Polk City Parks & Recreation Summer 2023 Program Brochure

PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS

Start Smart Baseball

This is an organized, introductory baseball program for the first-time player. Parents will interact and learn how to teach their child a variety of baseball skills including throwing, catching, batting, and base running. Each child will receive a glove, ball, koosh-balls, and a bat.

Registration Deadline: Monday, May 1

Ages: 3-5 yrs.

Days: Monday/Wednesday

Dates: May 8-24

Time: 5-5:30PM

Cost: $50

Location: Kiwanis Park

Min/Max: 8/12

PARKS & RECREATION

Mission Statement

To provide high-quality facilities, parks, programs, and special events that meet the needs of the Polk City community.

Vision Statement

To be a leader in promoting community health and well-being through safe, diverse, and fun parks and recreation events and programs.

Start Smart Soccer

This is an organized, introductory soccer program for the first-time player. Parents will interact and learn how to teach their child a variety of soccer skills including dribbling, kicking, passing, and teamwork. Each child will receive shin guards, practice cones, and a soccer ball.

*When registering, please note there is an AM and PM session of this program.*

Registration Deadline: Tuesday, July 4

Ages: 3-5 yrs.

Days: Tuesday/Thursday

Dates: July 11-27

Time: 9-9:30AM

Cost: $50

Location: Sports Complex Min/Max: 8/16

Registration Deadline: Tuesday, July 4

Ages: 3-5 yrs.

Days: Tuesday/Thursday

Dates: July 11-27

Time: 5-5:30PM

Cost: $50

Location: Sports Complex Min/Max: 8/16

3 WAYS TO REGISTER

• Online at https://www.polkcityia.gov/ parks-and-recreation.

• In-person at City Hall, 112 Third St. Polk City, IA 50226.

• By calling City Hall at 515-984-6233

Start Smart Move and Play

This is an introductory program focused on developing fine and gross motor skills for children 2-3 years old. Developing these motor skills in a safe, fun, and age appropriate environment will ensure that participants gain strength and confidence in their body. It will also help them get exercise and physical activity. Finally, developing these skills will help a child’s ability to do more complex skills in future activities, whether it’s playing a sport, doing school projects, or drawing/painting. Parent interaction is required.

Registration Deadline: Tuesday, July 25

Ages: 2-3 yrs.

Days: Tuesday/Thursday

Dates: August 1-17

Time: 5-5:30PM

Cost: $25

Location: Polk City Library Activity Room Min/Max: 6/12

DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

People of Polk City, CONGRATULATIONS! We’ve made it through another harsh Iowa winter. Like clockwork, every spring we resurface and migrate to local parks, trails, and sports fields. I love seeing those first days of full bike racks and busy playgrounds. I’ve always considered Polk City and its immediate surroundings a slice of “recreation heaven.” My hope is that our Summer 2023 program brochure provides you with even more recreation opportunities to enjoy!

For the kiddos, check out all of our different day camps! Adults, put together a team and enjoy one (or more) of our COED sports leagues! At least 55 years young? Join us for a day of fun at the Iowa State Fair. Looking for something the whole family can enjoy? Check out our Movies in the Park, provided at no cost thanks to generous sponsors.

Next winter will be here before you know it. My advice? Make sure to enjoy this summer and “recreation heaven” as much as you can!

Jason Thraen Parks & Recreation Director

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Summer Fun Camp (7 - 9 yrs.)

Join us for an action-packed week of summer fun! Participants will enjoy field trips with destinations including an aquatic center, indoor and outdoor activity centers, and much more!

Participants will also have fun playing & learning games and activities in Polk City parks. Campers will be notified prior to the start of camp of Monday’s activity to prepare accordingly.

Participants will be transported by Parks & Recreation staff during camp.

*When registering, please note there are two sessions of this program.*

Registration Deadline: Mon., May 29

Ages: 7-9 yrs.

Days: Monday-Friday

Dates: June 5-9

Time: 12:30-4:30PM

Cost: $110

Location: Miller Park

Registration Deadline: Mon., June 12

Ages: 7-9 yrs.

Days: Monday-Friday

Dates: June 19-23

Time: 12:30-4:30PM

Cost: $110

Location: Miller Park

Min/Max: 20/26

Summer Fun Camp (10 - 12 yrs.)

Join us for an action-packed week of summer fun! Participants will enjoy field trips with destinations including an aquatic center, indoor and outdoor activity centers, and much more!

Participants will also have fun playing & learning games and activities in Polk City parks. Campers will be notified prior to the start of camp of Monday’s activity to prepare accordingly.

Participants will be transported by Parks & Recreation staff during camp.

*When registering, please note there are two sessions of this program.*

Registration Deadline: Mon., June 5

Ages: 10-12 yrs.

Days: Monday-Friday

Dates: June 12-16

Registration Deadline: Mon., June 19

Ages: 10-12 yrs.

Days: Monday-Friday

Dates: June 26-30

Polk City has several organizations offering youth sports opportunities throughout the year.

For more information, click on the organization’s logo!

YOUTH PROGRAMS

All-Star Sports Camp

Explore a plethora of different sports with our All-Star Sports Camp! Each day we’ll learn and play a variety of different sports and activities such as: soccer, dodgeball, volleyball, basketball, kickball, capture the flag, and many more!

*Please note different age groups when registering.*

Registration Deadline: Mon., July 3

Ages: 5-7 yrs.

Days: Monday-Friday

Dates: July 10-14

Time: 8:30-11:30AM

Cost: $50

Location: Sports Complex

Min/Max: 16/24

Registration Deadline: Mon., July 10

Ages: 8-11 yrs.

Days: Monday-Friday

Dates: July 17-21

Time: 8:30-11:30AM

Cost: $50

Location: Sports Complex

Min/Max: 16/24

History Detectives w/ Big Creek Historical Society

History Detectives wanted! Discover the facts behind the 1883 Bandstand on the Polk City Square using old records, books, and interviews. Use your findings to create a museum display for the Four Seasons Festival! Celebrate with birthday cake for the bandstand- 140 years! Led by Roxana Currie, local author.

Registration Deadline: Thursday, July 6

Ages: 9-12 yrs.

Days: Tuesday

Dates: July 11

Time: 1-4PM

Cost: $15

Location: Big Creek Historical Society

Min/Max: 4/12

Polk City Little League

North Polk United Soccer Club

North Polk Sports Camps

mission is to enhance , grow, and promote Polk City’s parks, trails, and greenspaces for the benefit of the entire community.

To learn more or get involved, scan the QR code below.

Art in the Park

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Calling all artists! Join us as we create a variety of masterpieces throughout the week! Artists will also work together on a group project to be displayed in a city building. Things will get messy throughout the week, so make sure to wear appropriate clothing!

*Please note different age groups when registering.*

Registration Deadline: Mon., July 24

Ages: 5-7 yrs.

Days: Monday-Friday

Dates: July 31-August 4

Time: 1-4PM

Cost: $60

Location: Miller Park

Min/Max:

Registration Deadline: Mon., July 31

Ages: 8-11 yrs.

Days: Monday-Friday

Dates: August 7-11

Time: 1-4PM

Cost: $60

Location: Miller Park

Introduction to Pickleball

Come learn all about Pickleball, the fastest growing sport in the country! Join instructors from Lifetime Pickleball for this introductory class covering the basics of the game, scoring, and just what the heck the kitchen is! Age appropriate instruction will guarantee a positive and fun experience for all. Equipment will be provided, or feel free to bring your own!

*When registering, please note there are two sessions of this program.*

Registration Deadline: Tues., June 13

Ages: 9-12 yrs.

Days: Tuesday/Thursday

Dates: June 20 & 22

Time: 10:30-11:30AM

Cost: $24

Location: Miller Park

Min/Max: 4/8

Registration Deadline: Tues., July 11

Ages: 9-12 yrs.

Days: Tuesday/Thursday

Dates: July 18 & 20

Time: 10:30-11:30AM4:30PM

Cost: $24

Location: Miller Park

Min/Max: 4/8

RED BALL

Polk City Parks & Recreation is excited to partner with Lifetime Tennis to offer youth tennis lessons again for 2023! Skill level will range from beginner to more advanced tennis skills and strategies.

In the event of inclement weather, the first instance will be made up the Friday of your session. Any additional instances will be moved indoors to Lifetime’s facility in Urbandale.

Three sessions will be available:

- Session 1 (June 12-15)

- Session 2 (June 26-29)

- Session 3 (July 10-13)

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Players learn the basic elements of tennis through a combination of techniques and partner based activities to develop hand/eye coordination, motor skills, and sending/receiving the ball. Competition is introduced. The use of specially designed equipment and professional instruction offer an age appropriate, positive, and fun experience.

Registration Deadline: Monday Prior to Session Start

Ages: 3-7 yrs.

Days: Monday-Thursday

Dates: See Session Dates

Time: 9-10AM

Cost: $64

Location: Miller Park

Min/Max: 4/6

ORANGE BALL

Players refine their stroke mechanics and consistency. They continue to work on balance and footwork. Competition is emphasized more, including the basic strategic concepts of singles and doubles play. Equipment and instruction ensure a positive and fun environment.

Registration Deadline: Monday Prior to Session Start

Ages: 8-10 yrs.

Days: Monday-Thursday

Dates: See Session Dates

Time: 10-11AM

Cost: $72

Location: Miller Park Min/Max: 4/8

GREEN BALL towards players capable of maintaining a consistent rally on a full court. presented in a more detailed manner. Movement, court coverage, and strategic competitive play are developed even further.

Registration Deadline: Monday Prior to Session Start

Thursday

See Session Dates 12:30PM

Miller Park

YELLOW BALL (Development)

Players in the initial levels of Development will be introduced to stroke mechanics and transition to refinement of these strokes. As players advance through the levels of Development, more advanced techniques with a larger array of shots will be addressed with the focus of implementing match play strategies.

Registration Deadline: Monday Prior to Session Start

Thursday

See Session Dates 12:30PM

Cost: $108

Location: Miller Park Min/Max: 4/8

ADULT PROGRAMS

@ 515-984-6233 or jthraen@polkcityia.gov.

Rest & Restore Yoga

Start your week with a yoga session that relaxes your mind and soothes frayed nerves. Sometimes called Yin Yoga, this style embraces the practice of slowing down, opening up, and allowing calm and creation to play. Poses are still and held with ease. As the mind, body and soul connects, you will leave feeling ready for a gentle night’s sleep yet refreshed for the week ahead! Blocks, bolsters, and a small blanket or towel recommended. Perfect for all levels!

Registration Deadline: Monday, April 3

Ages: 18 years and older

Days: Monday

Dates: April 10-May 15

Time: 7-8PM

Cost: $90

Location: Miller Park Shelter

Min/Max: 6/10 Spring Bags League

Spring means warmer weather is coming and our spring bags league is back! We’ll follow a 7 week regular season with a double elimination tournament to crown our champions! Each week your team of two will play 3 games to 21. Registrants must sign up as a team; individuals will not be taken. Only one member per team needs to register.

Registration Deadline: Thursday, April 27

Ages: 18 years and older

Days: Thursday

Dates: May 4-June 22

Time: 6-9PM

Cost: $35

Location: American Legion Post 232

Min/Max: 8/16 TEAMS

COED Sand Volleyball

BUMP, SET, and SPIKE your way into our 6 on 6 COED volleyball league! League will consist of regular season play followed by a single elimination tournament. This is a self officiated league. Registrants must sign up as a team; individuals will not be taken. Only one member per team needs to register. All players must sign team roster.

Registration Deadline: Tuesday, May 30

Ages: 18 years and older

Days: Tuesday

Dates: June 6-July 25

Time: 6-10PM

Cost: $100

Location: Kiwanis Park

Min/Max: 6/8 TEAMS

515-984-6233 / www.polkcityia.gov

Share your talents and skills with your community! Polk City Parks & Recreation is always looking to offer new and different programs. Please contact Jason

Are you or someone you know a group fitness instructor? If so, LET'S TALK! Polk City Parks & Rec is looking to offer more evening adult fitness classes, but first we need some rock star instructors! If interested, please contact Jason @ 515-984-6233 or jthraen@polkcityia.gov.

Introduction to Pickleball

ADULT PROGRAMS

Have you heard about Pickleball? It’s only the fastest growing sport in the United States! Join instructors from Lifetime Pickleball for this introductory class covering the basics of the game, scoring, and the importance of staying out of the kitchen! Equipment will be provided. *When registering, please note there are two sessions of this program.*

Registration Deadline: Tues., June 13

Ages: 18 years and older

Days: Tuesday/Thursday

Dates: June 20 & 22

Time: 9-10:30AM

Cost: $36

Location: Miller Park

Min/Max: 4/8

Registration Deadline: Tues., July 11

Ages: 18 years and older

Days: Tuesday/Thursday

Dates: July 18 & 20

Time: 9-10:30AM-4:30PM

Cost: $36

Location: Miller Park

Min/Max: 4/8

COED Adult Softball

BATTER UP! We ll play a 7 game regular season followed by a double elimination tournament. This league is self officiated. Registrants must sign up as a team; individuals will not be taken. Only one member per team needs to register. All players must sign team roster.

Registration Deadline: Friday, June 30

Ages: 18 years and older

Days: Sunday

Dates: July 9-August 27

Time: 2-6PM

Cost: $200

Location: Sports Complex

Min/Max: 6/8 TEAMS

Vinyasa Freedom Flow Yoga

This popular yoga class pairs movement with breath to enhance strength, endurance, and state of mind. With positive vibes, good energy, and the freedom to go at your own pace, this class offers plenty of benefits; from heart-health to flexibility, reduced stress to improved core, and so much more. Come join us and find balance in your mind, body & spirit! All levels welcome.

Registration Deadline: Wednesday, July 5

Ages: 18 years and older

Days: Wednesday

Dates: July 12-August 16

Time: 7-8PM

Cost: $90

Location: Miller Park Shelter

Min/Max: 6/10

515-984-6233 / www.polkcityia.gov

Check out these senior programs offered at the Polk City Community Library!

Mondays @ 9AM, Geri-Fit

Tuesdays @ 9AM, Chair Yoga

Wednesdays @ 9AM, Ageless Grace

Wednesdays @ 10AM, Women’s Coffee

Thursdays @ 6PM, Sit ‘n Stitch

Fridays @ 10AM, Men’s Coffee

SENIOR PROGRAMS

Senior Social Hour (or 2)

Come join fellow Polk City seniors for a “social hour” of food and fun! Participants will decide what each week looks like. Cards and games, check! Donuts and coffee, you bet! Potluck style lunch, BON APPETIT! If you are interested, please email jthraen@polkcityia.gov or call Jason at 515-984-6233 for more information.

Ages: 55 years and older

Days: Tuesdays

Dates: Ongoing

Time: 11AM-1PM

Location: Miller Park Shelter House

Polk City Cemetery Tour w/ Big Creek Historical Society

We’ll have tales about residents who built the town - and a few will tell their own stories! Educational and entertaining, optional lunch in town afterwards for continued discussion. Parks & Recreation staff will transport participants. Includes walking, some on uneven terrain, with no restrooms. Please bring money for optional lunch.

Registration Deadline: Tuesday, June 20

Ages: 55 years and older

Days: Tuesday

Dates: June 27

Time: 9-11AM

Cost: $10

Location: Depart from Polk City Square

Min/Max: 8/24

Lunch at 209 Main

Iowa is full of small town, hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving mouthwatering food. Join us for lunch as we travel to 209 Main in Paton. Home of the “Tool Bar,” 209 Main is a steak housestyle restaurant specializing in fresh, contemporary American fare. Registration includes transportation. Please bring money for your lunch.

Registration Deadline: Friday, July 21

Ages: 55 years and older

Days: Friday

Dates: July 28

Time: 10AM-2PM

Cost: $8

Location: Depart from Miller Park Min/Max: 8/13

Older Iowans Day at the Iowa State Fair

Has it been ages since you’ve seen the butter cow? When was the last time you enjoyed a corndog and a refreshing state fair lemonade? Then join us at the 2023 Iowa State Fair and have one of your “best days ever!” Don’t worry about fighting traffic, we’ll drop you off inside the gates! Fee includes admission and transportation.

Registration Deadline: Wednesday, August 9

Ages: 55 years and older

Days: Wednesday

Dates: August 16

Time: 8AM-3PM

Cost: $18

Location: Depart from Miller Park Min/Max: 8/13

515-984-6233 / www.polkcityia.gov

SPECIAL EVENTS

Miller Park Shelter House

Kiwanis Park Shelter

RECENT HAPPENINGS

Lost Lake Park Playground and Gaga-Ball Pit Installation

Photo Release

Polk City Parks and Recreation may record or take photos of participants enrolled in activities, programs, and special events

These photos and/or recordings may be used for future Polk City Parks and Recreation promotional material.

Beebe Cemetery Renovations