Westlake Rec looks back on summer, plans for fall

Jungle Terry made a surprise visit to the Westlake Rec's summer camp. The children were delighted to meet Jungle Terry's animals, including his Burmese python. Photo by Onat Tugnac

With school preparation in full swing, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the fun we had at the Westlake Recreation Center this summer. As a new school year begins, take a moment to check out the programs and activities planned for the fall.

Our first annual Howl at the Moon dog walk kicked off our summer. This event, benefitting the Westlake Animal Shelter, included ice cream treats for dogs and their people, face painting, and of course, a dog walk along the paved trail on the Recreation Center's grounds.

The Rec Center’s annual Family Campout was a huge success! Onat Tungac, our Assistant Aquatics Director, and his family, Tracy and Charlotte, hosted the event packed with lots of fun activities. Six families spent the evening under the stars making memories, sharing laughs, and eating s’mores.

Children attending Summer Camp had a great time swimming, Zumba dancing, and practicing yoga. They enjoyed weekly field trips too, including an adventure to Make Believe Family Fun Center in Parma and cheering on the Lake Erie Crushers at Sprenger Stadium in Avon.     

These are but a few highlights of the fun activities and programs we offered this summer, but the fun continues. Check out some of the activities and programs being offered now and continuing through the fall season.

Is your child interested in playing football? A Coed-Flag Football League for children grades 1-6 begins weekly practice Aug. 28. This non-contact league includes teams from Westlake, Bay Village, Fairview Park and North Olmsted. Practices will be held in Westlake but Saturday games will be both home and away. Interested in coaching your child's team? Coaching opportunities are available. Registration is open online or visit the Westlake Recreation Center.

Partnering with UH St. John Medical Center, we are excited to host the 27th annual Celebrate Westlake. This fun-filled family event on Saturday, Sept. 2, has many activities including a 5K run/walk, a kids fun dash, and a health and fitness expo. For more information and registration please visit celebratewestlake.org.

Mark your calendars for our annual Fall Festival on Oct. 14! This year we will have hay rides, face painting, inflatables, and of course our Pumpkin Hunt for children ages 9 and under. Joining us for the first time will be food trucks from local restaurants. All are invited to attend the Fall Festival however, registration is required to participate in the Pumpkin Hunt.

The Fall Rec Gazette is available online detailing the  programs and activities offered by the Westlake Recreation Center. Please visit our website, www.cityofwestlake.org/287/Recreation or call 440-808-5700. Registration may be completed online or in person at the Rec Center, 28955 Hilliard Blvd. 

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Volume 9, Issue 16, Posted 10:09 AM, 08.15.2017