Community programs on tap in March, April

Sandpoint Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces has a number of community programs on tap during March and April.

Among them:

Contra dance

Sandpoint Parks Recreation and Open Spaces has again partnered with Emily Faulkner for the popular contra dance series.

The monthly event is a chance to dance your heart out to live music and meet your neighbors. Previous dancing experience is not necessary, all ages are welcome, and you don't have to bring a partner.

Beginners are encouraged to arrive on time for introductory dancing at 7 p.m. Wear comfortable breathable clothing and bring non-marking shoes to change into for dancing. Please no outdoor shoes on the dance floor. 

A $5 donation is suggested for each dance.

The next dance will be held at Sandpoint Community Hall, 204 S. First Ave. from 7-10 p.m. Friday, March 14.

Open gym basketball

Open gym basketball is open for adults and youth with separate time sessions for both. The program runs Nov. 12 through April 27 at Sandpoint High School, 410 S. Division. There will be no open gym March 16 or March 23. Adults play 4:30-6 p.m. and pay a $3/player fee at the door. Youth (grades 3-12) play 3-4:30 p.m. for free.

Youth track and field

Sandpoint Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces in association with the Sandpoint Track Team invites children K-6 grade to participate in the city's Youth Track and Field Program. 

Sandpoint track athletes and LPOSD volunteer coach will teach the events and conduct the competitions. Each division will have limited participation based on the availability of coaches and volunteers. 

Weekly practice will be held at the SHS Track between 6-7 p.m. Participants choose either Mondays or Wednesdays for practice. The fee is $45 for the entire 10-week program, March 26-May 24. Scholarships are available upon request.

The program culminates in a free community track meet on May 24. Those interested are asked to register by March 17. Children unable to attend the entire track and field program, or those that only wish to attend the track meet May 24, may register for that event separately online, or at registration offered on site on the day of the meet.

Lou Domanski Chess Festival

Everyone, from young to old, are invited to join fellow chess enthusiasts for this one-day tournament. The tournament uses the Swiss system and is coordinated by James Stripes. Bring a lunch and be ready to play all day. 

Division and fees: elementary (entering grades 1-6) $5; middle/high school entering grades 7-12, $7; and open, $10. 

The festival takes place at Community Hall, 204 N. First Ave., from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday April 5. Register by March 31. Scholarships available for children. 

Adaptive fitness class for teens

The Unique Center for Athletes of all Needs and Sandpoint Parks and Recreation partner to offer free fitness classes tailored to kids with disabilities between 11 to 20 years old. 

The class is offered from 2:45-3:45 p.m. Wednesdays, November through May at the UCAN gym, 1007 W. Superior in Sandpoint. 

This fitness class aims to provide a safe, supportive, and enjoyable environment. We believe that fitness is for everyone, and the dedicated instructors at the UCAN gym are excited to guide participants through a range of activities that cater to their individual needs and interests. 

Register online at ucansandpoint.org/book-online.

Adaptive fitness class for adults

The Unique Center for Athletes of all Needs and Sandpoint Parks and Recreation are excited to announce an empowering opportunity for adults with disabilities to embark on a fitness journey that celebrates diversity, inclusion, and well-being. 

The program offers a free fitness class specifically tailored to the needs and abilities of individuals with disabilities. 

Class is offered from 1-2 p.m. Thursdays, November — May at the UCAN gym, 1007 W. Superior in Sandpoint. 

The goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where participants can enhance their physical fitness, boost their self-confidence, and foster a sense of community. Register online at ucansandpoint.org/book-online.

Register for any P&R program at secure.rec1.com/ID/city-of-sandpoint/catalog, visit Sandpoint City Hall, 1123 Lake St., or call, 208-263-3613.