, too
Purposefully interact with children and even time playing video games with them. She told us she was seething inside at the young man’s “audacity” to advise her on how very day, our kids — no matter how to be a parent, but there was something in that small — are gaining knowledge that exchange that stayed with her. Over the followbuilds upon who they are, just like ing days as she pondered his words, she says they will do the rest of their lives. Unfortushe found a new perspective. “This young man nately, too many parents let those moments slip cared enough about my children and family to past, missing many opportunities to deepen say something,” she stated. “He knows noththeir relationships with their children as indiing about how our family functions and he saw viduals. something out of context, but it raised a red Complicating the problem, as a society we flag for him and he said something. And, his have developed the strange habit of treatadvice was actually spot-on!” ing kids as a sub-species for 17 years, and Perhaps one of the largest obstacles to conthen BAM — on their 18th birthday our kids necting with our children is our struggle in balDaniel Bobinski suddenly become real people. It’s like, “Taancing efficiency with effectiveness. Those who da! You’re 18 now. Welcome to personhood. are familiar with Stephen Covey’s “The Seven Enjoy!” Habits of Highly Effective People” will recall that efficiency has A child’s transition to independence is necessary, but often to do with time — getting things done quickly — and effectivedifficult. What if we did things differently with our kids to ness has to do with getting things done right. Think of it this make the transition easier? What if we built relationships with way: You’re driving along and the rear tire on the driver’s side our children in ways that reinforced their individualism while of your car goes flat. You stop the car, and in record time, you strengthening our relationships with them at the same time? break out the spare and change the rear tire on the passenger I credit my wife for reinforcing this philosophy within me, side. This silly example illustrates the difference. You were efbecause it’s a wonder to watch her interact with children (I’m ficient by changing the tire in record time, but you were ineffectalking both small kids and teens). We can walk up to a group tive because you changed the wrong tire. of adults who have younger children with them, but the kids I know that I can be guilty of striving for efficiency in my are essentially being ignored. We watch as they come up to conversations with kids and teens. When I think about it, too their parents to share an insight they just gained or some expe- often I’m like those parents who nod and then send the kids off rience that made them go “wow,” and the parents will offer a so I can have a conversation with my fellow adults. placating nod and say something like, “That’s nice — now run It’s efficient, but it’s not effective. along and play.” By watching the kids closely, I often see a brief When I think about the ripple effects of such behavior, I twinge of disappointment on their faces, but then they dutifully realize it can also be costly. Those “efficient” conversations can run off and experience more from which to learn. create missing or weak threads in the tapestry of family unity. Enter my wife. I’ve seen her sit down in such gatherings and We parents don’t need to have all the answers. We don’t before long, all the kids are coming to her — and not their have to be right all the time, and we certainly shouldn’t strive own parents — to share their discoveries. Why? Because she for efficient conversations in which we parents are deciding engages them in real conversation. She truly listens to them, everything. As I’m learning by watching my wife, kids become striving to understand their thoughts and feelings, and asking more comfortable and confident in their own skin when we them questions that help them connect the dots in their learnhave purposeful, intentional conversations with them that focus ing. She engages them as the real people they are, not burdenon how they are perceiving and processing the world around some rug rats. them. Grandparents seem to understand this more than The way my wife engages people as individuals is not limited parents, but no matter what our age, we are (hopefully) always to small children. She interacts this way with teens and adults, gaining knowledge on a daily basis — and helping our kids do too. the same. This idea of interacting more purposefully with our kids was In summary, our kids’ brains don’t suddenly turn on when recently illustrated in something that happened to a friend of they hit age 18 — they are individuals from day one. And I ours. This woman has two teenage boys, and while accompathink we adults can help children grow into confident adults by nying them to an event they wanted to attend, she gave one of valuing (and sometimes respectfully challenging) their thoughts, the boys an instruction to go do something. After her young feelings, and the learning they experience along the way. Truly teen went off to do it, a man in his early 20’s who was standlistening and truly engaging them, striving for relationship, not ing nearby asked our friend if she always told her boys what to efficiency. n do. Our friend said she rolled her eyes a bit, slightly offended that someone in his early 20’s would be questioning how she Daniel Bobinski, M.Ed. is the CEO of Workplace-Excellence.com, parents her kids. She was tired and under a lot of stress at the helping teams and individuals learn how to use Emotional Intelligence. time, but she bit her tongue and listened while the man sugHe’s also a homeschooling dad, a best-selling author, and a popular gested that she spend more time playing with her young teens, speaker at conferences and retreats. Reach him at dan@workplace-exsuch as more time watching and discussing movies with them, cellence.com or (208) 375-7606. By Daniel Bobinski
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16 JUNE 2017 | Idaho Family Magazine
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KIDS first!
Guardians sequel ‘better than original’ By Ranny Levy
Introduction
Set to the backdrop of “Awesome Mixtape #2,” Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 continues the team’s adventures as they traverse the outer reaches of the cosmos. The Guardians must fight to keep their newfound family together as they unravel the mysteries of Peter Quill’s true parentage. Old foes become new allies and fan-favorite characters from the classic comics will come to our heroes’ aid as the Marvel cinematic universe continues to expand.
Review by Clayton, age 17
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is more thrilling and hilarious than its predecessor. It is an action-packed, sci-fi adventure about a group of intergalactic criminals who are tasked to work together to save the universe. Chris Pratt again stars as Peter Quill, aka Star Lord. The rest of the cast follows suit: Zoe Saldana as Gamora, Dave Bautista as Drax, Vin Diesel as the voice of Groot, and Bradley Cooper as the voice of Rocket. The film starts out with the classic ‘70s song “Brandi” by Looking Glass as we see two young people driving down the highway, very much in love. We later learn that this is the backstory of Peter’s conception and is foreshadowing the main storyline of the film. The movie jumps 34 years and Peter is
now Star Lord, captain of a band of reformed outlaws. The group is hired to guard the uber batteries of the Sovereign planet. Upon leaving, Rocket steals some of the batteries and a space battle ensues. Star Lord and his crew are shot down and make an emergency landing on a nearby planet. Before landing, they notice a mysterious spaceship, which takes out the entire Sovereign fleet pursuing them. The rest of the film is an emotional, actionpacked adventure, having to do with this mysterious personage. There are lots of battles between different factions in this crazy sci-fi, fantasy universe. The movie has lots of lively and entertaining scenes. My favorite is when Rocket Raccoon uses traps to his advantage to defeat an incoming horde of ravagers. Every scene with Drax is terrific because he has a different philosophy of life and has the most infectious laugh of any character in any movie, ever. I also love how Peter is obsessed with ‘80s pop culture. He references it all the time, but his companions never understand him, because they didn’t grow up on Earth. I especially love how ‘80s music is used to evoke nostalgia from Peter’s childhood, making for a terrific oldies soundtrack. Overall, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is phenomenal and full of whimsical jokes that don’t get old. It is a perfect family adventure that is suitable for ages 10 to 18. Parents and grandparents will even get a kick out of it. I rate this film 4 out of 5 stars for its engaging humor and captivating action.n
Chris Pratt plays Peter Quill, aka Star Lord, in the movie Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. (Photo courtesy of Marvel Cinematic Universe)
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Idaho Family Magazine | JUNE 2017 17
Manic Mothering
Why your kid should travel without you the watchful eye of adults, she’ll need to take on more responsibility. Letting her test her mettle in this area, maybe making mistakes, he first time we sent our children on can show her the benefits of staying organized. a trip without us (or any other relaThey’ll learn to pay attention – Our tive), it was to a weeklong camp near a oldest has lived in the same house since he was mountain lake. Our sons were 10 and 7 years old. 3 years old but never learned any more than Some were surprised we’d let our younger the name of our street until he began driving kid go, but he was ready for an age-appropriand navigating on his own. If you’re dragate camp program like this. Both boys had the ging your kid along on your adventures, he’ll times of their lives and returned to us scabbed, likely rely on your leading him. While travelsunburned and smiling, the younger one with ing without you, he’ll learn to read maps and a suitcase full of clean clothes. He hadn’t arrival/departure displays, to take stock of his changed the entire week. (I know. Yuck.) surroundings and orient himself. These are We learned about both boys that week, that valuable skills, learned by necessity. Beth Markley they were resilient, behaved well without us They’ll become stronger – Travel can around, and could keep track of their own be stressful. Will you make your connection? things. And they learned about themselves, experiencing the Sleep through your alarm? Where’s your luggage? When our world on their own, trying new things, making friends, and kids travel with us, they don’t sweat details. But anyone who enjoying plenty of unfettered kid time (in the care, of course, wants to live independently eventually has to learn to deal of trained camp counselors). They’ve returned to camp nearly with anxiety. Exposure to normal stress helps build resilience. every year since. Talking to your child before a trip about strategies to deal While we travel as a family on a regular basis, our kids still with stress (remaining calm, breathing, finding a helpful adult pursue their own adventures. The older one is nearly 18 and to answer questions) can help her build an arsenal of coping on a yearlong exchange in Denmark. The younger just remechanisms she’ll be able to draw on for life. turned from a school-organized trip to Washington, D.C. and They’ll build a resume – Whether it’s employment or New York (he changes clothes daily now). college admissions, in today’s competitive world, global experiWhether it’s camps, church missions, school trips, or shortence (or even that provided by interstate travel) is always a or long-term foreign exchanges, if you’ve ever sent your kid plus. Cross-cultural experiences or service travel indicate a packing without you, you likely did him or her a huge favor. level of maturity that employers and admissions offices find For everyone from the mild-mannered soul to the enthusiattractive and make an applicant stand out. astic adventurer, travel can be a tremendous growth experiThey’ll learn how to handle money – Kids old enough ence. Exposure to new and often complex situations expands to travel should shoulder some of the expense. A parent can the brain, builds confidence and creativity, compassion and help her child put together a budget and a plan to pay for part empathy. of her trip. And don’t forget pocket change. A student dolFor young people, those benefits are enhanced. For those ing out her own hard-earned scratch gains perspective on the traveling sans parents, the impact can be even more profound. value of money. While traveling, she may scrutinize her spendFor the record, I’m not talking about sending your minor ing decisions, and, realizing she could run out of cash before backpacking solo across Europe. There are structured opporshe’s home, make different choices on souvenirs and snacks. tunities for almost every age that are developmentally approFocusing on long-term goals can encourage good priate and safe. And there as many reasons parents might want decision-making – Okay, many students mature enough to to encourage their kids to travel, as there are opportunities for travel aren’t going to be ones who have to strive to stay away them to do so: from the party scene, but for some, the carrot of a pending They’ll develop self-confidence – There is nothing like trip can be a good long-term motivator to choose the straight immersing yourself in a new situation — where the surroundand narrow path. The teen years are rife with opportunities to ings, people, smells, and language are all unfamiliar — to build take risks, and sometimes it’s good to encourage good decisioncharacter. Exposing ourselves to unfamiliar surroundings puts making with a little incentive. every sense on alert, inspires vulnerability, even when the overFinally, you’ll get the hang of having them away from you all experience is ultimately satisfying and fun. Moving through — I am astonished at the parents who engage in the pointless these situations builds resilience, patience and confidence at gnashing of teeth when their kids are away. Eventually, if we any age. do our job right, we will all send our little birds from the nest. They’ll learn to be organized – How often do you wonIt is surely helpful for us as parents to have confidence in our der if your kid would lose her head if it weren’t screwed on? children’s ability to be on their own, as well as in our ability to The responsibility for keeping track of boarding passes and sleep at night without them under our roof. n luggage, remembering to scan hotel rooms before check-out, keeping track of personal property when disembarking a train Beth Markley is a humor writer and fundraising consultant who lives in Boise with her husband and two sons. She now writes regularly on her all generally fall on a parent’s shoulders during family trips, new website, MidlifeSentence.com (Dispatches from the Crossroads of but what about when she’s with a group? She may be in the ‘Been There Done That’ and ‘Oughta Know Better’). care of chaperones, but when she’s one of a crew, even under By Beth Markley
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18 JUNE 2017 | Idaho Family Magazine
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The fear effect
When you yell, children can’t hear you any further communication is impossible. Vapor locking also occurs when an angry parent asks, “Why did you (hit your sister)?” The hen children (or adults for that answer to why is “I don’t know,” or “because.” matter) are afraid, fear cuts off Instead, ask, “What was going on for you their ability to think and reason. when you made the choice to (hit your sister)?” When you comprehend that fact, it will become It is best to have this conversation when you are clear to you why a child continues to misbehave not foaming at the mouth. Sometimes the parwhen a parent screams at him/her, or swats the ent needs to go to time out to calm down. It is child in public. When a child is afraid, fear cuts wise to assume there are always two sides to any off that child’s ability to think and reason. story and to present the question that way, such Story: Lots of people were standing in line to as, “When you chose to hit your sister, can you board a boat returning from Avalon to Newtell me what was happening from your point of port Beach, in California. One couple held two view?” elderly dogs on leashes. Both dogs were exAs frustrating as children can be, it is best to tremely friendly so everyone around them was communicate with them without being angry, Sandy McDaniel petting the tail-wagging creatures. Suddenly, disappointed or shocked. Being calm allows the a woman grabbed the arm of her 7-year-old message to get through to the children who are trying to stay son and screamed savagely, “What are you doing?” Her voice out of trouble and (believe it or not) please you. n was loud enough to be heard a mile away. Everyone stopped talking and looked at the red-faced adult verbally assaulting the For 54 years, Sandy has been an international speaker and recognized trembling boy. authority on families and children. Author of five books, columnist, “I’ve told you a million times not to pet a strange dog! Those founder of parentingsos.com, she is a resident of Meridian and loves dogs don’t know you! What if they bit you? What if they killed spending time with her three Idaho grandchicks. Semi-retired, she speaks you? I can’t believe you would be so stupid to do something like to schools, churches, and MOPS groups and provides parent coaching that!” she yelled. sessions in person and on the phone. The boy, mortified at being the center of negative attention, started to cry. “If you make a fuss or cry,” the mother snarled, “I will spank you!” The boy hung his head. When the mother wasn’t looking, he kicked her suitcase. Fear of loud noises is a primal fear, which means it is inherent in us, not necessary to learn. Most people jump in response to a loud noise. The minute the mother screamed at him, the boy vapor locked (which is my term for froze or went numb.) The child, therefore, did not hear one word the mother screamed at him. Inside of him, the anger-resentment-revenge cycle was enhanced from being humiliated and shamed in public. The child would have heard the mother had she squatted down and said, “I like that you love animals and it is best to ask the owner if it is safe to pet a dog before you do it.” Fear cuts off your ability to think and reason. When you, as a parent, rush into a room and scream “What are you doing?” the children vapor lock. In order to prevent getting in more trouble, they lie, blame a sibling or start to cry. If the children knew about fear cutting off a person’s ability to think, they would likely say, “You just came in here and scared us to pieces. We vapor locked, so we cannot find that answer inside of us.” You do not need two problems for each problem that occurs. Another place to pay attention to giving a child cause to vapor lock is when you are helping him/her with homework. I recommend that children do a half hour of schoolwork three days a week during summer, to keep their skills in tact. Your brain may not work the same way your child’s brain works. If this is true, there may be a great deal of frustration helping with homework. You explain something clearly and the child doesn’t get it. You re-explain it to no avail. Feeling totally frustrated, you change to your impatient tone of voice, accented by a heavy sigh. Once the child becomes afraid and vapor locks, By Sandy Spurgeon McDaniel
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Idaho Family Magazine | JUNE 2017 19
Family festival fun
Plan ahead for the best experience
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By Sara Marchessault ummer is often celebrated as the time for family vacations and trips to the beach. There’s another reason to celebrate summer: it’s festival season! Festivals can be found all over the country, in communities big and small, they are often free, and by the nature of a festival, there’s usually lots to do. A festival can be a great opportunity to expose your kids to arts and culture, music, or even to celebrate industries and specialties that make your community special. For example, Plant City, Florida produces massive amounts of strawberries that are distributed all over the country. Every year, they host a strawberry festival — not unlike Emmett, Idaho’s Cherry Festival. How can you take advantage of a festival as a family-fun event? Check out this festival checklist. • Confirm the festival is family-friendly. This is easily done by visiting the festival website or social media page before you go. Take note of the events the festival has for kids and check the scheduled times for those events. The kids’ schedule can be the starting point of your festival adventure. • Is it ticketed or free? Plan accordingly for an event that requires tickets. • Pack up and get ready for a fun day. Can you bring a blanket? Water bottles? Snacks? A festival can be so much more enjoyable when you can plan for taking breaks in the day. Whether
20 JUNE 2017 | Idaho Family Magazine
it’s to put your blanket down to sit and listen to music or for a picnic in the park, bringing your own snacks and food can ensure the members of your family have enough energy to keep enjoying the festivities. • Bring other essentials. Hats and sunscreen are must-haves. Bug repellent might be necessary too, depending on where you are. What if you arrive and there’s a splash pad or place to get wet? Throw a change of clothes and a couple of towels in the back of the car before you leave home. They’ll be there if you need them. Cash is a good idea too. Festivals often have face-paint or balloon artists to attract kids. They offer their services for a small fee or even just for tips. • Look for festivals with music in the outside and open. Or free music. When the music is free, you can expect to see a higher number of families in attendance. Music is so much fun when the kids can run and dance. It’s a nice time for parents to relax too. You can take advantage of the festivals in your state this summer by planning ahead, and when you get there, enjoying quality family time. (See the festivals list in this edition of Idaho Family.) n Sara Marchessault is a writer, journal designer, and teacher. Her latest book, “Beyond Pen & Paper: 33 Experiments in Journaling,” gives readers ideas for getting the benefits of journal writing beyond the habit of conventional journaling. Sara and her family moved twice in one year, keeping them all just a little busier than usual. Learn more about her work at saramarchessault.com.
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SUMMER Events, Festivals & Things To Do Advertisers in this guide are listed in bold.
June Events
Idaho Shakespeare Festival Amphitheater & Reserve-Boise Running currently through October Wait Until Dark, Hamlet, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Hound of the Baskervilles Murphy Outpost Days Murphy June 3-4 Includes a cattle drive, Kids Corner and petting zoo, country dancing, an auction, lost arts display and more owyheemuseum.org Old Fort Boise Days Parma June 7-10 Includes a parade; craft, art & quilt shows; a car & motorcycle show; a carnival; cow pie bingo and much more oldfortboisedays.com Eagle Rodeo Eagle June 8-10 PRCA rodeo invites everyone to come meet the cowboys and cowgirls at the After Rodeo Party; Family Slack Night, free to the public, is June 7. Rodeo proceeds help the community eaglerodeo.com World Village Festival Capitol Park-Boise June 9-11 A celebration of Idaho’s cultural diversity, with music, dance, art and food; free to the public worldvillagefestival.com Idaho Fish & Game Free Fishing Day June 10
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All anglers may fish Idaho’s waters without a license; first-timers are invited to learn to fish at various free events at local fishing sites throughout the state idfg.idaho.gov Savor Idaho Idaho Botanical Gardens-Boise June 11 Features an array of wine and food vendors, with each guest receiving a commemorative wine glass savoridaho.org Emmett Cherry Festival Emmett June 14-17 83rd annual festival highlighted by concerts and a carnival in celebration of the annual cherry harvest emmettcherryfestival.com Great Garden Escape Idaho Botanical Garden-Boise June 15-September 14 Every Thursday evening, great music, food and drink highlight this annual summer night event idahobotanicalgarden.org Sun Valley Brewfest Ketchum June 17 4th annual festival hosted by the Ketchum-Sun Valley Rotary, all proceeds go to charities; the event is familyfriendly sunvalleybrewfest.com Meridian Dairy Days Meridian June 22-24 88th annual celebration marked by a parade, carnival, food, fireworks, entertainment and the crowning of a dairy princess dairydays.org
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SUMMER
Events, Festivals & Things To Do
National Oldtime Fiddlers Contest & Festival Weiser June 14-24 Old-time music competition will feature a parade along with all the music fiddlecontest.org Daniel Dopps Memorial Ram PRCA Rodeo Optimist Park Arena-Mountain Home June 23-24 This nonprofit rodeo helps raise money for charities in Mountain Home, Elmore County and the State of Idaho; a 5K fun run is also scheduled 3drodeo.org Gold Dust Rodeo Idaho City June 23-24 13th annual event seeks to preserve the city’s western heritage through the sport of rodeo; ranch bronc riding has been added to the Main Rodeo golddustrodeo.com Boise Music Festival Expo Idaho-Boise June 24 All day, family-friendly festival features renowned musical acts, as well as carnival rides and more; this year’s lineup includes Flo Rida, The Band Perry, Sean Kingston, Hey Violet, and Austin Mahone boisemusicfestival.com Great American Backyard Campout Various sites June 24 Goal set to reach 100,000+ people across the U.S. camping out to benefit wildlife conservation https://www.punchbowl.com/holidays/great-americanbackyard-campout Art & Wine Festival Terrace Lakes Resort-Garden Valley June 24-25 More than 70 vendors participate in the annual summer festival, which is a perfect day trip from the Boise area, traveling along the Payette River Scenic Byway; there will be music, food, and arts & crafts terracelakes.com/-wine-and-art-festival Treasure Valley God and Country Family Festival Ford Idaho Center-Nampa June 28 51st anniversary, with Christian bands, military appreciation, civic awards, food, fellowship and fireworks godandcountryfestival.com
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Starlight Mountain Theatre Garden Valley Now through September 2 Marking 18 years of entertainment, the 2017 season will include Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Beauty and the Beast, Guys and Dolls, Sugar: the Some Like It Hot Musical, Little Shop of Horrors, and Always...Patsy Cline starlightmt.com
July Events
Eagle Fun Days Eagle July 7-8 Annual event features a Family Fun Night from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday at Eagle City Hall and all-day excitement in downtown Eagle on Saturday cityofeagle.org/fundays or eaglechamber.com/eaglefundays Lavender Merchant Lavender Festival Kuna July 8-9 Lunch, desserts, lavender products and u-pick bouquets at 2871 Stroebel Road thelavendermerchant.net Twilight Criterium Boise July 15 Fast-paced cycling race in the heart of downtown Boise; kids’ cycling event also featured boisetwilightcriterium.com McCall Music Society SummerFest McCall July 16-22 Week-long festival of classical chamber music and more, held at several venues in and around McCall mccallmusicsociety.org Snake River Stampede Ford Idaho Center-Nampa July 18-22 103rd annual rodeo is one of the top 10 professional rodeos in the country — “This Ain’t Their First Rodeo” snakeriverstampede.com Canyon County Fair Caldwell July 27-30 There will be exhibits, a carnival, entertainment and lots of food canyoncountyfair.org
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SUMMER
Events, Festivals & Things To Do
Mountain Home Country Music Festival Pine July 28-30 Headliners include Keith Urban, Luke Bryan, Chris Stapleton and more mountainhomefestival.com
August Events
Yellow Pine Music & Harmonica Festival Yellow Pine August 4-6 28th annual musical event in a “sleepy hamlet” in the beautiful mountains of the Idaho backcountry; an approximately 4½-hour drive from Boise, the area offers lodging and camping sites yellowpinefestival.org Sun Valley Center Arts & Crafts Festival Atkinson Park-Ketchum August 11-13 49th annual exhibit of handmade works by artists from throughout the country; also includes live music, food vendors and a children’s activity area sunvalleycenter.org/arts-crafts-festival Nampa Festival of the Arts Lakeview Park-Nampa August 12-13 31st annual celebration of the creative spirit of a diverse community, the event features roughly 200 artisans and draws more than 18,000 attendees; also includes live entertainment, food concessions and free activities for kids nampaparksandrecreation.org
bannockcountybluegrassfestival.com Warbird Roundup Warhawk Air Museum-Nampa August 26-27 Amazing aerial events for the whole family to enjoy warhawkairmuseum.org Wagon Days Ketchum August 31-September 4 60th anniversary of the days before railroads or automobiles reached town; includes a non-motorized parade, pancake breakfast, bareback riding demonstrations, arts and crafts, and more wagondays.org
September Events Air Force Appreciation Day Mountain Home Date TBD The City of Mountain Home expresses its appreciation for Mountain Home Air Force Base by bringing people together for a parade, eats, treats and music mountainhomechamber.com Art in the Park Julia Davis Park-Boise September 8-10 One of the city’s premier cultural events, highlighting the works of artists and craftspeople and including entertainment, food and kids’ activities boiseartmuseum.org
Caldwell Night Rodeo Caldwell August 15-19 83rd annual event includes pre-rodeo events, family events such as YMCA Family Night, a Buckaroo Breakfast and more caldwellnightrodeo.com
Lumberjack Days Orofino September 14-17 Festivities include a carnival, parade, auction, log sawing and log rolling contests; Orofino is an approximately 5-hour drive from Boise orofinolumberjackdays.org
Western Idaho Fair Expo Idaho-Boise August 18-27 Concerts, carnival rides, all kinds of food booths and exhibits, plus much more; headliners include Sawyer Brown and Josh Turner sharemyfair.com
Hyde Park Street Fair Camels Back Park-Boise’s North End September 15-17 Annual street fair includes vendors, kids’ activities, live music, exotic foods, community entertainers, and a wine garden northendboise.org
Bannock County Bluegrass Festival Pocatello August 18-20 14th annual festival of music features fiddle, banjo, acoustic guitar and mandolin
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FitOneBoise Boise Race Day September 23 Healthy Living Expo September 21-22 Move For Fun, Get Fit For Life. FitOneBoise.org
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