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I cannot believe that spring break is quickly approaching. Don’t forget to change your clocks tonight for daylight savings. This is also the time of year that Open Gym will end as the days get longer and the weather warms up, allowing kids to enjoy the parks outside. The last day is Thursday, March 14. 

We have a NEW program called Junk to Glam Barbie Dreamhouse on April 13 from 10-11:30 a.m. at Washington Park Inside Pavilion. Families are invited to work together to build a Barbie Dreamhouse out of a box and upcycle items to use as decorations. All supplies will be provided. Make sure you bring your Barbie doll to try out its new home. The morning will also include refreshments and a photo area. Registration is limited to the first 20 boxes sold, and the cost is $15 per box to create your very own Barbie Dream House. When registering, please indicate how many will be attending in your group. An adult is required to be present with their child/children to assist in the build.

Speaking of new events, we have decided to begin offering Tot Swim Lessons for ages 2-3, in addition to our already popular Pee Wee Swim (4-pre-K) and Group Swim lessons for K-12. Registration for all swim lessons will be held on Saturday, April 27, in the foyer of City Hall (128 E Market) from 9-11 a.m. 

Early swim lessons set a positive foundation for a lifetime of participation and enjoyment in and under the water. Swim lessons for children who have just finished grades K-11 are held Monday through Friday, June 3-14 at either 10-10:50 a.m. or 11-11:50 a.m. OR June 24-July 5 at 11-11:50 a.m. at the Wells Community Pool. Diving lessons are only offered at the June 24-July 5 classes for students who have passed all the swim levels. The cost is $20, due at registration. 

Pee Wee Swim Lessons for ages 4 through pre-K will run M-W-F the week of June 17. Swim time is from 11 to 11:45 a.m.; a parent must get in the water with each child. The cost is only $6 per child. 

Tot Swim lessons for ages 2-3 will be M-W-F the week of June 17 from 10-10:45 a.m. An adult must get in the water with each child. 

If your child would benefit from one-on-one lessons, call the Wells Community pool starting May 25 to schedule private lessons at 824-1550. Dates and times vary according to the rental calendar. Lessons cost $25 per half hour, and openings fill up fast. 

Mark your calendars for the next Theater Thursday, which will be held on March 21. The Bluffton Parks Department and Wells County Public Library have partnered to offer adults a free monthly movie. The movie starts at 10 a.m. at the Wells County Public Library. 

We want to thank our most recent donors who have contributed to the Kehoe Concert Series. Thank you, Fairway Floor Covering, Meyer Building; AdamsWells Internet Telecom TV, ProFed Credit Union, Napa, Phil and Sue Swain, Brad and Michelle Baumgartner, Diane Humphrey, Patricia Troxel, Raymond James Kim Gentis, Habig Trucking & Excavating, Complete Smiles, Roembke Mfg & Design, Craigville Appliance and Family Ford of Bluffton. We truly appreciate these donations that keep this event free for our community to enjoy. 

Reminder: Baseball, Softball, T-ball, and any team organizers who wish to request diamond rentals during 2024 must attend the next Park Board meeting, which is scheduled for Thursday, March 14, at 6:30 p.m. on the 2nd floor of City Hall to coordinate schedules. Questions about the diamonds and rental agreements can be sent in advance by calling 824-6069 or e-mailing parks@blufftonindiana.gov. 

Have a great week!