We’re in the midst of creating the summer recreation brochure. You can expect the regular offerings of soccer, swim lessons, tee ball, etc. in addition to some tweaks in offerings, such as slightly different start times for swim lessons (due to adding a buffer time of five minutes between each lesson, so that parents can communicate with their child’s instructor, etc.) and adding an hour of public swim time to both Saturdays and Sundays.

We’re also hoping to include some joint programming with the library, that being Rolling Rec combined with Story Time in the Park. This will potentially be an opportunity for younger kids to get some fun interaction with library staff during Rolling Rec activities. The brochures will be completed in March with online registration commencing April 1. 

Skiing

Cross country conditions at the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center were excellent when my family and I were out using the new ski equipment last Saturday.

I encourage you to check it out. Rental fees, even for the new equipment, are only $6 per person, and there are many groomed trails to enjoy throughout the Nature Center. If cross country skiing isn’t your ticket, you can try out snowshoes. Please note: If you’re walking or snowshoeing at JCHNC, please be considerate of those who use (and groom) cross country ski trails by staying off the groomed ski trails. Thank you.   

YMCA at Austin Community Recreation Center

The YMCA at Austin Community Recreation Center opens to the public, starting at 5 a.m. on Monday. This long-awaited and highly anticipated opening is sure to be popular with users of the old Y in addition to the hundreds of new users who are certain to flock to the Rec Center.

It is important to note that there are areas which will be free to the community, including the Community Play Area (open to ages 2 through 10) and the Daydreaming Youth Center (Youth Room – open to grades 2 through 12). There will be some supervised free access to a gymnasium for grades 2 through 12 as well. Other areas of the facility will be accessible via a day pass, membership, or program/activity fee at reasonable rates.

For those who made use of the wellness areas at the old Y, you will be astonished by the new facility and what it has to offer those who walk, participate in fitness classes, or use weights, resistance machines, and cardio equipment. There is a phenomenal selection of equipment and space galore! It is a beautiful, state-of-the-art facility. Their staff and numerous volunteers have put countless hours into planning and preparation, and it shows. Stop in soon; I think you’ll find that it’ll be worth your visit.

Congratulations, Austin, on such a wonderful achievement and landmark facility which is certain to be enjoyed by many, many locals and visitors alike for years to come!