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Youth invited to splash through summer
There’s still time to register for program

Lynda Duffy/WGCN
Swimming is only one of many activities offered to youth during the city of Williams' Summer Spash Rec Program organized by the Williams Parks and Recreation Department.

Lynda Duffy/WGCN Swimming is only one of many activities offered to youth during the city of Williams' Summer Spash Rec Program organized by the Williams Parks and Recreation Department.

Children ages 6-13 still have time to splash into summer at the Williams Recreation Center, 301 W. Railroad Ave. The Summer Splash Rec Program began June 1 and will continue through July 24. The fun is offered 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Friday. This is the 22nd year the city of Williams has offered youth a summer recreation program.

There are approximately 100 children enrolled in the program. Not all children attend everyday.

"No one is required to come everyday," said Rose Newbold, director of the city's recreation program. "You can go just one day, or wait until the last day to attend."

Five dedicated staff members assure the program runs smoothly. An additional three staff members are available if necessary. Parents are welcome to attend fieldtrips.

"If there is no room on the bus, parents can travel in their own vehicles," Newbold said.

Newbold says she looks forward to the summer rec program every year.

"It's a fun community program that the kids enjoy year after year. We get them at the age of five or six, and generally they are begging to stay when they are 14," she said. "It's a very personal experience, not just for me, but for all staff members. The staff takes very personal interest in all the children."

Through the years, Newbold has watched many of her summer rec charges reach adulthood.

"I just attended my 13th Williams High School graduation this year, and it's quite overwhelming," she said. "A young lady that graduated in 1999 recently traveled from North Carolina to see me, along with her two beautiful children and a wonderful husband."

The cost to attend summer rec is $3 per day plus fieldtrip costs. Newbold stressed that financial constraints will be discussed on an individual basis, and that no family should feel excluded. Based out of the Williams Recreation Center, children will enjoy three days of swimming plus one fieldtrip per week. In addition to exclusive use of the skate park, participants can expect to participate in a talent show, Fourth of July Parade, pets on parade day, pajama day, crafts, games, fun and much more.

Girl Scouts - a new program for the rec center - will be offered at an additional cost on Wednesdays. Specifics are provided with the registration packet.

Registration packets can be picked up at the rec center. For more information call Rose, Lori or Chris at (928) 635-1496 or (928) 635-6784.


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