Coombs Fair Kids Workshops
In partnership with the Arrowsmith Agricultural Association, ACRA hosted a Fine Arts workshop on July 8th for children ages eight to twelve. The intention of this workshop series is to encourage children to try new activities that can be entered into the Coombs Fair. The last date of the pilot series provided an introduction to paper collaging, and many of their creations were later displayed at the Coombs Fair. The majority of the dates were selected to line up with Pro-D days to provide parents with a fun, hands-on child care opportunity.
Growing Wild Summer Camp
Held July 15th – 19th, this year’s summer camp welcomed nineteen children between the ages of eight and thirteen. The majority of campers were returning for the second, third or even fourth summer in a row. Special guests from the Arrowsmith Naturalists came to share information about the identification of local plant and insect species. Parksville & District Rock & Gem taught the group how to wire wrap stone pendants. Silver Spur Riding Club visited with two horses, and the children had the opportunity to learn horse facts, groom them, and feed them carrots. The campers also enjoyed a wide range of gym games, crafts, science experiments, and collaborative activities. This summer, two children were sponsored by Sole Sisters Walking donations.
Coombs Fair
Once again, ACRA was asked to oversee the Kids Zone at the Coombs Fair. This year’s activity corner included two bouncy castles, a bouncy obstacle course, a dunk tank, a craft area, and an educational scavenger hunt. This year’s theme animal was the cow, and many of the activities and crafts were focused on this animal. This was the first time in several years that a dunk tank was present at the Fair. It was a great way for fairgoers to cool down in the peak of the afternoon heat and was particularly popular among the 4-H youth who were present over the entire day. The Fair is two nine-hour days, and it is a challenge finding sufficient volunteer support to cover the event. ACRA usually asks volunteers to come in for three- or four-hour shifts, which means that full-day events take a significant crew of volunteers. This summer, two student leaders were hired to support the recreation team and community volunteers. This contributed to a smooth-running event.
"Hi Neighbour" Day Festival
“Hi Neighbour” Day is the home of the tallest zucchini ramp in the Oceanside area, and it’s always a delight to see the zucchini racers zooming towards victory. This year, there were over sixty contestants in the race. The recreation coordinators were pleased to be able to support this Errington Hall event by helping the children construct their vehicles in the morning and overseeing the registration booth. There are both children and adult categories
Sole Sisters Walking
Sole Sisters Walking began their season on September 11th with thirty-three walkers meeting in the main parking lot at Rathtrevor Beach. They enjoyed a beautiful walk through the forest and took in views ocean waves and sandy shores. This program continues to be one of ACRA’s most popular. The group was very pleased to welcome two new leaders: April and Anne.
Bodyweight Strength & Balance
This new adult fitness program launched at Meadowood on September 17th. Led by Sandra Poelzer, the program is a fun and energizing total body workout for all fitness levels. The exercises utilize bodyweight exclusively (no equipment) and includes a mixture of floorwork and standing exercises. Participants will work their core, improve balance, and challenge themselves with cardio.