Please watch for a text, or check parks.wirapids.org and the Parks & Recreation Facebook page prior to calling the office regarding cancellation of various activities sponsored by the Parks & Recreation Department due to inclement weather. Classes missed for individual absences (i.e., illness, vacations, etc.) are not “made-up” nor may participants attend classes other than the one they are registered for.

Closures, Cancellations & Make-Ups

Insurance

Participants assume the risk of injuries that occur during programs and activities. The City of Wisconsin Rapids and the Parks & Recreation De-partment are not liable for any injuries, or for the treatment of those injuries. Participants are encouraged to obtain their own health or other insurance to cover their participation in these programs and activities.

Wisconsin Rapids Parks & Recreation Gift Certificates are available in any amount $5 and over, and can be used toward any program offered by the City of Wisconsin Rapids Parks & Recreation Department. For complete details, give us a call!

A Great Gift Idea

Photographs

For program promotion purposes, we may photograph several of our activities and their participants. Photographs may be used in various fliers, brochures or on our website. If you do not wish to have your or your child’s photo taken, please notify us when registering.

Refunds

Full Refunds will be given if: 1) Program is cancelled, 2) Attendee gives at least 24 hours’ notice prior to the start of the program, or 3) If there are changes to the original schedule and the participant can no longer attend. No refunds will be issued after the start of the program. Class fees will not be prorated.

Resident/Non-Resident

Programs and services provided are open to ALL Wisconsin Rapids residents, at a reduced rate. A resident is defined as any individual who lives within the boundaries of the city of Wisconsin Rapids. Non-residents may participate in our programs for an additional fee. A non-resident includes individuals who live outside the city limits yet may be in the Wisconsin Rapids School District.

City Park Facilities for Rent

Starting & Ending Class Time Reminder

Our instructors need time to open facilities and prepare for your class. Please provide proper supervision, as children “dropped off” before classes start will not be supervised by our staff. Parents should not leave until instructors have called their class and taken attendance. Classes will end as scheduled. Instructors are either preparing for the next class or closing the facility; your promptness in picking up your child is necessary.

Office Hours 8 a.m. - Noon & 1 - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday

Online registration and facility rentals available at any time at wr.activityreg.com

Helen’s House - At Wisconsin Rapids Municipal Zoo, 1921 Gaynor Ave-nue. Enclosed shelter; air conditioning, kitchen, including sink with hot/cold water, counters with plug-ins, pass-through window and refrigera-tor; accommodates 50-60. $150 + key deposit

Robinson Park - 1150 17th Street North. Open shelter; fireplace, band shell available, accommodates up to 200. $100 + key deposit if using band shell

Sand Lot Park - 453 Goodnow Avenue. Open shelter; enclosed kitchen, accommodates 75. $100 + key deposit Wisconsin Rapids Recreation Center Shelters (681 Chestnut Street) Surrounding park area includes play equipment, with seasonal ameni-ties (aquatics center or skating pond). Pool passes are not included.

Aquatics Rapids Room Resident rental: $150 + $100 key/security de-posit; Non-Resident rental: $250 + $100 key/security deposit. Enclosed shelter; holds approximately 75 people. Kitchen with refrigerator, mi-crowave, sink, serving window, counter space, eight 8’ tables.

Aquatics Open Shelter (Park and enter from Apple Street) Rental: $100 Covered shelter; holds approximately 60-70 people. Electrical outlets; eight 8’ tables.

Aquatics Family Area Shelter (inside pool area) Rental: $80 Covered shelter; holds approximately 35-40 people. Six 6’ tables.

Reservations taken on first-come, first-served basis with payment due at the time of reservation. Reservations may be made online (parks.wirapids.org) or at the Wisconsin Rapids Parks & Recreation Department. Park reservations may be made one year in advance. You may check park facility availability by scanning right!

2021 Summer Recreation Activity Guide Wisconsin Rapids Parks & Recreation Department

444 West Grand Avenue, Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54495-2780 Phone: (715) 421-8240 / Website: parks.wirapids.org / Email: parksdepartment@wirapids.org

Summer Program Registration

begins on Monday, May 17, at 8 a.m. Online registration

available at parks.wirapids.org, or scan code at

right for a direct link. Registration will continue

until each class is filled. Classes are filled on first-

come, first-served basis. Payment must be made

at time of registration. Class sizes are limited.

Registration Info

Adult Herb Gardening (Wunrow’s)

In this hands-on class you will plant 4 herbs into a 10-12” round or rectangular planter to take home. Choose from a variety of herbs. We provide: soil, herbs, and instruction. Bring your own gloves and planter. Class size is limited. Must pre-register; no walk-ins allowed. Date Day Time June 7 Monday 6-7 p.m. Pre-Registration Fee: $5.00 Class Fee: $15 (Due on day of class.)

Pickleball Drop-In Pick-Up Play (Ages 12+)

Drop-in pick-up games allow you to drop in without the need to form, join, or register a team. Just drop-in on any of the days listed below and play! It’s a great way to meet new people! All ages and levels wel-come. Bring your own paddle and pickleballs. Weather dependent. (Witter Field Courts) (No charge) Dates Day Time June 7-August 30 Monday 8 a.m.-Noon June 2-August 25 Wednesday 6-8:30 p.m. June 3-August 26 Thursday 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Pickleball Tournament (Ages 14+)

Register your team for our first ever Pickleball tournament! Saturday, August 7, open doubles. Intermediate tournament will be held in the morning and advanced tournament in the afternoon. Round Robin play format. Awards to top 3 teams in each division. Registration Deadline: Noon on August 3. (Witter Field Courts) Fees: $10 Resident; $15 Non-Resident

Art in the Park (ages 12+)

Discover a fun way to unwind with your friends! Reconnect while the instructor guides you through creating your own masterpiece. Bring your own beverage. No experience necessary. Classes will be held in Helen’s House at the Wisconsin Rapids Municipal Zoo. Date Day Time Theme July 15 Thursday 6-8 p.m. Macramé Hanging August 5 Thursday 6-8 p.m.. Terra Cotta Pots Fees: $14 Resident; $21 Non-Resident

This training provides kids, grades 6-8, with the information and skills necessary to provide safe and responsible care in the absence of parents/guardians. Students learn safety, child care first aid, rescue, life and business skills. Students should bring a bag lunch and doll or stuffed animal to class. Participant handbook will be distributed at beginning of class. Limit 8. Location: City Hall Council Chambers Date Day Time May 22 Saturday 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. June 24 Thursday 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. July 20 Tuesday 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. August 25 Wednesday 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Fees: $30 Resident; $45 Non-Resident

SafeSitter (Babysitting)

Pee Wee Basketball (Ages 5-6) Participants will be introduced to basic skills of ball handling and shooting through various NEW active drills and activities. Dates Day Time Ages August 6, 13, 20 Friday 8:30-9 a.m. 5-6 Fees: $10 Resident; $15 Non-Resident

Mini Dribblers (Ages 6-8) Participants will be taught the inner workings of team play and game strategy, with continued emphasis on improving the basic fundamentals such as dribbling, passing, rebounding and shooting. Dates Day Time Ages August 6, 13, 20 Friday 9-9:30 a.m. 6-8 Fees: $10 Resident; $15 Non-Resident

Basketball (East Junior High Fieldhouse)

Pickleball Trial Daze

Give it a try! Register for our first beginner pickleball summer trial! Check it out and see if this new sport is for you. Experienced players will be on hand to help get you started in the sport. Register individu-ally. Participants must furnish their own paddle. All ages welcome.

Date Day Time July 20 Tuesday 2-2:45 p.m. August 12 Thursday 2-2:45 p.m. Fees: $4 Resident; $6 Non-Resident

Due to current state and county COVID recommendations, participants may adhere the following guidelines:

1) Wear masks; 2) Physically distance; 3) Sanitize hands regularly; 4) Stay home if feeling sick.

Parks & Recreation Staff

Dawn Desorcy, Parks & Recreation Coordinator Jake Klingforth, Public Works Supervisor Mary Wolosek, Recreation Supervisor

Non-Residency is any location outside of the Wisconsin Rapids city limits; i.e., Biron, Grand Rapids, Kellner, Nekoosa, Port Edwards, Rudolph, Saratoga, etc. Even if your address is Wisconsin Rapids, you are not considered a resident if you live in a surrounding community. If you have a question about your residency, please give us a call – and thank you for your interest and participation in our programs!!

A Note About Residency

Kids Golf (Witter Field)

For the young first time golfer. Instruction will concentrate on learn-ing the basics of the golf swing and the rules of the game. Class in-cludes fun drills, skills, and games. Equipment provided. Class size is limited.. Location: Witter Field, Lincoln Street Session Date Ages Day Time July 19, 26, Aug. 2 6-8 Monday 6:30-7 p.m. July 19, 26, Aug. 2 9-12 Monday 7-7:30 p.m. Fees: $10 Resident; $15 Non-Resident

Soccer (Witter Field)

Little Kickers (ages 3-7) This class is designed to have fun with soccer and develop basic skills. Emphasis is on sportsmanship, safety, teamwork and fun. Parents are encouraged to participate with their child. Classes size is limited. Par-ents needed to assist with program. If interested, contact Mary at the Parks & Recreation Department. Location: Witter Field, Lincoln Street Dates Day Time Ages July 21, 28 & August 4 Wednesday 6:30-7 p.m. 3-4 July 21, 28, & August 4 Wednesday 7-7:30 p.m. 5-7 Fees: $10 Resident; $15 Non-Resident

Pitch Ball Leagues (ages 6-8)

(Registration began March 1; limited spots remaining.)

All games will be played at Witter Field on Mondays & Wednesdays. Rules are adapted for the younger child, and the coaches pitch. No games July 1. Parent coaches needed. Dates Time Divisions Ages June 16-July 14 7-8 p.m. Pitch Ball 6-8 Fees: $14 Resident; $21 Non-Resident

*Please call the Parks & Recreation Department for details!

Youth Pickleball Skills & Drills (Witter Courts)

Volleyball Lessons

We are offering a night at the ballpark on Thursday, July 22. $12 ticket includes 1 Reserved Seat, 1 Rafter’s Hat, 1 Hot Dog & Fountain Drink This is a great family event! T-ball/Pitch Ball participants are encour-aged to wear their t-shirts to the game. One lucky player will throw out the first pitch of the game. Purchase your ticket/s at the Rafter’s Office by July 8! Thank you for supporting your local Parks & Recreation Department!

Kinder Volleyball (ages 6-8) Kinder volleyball is an introduction to the game. Participants will learn beginner skills through a variety of fun drills and games. Using a modi-fied court and equipment, youth will learn the fundamentals of pass-ing, serving, setting and spiking. Location: East Junior High Fieldhouse Dates Day Time August 2, 9, 16 Monday 8:30-9 a.m.. Fees: $10 Resident; $15 Non-Resident

Kids Volleyball Instruction (ages 8-12) Fundamentals of volleyball will be introduced; including bumping, setting, and serving with an emphasis on having fun. Kids will learn basic team strategies and skills to improve footwork and coordina-tion. Classes held at East Junior High Fieldhouse. Dates Day Time August 2, 9, 16 Monday 9-9:45 a.m. Fees: $11 Resident; $17 Non-Resident

WR Parks and Rec Rafters Night

Come learn pickleball in a fun and supportive environment. The sport is an inclusive activity for all ages that combines the structure of tennis with similar scoring to table tennis. It is an easy sport for beginners to learn and develop into a fun and fast-paced game. Participants must furnish their own pickleball paddle. Pickleballs are provided. Location: Witter Pickleball Courts

Novice (ages 7-14) Participants will learn the proper technique in the forehand, backhand, volley, ready position and serve. Basic rules and scoring will also be emphasized. Dates Days Time July 13, 20, 27 Tuesday 1-1:45 p.m. August 12, 19, 26 Thursday 1-1:45 p.m. Fees: $11 Resident; $17 Non-Resident

Drop the phone. Ditch the electronics. Bring the family to fun art, not fine art. You don’t need to be an artist to have fun! Classes feature step-by-step instruction designed for all ages and skill levels. Class will meet in Helen’s House at the Wisconsin Rapids Municipal Zoo. Date Day Time Theme June 18 Friday 10-11 a.m. Puppy July 16 Friday 10-11 a.m. Zoo Animal August 6 Friday 10-11 a.m. Butterfly Fees: $20 Resident; $30 Non-Resident (Maximum 2 Family Members)

Family Paint Events (Ages 8+)

Mead Splash Pad is

located on 14th

Avenue South,

between Chase and

Alton Street

Zoo Information

Check the City’s website (https://www.wirapids.org/zoo.html) or Facebook page (Wisconsin Rapids Parks & Recreation) for updates and closures. Open 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday (Petting Zoo closed daily from 1-2 p.m.) The zoo opens for the season on Memorial Day, May 31 and closes on Sunday, August 29. No admission fee. Amenities include Helen’s House (enclosed rentable shelter) and open shelter area with outdoor grill, play equipment, restrooms, and bike trail. Zoo closes at 4 p.m. on July 4.

Petting Zoo Rules & Regulations: 1) Children must be supervised at all times while in the petting zoo area. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. 2) There is zero tolerance of any form of harassment toward the animals or zoo/petting zoo patrons. A patron whose behavior endangers the safety of the animals or other zoo/petting zoo patrons will be asked to leave the zoo for the season, and authorities will be notified. 3) Designated zoo animals may be fed, but ONLY using the feed in dispensers provided by the zoo. 4) Pets are not permitted. Food, beverages, glass beverage containers, bottles, sippy cups, toys, stuffed animals, pacifiers, bicycles, rollerblades, skateboards, scooters, balloons, and selfie sticks are not allowed. 5) Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water as soon as you leave the animal area. Hand sanitizer is also available for your use. 6) It is the responsibility of parents to ensure children follow all of the rules. 7) In the event of an emergency, please dial 911. 8) Report damage, vandalism or other issues to the Parks & Recreation Department, Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., (715) 421-8240. On weekends or after hours, call the Police Department’s non-emergency number, (715) 423-4444, and press #2. 9) Most important: HAVE FUN!!

Zoo Story & Chat Time

Bring your family to our Story & Chat Time Program! Would you have story time in a boat, with a goat? Would you, could you, at the zoo? Stories and the great outdoors! Also, learn some fun facts about your favorite animals at the zoo. Rain or shine.

The Wisconsin Rapids Municipal Zoo chat and story time is open to everyone! June 15 - August 17.

Tuesdays at 10:30-11 a.m. meet in Petting Zoo.

This is a great way to get your children engaged and excited about exploring your local zoo without skipping a beat. Can they meet this challenge before the day is through? Only time will tell! Visit the petting zoo attendant for a form and begin your adventure.

Zoo Scavenger Hunts

Story Walks® are picture books which have been separated and mounted onto boards. These boards are spread out in the area and families can walk along from one to the other and read the book as they go. Staff will be on hand to help groups maintain social distanc-ing. Story Walks® will be held weather permitting. Program offered by McMillan Library. FREE to the community! Dates Day Time Park June 11 Friday 10-Noon Robinson June 18 Friday 10-Noon Mead Splash Pad June 25 Friday 10-Noon Sandlot Park July 9 Friday 10-Noon Aquatic Center

Story Walks® in the Parks

Wisconsin Rapids Bird City Exploration (Gr. 3-6)

Come join us to learn more about birds. We’ll learn more about the birds, go on an identification walk, practice using binoculars, and play bird-related games and more. Parents welcome to accompany, make it a family outing. Grades 3-6. Class is limited. Free! Location: Helen’s Zoo House, Gaynor Avenue Date Day Time August 3 Tuesday 8-10 a.m.

Free Activities!

2021 Summer Recreation Activity Guide Wisconsin Rapids Parks & Recreation Department

444 West Grand Avenue, Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54495-2780 Phone: (715) 421-8240 / Website: parks.wirapids.org / Email: parksdepartment@wirapids.org

June 2 - August 18

Wednesdays and Fridays

10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

All ages welcome

Fun for family and friends

FREE!

Join our active group of volunteers and be a part of a team that can make a differ-ence! Volunteers are needed to help coach, distribute flyers, assist with sports and special events. You’ll have fun, make new friends, learn new skills and enrich the lives of your neighbors in the community. If you are interested in volunteering with the Recreation Department, please contact us at (715) 421-8240. Scan left for our volunteer application.

Volunteer Opportunities

Aquatics Center

The Aquatics Center, 681 Chestnut Street, is open June 7 through August 22, 2021. Open Swim Hours: Monday-Thursday Noon-6 p.m. Friday & Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday Noon-5 p.m. Check our Facebook pages (Wisconsin Rapids Aquatic Center and Wisconsin Rapids Parks & Recreation) for rules, updates, and closures. Day Passes (ages 3+) Resident and Non-Resident: $7 Residents may purchase a punch card for $20 (5 entries) Age 2 and under (with paid adult pass): FREE Scan right for season pass information!