Fall 2018 Recreation Programs
Additional Links
*** The Halloween Party and pumpkin decorating has been moved indoors to Baker High School cafeteria on Saturday, October 20th*****
Fall Brochure Programs:
SAFE SITTER® BABYSITTING COURSE
WHO: Boys and girls 11-15 years old
WHEN: Saturday, November 10
TIME: 9:00am-2:30pm
WHERE: Van Buren Park Lodge FEE: $60/participant (Min. for class= 4; Max. # in class = 8)
Safe Sitter® teaches young teens everything they need to know to be safe when they're home alone, watching younger siblings or babysitting. Participants will learn life-saving skills such as how to rescue someone who's choking, basic first aid, how to handle situations that may occur, how to prevent injuries, how to seek help when serious issues arise and helpful information like what to do if there is severe weather.
Students will need to remain on site for the entire time so each participant will need to bring the following items to class: a lunch, drink, snack, notebook and a pen/pencil.
BALDWINSVILLE PEE WEE WRESTLING
WHO: Boys and girls, grades 1-6
WHEN: Mondays and Wednesdays, November 5-December 19 (except 11/12 & 11/21)
TIME: 6:15-8:00p.m.
WHERE: Baker High School, Wrestling Room
FEE: $35/participant (no shirt)
$40/participant (with shirt)
(Min. for class= 15; Max. # in class = 40)
Pee Wee Wrestling has returned to the Town of Van Buren with coaches Dan Allen, Matt McGivney and Jim Schanzenbach. This program will be held in a safe and fun environment where wrestlers will learn the basic fundamentals of the sport. With this they will learn respect for self and others, as well as discipline and self confidence.
DOG OBEDIENCE - BEGINNER CLASS
WHO: Dogs (at least 4 mos. old) and their handler (at least 14 years old)
WHAT: A beginner dog obedience class
WHEN: Session I: Mondays, September 24-November 5 (except 10/8)
Session II: Mondays, November 12-December 17
TIME: 6:45pm-7:30pm
WHERE: Van Buren Park Lodge
FEE: Beginner - $55.00/participant (Min. in class = 3, Max. in class = 8)
Beginner: This class will cover basic obedience training, so handlers can have fun with their dogs! Includes: heeling, stand, come, sit-stay and down-stay.
NOTE: Those registered need to bring proof of Rabies, DHL and Parvo inoculations to first class. You will also need to bring a six-foot lead and training collar to class (beginners) and a 10 foot lead to the advanced class. Please bring treats for reinforcements.
DOG TRAINING - BASIC MANNERS AND SOCIAL SKILLSCLASS
WHO: Dogs (at least 4 mos. old) and their handler (at least 14 years old)
WHAT: A continuation of basic dog obedience
WHEN: Session I: Mondays, September 24-November 5 (except 10/8)
Session II: Mondays, November 12-December 17
TIME: 7:45pm-8:30pm
WHERE: Van Buren Park Lodge
FEE: $60.00/participant (Min. in class = 3, Max. in class =5)
This class covers body language, leash manners, setting boundaries, correcting unwanted behavior and defining socialization.
Training collar and 6' leash are required. No flexi leads or choke collars allowed. All dogs must have current vaccines. Handlers should bring soft chewy treats.
Evaluations to ensure dogs have basic obedience skills, which are needed for the class, will be done the first night of class.
NOTE: Those registered need to bring proof of Rabies, DHL and Parvo inoculations to first class.
JR SCIENTIST CLASS
WHO: Children 8-12 years old
WHEN: Tuesdays and Thursdays, October 2-11
TIME: 5:45-6:45PM
WHERE: Van Buren Lodge (off of Connors Road)
FEE: $50.00/child (Min # of kids = 3, Max # of kids = 6)
If you're looking for some fun science experiments for kids then you've come to the right place. Learn interesting science facts by experimenting with different materials that react in surprising ways. You'll find a lot of experiments can be done using simple ingredients found around your house (with adult supervision of course). Basic materials can help you perform experiments that are simple, safe and perfect for kids.
Some of the experiments that we will be doing will include dancing raisins, elephant toothpaste, lumpy liquids/squishy solids and more!
** Kids will need to bring their own pair of goggles to the class!
JR SCIENTIST CLASS II
WHO: Children 8-12 years old
WHEN: Tuesdays and Thursdays, October 16-25
TIME: 5:45-6:45PM
WHERE: Van Buren Lodge (off of Connors Road)
FEE: $50.00/child (Min # of kids = 3, Max # of kids = 6)
If you're looking for some fun science experiments for kids then you've come to the right place. Learn interesting science facts by experimenting with different materials that react in surprising ways. You'll find a lot of experiments can be done using simple ingredients found around your house (with adult supervision of course). Basic materials can help you perform experiments that are simple, safe and perfect for kids.
Must have taken the first class in order to take this follow up class.
** Kids will need to bring their own pair of goggles to the class!
PEE WEE BASKETBALL
WHO: 4th & 5th grade children
WHAT: A beginner-level program to develop skills
WHEN: Wednesdays, November 14-January 23 (except 11/21 & 12/26)
***These are the actual dates!
WHERE: Elden Elementary
TIME: 3:30-5:00pm
FEE: $45.00/participant (includes a t-shirt)
(Max. # participants = 28)
Participants will learn fundamental basketball skills and strategy, as well as experience intramural team play. Come out and join us for an ACTION program!
CANVAS ART
Who: Kids 5 and up for all projects
Date: Tuesdays, October 16, December 4 and December 11
Time: 5:30pm - most projects will run 30-60 minutes
Location: Van Buren Park Lodge, Connors Road
Fee: 11”x14” canvas - $12
Minimum for each class=3; a maximum of 10 kids
Unleash your little Picassos! It’s the perfect opportunity for you to create a unique work of canvas art! There is no experience needed just your enthusiasm as our instructor will walk you through the creation. All the supplies are provided, participants will paint one canvas.
October 16:
December 4:
December 11:
YOGA FOR EVERYONE—WITH SYBIL
WHEN: Starting September 17/18
WHAT: A Hatha Yoga class and a Gentle & Restorative Yoga class
AGES: 13 and older
TIME: Monday Mornings - 9:00-10:00am – Yoga Basics & Beginners Yoga
Session 1 – Six weeks - Sept 17, 24, Oct 1, 8, 15, 22
Session 2 – Six weeks – Oct 29, Nov 5, 12, 19, 26, Dec 3
Monday Mornings - 10:30-11:30am – Simply Restorative Yoga
Session 1 – Six weeks - Sept 17, 24, Oct 1, 8, 15, 22
Session 2 – Six weeks – Oct 29, Nov 5, 12, 19, 26, Dec 3
Tuesday Evenings – 6:00-7:00pm - Yoga Basics & Beginners Yoga
Session 1 – Six weeks – Sept 18, 25, Oct 2, 9, 16, 23
Session 2 – Six weeks – Oct 30, Nov 6, 13, 20, 27, Dec 4
Tuesday Evening – 7:15-8:15pm - Simply Restorative Yoga
Session 1 – Six weeks – Sept 18, 25, Oct 2, 9, 16, 23
Session 2 – Six weeks – Oct 30, Nov 6, 13, 20, 27, Dec 4
WHERE: Willow Health & Wellness Center, 3090 Belgium Road (Rt 31). Across from NYS Troopers Station in the Physical Therapy Plus Building. Please use the rear entrance to the building.
FEE: $48.00/person/session
HATHA YOGA - teaches classic yoga postures with awareness of correct alignment. Class begins with centering on breath (pranayama) allowing you to turn inward and focus on the experience of the body and breath (meditation). Gentle warmup stretches follow and move into a variety of yoga postures (asanas). The postures will challenge the body & mind through
stretching, relaxing and breathing while holding the postures. Postures and holding times will be tailored according to fitness level of the class. Class ends with a lying out relaxation incorporating affirmations or guided relaxation. You will leave class feeling balanced, relaxed and energized.
Levels: All levels welcome - strength, stretch, relax, reduce stress, improve balance
GENTLE & RESTORATIVE YOGA - all levels including beginners and those with limitations This is a gentle practice benefits the bodies overall health and well-being. Class combines self-care techniques, gentle & supported poses, conscious breathing and meditation. It is appropriate for all students seeking the healing benefits of a very relaxing, gentle and restorative practice. Deep restorative work stretches and opens the body, improves posture, range of motion, and joint mobility. Reduces pain, muscle tension, and the effects of stress. Stimulates the immune system and helps balance the nervous system. Brings relief
from fatigue and insomnia and prepares us for a full, restful night's sleep. Students with injuries, arthritis or other chronic conditions, limitations related to age or size as well as students with a more vigorous yoga practice will benefit from this practice.
Blankets, bolsters, straps, and blocks will be provided but you are welcome to bring your own. A chair can be provided for those who are uncomfortable on the floor (laying poses will be skipped with focus on breath to modify). Balances & grounds us in life.
Please bring a yoga/exercise mat, blanket and water bottle to each class. Wear comfortable clothing and try not to eat for two
hours before the class.
The Town of Van Buren Halloween Fun-Fest will be held on Saturday, October 20, from 10:30am-1pm. at Van Buren Park (For inclement weather we will be using Baker High School cafeteria - final decisions on the location will be made Thursday, October 18 and will be posted here or on our Facebook page)
KIDS:
The day will feature carnival type games, a bounce house, refreshments/food (pizza, drinks and snacks will be on site), pumpkin decorating and more. Entry is free; however, attendees will need to buy wristbands for games and activities. Parents will need to purchase wristbands for each child. The $6 bands will include a goodie bag, unlimited game play and bounce house use. Refreshments, food and pumpkin decorating will be available at additional costs. Please see each individual descriptions for the Fun Fest for locations and additional pricing.
Come join us. Kids, don’t forget to wear your costumes.
Volunteers will be needed to set up and take down the chairs, help set up game booths, and run game booths for this event. Four hours of community service credit is available for volunteers.
HALLOWEEN PARTY
WHO: Children ages 10 & Under
WHEN: Saturday, October 20
TIME: 10:30am.-1pm.
WHERE: Van Buren Park, main entrance (Inclement weather -Baker High School cafeteria)
FEE: $6.00 wristband per child for the Halloween Party
***Pre-registration is requested to make sure we have enough goodies for everyone!
** 150 kid maximum
Participants can enjoy “terrifyingly” fun games and activities, all with a ghoulish flair! Don’t forget to bring your camera! Parents are required to stay with their children. Wristband activities include all the games, the inflatable bounce house and a goodie bag.
This is a rain or shine event! We will have tents in case of inclement weather.
TO REGISTER: Please realize there is a 150 kid maximum, so please don’t wait to register. If there are spaces available, you may pay the day of the event. Event day price is $7.00.
PUMPKIN DECORATING
WHO: Children ages 12 & Under
WHEN: Saturday, October 21
TIME: 10:30am– noon
WHERE: Van Buren Park, main entrance (Inclement weather - Baker High School cafeteria)
FEE: Pre-registered : $8.00 per child (pumpkin and refreshments)
If you register on the day of the event: $10.00 per child
(min. # of participants =10; max. # of participants = 25)
** Pre-registration is requested to make sure we have enough pumpkins for everyone!
Kids will hand pick their own pumpkin and decorate them with paints, feathers, glitter, etc.
** This event will happen rain or shine.
Registrations for this program need to be in by Wednesday, October 17th for pre-registration prices.
PUMPKIN DERBY
WHAT: A Parent/child pumpkin derby
WHO: Children between the ages of 5-12 must be paired with an adult.
WHEN: Saturday, October 20
TIME: Starts at 1:45 p.m. (check in time 1:30pm)
WHERE: Van Buren Park (Check in at pavilion B)
FEE: $3.00 per parent/child team
** Must be pre-registered by Wednesday, October 10, no exceptions
$5.00 per parent/child team if registered after October 10
** All registration forms must be in by Tuesday, October 16
Pumpkin Derby is a side-by-side race featuring handcrafted, decorated Pumpkin Racers in a display of ingenuity. Excitement builds as Pumpkin Racer contestants battle head-to-head for the coveted Pumpkin Derby Championship Trophy. We also award a prize for Best Decoration and Design. The pumpkins may be whole, carved, painted, and/or decorated in any manner. Be as creative as you can.
Requirements: The Pumpkin Racer must be made from one pumpkin or fall gourd with independent axles and wheels, or anything that will allow the pumpkin to roll (no skateboard, scooters, etc). Racers must be powered by gravity; no fans, batteries, motors, etc.
*** Rain or shine
Racer Examples:
WHEN: Saturday, September 22 (Rain or shine) Race starts at 10:00 AM
WHO: Teams of 4 Must be at least 8 years old to compete
WHERE: Van Buren Park, Pavilion B, 7350 Canton Street, Baldwinsville, NY
COST: $60 per team
The Amazing Race will be an all day event where teams will be asked to solve clues, perform challenges and tour the Baldwinsville area as you compete for prizes.
Looking for four person teams. Team members must be over the age of 12 to compete as individual teams. Adult teams may have a participant as young as 8 to help compete.
Each team is responsible for its own transportation. Special prize packages will be awarded to the top 3 teams overall.
**One person from each team must have a cell phone capable of sending pictures back to the park. At one stop we will need to receive the picture in order to give you the next clue!**
This will be a first come, first serve event. We will be accepting a maximum of 15 teams for the event, so when the information is ready please don’t wait to register!
For more information, please contact the Parks and Rec Dept. at 315-638-4727.
In order to register, please download the registration forms from our website and mail in the team information and payment.
SANTA’S HELPERS
WHO: Children 5-11 years old
WHEN: Saturday, December 22
TIME: 10:00am-3:00pm.
WHERE: Van Buren Lodge (off of Connors Road)
FEE: $15.00/child (Min # of kids = 6, Max # of kids = 15)
Finish your Christmas shopping and drop your kids off for 5 hours of babysitting right before the holidays. Kids can make crafts, watch holiday movies, play games, decorate Christmas cookies, go sledding on the hill, etc.
Children will be required to bring their own lunch and drinks (extra snacks will be provided). Children that wish to go sledding will also need to bring their own sleds with them.
HANDPRINT
WHO: Anyone 3 and older
WHEN: Saturday, December 15
TIME: 10:30am-11:30am
WHERE: Van Buren Town Hall
FEE: $14.00/participant (Minimum for class=3; Max for class=6)
Capture a handprint that will last forever in a 3-Dimensional plaster mold. Plaster will need to dry overnight. Children will take the mold home for the night, along with supplies, and decorate at home.
GINGERBREAD HOUSE
WHO: Children ages 6 and up
WHEN: Saturday, December 15
TIME: 3:30pm - 5:00pm
WHERE: Van Buren Town Hall
FEE: $12.00/child (Min. # of kids=6; Max # of kids=15)
No baking necessary! Real gingerbread pieces will be all ready to assemble and decorate without the mess of baking. Kids will be have icing, assorted candies, decorating bags and tips and a cardboard base to decorate with. We will be watching Christmas movies while assembling and decorating our houses.
DECORATE YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS PLATE
WHO: 3 year olds and up
WHEN: Saturday, December 22
TIME: 4:00-4:30pm
WHERE: Van Buren Park Lodge (Connors Road)
FEE: $10.00/child (Min. # of kids=6; Max # of kids=15)
Do your kids leave cookies for Santa? Kids can decorate their own holiday plate, for Santa this year - they are fun to do and will be a real keepsake. Or give as a special gift for that special person on your holiday list. After decorating the plate, kids will finish by decorating some of their own cookies to take home.
MAKE YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS/DECORATIONS
WHO: Children ages 5 and up (younger children may sign up but only if accompanied by an adult!)
WHEN: Saturday, December 15
TIME: 12:30-3:00pm
WHERE: Van Buren Town Hall
FEE: $24.00/child (Min. # of kids=6; Max # of kids=15)
Kids will create between 4 - 8 Christmas keepsakes right before the holiday season. Crafts will include salt dough handprints, Christmas ornaments, reindeer pals, etc.
We will be watching Christmas movies as we are making our crafts.
Please make sure your children come dressed in old clothes.
The Town of Van Buren Parks and Recreation Department offers recreation programs for all ages! These change seasonally; all are listed in the Parks and Recreation Department program brochures. These are published 3 times per year (December, April and September) and distributed to schools in the Baldwinsville School District (now done electronically – email blasted through the school district), the banks in the Baldwinsville area, the Baldwinsville Public Library, and the Baldwinsville Chamber of Commerce. They can also be found at the Van Buren Town Hall, and at the Parks and Recreation Office.
REGISTRATION PROCEDURE FOR PROGRAMS
Please do not wait to register for a program! There is a point – usually 5 business days prior to start date – when we need to make a decision whether to cancel a program due to lack of participation. Invariably, we get many telephone inquiries on a program after we’ve cancelled it!
Registrations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and are accepted:
- Until the business day prior to the program start date,
- By a specified registration deadline (will be listed with the program, if applicable), OR
- Until the program fills to capacity!
Fill out a registration form (one per person). These can either be downloaded from this website, or found in the Recreation Departments program brochures. Mail the form(s) with payment to the Parks and Recreation Department, or stop by during office hours (8:30am.-4:00pm., Monday-Friday).
Payment is accepted in the form of cash or check only – we do not accept credit cards! Please do not send cash through the mail. Completed registration form and payment must be received by this office prior to participation in a program.
** Due to budgetary and time constraints, you will NOT be sent a confirmation of your registration, OR be contacted by telephone! You will ONLY be contacted if we are unable to fit you into the program requested, or in the event of a program cancellation. So, if you do not hear from us, simply report to the program the first day it meets. You are certainly welcome to contact this office to check on any registrations.
SUGGESTIONS
Most of the activities listed in our brochure are the result of interest on the part of an individual or group of people. If you would like our department to expand on any existing programs or create new ones, we would welcome your suggestions! Either mail or email your ideas, call us, or visit the Parks & Recreation office during business hours. We’d love to hear from you!