Hold a Winter Triathlon!

Ready for a Winter Triathlon?

 

Scott Klepach Jr.

 

For this game, you will need:

• Four players or more (two players on two teams)
• A sled
• A box or basket
• Snowman supplies (carrot, hat, scarf or rocks)
• Station markers for three stations

 

Set up three stations:

 

Station 1: Snow Angels

Station 2: Snowmen
 Station 3: Sledding to Dress up the Snowman

 

1.           Create a starting line and mark three stations around the yard, using landmarks or household objects to designate each. Place one member of each team at the starting line and the second team member of each team at Station 2 (Snowman).

2.           When “go” is called, the team members at the starting line will race to Station 1 to make snow angels. Once finished, confirm that the snow angel looks complete and then team members will race to meet their teammates at Station 2.

3.           At Station 2, both teams will create their own snowman with three sections.

4.           When the snowman is finished, partners will run together to Station 3, where a sled and a box containing the snowman’s decorations are waiting. One player will sit on the sled and hold the box while the other partner will pull the sled back to Station 2 where the snowman is waiting to be decorated.

5.           Dress up the snowman for his date with winter!

6.           Both partners must race together back to the starting line, which is now the finish line.  Whoever crosses this finish line first, after having completed all of the steps properly, wins!

 

• Note: You can certainly modify the rules if only two people are playing a one-on-one match. The only real part of the game to take away in this case would be the sledding component.ereHere

Winter “Sun”derland: A Tropical Stay-cation!

Winter “Sun”derland

Do you suffer from the winter blues? If so, why not throw yourself — and your family — a tropical staycation? This activity can stir your imagination and give you a break from the blustery reality outside!

Throw down beach blankets in your living room and have an indoor beach party… • Grab some shades, an umbrella, put on your swimsuits and turn up the heat • Wear grass skirts and Hawaiian leis • Put on some tropical music • Do the limbo rock with a broom • Serve a ham and pineapple dinner with citrus drinks • Get out a beach ball and play volleyball

Make Tropical French Toast
(recipe courtesy of Kathy Sali)

Ingredients
6 – 8 thick slices bread
4 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 small can crushed pineapple (1/3 of can for topping)
2 ripe bananas (1 banana sliced is for topping)
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp brown sugar
Powdered sugar (called fairy dust at our house)
Shredded coconut (optional topping)

Directions
Combine eggs, milk, most of the crushed pineapple, one banana, vanilla and brown sugar in a blender (reserve some pineapple and one banana for topping). Pour mixture into a shallow bowl.

Heat a lightly oiled griddle or skillet over medium-high heat.

Dunk each slice of bread in egg mixture, soaking both sides. Place in pan, and cook on both sides until golden. Serve hot with the reserved crushed pineapple and banana slices on top.   Sprinkle with a little fairy dust and syrup.

…or Tropical Fruit Pizza
Spread out Pillsbury cookie dough on a pizza pan or cookie sheet; bake according to package directions
Spread yogurt on baked dough (you choose the flavor!)
Cut up banana, kiwi and strawberries and place on top of yogurt (these are your pizza toppings!)
Sprinkle with coconut
Enjoy!

Odds & Ends: Get Artsy this Fall!

Get artsy this fall with these options:

*Allied Arts of Yakima Valley, 5000 W. Lincoln Ave., Yakima; 509-966-0930. alliedartsyakima.org

Mommy and Me Art Class. 10-11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays from Sept. 20 to Oct. 6, Oct. 18-26, Nov. 1-22, and Nov. 29-Dec. 15. Moms can enjoy art class with a pre-kinder child. Moms are required to stay on site, and they can sit and socialize with other moms. Cost: $10 for members per session/$12 for non-members per session; $210/$252 for entire series (two free classes with series).

Special Needs Art Class. 3:45-5:15 p.m. Mondays, Sept. 19, Oct. 17, Nov. 14 & Dec. 12. Cost: $20 per session for members, $25 per session for non-members; $60/$75 for series (one free session with series).
Homeschool Art Class. 12:30-2 p.m. Wednesdays, Sept, 28-Nov. 16, and Nov. 30-Dec. 14. From elementary to high school courses. Art history and art creation. Cost: $20 per session for members, $25 per session for non-members; $200/$250 for entire series (2 free sessions for series).

• Hands on Art, 5603 Summitview, Yakima; 509-966-4248. Call for classes and schedules. hands-on-art.com

• Red Art Studio & Sunflower Studio, 2522 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima; 509-469-2766. Classes start Oct. 3.

Teen Art Studio. 3:30-5:30 p.m. For ages 10 and up. 4 weekly classes.

Kids’ Clay Studio. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays. For ages 6 and up. 4 weekly classes.

Itty Bitty Art. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Wednesdays. For ages 0-5; drop-in classes.

Kids’ Open Art Studio. 4-5:30 p.m. Wednesdays. All ages drop-in classes.

Also…

Laurie Kanyer to teach parenting classes at First Pres
A series of parenting classes will be offered to the community this fall at First Presbyterian Church.

Laurie Kanyer, who has authored several parenting books and has years of experience teaching classes on parenting, will lead “Parenting with Love and Limits” at 11 a.m. each Sunday from Sept. 25 to Nov. 20, with a break on Oct. 16. (See our daily calendar for weekly topics.)

The goal is to teach parents how to develop skills that encourage positive behavior, help them gain insight and improve family organization, which can reduce family stress and give parents a greater understanding of childhood development.

Childcare is provided for each class, and kids are permitted to gather in the gym.

For more information, visit First Presbyterian Church, located at 9 S. Eighth Ave. in Yakima, or call the church at 509-248-7940.

And…Summer’s over…time for Fall Sports!

SOCCER

Itty Bitty Soccer. 6-6:45 p.m. Tuesdays, Sept. 27-Oct. 17. For boys and girls ages 3-4. Learn the fundamentals of soccer. Cost: $48 non-resident, $40 resident. T-shirt and ball included. Located at Gateway Sports Complex at Kiwanis Park. Yakima Parks and Rec: 509-575-6020.

PeeWee Soccer. 6-7:15 Thursdays, Sept. 29-Oct. 20. For boys and girls ages 5-6. Fundamentals of soccer taught, and kids can improve on basics. Located at Gateway Sports Complex at Kiwanis Park. Cost: $48 non-resident, $40 resident. Yakima Parks and Rec: 509-575-6020.

BASKETBALL

Little Dribblers. 6-6:45 p.m. Mondays, Nov. 7-Dec. 12. For boys and girls ages 4-6. Learn the basics of basketball with group exercises and games. Registration: Oct. 3-Nov. 2. Cost: $32/$42/$52, depending on residency. Sunset Gym, Selah; register with Selah Parks and Recreation, 216 S. First St., Selah; 509-698-7300.

Harvest and Halloween Time!

 

 

One-Day Events:

Oct. 8:  Pumpkin Decorating for Kids – 10 a.m.
Class, supplies and pumpkin are free. Sponsored by Master Gardeners of Yakima County.
Located at Ahtanum Youth Park. 509-574-1600. mastergardeners-yakima.org

Oct. 15:  Harvest Marching Band Festival – 4:30 p.m. Finals at 6 p.m.
Cost: $10 adults for all-day pass, $7 for finals only; $7 students and seniors.
Zaepfel Stadium, 40th Avenue and Tieton Drive. harvestbands.org

Oct. 16:  Yakima Adventist Fall Festival – 1-4:00 p.m.
Games, prizes, bounce houses and hay rides to Washington Fruit Place.
Yakima Adventist Christian School, 1200 City Reservoir Road, Yakima; 509-966-1933.

Oct. 29:  Annual Pumpkin Run – 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Caboose ride, pump car rides, museum tours and a free pumpkin for each child.
Cost: $5 adults, $3 children 12 and younger.
Northern Pacific Railway Museum, 10 S. Asotin Ave., Toppenish; 509-865-2409.
nprymuseum.org

Oct. 30:  Halloween Farmers Market – 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Activities for kids plus special events. In front of The Capitol Theatre,
19 S. Third St., Yakima; 509-457-5765. yakimafarmersmarket.org

Nov. 1:  Cash 4 Candy – 3:30-6 p.m.
Kids 0-14 can trade their candy for money. Each pound of wrapped candy will be worth $1.
The candy will be sent to U.S. military troops overseas.
Yakima Pediatric Dentistry, 3909 Creekside Loop, Suite 140, Yakima; 509-834-2004.

Ongoing events in October:

Bill’s Berry Farm Apple & Pumpkin Festival
10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturdays, Sept. 24, Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22.
Pumpkins and apples available for picking. Make your own apple cider. Warm apple cider donuts, pony rides, hay rides, barnyard train rides, fire pits and marshmallows. Free admission.
Bill’s Berry Farm, 3674 N. County Line Road, Grandview; 509-882-7810.
billsberryfarm.com

Granger Pumpkin Patch
11 a.m.-6 p.m. every  day in October.
Hay ride, corn maze, jumpers, haunted house, petting zoo daily, and face painting and pumpkin carving during the weekends. Hot dogs, hamburgers, hot cocoa, and marshmallows for sale. Fire pit available for roasting marshmallows and making s’mores. Admission: $4.50 children, $5 adults. Babies younger than 1 are free. 1733 Beam Road, Granger. 509-376-2561.

Fun at Jones Farm Fruit Stand
Open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. daily through Oct. 31.
Straw maze, hay-bale pyramid with slide, duck pond and pumpkin patch, self-guided orchard
walk, picnic area. Free admission. Pumpkins and produce for sale at the fruit stand.
2020 Thacker Road, off East Zillah Drive, Zillah. 509-829-6024. jonesfarmsinc.com

October Days at Washington Fruit Place
10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sundays each weekend in October.
Cider tasting, hay rides, pumpkin patch, hay maze and apple variety tasting. Free events.
Barrett Orchards, 1209 Pecks Canyon Road, Yakima; 509-966-1275. treeripened.com

Schell’s Massive Corn Maze & Fall Harvest Funland
9 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Open daily through October, beginning Oct. 5.
Ten-acre corn maze, and a 2-acre maze with no dead-ends for kids, straw pyramid with slides, hay rides, pumpkin patch, petting zoo, pumpkin chucker, haunted house, bonfire pits and barbecues. Admission includes carving pumpkin: $8.50 adults/$6 children ages 3-10 and
seniors 65+/children ages 2 and younger free with paid adult.
Schell’s Produce. Two locations: 3213 Tacoma St. in Union Gap, 509-453-3200;
and three miles east of Toppenish on Highway 22 at Harris Road, 509-865-4511.

Suncadia 6th Annual Harvest Festival
9 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday; noon-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 7-9 and Oct. 14-16.
Pumpkin patch, straw maze, beer garden, vendors, pony and tractor rides, canine
costume contest and live music. Free admission.
Located at the historic Nelson Dairy Road, Cle Elum.
Contact Karen Porter at 509-649-6204. suncadia.com

Thompson’s Farm Pumpkin Patch
10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays in October.
Pumpkin patch, pumpkin cannon, hay rides, farm animals, U-pick and U-select apples,
cornstalks, squash and gourds.
Thompson’s Farm, 9535 Old Naches Highway, Naches; 509-949-3450.
thompsonsfarm.com

Get Haunted!

Yakima Haunt Night
Oct. 28: Time TBD (call for details)
Visit local haunted houses in a group led by Yakima Public Works. Meet at Public Works for pizza first. Cost: $18 non-resident, $15 resident. 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima; 509-575-6020.

Grandview’s Annual Haunted House
October 28-29, 5:30-10 p.m.
Haunted house, games, food and more. Cost: $4 age 13 and older, $3 ages 12 and
younger and seniors. Sponsored by Miss Grandview Program and Grandview Music Boosters.
135 Division St., Grandview; 509-882-3198. visitgrandview.org

Haunted Depot at Northern Pacific Railway Museum
October 28-31, 7-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 7-10 p.m. Sunday and Monday.
Ghosts, goblins and a fright around each corner as patrons tour the haunted depot and
two haunted railway cars. Cost: $5 per person; for ages 13 and older.
10 S. Asotin Ave., Toppenish; 509-865-2409. nprymuseum.org/npmuseumschedule.htm

Halloween Trolley
October 29-31, 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.
Brace yourselve for a haunted journey on a trolley and take a pumpkin home.
Call for cost and details.
Yakima Valley Trolleys, S. 3rd Avenue and W. Pine St., Yakima; 509-249-5962. yakimavalleytrolleys.org

Trunk or Treat:

Montessori Harvest Festival
October 30, 3-5 p.m.
For kids ages 2-7. Games, activities, crafts, prizes and a bake sale. Kids encouraged
to dress up in costumes. Fundraiser; open to the community. Cost: $5 per child.
511 N. 44th Ave., on the corner of Englewood and 44th avenues, Yakima; 509-930-8789.

WestPress Carnival
October 31, 5:30-7 p.m.
Halloween-themed carnival games and more. Takes place in church parking lot.
Free/open to the public.
Westminster Presbyterian Church, 6015 Summitview Ave., Yakima.

Harvest Community Church Halloween Party
October 31, 6-8 p.m.
Harvest Community Church (and local area merchants) is hosting the Selah
Community Halloween Party at the Selah Civic Center. Kids birth-10 years old.
Kid-friendly costumes welcome. 509-697-8300.

Books and Films for Parents-to-Be

Books and Films for Parents and Parents-To-Be

Books

Sure, there’s always What to Expect When You’re Expecting and the other titles in the series, but you might want to check out these reads for ideas, inspiration and a variety of perspectives (sometimes controversial) on topics from pregnancy to parenting.

Origins: How the Nine Months Before Birth Shape the Rest of Our Lives by Annie Murphy Paul.

Paul examines (mostly from a scientific perspective) just how important these early stages of life are and how they can affect many areas of development, from diet and nutrition to stress and other environmental factors.

Pregnancy Haiku: Three Short Lines for Your Nine Long Months by Eugenie Olson.

In honor of the haiku form (three lines with five syllables in the first, seven syllables in the second and five syllables in the third), here’s a haiku to describe the book:

Fun and creative,

Poetry allows a voice

For expecting moms.

NurtureShock: New Thinking About Children by Po Bronson and Ashley Merryman.

Oh, what a tangled web we weave when we consider contemporary parenting styles, and maybe we weave a greater web when we share our ideas with others. Bronson and Merryman aren’t shy about this topic, though, and in their book they argue that most of the techniques and beliefs that guide us as parents might be ineffective, misguided and even dangerous.

Hatched!: The Big Push from Pregnancy to Motherhood by Sloane Tanen.

A humorous take on pregnancy and parenting, as chickens take on such subjects as gestation, epidurals, labor, stretch marks and being a parent.

There’s Going to Be a Baby by John Burningham and Helen Oxenbury.

A great story by the acclaimed writing and illustrating married couple, and a great story to share with your children to help them get ready for a new sibling.

Indestructibles (series). These are for the little ones, not for you, Mom or Dad! (Unless your stress levels get too high …) For ages 0 and older, these amazing, inexpensive creations are waterproof, bite-proof, tear-proof and economic recession-proof (OK, just kidding on that last one).

Films

Babies (2010).

This documentary follows four families in different parts of the world as they raise their babies.

The Business of Being Born (2008).

The filmmakers of this documentary explore the possibilities that birthing is a profit-motive business, and explore alternative methods, such as home pregnancies.

Happiest Baby on the Block (2003).

This film (see also the book with the same title) features Dr. Harvey Karp’s techniques on calming babies, reducing crying and helping them sleep better and longer.

Magic Tree House Parties!

Yakima Valley Libraries is hosting a number of Magic Treehouse Parties in January at various branches. Come join in the fun to make crafts and play games from different historical eras. All activities are inspired by Mary Pope Osborne’s Magic Tree House series. The events are designed for kids in grades 1-4, or ages 5-10.

Here is a listing of times and locations:

Yakima (Downtown) Library, 4 p.m. January 11. 102 N. Third Street, Yakima. 509-452-8541.

Granger Library. 3 p.m. January 12. 508 Sunnyside Ave., Granger. 509-854-1446.

Buena Library, 3:30 p.m. January 13. 801 Buena Road, Buena. 509-865-3390.

Southeast Library, 11 a.m. January 14. 1211 S. Seventh Street, Yakima. 509-576-0723.

Summitview Library, 11 a.m. January 15. 5709 Summitview, Yakima. 509-966-7070.

Zillah Library, 3:30 p.m. January 18. 109 7th, Zillah. 509-829=6707.

Sunnyside Library, 4 p.m. January 20. 621 Grant, Sunnyside. 509-837-3234.

White Swan Library, 3 p.m. January 24. 391 First Street, White Swan. 509-874-2060.

Wapato Library, 3 p.m. January 26. 119 East 3rd Street, Wapato. 509-877-2882.

Selah Library, 3:30 p.m. January 27. 106 South Second Street, Selah. 509-698-7345.

You can also visit yvl.org or call 509-452-8541 for more information.

Time for Sports!

Here’s the round-up of Winter/Spring 2011 sports offerings around the area:

BASEBALL

Beginner Pee Wee T-Ball. Boys and girls, ages 4-5. This introduction workshop includes 30 minutes of instruction followed by a 30-minute game. Meets 6:15-7:15 p.m. Wednesdays, March 23-April 13 at the Gateway Sports Complex at Kiwanis Park. Cost: $15-$20, depending on residency. Register by March 14 with Yakima Parks, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima; 575-6020.

Selah T-Ball. Boys and girls, ages 5-7. Teams will be assigned and games played on T-Ball fields once a week, with one to two practices each week. League play in May and June at Lince Field, 316 W. Naches Ave., Selah. Cost: $35-$55, depending on residency. Register February 28-March 30 with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

BASKETBALL

Little Dribblers. Boys and girls, ages 4-6. Basketball basics, including dribbling and passing, sportsmanship and teamwork will be taught. Group exercises and games will promote coordination and balance. Parents are encouraged to assist. Meets 6-6:45 p.m. Mondays from Jan. 17-Feb. 21 at the Selah Civic Center. Cost: $31-$45, depending on residency. Register with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

FOOTBALL

Selah Youth Flag Football. Boys and girls, grades 3-6. Boys and girls will play together in this no-tackle, pass-only league with six on a side. Two divisions: Grades 3-4 and grades 5-6. League play will be in May and June at Lince Field, 316 W. Naches Ave., Selah. Cost: $43-$65, depending on residency; includes a T-shirt. Register March 14-April 11 with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

SOCCER

Indoor Tiny Tykes Soccer. Boys and girls, ages 4-5. Introduce soccer basics in a warm, dry environment. Meets 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Feb. 15-24 at Whitney Elementary. Cost: $28-34, depending on residency, includes T-shirt. Register with Yakima Parks, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima. 575-6020.

Itty Bitty Soccer League. Boys and girls, ages 3-4. Parent-child class teaches kids the fundamentals of dribbling, passing and shooting. Learn teamwork, make new friends and play games. Meets from 6-6:45 p.m. Thursdays, April 7-28 at Chesterley Park. Cost is $40-$48, depending on residency; includes a T-shirt and ball. Register with Yakima Parks, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima. 575-6020.

YMCA Itty Bitty Soccer. Boys and girls, ages 3-6. Games and practices in YMCA Shinn Gym. 5:30-6:30 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday nights. Cost is $35-$55, depending on YMCA membership level. Session: Jan. 18-Feb. 24. Registration open until Jan. 12.

Spring Break Soccer Camp. Boys and girls, grades 1-8. High quality soccer coaching program teaches youth fundamental and advanced skills of the game. Sponsored by Yakima Parks and Rec and Sun City Strikers Club, this 3-day camp runs Mar. 29-31 at Chesterley Park. Two sessions: 8 a.m. to 12 noon, & 1-5 p.m. Cost is $60-$72, depending on residency, includes water, snacks, and a T-shirt. Register with Yakima Parks, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima. 575-6020.

Selah Football Club Spring Soccer League. Boys and girls, grades K-6. Weeknights & Saturdays, March 13-April 24 in Selah. Cost: $42-$60, depending on residency; $4 late fee after Feb. 19. Jersey replacement fee is $15, if play has outgrown or lost jersey from fall season. Register Feb. 1-18 with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

Selah Tiny Tots Intro to Soccer. Boys and girls, ages 3-5. Meets 10-10:45 a.m. Saturdays, March 12-April 23, at Lince Play Field, across Naches Ave. from Lince Elementary in Selah. Cost: $38-$50, depending on residency; includes a T-shirt. Register Feb. 1-Feb. 18 with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

Upward Soccer Program (West Valley). Boys and girls, ages 4 through grade 6. Promotes fundamental soccer skills and building self-esteem, giving each child equal playing time and recognition. Season runs for 10 weeks, with practices one hour per week and games on 8 Saturdays, from March 14-May 22. Early registration is Dec. 13 until Jan. 24, 2011. Registration cost: $70, which includes a full uniform (shorts, jersey, and socks). The deadline for late registration, which costs $80, is Jan. 31, 2011. Contact Lisa at 966-1550, ext. 60 or upward@westvalleychurch.com. West Valley Church, 7109 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima. westvalleychurch.com.

SWIM LESSONS

Lions Pool. Various classes and times offered. Pool fees: $3.75 adult, $2 youth, $10 family. Three-month pass: $89 adult, $46 youth, $190 family. 509 W. Pine St., Yakima; 575-6046.

• Recreational Swimming. Schedule now until Feb. 20: 1:30-3 p.m. Saturdays and 7-9 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 5-6:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Starting Feb. 21: 3:15-4:45 p.m. Monday-Friday, 1-3 p.m. & 7-9 p.m. Saturdays.
• Baby and Me, for tots 6 months to 3 years, 10-11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays.
• Preschool H2O Play, 10-11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays.
• Funky Friday Nights (‘80s theme), 7-8:30 p.m. Fridays. Cost: $0.50 for kids, $1 adults, $0.75 seniors (62 and older), or $3.25 per family.
• Home-School Swim, which gives home-school students an opportunity to receive P.E. credits or just socialize with fellow home-schooled kids, begins Feb. 21. Meets 1:30-3 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

YMCA Swim Lessons. Ages 6 months and up. Parent/child classes are offered for children ages 6 months and up. Session: Jan. 24-Feb. 16. Two times: 6 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Call for cost and other information. Yakima Family YMCA, 5 N. Naches Ave., Yakima; 248-1202. yakimaymca.org.

WINTER FUN AT WHITE PASS

White Pass Kids’ Clinic. Boys and girls, ages 5-12. Full-day skiing or snowboarding clinics with specialized children’s instructors. Sessions offered Jan. 15, 16, 29, and 30; Feb. 12, 13, 26, and 27; Mar. 12, 13, 26, and 27. Cost: $85 single day, $120 weekend; includes lunch, snacks and lift tickets. Register with The Learning Center at White Pass, 509-672-3101.

Ski 4 Kids Race Weekend. Open to intermediate skiers and riders, ages 6-12. All-day training on Saturday, races on Sunday followed by awards ceremony and hot dog banquet. Winter Carnival, Mar. 5-6. For more information, call The Learning Center at White Pass, 509-672-3101.

SPECIAL OFFERINGS

Family Open Gym. Open for families who love sports, including basketball, whiffle ball, volleyball and more. Meets 4-6 p.m. the first and third Sunday of each month through April at the Sunset Gym in Selah. Cost: Free. Register with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

Horsemanship Class. Ages 5 and up. Beginning class teaches the nature of horses and covers safety, grooming, leading, haltering, saddling, bridling and mounting. Participants will also play games and make a stick horse. Meets 3:30-4:30 p.m. Two sessions: Tuesdays, Jan. 11-Feb. 1; and Tuesdays, Feb. 15-Mar. 8. Cost: $25-$35, depending on residency. Register with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

Indoor Preschool Playtime. For preschoolers and parents. Time allows for kids to play and parents to meet other parents. Bring own trikes or wheeled toys. Meets 10 a.m. to noon Wednesdays, from Jan. 6-Mar. 24 at Selah Civic Center. Call for availability. Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

KIDS Intro to Rock Climbing. Learn basic skills of rock climbing and how to Top Rope Belay. Meets 10 a.m. to 12 noon Feb. 5 at Central Washington University’s Rock Wall in Ellensburg. Cost: $20 per participant. Register with Selah Parks, 216 S. First St., Selah; 698-7300.

Snowy Selections

Brrr, it’s still cold outside!  But that’s good news for those of you wanting to get out in the snow and have some fun.  Here are a few selections:

Cardboard Snow Sled Derby. Create a sled and race as a team of 2-5 people. Sleds judged on speed and artistry/construction. Check-in at 12:30 p.m.; begins 1 p.m. Jan. 23. Location TBD. Cost: $5 per sled entry; includes cookies and hot cocoa. Pre-registration required. Contact Yakima Parks, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima; 575-6020.

Snow Sculpture Family Challenge. Families of all ages are encouraged to participate in the first Snow Sculpture challenge. Each family is allowed 90 minutes to build any type of snow sculpture they wish. Bring your own construction tools. Meets 1-2:30 p.m. Jan. 23; judging begins at 2:30 p.m. Location TBD. Cost: Free, and cookies and hot cocoa are provided. Pre-registration required. Contact Yakima Parks, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima; 575-6020.

White Pass Kids’ Clinic. Boys and girls, ages 5-12. Full-day skiing or snowboarding clinics with specialized children’s instructors. Sessions offered Jan. 15, 16, 29, and 30; Feb. 12, 13, 26, and 27; Mar. 12, 13, 26, and 27. Cost: $85 single day, $120 weekend; includes lunch, snacks and lift tickets. Register with The Learning Center at White Pass, 509-672-3101.

Ski 4 Kids Race Weekend. Open to intermediate skiers and riders, ages 6-12. All-day training on Saturday, races on Sunday followed by awards ceremony and hot dog banquet. Winter Carnival, Mar. 5-6. For more information, call The Learning Center at White Pass, 509-672-3101.

Heading for Sledding Season

Kids all crave snow days, but how about one out of town? Yakima Parks and Recreation is offering four sledding field trips at Snoqualmie Pass in December. Kids in grades 5-8 can enjoy snow-tubing adventures, which include machine-groomed lanes, commercial-grade tubes with covers and surface tows to bring you back up to the top of the hill. Transportation is provided; kids meet at Public Works, 2301 Fruitvale Blvd., Yakima.

Dates: Dec. 20, Dec. 22, Dec. 27 and Dec. 29. Cost: $54 nonresident, $45 resident discount. 509-575-6020.

Aquatics at Lions Pool

We may be in cold-weather season, but Lions Pool still has plenty of aquatics offerings through the rest of fall and winter. Pool fees: $3.75 adult, $2 youth, $10 family. Three-month pass: $89 adult, $46 youth, $190 family. Lions Pool, 509 W. Pine St., Yakima; 509-575-6046.

• Recreational swimming, 1:30-3 p.m. Saturdays and 7-9 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 5-6:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
• Baby and Me, for tots 6 months-3 years, 10-11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.
• Preschool H2O Play, 10-11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.
• Funky Friday Nights (’80s theme), 7-8:30 p.m. Fridays. Cost: $0.50 for kids, $1 adults, $0.75 seniors (62 and older), or $3.25 per family.

Kick Back with Karate and a Movie

By Scott Klepach, Jr.

Photo courtesy of the Yakima Greenway

We all know about having popcorn with a movie, but what about a little bit of karate first?

Pro-Action Family Martial Arts is offering just that Aug. 7, as it hosts its “Martial Arts Night & Movie” at Sarg Hubbard Park in partnership with Yakima Parks & Recreation and the Yakima Greenway’s “Kiddin’ Around” program.

The free event begins at 7:30 p.m. with a demonstration and brief class, and at sunset a family-friendly martial arts movie will be shown.

“Our involvement in the Kid Fit programming at the Greenway has been fun and exciting for both our school, the staff at the Greenway, and most importantly, the kids of Yakima,” said Ernie Brennecke, senior instructor – or sensei – at Pro-Action. “Last time we did something like this, the attendance was significant, and I play best with and to large audiences.”

Last year, more than 100 kids participated in the event. The opening demonstration is aimed at giving the public a peek at what karate is all about.

“So we don’t just do something, but we talk about what we’re doing, too,” said Erik Brennecke, Ernie’s son and a sensei with Pro-Action. 

Following the demo, the Brenneckes, along with other instructors and students, will hold a 10-minute class for kids. While last year’s class was aerobic-based, this year’s will focus on self-defense.

“We’re going to keep it basic. We like to teach basic risk escape, and maybe some palm strikes,” said Brennecke, who noted punching with a fist takes conditioning. “This is for the kids to get excited about karate.”

All ages are welcome. For more information, contact the Yakima Greenway at 509-453-8280, or visit yakimagreenway.org.

Let’s Read!

By Scott Klepach, Jr.

Discovering and Sharing New and Classic Books

Erin Chaplin, Yakima School District’s director of literacy, said reading aloud to children will help them become excited about reading themselves – and become better readers – but this method can be expanded beyond just a published text.

“Parents reading with kids is always good, but even talking with kids in the car is good,” said Chaplin. “For example, if you are in the car and see a tree, you can ask, ‘What rhymes with tree?’”

This communication can help build a child’s vocabulary and language skills, Chaplin continued, especially if parents do not have many other resources.

Like Chaplin, Linda Nixon emphasizes the importance of reading stories out loud to children.

“Listening to audiobooks as a family is a great way to generate that lifelong love of reading,” said Nixon, who is the Yakima Valley Regional Library system’s public programs librarian.

YVL recently launched the “50 Nifty Family Read-aloud” list, which offers the most popular titles to be shared out loud, as determined by the library’s staff. (See the sidebar for more information on these and other titles.)

“The staff arranged the list by how experienced a listener would be,” said Nixon. “There are books for experienced listeners and for beginners.”

Though new books are certainly popular, Nixon noted some books are always in demand.

“Libraries have asked for replacement copies of standard reads,” Nixon said. Such titles include classics such as “Little House on the Prairie,” among others. “Some things just never go out of style.”

Chaplin recommends that parents check out Reading Rockets (readingrockets.org), a literacy website, which offers reading resources in English and Spanish.

“It offers great parents’ resources (and) things to do at home,” she said. “There are great tips for all age levels, for babies, toddlers and children.”

Beloved Titles: “Fifty Nifty Family Read-alouds” and “Hot 100 Picture Books for Kids” at the Library

Linda Nixon, Yakima Valley Regional Library’s children services manager, said many of the titles on the library’s list of best read-alouds and children’s picture books are likely to excite parents, because they will remember reading or listening to them when they were kids.

Some of the beginning listener titles on the list are Kate DiCamillo’s “Because of Winn-Dixie,” E.B. White’s “Charlotte’s Web,” Beverly Cleary’s “The Mouse and the Motorcycle,” and Laura Ingalls Wilder’s “Little House in the Big Woods.”

Mary Norton’s “The Borrowers,” Lynne Reid Banks’ “The Indian in the Cupboard,” C.S. Lewis’ “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” Roald Dahl’s “Matilda,” Frances Hodgson Burnett’s “The Secret Garden,” and Gail Carson Levine’s “Ella Enchanted” graced the intermediate listeners’ list.

Experienced listeners can select from L.M. Montgomery’s “Anne of Green Gables,” Lemony Snicket’s “The Bad Beginning,” Madeleine L’Engle’s “A Wrinkle in Time,” Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Treasure Island,” Brian Jacques’ “Redwall,” and Cornelia Funke’s “Inkheart.”

Last December, the library published another booklist called the “Hot 100 Picture Books for Kids.” The titles also were selected by the staff. Nixon said some families have taken a personal pledge to read all of the titles in 2010, while others make a goal to have their children read all of them by the time they reach kindergarten.

Perennial favorites made the list, including Judy Schachner’s “Skippyjon Jones,” Eric Carle’s “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” Dr. Seuss’ “Green Eggs and Ham,” Maurice Sendak’s “Where the Wild Things Are,” and Margaret Wise Brown’s “Goodnight Moon.”

Stop by one of the library’s branches, or head to the library’s online blog to learn more about these booklists: yakimavalleylibraries.wordpress.com.

Have You Checked Out These Books Yet?

Inklings Bookshop and Borders have chimed in with some popular titles this year as well. Jeff Kinney’s “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series is a favorite for middle readers, while “Skippyjon Jones, Lost in Spice” and others in the series lead the way for younger readers. Big names like the “Twilight” series continue to be popular as well.

At Inklings, these classic and new titles are super popular:

Popular board books:

“Pat the Bunny,” Dorothy Kunhardt

“Barnyard Dance,” Sandra Boynton

“Goodnight Moon,” Margaret Wise Brown

Best-selling poetry:

“Where the Sidewalk Ends,” Shel Silverstein

“A Child’s Garden of Verses,” Robert Louis Stevenson

Several picture books continue to make the top of the charts. These are “Fancy Nancy Heart to Heart: Valentine’s Special” (part of the “Fancy Nancy” series), by Jane O’Connor, and “Star Wars: A Scanimation Book,” by Rufus Butler Seder, which is the top seller this summer at the bookstore.

Here are the hottest reads at Borders this summer:

Ages 3 and younger:

“Gallop!” Rufus Butler Seder

“Chicka chicka boom boom! Will there be enough room?” Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault

Ages 4-8:

“Skippyjon Jones, Lost in Spice,” Judy Schachner

“Marley and the Kittens,” John Grogan

Ages 8-12:

“The Dork Diaries” (series), Rachel Renée Russel

“Diary of a Wimpy Kid” (series), Jeff Kinney

“The 39 Clues” (series), Rick Riordan

Ages 12 and older:

“The Hunger Games,” Suzanne Collins

“Fallen,” Lauren Kate

“Forest of Hands & Teeth,” Carrie Ryan

Borders is also offering a fun reading challenge this summer for children 12 and younger called the “Borders 10 Double Dog Dare Challenge.” If kids read any 10 books and fill out the Double Dog Dare form available at the store or on the website, they will earn a free book featured on Borders’ preselected list of titles.

Kiddin’ Around = Outdoor Fun

Kiddin’ Around is a summerlong activity program designed to get kids and their families movin’ in the great outdoors. Much like a summer reading program, kids can earn participation points that add up to fitness-themed prize incentives, such as swim passes, and will culminate with a drawing for larger prizes at the end of the summer.

The program kicks off May 1 with Family Field Day at Sarg Hubbard Park. Other activities planned throughout the summer include tennis lessons, community gardening and using a GPS device to explore the Greenway.

Participants can register for the program at Family Field Day or any event, or stop by the Yakima Greenway office at Sarg Hubbard Park.

Here’s the lineup of events and activities:

INDIVIDUAL ACTIVITIES

BIRDIN’ AROUND | Second and fourth Wednesdays. Guided bird walks along the Yakima Greenway or Cowiche Canyon. Free. Check schedule at yakimaaudubon.org.

GOLFIN’ AROUND | Golf nine or 18 holes of golf (not miniature) and turn in signed scorecard to the Greenway for points credit. Greens fee required.

PHOTO SCAVENGER HUNT | Use your digital camera or check one out from the Greenway office (9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday) to snap photos along the greenway. Free. Call 453-8280 to reserve a camera and get the list of scavenger items.

TECHIN’ & TREKKIN’ | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays. Check out a GPS and record your mileage as you bike or walk the Greenway. Free; call 453-8280 to reserve a GPS.

WALKIN’ THE DOG | Check out a dog from the Humane Society and go for a walk. Adult participation required. Dog walking hours are 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. weekdays and 12-3:30 p.m. Saturdays. Call 457-6854 for more information.

GROUP EVENTS

FAMILY FIELD DAY | 1-4 p.m. Saturday, May 1. This free event promotes good nutrition, exercise and family fun. Activities include an obstacle course, jump rope, soccer, kayaking, hula hoops and “an unbelievable game of tag.” Sponsored by the Yakima Greenway Foundation, CWU Dietetic Interns and FitKids USA. Held at Sarg Hubbard Park (next to eastside WalMart), 111 S. 18th St., Yakima; 453-8280.

KIDS’ FISH-IN | 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 8. Kids ages 5-14 can learn to fish and keep their catch at this trout-stocked event, which replaces Fishing Kids. Cost is $5 per kid and includes a rod and reel. Participants are assigned a 30-minute slot at the Sarg Hubbard Park Reflection Pond. Hosted by Go Play Outside Alliance of Washington. Limited to 800 kids. Download a registration form at gopaw.org or yakimagreenway.org or call 453-8280.

HIKIN’ AROUND | 9 a.m. Saturday, May 15. Bring hiking shoes and water for a gentle hike through Cowiche Canyon. Free; stroller accessible. Meet at the Weikel Road parking lot; find directions at cowichecanyon.org. Hosted by Cowiche Canyon Conservancy. To register, call 453-8280.

FITNESS FOR KIDS MARATHON | 6 p.m. Friday, May 21. Participants run or walk 25 miles on their own, with adult supervision, then join others to run or walk the last 1.2-mile leg of the marathon on May 21. School Mileage Club laps count towards the first 25 miles. Cost is $5, which includes a T-shirt, finisher ribbon and other prizes. Registration begins at 4:30 p.m. Run/walk starts at 6 p.m. Meets at Sarg Hubbard Park. Hosted by Yakima Hard Core Runners Club, HCRunners.org.

GOLFIN’ AROUND | 1 p.m. Sunday, May 23. Youth ages 5-14 can start learning to golf at this free event hosted by The First Tee of Yakima and Yakima Parks & Recreation. Equipment is provided. Pre-registration is required; call 949-6349 by May 17. Meets at Fisher Park Golf Course, 823 S. 40th Ave., Yakima. For information, go to thefirstteeyakima.org.

JUNIOR GAP2GAP RELAY | 6-11 a.m. Saturday, June 5. Kids ages 6-14 can test their endurance and skill in this 21th annual youth relay on the Yakima Greenway. (Gap2Gap, the grown-up counterpart, marks its 26th anniversary this year.) In 2009, 431 youth competed in this bike, run, in-line skate, kayaking and obstacle course challenge. Just for fun, there’s also a best T-shirt competition. Juniors may compete as individuals or teams. The fee is $15; register by May 26 at yakimagreenway.org or call 453-8280.

YCTA TENNIS FREE-4-ALL | 1-3 p.m. Sunday, June 6. Ages 5 and up can learn how to play tennis or improve their game. Quickstart session for ages 5-10. Registration begins at 12:30 p.m. Free. Kissel Park, corner of S. 32nd and Mead avenues, Yakima. Hosted by Yakima Community Tennis Association; contact erobbins@ycta.info.

KIDDIN’ AROUND IN THE GARDEN | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 12. Learn how to grow food, take home a veggie plant. Free. Hosted by Rev it Up! and United Christian Church. Meets at the church, 317 S. 41st St. in Terrace Heights.

JUNIOR BOOT CAMP | 1 p.m. Saturday, June 19. Cardio, strength and flexibility exercises outdoors. Free; call 972-5276 to register by June 16. Hosted by Yakima Family YMCA, 5 N. Naches Ave., Yakima.

POWER WALKIN’ 4 KIDS | 9-10 a.m. Friday, June 25. Take a guided walk with jumping, running and laughing along the way. Free. Meet at Sarg Hubbard Park at the Yakima Greenway.

SNAPPIN’ AROUND | 6-8 p.m. Saturday, July 10. Learn to use a digital camera. Limited cameras available or bring your own. Free; must call 453-6348 by July 9 to register. Meet at Sarg Hubbard Park at the Yakima Greenway.

SPLASHIN’ AROUND | 1-4 p.m. Saturday, July 17. Free swimming at Franklin Pool, 21st Avenue and Tieton Drive, Yakima. Multiple sessions. Hosted by Yakima Parks & Recreation. Call 576-6348 or 575-6035 for details.

KIDDIN’ AROUND IN THE GARDEN | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 24. Learn how to grow food, take home a veggie plant. Free. Hosted by Rev it Up! and United Christian Church. Meets at the church, 317 S. 41st St. in Terrace Heights.

KICKIN’ AROUND | 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 1. Ages 6-14 can learn the game of soccer and practice basic skills. Free; must call 575-6020 by July 23 to pre-register. Hosted by Yakima Parks & Recreation at Chesterley Park, N. 40th Avenue and River Road, Yakima.

MARTIAL ARTS NIGHT/OUTDOOR SUMMER CINEMA | 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 7. Martial arts demonstration and learn basic self-defense moves. “The Karate Kid,” rated PG, begins at sunset. Sarg Hubbard Park at the Yakima Greenway, yakimagreenway.org. Outdoor Summer Cinema presented by Allied Arts, alliedartsyakima.org.

POWER WALKIN’ 4 KIDS | 9-10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 14. Take a guided walk with jumping, running and laughing along the way. Free. Meet at Sarg Hubbard Park at the Yakima Greenway.

BEARS BASEBALL SKILLS CLINIC | 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 21. Learn how to hit and catch the ball with Yakima Bears staff and players. Free; must call 453-8280 by Aug. 11 to register. Meets at Yakima County Stadium, 1301 S. Fair Ave., Yakima.

HOT SHOTS 3-ON-3 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT | Aug. 28-29. Youth, high school and adult teams shoot hoops on the streets in downtown Yakima. Watching is free. To play, you’ll need to register; deadline is Aug. 5. The fee for youth teams is $90. Yakima Valley Sports Commission,  yakimahotshots.org; 573-3010.

LET IT SNOW! How to enjoy winter weather

By Heather Caro
If spending another winter holed up with restless children has you shaking in your mukluks, rest assured, there is another solution: Teach your children (and maybe yourself) to enjoy the frosty tundra by trying a new winter sport.

From sledding to snowboarding, snowshoeing to skiing, there is something to turn even the most devout sun worshipers to the snow side.

WHERE TO PLAY Hyak Sno-Park Online: parks.wa.gov/winter, click the Blewett section on the map Directions: The park is situated next to the Iron Horse State Park trail head. Take I-82 to Ellensburg, then I-90 west to Exit 54. Distance from Yakima is about 90 miles. Note: Sno-Park permits are required. Permits are $20 for a day, or $40 for the season. Details are available at parks.wa.gov/winter/permits.asp Snoqualmie Pass Summit Tubing Online: summit-at-snoqualmie.com Directions: Take I-82 to Ellensburg, then I-90 west to Exit 53. Distance from Yakima is about 90 miles. White Pass Online: skiwhitepass.com Directions: Head west on U.S. Highway 12. The ski area is 50 miles west of Yakima. Park along either side of the highway. _______________________________ GET THE GEAR Secondhand gear is plentiful. Check with family and friends whose kids may have outgrown their gear. Ski swaps and thrift stores are also great places to stock up. Or, try these local snow gurus for rental gear in children’s sizes: Little Red Schoolhouse, Naches; 509-653-2041 Sporthaus, Yakima; 509-966-6695 Mountain High Sports, Ellensburg; 509-925-4626

For the winter novice, it’s hard to go wrong with a good sled run. Franklin Park in Yakima has one of the best sledding hills around but if you’re ready to venture further from home, the possibilities are endless.

For something new, try Hyak Sno-Park on Snoqualmie Pass, a popular spot with a 300-foot sledding run. Bring your own sleds or tubes; there are no rentals or tow rope, but the slope is an easy climb.

Snoqualmie Pass also boasts its own weekend Summit Tubing Area (formerly Snowflake), located near the Summit Central Ski area.

In season, Summit Tubing is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The park offers groomed lanes, covered tubes and tow ropes to get you back up the hill. Daily rates are $5 to $20.

Sledding and tubing also are allowed off any forest service road and finding your own family hill can be fun.

If downhill skiing or snowboarding are more your interest, family-friendly White Pass offers a variety of lifts and classes for all skill levels, even childcare. Snoqualmie offers similar services and was recently named one of the Top 10 Terrain Parks in the U.S. and Canada by Freeskier Magazine. Both mountains offer groomed trails, equipment rentals and dining facilities.

If the crowds and lift ticket prices have scared you away from the downhill variety, perhaps cross-country skiing is for you. Groomed trails make skiing a breeze and the relative quiet creates ideal wildlife spotting.

Children old enough to walk are able to begin cross-country skiing, though the first few outings should be short to avoid frustration. If Mom and Dad are confident skiers, even the youngest tots can enjoy the snow when tucked into a pack or towed along in a ski sled.

Similarly, snowshoeing is an activity the whole family can easily master and enjoy together. New lighter production materials and children’s sizes help ease little legs and can turn a snowy hike into an exciting adventure.

So now that you know, what are you waiting for? Put down that mug of cocoa, bundle up and go have some fun!

TIPS FOR ENJOYING THE SNOW WITH KIDS

• Dress the part
  • Try to layer clothing, avoiding cotton, which holds in moisture.
  • Bring an extra set of gloves to change into mid-day; you’ll be glad you did.
  • Consider investing in gaiters. Snowy socks can dampen the day of even the most enthusiastic outdoor aficionado. Gaiters are the answer.
  • Also, it may be cold outside but don’t forget the sunblock! Protect little eyes from glare with kid-sized ski goggles or sunglasses attached with Croakies.

• Safety first
  • Scope out routes ahead of time for obstacles that could cause injury. Choose sledding hills that do not cross traffic and are free from large trees, fences, rocks and telephone poles. Never play on ponds or frozen water which may give way under pressure.
  • Enforce the use of helmets. A majority of snow-related injuries could be avoided with this simple practice.
  • Try to avoid overcrowded areas which increase risk of collision, among other frustrations. Identify a meeting spot should you and your child become separated.
  • Always supervise outdoor play. You may not prevent injury, but medical attention can be obtained more quickly if it occurs.

• Prepare, prepare, prepare
  • Choose terrain that will be accessible to everyone in the group. Don’t go out when it’s bad weather and try to choose short outings when first learning skills.
  • Turn outings into an adventure by choosing fun destinations and playing games. Animal tracking and I-spy can be fun.
  • Set goals, such as reaching a destination or a planned picnic lunch. And, remember to bring lots of snacks — we like M&M’s, PowerBars, gorp and hot chocolate — and push fluids.

Discover Cowiche Canyon

By Sara Bristol

Enjoying the great outdoors as a family doesn’t always mean loading up the ice chest, marshmallows and tent poles into the SUV and driving for hours in search of a nice, quiet place.

Nature, it turns out, is right here in our backyard.

Just a few miles west of Yakima, the Cowiche Canyon Trail is a great place for little legs to get some trail time. Built on the bed of an abandoned railroad line, the 2.9-mile trail is flat and wide; a sturdy jogging stroller should be able to handle the gravel trail bed. On foot, the walk is definitely more of a stroll than a hike – especially with dawdling preschoolers.

“I think it’s a great place for kids,” says David Hagen, a board member of the Cowiche Canyon Conservancy, the non-profit group that owns and manages the trail. “Being an old railroad bed, the trail is so flat and wide that it’s really safe. It’s a great place for kids to be out in nature.”

In July, six families with young children joined Hagen for a guided tour of the Canyon Trail, which features nine trestle bridges over Cowiche Creek. Our bunch, the most intrepid, made it to bridge No. 6 before stopping for a snack and turning back.

Be sure to use sunscreen, bring plenty of water and plan your walk during the cooler hours of the day. The trail is especially sun-blasted in summer when the sun is high. When the sun is lower on the horizon, the canyon walls may provide some shade.

Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit the canyon, recommends Hagen. “Spring has all the flowers, so it’s prettier and it’s green,” he says, adding that the trees’ fall colors are lovely, too, beginning in mid-September.

The canyon’s towering cliffs are mostly Columbia River basalt, a volcanic rock that spewed up from the earth’s surface up to 17 million years ago. Swirly formations along the top of the canyon’s north side are a different type of volcanic rock called andesite.

Want some more rockin’ trivia? This is the longest known flow of andesite in the world. (Hey, I knew you’d like that.)

Along the trail, a lush border of trees and shrubs line Cowiche Creek, but the trail’s overall topography is more representative of our region’s arid shrub-steppe environment. It’s not a desert, Hagen says.

Rather, “steppe” is a word that refers to vast treeless grasslands. In areas such as the Yakima Valley, where the dominant vegetation is shrubs, the term “shrub-steppe” applies.

Plants in Cowiche Canyon include lupine, purple sage, tall buckwheat and the Western White Clematis. On our visit, we spied several small birds and two hawks.

“If you’re lucky, in the spring or fall, when it’s not too cold or too hot, you might see a Yellow-bellied Marmot,” Hagen says, referring to a native ground squirrel that weighs up to 11 pounds. “They live in the rocks and they have a kind of shrill whistle.”

Just for kicks, keep your eyes peeled for coyote. However, Hagen notes, “You’d probably have to be pretty lucky to see a coyote.”

Lizards and toads are more likely. But cautious parents should also be on the lookout for rattlesnakes.

“Usually, if they’re out there, they’re going to be right out on the trail in the sun,” Hagen says. “They hear you coming and slither away. They’re shy and they want to get away from you.”

What to do if you see one?

“Stop,” Hagen says, “and stomp your feet. They respond to vibration.”

Overall, the trail is safe for little explorers, Hagen advises. Just use common sense: It’s OK for kids to pick a sprig or two from the plants, but avoid plucking leaves by the handful.

It’s also OK to let kids climb a bit on the rocks, or toss a few stones in the creek. “Kids like to climb on rocks,” Hagen says.

The hiker’s rule of thumb is to leave things as they were. Pack out your trash and try not to disturb the plants or wildlife.

“It is a nature preserve,” Hagen says. “We have this tension between preserving (the land) and wanting it to be used.

“We want kids to have a hands-on experience. They don’t have to walk down the middle of the trail with their hands in their pockets. We want them to enjoy themselves.”

When they grow up, Hagen hopes, our children will spread the Conservancy’s message to their own children.

GETTING THERE
From Yakima, drive west on Summitview Avenue to Wiekel Road, about 5 miles west of 72nd Avenue. Turn right onto Wiekel Road, then follow the signs to the parking lot.

LEARN MORE
www.cowichecanyon.org

Greenway launches new summer program

The Yakima Greenway Foundation is kicking off a new summer program for kids this month. Kiddin’ Around promotes outdoor activities and allows kids to earn points that will count towards prizes at the end of summer.

Participants earn points by attending Kiddin’ Around events (schedule below), or by walking, riding bikes or participating in a summer-long photo scavenger hunt on the Greenway.

All activities are free (except Junior Gap2Gap) and most are offered as drop-in events that do not require preregistration.

To sign up for the program and start earning points, download a registration form at yakimagreenway.org, or visit the office at Sarg Hubbard Park; families who participated in Family Field Day on May 2 are already registered. Call 453-8280 for more information.

Here’s the schedule:

May 16: Snappin’ Around, 6-8 p.m. Learn how to use a digital camera; instructed walk on the Greenway. Pre-registration required; some cameras available or bring your own.

May 18: Hikin’ Around, 9 a.m. Guided hike in Cowiche Canyon. Bring hiking shoes and lots of water. Meet at Wiekel Road parking lot; cowichecanyon.org.

May 28: Birdin’ Around, 9 a.m. Bird watching walk with the Audubon Society. Learn to identify birds by sight or sound. Wear good shoes; no flip-flops. Greenway or Cowiche Canyon; call for location.

May 30: Junior Gap2Gap, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Annual relay race at Sarg Hubbard Park. Categories for ages 6 and up. Preregistration and fee required. Register at yakimagreenway.org.

June 5: Junior Marathon. Students run first 25 miles at school, then finish up last 1.2 mile run at Sarg Hubbard Park. More information at hcrunners.org.

June 7: YCTA Tennis Free-4-All, 1-4 p.m. Learn to play tennis or hone your skills with the Yakima Community Tennis Association. Kissel Park.

June 11: Birdin’ Around, 9 a.m. Bird watching walk with the Audubon Society. Learn to identify birds by sight or sound. Wear good shoes; no flip-flops. Greenway or Cowiche Canyon; call for location.

June 14: Golfin’ Around, 2-5 p.m. Learn correct stance and how to swing from local pros; equipment provided. Fisher Park Golf Course.

June 20: Hikin’ Around, 9 a.m. Guided hike in Cowiche Canyon. Bring hiking shoes and lots of water. Meet at Wiekel Road parking lot; cowichecanyon.org.

June 25: Birdin’ Around, 9 a.m. Bird watching walk with the Audubon Society. Learn to identify birds by sight or sound. Wear good shoes; no flip-flops. Greenway or Cowiche Canyon; call for location.

July 9: Hikin’ Around, 9 a.m. Guided hike in Cowiche Canyon. Bring hiking shoes and lots of water. Meet at Wiekel Road parking lot; cowichecanyon.org.

July 11: Splashin’ Around, 1-4 p.m. Water activities at Franklin Pool.

July 18: Obstacle Course, 9 a.m. to noon at Sarg Hubbard Park.

July 23: Hikin’ Around, 9 a.m. Guided hike in Cowiche Canyon. Bring hiking shoes and lots of water. Meet at Wiekel Road parking lot; cowichecanyon.org.

July 31: Dancin’ Around, 5-8 p.m. DJ plays favorites for a family dance party at Martin Luther King Park.

Aug. 6: Hikin’ Around, 9 a.m. Guided hike in Cowiche Canyon. Bring hiking shoes and lots of water. Meet at Wiekel Road parking lot; cowichecanyon.org.

Aug. 7: Martial Arts Night, 7:30 p.m. Learn self-defense moves and basic techniques, followed by free outdoor screening of “Kung Fu Panda.” Sarg Hubbard Park.

Aug. 20: Hikin’ Around, 9 a.m. Guided hike in Cowiche Canyon. Bring hiking shoes and lots of water. Meet at Wiekel Road parking lot; cowichecanyon.org.

Aug. 29: Hoppin’ Around, 1-4 p.m. Yakima’s longest hopscotch court will test your skills at Sarg Hubbard Park.

Sept. 12: Kickin’ Around, 12-3 p.m. Introduction to soccer clinic. Ages 6-14. Chesterley Park.

Teckin’ and Trekkin: Self-guided activity. Borrow a GPS unit from the Greenway office to record your mileage walking or biking the pathways.

Snappin’ Around II: Self-guided activity. Take pictures of hidden things on the Greenway to earn points. Limited number of cameras available to borrow.

Bird watching can be a fun family adventure

With foliage off the trees, winter is a great time to go birding at the Yakima Area Arboretum. This free activity can be a fun outdoor adventure for the entire family.

The Arboretum is a non-profit outdoor museum featuring more than 2,000 different kinds of trees and plants on 46 acres of display gardens and natural areas. It’s located at 1401 Arboretum Drive in Yakima. Access the drive from Nob Hill Boulevard, across from Kmart.

Among the Arboretum’s trees, birders might spot up to two dozen different birds including robins, geese and bald eagles.

If you plan a visit, be sure to bring binoculars, a bird identification book (borrow one from the library), a notebook, pencil and the following checklist. Expect your birding adventure to take at least 60 minutes.

California Quail
Common Loon
Horned Grebes
Mourning Dove
Western Screech-Owl
Black-billed Magpie
Black-capped Chickadee
American Robin
Spotted Towhee
Fox Sparrow
Song Sparrow
White-crowned Sparrow
Golden-crowned Sparrow
Dark-eyed Junco
Red-winged Blackbird
House Finch
House Sparrow
Cooper’s Hawk
Bald Eagle
Canada Geese
NOTE: Tell the staff if you find any birds not on the list so they can pass the information onto the Yakima Valley Audubon Society, which tracks of these types of things.

All of these birds have been spotted at the Arboretum this winter, and many on the same day. Most can easily be found in the Sparrow Patch located in the compost area in the northeast part of the Arboretum. Birds can be found even with snow on the ground.

HERE’S THE HOW-TO:
1) After parking your car, visit the Jewett Interpretive Center for a self-guided tour map. You might find this helpful.

2) Head towards the Arboretum’s Natural Area and the Yakima Greenway. Look for Canada Geese around the pond. Look also in the trees for the daytime roosting of owls and other birds.

3) Walk on the Greenway trail heading north just until you can spot the river. Look high up in the trees, especially across the river for Bald Eagles. Six were spotted on one day the week before Christmas.

4) Trek a little farther north along the Greenway and look towards Buchanan Lake. Can you find any Red-winged Blackbirds, Canada Geese, Common Loons or Horned Grebes? How about floating platforms with trees and fisherman? The platforms are actually there to encourage nesting habitat for water fowl, not just for giggles.

5) Finally, turn back and head towards the Arboretum’s Natural Area. Take the first path you come to. As you walk along the path look for the Arboretum’s Compost Area on your right. Walking quietly into the compost area you will be amazed at the bird activity. From a distance find the large plastic garbage can (full of bird seed). This is the headquarters for the Arboretum’s Sparrow Patch and is maintained by the volunteers with the Yakima Valley Audubon Society. For the greatest success rate be sure to stand far enough away so you don’t scare the birds. Use the binoculars for identification. Look high in the trees for other predator birds who are also maintaining vigil on the Sparrow Patch such as the Cooper’s Hawk. After your visit feel free to spread more seed for the birds. The birds and the next birders will be thankful you did.

6) After visiting the Sparrow Patch be sure to walk through the Natural Area looking for other birds and critters. Pay special attention to any large tree cavities you see high up in the trees. A Western Screech Owl has made his home in one. Kids might enjoy trying to spot the manmade bird houses too.

7) Notice how the Natural Area looks like a wetland again. The recent snow melt and rise in water levels has brought plenty of water into the Natural Area. For years the Arboretum’s Natural Area was an active wetland with all sorts of wetland critters and ponds. Then, after the gravel pit to the north was turned into Buchanan Lake the Army Corps of Engineers rerouted the drainage for the lake from the Arboretum’s natural area into the Yakima River, bypassing the Arboretum’s wetlands altogether. Now, only during flood type conditions do we see much water in the natural area.

Finally, if there is snow on the ground, look for animal tracks. Kids will love trying to identify the prints that they see, i.e. rabbits, bird, mice, dog and Sasquatch. LOL

9) Enjoy your visit and oh… check out the trees while you visit the Arboretum, too!

– Reprinted with permission from the Yakima Area Arboretum’s January 2009 newsletter.

Celebrate season at White Pass Winter Carnival

Enjoy the last few weeks of winter with ice sculptures, tubing and a huge snow castle at the 23rd annual White Pass Winter Carnival, Feb. 28-March 1.

Tubing is free at the impressive, interactive snow castle near the lodge. The line can be long, however, so it’s best to arrive early.

The event also features a weekend full of kids’ ski races and classes, live music, low-key carnival games and fireworks.

Local band Blind Lemon Pie is scheduled to start rockin’ at 4 p.m. Saturday. At 6 p.m., dinner is available for purchase; choose prime rib or spaghetti. The Torchlight Parade begins about 7 p.m., followed by fireworks.
Music and activities continue Sunday. For a complete schedule, visit skiwhitepass.com.

Indoor Play Places

When cooler weather blows into town, we start to spend less time outdoors. At my house, this means the kids are bouncing — quite literally — off the walls. Don’t install padding. Instead, try one of these indoor places to play.

NOTE: Be sure to call ahead to verify hours and prices. We try to stay current, but gosh it’s hard…

BURGER KING, four locations in Yakima: 5905 Summitview Ave.; 2611 W. Nob Hill Blvd.; 2113 S. First St.; and 1605 E. Yakima Ave. (across from Wal-Mart).
Yup, they all have indoor playgrounds. Hail to the King!
Cost: Varies with appetite.

CHILDREN’S ACTIVITY MUSEUM, 118 E. Fourth Ave., Ellensburg; 509-925-6789. Hands-on fun includes themed play areas, the vortex machine and a reading nook. Preschool program, party rentals and field trips available. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays; noon to 7 p.m. Thursdays. Cost: $4.25 per person; family pass is $14.50.

CHILDREN’S UNDERGROUND inside the Yakima Valley Museum, 2105 Tieton Drive, Yakima. 248-0747.
Dress-up clothes, puppets, a climb-on pony cart and a hands-on general store. Also, tour the museum’s collections, covering Valley history from mammoths to modern times.
Underground hours: 1-5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.
Cost: $5 adults, $3 students and seniors, or $12 family.

THE ICE RINK, 1700 E. Beech St., Yakima. 469-0597 during public sessions, or 949-6669.
Chill out inside the Valley’s only ice skating rink, managed by volunteer members of the Yakima Amateur Hockey Association. Remember to dress warmly — it’s freezing in there! (Skating and hockey lessons available, youth hockey league)
Public sessions: 7-9 p.m. Friday, 5-8 p.m. Saturday during winter season.
Cost: $5 admission; $1 skate rental, sizes toddler and up. Concessions available.

INDOOR PRESCHOOL PLAYTIME, Selah Civic Center, 216 S. First St. 698-7300.
Bring trikes, ride-on toys, balls to open gym.
Hours: 10 a.m. to noon Wednesdays in winter. Call ahead to verify.
Cost: Free.

KIDS CASTLE, inside Gymnastics Plus, 2121 W. Lincoln Ave., Yakima. 453-8126.
For kids, there’s a colorful jungle gym of tubes, ball pits and slides. For adults, there’s lots of tables, a snack bar and a stack of magazines (though, sadly, not ours).
On weekends, there’s also an open gym with trampolines, a foam pit and inflatable bounce houses. Clean, dry socks are required and parents must remain on the premises.
Hours: 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 12-6 p.m. Sunday.
Cost: Weekdays — $2.50/unlimited for toddlers 2 and younger, $5.25/hour or $8/unlimited for children 3 and older. Two children play for the price of one on Wednesdays. Weekends — $3/hour or $4.25/unlimited for toddlers 2 and younger, $6.50/hour or $9/unlimited for children 3 and older. Save a few dollars with the purchase of a 10-visit coupon book.

KIDS’ GYM AT THE YMCA, 5 N. Naches Ave., Yakima. 248-1202.
Bouncing off the walls (or, at least, tumbling on the floor) is more fun in this room with mats and Tiny Tykes toys for young children.
Cost: $1 per child, or free with YMCA membership ($18/year for youth up to 13).

LIONS POOL, 509 West Pine St., Yakima. 575-6046.
Public indoor swimming pool, offers year-round swim lessons and special swims for toddlers.
Cost: $1.75 youth, $3.25 adults, or $8.75 for a family of up to two adults and four children.

McDONALD’S PLAYPLACE, 40th and River Road, Yakima. 576-8000.
Climbing tubes and slide, air hockey.
Cost: Probably a Happy Meal.

MEADOWBROOK FAMILY FUN CENTER, 7200 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima. 966-3836.
Arcade and Pizza Cafe. (In the summer, there’s also outdoor batting cages, miniature golf, bumper boats and go-carts.)
Winter arcade hours: 1-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 1-11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. The Pizza Cafe closes one hour earlier.
Cost: Arcade tokens are 25 cents.

SELAH GYM KIDS, 709 North Park Center, Selah. 698-5437.
Fun Friday. 6-9 p.m. most Fridays. Drop off kids ages 3-10 for supervised recreation and pizza. Parents can go out alone!
Cost: $17 first child, $15 siblings. Reservations not necessary.

SKATELAND FUN CENTER, 2506 Old Town Road, Union Gap. 575-6442.
Public sessions: 7-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Cost: $6.75. Also, 1:30-4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Cost: $5.75.
Bargain Night ($5.50) is 6:30-9 p.m. Wednesday. Valley Church Night is held from 6:30-9 p.m. the third Monday of each month. Cost: $5.50.
Admission fees include regular skate rental; In-line skates are $1.50 extra. Tiny Tots, or children’s skate sizes 6-13, are always $4.75. Cash only.

THREE RIVERS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM in the Broadmoor Square Mall, 5274 Outlet Drive, Pasco. 509-543-7866.
In the mood for a day trip? Hit the highway and head 85 miles southeast of Yakima to explore this 3,000-square-foot kid zone in the Tri-Cities. Kids can climb aboard the U.S.S. Friend-Ship, step inside a kaleidoscope, or serve up some fun in the kid-size kitchen.
Winter hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Friday, and 12-5 p.m. Saturday.
Cost: $3 per person, ages 12 months and older.

VALLEY MALL, 2529 Main St., Union Gap. 453-8233.
A small play area upstairs near the food court. (Hey, it’s free.) Recommended for children under age 3.
Hours: 10 a.m.-9p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.

YAKIMA FAMILY YMCA, 5 N. Naches Ave., Yakima. 248-1202.
Family swim: 7:30-8:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Open swim: 8-9:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, 3-5:30 p.m. Saturday, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Sunday.
Cost: Free for YMCA members. For nonmembers, admission is $5 for youth, $10 for adults or $15 per family.

Ahoy! Check out these fine pirate reads

We asked our mateys at the Yakima Valley Regional Library to recommend some hearty reads for young pirates. Dig into these treasures:

Story Books
(recommended for adults reading to preschoolers through grade 2)

• “Edward and the Pirates,” by David McPhail. Edward is a studious-looking little boy who reads everything he can get his hands on and becomes so involved that whatever he reads seems to be real. He finds a book about pirates at the library and that night, pirates invade his bedroom.
• “How I Became a Pirate,” by Melinda Long. Jeremy Jacob is building a sand castle when a pirate ship lands nearby. While his parents are preoccupied, Jeremy sails the seas to help the pirates bury their treasure chest.
• “Tough Boris,” by Mem Fox. Although he is a very tough pirate, Boris von der Borch cries when his parrot dies.
• “Captain Abdul’s Little Treasure,” by Colin McNaugton. Captain Abdul’s disgruntled wife leaves a treasure chest on board his ship. Shocked to find Abdul’s little son hidden inside, the crew warms up to baby-sitting.
• “Captain Flinn and the Pirate Dinosaurs,” by Giles Andreae. When a young boy’s markers run dry while drawing a dinosaur, he heads to the supply closet and discovers a sobbing pirate who explains that his ship has been stolen.

Children’s Chapter Books
(recommended for grades 3-6)

• “The 13th Floor: A Ghost Story,” by Sid Fleischman. Buddy Stebbins, a 12-year-old orphan in the care of his older sister, is faced with selling the family home to pay off their parents’ debts. Buddy calls on an ancestor, rumored to be a pirate, for assistance and launches the siblings on a time-travel adventure.
• “Peter and the Starcatchers,” by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson. A prequel to “Peter Pan” (the Disney film as well as J.M. Barrie’s original play and novel), this book is full of high-seas hijinks and explains how Peter Pan learned to fly.
• “The Not-So-Jolly-Roger,” by Jon Scieszka. Joe, Fred and Sam — the “Time Warp Trio” — find themselves on a desert island, where they are captured by Blackbeard and taken aboard his ship. Something always goes wrong in the trio’s attempts to save their own hides.

Children’s Nonfiction
(fact books for grades 4-6)

• “100 Things You Should Know About Pirates,” by Andrew Langley
• “Fact or Fiction: Pirates,” by Stewart Ross
• “Eyewitness Books: Pirate,” by Richard Platt

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