Parks, rec., library and fun
Ok. So we know how hot it is. Now we have to figure out what to do about it all summer long. And do we have long summers! Expect it to last well through September and into October. Veterans of the heat tell me that deliverance comes, ironically, at Halloween. That treat is on us.
A reader wrote to tell me that the El Centro Chamber of Commerce used to sponsor a contest to see who could guess how long it would take for the block of ice to melt. It was on display in the JC Penny window at Fifth and Main streets. There was usually something inside the block of ice. I’ll volunteer if the Chamber restarts this event.
First, check with your city’s Parks and Recreation Department as well as your library. If you live in the county, check with the county library, www.co.imperial.ca.us. Each of the libraries, cities and county alike, are holding children’s summer reading programs. Plus, there are movies, guest speakers at workshops, and even meals.
Following are just examples of libraries, and parks and recreation activities throughout the Valley. This is not a complete list.
The El Centro Public Library has guest speaker presentations on Thursdays. Also, ask about arrangements for children and teens with disabilities. On June 29 at 10 a.m., the comic book guys from Calexico will be introducing kids to reading comic books. You missed a good one last week when Vince did a session on gardening, and a few hitchhiking roaches jumped out of a compost box. It caused a stir. The kids loved it, and it got their attention. I understand the roaches headed for the exits and didn’t stay for the free basil plants.
Movies are also shown during the week and meals are served at some libraries, but check with your local library for details. Adults: ask about your library’s Book Club that may meet monthly or more frequently. I hear that Calexico will meet twice monthly during the summer, and if you enjoy eating, this Book Club is the one for you.
Parks and recreation programs are on at Brawley, Calexico, El Centro, Holtville and Imperial.
Brawley Parks and Recreation Department More information at www.brawley-ca.gov or 760-344-5675. Summer day camp begins July 5. There are also swimming lessons for children, tots, adults, and disabled children and teens. A is for art classes, S is for senior nutrition, Z for Zumba, and the list goes on. Call and web it for details.
Calexico Parks and Recreation Department More information at www.calexicorecreation.org or 760-768-2176. Ritmos Latinos Dance Class for adults; Polynesian Dances for 4-11 years; Cupcake-cookie decorating class for boys and girls, 7-14. Hip-hop, karate, and TaiChi. Call for details.
El Centro Parks and Recreation Department In your browser type: City of El Centro Parks & Rec. guide, 2017, or 760-337-4555. Color brochure. Lots of summer camps in sports, arts, leadership, and more. Also, a summer meal program for youth and teens, plus a senior lunch program. Swimming at Central Union High pool. B is for bingo, BB is for basketball, C is for computer basics, S is for soccer coached by our talented neighbors, Mary and Ruby. Review the online brochure or call, but do not delay. Many camps are already closed, but check with your city.
Holtville Parks and Recreation Department More information is available at www.holtville.ca.gov or 760-356-2912. Check for activities at the Holtville pool. The Meyer Public Library, a county branch, has a summer reading program. Call 760-356-2385 for more info. Imperial Parks and Recreation Department More information at www.cityofimperial.org/2017-summer-activity-guide. For the library call 760-355-1332. The library has English conversation, craft days, movies and a game day. Parks and recreation are active with pool/aquatic activities, a music program already underway, culinary arts, summer camps, e.g., “Her Royal Highness Boot Camp,” a personal favorite. Call Worthington Square Community Center, 760-355-3316.
Long ago, I worked as a summer day camp counselor at Coney, not Comey, Island. It was great, but 30 8-year-old boys, Monday through Friday, would wear me out. The kids loved it.
Stay active, stay cool, and stay hydrated. Don’t allow this heat to get you dehydrated.