Trouble viewing this email? Read it on the Web <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/eNewsletter/0901.htm> here. <http://www.charmeck.org/NR/rdonlyres/elf35du6ltrhh57sqvviwoxjk234362qlzdmyt 6fq43dineh3digdngmhuyqy2kbqn6ygorkw6tlofgphodfzxsymle/GreenArrow.gif> <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Parks/Home.htm> Find a Facility <http://www.charmeck.org/NR/rdonlyres/elf35du6ltrhh57sqvviwoxjk234362qlzdmyt 6fq43dineh3digdngmhuyqy2kbqn6ygorkw6tlofgphodfzxsymle/GreenArrow.gif> <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Facilities/Recreation+Cent ers/Home.htm> Find a Rec Center <http://www.charmeck.org/NR/rdonlyres/elf35du6ltrhh57sqvviwoxjk234362qlzdmyt 6fq43dineh3digdngmhuyqy2kbqn6ygorkw6tlofgphodfzxsymle/GreenArrow.gif> <http://parkrez.co.mecklenburg.nc.us/Activities/Activities.asp?SCheck=448869 126&SDT=39421.6840691319> Sign Up for a Program PARK AND REC E-NEWSLETTER, JANUARY 2009 Happy New Year from Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation! This monthly e-newsletter describes many programs and activities we offer for your fun and good health. We also invite you to visit our website at <http://www.parkandrec.com/> www.parkandrec.com to see many more facilities and programs. _____ KEEP YOUR RESOLUTIONS AND GET IN SHAPE FOR THE NEW YEAR AT PARK AND RECREATION FITNESS CENTERS Mecklenburg Park and Recreation runs eight fitness centers. Many have fitness instructors available for consultation. Come visit and get in shape! Special offers now available. Contact the fitness center nearest you for January promotion details. Centers are in: * <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Aquatics/Aquatic+Center+In formation.htm> Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center * <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Facilities/Fitness+Centers /Bette+Rae+Fitness.htm> Bette Rae Thomas Recreation Center * <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Facilities/Fitness+Centers /First+Ward+Fitness+Center.htm> First Ward Recreation Center * <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Facilities/Fitness+Centers /Mallard+Creek+Fitness+Center.htm> Mallard Creek Recreation Center * <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Aquatics/Rays+Splash+Plane t/Fitness.htm> RAY's Splash Planet * <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Facilities/Fitness+Centers /Southview+Fitness.htm> Southview Recreation Center * <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Facilities/Fitness+Centers /Tuckaseegee+Fitness+Center.htm> Tuckaseegee Recreation Center * <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Facilities/Fitness+Centers /WestCharlotte.htm> West Charlotte Fitness Center Check the links to each center for fees, which vary depending on location. <http://www.charmeck.org/NR/rdonlyres/eyv3ao7fskzp27ilji3mi625hm4pjkzvvawhmk 3ynavspvwlqkdzeo2gkery3yaj55e46dmjnwffgvh7isnxffexhfb/BRTWomenonTreadmills.j pg> Our fitness centers offer work-out machines and/or free weights to help you achieve a healthy new year. _____ NEW DRAIN COVERS REQUIRED BY FEDERAL LAW HAVE BEEN INSTALLED AT PARK AND REC POOLS Park and Recreation installed special drain covers in December required by a new federal law at its indoor pools and aquatic venues. Outdoor pools will be modified before they open for the summer season. The new, specially-made and certified drain covers cost a total of $53,000. The special covers and associated fixtures are mandated at public pools by the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act. The law is named after a child who died in 2002 after suction from a drain trapped her under water. She was the granddaughter of former US Secretary of State James Baker III. The Baker family pushed this law in Congress. _____ NEW SIGN PACKAGE ON MALLARD/CLARK'S GREENWAY WILL SET STANDARD FOR NEW SIGNS ON WHOLE GREENWAY SYSTEM <http://www.charmeck.org/NR/rdonlyres/e7eidy4z6aj35f5xixjhwk2lh5ugvjdwccui5n 2gmbjljrnusbjbpbzky4rp5cfrco5lbvi2pouwpsxc5omrskcc2pc/greenwaysign.jpg> New signs like these will eventually be installed on all Mecklenburg County Greenways. Park and Recreation begins installing new signs Jan. 5 on <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Greenways/Mallard+and+Clar ks+Creek.htm> Mallard Creek/Clark's Creek Greenway in the University area. This greenway runs more than seven miles and will be the first one to get the new signs. Many users asked for better signage to help them understand the system and find their way. Installation on Mallard/Clarks will take a few weeks. The new sign "package" includes markers every 1/4 mile, names on neighborhood entrances and exits, kiosks to display maps and notices, rules, regulations, cautions, etc. Designing the signs began two years ago with citizens who helped select colors, shapes, sizes, and placement standards. The new sign "package" includes markers every 1/4 mile, names on neighborhood entrances and exits, kiosks to display maps and notices, rules, regulations, cautions, etc. Designing the signs began two years ago with citizens who helped select colors, shapes, sizes, and placement standards.. _____ SAILING AND ROWING CENTER COMING THIS SPRING TO BLYTHE LANDING ON LAKE NORMAN Park and Recreation has entered into a partnership with North Carolina Community Sailing (NCCS) to build and operate a community sailing and rowing center on Lake Norman at <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Parks/Parks+By+District/No rth+District/Blythe.htm> Blythe Landing in Huntersville. The property will be upgraded in the next few months, and the center plans to open next spring. Small sailboats and rowing shells, and training in how to use them, will be available at the center for a fee. For more information or to make a contribution, visit <http://www.nccommunitysailing.com/> www.nccommunitysailing.com or contact Larry Vitez at (704) 366-0466. <http://www.charmeck.org/NR/rdonlyres/ezhti7mjegkjcj2jhpkmxxuxrnosbu2g3gzp72 oywtbl7v3rfc6j4spu4kwqq6xuqpytjglghzbbdret3oovm4tqclg/sailboatwithspinaker.j pg> The new sailing center center will offer Sunfish sailboats, Flying Scots, 420 racing dinghies, access dinghies for adaptive sailing, and rowing shells. _____ PHOTOGS INVITED TO CAPTURE BEAUTY OF PARK AND RECREATION IN 2008-09 "NATURE OF MECKLENBURG" CONTEST AND EXHIBITION If you like to take pictures, don't forget the Partners for Parks and Carolinas' Nature Photographers Association's 2008-2009 "The Nature of Mecklenburg" Photography Contest and "juried photography exhibition" to benefit Park and Recreation and Partners for Parks. Photographs may be taken by amateurs or professionals in any of our parks, nature preserves, playgrounds, or greenways. They must be taken by July15, 2009. Photos may be entered in categories of Plant Life, Landscapes/Scenic, People in Parks, and Wildlife for cash prizes and gift certificates. Park and Rec may use the photos to promote our activities. For complete details, check <http://www.cnpa-charlotte.org/> www.cnpa-charlotte.org or <http://www.partnersforparks.org/> www.partnersforparks.org. _____ <http://www.charmeck.org/NR/rdonlyres/ebjvpspamorjufpla6kgbxxf77k2ro7vd3s3js vk4yra33pwq2lpydb7tjuq46et5nfft24b2d5wur3c4lpl7cadfbc/Rugby.jpg> The Park and Rec-sponsored Rugby team will be called the Barbarians! PARK AND REC OFFERS ADULT RUGBY, A GREAT SPORT FOR COMPETITION AND CONDITIONING! Join one of the fastest growing sports in the country, Rugby! Park and Recreation has started its own adult recreation rugby team for ages 18-35. Team will compete in the USA Rugby division III league, playing teams from surrounding cities. The 2009 season runs Feb-Jul. Practices at Frazier Park on Mons & Weds, 7pm-9pm starting Jan. 5. Cost: $100 per player. For more information call 311 or contact Derichard McCoy via e-mail <mailto:Derichard.McCoy@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> or 704-353-1250. _____ PARK AND RECREATION OFFERS GREAT PROGRAMS FOR KIDS FOR OUT-OF-SCHOOL DAYS THIS WINTER Our uptown <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Aquatics/Aquatic+Center+In formation.htm> Aquatic Center invites kids to Out-of-School Cool Days for Youngsters, ages 8-13, when CMS schools are out, 8:30am-4:30pm, cost: $30 each day. Bring lunch and snack. Pre and post camp supervision available. Cool Days include: * Jan. 19 - Snow tubing at Hawks Nest in Banner Elk, NC, includes van trip. Barcode # 36638. * Jan. 23 - Snorkel in the morning, bowl in afternoon. Barcode # 36639. * Feb. 16 - Swim in the morning, rock climb in afternoon at Inner Peaks. Barcode # 36640 * Mar. 27 - NASCAR Speedpark. All day trip includes race cars, laser tag, and climbing wall. Barcode # 40981 Register at <http://www.parkandrec.com/> www.parkandrec.com, click on Eparks and use course barcode numbers or call 311.. Also Jan 19, 23 and Feb. 16 at other facilities: * NO SCHOOL DAY CAMP at Ray's Splash Planet. Get ready for pool time, arts & crafts, and sports. Cost: $20 a day. Details at 704.432-4RAY. * Kids ages 8-12 can attend programs at Tom Sykes Rec Center during the day for only $20. When school is out - FUN is in. Call 704. 432-4803 for details. _____ AFTER-SCHOOL ARTS AND CULTURE ACADEMY OFFERED AT ALBEMARLE ROAD RECREATION CENTER; SIGN-UP NOW Park and Recreation presents a multicultural arts and fitness after-school academy at <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Facilities/Recreation+Cent ers/Albemarle.htm> Albemarle Road Recreation Center. It is offered school days now through June 10, 2-6pm, Mon-Fri, for children ages 5-15. Participants may join any time. Programming includes creative arts, drama, healthy living, recreation and 4-H programs. Cost: $176 a month. Register at the front desk of Albemarle Road Recreation Center or call 311 or 704 567-1941 for details. _____ "ALL I NEED IS ONE MIC:" UNDERSTANDING HIP-HOP: WORKSHOPS IN JANUARY AT WEST CHARLOTTE REC CENTER Teens, ages 13-18, explore responsible Hip-Hop Wednesdays in Jan. (7, 14, 21 and 28), 5pm- 6pm at <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Facilities/Recreation+Cent ers/WestCharlotteRec.htm> West Charlotte Recreation Center. We partner with Urban Thoughts Inc. to present a program called "All I Need is One Mic" which includes discussions about the evolution of Hip-Hop, the plight of Hip- Hop Sista, self esteem and responsible lyrics, plus Hip-Hop and self expression. Workshops are FREE, but space is limited. For more information call 311 or 704 393-1560. Program Coordinator: <mailto:calandra.barnes@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> Calandra Barnes. _____ E-PLANT TIPS FOR WINTER FROM THE NC COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICE In Mecklenburg County, the Cooperative Extension Service is part of Park and Recreation and offers the following tips for gardeners in January: * Fertilize broad-leaved evergreens in the winter or spring. Fertilizing in the late summer induces late-season growth that is susceptible to winter injury. * Winter is the time to apply dormant oil sprays to kill overwintering mites, aphids, and scale on deciduous trees and shrubs. Spray oils when temperatures are above 40 F, but not within 24 hours of a freeze. Because the oil kills insects by suffocation, avoid spraying on windy days to ensure that all surfaces of the plant are covered. * Some plants that should be pruned in later winter or early spring are hydrangea, butterfly bush, Rose-of-Sharon, hibiscus and other summer-flowering shrubs that flower on new growth. _____ <http://www.charmeck.org/NR/rdonlyres/ewyrr6gmkb33fmcz5hk7vnd5awyagwq4egdebm ih7ryqpez5rmi44hubbvb2qzjq4gptnujfo4x2kwbldgqnxztz23f/311logomed.gif> UPCOMING EVENTSS For more information or to find out more about any of these programs, click the register online link or call 311 and reference the course number. HIKE FOR HABITATS Take a hike at <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Inside+The+Department/Divi sions/Stewardship+Services/Nature+Preserves/RibbonWalk.htm> RibbonWalk Nature Preserve, 4601 Nevin Rd to help support Park and Rec nature preserves: Sun, Jan 3, 9am - 2pm. Line-up sponsors for miles walked. No registration needed. See this urban forest. For more, <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Inside+The+Department/Divi sions/Stewardship+Services/Hike+for+Habitats.htm> click here. AEROBICS CLASSES Mondays & Wednesdays 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Adults are welcomed to join in a group exercise session at <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Facilities/Recreation+Cent ers/Tuckaseegee.htm> Tuckaseegee Recreation Center T EEN OBSTACLE COURSE Jan. 9, 4 pm-5 pm Teen are invited to gather at <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Facilities/Recreation+Cent ers/Mallard+Creek.htm> Mallard Creek Rec Center to square off on teams for obstacle course races. Cost is $2. On your mark, get set, GO! 704 5548-82344 OWL PROWL Sat., Jan. 19 at <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Greenways/McAlpine+Creek.h tm> Lower McAlpine Creek Greenway or Jan. 24 at <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Greenways/Little+Sugar+Cre ek+Greenway/Home.htm> Little Sugar Creek Greenway at Huntingtowne Farms entrance from 5-6:30 pm join a Naturalist and discover the variety of owls that live in this area. Enjoy a night hike - bring a flashlight. Details at 704.588-5224 SWIM LESSONS Be ready for the pool this summer by learning to swim this winter. The next sessions begin in early January and mid-February at the <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Aquatics/Aquatic+Center+In formation.htm> Aquatic Center, <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Aquatics/Rays+Splash+Plane t/Home.htm> Ray's Splash Planet and <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Aquatics/MarionDiehl.htm> Marion Diehl pools. <http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Aquatics/> More information about levels and classes. ARTHRITIS WATER EXERCISES Safely exercise joints with gentle stretches and range-of-motion in warm, shallow water. Sanctioned by Arthritis Foundation. Physician's release required. Sats. 11am-11:45am. Classes begin Jan. 3 and are on-going. Barcode # # <http://eparks.charmeck.org/Activities/ActivitiesCourseDetails.asp?cid=42534 > 40362. Learn more, call 311 at 704 336-DIVE(3483). WHISTLE WORTHY? Want to lifeguard this summer? Sign up NOW for Lifeguard Certification at the Aquatic Center? Classes begin each month. For details, call 704.336-DIVE, 704 432-4RAY or click here. FIT CITY WALKERS All recreation centers host clubs for Seniors to improve fitness. Walk with a group and enjoy fitness and fellowship. Call your closest recreation center for times. <http://www.charmeck.org/NR/rdonlyres/ewyrr6gmkb33fmcz5hk7vnd5awyagwq4egdebm ih7ryqpez5rmi44hubbvb2qzjq4gptnujfo4x2kwbldgqnxztz23f/311logomed.gif> _____ <https://service.govdelivery.com/service/user.html?code=NCCHARMECK> Unsubscribe from this service or update your preferences. This service is provided to you by Mecklenburg County Taxpayers <http://www.mecklenburgcountync.gov/> GovDelivery, Inc. sending on behalf of CharMeck.org . 380 Jackson Street Suite 550 . St. Paul, MN 55101 . 1-800-439-1420