Parks & Recreation previews holiday and winter programs, urges sign-ups for 'Fun Buzz' newsletter

Parks & Recreation staff updated the commission on seasonal programming and outreach channels, urging members to sign up for the department’s 'Fun Buzz' email list that is sent on the 15th of every month and noting the mayor’s monthly email on the first of the month.

Speaker 4 reviewed several upcoming events: a free family-oriented tree-lighting (referred to in the meeting as the "Glow" event) on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., a mayor-led stroll called the 'mayor’s mingle and magical lights tour,' Santa’s mailbox program (with senior volunteers helping to write letters), and seasonal classes such as community yoga and fitness demonstrations. Staff also described one-off offerings (wine-and-design, cookie-decorating with a local baker) and ongoing partnerships with the library for tech classes and with Buckeye Hospice for card-game lessons.

Staff said the senior center currently has roughly 800 registered members and that staff plan a January–February newsletter and a new interest survey to tailor programming. The $5 annual membership fee remains in place and is used to track participants, keep waivers on file and mail the newsletter to members.

Parks & Recreation asked commissioners to help spread the word, sign up for email lists and volunteer for events and mentoring roles. The department plans to hire a seasonal recreation aide to support front-office duties and program logistics.

The briefing contained no formal council votes; it was an informational update and a call for volunteers to help with outreach and program delivery.