Another summer is winding down. I have found myself walking around Warner Park daily to take in the sights and sounds of children and families. I have seen children fishing at the lagoon, Nature Explorers hiking the woods, NESCO hosting concerts, fireworks cracking at Mallards games and families enjoying Lake Mendota at Warner Beach.
These sights and sounds bring back memories of my youth. This summer I had the pleasure of mentoring an intern, Tykia, who is a high school student and a Madison resident through and through. She participated in the City of Madison Wanda Fullmore Internship Program, which placed 35 high school students into paid internships across city departments to learn about city jobs and gain valuable work experience. Tykia played a key role with our Summer Nights program, where the WPCRC transformed into a safe space for teens on Friday nights. She worked the front desk, taught art classes for Kids Kamp and went on field trips to Madison Parks facilities. Tykia did an excellent job. We wish her the best as she enters her senior year.
In a few weeks, school will be on the horizon and children will be wrapping up their summer fun. We want to make sure the fun continues as we welcome back all families to our fifth year of Warner Park Family Fun Nights. We are coming off a record year for participation and looking forward to another fun-filled school year.
Family Fun Nights will be on the second Friday of each month throughout the school year, beginning Sept. 14. The entire WPCRC will be open for a variety of activities. We are looking for local organizations to organize the art project each month and businesses to be sponsors.
I want to thank the wonderful MSCR Kids Kamp staff. Janet Dyer and her camp staff have done a great job creating summer experiences our campers will remember for a lifetime. Katonia, Hannah, Elijiah, Emily, Leander, Melia, Chad, Panra, Savaunnah, Christa, Shanon, Erica, Sarah, Jeremiah and Owen all did a great job. We appreciate the effort and energy put into camp this year.
As we look forward to fall, stop by the WPCRC and say hello. Check out programs and stay connected by liking our Facebook page, WarnerParkCRC.
