Congratulations to 8-year-old Farrah Quillen for being selected as this year’s Coloring Contest Winner out of 128 entries. She won the giant 4-foot stocking filled with toys and treats. We also want to congratulate this year’s Gingerbread Contest winners: Tucker King’s Snowy Cabin was first place in the ages nine and under category, while Lane McClure won with his entry of the Three Little Pigs in ages 10-16. This year’s adult winner is Deena McClure with her Christmas at the Cabin entry. Each winner was awarded Chamber Bucks for all their creative work.
It’s that time of year again when the Bluffton City Gym membership starts over. The door locks are scheduled to be re-keyed on Tuesday, Jan. 2. New keys are on sale in the park office on the 2nd floor of City Hall, 128 E Market. Becoming a member of the city gym gives you access to the fitness room, locker rooms, saunas, racquetball court, and gym. Single membership is only $95 for the year, or get fit as a family and purchase a family membership for $125 for the year.
Make sure the furry family members in your life get the gift that keeps on giving this Christmas. 2024 K9 Kommon’s Memberships are now on sale in the park office on the 2nd floor of City Hall. The $25 fee offers all the dogs in your household an opportunity to run, play, and socialize with other pets. The pouch playground includes a Rover Jump Over, Doggie Teeter Totter, Hoop Jump, King of the Hill, Doggie Crawl Tunnel, and a Fire Hydrant. The park is located at 805 W Washington Street. Forms can be found online at http://tinyurl.com/4h2jnjn8.
Don’t forget that pavilion rentals for May–December of next year will start Tuesday, Jan. 2. Call or stop by the park office beginning at 8 a.m. to schedule your rental (260) 824-6069. Openings fill up quickly, so be prepared with a few dates and times in mind when you reach out to us. Payment must be made within two weeks of scheduling to finalize your reservation. Forms and prices can be found online at http://tinyurl.com/2n9beh7k.
Hue Can Paint — it’s time to sign up for the Jan. 29 class to create a penguin in a winter scene. The Bluffton Parks Department will host a canvas painting class for youth ages seven and up. Lessons will be held at Washington Park (710 S Mulberry) from 6-7:45 p.m. Your kids will enjoy the step-by-step instructions from a local artist to paint a one-of-a-kind creation to take home. Not only will they leave with beautiful artwork, but they will also feel accomplished as they master the painting techniques. The cost is only $15 per person and includes all supplies and instructions. To register, call 824-6069 or e-mail events@blufftonindiana.gov.
It may seem early, but we are already thinking about summer. Teens and adults are encouraged to complete a SUMMER JOB APPLICATION to work for the Parks Department. Positions available include pool managers (must be 18), tennis instructors, pool maintenance personnel (must be 18), concession stand supervisors (must be 18), lifeguards/swim instructors, concessions (must be 15), general maintenance workers (must be 18). Applications can be found online at http://tinyurl.com/4vv8npuj. All applicants will be contacted by spring break to let you know the outcome of the Park Board’s decision.
We want to send a huge thank you to Steve and Yvette Huggins for their donation. We have lots of improvements planned for 2024, and we are so glad for all the community support.
May this season be full of light and laughter for you and your family. Merry Christmas!
Have a great week!
