Hey Kids! is a weekly feature looking at what’s coming up for families and kids of all ages.
Remember the time when our fathers were strong and running? Before their talk of fiber optics, Turtle Wax and wars? Dad was as able-bodied as his station wagon lugging camping gear and cheeseburgers for six.
Then one summer his littlest turtle shell of armor — the patella — gave way. It broke, probably in slow motion like sediment or calcification. But to me the wrecking appeared swift, the way a startled self-reflection in the window betrays you.
His knee was eventually replaced with seated conversations about recovering knees and cable TV. And more. A loosing of lips to losing of choice to losing something more dear, like your mother or brother or even you.
What happened to the knee that once bounced us like gypsy riders on a favorite horse?
If I take a little more time, I realize the telephone is connected to the knee bone. The knee bone is connected to the jaw bone connected to the funny bone connected to the backbone. Somehow this is connected to the Mission. I just don’t know if it’s in the ligaments or empty spaces between.
To all dads, new and improved, standing or sitting tall — happy father’s day.
Friday, June 18
MISSION MURALKINS PUPPET SHOW & STUDENT ART SHOW
It’s happening now, from 5:30-9 p.m.! Puppet shows (“Bear’s Sound Advice”) at 6 p.m. & 8 p.m. Student animation, cartoons, wine, cheese, cookies and milk. Sirron Norris Studio Gallery, corner of Valencia and 25th Street. Free.
Saturday, June 19
MISSION COMMUNITY BLOCK PARTY
Or rather an unblocking party. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., make merry with neighbors, performers, artists, organizations, brothers and sisters. Contribute to a community mural. All food profits benefit the start up costs of Mission Community Market. Where: 22nd Street and Mission. Free.
SIPPY CUPS CONCERT & RAFFLE
Sippy Cups don’t suck, they rock. And so do the Friends of Dolores Park Playground. (Check out this super toboggan planned as part of their renovation.) Come to Dolores Park Playground from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Free; donations welcome.
ACCIDENTAL EDUTAINMENT FOR KIDS & THEIR ADULTS
Screening of classic cartoons and live-action films featuring Betty Boop, Woody Woodpecker, Gumby, rain, pencil, toy trains, snow monkeys and more. Wholesome treats, cookies and pencils. Oddball Films, 275 Capp St. (near 18th). Family matinee at 3 p.m. $10; limited seating, RSVP only. Contact info@oddballfilm.com or 415-558-8117.
BIRTHFEST
Here’s something not just for families but those thinking about growing one. Event includes a film festival and “The Dynamite Show,” an evening spectacle described as “Fame meets the Muppets.” It’s happening from noon onward at Brava Theater on 24th and York. Tickets are $15-$40 and benefit the Foundation for the Advancement of Midwifery.
Sunday, June 20
SUNDAY STREETS
Because a healthy circulatory system is good for the heart and soul. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. As always, free.
WHAT’S UP WITH THE PLACENTA?
I ate mine. Learn more at a free class with Laura Perez and Spring Childers. It’s 4-5 p.m. at Natural Resources on Valencia (near 25th).
