In these tougher economic times we all have to tighten our belts, evaluate finances even closer, change habits and perhaps make lifestyle adjustments. But, one thing that can lighten the burden, can be done affordably and in many cases free is participating in local recreation programs or visiting our local parks. This sensitivity to the current economic situation has challenged us to maintain affordability, and as such we have kept the vast majority of our user fees for the 2009-2010 fiscal year at the 2008 prices. Yes folks, a family of three to six can still enjoy unlimited use of the pools at Veterans Memorial Park for the entire season for just $145. Yes folks, that same family, along with their neighbors can still attend any one, or all, of our eight outdoors concerts at Evergreen Walk free of charge and enjoy some of the areas greatest musical talents. Yes folks, any of our families can count on safe and reliable before and after school child care with our 4th R program for the 2009-2010 academic year at the same rates. And yes folks, a member of this family can still reserve a room at the community center any weekday evening without a rental fee. Add to that drop-in use of the numerous trails at Nevers Park, the Michael Donnelly Preserve and the Wildlife Sanctuary, or watching any number of sporting events at the Little League complex, Nevers Park, or Rye Street Park on which not a penny need be spent and you can remain active without breaking the bank. Better yet, ride your bike to the park, enjoy a game, or perhaps a swim meet and save on gasoline and get fit at the same time!

For those that may truly need a little extra help, Financial Assistance is available. The South Windsor Recreation Department’s programs, classes, and special events are available to all residents regardless of economic status. The Human Services Department determines all fee assistance for qualified residents, and refers them to the Recreation Department to officially register. A confidential application is available at the Human Services Department, located in the Community Center. Fee assistance is made possible through the Recreation Scholarship Fund. We strive to find a way to not turn anyone away due to financial hardship.

To add even more frugality to your family frolic we invite you to join us as we celebrate our 40th Anniversary as a full time town department (September, 1969)! We encourage you to hold Saturday, August 15th aside for some terrific FREE family fun (rain Date Sunday, the 16th). The event begins at 4pm featuring: a 10th birthday party for our very own mascot Ben E.Fits complete with cake and dozens of guest visitor mascots like the Boston Red Sox’s “Wally, the Green Monster” and the New Britain “RockCat” ; children’s activities ; food vendors ; an early evening two-hour outdoor concert performed by the Tirebiter Band followed by a grand finale fireworks display!

Save even more time, money and gas by taking advantage of online registration for Fall preschool classes for the very first time! Beginning August 26th, at 8:00am, enroll your child from the comforts of home - no lines, no waiting, no wee-hours of the morning hassels.

On a final note, we’d like to welcome Keri Apt and Marisol Jones to the Recreation Department office team as Child Development Coordinator and Administrative Secretary respectively. Keri has a BA degree in Sports & Recreation Management from New England College where she excelled as a member of the varsity Field Hockey Team for all four years. She comes to us with considerable experience with youth having served as a summer camp counselor as well as a youth basketball coach and referee in Maine and New Hampshire, and was the After School Administrator for Educational Resources for Children in Enfield, CT. But, you may know her best as our terrific 4th R site supervisor at Pleasant Valley School last year. She has quickly, and “aptly” taken over responsibility for the 4th R Before & After School program and our popular preschool classes.

Marisol, who transferred from the Town Manager’s Office at the Town Hall, replaced Becky Kaye, who left us to take a promotion to full-time “Mom” after delivering Rachel Lily on October 20th. Congratulations to Keri, Marisol and Becky!

Ray Favreau, Your Director of Recreation