By Doug Comer
The first leg of our Enrichment Programs ended this week as Outdoor Adventures wrapped up for the fall season. Close to 1,900 students attended the field day at the Harrison County Recreation Complex to interact in activities that fit the student’s ages.
“Our program is comprised of four different age levels in order to maximize the learning potential for students of all ages,” remarked Recreation Coordinator Jeff Wetzel. “For our younger kids, we offer fun activities with the purpose of informing the children about the surrounds and nature’s environment. While, for the older kids, we teach the kids some basic survival tactics like compass navigation and GPS location.”
Added this year to the program is the study of Trees and Birds. Some of our staff researched and found loads of information concerning the wildlife and the forests. And the language of the class fits kids for all age groups as Wetzel explains.
“I give credit to the teachers when students come in with a basic understanding of the programs we offer. Some teachers prep the children before the class with some of the topics we discuss and it makes the class easier to teach. The kids know the subject, however, we go a little farther in the curriculum to ensure that the kids have a great time as well as get educated, said Wetzel.”
The Recreation Complex will host its 25th Annual Children’s Halloween Party on Thursday the 30th. The event is an alternative way to celebrate the evening with games, costume contests and goody bags for the first 150 kids that visit. The event has been a huge success to not only the Parks and Recreation but to Harrison County as well.
“We host this event to ensure that the children of Harrison County have a safe and friendly Halloween,” related Recreation Specialist Jack Cann. “The event will be the day before Halloween, and because the event is indoors, the weather will not hamper or cancel the event.”
The event starts at 6:00 and conclude at 7:30 pm. The event is FREE of charge and open to children from three to 12 years old. For further information, contact the HCPRC.
Last Thursday, every student in the county between the classes of Kindergarten through 5th grade received a flyer notifying the signups for Recreation Basketball.
Registration is November 12th and 13th from 4:30 to 6:00 pm for all age groups at the Recreation Complex. Parents or guardians must be present to sign their child up. There will not be tryouts or gym time on that day, only registration.
“We had a lot of kids sign up for basketball last year and I am assuming that we will increase in attendance,” remarked Wetzel. “The program is strictly for learning the basics of basketball in a less competitive setting. It’s all about improving as an athlete and having a great experience.”
If anyone is interested in having their children participate in the league or if parents wish to coach, please contact the Park’s office.