New Mexico Kids! Magazine July/August

Albuquerque

What’s in this issue for you!

July/August 2023

REGULAR FEATURES

Albuqerque Kids! Calendar pg 18

Santa Fe Kids! Calendar pg 22

Let’s Read! pg 24

Young Scientist pg 26

Guest Columns pg 28, 29

Kids’ Crossword pg 32

Let’s Draw pg 33

Let’s Party pg 33

Cover Story

Hiya! My name is Solara, and I am 9 years old. I moved from Tampa, Florida to Albuquerque last August with my mom, dad, little brothers and fur sister. I’m homeschooled and I like to draw, paint, play games and rollerblade. I really love to rollerblade at Skate-O-Mania since one of my favorite shows, “Stranger Things,” was filmed there. My favorite color is green and my favorite drink is bubble tea. My dog is named Boba too because her curls look like boba/tapioca pearls and her fur is black. I’m also learning piano now, so who knows what I’ll learn next? I made my painting right before we left Florida. I was inspired by my mom because I made a lot of jellyfish sketches and drawings around that time, and she said to try and make a painting. I learned how to make sketches with the help of Mrs. Jackson, my art teacher in Florida, and sometimes if I feel sad, I paint. I was excited that I was going to see new places when I made this, but I was sad to leave too. Since that painting, I’ve made at least 10 more. If you feel sad, angry or have any feelings that feel overwhelming (or “too big” like we tell my little brothers) maybe you should try to draw or paint!

If you would like to submit art to be considered for a New Mexico Kids! cover, please email a copy to kids@newmexico-kids.com or send a snapshot of the work to New Mexico Kids!, 9100 Galaxia Way NE, Alb. NM 87111. Don’t forget to include your phone number!

SUBSCRIPTIONS to

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Vol. 32 No. 4

STORIES & SPECIAL FEATURES

Reaching For The Sky … And So Far

Beyond pg 8

The Albuquerque Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen

Inspires and Teaches Future Pilots

Petroglyphs pg 12

Hike the National Monument for Family Fun

BUGarium pg 14

Exhibit Offers Secret Weapon to Fight Bug Fears

Thinking Outside the Lunchbox pg 16

HelpingYour Kids Develop Healthy Food Habits

DEADLINES for the September/October 2023 issue are July 21 for Editorial, August 11 for the Afterschool Activities Directory and August 16 for ads, classifieds and calendar.

Publisher: Plevin Kids Inc.

Editor/Advertising: Nancy Plevin, kids@newmexico-kids.com, 505797-2708

Distribution/Advertising: Josh Plevin, joshplevin@comcast.net, 505-800-3309

Calendar Editor: Francine Hopper, nmkidscal@gmail.com

Proofreader: Deborah Begel, begel@windstream.net

Cover Design: Pat Carr of Carr Imaging, 880-8124

New Mexico Kids! is published bimonthly by Plevin Kids Inc., 9100 Galaxia Way NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111. Phone 505-797-2708. Email kids@newmexico-kids.com. Copyright 2023/2024 by Plevin Kids Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Paid advertisements are not an endorsement by New Mexico Kids! About 30,000 copies are distributed in New Mexico at about 400 locations.

Kit, 7

Reaching For The Sky … And So Far Beyond The Albuquerque Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen Inspires and Teaches Future Pilots

By EFRAIN VILLA

Picnicking, swimming and bike riding are wonderful summertime activities for young children, but piloting a multimillion-dollar airplane thousands of feet above the New Mexican landscape is one of the most ageappropriate activities to add to that list, according to retired Lt. Col. Alex Carothers. He emphasizes that teaching children to shoot for the stars is especially important in underserved communities.

Carothers’ passion for all things aviation and helping young people reach unimaginable heights, figuratively and literally, is immediately evident when he speaks about the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., Albuquerque chapter, which he heads. Known as the Maj. Gen. Lloyd W. "Fig" Newton Chapter, the local group is part of the national organization that was founded to honor and preserve the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, a

ours wake up and start thinking about on their own.

“Through our local Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. chapter," he continues, "we expose kids to possibilities they didn’t know existed and we get them to do the impossible. We give them opportunities to see themselves with wings on their chests or as air traffic controllers, aircraft mechanics, astronauts and scientists. Our people just don't typically see that. They see sports all the time, and I'm the first to tell people I was a 96-mile-anhour fastball dunking athlete, but an athlete who also flies airplanes. I can't imagine a life without having been to 127 countries and flown all over the world. I want kids to see that because many don't.”

Carothers believes that exposure to different professions and fields of study at an early age can broaden horizons in profound ways that break generational cycles of economic, social and psychological distress.

“When I was at the academy and learning psychology, we learned that we're all born into a box,” says Carothers. “Your box is as big as your parents’ box. If your parents’ box is small, so is yours. It takes somebody like us, and the Tuskegee Airmen’s legacy, to come and tear those small walls down and show them this really gigantic box that aviation can give them. The Tuskegee Airmen overcame two wars: prejudice and World War II. They won both of them. The people who volunteer with our programs feel we have to do this type of service for other generations, otherwise we dishonor that legacy.”

during World War II.

Despite facing discrimination and segregation in the military and in society at large, the Tuskegee Airmen distinguished themselves with their bravery and skill in combat. After the war, the Tuskegee Airmen continued to fight for civil rights and equality, and their legacy has had a lasting impact on the United States military and society as a whole. In 1948, President Harry Truman signed an executive order desegregating the armed forces, in part due to the advocacy efforts of the Tuskegee Airmen and other civil rights activists.

“I met the Tuskegee Airmen when I was a kid,” says Carothers. “They were part of the reason that I went to the Air Force Academy and went to pilot training. A career in aviation is not something that faces like

The Albuquerque chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen provides various opportunities for young people in the community to learn about aviation and STEM fields, meet with professionals in these industries, and gain hands-on experience with aviation equipment and technology. These activities are carried out through no-cost educational programs and workshops, including aviation camps, career fairs and mentoring programs. The organization also helps connect youth to scholarships and grants for students pursuing degrees in aviation and STEM fields, while at the same time upholding the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen.

The connection to overcoming social inequality is at the heart of the organization’s mission. Historically, women and people of color have been underrepresented in aviation and STEM fields, and promoting these disciplines to young people from diverse backgrounds can help to break down historical social barriers and create greater opportunities for all. While the Tuskegee Airmen organization was founded to honor and preserve the legacy of African American military personnel, the organization's mission is also to inspire and motivate all young people

continued on page 10

Lt. Col. Alex Carothers poses with members of the 2022 Maj. Gen. Lloyd W. "Fig" Newton Aviation Camp. Courtesy Photos.

Trenton Nalls, 12, explores the flight deck of an old aircraft used for training at the Albuquerque Sunport.

Vidhi Shethia, 13, after flying a Cessna 172 at camp graduation.

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to pursue careers in aviation and STEM fields, regardless of their background or ethnicity.

While there certainly are many professions outside of aviation that can offer good pay, fulfillment and job security, the Albuquerque chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. focuses on aviation and STEM fields because, in addition to providing a wide range of exciting and rewarding career opportunities from piloting planes and designing aircraft to developing new technologies and exploring space, these fields also are constantly evolving and advancing, offering endless possibilities for innovation and discovery. And aviation and STEM fields are crucial to the continued growth and success of the global economy and sustainability efforts. These industries drive innovation, create jobs and help to solve some of the world's most pressing challenges, from climate change to healthcare.

pilot a real airplane a full decade before being eligible to vote. Although it might be terrifying for a parent to imagine their young child zipping above the earth, Carothers is quick to point out the impeccable safety record of the chapter’s activities.

“I do a lot of prepping of the parents through the parent form and orientations,” says Carothers. “That gives parents the opportunity to meet me and my staff and ask questions, and I introduce them to my 17year-old son who has participated in the programs and is now one of the youngest private pilots. I've used my sons, both of them, to show this can be done safely and that I myself trust these camps with my own children. All of us running the camps have some affiliations in the military, so we're really regimented about things. The same with camps and the dorms and things like that. If a kid opens the door to the apartment at two in the morning, there's one of my staff members on the other side of that door.”

For parents or children who might feel intimidated by the prospect of operating aviation equipment or being in a new setting, Carothers believes fear should not be a deterrent. “Young people tell me all the time, ‘I’m afraid of heights.’ I get to tell them that this 7,500-hour military fighter is also afraid of heights, and so what? Do not let your fears of the unknown stop you from experiencing a life you can’t imagine right now.”

Planning for the camps and carrying out the other functions of the chapter are year-round activities. Due to funding shortfalls, this summer the chapter will not host its space camp, but it has secured enough funding to host a five-day aviation camp that exposes young people ages 12 to 18 to everything aviation at Kirtland Air Force Base and in the local area. The chapter hopes to expand the program to pre-pandemic levels in future years.

Those of us who have aged out of the services the chapter provides can still participate by becoming volunteers, members or donors. Programming is always provided free of charge through the support of donors, grant-makers and volunteers. Currently, the chapter has many volunteer opportunities and membership vacancies to fill. For more information visit tai-albuquerque.org.

Shanen Cochrane, 12, celebrates after flying a Cesna 172.

Petroglyphs Hike the National Monument for Family Fun

By EFRAIN VILLA

It can be challenging for parents to appreciate a budding artist’s creations while scrubbing walls after a child is left momentarily alone with access to markers, crayons and inviting surfaces. But it might serve as a minor consolation that long before tidy adults were trying to limit artistry to coloring within lines on paper or splashing color on canvas and screens, we humans were expressing ourselves on pretty much every surface we encountered.

Drawing on walls has been a human pastime for almost as long as humans existed. According to some experts, the earliest art discovered on cave walls might date back more than 64,000 years. All this to say: Your young artist is following in a long tradition of artmaking, so maybe a bit of historical inspiration is just what your family needs to get back to appreciating art in unlikely spaces.

Prehistoric and historic rock carvings called “petroglyphs” were carved between about 1300 and the late 1680s on the basaltic boulders along the West Mesa escarpment. Some of the images seem familiar, such as birds, snakes, humans, stars and stairways. Others, such as spirals, have multiple interpretations. NPS photographs by Dale Pate (Geologic Resources Division).

In Albuquerque, we are fortunate to be able to admire the illustrations of ancient masters in an extensive archeological site right in the city’s backyard, even centuries after the indigenous artists who left their mark (in figurative and literal terms) walked these lands. On Albuquerque’s West Mesa, Petroglyph National Monument covers more than 7,200 acres of protected land and features more than 24,000 petroglyphs, carvings or drawings on volcanic rocks made by Native Americans and Spanish settlers centuries ago. In fact, the monument contains one of the largest and most important collections of ancient rock art in North America.

Although some archeologists believe the oldest petroglyphs at the park date back more than 3,000 years, it is estimated that about 90 percent of these petroglyphs were created between 1,300 AD and the end of the 17th century — a huge span of time that begins to explain the diversity in themes, styles and techniques.

One of the ways the petroglyphs were made was by using a stone chisel to chip away the rock’s dark varnish, formed by oxidation, and expose the lighter color underneath. Although the images the artists chose to depict varies, the animals, symbols and human figures help us understand the stories and traditions of the ancient people who lived in what we now know as the American Southwest. This heritage continues to be of profound significance to Native Americans and various communities throughout the world, which is one of the reasons why visiting the park today can be a deeply reflective experience for people of all ages.

In addition to the thousands of scattered petroglyphs, the monument is also home to a diverse range of plant and animal life, including several species of birds, lizards and rabbits. Some commonly spotted animals include coyotes, bobcats, snakes, prairie falcons and roadrunners. Most desert wildlife here is extremely shy, so visitors are asked to not disturb the local critters trying to go about their own business. Although instances are rare, some wildlife might become aggressive when

approached and some animals carry diseases that can make humans sick, which is why it is wise to view wildlife from a safe distance.

For children learning about geology, the park offers the opportunity to explore an area created by ferocious volcanic activity millions of years ago. The remnants of these eruptions shaped the permanent natural outline of what is now Albuquerque’s western horizon; the most recognizable features to residents of the city are the three volcanic cones peeking out of the desert mesa and collectively known as the Three Sisters. A good place for geological sleuthing is in the Volcanoes Day Use Area on the west side of the national monument. Trail maps can be picked up at the visitor center.

Although visitors can drive directly to the petroglyph viewing trails, it might be a good idea to begin at the visitor center, open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with the last entry at 4 p.m. Entrance is free. Visitor center parking is in a different area than parking for the petroglyph viewing trailheads. Although the center does not have a museum, rangers can advise visitors on how to get the most out of their visit based on physical comfort levels, party member ages and time limits. It

The most heavily visited and easily accessible petroglyphs in the monument are found in Boca Negra Canyon. The Boca Negra unit of the monument was established in 1973 as Indian Petroglyph State Park. Paved trails in Boca Negra Canyon provide opportunities for viewing petroglyphs, along with wayside signs that interpret images and their context. Photograph by user khlnmusa available at https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Boca_Negra_Canyon_in_the_Petroglyp _National_Monument.jpg.

tors can touch to experience the feel of these artworks. (Touching the petroglyphs on the trail can damage them.)

One popular activity is the Junior Ranger program, in which kids can earn a badge by completing a series of educational activities. The activity booklets are available online or at the visitor center. Depending on the time of year, there also are ranger-led programs for school groups that can be arranged. These programs may include hands-on activities like designing an original pictograph or petroglyph (on paper) and learning about the plants and animals that call the monument home. Upon completion, junior rangers get a badge. If the booklet is completed at home after a visit or simply as part of an off-site learning experience, the completed booklet can be emailed so a ranger can verify it and send an official badge. There also is a Senior Ranger booklet available at the visitor center, and adults receive a Senior Ranger pin upon its completion.

On the day of a family visit to the monument, it is a good idea to check the weather forecast and dress in layers, since weather on the desert mesa can change rapidly. Also, visitors should become familiar with the park’s rules and regulations, especially those relating to pets and children, such as the requirement that all children under the age of 12 be accompanied by an adult at all times. Although the park does not have food vendors, there are picnic tables, so families might want to pack snacks or a picnic. Visitors are reminded to be mindful of cleaning up all food scraps and packaging, since park maintenance resources are limited in this delicate habitat. Lastly, frequent water breaks are a good idea. It is easy to become dehydrated in the high desert’s arid climate, and parents should be aware of the limitations of little ones’ bodies, as well as their own.

Albuquerque

Na onally Accredited, 5 Star Licensed Call Today: 505­242­0557

Albuquerque/Rio Rancho

Exhibit Offers a Secret Weapon to Fight Bug Fears

By GWYNNE ANN UNRUH

I grew up on the East Coast in a stone colonial house built in the late 1700s in the middle of the woods near a small stream. The perfect habitat for a variety of bugs. My parents called the ones that were common in our home “thousand leggers” (centipedes) and “daddy longlegs” (arachnids that look like spiders with very long legs). The comical names helped me overcome a myriad of childhood fears about those bugs. Moving to New Mexico and a drier climate, I naively thought that I wouldn’t encounter as many bugs as I had back East. Was I wrong!

The thousand leg-

“It had just opened up to the public, and I did the fine tuning of the exhibit and continue to do that to this day. It’s a never-ending process with a large exhibit of the scope the BUGarium is,” Schaller said.

Schaller has been into bugs and nature as far back as he can remember. “I took after my dad; we've been collecting bugs together since I was 3 years old,” he said, adding that his mother wasn't ever really interested in them, but was always a good sport. “She was always happy to humor me and my dad. She put up with a lot,” he said.

Curly Haired Tarantula: If you are brave enough, you’ll have the opportunity to feed a tarantula during a BUGarium Rearing Lab private tour.

ed next to tarantulas

Behind the scenes is the Arthropod Rearing Lab, a one-of-a-kind nursery that ensures a constant and healthy supply of exotic creatures like spiders, beetles and butterflies for the BioPark. You can schedule an hourlong tour of the breeding facility to get up close and touch, feel and hold some of these bugs. The lab must produce thousands of fresh specimens for the public exhibits as most insects don’t live for more than a few days or months. Scientists at the lab also study the various habits of the different species and track physical development, diet, life cycle, environmental conditions and mating and other social traits.

The lab is kept at a humid 78 degrees, and wall-to-wall plexiglass and mesh cages house up to 100 species of arthropods. The Rearing Lab follows strict rules to prevent the critters from escaping from the lab or sneaking in from the outside. Visitors can’t carry bags or anything that insects might decide to crawl into.

ment” up to 50 times

my children among these scary creatures and helping them overcome their fears was a challenge; I had to conquer my own fears as well. I wish the BUGarium at ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden existed back then. My job would have been easier.

Fear of bugs, insects and creepy crawlies is completely normal. Taking that fear to the extreme is not. A child refusing to go into their bedroom because there was once a spider there needs patience, support and an understanding of the bug world. Try to help them look at bugs with a sense of appreciation and wonder; it can help overcome their, and perhaps your, fears.

Talk to them when bugs aren’t around about how we can’t live without them. They pollinate our crops, disperse seeds and help maintain ecosystems and wildlife. Most aren’t dangerous and are more afraid of us than we are of them. Next, visit the BUGarium for a safe place to help kids get up close and personal with creepy crawlies.

The BUGarium houses an impressive collection of creatures of the many-legged variety with antennae, mandibles and exoskeletons to protect them from humans. The immersive public exhibit features naturalistic habitats designed to reveal the unseen wonders of these bugs from around the world. You’ll see goliath beetles, stick insects, Tanzanian pink-legged millipedes and more. They also have naked mole rats, scorpions and tarantulas.

One of the goals of the BUGarium is to expose people to the amazing world of arthropods (bugs) and correct misconceptions through education. Eight of 10 animals on Earth are arthropods, and we can’t live without them because they pollinate flowers, feed other animals, eat dead things and play other important roles.

I recently spoke with Jason C. Schaller, the resident entomologist in charge of the BUGarium. He specializes in studying insects and was hired as the curator of entomology for the BUGarium in 2016, when it was a new exhibit.

A strong sense of curiosity and comfort being around bugs, especially big ones, is needed to enjoy the behind-the-scenes tour. Some of the cages will be opened and Schaller will bring out a sample bug and invite you to hold it, while assuring you it won’t bite, sting, poop on you or endanger your life. You’ll have the opportunity to feed a tarantula and to hold a millipede, a massive beetle, a cockroach or a scorpion in your palms.

Elephant Beetle Pupa: If your child is fascinated by bugs, or you want to help them overcome a fear of bugs, the Rearing Lab offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with more than a hundred insects. Like butterflies and moths, beetles go through complete metamorphosis.

Curious, I asked Schaller exactly what a naked mole rat is. “A naked mole rat is a very bizarre rodent species, one of the weirdest mammals on Earth,” he said. “They're completely hairless, except for some sensory hairs. And they are one of the only mammals that have a huge social structure where there's a queen and a worker cast. You can see all their activity going on and they are blind, so they can't really tell that we're all watching them.”

Well, there you have it. Bugs, scorpions, tarantulas and mole rats galore are waiting to greet you at the ABQ BioPark BUGarium. It’s a unique experience that will help your child and perhaps, yourself, overcome any fears about bugs.

The BUGarium is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with Botanic Garden admission. Arthropod Rearing Lab tours are available by request Saturday through Thursday. Tours start at 2:30 p.m. and cost $40 per guest with a limit of 10 people per tour. Book tours two weeks in advance: info@bioparksociety.org or 505-764-6280.

Night in the Jungle Entrance: Under red light, a darker section of the BUGarium offers a view of the nocturnal activity of various species of insects. Courtesy photos.

Summer 2023

Arts Alive!

Museum Hill™, off Old Santa Fe Trail FREE HANDS ON WORKSHOPS FOR AGES 3 103

All art making activities are from 10am to 2pm. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Museum and Garden entrance free for Arts Alive! participants during workshop hours. Groups of 6 or more, please call or email to guarantee free admission to the museum or garden.

Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian

Groups of 6 or more, please email: Info@wheelwright.org • wheelwright.org

T hurs, 6/15 Painting Workshop with Diné Artist Peterson Yazzie

Museum of Indian Arts and Culture

Groups of 6 or more, please contact: Marita Hinds, 505-476-1272 • marita.hinds@dca.nm.gov • indianartsandculture.org

Tues, 6/ 20 Summer Solstice Activity

Tues, 6/ 27 Weaving

Santa Fe Botanical Gar den

Groups of 6 or more, please contact: Christie Collins, 505-471-9103 ext.5 • christie@santafebotanicalgarden.org • santafebotanicalgarden.org

Sun, 6/18 International Mud Day

Tues, 7/4 Plant Art

T hurs, 8/ 3 National Honey Bee Day

Museum of International Folk Art

Groups of 6 or more, please contact: Patricia Sigala, 505-476-1212 • patricia.sigala@dca.nm.gov • internationalfolkart.org

Wed, 7/12 Japanese Masks

Wed, 7/19 Papier Mâché

Wed, 7/ 26 Dolls

Wed, 8/ 2 Recycled Piñatas

Thinking Outside the Lunchbox Helping Your Kids Develop Healthy Food Habits

By GWYNNE ANN UNRUH

For many parents, packing their children’s lunches and snacks can feel like a game of guesswork. Will they eat it, or not? When we’re busy, we often look for the easy way out…. prepackaged lunchables, for example. Kids love prepackaged mini-meals, but they are full of processed foods that are loaded with sodium and other preservatives.

When they start to attend school, children begin to make lifestyle choices of their own. They learn quickly and are easily influenced by friends and that ever-persistent advertising hype. This is the time in their lives to talk about and encourage them to develop healthy food habits.

When your children ask for a prepackaged lunch, offer to make them one of their very own. Involve them in the process and their lunch boxes just might come back empty at the end of the school day.

Kids’ growing minds and bodies need good nutrients to promote happy, healthy and strong students. Preschool and elementary school years are the critical times to support your children’s understanding and development of healthy eating habits for life.

Eating healthy lunches and snacks will help them concentrate and have lots of energy to play throughout the day. As you talk to your children, discuss what they would like to have included in their lunch box. Make lists with them and take them shopping so they can become creative in healthy food choices.

Here are the basics of a homemade lunchable. Including an item from each group below ensures your child has a balanced meal. Pack lots of colors. Phytochemicals that give plants their different colors provide different health benefits. A variety of fruits and vegetables boosts the nutrient content of meals.

Fresh or Tinned Fruit. Have dried fruit occasionally but avoid dried fruit bars and fruit ‘straps,’ which are low in fiber, high in sugar and can stick to children’s teeth, causing tooth decay.

Fresh Veggies. Try thinly cut cherry tomatoes, carrot sticks or cucumber sticks with dip or a small container with mixed vegetables. Your child can help you make veggie dip for the upcoming week.

Dairy/Dairy Alternative. Include milk, yogurt, cheese or dairy alternatives like rice drink, soy yogurt or even vegan cheese sticks.

Protein. Try lean meat, a hard-boiled egg or nut butters, unless your school has a nut-free policy. Good choices include cheese sticks, hummus, edamame, egg slices or nuts and seeds. Avoid hydrogenated fats.

gluten free).

ly high in fat and sugar, as are chocolate spreads, jams and honey in sandwiches. Also avoid packing fatty, salty processed meats like salami and bologna as well as processed cheese. Read labels and teach your child to read them too.

Skip the cookie or a piece of candy. These items should be an occasional treat. However, don’t feel like you should say no to every treat they ask for.

Rethink Their Drink. Avoiding foods high in sugar is the number one lesson you can teach your child. Sometimes we have to teach ourselves as well. Avoid sugary concentrated drinks and juice boxes that pack calories and can result in kids wild on a sugar high running around the classroom. Fruit drinks, sports drinks, energy drinks, flavored waters, flavored mineral waters, iced teas and soft drinks are high in sugar and can lead to weight gain and oral health problems.

Get your children in the habit of packing their own reusable water bottle every day. Add a slice of lemon or lime for taste. Avoid cheap plastic water bottles in favor of a heavy more durable one with a large open lid so it’s easy to clean.

Easy Eating Tips. Use leftovers. These can make a healthy addition to your child’s lunch and save you time. Eliminate extra cleanups and pack lunches when preparing meals or putting them away. If you're slicing cucumbers and carrots for a salad, cooking pasta or making dollar pancakes, set a little extra aside. Last minute packing of healthy lunches can cause stress. When time is short, convenience foods rule.

To make things easier to eat, especially if your child is at the age where the tooth fairy comes regularly, cut food items bite size, including fruit. For picky eaters, make the food small using thin cuts. Make their food look interesting. Cut diagonally or create rectangles and diamond shapes.

Kids love to dip their food. What’s small to you is super-size for them. They also have less of a tendency to stuff food if the bites are small. Keep lunch boxes cool when it’s hot by sending frozen milk, yogurt or water or even frozen orange segments. Use a freezer pack with any meat. Children love color. Go for it by providing a variety of vegetables and fruits.

Aurora Voss makes cookies to pack in her lunchbox.

JJ Rodriguez adds eggs to the cake he’s making for his and his brother’s lunchbox.

Rory Rodriguez helps his mom make his lunch. Courtesy Photos.

Santa Fe

Albuquerque Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar

Our calendar is as accurate as possible, but times, places & dates of events can change, so be sure to call ahead. Events listed are child- and teen-appropriate to the best of our knowledge. As families have different ideas of “age appropriate,” we encourage you to confirm that any activity you attend is appropriate for your child. To have your events listed for free in our next calendar, fill out our form at newmexico-kids.com or send date, time, place, cost, description of activity, sponsoring organization and contact phone to kids@newmexico-kids.com. The deadline is Aug 16 for listings in the Sept/Oct calendar. Listings not guaranteed due to space limits. Phone numbers have a 505 area code unless otherwise noted.

June

Highlights

28, Perler Beads, 3pm. Get creative with plastic fuse bead crafting. Use one of the patterns provided or make your own design. For ages 9-12, limited to 15. Free, South Broadway Library, 3904 Isleta SW, 877-5170, abqlibrary.org.

29, Nature Discovery for Kids, 8:3011am. For children entering grades 1-5, nature exploration, data collection plus indoor and outdoor activities; please register; waitlist available. $79.20 FRGNC members/$88 per session,Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, 344-7240, rgnc.org.

29, STEAM Demonstration, 9:30am1pm. A demonstration with Paul Beck that includes programmable controllers, smart phone app, bluetooth and 3D printer. Free, Open Space Visitor Center, 768-4951, nmaic.org.

29, Let’s Salsa!, 4-5pm. A demonstration on how to make a simple salsa recipe; ages 13-17, limited to 20. Free, Alamosa Library, 6900 Gonzales SW, 8360684, abqlibrary.org.

July

Arts & Crafts

1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Family Art Workshops, 1-2:30pm. All ages can enjoy projects with a variety of art mediums, materials supplied; child and adult friendly. Included with admission, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov. 19, Rainforest Art Class, 10am-noon. Multi-media art class for the whole family. Learn with Sailer Fine Art and receive a free scoop of ice cream. Free, intergenerational, ages 6 and up, under 10 must attend with an adult; call for reservations. $15, Escape in Time, 1100 San Mateo NE, Suite 21, 350-5413, escapeintimeabq.com.

Classes & Workshops

2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Meditation for Kids, 10-11:30am. In this fun class, children build inner strength and confidence by developing good qualities with a short meditation, teaching and activities to increase patience, respect, giving and kindness; ages 4-10. By donation, Kadampa Meditation Center NM, 142 Monroe NE, 292-5293, meditationinnewmexico.org/calendar.

10-14 & 17-21, Artificial Intelligence Camp. The “Everyday AI” program is led by MIT in partnership with NMSU and Explora and features hands-on and computer-based activities on AI concepts, ethics in AI and how it relates to creativity and the future. For students entering 6th-9th grade. $20/$15 members, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us. 29, Youth Workshop: Place/Pattern - Layering Stencils & Landscapes, 10am-noon. Free, 516 Arts, 516 Central SW, 242-1445, 516arts.org.

Cultural Centers & Museums

3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Toddler Time, 910am. Explora opens an hour early for caregivers and toddlers to enjoy early childhood exhibit areas, story time and a music jam. Included with admission/free for members & under age 1, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us.

8, Second Saturday: Time Travel at Casa San Ysidro, 1-2:30pm. An immersive and interactive living history program that engages audiences by transporting them back in time to relive historical experiences with games, activities, arts and events. Free, 973 Old Church, Corrales, 898-3915, calendar.visitcorrales.com.

8, Sensory Friendly Time, 5:30-7pm. A low-sensory hour with special adaptations for quieter visits including limited attendance, noise & light reduction and calming spaces for breaks. Included with admission/free for members & under age 1 Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us.

20, Relaxed Nights...At the Museum, 5:30-7:30pm. For all ages who might get overwhelmed by crowds, sounds or flashing lights; or simply enjoy smaller crowds, these evenings feature special, sensory-friendly offerings in the museum. Registration encouraged. Free/cash donation at the door, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2800, nmnaturalhistory.org. NM Dept of Cultural Affairs has information about NM museums, historic sites and other institutions. Find information about free admission days for kids and on certain days of each month, newmexicoculture.org.

Dance

1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 29, 30, Cultural Dance Program, 11am & 2pm, Sats & Suns. Pueblo communities celebrate seasonal cycles through prayer, song and

dance that connect ancestors, community and traditions while honoring gifts from the Creator. Included with admission, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th NW, 843-7270, indianpueblo.org.

8, Youth Folklórico Recital - Summer 2023, 3-5pm. The Ballet Folklórico Fiesta Mexicana instructors and students have been practicing for six weeks, this performance includes costumes and traditional Mexican music. Free, ages 2 and under/$5 ages 3-12 & 55+/$10 ages 13-54, South Broadway Cultural Center, 1025 Broadway SE, 848-1320, cabq.gov/artsculture/south-broadway-culturalcenter/events/youth-folklorico-recitalsummer-2023.

Exhibits

1 -31, “At Play in the Atomic Age.” This exhibit features more than 100 artifacts on loan. Join and look at the toys, books, games and music of the Atomic Age. $15, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 2452137, nuclearmuseum.org.

7, First Friday Fractals, 6 & 7pm. A full-dome planetarium show that takes viewers on a tour of the fractals in nature and zooms through complex mathematical fractals; for ages 3+. $5 ages 3-12/$8 seniors/$10 adults, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2800, nmnaturalhistory.org/events/first-friday-fractals.

7, Fractals Rock! 8 & 9pm. A full-dome planetarium show that takes viewers on a tour of the fractals in nature with less talk and more rock. Included are more 3D fractal zooms (which can make some people motion sick), and very little explanation; ages 3+. $5 ages 3-12/$8 seniors/$10 adults, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2800, nmnaturalhistory.org /events/first-friday-fractals.

Elevation Station. An interactive, hands-on balloon exhibition for all ages includes games with projection mapping, touch tables, activities and immersive experiences. Find an Immersive Color Room and Chase Crew Experience as well. Included with admission, ABQ Balloon Fiesta Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum NE, 768-6020, balloonmuseum.com.

Fairs and Festivals

1, 15, 29, Family Music Festivals, 4:30-8pm. Enjoy music by two Western music bands, food from local vendors and visit the raptor show between performances. Free ages 17 and under/$20, includes entrance to the zoo, Wildlife West Nature Park, 87 N Frontage Road, Edgewood, 281-7655, wildlifewest.org.

1, Freedom Celebration, 4:30pm. Fireworks show, live music, gospel message, fun zone, extreme sports demo and food trucks. Free, ABQ Balloon Fiesta Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum NE, 768-6020, freedomabq.org.

4, 4th of July Celebration, 6-9:30pm. The City of Rio Rancho presents a celebration featuring live music, food trucks and fireworks. Free, Campus Park, 2516

King NE, Rio Rancho, rrnm.gov.

4, Corrales 4th of July Parade, 10am. The parade will start at Target and end at Double S. Spectators sit south of Target. Food and ice cream trucks by the pool as well as a BBQ fundraiser at La Entrada at the end of the parade, followed by numerous activities throughout the village. Free, corrales-nm.org/parksrec/page/recreation-programs.

4, Freedom 4th, 3-10pm. Enjoy fireworks, food and beer in the Cantina and free children’s activities including inflatable jumpers, climbing walls and free face painting; enjoy live music headlined by Lindsay Ell. Fireworks at 9:15pm. Free, Balloon Fiesta Park, 5000 Balloon Fiesta Pkwy, cabq.gov/artsculture/things-todo/annual-events/freedom-4th.

15, Igbo Cultural Festival, 4-9pm. This cultural and community event will feature cultural dances & foods, Igbo folklore, educational contests, Iri Ji, awards presentations and more. $15, South Broadway Cultural Center, 1025 Broadway SE, cabq.gov/artsculture/southbroadway-cultural-center/events/igbocultural-festival.

22, Route 66 Summerfest, 5-10pm. Multiple stages with local bands and food trucks. Free, Nob Hill, Girard to Washington, cabq.gov/artsculture/thingsto-do/annualevents/summerfest/route66-summerfest.

22-23, The Lavender in the Village Festival, 8am-3pm. One hundred and ten vendors of lavender products, fine art, foods, live music, agricultural seminars, culinary demonstrations, yoga sessions, ceramic painting classes, kids center with free crafts & activities with Explora; all ages. $5 youth/$10 adult, Hartnett Park, 6718 Rio Grande NW, Los Ranchos, lavenderinthevillage.org.

Library Events

Area Libraries offer activities like Lego Club, Book Groups, Read to the Dogs, Story Times, Crafts, Movies and Knitting Clubs. Check websites for calendars and details: abqlibrary.org, riorancholibraries.org, placitaslibrary.com.

6, Wonders on Wheels Mobile Museum, noon-4pm. Children can view two art exhibits: one with Gustav Baumann’s landscape paintings and one with marionettes. Kids can make their own marionette to take home. Free, Placitas Community Library, 453 Hwy 165, Placitas, 867-3355, placitaslibrary.com.

13, Llamas Del Sol, 10:30-11:30am. This local nonprofit will bring some of the llamas they take care of. Free, Esther Bone Memorial Library, 950 Pinetree SE, RR, 891-5012, riorancholibraries.org.

13, World Snack Fair, Get a food passport stamped by trying snacks from seven different countries; guess where the snacks are from. Registration required, supplies limited; not all dietary restrictions can be met. Free, Loma Colorado Main Library Auditorium, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries.org.

15, Sing All Together Now!, 1pm. Sing, dance, read aloud in this fun program

Albuquerque Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar

about friendship, kindness and unity. Free, Placitas Community Library, 453 Hwy 165, Placitas, 867-3355, placitaslibrary.com.

19, Ice Cream Making, 4-5pm. Learn how to make ice cream in a bag, no machine required. Ages 9-12, limited to 20. Free, Lomas Tramway Library, 908 Eastridge NE, 291-6295, abqlibrary.org.

22, Let’s Polka! 1pm. Mike Schneider, Pint Sized Polkas. Learn about and enjoy the fun that is polka and the accordion. Free, Placitas Community Library, 453 Hwy 165, Placitas, 867-3355, placitaslibrary.com.

26 Summer Reading Finale Party, 46pm. Celebrate the end of the Summer Reading Program at a family friendly dance party with DJ Too Hot to Stop. Enjoy pizza, snacks and good company. Free, Loma Colorado Main Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries.org.

27, Summer Reading Finale Party, 10:30-11:30am. Celebrate the end of summer with a grande finale: snacks, crafts and fun. Free, Esther Bone Library lawn, 950 Pinetree SE, RR, 891-5012, riorancholibraries.org.

29, Caligraphy Demonstration, 10amnoon. Take home a personalized bookmark created by members of the Meadowlark Senior Center Calligraphy Club. Learn about the different tools and techniques used to create this art form. Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, rrnm.gov/4280/SummerReading.

29, Final Event: Playing Together, 1pm. Celebrate the last day of the Summer Reading Program with puzzles, game, coloring, Legos and la lotería. Enjoy refreshments and receive a prize bag for participating, prizes awarded for top readers. Free, Placitas Community Library, 453 Hwy 165, Placitas, 867-3355, placitaslibrary.com.

29, Live Action Role Playing, 2-3pm. Play your way through a game with foam swords, giant dice, flags, “world” travel and (if you want) costumes. Ages 9-12, limited to 20. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6260, abqlibrary.org.

Ann Lincoln’s Work Together Comedy, Music and Juggling Show. Ann Lincoln’s performance gets even better when the audience joins in. Anything can happen when kids work with Ann and her live rabbit and dove. Free, various dates, times and library locations, abqlibrary.org. Explora at the Library. Explora brings activities like exploring kaleidoscopes, a behind-the-scenes look at computer coding. Free, various dates, times and library locations, abqlibrary.org.

Pint-Sized Polkas with Mike Schneider. Music and magic frenzy, Schneider brings the happiest music on earth plus magic and comedy for the whole family, Free, various dates, times and library locations, abqlibrary.org.

Three Goats Gruff with Opera Unlimited. A musical fable based on the classic fairy tale, but with a twist. This silly family of goats gets stuck on the wrong side of a bridge that is guarded by a clever troll, in order to cross, they must answer riddles. Free, various dates, times and library locations, abqlibrary.org.

Music

1-2, 7-9, 14-16, 21-23, 28-30, Summer Music in Old Town, 7-9pm. Fri & Sat; 13pm, Suns. Live music on the gazebo among shops and restaurants. Free, Old Town, 303 Romero NW., cabq.gov/artsculture/historic-old-town/summertimein-old-town.

6, 13, 20, 27, Outdoor Music Series, 6-8pm. Musicians will be playing outside around the silos. Seating is first-come, first-served. Dinner reservations available. Free, Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm, 4803 Rio Grande NW, Los Ranchos, 344-9297, lospoblanos.com.

6, 14, 28, Garden Music, 6-8:30pm. Kids can get their face painted, food and drink will be for sale and live local musicians will perform. Free, ages 2 and under/$7 ages 3-13/$7 seniors/$14 adults, NMBPS members 50% off with valid ID, ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central NW, 768-2000, cabq.gov.

7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 28, Music Under the Stars, 7-10pm. Live music in the Museum Amphitheater rain or shine; food and drink available for sale. See website for full schedule. $17-$40, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 255-9798, cabq.gov/artsculture/albuquerquemuseum/events/music-under-the-stars.

12-15, Mariachi Spectacular de Albuquerque, 6-8pm. A four-day workshop, education and concert event with a free performance on July 14. Free, 1 Civic Plaza, 836-0306, mariachispectacular.com.

12, 26, ABQ Concert Band Free Outdoor Summer Concert, 7-8pm. Familyfriendly music featuring the ABQ Concert Band. Bring family, friends and a picnic. Free, ABQ International Balloon Museum, 9201 Balloon Museum NE, abqband.org.

22, Route 66 Summerfest 2023: NM Jazz Festival Stage, 5-9pm. Son Como Son, Delbert Anderson’s D’DAT and Doug Lawrence’s Nuevo Mexicanos. Free, Central & Carlisle NE, outpostspace.org/outpost-performance-space/schedule.

29, Community Concert with JD Nash and the Rash of Cash, 6-8:30pm. A family-friendly event highlighting musicians and performers; paletas, face painting, bosque traveling exhibit truck, rock climbing wall and hands-on nature activities. Bring a chair or blanket & picnic dinner; all ages. Free, Tijeras BioZone Education Center Open Space, 15600 Central SE, cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/open-space/events.

Summer Reading Concerts. Various musicians perform different genres; all ages. Various times, dates and library locations, abqlibrary.org.

Science & Nature

1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 29-30, Saturday & Sunday Guided Bird Walks, 8:3010am. Join a volunteer naturalist and fellow birders for a guided walk; limited to 12, please register. $3 parking/day use fee, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, rgnc.org. 10-13, 17-20, Nature Discovery for Kids, 8:30-11am. For children entering grades 1-5, nature exploration, data col-

lection plus indoor and outdoor activities; please register, waitlist available. $79.20 FRGNC members/$88 per session,Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, 344-7240, rgnc.org.

11, Night Walk at the Botanic Garden, 6:30-8pm. Explore the Garden under the light of the moon. Bring family and explore nightfall and walk on a guided tour in search of night-blooming plants, nocturnal animals and pollinators. $9-$15, ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central NW, 768-2000, cabq.gov. 18, Twilight Tour at the Zoo, 6:308pm. Experience the sights and sounds of the Zoo at twilight. Observe animal behavior while taking a tour led by a guide. $9-$15, Zoo, ABQ BioPark, 903 10th SW, 764-6214, cabq.gov/artsculture/biopark/events/twi light-tour-at-the-zoo-june.

24, Mineral Monday, 3-5pm. Meteorite vs Meteor-wrong: Learn how to tell if your specimen is from out-of-the-world with Geologist Jayne Aubele. Free, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2800, nmnaturalhistory.org.

28, Guided Tour: Candelaria Nature Preserve Open Space, 10am-noon. Join staff and volunteer experts and explore Open Space properties and experience what public lands have to offer. Free, Candelaria Nature Preserve Open Space, End of Arbor Road, 768-4208, cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/openspace/events.

29, Family Nature Club: In a Flash (nature photography for all ages), 911am. Join a ranger on a family-friendly hike and engage in hands-on learning as a family, listen to natural history fun facts, storytelling and seek out wildlife. Free, Rio Grande Bosque Open Space, Tingley Beach, 1800 Tingley SW, 768-4950, cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/openspace/events/copy10_of_family-natureclub-hike.

State Parks Free Entrance Days. Details can be found at nps.gov/planyourvisit/fee-free-parks-state.htm.

Stage

1, “Willy Wonka Jr.,” 2 & 6pm. $15, Musical Theatre Southwest, 6320 Domingo NE, Suite B, mtsabq.org.

2, 6, 8, NM Shakespeare Festival, “Comedy of Errors,” 6:45pm. Preshow entertainment at 6:45pm and performances at 7:30pm. Free, NM Veterans Memorial, 1100 Louisiana SE, newmexicoshakespearefest.org.

6, NM Shakespeare Festival, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” 7:30pm. This performance is set in the magical moment between waking and sleeping, the slow surfacing from the depths of your dreamscape. Free, Plaza Mayor, National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm.org.

7, NM Shakespeare Festival, “A Midsummer’s Night Dream,” 6:45pm. Preshow entertainment at 6:45pm and performances at 7:30pm. Free, NM Veterans Memorial, 1100 Louisiana SE, newmexicoshakespearefest.org.

Storytelling

Area Libraries offer various storytelling events regularly. Check websites for calendars and details: abqlibrary.org, riorancholibraries.org, placitaslibrary.com.

15, Storytelling Under the Cottonwood, 10:30am-noon. Hear wisdom tales told by storyteller Dianne Rossbach. $3 parking/day use, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, rgnc.org.

19, Animal Tales with the BioPark. Enjoy the reading of an animal-related book. The BioPark will bring animals and biofacts that represent the animals in the story for kids to meet. Free, Westgate Library, 1300 Delgado SW, 833-684, abqlibrary.org.

Just for Teens

3, Anime Club, 3:30-4:30pm. Join likeminded fans with shows, themed food and activities; ages 13-19. Send show recommendations to libraryteens@rrnm.gov.

Free, Loma Colorado Main Library Auditorium, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries.org.

20, Let’s Make Sugar Scrub, 4-5pm. A hands-on activity to learn how to make sugar scrubs for ages 13-17, limited to 20. Free, Alamosa Library, 6900 Gonzales SW, 836-0684, abqlibrary.org.

22, Build Your Own Mini Zen Garden, 3:30-5:30pm. Learn about the art of zen gardens and build a mini one to take home. Supplies included; ages 13-17, limited to 20 participants. Call to sign up or stop by. Free, Central & Unser Library, 8081 Central NW, 768-4320, abqlibrary.org.

24, Interactive Movie, 2-4pm. watch a favorite movie in a new light. A script and props will be provided; have fun passing the orb, eating a treat, shouting at inopportune moments and dancing in your chair; ages 13-17, limited to 45. Free, Erna Fergusson Library, 3700 San Mateo NE, 888-8100, abqlibrary.org.

24, Teen Advisory Group, 3:30pm. Earn volunteer hours while making the library a great place for teens: help plan programs and recommend materials; ages 13-18. Free, Loma Colorado Library, 755 Loma Colorado NE, RR, 891-5013, riorancholibraries.org.

Counselor in Training Program. A teen leadership program that builds interpersonal, collaborative and communication skills. Ages 13-17 can apply by submitting a student resume to the Director of Education, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, lguida@nuclearmuseum.org.

Especially for Parents

14, Science on Tap: Meet AwardWinning Documentary Film Producer Larry Sheffield, 6pm. Grab a beer and enjoy a relaxed presentation about the three films he worked on regarding the Manhattan Project, the Trinity Site Test, Operation Paperclip and the testing of V-2 rockets. The talks are co-spon-

Albuquerque Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar

sored by UNM, Explora and the museum; ages 21+. $5, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 2452137, nuclearmuseum.org.

21, Explora Adult Night: “Sowing Science,” 6-9pm. Meet with a beekeeper for some sweet summer honey, jam out to some eco-beats and sign up for a chance to mentor NM’s youth with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Jericho Nursery and ABQ Astrological Society will be on hand and Three Sisters Kitchen will provide treats; 18+. Free for members/$10, Explora, 1801 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/programs/adult-night.

22, Sand Tray Workshop for Adults, 10am-noon. Creating “Sand Tray” is another way to tell a story, to dig deep inside grief, to find strengths and increase resilience. It is an effective approach for those who have experienced a traumatic event; for bereaved adults, 18+; please register. Free, The Center for Hope & Healing, 4125 Carlisle NE, griefnm.org/events.

For Teachers

24, Seeds and Soil EC Teacher Workshop, 10am-noon. Learn how to plant seeds of STEM with students. Get dirty with soil and dirt, design seed through the engineering design process and determine an ideal seed bomb. Free with registration, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/events.

Also of Interest

1-2, 2023 Annual Lavender U-Pick It Experience, 7-11am. Free admission, fee to pick bundles, Jo’s ABQ Farms, 2017 Rio Grande NW, 710-2074, josfarms.com.

1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 29-30, Expo NM Flea Market, 7am-3pm. NM’s largest open air market. $2/$7 per car parking, admission included for all in the car, Expo NM, 300 San Pedro NE, 319-2849, exponm.com/p/fleamarket.

1, 15, Chess in the Parks, 8:30-11:30am. Join chess players, coaches and volunteers. Chess equipment, clocks and chess variant sets provided. Volunteer coaches are on hand to teach and discuss; occasional mini tournaments and events. Free, ABQ Downtown Growers’ Market, Robinson Park, 810 Copper NW, learnerschess.org/chessintheparks.

3-7, 10-14, 17-21, 24-28, 31, Pre-School Open Gym, 11:45am-12:30pm. For ages 5 and under. $5 if not enrolled, SAGA Gymnastics, 3400 Candelaria, NE, 884-6949, sagagym.com.

6-9, Railrunner Round-Trip to International Folk Art Market. The Rail Runner is extending its schedule during the market dates. See website for full details, riometro.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=447.

7, 14, 21, 28, Movies in the Park, dusk. Food vendors on site, bring blankets, lawn chairs, food and drink; alcohol, weapons and video recorders not permitted). Free, various community centers, bernco.gov/community-services/cultural-services/cultural-servicesevents/movies-in-the-park.

11, 25, Tasty Tuesdays @ Hyder Park, 4:30-8:30pm. Food trucks and music hosted by community members and neighborhood associations in ABQ parks. Free, Hyder Park, 700 Pershing SE, visitalbuquerque.org/event/tasty-tuesdays-%40hyder-park/53431.

14, Kids Zone, 9am-noon. This fun and creative workshop is for ages 5-12 who have experienced a death. Through physical activities and art, children will learn about grief and ways of coping. Though children are dropped off, adults should be on-call in case of emergencies. Registration required by July 7. The Center for Hope & Healing, 4125 Carlisle NE, 3230478, griefnm.org/event/kids-zone.

21, 24, 26, 27, FIFA Women’s World Cup, 6pm. Join with pregame festivities and kickoff: food trucks and breweries on the NHCC Campus; please register. Free, National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm.org.

28, Movies under the Stars, Rio Rancho, “E.T.,” 8:30-10:10pm. Free hamburgers and hot dogs provided by the Army National Guard. All ages, bring blankets, folding chairs and picnic baskets; no alcohol or smoking. Free, Cabezon Park, 2307 Cabezon, Rio Rancho, rrnm.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=15.

New Mexico Farmers’ Markets have ever changing information. Find the most up-to-date info at farmersmarketsnm.org/find-a-market.

The Children’s Hour provides weekly educational and entertaining public radio programing and podcasts for listeners of all ages, created by and for kids and families, ChildrensHour.org, 89.9 fm KUNM.

August

Arts &Crafts

5, 12, 19, 26, Art Workshops, 12:30pm. All ages enjoy projects with a variety of art mediums, all materials supplied; child and grown-up friendly. Included with admission, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 243-7255, cabq.gov.

Classes & Workshops

6, 13, 20, 27, Meditation for Kids, In Person, 10-11:30am. In this fun class, children build inner strength and confidence by developing good qualities with a short meditation, teaching and activities to increase patience, respect, giving and kindness; ages 4-10. By donation, Kadampa Meditation Center NM, 142 Monroe NE, 292-5293, meditationinnewmexico.org/calendar.

Cultural Centers

& Museums

5, Meet A Scientist, 10am-1pm. Meet a variety of local scientists who demonstrate how STEAM is used throughout the

city. Included with admission/free for members & under age 1, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us.

7, 14, 21, 28, Toddler Time, 9-10am. Explora opens an hour early for caregivers and toddlers to enjoy early childhood exhibit areas, story-time and a music jam. Included with admission/free for members & under age 1, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us. NM Dept of Cultural Affairs has information about NM museums, historic sites and other institutions. Find information about free days for kids and on certain days of the month, newmexicoculture.org.

Dance

5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 26-27, Cultural Dance Program, 11am & 2pm, Sats & Suns. Pueblo communities celebrate seasonal cycles through prayer, song and dance. These dances connect ancestors, community and traditions while honoring gifts from the Creator. Included with admission, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, 2401 12th NW, 843-7270, indianpueblo.org.

Exhibits

1 -31, “At Play in the Atomic Age.” This exhibit features more than 100 artifacts on loan. Join and look at the toys, books, games, and music of the Atomic Age. $15, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.

4, First Friday Fractals, 6 & 7pm. A full-dome planetarium show that takes viewers on a tour of fractals in nature and zooms through complex mathematical fractals; ages 3+. $5 ages 3-12/$8 seniors/$10 adults, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2800, nmnaturalhistory.org/events/ first-friday-fractals.

4, Fractals Rock!, 8 & 9pm. A fulldome planetarium show that takes viewers on a tour of the fractals in nature with less talk and more rock. They include more 3D fractal zooms (which can make some people motion sick) and very little explanation; ages 3+. $5 ages 312/$8 seniors/$10 adults, NM Museum of Natural History & Science, 1801 Mountain NW, 841-2800, nmnaturalhistory.org /events/first-friday-fractals.

Fairs and Festivals

5, 5th Annual Burque Niños Block Party, 2-10pm. Proceeds raised from this event will go toward programs to help children and their familys through Cuidando Los Niños. This all-ages event features live music. $20, fusion Meadows Theatres, 708 1st NW, 515-1116, tickets.holdmyticket.com/tickets/416051.

5, Westside Summerfest, 5-10pm.

Small businesses with handcrafted products, food trucks, libations, a kids area and entertainment by local talent. Free, Ventana Ranch Community Park, 10000 Universe NW, 768-3556, cabq.gov/artsculture/things-to-do/annual-events/sum-

merfest/westside-summerfest.

11, Family Picnic Night, 6-9pm. Spend the evening surrounded by floral landscapes, food, fun and live music. Bring your own or order a picnic ahead of time. Bring chair and coolers but not alcohol, tents, canopies or pets. See website for details, ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central NW, 768-2000, cabq.gov/artsculture/biopark/events/fa mily-picnic-night-at-the-botanic-garden/view.

12, India Day ABQ, 5pm. A parade, flag ceremony, music, dancing, food, clothing, jewelry, henna and traditional performances. Free, North Domingo Baca Park, 7521 Carmel NE, 914-888-4959, visitalbuquerque.org/event/india-day-albuquerque/53150.

12, 26, Wildlife West Family Music Festivals, 4-9pm. Live music is at 4:30 & 7pm in the all-weather amphitheater, raptor show, zoo visitation to see NM wildlife species and food trucks. $20/free 17 and under, Wildlife West Nature Park, 87 N. Frontage, 281-7655, wildlifewest.org. 19-20, 4th Annual Pirate Viking Summer Festival. A pirate viking steampunk celebration with food, live music, adult- and kid-friendly activities and dancing. Stories, games, craft vendors, food, drinks, water fights, tug-owar competition, taverns and mangy characters walking about. Free 17 & under with a paid parent, $11-$100, Wildlife West Nature Park, 87 E Frontage Rd, Edgewood, nmrenceltfest.ticketspice.com/pirate-viking-summer-festival.

25-27, Bubonicon 54. NM’s longest running Sci-Fi & Fantasy literary and arts convention with panels and presentations, a costume contest, art show, dealers room, Green Slime Awards, auctions and fan programming. This year’s theme: “Across the Multiverse” (Alternate Dimensions, Parallel Worlds). $28 weekend pass ages 13-19/$48 weekend pass adults,ABQ Marriott Uptown, 2101 Louisiana NE, bubonicon.com.

25-27, Bubonicon 54 Art Show. This art show is held in conjunction with Bubonicon, NM’s oldest and only science fiction convention. Artwork that fits into science fiction, fantasy, horror, mythology or superheros is welcome and displayed for sale; all ages, (no charge for K-12 student sellers). Free, ABQ Marriott Uptown, 2101 Louisiana NE, bubonicon.com.

Library Events

Area Libraries offer activities like Lego Club, Book Groups, Read to the Dogs, Story Times, Crafts, Movies and Knitting Clubs. Check websites for calendars and details: abqlibrary.org, riorancholibraries.org, placitaslibrary.com.

5, Ernie Pyle Day, 10:30am-noon. Festivities including music by The Dawn Hotel, a display of Ernie Pyle memorabilia and cake to commemorate the Pulitzer Prize winning author and his esteemed contributions to the history of American journalism. Free, Ernie Pyle Library, 900 Girard SE, 256-2065, abqlibrary.org.

16, LEAP into Science: Science of a

Albuquerque Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar

Simple Sort!, 4-5pm. People naturally sort or group things in order to find, display, or compare them more easily. Using observation and classification skills brings order to our hectic lives. For ages 6-9. Free, Los Griegos Library, 1000 Griegos NW, 761-4020, abqlibrary.org. Explora at the Library. Explora brings activities like exploring kaleidoscopes, a behind the scenes look at computer coding and the art-science connections by using pigments to use paints. Free, various dates, times and library locations, abqlibrary.org.

Music

3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Outdoor Music Series, 6-8pm. Musicians will be playing outside around the silos. Seating is firstcome, first-served. Dinner reservations available. Free, Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm, 4803 Rio Grande NW, Los Ranchos, 344-9297, lospoblanos.com/events/outdoor-musicseries.

4, 5, 11, Music Under the Stars, 710pm. Live music in the Amphitheater rain or shine; food and drink available for sale. See website for full schedule.

$17-$40, ABQ Museum, 2000 Mountain NW, 255-9798, cabq.gov/artsculture/albuquerque-museum/events/music-underthe-stars.

5, Concerts @ the Library: The Dawn Hotel, 1030-11:30am. Indie rock and America songs that explore history, literature and a sense of place. Free, Ernie Pyle Library, 900 Girard SE, 256-2065, abqlibrary.org.

12, Otilio Ruiz & Chuy Martínez, 2pm. Chuy Martinez is a skilled musician and natural storyteller who started singing at the age of five and formed the children’s group, Voces De Coronado. Free, South Broadway Library, 1025 Broadway SE, 764-1742, ampconcerts.org/event/417383/otilioruiz-amp-chuy-martnez.

12, 26, Family Music Festivals, 4:308pm. Enjoy music by two western music bands, food from local vendors and visit the raport show between performances. Free ages 17 and under/$20, includes entrance to the zoo, Wildlife West Nature Park, 87 North Frontage Road, Edgewood, wildlifewest.org.

26, Community Concert with Jimmy Climbs, 6-8:30pm. A family-friendly event highlighting musicians and performers; paletas, face painting, bosque traveling exhibit truck, rock climbing wall and hands-on nature activities. Bring a chair or blanket & picnic dinner; all ages. Free, Tijeras BioZone Education Center Open Space, 15600 Central SE, cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/openspace/events.

Open Houses

17, ABQ Girl Choir Open House, 5pm. For girls who love to sing, grades 2-12, no auditions required. Free, First Presbyterian Church, 215 Locust NE, abqgirlchoir.org.

Science & Nature

1, Night Walk at the Botanic Garden, 6:30-8pm. Explore the Garden under the light of the moon. Bring family and explore the wonders of nightfall and walk on a guided tour in search of nightblooming plants, nocturnal animals and night pollinators. $9-$15, ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central NW, 7682000, cabq.gov.

5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 26-27, Saturday & Sunday Guided Bird Walks, 8:3010am. Join a volunteer naturalist and fellow birders for a guided walk; limited to 12, please register. $3 parking/day use fee, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, rgnc.org.

8, Twilight Tour at the Zoo, 6:308pm. Experience the sights and sounds of the Zoo at twilight. Observe interesting animal behavior while taking a tour led by a guide. $9-$15, Zoo - ABQ BioPark, 903 10th SW, 764-6214, cabq.gov/artsculture /biopark/events/twilight-tour-at-the-zoojune.

25, Guided Tour: Candelaria Nature Preserve Open Space, 10am-noon. Join staff and volunteer experts and explore Open Space properties and experience what public lands have to offer. Free, Candelaria Nature Preserve Open Space, End of Arbor Road, 768-4208, cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/openspace/events.

State Parks Free Entrance Days: details can be found at nps.gov/planyourvisit/fee-free-parks-state.htm.

Storytelling

Area Libraries offer various storytelling events regularly. Check websites for calendars and details: abqlibrary.org, riorancholibraries.org, placitaslibrary.com.

19, Storytelling Under the Cottonwood, 10:30am-noon. Hear wisdomtales told by storyteller Dianne Rossbach. $3 parking/day use, Rio Grande Nature Center State Park, 2901 Candelaria NW, rgnc.org.

Just for Teens

12, Book Page Apples, 2-4pm. Make a red apple out of an old book. All materials provided, registration required. For adults but teens and welcome to attend. Free, Juan Tabo Library, 3407 Juan Tabo NE, 291-6269, abqlibrary.org.

Especially for Parents

3, Happy Arte Hour, 7pm. Adults join for artistic fun in a relaxed social setting. Hang out with friends, on a date or solo and connect with fellow art enthusiasts. Drinks and snacks available for purchase; registration requested. Free/$5 donations encouraged, National Hispanic Cultural Center, 1701 4th SW, 724-4771, nhccnm.org.

11, Science on Tap: Inertial Confinement Fusion: What is it? Why is it

important? What does the future hold?, 6pm. Grab a beer and enjoy a relaxed presentation co-sponsored by UNM, Explora and the museum; ages 21+. $5, National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, 601 Eubank SE, 245-2137, nuclearmuseum.org.

12, Bloodmobile Blood Drive, 10am2pm. Schedule an appointment at donors.vitalant.org and use code A2CHL. Free, Cherry Hills Library parking lot, 6901 Barstow NE, 857-8321, abqlibrary.org.

25, Explora Adult Night: “The Science of Beer,” 6:30-10:30pm. Beerthemed activities, samples, cash bars, live music, food trucks and Explora’s hands-on exhibits. VIP tickets include early entry and a commemorative glass; 18+. VIP early entry with commemorative beer glass available in advance, Explora, 1801 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/programs/adult-night.

For Teachers

10, Mysterious Matter EC Teacher Workshop, 10am-noon. Investigate properties of solids, liquids and gasses by comparing and contrasting different matter. Free with registration, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW, 600-6072, explora.us/events.

24, Crazy about Chromatography EC Teacher Workshop, 2-4pm. Investigate colored markers, food coloring and candy to see what unexpected colors each contains. Free with registration, Explora, 1701 Mountain NW. 600-6072, explora.us/events.

Also of Interest

1, Back-to-School Jumpstart, 67:30pm. A 1.5-hour workshop for young people and their guardians that helps prepare for a new school year after experiencing the death of a significant person; guardians will be present. NE Heights location to be provided by email the week of Aug 1, griefnm.org/event /back-to-school-jumpstart.

1, Tasty Tuesdays @ Hyder Park, 4:308:30pm. Food trucks and music hosted by community members and neighborhood associations in ABQ parks. Free, Hyder Park, 700 Pershing SE, visitalbuquerque.org/event/tasty-tuesdays-%40hyder-park/53431.

1-4, 7-11, 14-18, 21-25, 28-31, PreSchool Open Gym, 11:45am-12:30pm. For ages 5 and under. $5 if not enrolled, SAGA Gymnastics, 3400 Candelaria NE, 884-6949, sagagym.com.

5-6, 12-13, 19-20, 26-27, Expo NM Flea Market, 7am-3pm. NM’s largest open air market. $2, $7 per car parking, admission included for all in the car, Expo NM, 300 San Pedro NE, 319-2849, exponm.com/p/fleamarket.

5, 19, Chess in the Parks, 8:30-11:30am. Join chess players, coaches and volunteers. Chess equipment, clocks and chess variant sets provided. Volunteer coaches are on hand to teach and discuss; occasional mini tournaments and events. Free, ABQ Downtown Growers’ Market,

Robinson Park, 810 Copper NW, learnerschess.org/chessintheparks.

12, Back to School Rummage Sale, 8am-2pm. Clean out the closet and sell items or come down and browse. Food trucks will be on site. Free for shoppers, Cabezon Park, 2307 Cabezon SE, Rio Rancho, 891-5015, rrnm.gov.

18, Movies under the Stars, Rio Rancho, “Lady and Tramp” 8:30-10:10pm. Free hamburgers and hot dogs provided by the Army National Guard. All ages, bring blankets, folding chairs and picnic baskets. No alcohol or smoking. Free, Cabezon Park, 2307 Cabezon, Rio Rancho, rrnm.gov/4658/Movies-under-the-stars. 26, Teddy Bear Picnic, 1:30-3:30pm. Dress in your picnic best and have a full picnic lunch, a teddy bear story, crafts and games; bring a favorite plush pal. $10 per person (Each child and parent must register). Ages 2 and up. Registration deadline is August 18. $10, Cabezon Park, 2307 Cabezon, Rio Rancho, rrnm.gov/calendar.aspx?PREVIEW=YES&EID=9731.

New Mexico Farmers’ Markets have ever changing information. Find the most up-to-date info at farmersmarketsnm.org/find-a-market.

The Children’s Hour provides weekly educational and entertaining public radio programing and podcasts for listeners of all ages, created by and for kids and families, ChildrensHour.org, 89.9 fm KUNM.

Santa Fe Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar July

Arts & Crafts

2, 5, 12, 19, 26, Family Art Making, 10am-noon. Art making in the Courtyard will be free and adults can pay admission to explore galleries with their children before or after, light snacks. Free 16 and under, NM Museum of Art, 107 W Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org.

7, Create Station, 9am-5pm. This dropin activity station provides art-making materials plus guided activities; all ages. Free, NM Museum of Art, 107 W Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org.

7, First Friday at Georgia O’Keeffe Museum: Poetry Reading, 5-7pm. A family friendly art-filled evening with “Say What?!?” poetry performances by SF Youth Poet Laureate finalists. Free to NM residents, Georgia O’Keefe Museum, 217 Johnson, 946-1000, okeeffemuseum.org.

7, 14, 21, 28, Fine Art Fridays, 2-4pm. Exploration of the arts with guest facilitators and hands-on activities. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

9, Family Fun Day: Picture Perfect!, 11am-3pm. Explore the art of photography through hands-on art making activities and story time in the garden. Participating families receive pass for free admission to the museum. Free, Georgia O’Keefe Museum, 217 Johnson, 946-1000, okeeffemuseum.org.

13, Hands-on Art with the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, 3:30pm. An open art workshop, participants will use provided supplies to create foam landscapes. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafelibrary.org.

20, Hands-on Art with the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, 3:30pm. An open art workshop, participants will use provided supplies to create foam landscapes. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.

Classes & Workshops

4, Arts Alive!: Plant Art, 10am-2pm. Hands-on workshop, children must be accompanied by adult. Museum is free during workshop hours (call or email to guarantee). Groups of 6 or more contact Christie Collins, 471-9103, ext 5, christie@santafebotanicalgarden.org.

Free, SF Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org.

9, An Interactive Japanese “Uchiwa” Fan-making Workshop for Kids, 2-3pm. A workshop to make “uchiwa” fans, typically made from bamboo and paper and used to cool off. Free, SITE Santa Fe, 1606 Paseo De Peralta, folkartmarket.org.

12, 19, 26, Arts Alive!: Japanese Masks, Papier Maché, Dolls, 10am2pm. Hands-on workshop, children must be accompanied by adult. Museum is free during workshop hours (call or email to guarantee). Groups of 6 or more

contact Patricia Sigala, 476-1212, patricia.sigala@dca.nm.gov. Free, Museum of International Folk Art, 706 Camino Lejo, On Museum Hill, 476-1200, internationalfolkart.org.

24-31, Summer High School Photography Workshop, 10am-noon. Whether using professional DSLRs or cell phone cameras, all welcome. Learn in the studio and out and explore digital editing tools and concepts; explore photos in the museum. Limited to 12, registration required, chris.nail@dca.nm.gov. Free, NM Museum of Art, 107 W Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org.

Cultural Centers & Museums

4, Community Day at the Garden, 9am-5pm. Free NM residents & students, SF Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org.

5, 12, 19, 26, Wee Wednesdays, 10:30am. Parents and toddlers enjoy discovery with story time and play. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

6, 13, 20, 27 , Thursdays Are Yours, 4-6pm. Visitors can enjoy immersive exhibits for free, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

Fairs and Festivals

4, Pancakes on the Plaza, 7am-5pm. Art, music, cars and fireworks as well as breakfast treats. $12, SF Plaza, 63 Lincoln, 470-0534, pancakesontheplaza.com.

5, International Folk Art Market Community Celebration, 7-9pm. Artist procession, food, live music by Super Verza. Free, Railyard Water Tower, 332 Read, folkartmarket.org.

7-9, International Folk Art Market, 11am-6pm. 168 artists from 52 countries are invited to exhibit their art. Free 16 & under/$25 adult, ($15 on July 9, Community Day) Railyard Park, 740 Cerrillos, folkartmarket.org.

7-18, Los Alamos ScienceFest 2023. Activities for all ages celebrating Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math topics under the theme, “Energy.” Discovery Day is July 8, 9am-2pm, Ashley Pond Park in downtown Los Alamos. See website for full schedule, losalamossciencefest.com.

Library Events

1, 15, Parent and Tot Creative Movement, 10am. Preschool-age children use fun, music and stories to exercise minds and bodies with an adult. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.

5, 12, 19, 26, Youth Chess Club, 5:45pm. School-age youth can improve critical thinking skills while playing the game with other youth and new techniques, strategies and tricks are introduced. For all ages who know the basics and can play without aid. Free, Main

Library, 145 Washington, 955-6837, santafelibrary.org.

6, 13, 20, 27, Yoga and Movement for Kids, 10:3oam. Join for children’s yoga, joyful movement and kinesthetic creativity; all ages have fun getting bodies moving. Children must be accompanied by adult, mats provided but if you have one, bring it. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafelibrary.org.

8, Survival Stories Book Club, 11:30am. Talk about favorite adventure/ survival reads from the summer; for upper elementary school readers. There will be some survival skill training in the mix. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.

11, 18, 25, Wags and Words, 6-7pm. Children can practice reading skills by sharing a story with a furry friend; for early school-age children; call or email to sign up: mkatencio@santafenm.gov. Dogs are from SF Animal Shelter Pet Outreach Program. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6837, santafelibrary.org.

13, Bright Star Children’s Theatre Company, 2pm. From North Carolina, the Theatre performs “Captain Friendship.” The Bully Bandit is causing trouble and it’s up to Capt. Friendship to help solve the problem with kindness. Free, La Farge, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafelibrary.org.

13, Bright Star Children’s Theatre Company Singalong, 6pm. Bring little ones to the “Old MacDonald’s Singalong Farm,” an interactive sing-along with animal friends who help teach about sharing, caring and coming together. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.

29, All Together for Shakespeare!, 6:30-8pm. The Upstart Crows of Santa Fe (a youth Shakespeare troupe) will present scenes from “Twelfth Night” and teach stage fight craft. Free, Vista Grande Public Library, 14 Avenida Torreon, 4667323, vglibrary.org.

Music

7, Opera Makes Sense Concert for Kids, 1pm. The SF Opera presents their Young Voices Performers and fun lessons about opera; a program for the whole family. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4867, santafelibrary.org.

7, 14, 21, 28, Summer Concert Series, 7-10pm. Enjoy live music: bring chairs and grab a bite from a food truck. Free, North Railyard, 332 Read, railyardsantafe.com.

24, Festival Family Day Summer Youth Concert, 10am. A concert with the Miami String Quartet plus art activities. A meet-and-greet with the musicians, guided tours of the museum, and art activities immediately following the concert; for up to age 16. Free, St. Francis Auditorium of the NM Museum of Art, 107 W. Palace, 983-2075 ext. 113, santafechambermusic.org/education.

Science & Nature

1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Saturday Morning Guided Birding, 8:30am. Learn about

local birds. Binoculars are available if needed, dress appropriately for weather: slow walk/standing outdoors; all welcome. Free/by donation, Randall Davey Audubon Center, 1800 Upper Canyon, randalldavey.audubon.org/events/saturday-morning-guided-birding-41.

1, 8, 22, 29, Science Saturday, 2-4pm. Science fun for all ages with experiments and activities. Included w/admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

6, 13, 20, 27, Animal Meet & Greet, 12:30-1pm. Learn about the museum pets and see them eat their lunch; sometimes they come out to play. Say “hi” to Cornelius (Corn snake), Bisquick (Tortoise), Fafnir (Lizard) and Loki (Mexican Black Kingsnake). Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

6, 13, 20, 27, Seeds & Sprouts, 10:3011:30am. Kids explore nature from fun in the backyard to in-house programming and learn about seasonal growing cycles and other gardening-related practices. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

21, Bumble Bees of New Mexico, 11am-noon. Learn about the unique lives of bumble bees and get involved protecting them. Free up to age 6/$6 ages 7-17/$8 members/$12 adults, SF Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org.

21, Nighttime Mothing, 8:30-9:30pm. Investigate the moths that help pollinate the plants; lights will be provided; registration required. Free up to age 6/$6 ages 7-17/$8 members/$12 adults, Santa Fe Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, 4719103, santafebotanicalgarden.org.

Stage

3-7, 10-14, 17-21, Disney, “The Little Mermaid,” 9am-1pm. Rebellious 16year-old mermaid Ariel is fascinated with life on land and makes a dangerous deal with Ursula to become human for three days. El Museo Cultural de Santa Fe, 555 Camino de la Familia, 982-3327, pandemoniumprod.org/current-production.

19, SF Opera Family Night: “Pelléas et Mélisande.” Designated performance evenings that make attending the opera a more accessible experience for all. $15 ages 6-22/$30 first 2 adults/$50 additional adults, Santa Fe Opera, 301 Opera, 986-5900, santafeopera.org/community/family-nights.

Storytelling

6, Fun with Firefighters, 1-2pm. The Museum partners with the SF Fire Department to bring a story time where firefighters read some of their favorite books and everyone can go outside to see the firetruck. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

6, Pajama Story Time/Hora del Cuento En Pijama, 6:30pm. A social

Santa Fe Kids! Calendar Calendar Calendar

storytime where parents can receive parenting info and chat with other parents. For preschool-age children and their adults. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2828, Santafelibrary.org.

10, 24, Summer Story Time, 10-11am. A guest will read an art-related book appropriate for ages 3-5 followed by a hands-on craft. Free, NM Museum of Art, 107 W Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org.

14, Indiana Bones Storytelling Performance, 3pm. Action, adventure, history and fun. Indiana Bones weaves tales of mystery and adventure with science and history. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org. Bilingual Books and Babies, various dates, times and libraries. Books, songs and finger games for children ages 6 mo2 years. Free, santafelibrary.org. Story Time and Craft, various dates, times and libraries. Enjoy stories and a crafts with different themes. Free, santafelibrary.org.

Also of Interest

1, 15, 22, 29, Sand Play Saturday, 10:30am-noon. An opportunity for toddlers through elementary school-age children to explore, discover and think creatively through sand, water, toys and kitchen utensils. Volunteers, experts in early childhood development and staff facilitate. Free, Railyard Park, 740 Cerrillos, 316-3596, railyardsantafe.com.

4, 11, 18, 25, Santa Fe Farmers’ Market Del Sur Tuesdays, 3-6pm. The market provides fresh and local food as well as activities and family fun with pop ups by Youth Works Food Truck, Cooking with Kids, SF Children’s Museum, and others. Free, PMS, 4801 Beckner, 9834098, SantaFeFarmersMarket.com.

15, 29, Summer Movie Series, 7-10pm. Live music, bring outdoor chairs/blankets, drinks and snacks. Free, Railyard Park, 740 Cerrillos, railyardsantafe.com.

August

Arts & Crafts

4, First Friday at Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, 5-7pm. A family friendly artfilled evening. Free to NM residents, Georgia O’Keefe Museum, 217 Johnson, 946-1000, okeeffemuseum.org.

4, 18, Fine Art Fridays, 2-4pm. Exploration into the arts with guest facilitators and hands-on activities that encourage children to explore their creativity. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

6, Family Art Making, 10am-noon. Families join a fun art-making session; explore the galleries to find inspiration and create; light snacks. Free NM residents, Plaza Bldg, NM Museum of Art, 107 W Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org.

12, Create Station, 8am-1pm. This drop-in activity station provides art-

making materials plus guided activities for all ages. Free, Railyard Art Market 1607 Paseo De Peralta, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org.

19, Create Station, 10am-4pm. This drop-in activity station provides artmaking materials plus guided activities for all ages. Free, NM Art Museum, 107 W. Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org.

22, Create Station, 3-6pm. This drop-in activity station provides art-making materials plus guided activities for all ages. Free, Del Sur Farmer’s Market on south side, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org.

Classes & Workshops

1-4, Summer High School Photography Workshop, 10am-noon. Whether you are using professional DSLRs or cell phone cameras, all are welcome. Learn in the studio and out and explore digital editing tools and concepts, also explore photos in the museum. Limited to 12, registration required, chris.nail@dca.nm.gov. Free, NM Museum of Art, 107 W Palace, 476-5072, nmartmuseum.org.

2, Arts Alive!: Recycled Piñatas, 10am-2pm. Hands-on workshop, children must be accompanied by an adult. Museum free during workshop (call or email to guarantee). Groups of 6 or more contact Patricia Sigala, 476-1212, patricia.sigala@dca.nm.gov. Free, Museum of International Folk Art, 706 Camino Lejo, On Museum Hill, 476-1200, internationalfolkart.org.

3, Arts Alive!: National Honey Bee Day, 10am-2pm. Hands-on workshop, children must be accompanied by an adult. Museum free during workshop (call or email to guarantee). Groups of 6 or more contact, 471-9103, ext 5, christie@santafebotanicalgarden.org.

Free, Santa Fe Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org.

Cultural Centers & Museums

2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Wee Wednesdays, 10:30am. Parents and toddlers enjoy discovery with story time and play. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

3, Community Day at the Garden, 9am-5pm. Free NM residents & students, SF Botanical Garden, 715 Camino Lejo, 471-9103, santafebotanicalgarden.org.

3, Homeschool Heroes Seeds & Sprouts Field Trip, 10am-noon. Homeschoolers receive free admission to museum and join the Seeds & Sprouts extended program. Free, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Thursdays Are Yours, 4-6pm. Visitors enjoy immersive exhibits for free, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

13, Family Fun Day: All About Style!, 11am-3pm. Join in a celebration of expression through personal style. Participating families will receive pass

for free admission to the museum. Free, Georgia O’Keefe Museum, 217 Johnson, 946-1000, okeeffemuseum.org.

Dance

5-6, 2nd Annual Nakotah LaRance, 10am-4pm. Youth Hoop Dance Championship open to ages up to 26. See website for full details, lightningboyfoundation.com.

Fairs and Festivals

18, IndigenousWays Festival, 5-9pm. Three unique events showcasing leading Indigenous musicians, artisans and drummers along with wisdom keepers, weavers and other performers. Free, Railyards Santa FE, 740 Cerrillos, railyardsantafe.com/event/creative-natives.

19-20 Santa Fe Indian Market, 9am5pm. Free, Santa Fe Plaza, 63 Lincoln, swaia.org/2023-schedule-of-events.

25-27, TradFest. A festival of live music, jamming, camping, workshop and activities for the family with 15 national and local musicians. Free weekend passes under 13/$20 ages 32-16/$25-$80 adults. Bishop’s Lodge at Camp Stoney, 7855 Old Santa Fe Trail, santafetradfest.org.

Library Events

1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Wags and Words, 67pm. Children can practice reading by sharing a story with a furry friend; for early school-age children; call or email to sign up: mkatencio@santafenm.gov. Dogs are from the SF Animal Shelter Pet Outreach Program. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6837, santafelibrary.org.

3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Yoga and Movement for Kids, 10:3oam. Join for children’s yoga, joyful movement and kinesthetic creativity; children of all ages have fun getting bodies moving. All children must be accompanied by adult, mats provided but if you have one, bring it. Free, La Farge Library, 1730 Llano, 955-4862, santafelibrary.org.

4, Beat the Heat Movie Matinee, 3pm. Cool off in the air conditioned community room for a family friendly movie, popcorn and lemonade. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-6837, santafelibrary.org.

5, 19, Parent and Tot Creative Movement, 10am. Preschool-age use fun, music and stories to exercise their minds and bodies in a relaxed environment w/adult. Free, Main Library, 145 Washington, 955-2820, santafelibrary.org.

26, Author Visit: Ali DeMoro, “The Jealous Little Munchkin,” 11:30am. Life is thrown upside down for Munchkin the cat. Free, Southside Library, 6599 Jaguar, 955-2830, santafelibrary.org.

Music

26, SF Waldorf School’s Music de Sol, A Summer Benefit Concert, 59pm. A community event open to all with 3 live bands and local food trucks; bring

a blanket or chair. Preschool-high school now enrolling. Free for kids/$10-$25 sliding scale, SFWS, 26 Puesta de Sol, 4676431, santafewaldorf.org/sol.

Science & Nature

3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Animal Meet & Greet, 12:30-1pm. Learn fun facts about the museum pets and see them eat their lunch. Say “hi” to Cornelius (Corn snake), Bisquick (Tortoise), Fafnir (Lizard) and Loki (Mexican Black Kingsnake). Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Seeds & Sprouts, 10:30-11:30am. Kids explore nature from fun in the backyard to in-house programming, learn about seasonal growing cycles and other gardening-related practices. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

5, 12, 26, Science Saturday, 2-4pm. Science fun for all ages with exciting experiments and activities. Included with admission, SF Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

Stage

8, 12, 15, 24, SF Opera Family Nights:“Rusalka,” “Tosca,” “The Flying Dutchman,” “Orfeo.” Designated performance evenings that make attending the opera a more accessible experience for all. $15 ages 6-22/$30 first 2 adults, $50 additional adults, Santa Fe Opera, 301 Opera, 986-5900, santafeopera.org/community/family-nights.

Storytelling

3, Fun with Firefighters, 1-2pm. The Museum partners with the SF Fire Department to bring a story time where firefighters read some of their favorite books and everyone can go outside to see the firetruck. Included with admission, Santa Fe Children’s Museum, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359, santafechildrensmuseum.org.

Bilingual Books and Babies, various dates, times and libraries. Books, songs and finger games for children ages 6 months-2 years. Free, santafelibrary.org.

Also of Interest

5, 12, 19, 26, Sand Play Saturday, 10:30am-noon. An opportunity for toddlers through elementary school-aged children to explore, discover and think creatively through sand, water, toys and kitchen utensils. Volunteers, experts in early childhood development and staff facilitate. Free, Railyard Park, 740 Cerrillos, 316-3596, railyardsatafe.com.

12, 26, Summer Movie Series, 7-10pm. Bring outdoor chairs/blankets along with drinks and snacks. Free, Railyard Park, 740 Cerrillos, railyardsantafe.com.

Let’s Read Let’s Read Let’s Read

Fire Chief Fran

Author: Linda Ashman

Illustrator: Nancy Carpenter

Publisher: Astra Young Readers

Ages: 4-8 years

Do you ever wonder what it’s like to be a firefighter? Then this book is for you. This action-packed adventure is about a female firefighter named Fran, who saves her town from dangerous fires and sticky situations. I think that this book celebrates the importance of the work of firefighters while teaching kids about the life of a firefighter. This book allows kids to think about

what they will be when they grow up. Maybe they'll be firefighters like Fran!

Eleanor C., 9

DinoDogz: Eggzellent Adventure

Author: Mystery Mike McHale

Illustrator: Mike Goldstein

Publisher: Mystery Mike’s FunHouse Publishing

Ages: 2 years and older

This book is about the DinoDogz. They are part dinosaur, part dog.

The story starts off with Stephenie the Poodle being the first DinoDog to lay DinoDog eggs. Dr. D. Stroy takes the eggs to experiment on them. He says, “I will have all the power to myself from these dino eggs!” Stephenie needs to get her eggs back before Dr. D. Stroy takes the power for himself. The DinoDogz escape the lab to try to get the eggs back. They face evil guinea pigs and other obstacles. Will they get the eggs before Dr. D. Stroy takes all the power? Read this book to find out!

Thea O.H., 10

Good Housekeeping 1, 2, 3 Cook: My First Cookbook

Author: Kate Merker

Publisher: Hearst Home Kids

Ages: 4-8 years

If your kids want to learn to cook, you’ll like this cookbook. This book guides your kids through recipes so they can cook on their own. (You might need to help them every once in a while, though, and this cookbook gives you tips for how to help.)

game where if you lose, you have to give the winner your ddakji. Well, Woo loses. Read the book to find out what happens next. This book includes instructions to fold your own ddakji. It is great for learning a new and exciting game.

Andrew G., 10

Rose and Violet

Author: Barbara Alt

Publisher: Barbara Alt

Ages: 3 to 10 years

There are step-by-step instructions and photos for every recipe. Your kids can make breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert for the whole family. This cookbook makes kitchen time fun.

Kenzie G., 10

Let’s Play Ddakji

Author: Im Seo-Ha

Illustrator: Jang Joon-Young

Publisher: Brown Books Kids

Ages: 4-8 years

Do you know what ddakji is? It’s a traditional Korean game you play with tiles made from folded paper. In this book, Woo, the main character, meets up with some friends and shows off his best golden ddakji that he worked really hard to make. He and his friends play the kind of

We liked these books because they have really cool photos. They start with pleasant stories about a violet flower and a heart balloon on their adventures. We liked seeing pictures of our local Balloon Fiesta and other places because this author is from Albuquerque. Towards the end of the books, it felt like more of a photo gallery though. Some of the pictures show different places that have Rose and Violet in them. We liked it but they were a bit difficult to follow.

There wasn’t as much of a clear plot structure as other books we have read. We rate the books 3.5/5 stars.

George M., 10, & Atticus B., 10

These book reviews were written by Christine Laffler’s 4th grade students at Manzano Day school.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque

5111 Homestead Circle NW Albuquerque, NM 87120

1st Class Learning Center is a childcare center licensed by the State of New Mexico.

• Quality childcare 6 weeks to 12 years.

• ECECD subsidized care available, no sales tax charged.

• Reasonable prices & discounts.

• FOCUS Pre-K Available.

• Age appropriate curriculum through FOCUS.

• Nutritional meals mandated by CACFP, included in the price.

• All staff are CPR/First Aid certified and background cleared.

• Staff also takes childcare training mandated by ECECD. COVID-19 safe practices! Please feel free to visit our newly renovated center in Taylor Ranch, across the street from LBJ Middle School. (505) 898-5702

1stclasslearningcenter@gmail.com 1stclasslearningcenter.com facebook.com/1stClassLearningCenter

Albuquerque

The Young Scientist

By AILEEN O’CATHERINE

Scientists are story weavers. They pull together clues and evidence to create tales that sometimes seem fantastic. Is it a tall tale or a fact that animals who once roamed on land found their way to live in the ocean? Scientists think that happened with the largest animals that have ever existed on the planet — the cetaceans. Cetaceans are aquatic mammals that we know as whales, dolphins and porpoises. Scientists have put together the clues to tell the tale of how their ancestors left land to live in the water.

Cetaceans are large animals. The largest cetacean is the blue whale. It can be longer than 90 feet. But their ancestors were small, deer-like creatures called Indohyus (in-doe-HI-us). Scientists know this because of the fossil record and other clues. Indohyus once crawled and waded through swamps on four legs. When scientists X-ray a dolphin’s front flippers, they see bones that look like hands. When they X-ray a dolphin’s tail, the bones look like legs. The bones are a clue that dolphins evolved from animals that once lived on land.

About 50 million years ago, Indohyus, an animal that looked like a deer and was the size of a cat, lived in what is today India and Pakistan. Indohyus was an even-toed ungulate, meaning it had feet that look like those of giraffes, horses and pigs. The Indohyus of 50 million years ago (in the Eocene age) has a distant relative living today. It is the deer-like

water chevrotain, or African mouse-deer. The mouse-deer lives in central and southern Africa.

Scientists studied the fossils of Indohyus and learned they had dense bones. This was a clue that they spent a lot of time in the water. The

began to eat meat. Scientists think this meat-eating animal, Pakicetus (pak-ee-cee-tus), sat in the water and waited for prey. Like the crocodiles of today, they waited for animals to come to the water to drink. Then they pounced.

About 48 million to 42 million years ago, the first ancestors of whales appeared and began to go into the ocean. Their fossils are found around the world, from Pakistan to the eastern U.S. and Peru. Researchers think these animals looked more like sea lions. In the next evolutionary stage, creatures that resembled sea snakes evolved. The largest were the size of a bus and had small legs and front forearms. These forearms evolved into flippers. Another group of creatures had a fluke at the end of their tails. These are the same flukes, or flipper tails, found on the cetaceans of today.

About 41 million years ago, baleen whales emerged. About 34 million years ago, the ancestors of orcas, dolphins, porpoises, sperm whales, beaked whales and belugas appeared. The descendants of these creatures began to have streamlined heads and noses. They came up from underwater to breathe air. Their noses moved closer to the back of their heads. This made it easier for them to breathe. Cetaceans come up above water to breathe. They have blowholes on top of their heads that open when they are above water. This opening allows them to take a breath of air. When they go back under water, the blowhole closes. The blowhole method of breathing is another clue that cetaceans once lived on land.

The story of how dolphins came to live in the oceans is a long one. It is a tale well told. Scientists have found many clues by looking at fossil records of different eras. By putting together clues and pieces of evidence, they discovered an amazing story. Animals that once lived on land now live in the ocean.

A melon-headed whale (Peponocephala electra), @Creative Commons.

Albuquerque

Olivia, 7

Albuquerque

Albuquerque

Albuquerque

SUMMER FUN

Think of Albuquerque Museum as a summertime family destination — a place to create. Families

projects, in-person family-oriented workshops (free with admission), or enjoy a cool environment on a hot summer afternoon.

CREATE

CONNECT EXPLORE LEARN

• Drop in to Saturday Family Art Workshops

• Visit the family gallery

• See the outdoor sculpture garden

• Take home an art card from the museum galleries

Albuquerque Museum 2000 Mountain Road NW (in Old Town) 505-243-7255 • albuquerquemuseum.org

Albuquerque

Great Kids! A Series about Local Kids who are Changing the World

By TANIA SOUSSAN

Growing up in the South Valley, 15-year-old Cheyenne Anderson often came up against negative stereotypes about her neighborhood.

“I got a lot of hate thrown at me,” she said, adding that people told her the South Valley was dangerous and dirty.

Now she and her friend Isabel James, 15, are putting together a book of photos and poems to change those perceptions and empower younger children to feel good about themselves and where they live.

The Bosque School teens are collaborating with local painter Bill Mohr and Pulitzer Prize nominated New Mexico poet Jimmy Santiago Baca as well as other famous and amateur poets.

“Most of the books our young people are getting now are being pushed and published by global corporations and very few or any at all deal with issues we are facing today – immigration, injustice, prison reform, environmental disasters – and (they) always have those victims being people of color,” said Santiago Baca. “There are other books like Cheyenne and Isa’s that can flip it and show special moments that make up the uniqueness of our communities.”

Mohr is the Anderson’s neighbor. He was interested in publishing his paintings, which depict iconic South Valley scenes and buildings such as Taqueria El Paisa, Chavez Martial Arts, food trucks and men selling paletas. Anderson suggested they add poems. She and James put the word out for submissions in the area and at their school. They also approached the foundation of the late poet Mary Oliver, a favorite of Anderson’s, and received permission to print one of her poems.

“My main goal is so people from the South Valley, especially young children, can see themselves in a book, see their own neighborhood,” Anderson said.

James agreed, adding that she wants to “show people the South Valley is more than you read in the headlines.”

The childhood friends, who both play varsity sports and are active community volunteers, plan to self-publish and distribute the book to schools and Little Free Libraries in the South Valley. They created an Instagram account, @southvalleybook, and Anderson has been interviewed by KRQE-TV, KOAT-TV and KOB-TV.

Anderson connected with Santiago Baca through her father, who is a photographer. Santiago Baca has invited the girls to participate in a writing workshop later this year.

Both girls volunteer at La Plazita Institute, a nonprofit which works with former gang members and formerly incarcerated youth, and at Crossroads for Women, a shelter for young women coming out of prison. La Plazita is a “place to come back to and be part of the community,” Anderson said.

Los Angeles poet Luis J. Rodriguez, who works with La Plazita Institute and local South Valley youth, also contributed a poem.

“The poems we will feature in our book will address tough issues in our community like poverty, gang violence, school dropout rates, school shootings, the pandemic, racism,” Anderson said. “We want young people in our community to see themselves and where they live in the book.”

Albuquerque/Santa Fe

Isabel James (left) and Cheyenne Anderson.

Great Kids! A Series about Local Kids who are Changing the World

By TANIA SOUSSAN

Maddison Long, a senior at New Mexico Connections Academy, has her sights set on playing golf for a top tier Division I or Division II university team.

Long, who will turn 17 in July, has plenty of golf credentials to bolster her chances and she also excels academically. She regularly travels around the country to compete in tournaments, including as part of the U.S. Junior Olympics team where she played golf with kids from all over the world and represented the United States and the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, of which she is an active member.

“I love the competition,” she said. “It’s different from team sports because you’re just kind of all by yourself. It’s all on you. You put in the work. And you can meet so many people.”

She also is one of 11 youth golfers on the 2023 NB3FIT Youth Golf Team, a program created by professional golfer and Albuquerque native Notah Begay III’s NB3 Foundation focused on improving Native American children’s health. The NB3FIT team members are selected based on skill, commitment, community involvement and willingness to learn. They get learning opportunities and skills training while being challenged to consider how they will give back to their community. NB3FIT serves Native American and tribal communities in New Mexico, and Long said it gives minority groups a chance to be more represented in golf.

Long was one of 24 youth in the United States accepted into the 2023 PGA Tour Pathway to Progression Junior Development Program. Locally, she shot 80 to become this year’s district champion, helping the Volcano Vista High School Hawks take home the first-place team trophy. (She plays for Volcano Vista because New Mexico Connections does not have a golf program.) Long placed 12th out of 47 girls at the state competition.

Because golf keeps her so busy, the online schooling at New Mexico Connections Academy is a good fit. The public charter school gives her the freedom to pursue her sport without sacrificing academics.

“It’s very flexible with my schedule,” she said. “Especially during the weekdays with high school tournaments, I can catch up. I have more time to do stuff.”

Long was awarded the prestigious College Board National Indigenous Recognition Award this year for outstanding academic achievement on the PSAT exam.

She said academics are very important to her. “Golf always comes second. I really try to focus on getting good grades. I always want to make sure I’m excelling in all of my classes," she said, adding that she gets straight As and is an honors student.

With at least two hours of practice time on the golf course every day, time management and goal setting are vital. “I always want to make sure I’m doing my best and putting my best effort towards everything I do,” she said, adding that she also loves reading and music.

Long comes from a golfing family on both her father’s and her mother’s side. She started playing early and was in tournaments at age 12.

“I’m really proud of my heritage and where I come from,” Long said, adding that her father is Navajo and her mother C’oeur d’Alene. “I always try to stay connected to everything. We’re very traditional on both sides.”

“We’re a very tight knit family, and she has really stepped up when I was sick,” said Long’s mother, Kristi, who has been battling stage 4 ovarian cancer since early 2020. “She is super, super mature. She is very humble. She’s just Maddison. She’s just a very unique girl and I’m very proud of her.”

Albuquerque

Albuquerque

Kids’ Art!

Jeremiah, 9 Rae, 5

Zyon, 5 Shelby,

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Kids’ Crossword

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Albuquerque

Across

1. Branch of math

4. Exercise class

7. Language subject

10. Painting and drawing

11. Masters degree

12. Place to stay overnight

13. Parts of flowers

15. Boxer or chow

18. Ferrari or Fiat

19. New England, for short

20. Field ___

21. Proposal from an employer

23. Japanese money

24. Attempt

25. Business degree

27. Shy

29. Someone over twelve and under twenty

30. A cook

31. Place for animalsDown

Down

1. Science subject

2. Part of a relay race

3. Where you can get a degree

5. Have a meal

6. Marching musical group

8. Symbol for sodium

9. Study of the past

13. Chemistry, biology and physics are branches of it

14. Faucet

16. "___ moment, please!"

17. European language

22. Renown

26. Honey making insect

28. Coming from

29. In the direction of

Rockit

Albuquerque

Let’s

A page for kids’ party places, entertainers, services and supplies! “Let’s Party” ads cost $90 plus tax for each 2-inch by 2-inch space. Color is an additional $60 plus tax. To place your ad in our next issue, ad and payment are due by Aug. 16. For more information call 505-797-2708.

Let’s Draw! Let’s Draw Let’s Draw! Let’s Draw

Become a published artist! Create your own drawings here and send them to: New Mexico Kids!, 9100 Galaxia Way NE, Abq, NM 87111. Or you can scan your drawings and email them to kids@newmexico-kids.com. Some drawings will be selected to illustrate future issues of New Mexico Kids! Please include your name, age and hometown.

Santa Fe Area

Dance

Belisama Irish Dance & Rhythm Sol, 1225 Parkway Drive, C, SF, NM 87507. Phone: 505-795-5424; Contact: Celia; Email: celiabassettbelisama@gmail.com; Website: belisamadance.com. Dance classes for all ages 18 months and up. Irish, tap, jazz, Irish social dancing and much more! Performance, competition or recreational tracks available. All levels. We provide a nurturing and welcoming environment where all dancers can find space to be creative and confident. Financial aid available.

NDI New Mexico at The Dance Barns in Santa Fe, Phone: 505-9837646; Website: ndi-nm.org. Children ages 3-18 (and adults) join inspiring professional instructors each week to participate in high-quality dance and performance training in creative movement, ballet, modern dance, jazz, tap and hip-hop. Classes range from beginner to pre-professional levels. Open to all children in the community! Tuition is offered on a sliding scale ensuring that every child has the opportunity for an enriching experience and a sense of achievement in a nurturing and noncompetitive atmosphere.

Music

Santa Fe Youth Symphony Association – Mariachi, Orchestra, Jazz, and Chamber Music! SF, NM 87505. Location dependent on class. Phone: 505-6725565; Contact: Callie O'Buckley; Email: info@sfysa.org; Website: sfysa.org. Ages: 9-20. Enrollment: 300. Santa Fe Youth Symphony Association offers classes for beginner, intermediate and advanced players in mariachi, jazz, orchestra and chamber music. Learn an instrument for the first time, perform in the community with Mariachi Estrella or Quemazon Jazz Combo, attend exclusive musical opportunities, join the only full youth orchestra in Northern New Mexico! Audition opportunities throughout the year for intermediate and advanced classes. No audition needed for beginner classes. Financial aid available for tuition and instrument rentals! Financial aid is offered on a sliding scale based on household income and household size and can be applied to tuition or instrument rentals. Finances will never get in the way of a student participating in our programs. Reach out to us if you have any questions!

Pottery

Paseo Pottery’s Pottery Classes, 1273 Calle de Comercio, SF, NM 87507. Phone: 505-988-7687; Email: info@paseopottery.com; Website: paseopottery.as.me/classes. Ages: 5-15 years. Paseo Pottery is Santa Fe's premier clay studio, and children are welcome in all of our Pottery Classes and Experiences. Students will learn basic pottery hand-building techniques including making pinch pots, coil pots, and slab rolling and will also get to take a spin on the pottery wheel. Check out the schedule on our website where you can sign up directly: https://paseopottery.as.me/classes.

Science

Santa Fe Children's Museum’s Fine Art Friday & Science Saturday, 1050 Old Pecos Trail, SF, NM 87505, Phone: 505-989-8359; Contact: Leona Hillary, Director of Education; Email: programs@santafechildrensmuseum.org; Website: santafechildrensmuseum .org; All ages. Both programs are free with museum admission. Fridays (2pm-4pm), Saturdays (2pm-4pm). Fine Art Friday is a weekly exploration into the arts with special guests and hands-on projects! Science Saturday is facilitated science fun, every week, for all ages with exciting experiments and activities!

Skateboarding

Skate School

Skateboarding School, 825 Early St. #H, SF, NM 87505. Phone: 505-474-0074; Contact: Joe Lehm; Email: skateschoolsantafe@ gmail.com; Website: skateboardsafety.com.

Ages: 3 and up. Indoor ramps for yearround fun! After

School/Home School Programs start in September. Sessions and lessons for all abilities, ages 3 and up. Use our school boards and gear to get started. We also have a complete shop to help students gear up. Curriculum includes skateboard homework and exploring the history of skateboarding using our museum and video library. Birthdays, parent's night out, monthly events.

continued on page 36

Summer Skate Camp students at the Martha F. Ramirez Skate Park in Santa Fe. Courtesy photo.

ORCHESTRA CHAMBERMUSIC BEGINNERCLASSES PRIVATELESSONS MARIACHI JAZZ

Registrationforfallclasses opennow!

Auditionsforintermediateand advancedclasses-August26-28th

BeginningClassesfor4thgradersandup,in Violin,Viola,Cello,andGuitar

Homeoflocalperforminggroups, MariachiEstrellaandQuemazónJazz

Irish step dance, Irish social dance, creative dance/dance exploration, tap, jazz and more for 18 months to adult. High quality instruction. Nurturing environment. Opportunities to perform, compete or learn recreationally. All welcome!

Seeds&Sprouts 10:30am Hands-on natureactivities

www.sfysa.org

505-672-5565

se habla español

ScienceSaturday 2pm

Experimentswith guestscientists &STEMinstructors

continued from page 34

Albuquerque

Area Acting

New Mexico Young Actors Children's Theater, 2701 San Pedro Dr. NE, Ste. 21, Abq, NM 87110. Phone: 505-821-8055; Contact: Rachel Ribeiro; Email: info@nmyoungactors.org; Website: nmyoungactors.org; Ages: 5–19; Cost: $160 - $475; Mondays - Saturdays, after school. Since 1979, NMYA has been training children and youth in the theater arts. We offer drama classes and performances of plays and musicals to 14,000 people annually. Join us for our fall program! Learn acting skills such as improvisation, stage stunts, voice and diction, emotional recall and much more from professional artists and educators. Registration and fall schedule available at our website. Financial aid available.

Art

Albuquerque Museum School, 2000 Mountain Rd. NW, Abq, NM 87104. Phone: 505-243-7255; Contact: Elizabeth Becker; Website: albuquerquemuseum.org. Albuquerque Museum School art classes for children ages 3–14. Visit our website for class listing and registration.

Painted Iguana Art Classes, 142 Big Horn Ridge Ct. NE, Abq, NM 87122. Phone: 505-7201906. Contact: Theresa Hall, Artist & Educator; Email: paintediguana@gmail.com; Website: paintediguana.com; Ages: 6-and up. Small group classes; Tuition: $105 monthly plus tax/4 classes. Weekday afternoons – 1 1/2 hour long classes. Small classes in NE Albuquerque where students receive expert instruction on the use of quality art materials, & create in a studio setting. We work with watercolors, acrylics, clay, pastels, metals & more. Come learn new sketching skills, sculpt, or create with clay to be fired in our kiln. For the young explorers to the experienced young artists, students receive a high quality art experience in a creative, FUN, nurturing environment. Our classes encompass a complete comprehensive art program that students really enjoy. Art appreciation & creative thinking skills are developed in class. We learn about famous artists throughout history, while creating our own unique masterpieces. Join us & see why students never want their art adventure to end each day! Call or check the website in August for the after-school schedule. The Fall semester begins after Labor Day in September.

Dance

Ballet Repertory Theatre of NM's Ballet Academy, 6913 Natalie Ave. NE, Abq, NM 87110. Phone: 505-888-1054; Email: brt@brtnm.com; Website: brtnm.com. Ages: 3 years - Adults. Variety of classes available Monday - Saturday. BRT's focus is on the training of classical ballet which is paired with a Modern Dance program. At Ballet Repertory Theatre, our professionally trained teachers guide each student using a well-developed syllabus. Ballet Repertory Theatre’s goal is to create an environment that is challenging, disciplined and rigorous while, at the same time, safe, healthy and nurturing...providing a welcoming environment where every student is valued while pursuing excellence in dance.

Dance Theatre Southwest: Moving Forward!! 3805 Academy Parkway South, NE, Abq, NM 87122. Phone: 505-296-9465; Contact: Patricia Dickinson Wells; Email: dancetheatresouthwest@gmail.com;

Website: dtsw.com. Looking For An Alternative For Your Dancer? DTSW has won many national accolades and is always a safe place for dance arts education. On-going classes with new fall schedule available soon! Find us on Facebook And Instagram. Dance Education for All Ages: Toddler through Professional Level with strong Adult and Mature Adult programs also. Days/Hours: M-F: 4pm-7:30pm, Sat: 9:30am-1:45pm. DTSW offers all levels of Ballet with Pointe and Pre-Pointe, Adv. and Int. Partnering/Pas de Deux training along with Toddler classes, Discovering Dance for younger 3–4-year-olds, all levels of Modern/Contemporary and Jazz. Under the direction of Patricia Dickinson Wells, DTSW has always valued quality over quantity. Patricia and Faculty adhere to safe kinesthetically sound dance instruction in a nurturing environment. Many students have gone on to professional careers in dance companies around the world, on Broadway, in academia, and many alumni have found successful fields outside of dance thanks to the discipline they learned through dance education. DTSW will continue to provide all students with regular Full Curriculum through hybrid classes – in-studio as well as online so families have choices. DTSW continues to bring the best in dance arts education to everyone, be it in-studio or on Zoom. Scholarships available for families who cannot afford to pay full tuition.

Dance Theatre Southwest is the home of Festival Ballet Albuquerque which produces “Nutcracker in the Land of Enchantment,” “Dracula, A Love Story” and “Sacred Journeys” in collaboration with Robert Mirabal and Jock Soto, with 3 to 4 major productions each year.

Keshet Dance & Center for the Arts

Community Dance Classes, 4121 Cutler Ave. NE, Abq, NM 87110. Phone: 505-2249808; Contact: frontdesk@keshetarts.org; Website: keshetarts.org/dance-education.

Ages 2 thru Adult. Cost: $0-$20 per class. Keshet Community Dance Classes: Fall Session (Aug-Dec) - Ballet, contemporary, creative movement and more! All abilities welcome. Mixed Ability/Adaptive Dance and Fine Wine Dance (ages 55+) are also available. Unlimited non-competitive scholarships/sliding scale payments for ALL classes. Registration is ongoing.

NDI New Mexico at The Hiland in ABQ, Phone: 505-872-1800; Website: ndi-nm.org. Children ages 3-18 (and adults) join inspiring professional instructors each week to participate in high-quality dance and performance training in creative movement, ballet, modern dance, jazz, tap and hip-hop. Classes range from beginner to pre-professional levels. Open to all children in the community! Tuition is offered on a sliding scale ensuring that every child has the opportunity for an enriching experience and a sense of a achievement in a nurturing and noncompetitive atmosphere.

Horseback Riding

Liz Sanchez Stables Riding Lessons, 7622 Rio Grande NW, Los Ranchos de Abq, NM 87107. Phone: 505-898-1810; Contact: Liz Sanchez. Website: lizsanchezstables.com. Ages: 7-86; Tues-Sun, 8am-5pm; closed Mon. We are COVID compliant. Afterschool and weekend Academy riding lesson program in a covered arena. Also, full-day horse and pony camps on all APS holidays. Tax deductible. Lessons suitable for the firsttime rider to the advanced student. Group & private riding lessons also available all year. Learn how to care, groom, communicate and ride your horse. All disciplines as well as English & Western. Also bareback

Ethan McDaniel, 6, holds a painting he made during Matisse week at Painted Iguana Art Classes. Courtesy photo.

for balance. Riders progress at own pace and are placed in groups according to skill level. Check out our Child, Family & Adult Specials!! Visa and Mastercard accepted. “This is the place where people dream and horses fly.” Call the Stables for pricing and reservations.

Martial Arts

Bates Taekwondo, 2820 Richmond Blvd NE, Abq, NM 87107, Phone: 505-985-9091; Email: batestkd@gmail.com; Website: batestkd.com; Contact: Master Chee Bates. Taekwondo & fitness ages 3adult, no contracts, unlimited classes.

Science

Explora, 1701 Mountain Rd. NW, Abq, NM 87104. Phone: 505-600-6072; Contact: Reservations office, 505-6006734; Email: reservations@explora.us; Website: explora.us. Cost: Explora Members $150, Nonmembers $170 for most programs. Financial assistance available. Ages 2 1/2 - 15 Explora has 4 programs: 1. Growing a Scientist for preschoolers ages 2½ – 5 with their adults (required). Meets every other week. Participants make discoveries about science by questioning, experiencing, and investigating. 2. Science to Grow On, Grades K - 3; Meets every other Saturday 9:30–11am. Grow your child’s love for science! In Science to Grow On™, children make discoveries by questioning, experiencing and investigating. Explora educators engage children and their adults in age-appropriate activities incorporating science, art and fun! Each session focuses on a different theme. Adult participation encouraged but not required. 3. Engineering Investigators, Saturdays 9:30am. Participants investigate how things move and use that knowledge to build a series of connected actions! Meets every other week. Adults welcome but not required.

4. Home School Explorations Series, Grades: 6-9 (11-15 years). Explora members: $105; Non-members $120. Explora’s Home School Explorations Series offers your child a semester of weekly, hourlong experiential science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) programs. These are materials-rich classes that actively engage every child in inquiry activities. In these classes, children will make discoveries in STEAM through questioning, experiencing and investigating. Children will be encouraged to build their own knowledge and cultivate skills such as observation, creativity, critical thinking, cooperative learning, communication and innovation as they explore a different topic each week.

Music

Albuquerque Girl Choir, Address: 215 Locust St NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102. Phone: (505) 289-0418; Contact: Meggin Lorino; Email: abqgirlchoir@gmail.com; Website: www.albuquerquegirlchoir.org; Grades: 2nd-12th; Cost: $250/semester; Days/Hours: Thursdays 5:00-6:30. The Albuquerque Girl Choir is a choir for girls, 2nd-12th grade, who love to sing. No auditions required. The choir develops musical skills, promotes a sense of community through music, & provides opportunities to perform throughout the public. Financial Aid Available. The Open House for our Fall term is

Thursday, August 17th at 5:00pm at First Presbyterian Church (215 Locust Street NE).

Tutoring/Therapy

1 to 3 Tutors, 3620 Campus Blvd. NE, Abq, NM 87106. Phone: 505-4922299; Contact: Numair Latif; Email: info@1to3tutors.com; Website:

Founded by licensed New Mexico educator, Numair Latif, 1 to 3 Tutors is a new, local, tutoring company that offers hybrid and remote tutoring services. 1 to 3 Tutors is committed to individualized, student-centered learning. Students receive the personalized attention they deserve in an environment where they are given the opportunity to ask questions, discuss challenges, and learn at their own pace with 1 on 1 instruction. Learn, excel and gain confidence in a variety of subjects. Summer sessions available!

Huntington Learning Center, 8201 Golf Course Rd. NW, Ste. B-3, Abq, NM 87120. Phone: 505-797-3073; Contact: Sohale Mufti; Website: huntingtonhelps.com.

Grades: K-12; Monday to Saturday. Year after year we continue to offer children, ages 5-17, supplemental instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, study skills, phonics and related areas, as well as SAT/ACT test preparation. The positive encouragement of our staff and certified teachers, combined with individualized instruction based on our diagnostic testing, is what we believe sets us apart and continues to make our program a success.

Tutor-Me, 5528 Eubank NE, Ste. 6, Abq, NM 87111. Phone: 505-307-4170; Contact: Sandra Akkad, Founder. Web site: mytutorme.com. Covid-safe Environment. Ongoing online tutoring. Focusing on K-12. Homework Help. Tutor-Me is a premier learning center that offers a hands-on approach when helping students. We stimulate & motivate while enriching and helping our students. Tutor-Me provides a safe, conducive and nurturing environment. We offer classes in all Math, Reading, Reading Comprehension, Phonics, English, Science, standardized testing, PSAT, ACT, SAT and more. Classes in Spanish, French and Arabic. We offer a free trial. Check us out on Facebook at facebook.com/mytutorme.

We Need to Talk and More! Therapy, 3351 Candelaria Rd. NE, Suite E, Abq, NM 87107. Phone: 505-675-0689; Contact Malia Vigil; Email: weneedtotalkllc@gmail.com; Website: weneedtotalkandmore.com. Ages: Birth-65. We Need to Talk and More! Therapy provides speech, language, feeding and occupational therapy.

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Keeping You Healthy

At CHRISTUS St. Vincent, we are always committed to providing the best and safest health care to you and your family. From routine check-ups or vaccinations to acute illnesses – we are always ready to care for you and your loved ones. Visit us in one of our five conveniently located Primary Care locations.

Adult & Family Care

Offering Family Medicine for newborns, children, adults and seniors

465 St. Michael’s Dr. Suite 230 Santa Fe, NM 87505

Arroyo Chamiso Pediatrics

Offering Pediatric Care for newborns through18 years of age

465 St. Michael’s Dr., Suite 200 Santa Fe, NM 87505

Entrada Contenta Health Center

Offering Pediatrics, Family Medicine, and Urgent Care

5501 Herrera Dr. Santa Fe, NM 87507

Family Medicine Center

Offering Family Medicine for newborns, children, adults and seniors

2025 Galisteo St. Santa Fe, NM 87505

Pojoaque Primary Care

Offering Family Medicine for newborns, children, adults and seniors

5 Petroglyph Circle, Suite A Pojoaque, NM 87506

Call (505) 913-DOCS (3627) to schedule your primary care appointment today.

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