Parks board highlights Winterfest donations, senior programming and spring events

Parks staff told the board on Jan. 14 that Winterfest concluded earlier this month with 13 nonprofit volunteers and more than $3,000 distributed to participating nonprofit groups.

"We had 13 nonprofit volunteers and were able to donate over $3,000 amongst all of them," staff said, noting the proceeds went to organizations that staffed seasonal venues such as a skate shed and hot chocolate chalet.

Staff also described programming changes for older adults: the Forever Young Club will add game days on Thursdays, chair cardio on second and third Fridays, chair yoga on the last Friday of each month, and an evening arts‑and‑crafts class on third Fridays from February through April to accommodate members who work during the day.

Other calendar items flagged to the board included a winter market on Feb. 5 (4–7 p.m.), a Black History Month program on Feb. 11 (7–8 p.m. at the Theater at The Forts), and a Spring Fling planned for March 28. Staff reported Burns Park is already booking events for the year, including requests from Gaelic and drum corps organizations, and that facility rentals are filling up.

Board members encouraged staff to follow up on a planned ribbon‑cutting for OIO/FC Pride and to continue outreach to donors and partners to support expanded programming.