Report of the Park & Recreation Commission 2009
The Southwick Park and Recreation Commission experienced a very successful year. The Park and Recreation Commissioners have worked hard to provide the residents of Southwick with numerous organized events throughout the year.
In April, Park & Rec hosted a fun-filled Easter party, which the Easter Bunny attended. Refreshments were served and there were a large number of residents in attendance.
In May we took on a new member of our team - Tracy Cesan became our new Park and Recreation Secretary.
In May we also welcomed two new board members; Li-Ling Waller and Dan Call; welcome aboard.
The Rails to Trails project was a big part of our 2009 year. The Rails for Trails has been in production and development for over 15 years and 2009 was the year when all the planning had come together to give us a completed project. The fall of 2009 showed the residents of Southwick what the Rails for Trails will have to offer the town when it officially opens in the spring of 2010!
The town beach opened near the end of June and was open 7 days a week. The season was sun and fun-filled and residents thoroughly enjoyed the beach.
This year the Park and Recreation Commissioners decided to join in on the Fireman’s Parade. We had a great time and gave out over 10lbs of candy! We would love to partake in this event again next year!
The fireworks display was held in July with a record turnout of attendees. Vendors offered crafts, merchandise and refreshments. Children enjoyed bounce houses while DJ Vyce played great music for all ages. The fireworks were by far the best in the area once again.
The senior “sizzler” took place in August with the Park and Rec. Commissioners ready at the grill. The event was well attended and DJ Vyce was spinning great music for all. Bingo was played and prizes were won, it was a great time!
We welcomed the YMCA into our Town this year. The YMCA is now our after school care provider at the Southwick Town Hall. We love how professional and enthusiastic they are. The projects they get the kids involved in are great! The kids love those Friday skate nights at Amelia Park! Welcome aboard YMCA!!
In 2009 the Park and Recreation Commission started to update the Park and Rec. area located on the bottom level of the Town Hall. We purchased new pool sticks and pool balls for the pool tables. We purchased new equipment for the Ping Pong tables too! The Park and Rec. is open during Town Hall hours and is open to all citizens. In 2009 we purchased 3 new computers for public use as well. Although not hooked up to the internet they can be used by the public for any word processing projects and fun games (the computers will be available in late March 2010).
The annual Halloween Party took place in October and was well attended. Over 100 children dressed in their scariest and funniest costumes. Once again children were decorating pumpkins, enjoying arts and crafts, watching movies and snacking on Halloween treats.
In November The Park and Recreation Department dedicated the Southwick Town Beach to Mr. Charlie Baiardi. Mr. Baiardi owned the Southwick town Beach from the 1940’s until he sold it to the Town Of Southwick. A street sign was donated in Mr. Baiardi‘s honor and will be erected on the path leading down to the water. A bench was donated in memory of both Mr. Baiardi and Mr. Saunders.
The annual Children’s Christmas party was held in December. Over 100 children came to see Santa. The kids were treated to crafts, movies, and a gift from Santa while enjoying some delicious refreshments.
The Park and Recreation Commission is dedicated to working with the town’s residents to assist them with utilizing the town’s resources for their enjoyment. We thank everyone who has supported us in the past and we look forward to another successful year. Suggestions are always welcome.
Respectfully submitted,
Kelly Magni, Chairman
Michelle Ackerman, Commissioner
Dan Call, Commissioner
Susan Grabowski, Commissioner
Li-Ling Waller, Commissioner
Tracy Cesan, Secretary