Sacramento Parent June 2017

parent June 2017

Best Dad Ever...

When to Give Kids a Phone

PARTY PICKS THEY’LL LOVE! sacramentoparent.com

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community event will showcase the Sacramento area’s wide array of Family-friendly entertainment Children's activities Demonstrations The first-ever Cover Kid Search for children 5-12 years of age! ®

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parent

on our cover

June 2017

Meet Mateo, he just turned one! He loves cake and having fun! His favorite song is the ABC’s, now he’s working on 123’s!

Photography by Missy Wakefield

contents JUNE 2017

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departments 9 FUN FINDS

Picks for Pop

21 CRAFTY

For the Birds

29 CAMP

Enriching Local Activities

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features 10 Clever Ideas for #1 Dad 13 Turn That Frown Upside Down 22 Stepdad, You’re Important, Too 25 Camping with Kids 35 When to Get Your Child a Phone

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around town 38 CALENDAR 25th Anniversary Edition

40 ON STAGE Peppy Productions

41 ON DISPLAY The Unexpected

42 ON REPEAT Welcome Back, Summer Nights!

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Special Events to Kick-off Summer Break

special advertising section 17 A TO Z PARTY GUIDE

CAMP ISSUE

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Since 1992

Excellence in Education for Your Child, Peace of Mind for You.

INFANT - PRIVATE 5TH GRADE FOLSOM & GRANITE BAY

BRIGHTON FAMILIES CONSIDER US THEIR FAMILY Parents choose Brighton for our dedication to loving care of their children, quality staff and exemplary programming, they stay because of the community they have become a part of.

From birth through 5th Grade, children thrive at Brighton. They are loved, they are challenged and they are safe. Each Brighton staff member, from teacher to administrator, prizes the relationships and welfare of their families.

CALL US TODAY - to learn more about our schools in Folsom and Granite Bay. We look forward to sharing with you how Brighton Schools will enrich your family’s life and create students who love to learn.

sa

Accredited by NAEYC and WASC Lic. #343601083/ 343601084/ 310321558/ 310321560/ 310321556/ 343604082 6

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BRIGHTONSCHOOLS.COM | 916-353-1681

We’re officially a quarter of a century this month! As I flipped through the 25 yearold, yellowing newsprint, it seemed fitting to share a snippet from the very first editor’s note.

co-publisher | SUE LETO COLE co-publisher | SHELLY BOKMAN editor | SHANNON SMITH assistant editor | CHRISTINE QUARRY art directors | PATRICE VAN DAM, Studio PR

JILL LENDAHL, JillLendahl.com

photographer: Missy Wakefield contributing writers: Brittany Fuller | Gayla Grace | Christina Katz Stephen Muff | Jesse Neve | Christine Quarry Shannon Smith | Scott Steinberg Diana Watkins

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Raychell Sarcomo raychell@sacramentoparent.com Lindsay Trenz lindsay@sacramentoparent.com Cheryl Waples cheryl@sacramentoparent.com

BILLING QUESTIONS

Shelly Bokman | (530) 888.0573 shelly@sacramentoparent.com

“We are proud to bring you the premiere issue of [Sierra] Parent, a product written by people from our own communities.

Our goal is to promote quality family life and help you maintain balance between nature and culture.

We’ve included information on health, child development, parenting, recreation and we hope that our extensive calendar of events, attractions and classes will provide endless opportunities for family fun.

This is your news-magazine, with your support and input, it will continue to grow and improve.”

-Shelly and Sue

instagram.com/ facebook.com/ SacParent SacramentoParent

pinterest.com/ SacParent

twitter.com/ SacParentMag

While in many ways we’re different, much remains the same.

Shelly and Sue are still bringing ideas to the table (like our first-ever EDfair next month) and we thank you immensely for allowing us to grow alongside your families!

With gratitude, Shannon, Shelly, Sue & the Sac Parent team

FAMILY PUBLISHING, INC. Sacramento Parent Magazine Subscription Rate: one year, $30 PO Box 598 Auburn, CA 95604 p (530) 888.0573 f (530) 888.1536 sacparenteditor@gmail.com | www.sacramentoparent.com

Sacramento Parent magazine is published monthly by Family Publishing, Inc. It is available free of charge at over 1,000 locations throughout Greater Sacramento.

Sacramento Parent magazine welcomes letters, articles, artwork and photos from our readers. Sacramento Parent is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission.

Opinions expressed by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily the opinions of this publication.

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fun finds

Picks for Pop!

By Christine Quarry

We’ve got some ideas to keep Dad in style, and happy inside and outside the office! Plus, we’ve even found something to make him feel like a kid again. Happy Father’s Day! Enter to win a couple of these great gifts at SacramentoParent.com/win-it

WIN IT!

100% All Natural Products Same Day Service Peace of Mind Prevention

Montauk Duffel

From the office to a weekend getaway, Dad will travel in style with this multi-purpose duffel. Featuring a removable fully padded 15.6" laptop compartment, Internal iPad®/tablet pocket, front zippered organizer section with key clip and a removable/adjustable shoulder strap. $119.00 | www.solo.echoscomm.com/fathers-daybest-bags-for-dad#

Deanna Fox 916-220-9994

"Daddy Since" Keychains by artbymorgie

Give Dad a lucky penny this Father’s Day! This personalized keychain will stay close to his heart. $9.95 | www.etsy.com/listing/384723610

WIN IT!

NuYo Frozen Yogurt

Dad can chill-out this Father’s Day with a $100 gift card to NuYo Frozen Yogurt! Top quality yogurt that meets the National Yogurt Association criteria for “Live and Active Culture Yogurt.” This means it’s delicious and great for your body but shhhh, don’t tell Dad! $100 Gift Card | www.NuyoFrozenYogurt.com

MiniPresso GR Espresso Maker

Give Dad the most compact espresso machine, capable of making quality espresso, anywhere! Easy caffeine on-the-go, hand operated, no batteries and no electric power needed. $48 | www.amazon.com/dp/B00VTA9F6U

PAC-MAN Animated LED Desk Clock

Full Color LED's display the time and periodically display with authentic, pixel-perfect animations of PAC-MAN™ and the ghosts! Check out the clock in action at https://youtu.be/2MTn2QNU2-o. $49.99 | www.amazon.com/dp/B0161ZWIIO

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For the Best Dad in the World

By Jesse Neve

I am used to the fact that I am usually behind on laundry and regular household chores. The car is never clean. The mail sometimes goes unopened. It’s just a part of my life of being a stay-at-home-mom of four kids. But, I consciously make an effort to succeed in the things that really matter—things that will enrich the kids’ lives and make the world (theirs and the greater world) a little bit better.

Each year, I make it a point to spend some time with the kids brainstorming ways that we can make Father’s Day special for my husband. I want them to understand and show him that we appreciate how much he does for our family.

WE LOVE YOU DAD! When my crew was 1, 3, 5 and 7, we sat at lunch one day, discussing Father’s Day. The kids were always willing to break out the markers and draw a picture or make a card. But, I was looking for something that he would enjoy for years to come.

I’m not sure how we came up with the idea originally, but that afternoon, I grabbed the stepladder from the garage and we headed outside. The kids worked together planning and lying down in the grass in the shape of the letters that spelled out “We Love You Dad!” I took photos of each “letter,” and printed them out together. Of course, it was a huge hit with Dad. The finished product has had a prominent place in our home ever since and it never fails to attract the attention of visitors.

GIVE DAD A HAND Another year, we found a plain white T-shirt and, using fabric paint, we decorated it with the kids’ hand prints. As the years go by, it’s fun to have them compare their current hand size with their size back then. And Dad proudly 10 JUNE 2017 sacramentoparent.com O Celebrating

wears his “handy” shirt. The kids’ enjoyed that project so much that we’ve created a number of different “Dad shirts” over the years.

NUMBER ONE DAD One year, we started a couple weeks early and we mixed up an easy batch of homemade clay. The kids formed it into the shape of a trophy. We secretly hid the trophy high on a shelf to let it dry (which, by itself was super exciting for the kids— to have a secret “hidden” away). When it was dry, the kids painted it and it was presented to Dad. #1 Dad! Homemade Clay Recipe 2/3 cups water 2 cups salt 1 cup cornstarch ½ cup cold water In a saucepan, stir salt and water on high for 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and add cornstarch and cold water. Stir until smooth, then return it to heat and cook until thick. Allow to cool until able to be touched, then knead until cool and shape.

Allow to dry, then paint.

25 years

YOU CAN DO IT, DAD! The year that Dad was between jobs, our little artists illustrated a book filled with new career ideas for him. They wrote encouraging words and drew jobs that they thought he would be good at. Or, at least jobs that they would like him to have. He was never really sold on the idea of working at Taco Bell simply for the theoretical free tacos. But, the book was heartfelt and ended up being our coffee table book.

“PICNIC WITH DAD” DAY Early in our family life, we began “Picnic with Dad” day. I decided that during the appropriate picnic months, we would pick out a day each week and bring a picnic lunch to share with Dad at work.

I created a big picnic lunch, complete with cupcakes or cookies to celebrate the event. I packed up baby Sarah and the lunch and we sprawled out in the shade of the big old oak tree on a picnic blanket outside of Dad’s office to share a special mid-day hour together as a family. It was such a nice diversion for all of us. It was

a pleasant excuse for Dad to see his family during the workday, and a fun “field trip” for the two of us.

As the years progressed, the dynamic of our picnic day changed. Our family increased to four children and one grandfather living with us. I still made the sandwiches, but everyone was in charge of different parts of the lunch—vegetables, fruit, napkins, drinks, treats. Everyone knew his or her role for our special “Picnic with Dad” days.

Now, we pile out of the van with our wheeled coolers and spread our three picnic blankets on the lawn. The special time together now includes running around and playing, too. The kids tell Dad about their morning adventures and what they plan to do for the rest of the day. Dad gets to take off his shoes and sit back and watch the scene as everyone burns off their lunch. We will always be thankful for the wonderful extra hour of family time that we have created each week.

Regardless of HOW it’s done, the important idea to get across to the kids is love and appreciation for Dad and for all that he does for our family. He’s our hero, and we want to show him how much he means to us.

Jesse Neve is a freelance writer, wife and mother of four. Her life goal is to bring a little smile to everyone she passes.

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Professional Clown & Entertainer

• Balloon Twisting • Face Painting • Glitter Tattoos • Clown Magic Shows

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Turn That Frown Upside Down

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By Brittany Fuller

Throughout history, clowns and costumed characters have been known to make people laugh and smile. However, every so often a person will feel hesitant and even fearful when it comes to cozying up to clowns and characters. And sometimes, this becomes evident by the reaction of our younger and much smaller generation. What do you do when a child is anxious around clowns or characters?

Trudy Richardson, aka Oops C Daisy, has been a professional clown for 25 years. Although she wasn’t raised in a circus environment, she said the percentage of children and adults that suffer from coulrophobia (the fear of clowns), is smaller than one may think.

“I do not feel that most children have a fear of clowns,” said Richardson. “Children have different temperaments, as do adults, and to just single out fear of clowns is not really true. For example, children who react to the sight of a clown are doing so because we do not look ‘normal’ in their eyes. The same with Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, and any different looking character. If you want an average, I would truthfully have to say less than 10 percent.”

But for those that are, Richardson shares her experience and notes that every situation with children is different. As a professional, she is always scanning a room to observe the crowd and pay special attention to the children’s facial expressions when she is in costume. This, she said, tells her a lot. If the child looks scared and the parent is not engaging in the situation she waves and backs away.

vorce, and losing her identity and self-worth, she married her high school sweetheart who stood beside her, and encouraged her when she found a clown group that she wanted to be a part of.

“When I was able to make people laugh, it fueled my desire to be a better clown and bring smiles and joy to others,” said Richardson. “My business is to smile and laugh, and hopefully (help others) forget their troubles...for a little while, anyway.”

“If a child looks a little startled or afraid and the parent is engaged in the situation, and is being helpful by interacting with me, then I will play peeka-boo from a distance and blow kisses and wave,” said Richardson.

Clowns, Richardson said, are trained this way. The worst situation is when a parent brings a crying child up and tries to convince the child that she is funny.

“They need their space and time,” said Richardson. “The best is when the parent interacts from a distance, so that

the child feels safe and secure and as the child watches how their parent interacts with us, it demonstrates positive reinforcement.”

Richardson said it’s even better when both parents are present. She has noticed that if one parent comes up for a hug or a handshake, this can help to ease the worried child.

Richardson said her career as a clown was inspired after a Ringling Brothers act when she was 5-years-old. She said she realized what a gift it is to make people laugh as a clown.

After a bad marriage, nasty di-

Richardson implied that the entertainment business could be to blame for causing a fear of clowns. She believes movies like “IT”, and impersonators dressing up with scary clown masks, as well as parents that let their children watch these types of shows, causes a negative image to something that should be looked at with joy.

“I have seen parents who have a slight fear of clowns inadvertently, presenting a negative vibe to their children, too,” said Richardson. “Really though, I have only encountered this a couple of times in my whole career. Most parents are aware of their own fears and try not to impose that fear on their children.”

Frown continued on page 15

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Book your Princess Party for the month of June or July and receive $50 OFF our deluxe party package when you book a princess with THE PARTY PRINCESSES

Call for details 916.788.4386

FREE

Host a Magical Birthday Party!

Choose from 5 packages!

COME JOIN THE PARTY! ALL AGES & THEMES

OPEN PLAY

Tuesday-Friday 9-12pm till August 18th Please visit website for play times when kids are on school break.

SUPER UPGRADE for your PARTY! (all summer) Coupon must be used at time of booking. Expires 8/31/17 .

916.371.2386 2939 Promenade Street West Sacramento

Now able to BOOK ONLINE (Please mention this ad when booking online)

www.TheBounceSpot.com

Ask about our birthday parties at PIRATE’S COVE, the new Aqua Park!

Summer Camp Dates: June 12th thru August 18th

More information & reservations: www.fairytaletown.org (916) 808-7062 O 7 D pen ays !

or n f e!

Fu ryon e Ev

Just off I-5 8 Minutes from Sacramento airport

Camp Time 8:30am-Noon Extended Camp 8:30am-3:00pm

Slot Car Racing Fun & Hobbies!

Educational Supplies for Parents, Teachers & Homeschoolers May not be combined with any other offer.

Expires 6/30/17

A Family Fun Center!

6831 Lonetree Blvd / E102 / Rocklin / CA / 95765

FTHobbies.com

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Now Registering!

Fall Classes!

Frown continued from page 13

Richardson stated that for generations, clowns were considered outcasts of society, weirdo’s, and circus clowns.

She said people do not understand how much training, education, money and time goes into being a really good clown.

“I have been working on this my entire clown career,” said Richardson. “I have had the opportunity to teach several children simple magic tricks and balloon twisting, who have grown up and pursued being magicians and balloon twisters…I have had the opportunity to share my clown story with young teenagers at

DeWitt lockup and I received some very personal letters from them about wanting to make better choices and change their lives. I have taught at conventions, done clown skits at bible conferences and I’ve brought many smiles, as well as tears. There is nothing sweeter than little arms giving you hugs and saying, ‘I love you clown.’”

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Fortunately, there are many professionals like Oops C Daisy, who can turn just about any frown upside down. You can find many of them right here, in Sacramento Parent’s Party Guide.

Brittany Fuller is a local freelance writer. In addition to her work as a journalist, she is an aspiring author. When she is not writing she enjoys reading, gardening, working out, and spending time with her husband and three children.

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$5 OFF

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A to Z Party Guide 2017 A Dash of Panache

Roseville | 916-788-4386

A Dash of Panache offers a variety of themed birthday parties for boys and girls of all ages. Call for details 916.788.4386 www.ADashOfPanache.com

Amazing Animal World

Greater Sacramento | 916-751-8923

We bring live, exotic animals directly to YOU! We blend entertainment, education and humor to spice up any birthday party, after school program, or special event. www.AmazingAnimalWorld.com

Auburn Racquet Club Bir thday Par ties Auburn | 530-885-1602

Birthday Parties at the Club! Pool Parties!

Tennis Parties! Dodgeball Parties!

Traditional party games! Themes available and much more! www.ar-fc.com

Bounce4fun Inflatables

Greater Sacramento | 916-956-8053

Make this year's party memorable with Bounce4fun Inflatables. All of the inflatables we offer are clean and safe. We pride ourselves on good service and the best rates! www.Bounce4FunInflatables.com

The Bounce Spot

West Sacramento | 916-371-2386

The Bounce Spot, Sacramento’s super party center, offers: the best Birthday parties, a Smart, Fit & Healthy Kids afterschool program, and Fun & Fitness camps. www.TheBounceSpot.com

Byers Gymnastics

Roseville | Citrus Heights 916-781-2939

Byers offers Birthday parties every weekend! One hour of gym time and a ½ hour in our party room! See our website for more details. www.ByersRoseville.com

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Celebrations! Par ty Rentals and Tents

Fliptastic, Gymnastics, Dance and Cheer

Celebrations! has been Sacramento's leading full service event rental and production company since 1991. We offer a vast inventory of specialty linen, flatware, glassware, china, chairs, tent, flooring, etc. www.CelebrationsPartyRentals.com

Fliptastic has awesome Party Packages, Kids Night Out and teaches children Gymnastics, Dance and Cheer in a safe, great positive atmosphere. www.Fliptastic.biz

Roseville | 916-773-2133

CSD Aquatics

Carmichael | 916-487-3547

Funderland

Sacramento | 916-456-0131

Wackford Aquatic Center Elk Grove | 916-405-5600

Discover Pool Parties this summer! Pool Parties are great for any event you are celebrating, from your child's birthday party, a graduation or even a family reunion! www.YourCSD.com/233/Pool-Parties

Dilly Dally the Clown

Greater Sacramento | 530-662-5882

3 Hours to party! 1 hour party area time followed by 2 hours of unlimited riding, tickets, birthday gifts & more! Book online today! www.FunderlandPark.com

Granite Arch

Rancho Cordova | 916-852-ROCK (7625)

Customize your party any way you’d like, with balloons and games. Call Dilly Dally and she’ll help you plan the perfect entertainment for your party or event! www.DillyDallytheClown.com

GO VERTICAL this birthday at Granite Arch! Parties include: 2 hours of staff managed climbing and up to 1 hour in the party area. Call for rates; minimum of 6; reservations required. www.GraniteArch.com

Extra Innings

Great Scot the Magic Dude

Choose from different party packages all equipped with batting time, party attendant, private table in our spacious party area, invitations, pizza, soda, paper goods, and a whole lot of fun! www.ExtraInnings-Rocklin.com

Sacramento's premiere children's magician, specializing in magic for children and families for over 20 years. Satisfaction guaranteed. Available for all events! www.GSTMD.Com

Rocklin | 916-253-3593

Fairytale Town

Elk Grove | 916-806-2442

Mad Science of Sacramento

Greater Sacramento | 916-779-0390

Sacramento | 916-808-7462

Host a magical birthday party that your children will remember for a lifetime.

Choose from 4 themed packages: Royal Party, Pirate Party, Barnyard Bash, and Green Thumb Party. There is also a rental space in Sherwood Forest. www.FairytaleTown.org

Serving the entire Sacramento Valley and beyond, Mad Science has fun and interactive parties down to a science! Held at your location, or ours. Themes: Air Blast, Buried Treasure, Wizards & Potions, Galactic…. www.Sacramento.Madscience.org/ birthdayparties.aspx

Fast Track Hobbies

The Par ty Princesses

Slot car race party: An extreme racing rush for all speed enthusiasts! An exciting past-time that comes from the time before video games and bounce houses. Action – packed excitement for all ages. www.FTHobbies.com

​ e Party Princesses provide magical Th character performers and princesses for children’s birthday parties, book today for an unforgettable event! www.ThePartyPrincesses.org

Rocklin | 916-784-1722

Greater Sacramento | 916-741-3148

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A to Z Party Guide 2017

Raising a child with special needs?

Sacramento Parent is here to encourage, support and connect you with resources and other parents.

Rocknasium

Davis | 530-757-2902

Add adventure to your child’s next birthday at Rocknasium–Davis’ local climbing gym. We offer 2 hours of fully staffed climbing- equipment, instruction, and more! www.Rocknasium.com

Sacramento Zoo

Sacramento | 916-808-8556

Have your next birthday at the Zoo! Offering private party rentals, carousel rides, Starlight Safari’s & more. Tons of add-on options & accommodations ensures fun for all ages! www.SacZoo.org/birthdayparties

Sevilla Magic FX

Greater Sacramento | 916-531-2269

We provide magic shows, Princess, Sci-Fi and Superhero character appearances for birthday parties and special events. Plus, Face Painting; Balloon Twisting, Clowns; Mascots and Magical Effects such as theatrical evaporative snow, as well as illusions for movies and theater. www.SevillaMagicFX.com

Sky High Spor ts Rancho Cordova 916-853-JUMP(5867)

Affordable fun and fitness for active families, Sky High Sports encourages everyone to bounce off the walls! Unforgettable birthday parties are our specialty.

Sac.SkyHighSports.com

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Tricks Gymnastics, Dance & Swim

Granite Bay | Folsom | Sacramento 916-791-4496 | 916-351-0024 916-481-4496

Enjoy a Gymnastics or Dance birthday party at TRICKS. We’ll handle everything, while you’ll sit back and enjoy the smiles! www.TricksGym.com

Velocity Island Park

Woodland | 530-723-6885

Birthday Parties at “Pirates Cove” the New Aqua Park at Velocity Island in Woodland, CA. Call for more information. www.VelocityIslandPark.com

World of Wonders Science Museum Lodi | 209-368-0969

Offering private science-based birthday parties for all ages. Children’s parties are available on the weekends with the WOW’s party scientist! www.WowScienceMuseum.org

Xtreme Craze

Rocklin | 916-259-CRAZ (2729)

Best Party in town! With a 7,000 Square Foot state-of-the-art multi-level laser tag arena, three huge bounce houses, a full arcade with redemption center and a café serving fresh made-to-order pizza. www.XtremeCraze.com

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THE PARTY PRINCESSES

provide magical character performers and princesses for children's birthday parties.

Book today for an unforgettable event!

(916) 741-3148 www.thepartyprincesses.org Celebrating 25 years O sacramentoparent.com

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UPCOMING

Fortune aims to create a TK-12 school system where students, faculty and parents embrace and strive to achieve a standard of excellence in academic achievement, ethics and citizenship.

Students will participate in a rigorous, college preparatory program that is characterized by low student-teacher ratios, an extended instructional day, frequent assessments to monitor student progress and a series of intensive interventions that are focused on quickly accelerating the learning of scholars who are performing below grade level. When students graduate from Fortune School, they will be self-motivated, industrious, critically-thinking students who are passionate about learning and committed to service.

They will be well prepared to meet the challenges of high school, higher education, and employment, and fully embrace their rights and responsibilities as citizens in our democratic society.

ENROLLMENT MEETINGS Hazel Mahone College Prep 3750 Rosin Ct. | Sacramento Thursday, June 8th @ 5:30pm Tuesday, June 20th @ 5:30pm

William Lee College Prep

3300 Stockton Blvd. | Sacramento Tuesday, June 6th @ 5:30 PM Thursday, June 15th @ 5:30 PM

Alan Rowe College Prep

9424 Big Horn Blvd. | Elk Grove Wednesday, June 14th @ 4:00pm

Ephraim Williams College Prep

3300 Stockton Blvd. |Sacramento Tuesday, June 6th @ 5:30 PM Thursday, June 15th @ 5:30 PM

Now Enrolling for Summer & Fall The Granite Bay Schoolhouse offers children the right environment to Learn, Play and Grow. We teach children to love to learn! Through literature-based projects, hands-on math curriculum and a loving environment, our goal is to provide children the right fundamentals to be successful in school.

8265 Sierra College Blvd #322 Roseville, CA 95661 www.granitebayschoolhouse.com 20 JUNE 2017 sacramentoparent.com O Celebrating

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DIY Bird Feeder

By Lady DIY The Sacramento Valley is home to dozens of different species of birds. With the arrival of warm weather, it’s a perfect time to get outside and see some of our feathered-friends in action! This month’s Crafty is a fun, upcycled project, using materials you probably already have on hand.

Supplies Needed: Plastic container (I used a peanut butter jar) Twine or yarn Birdseed Small stick Hot glue gun Utility knife Scissors Step 1: Wash and dry the plastic container. Remove any labels.

Tip: To help remove labels, soak the container in warm, soapy water. Extra stubborn labels can be removed with olive oil.

Step 2: Cut a small hole (about 2-3” in diameter) about 2” from the bottom of the container.

Carden School

Step 3: Cut a small “X” about an inch underneath the hole. Insert the stick through the “X” and then secure with hot glue.

Step 4: Cut a piece of twine or yarn about 12” long to make the hanger. My twine was a little thin, so I braided three pieces together to make it stronger. Hot glue each end of the twine hanger to opposite sides of the lid. Don’t be afraid to use lots of glue to make it secure (we’ll be covering it up).

of Sacramento

A Distinctive Alternative in Classical Education

Step 5: Wrap the lid in twine, securing with hot glue.

Step 6: Fill with birdseed, hang, and wait for your “dinner guests” to arrive!

Bonus! Visit www.sacramentoaudubon.org for more bird-watching activities, including a checklist of birds common to our area.

Lady DIY lives in Rocklin and stays home with her three boys. When she’s not too busy with DIY projects around the house, she enjoys gardening, fitness and living the glamorous life of a baseball/soccer/football mom.

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Dear Stepdad, You’re Impo

By Gayla Grace In the early years of our marriage, I wondered if we would make it to our next anniversary. Blending four children, grappling with our stepparent roles while learning to parent together, combating ex-spouses, and trying to stay afloat with job, church and community obligations seemed impossible.

As we celebrated 21 years of marriage recently, I'm thankful we never quit.

Stepparenting should be viewed as a marathon, not a sprint, with perseverance a key ingredient. If a marathoner begins a race with even a small consideration to quit when it gets hard, he won't finish. When the muscle cramps slow his gait, when the road stretches endlessly, when his breathing labors under the hot sun, as others stumble along the way, he has to decide he won't give in to the temptation to stop. The choice is daunting.

It's no different as a stepparent. Without a firm commitment to trudge through the challenges that come your way, you won't make it. It's tough. Very few stepfamilies escape what stepfamily expert Ron Deal calls the "wilderness wanderings."

The wanderings will look and feel differently in each home, but most stepfamilies will endure days, and possibly years, of hardship and suffering. If you don't determine ahead of time you will persevere when it gets tough, you will likely turn back.

You won't find the blessings that accompany your journey in the end. Stepfamily statistics confirm that.

My husband, Randy, recently experienced the privilege of walking his youngest stepdaughter, Jodi, down the aisle. His face radiated with joy. Tears welled in my eyes as I recounted his years of commitment to my girls. But Randy will be the first to tell you he is an imperfect stepfather. Although his stepdaughters now love him dearly, it hasn't always been that way.

Jodi was almost three when we married and my oldest daughter, Jamie, was five. Randy had a difficult time with Jamie from the beginning. She didn't want another dad in her life and she made that clear to him.

He overheard a conversation between the two girls one night during our first year of marriage. "I hate him too, I can't believe Mom married him," Jamie told Jodi. There was little love, or even like, between Randy and the girls in the beginning.

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During our second year of marriage, Randy left the house one evening and called from a nearby hotel. "I'm not coming home tonight. I'm not sure I'm coming home again. I can't cope with the ongoing conflict between me and you and the kids."

It was a tough season. Randy brought two children to the marriage also, and attempting to blend our four kids, ages 3-10, while learning how to stepparent and parent together proved harder than we anticipated. But neither of us wanted to endure another divorce. Randy and I began counseling that year to work through the bumps.

Jamie challenged us on every turn during her teenage years.

If Randy punished her in the slightest, she threatened to call Child Protective Services. She ran away more times than I can remember (but thankfully never went far). After one particularly difficult day with defiant behavior, Randy took Jamie's cell phone and threw it to the ground. As it busted into several pieces, Jamie began yelling at us both. The night didn't end well. And I wasn't sure the sun would come up the next day.

But it did. And Randy didn't give up on his stepparenting journey with Jamie.

When she came into driving age, Randy wanted to teach her to drive. She tested every ounce of his patience. They would come in from a driving session hardly talking to one another, Jamie's anger brewing over. But the next day, they were at it again.

During her high school years, Jamie participated in competitive cheerleading. Randy would jokingly say, "Do you call cheerleading a sport?" The ongoing drama with other cheerleaders, out-of-town competitions, and continuous suction cup to his wallet threw Randy into stress overdrive. His grumpiness overshadowed his joy at times. But he didn't quit supporting Jamie and the things that made her tick.

portant, Too As Jamie left for college, I'll never forget her words to him. With a wrap-around hug and a smile on her face she said, "Thank you for being such a great dad to me. I love you!"

Jamie travelled to Mozambique, Africa for an eight-month missionary journey after she graduated from college. She left in early summer, and we knew it would be hard to communicate with her while she was gone. As I suspected, though, she made sure to call on Father's Day despite the time difference. When Randy answered the phone, I saw tears in his eyes as he listened to Jamie recount life-changing experiences. He knew he had contributed to her stability and maturity that enabled her young life to now make a difference with others. She closed with the words every stepfather loves to hear, "Happy Father's Day, Dad. I love you. I miss you."

Do you have to be a perfect stepparent to have a meaningful relationship with your stepchildren? No! Randy's stepdaughters, Jodi, now 24, and Jamie, now 27, love their imperfect stepdad.

Why? How did that happen?

Randy never quit. He got up when he fell down. He sought help when he needed answers. He cried. He prayed. He struggled. He fought.

He apologized. He forgave. He smiled with gritted teeth. But he never quit.

Is it a cycle? Yes. You take one step forward and two steps backward. You celebrate a season of growth and then start a season of despair. You gain the insider status one day and feel like an outcast the next.

Does that mean you failed? No! Stepparenting is tough. Mistakes are made. Misunderstandings happen. And variables outside our control influence stepfamily relationships. But there are new tomorrows. A fresh start to work through differences. Hope for harmony.

As a stepdad, you've been given an opportunity to influence a child's life like no one else can.

Are you up for the challenge? I hope so. Because my husband will tell you: your efforts count!

And there are rewards to stepparenting, even when you're not perfect...but oftentimes they're at the end of the journey.

Gayla Grace writes, speaks, and coaches on family and stepfamily issues and holds a master's degree in Psychology and Counseling. She and her husband Randy have five children in their blended family, ages 16 to 31.

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Individualized Hands-On Learning Comprehensive core subject matter Project based life and social sciences’ curricula Practical life skills at all ages Art, Music, P.E., & Enrichment Classes

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Camping with Kids

By Stephen Muff One of the greatest myths to tell around the campfire at night is that your life stops when you have kids. This legend seems to be persistent, and one reason might be that people are not sure how to adapt old hobbies to having the little people around. One such hobby that takes a little modification is camping.

In 1848, James Marshall discovered gold at Sutter’s Mill in Coloma, California. Not long after, the region swarmed with miners, hoping to find some for themselves. Camps appeared throughout the greater Sacramento region.

To this day, it is still a destination for camping, and for good reason. A short drive from the capitol can put you at a number of powerful waterfalls, lush meadows full of wildflowers and butterflies, and on the banks of quiet lakes.

BEFORE THE TRIP Get your kids involved and build excitement. Ask them if they want to go play in the water or visit an enchanted (Tahoe National) forest. It’s best to go somewhere close and only one night if you’re new at this. If you go for any longer, pack a washtub for the kids. Also, if you haven’t done so already, go pick out a sleeping bag with them. My daughter says her polkadot bag is one of the best parts of camping.

Buy a game or two before you go and try it out at home. “Pass the Pigs” is one that is notably good for all ages, and lightweight plastic horseshoes can keep little people busy while you’re starting dinner.

Go to a local outdoors store and look at tents in-person to see if they’re big enough to accommodate your entire family. It’s better to see how they look and feel than to buy one online and have it not work out. Set it up at home to make sure you know the process.

Finally, pack the essentials. Put your first-aid kit together. You don’t need surgical equipment—only what you would have for spills around the house. You also might want to include things like a map and compass.

DURING THE TRIP If your kids aren’t in diapers anymore, pick a site that is close to the bathrooms, but not so close that a strong gust of wind ruins everything. On a serious note, people sometimes walk through the sites that are too close, and you don’t want that.

Once you get to the campsite, set up the tent immediately. One of the worst things you can do is wait for the sun to set before getting it together. Tents can be hard enough to assemble, let alone trying to keep munchkins rounded up without any decent light. This region is full of lakes and rivers, and that can make it dangerous if you’re concentrated on setting up a tent.

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But with kids? Of course! The Outdoor Foundation has found that over 40 million people in America camp each year, and 85% of them took their first trip between birth and age 15. In other words, those who continue to camp throughout their lives, are the ones who started young.

Lucky for you, you’re in one of the best places in America to do it. So, how do you camp with kids?

continued on page 14

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Camping continued from page 25

Do something special. It’s not enough to let the kids play in the dirt (although they need that, too) while you put your feet up and read a book. Take them for a short hike to explore the wildlife, perhaps with a scavenger hunt for extra intrigue. Gather a few wildflowers together to add a bit of color at your campsite or to stick in a book and press. Pick up a durable, affordable children’s camera to bring along which allows them some creativity as they explore. (It’s a great way to see what captures their eye, too.) And, of course, s’mores around the campfire at night are a must. Be prepared to clean the sticky off of everyone’s faces and fingers!

Once the sugar has burned off and it’s time for bed, make sure you have more than the toothbrush and toothpaste. There are no lights to turn on, so a few flashlights and lanterns are necessary. There are inexpensive flashlights that are good for kids. They’ll have a greater sense of security and prevent a lot of tears. Trust me.

“Top Places for First-Timers” Camp Richardson, Lake Tahoe Camp Richardson has over 200 tent sites, but it also has a general store, ice cream parlor, and coffee shop. This makes it great for those who aren’t comfortable with totally roughing it (yet!)

Collins Lake, Browns Valley Located just west of Nevada City and Grass Valley, this site also has ice cream and coffee.

If the sticks get old, it has playgrounds and a swimming beach. It also has showers!

Cassini Ranch Family Campground, Duncans Mills Family friendly, pet friendly campsite in Sonoma County with a lot of water and other activities to keep kids entertained.

COMING HOME When it’s time to pack up and head home, don’t stress about everything being in perfect condition; you can fix whatever you need to in your garage or backyard. It’s not helpful to stress out about every little thing and turn your kids off to camping forever.

Take a little poll about what your kids liked and what they didn’t. For instance, they might like seeing the water at Sea Ranch, but did not like how long it took to get there. Next time, Tahoe might be a better choice.

Camping is one of the greatest memories a kid can have. When life is full of Sacramento traffic, billboards for casinos and events at Cal Expo, Fry’s Electronics, and UC Davis, a visit to one of the area’s natural beauties is a must.

Pinecrest Lake, Stanislaus National Forest 2.5 hours east of Sacramento, Pinecrest Lake has kayaking, canoeing, fishing, showers, and more! This is a great place for hiking and swimming.

Coloma Resort Peaceful campground in the heart of Gold Country. There are lodges and tent camping, a discovery school for outdoor education, and plenty of other activities.

Stephen Muff is a lifelong resident of and camper in the greater Sacramento region. He is a travel writer and a member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors. He lives in Auburn with his wife and two daughters.

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CAMP Enrich Your Child’s Summer Schedule with Local Activities and Save a Bundle

By Christina Katz

Sleep-away camp can be an exciting, empowering adventure for kids who are mature enough to handle the expectations. However, overnight camp may not be a perfect fit for your family this year.

Don't feel like you have to apologize if you want to take a more customized approach to summer fun to meet the needs of your kids locally. There are many day camps, classes and activities in your area that will keep smiles on your kids' faces all summer long.

Perhaps you’re having a hard time finding a sleep away camp that will meet all of your teenage daughter’s needs in one experience. You can better satisfy her desires, and possibly spend a lot less money, by making the most of opportunities in our area. True, you could end up driving miles in multiple directions and juggling a variety of schedules, but somehow the activities you’ve chosen end up complimenting each other nicely.

When it comes to stringing together local experiences, imagine the beads that would go on a charm bracelet for each of your kids. Which beads best represent your child's interests? A soccer ball, a book and pair of hiking boots? Or perhaps a fairy wand, ballet slippers and a teacup? No matter what the collection of interests, gather up some regional guides, hop online and conduct searches, and ask friends what they have planned

for their kids. You are going on a summer activity hunt.

Who says summer can't be educational and fun? Customizing a summer schedule for each child in the family is an eye-opening adventure in and of itself.

If you want a peaceful summer, help your kids stretch their wings beyond the usual, school-year routine. Turn your child's summer into weeks of entertaining growth by thoughtfully scheduling activities each year.

Ink Year-round Commitments. You may already have school year activities that extend into summer like scouting or 4-H. Be sure to get these commitments on your child's schedule first, so you don't inadvertently overbook. If your child participates in a sport or another competitive activity, training camps are often required during summer. When I was a kid, I often envied teammates who rejoined the team playing on a higher level than the season before thanks to attending summer training camp.

Ask For Referrals. Chances are good that parents who have lived in your area for several years have the 411 on the best day camps and summer classes. Poll your friends individually or post a poll on social media to gather information.

Be sure to specify all your kids' interests to attract the most relevant recommendations. The whole point of customizing

schedules is to come up with a summer plan to delight each child. Don't send the fun-loving child who longs for improv classes to the same activities as the serious child who adores long games of chess. They can share the car-ride, but make their activities reflect their individual passions.

Don't Overlook Summer School. Since the summer before high school, we sign our daughter up to take a wellness course in the summer. Getting a jump on these pre-requisites allows her to take an extra art elective during the school year, which provides a welcome break during her school day. Ask your child's school counselor if taking summer school courses might benefit your child's schedule next year. Some districts even allow online learning or swapping summer athletic training for physical education requirements.

Check Local Resources. Schools, libraries, and community centers are great resources for finding summer activities.

Be sure to ask for any printed or online guides they may offer. Sacramento Parent has a guide of local day camps on their website. Also, check towns near where you live to see if they offer additional programs that may interest your child. By driving one town over, at the beginning of each summer, we found a community Continued on page 33

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Located at the beautiful Lake Francis Resort in Dobbins, CA DON’T MISS OUR SUMMER CAMPS! M-F | Ages 6-13 | 9am-3pm Hitting,Throwing,Fielding & Games | $150.00 JUNE CAMPS: JUNE 1216 • JUNE 1923 JULY CAMPS: JULY 1014 • JULY 1721

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CAMP

BYERS GYMNASTICS

Don’t miss out on our upcoming camps this summer!

June 26-30 • Safari Week July 10-14 • Bug Week July 17-21 • Hawaii Week July 24-28 • Space Week July 31-Aug. 4 • Super Hero Week

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Summer Day Camp PreK - 8th Grade June 12th - August 18th

Reduced Weekly Rates • Extended Childcare Included Meet new friends and enjoy lots of fun activities that will interest everyone. A variety of subjects and topics presented throughout summer, including: • Science • Computers • Games • Crafts • Academic Programs for Reading & Math • Sports Program

Camp activities will help students strengthen both academic and athletic skills over the summer months while having a great time!

NOW ENROLLING!

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CAMP

Summer Schedule continued from page 29

theater production our daughter can participate in inexpensively. Now that's worth a ten-minute drive.

Consider Your Child's Needs. Be mindful of how much structure and supervision each offering includes. Some kids are more self-motivated than others.

Sometimes a kid-centric focus is part of an activity's allure. But if you know your child flourishes in a structured environment with adult leadership, trust your instincts. Consider scaffolding more leadership into your child's summer experiences over time. If your child is reticent about trying new activities or making new friends, see if any school friends wish to try a new activity together. This can also allow for carpooling.

Go Your Own Way. You may want your child to benefit from the experience of

trying a new experience without school friends. If so, enroll in activities where enthusiasm for the topic will trump any first-day butterflies. Do not bend to social pressure if all of the other kids are doing an activity that is not a good match for your child. If the program focus isn't a fit, the experience isn't going to be enriching no matter how many friends are in attendance. Make timely, age-appropriate choices for your children, and when religion is a focus, make sure it suits your family's values.

Don't Overlook A Summer Reading Challenge. If your child has a busy summer schedule, you might be concerned about not enough down time. Signing your child up for a summer reading challenge at the beginning of summer is a great way to build downtime into any type of schedule. On busy days, reading

will provide a welcome reprieve from social activity. And on lazy days, having a daily book-reading commitment can get an unscheduled day off to a good start.

Budget For Sleep-away Camp. As you are putting your children through the paces of overcoming fears about new experiences with fresh faces, you may be thinking that this is all great preparation for sleep-away camp in the future. And that's true. Why not start a conversation now about the possibility of sleep-away camp down the road? Consider opening a savings account to make overnight camp as positive of an experience as possible when the time comes. Encourage your child to pitch in and help save money with you. Then, when the time to register arrives, you'll both have buy-in and the flexibility of choice you crave.

Christina Katz is an author, journalist, and writing coach who loves local adventures. She never runs out of interesting things to see and do in her area, and hopes to pass this proclivity down to her daughter.

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When Should You Buy Your Child a Smartphone?

By Scott Steinberg It’s the burning question on every family’s lips: At what age should you buy your kid a smartphone or similar mobile communications device? Ironically, as parenting experts note, there’s no one answer that fits every household. Rather, the decision when to invest in such devices is largely a function of family need, children’s maturity level, and both; how well-equipped that you feel your children are to make good decisions and the safety tools that you’ve put in place to catch them if they should stumble.

However, in the interest of providing a succinct answer, be advised: Many parents first introduce a cell phone to kids around age 13. While some households lean a little younger, you’ll find it a fairly reasonable starting point if you’re looking for an opening guideline. That said, it may help to approach the decision from a practical standpoint. When you really should introduce a mobile device to kids’ lives; is when there’s actually a meaningful, pressing need to do so. For example, when your child starts after-school activities and will be outside of easy reach and you absolutely, positively need to keep in contact with them.

That said, a few key pieces of advice to keep in mind as you weigh the decision are as follows: Consider buying a cell phone that dials only your contact number if and when, kids need to come home alone. Prepaid cell phones can also let you limit call times and features, restrict Internet usage, prevent access to unwanted features, and monitor overall usage, and usage patterns.

If you’re concerned about receiving unexpectedly large bills, or kids’ Internet activi-

ty, opt out of texting or endless data plans and choose a basic feature phone that forgoes bells and whistles; such as downloadable apps, unlimited Web browsing and GPS tracking, to limit children’s online interactions.

Always read the manual, research and go hands-on with phones, smartphones, tablet PCs or any high-tech device that provides VoIP or digital calling functionality before you hand them over to children.

It’s imperative to know the ins and outs of the cell phone you’re considering for your child before you give it to him or her (a good rule of thumb for any high-tech device for that matter).

Consider restricting cell phone usage to only taking place in your presence, until kids are mature enough to handle calls, texting and online interactions on their own.

Be certain to monitor cell phone activity and usage, and review your bill regularly for suspicious calls, activity or communications made when mobile handsets are supposed to have been shut down (e.g.

3AM on a Tuesday night).

In addition, before placing a smartphone or connected devices in kids’ hands, it is also important to share the following safety tips:

Never tell people where you’re currently located or headed soon, including when and where you’re headed out on vacation. Note that location-based apps may introduce check-in or activity-tracking features that may share this information inadvertently unless privacy settings are configured to prevent this.

Don’t download pictures, click on email attachments, or visit unsolicited online links from an unknown source.

Don’t be afraid to come forward and have a discussion if you see something that you have a question about online.

Don’t forget that everyone is, to some extent, playing a character online – whether in a mobile video game or otherwise.

Set limits on screen time: 60 to 90 minutes makes a good starting point. Every hour of online activity should also be balanced with equal or greater time away from hightech devices.

As you can see, the decision on when and how to introduce a smartphone to a child isn’t an easy or straightforward one.

However, by following a few simple rules and guidelines, it becomes far easier to navigate – and far easier to help keep your kids safe online.

Never share personal information (e.g. your name, address, hometown, birthday, school or telephone number) online.

Never upload pictures or video of yourself onto the Internet where they can be accessed by strangers.

Award-winning professional speaker Scott Steinberg is a bestselling expert on leadership and innovation, and the author of “Netiquette Essentials: New Rules for Minding Your Manners in a Digital World”, “Millennial Marketing: Bridging the Generation Gap” and “Make Change Work for You: 10 Ways to Future-Proof Yourself, Fearlessly Innovate, and Succeed Despite Uncertainty”. Among today’s leading providers of keynote speeches, workshops and seminars for Fortune 500 firms, his website is www.AKeynoteSpeaker.com.

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CCHAT coordinates & refers as appropriate with physicians, other health professionals, school personnel and those involved in hearing aid fittings to ensure your infant’s total hearing healthcare needs are met.

We inform referring physicians and professionals of audiologic evaluation results and recommendations a s well as coordinate professional services as required.

Make outpatient appointments by calling 916-361-7290 www.cchatsacramento.org

GoDandelion.com your link to special needs resources and articles

SUMMER SOCIAL GROUPS Our 8 week groups begin the week of June 5.

First session free with Early Bird Registration by May 31 AGES 4-6: LITTLE MIND READERS Adventures and journeys await for our youngest members!

Children will learn how to think about others during fun voyages to outer space, underwater, the farm, and much more! This group focuses on school readiness skills such as: cooperative play, staying with the group, whole body listening, as well as developing imaginative thinking.

AGES 7-9: SUPERFLEX TRAINING ACADEMY Come train to be a super hero! These members will help Superflex save the day by increasing awareness of their own behavior and the behavior of others through learning flexible thinking. Your child will learn the Superflexible strategies they need to succeed in becoming the ultimate superhero!

AGES 10-12: IT’S SHOWTIME! Come to the movies to explore thinking about social skills in a fun and interactive way! These members learn to be directors by hitting the “pause” button frequently and freezing the action in order to interpret the context, emotions, intentions, and plans of our favorite movie characters. Once the scene is right, our directors promote to producers, making this movie of life come to action!

916.575.8800 | cookspeechandlanguage.com | 1972 Del Paso Rd. Suite 156, Sacramento, CA 95834

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•Autism Spectrum Disorder

•Individualized Therapy

•Articulation and Phonology

•Developmental Delays

•Early Intervention Specialists

•Parent Training and Coaching

•Language Disorders

•Stuttering Therapy

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Kick-off Summer Break with These Special Needs Events 3 SATURDAY

ONGOING

10:30am at Southgate Library, Sacramento

Music for the Cause Song Competition Enter through November 2017

Sensory Storytime This inclusive storytime was developed for youth with autism and/or sensory disorders and their families/caregivers. It features songs, stories, sensory activities and interactive materials. The program is targeted for a developmental age of 2 to 6 years old. Behaviors and/or noise are no problem. Siblings are welcome!

www.SacLibrary.org

Calling all singer/songwriters! Submit your original composition for a chance to win a cash prize of up to $5,000. $25 entry fee (free for those with a bleeding disorder), all proceeds go directly back to the cause.

www.MusicfortheCause.org

4 SUNDAY ExplorABILITY 10am-12pm at Sacramento Children’s Museum, Rancho Cordova ExplorABILITY is a FREE bi-monthly play-based program for children on the autism spectrum, ages three to ten. This program offers opportunities for children to play in the Museum in a safe setting facilitated by a rotation of Sacramento area professionals from a variety of disciplines. This is an RSVP-Only event as space is limited to 20 participants per event. For more info, please email molly@sackids.org or call 916-638-7225 x 103.

www.SacKids.org

14 WEDNESDAY Beary Special Play Date 5-7pm at Sacramento Children’s Museum, Rancho Cordova Children with special needs, their families, and their friends are invited to a FREE evening of Museum Play! Snacks will be served! For more info, please email molly@sackids.org or call 916-638-7225 x 103.

www.SacKids.org

23 FRIDAY Autism-Friendly Family Movie 10am at Central Library Kids’ Place, Sacramento Join this special family movie event for kids with autism and/or sensory disorders. “Typical” kids are welcome, too! Watch Universal Pictures’ “Minions”. This is a before-hours event. Please arrive at the I Street entrance between 9:45am-10am to be admitted.

www.SacLibrary.org

24 SATURDAY Autism-Friendly Family Movie 10:30am at Sylvan Oaks Library, Citrus Heights A special family movie event for kids with autism and/or sensory disorders. The lights will be slightly up, the sound will be slightly down, and kids don’t need to remain seated while enjoying the movie. There will also be lots of fidget toys. In “Sing”, a koala impresario stages a gala singing competition in order to save his theater.

Turner Cranial Technique is an exciting new treatment that creates fast, profound healing for autism, ADHD, Asperger's, OCD, Tourette's, Down's, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities, sleeping problems, migraines, concussions, dementia, and other brain conditions.

michael fiske dc

www.SacLibrary.org Sensory Storytime 10am at North Natomas Library, Sacramento This inclusive storytime was developed for kids with Autism and/or sensory disorders. It features songs, stories, sensory activities and interactive materials and is targeted for a developmental age of 2 to 6 years-old. Behaviors and/or noise are no problem. Siblings are welcome!

white oak chiropractic

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thursday

Hello, su mmer break! With plenty of sunshine in the forecast and lots to do right here in town...we hope you are inspired to get out and go play! Be sure to check our full calendar of events at Sacra mentoParent.com, too!

Sometimes plans change, don’t forget to check the event’s website before you go!

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Wild Things

First Friday Street Fair

Sami’s Circuit Community Event

4pm at Rancho Cordova Library

6pm at Fountains at Roseville

10am at Regional Park Gym, Auburn

Animals of the World will be bringing wild animals for kids to meet. www.SacLibrary.org

Artisan vendors, a kid’s area, science show, costume characters, a dancing area, car show, and much more! www.Facebook.com/ events/1091443737628047

Power ​u​p ​y​our ​s​ummer! ​​Sami’s Circuit combines upbeat music, lighting effects, and exercise for ​all ages. www.Facebook.com/ events/444885775851860/

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Summer Reading Kickoff with the Science Wizard

Community Day at the Sacramento Adventure Playground

3:30pm at McKinley Library, Sacramento

11am at Maple Neighborhood Center

See super cool chemistry experiments as he makes materials ooze, melt, bubble, smoke, and foam. www.SacLibrary.org

A fun and safe environment where children use their imagination and creativity to direct their own play! www.SacAdventurePlay.org

Summer Storytime Series

Cupcake Ball 2017: Annual Father Daughter Dance

8 Dragon Crafts & Stories 2pm at Arcade Library, Sacramento

Enjoy short stories about scaly dragons, followed by dragon crafts. www.SacLibrary.org Pixie Tribe Puppet Show 11am at North Sacramento-Hagginwood Library

Storytime fun including a puppet show, face painting, and balloon twisting. www.SacLibrary.org

15 Andy Amyx Magic & Music 4pm at Rancho Cordova Library

ONGOING

Andy performs magic effects and gets kids to listen to their favorite music while reading the lyrics. www.SacLibrary.org

Family Overnight Safaris

Edible Magic Garden

June 10, 16 & 24 at the Sacramento Zoo

Fun-filled, educational evenings sharing all that the nighttime Zoo has to offer (includes dinner and breakfast). Designed for small groups and families, this is a perfect opportunity to see animal behaviors you may not have seen before. www.SacZoo.org

11am at North Sacramento-Hagginwood Library

Kids will plant their own magical salad garden and read “Watermelon Wishes” by Lisa Moser. www.SacLibrary.org

22 Explore with Art Beast Explore various art materials and mediums, learn new art skills and create works of art to take home. www.SacLibrary.org Kids Cook!

2pm at Robbie Waters Pocket-Greenhaven Library, Sacramento

Kids in K-6th grades are invited to get hands-on experience preparing delicious recipes. www.SacLibrary.org

29 International Folk Music and Dance with Bonnie Lockhart 4pm at Arcade Library, Sacramento

This musical adventure includes Japanese round, a calypso number, a Comanche music guessing game and a Latin American drumming song. www.SacLibrary.org

A new story every week from oldschool favorites to hot-off the press award winners. www.GiftsFromTheHeartOfElkGrove.weebly.com

6pm at Sacramento Children’s Museum

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Family Day

Family Campout 5:30pm - 7am at Fairytale Town

Spend the night in storybook park, enjoy a theater show, arts and crafts, a scavenger hunt, games, and bedtime stories. Wake up to a continental breakfast. www.FairytaleTown.org

25 years

Enjoy a visit from a guest princess and dancing. Cupcakes and refreshments will be served. www.SacKids.org 10am-3pm at Safetyville, USA

Enjoy health, safety and recreational resources, food, prizes and safety demonstrations. www.SafetyCenter.org

17 Zoo’s 90th Birthday Party 9am at Sacramento Zoo

Watch the NEW “LEGO Batman Movie”, free popcorn provided. www.SacLibrary.org

The Zoo is throwing a party with games, crafts, activities and bounce houses. Free party hats, sno-cones, face painting and more! www.SacZoo.org

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Game Night for Kids

A Midsummer Night’s Dream & Crystal Ice Cream Fantasy

Fun Fridays

6pm at Arden-Dimick Library, Sacramento

Stay after the library closes to play games. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. www.SacLibrary.org Juggling, Magic, and Inspired Silliness 3:30pm at McKinley Library, Sacramento

Join Owen Baker-Flynn for hilarious magic tricks, balancing, juggling, jelly bean tossing, possible accordion playing, and more! www.SacLibrary.org

30 The Three Little Engineers with Happy Bright Kids 4pm at Southgate Library, Sacramento

A fun puppet show spin on the traditional story of the “Three Little Pigs”. www.SacLibrary.org

MakerFest at World of Wonders Science Museum 38 JUNE 2017 sacramentoparent.com O Celebrating

9:30am at Gifts From the Heart, Elk Grove

3pm at Southgate Library, Sacramento

4pm at Arcade Library, Sacramento

FairytaleTown, Midsummer Night’s Dream, Photo by Greg Flagg

saturday

friday

5pm at Fairytale Town

Celebrate William Shakespeare’s popular fairy-themed play while enjoying all-you-can-eat Crystal ice cream!

Costumes encouraged. www.FairytaleTown.org MakerFest 10am at World of Wonders Science Museum

Get those little hands dissecting toys, working in artwork alley and crafting corner, and more! www.WowScienceMuseum.org Red White and Blue Parade 9am in Citrus Heights

The parade runs north down Sunrise Blvd. and ends at Sunrise Mall, where there will be a car show, food truck court, live band, kids’ zone and more. www.CHChamber.com/ events/details/ red-white-and-blue-parade-5444

sunday

wednesday

tuesday

monday

4

5

6

7

Tools and Tales

Homeschool Day - California Missions

Little Peeps

Art-to-Writing for Young Children

9:30am-11:30 at Sacramento Zoo (June 6,7,8,9,13,14,15 & 16)

4:30pm at Arcade Library, Sacramento

1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael

Enjoy tales of creatures, people, and nature! Get a chance to view replica Maidu artifacts and learn about their many uses. www.SacNatureCenter.net

11 Character Dining with Moana 6pm at Sac Pizza Co

Dine with Moana. Your little ones will enjoy her sing along story time. www.SacPizzaCo.com Cold Blooded Creatures 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael

Some have scaly skin, some have slimy skin, some have legs and some do not.

Can you guess what they are? Join and find out! www.SacNatureCenter.net

18 Father’s Day All day at Funderland Park

Where would we be without our dads? The park is giving a shout out to fathers by inviting them to ride FREE on Father’s Day! www.FunderlandPark.com Fathers and Frogs 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

Make a splash this Father’s Day as you explore the pond. Using catch and release activities you’ll discover the hidden world of water insects, polliwogs and, if you’re lucky, an adult frog! www.SacNatureCenter.net

25 Basic Drawing Class 1pm at Central Library Galleria West Meeting Room, Sacramento (6/25-8/13)

Learn basic drawing techniques in this free, 8-week class for adults and teens.

The series will cover gesture, contour line, perspective, shading, composition, and sighting techniques using charcoal, pencil, and ink. All supplies provided. Space limited, registration required. www.SacLibrary.org Salamander Storytime 1:30pm at Effie Yeaw Nature Center, Carmichael

Enjoy stories about these amazing amphibians, learn all about their double lives, and meet one up close! www.SacNatureCenter.net

10:00am at California Museum

Explore the California Missions and participate in a hands-on basket weaving activity in conjunction with the exhibit, “California Missions: A Journey Along the El Camino Real.”

Advance reservations required by 5pm on June 2. www.CaliforniaMuseum.org/ homeschool-day iFLY Kids Club 7:00pm at iFLY Roseville

iFLY Sacramento offers a Kid’s Club for children ages 5+ who want to learn more about the sport of body-flight.

Providing a safe and fun learning environment where children can develop their skills and form relationships with other flyers. Space is limited. www.iFLYWorld.com/sacramento

19 Casting Call for Elk Grove’s Got Talent!

6pm at Laguna Town Hall

Captivate a crowd of hundreds through “Elk Grove’s Got Talent!” at the Hot Summer Nights concert series. The Cosumnes Community Services District is seeking local acts interested in performing during the concerts’ 20-minute intermissions.

Apply online! www.YourCSD.com Vacation Bible School Camp-Out 5pm at Northminster Presbyterian Church (6/19-22)

A campout designed for campers in kindergarten through sixth grade.

Campers will learn how God provides, protects, and saves. Activities include crafts, games, bible stories, projects with a purpose, dancing, singing, making new friends, Water Day, and dinner. There is no charge. www.NorthminsterOnline.org

These classes are 2-hours long and designed for 3 to 5 year-olds with a caregiver. Each class will focus on a different theme including a mini-lesson, fun craft and other activities!

Enjoy a special visit with an animal ambassador. Class themes are the same for the whole week; simply register for one day per week. Registration required! www.SacZoo.org ROCKIN’ TOTS 9am at Rockin’ Jump, Roseville

Burn calories playing with your children on trampolines, and socialize with ROCKIN’ TOTS friends every Tuesday and Wednesday!

Roseville.rockinjump.com

20 Xtreme Science 2pm at North Natomas Library

Join the library for this interactive show that mixes family entertainment and science. www.SacLibrary.org

Children learn about art while using motor skills crucial for writing and kindergarten readiness. Recommended for ages 2 to 7 years. www.SacLibrary.org Planetary Connections 6pm at World of Wonders Science Museum, Lodi

Join Science Night Live with the Museum and meet NASA Solar System Ambassador, Jayce Pearson.

An engaging science experience for curious minds! www.WowScienceMuseum.org

14 Bat Talk and Walk 2017 6:45pm at Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area Headquarters, Davis

Learn about bats, especially those native to Northern California. Next, the group will caravan out to the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area to watch the “flyout” of the largest colony of Mexican free-tailed bats in California. www.YoloBasin.org/ battalkandwalks Ice Cream Social 4pm at Arden-Dimick Library, Sacramento

Join the library for fabulous ice cream and sign up for Summer Reading!

They'll have lots of ice cream and toppings to choose from. www.SacLibrary.org Puppet Art Theater 3:30pm at Elk Grove Library

See an awesome puppet show performed by Puppet Art Theater and sign up for summer reading! www.SacLibrary.org

21 Xtreme Science Magic 4pm at Arden-Dimick Library, Sacramento

A fast-moving, interactive, upbeat show that mixes entertainment with information. www.SacLibrary.org

28 Magician Uncle Al 2pm at Carmichael Library

Prepare to be amazed as Uncle Al tricks his way into your funny bone!

Children under age 8 need to be accompanied by an adult. www.SacLibrary.org

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calendar/shows

All phone numbers are area code (916) unless otherwise noted

Modern Masters

Best of Broadway

June 16-18 at the Harris Center for the Arts George Balanchine’s groundbreaking masterpiece, “The Four Temperaments”, presaged a fresh new direction in dance for generations to marvel. In addition, master storyteller Ron Cunningham creates a dramatic and evocative world premiere based on “The Seven Deadly Sins”.

608-6888 | www.HarrisCenter.net

Jack and the Beanstalk

Pippin

June 21 at Harris Center for the Arts Enjoy an evening of great entertainment when High Voltage presents, “The Best of Broadway”.

It features two hours of some of the best from classic and current Broadway musicals. This is the final performance of the Season 8 Cast so it is sure to be a memorable show.

608-6888 | www.HarrisCenter.net

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June 17-July 9 at Sutter Street Theatre Grab your magic beans and head to the Sutter Street Theatre for a show the whole family will love!

353-1001 | www.SutterStreetTheatre.com

Legally Blonde

June 16-July 9 at Davis Musical Theatre Company Fabulously fun and based on the adored movie, “Legally Blonde, the Musical” follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, snobbery and scandal in pursuit of her dreams.

This action-packed musical explodes on the stage with memorable songs and dynamic dances. Part hilarious and part heartwarming, this musical is so much fun it should be illegal.

530-756-3682 | www.DMTC.org

Little Red Riding Hood

June 3-4 at Fairytale Town Puppet Art Theater Company presents the tale of “Little Red Riding Hood” in the Children’s Theater.

In this nutty version, Little Red and her dog Fifi are taking pepperoni pizza to Grandma’s when they run into the wolf. Wolf loves pizza and plots to get Red’s. Join Little Red, Fifi, and Grandma as they try to keep the wolf from eating them and their pepperoni pizza.

808-7462 | www.FairytaleTown.org

APPLY NOW www.ncfmc.com For more info: (916) 773-2229 x2290 bdrew@ncfmc.com

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25 years

June 9-11 at the Harris Center for the Arts This season’s Broadway magic concludes with a thrilling update of classic Broadway fare. Winner of four 2013 Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival, this unforgettable production is full of high-flying, death-defying acrobatics, wondrous magical feats and soaring songs from the composer of “Wicked”.

608-6888 | www.HarrisCenter.net

Portraits

Jun 24 at the Harris Center for the Arts Join El Dorado Dance Academy’s summer concert dance experience that adventures through the landscapes of life. This show features a variety of dances for an evening length program including: Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip-Hop, Lyrical, Musical Theatre, Contemporary and Ethnic forms!

608-6888 | www.HarrisCenter.net

calendar/exhibits

ad...

Ahe g in k o o L It’s always a good idea to check the website before you head out!

JULY

Art and Advocacy Exhibit June 15-September 17 at California Museum

Imaginary Friends

A new exhibit of original works by developmentally-disabled artists residing across California. Juried by representatives from Choices Person Centered Services and the California Disability Community Action Network, the exhibit seeks to challenge assumptions about people with developmental disabilities. www.CaliforniaMuseum.org It's Story Time Now through July 6 at Gallery at 48 Natoma The art of surrealism often tells a story from an artist's unconscious point of view that allows the unconscious to express itself. This kind of art strives to resolve the previously contradictory conditions of dream and reality. Surrealist works feature the element of surprise, unexpected juxtapositions and non sequitur. www.Folsom.ca.us

Rainbow Babies Education & Enrichment Guide Patriotic crafty Music Lessons for All Abilities Kids & Concussions

Malia Landis: Pacific Bloom Exhibit Through June 11 at Pence Gallery

Malia Landis’ new work in porcelain is part portraiture, part still life. Her research into the lei culture of Hawaii, with its symbolism for specific flowers and lei designs, has also spurred her in making flowers, petal by petal, by hand out of porcelain, and reassembling them into leis. www.PenceGallery.org CONNECTING FAMILIES FOR 25 YEARS

Turn The Page: The First Ten Years of Hi-Fructose June 11-September 17 at Crocker Art Museum

Pick up your free copy at one of over 1,000 locations throughout Greater Sacramento, or read it online at

The First Ten Years of Hi-Fructose marks the tenth anniversary of the popular art magazine, Hi-Fructose. Highlighted are 51 of the most remarkable contemporary artists featured between its pages. www.CrockerArtMuseum.org

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

LANGUAGE

Want to give your kids a better life?

PARTY

www.SacramentoParent.com

THERAPY

Jennifer Baker, LMFT #97308

Music therapy can help promote the development of: • speech and communication • motor skills • social skills • cognition and learning skills • self-expression and creativity

Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist 6518 Lonetree Blvd. #190 Rocklin, CA 95765

916-889-3682

www.jbakerlmft.com

Accepting new clients for individual and group services. Contact us today for a free over-the-phone consultation.

916.905.0217 www.MelodyTreeMT.com

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calendar/on repeat

JUNE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Hello Summer Nights!

Whether it’s date night or family night, the summer fun’s begun!

By Christine Quarry

Photographs courtesy of Saturday Nights at the Barn presented by Off the Grid Markets

WEDNESDAYS

PALLADIO SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

7pm at Palladio (Piazza near the fountain), Folsom www.GoPalladio.com Head out to the Palladio on Wednesday’s for live music from the area’s best bands.

June 7 WONDERBREAD 5

Party Dance Band

June 14 APPLE Z

FRIDAYS

SUMMER CONCERTS IN THE PARK

7pm at El Dorado Hills Community Park www.ElDoradoHillsCSD.org Free friday night concerts at the community park.

Live music, food, bounce houses, and children’s activities.

June 9 POP FICTION - Top Hits, 70’s to present June 23 GARRATT WILKIN & THE PARROTHEAD Jimmy Buffett Tribute

FIRST FRIDAY STREET FAIR

Dance Rock Band

6pm at The Fountains, Roseville www.FountainsAtRoseville.com

June 21 THE DEPARTMENT OF ROCK

Rock and Pop from 70’s, 80’s, 90’s

June 28 NOTORIOUS

Current thru today Dance Party

THURSDAYS

Party Down Main Street! Stop by June 2nd to enjoy crafters, artisans, car shows, and a variety of activities for the kids in the Kids Zone. Plus a few surprises along the way. It’s a great night out for the whole family!

DOWNTOWN SACRAMENTO CONCERTS IN THE PARK

FAIR OAKS CONCERTS IN THE PARK

6:30 at Village Park, Fair Oaks www.FairOaksPark.org

Concerts in the Park are a free series of concerts for the Fair Oaks Community. It’s an opportunity for families to come together to enjoy a relaxing summer evening in the park.

June 15 ON AIR CLASSIC ROCK

Power Horns June 22 WEST FIFTH AVENUE BAND-VARIETY

BAND - Classic Rock, Pop & Jazz

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5pm at Cesar Chavez Plaza, Sacramento www.GoDowntownSac.com With close to 6,000 fans gathering in the heart of the city to see local and nationally touring artists and downtown Sac’s hottest DJs spinning between sets, Concerts in the Park (CIP) is the ultimate destination for Friday night happy hour!

June 2 SECRET BAND, ETERNITY FOREVER,

A FOREIGN AFFAIR, LOST THINGS, BILLY LANE June 9 DEL THE FUNKY HOMOSAPIEN,

SOOSH*E!, THE PEOPLE’S REVOLUTION,

DJ EPIK June 16 ZuhG., THE LIQUE, SIMPLE CREATION, ZEPHYR June 23 MAD CADDIES, ANOTHER DAMN

DISAPPOINTMENT, DESTROY BOYS,

DJ NOCTURNAL

25 years

FRIDAY MOONLIGHT MOVIES

8:30pm at Village Green Park, Rancho Cordova www.CordovaCouncil.org

This is a series of “FREE Friday nights out” that will keep you happily entertained throughout the summer. Movies to be announced on their website and social media for the dates of June 2, 9, 16 and 23.

FREE MOVIE FRIDAYS!

7pm at Kathy Lund Park www.Rocklin.ca.us

The City of Rocklin is proud to announce some of the biggest box office hits for you to enjoy! Cozy up on your blankets or low profile chairs and enjoy a free movie under the stars! Get there around 7 pm to get a good seat and listen to all the great music, the movie will begin after dark at around 9 pm.

Admission is free!

June 16 SECRET LIFE OF PETS

WEEKENDS

FOUNTAINS SATURDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES

8pm at The Fountains, Roseville www.FountainsAtRoseville.com

Sing, Dance & Rock Out! Every Saturday night from June through September, we bring in headlining concerts to perform on our main stage. From Country to Rock, we have a full roster of bands lined up this summer.

June 3 THE RHYTHM VANDALS - Viva Santana June 10 NATIONAL LINES - Alternative/Pop/Rock June 17 TODD MORGAN & THE EMBLEMS - Rockabilly

June 24 ANALOG JAZZ - Smooth Jazz/R&B

calendar/on repeat

JUNE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 SATURDAY NIGHTS AT THE BARN PRESENTED BY OFF THE GRID MARKETS 5pm at the Barn, West Sacramento www.Facebook.com/offthegridsac/ Presented by Off the Grid, Saturday Nights at The Barn will feature a large array of food trucks, music, art, and beverages from Rye on the Road in conjunction with Drake’s Brewing Co. at Sacramento’s newest landmark destination. Follow them on Facebook for updates on each weeks events and food truck lineup!

TOWN SQUARE CONCERT SERIES 2017 6:30pm at Vernon Street Town Square, Roseville www.Facebook.com/ VernonStreetTownSquare Head out to the Square for free music, yummy food trucks and good summer fun!

June 17 - MANIA! - Beatles Tribute POPS IN THE PARK 6pm at various locations in West Sacramento www.EastSacPopsInThePark.com

June 3 JOY & MADNESS June 10 JOHN SKINNER BAND June 17 MUMBO GUMBO June 24 UNSUPERVISED

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