SNELLVILLE — There's plenty going on at T.W. Briscoe Park this fall as Parks and Recreation officials are offering creative ways to keep visitors and Senior Center members engaged and safe during these days of COVID-19.
"We are in unprecedented times and all of us have had to make major adjustments in our daily lives," said Snellville Parks and Recreation Director Lisa A Platt. "Snellville Parks and Recreation has felt this shift deeply as our ability to give our citizens the 'normal' programming we have done in the past has not been possible. We are here to serve our residents and visitors by providing mental, physical and spiritual outlets. We have struggled to balance our desire to help/connect with our patrons and following CDC and state guidelines to keep all safe. We will continue to be creative and resourceful in offering safe, but engaging programs to our citizens."
Tomorrow there will be a women's singles tennis tournament from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. under the supervision of tennis instructor Anthony Evans. All four courts will be utilized for the tournament.
A free Intro to Tennis clinic will take place each Tuesday for six weeks beginning Nov. 10 until Dec. 15. The one-hour classes begin at 9:30 a.m. Space is limited so call the park at 770-985-3535 by Nov. 3 to sign up. Bring a tennis racket, a towel and water.
Also tomorrow, aside from the usual youth soccer programming, there will be a small 6-team adult softball tournament hosted by a group raising money for funeral costs for a friend who lost their son in a drowning incident.
For more information on any of these programs call the Park Office at 770-985-3535.
The Snellville Senior Center has been closed since March due to Coronavirus, but that hasn't stopped programs from being offered for active older adults.
There is a Modern Fluid Art Class from 1 to 3 p.m. Nov. 10 at the Briscoe Park Office. Cost is $15, supplies and snacks are included. After the class, budding artists can take home two 8-by-10-inch abstract art paintings. Mask use and social distancing guidelines will be in effect. Space is limited, so sign up by Nov. 4.
The popular Outdoor Exercise programs are ongoing through December. Aerobics classes are at 9 a.m. Monday and Thursdays at Briscoe Park in the parking lot near the softball field. During the class, seniors will be led through a fun and stimulating exercise routine by professional exercise instructors. The Sole Buster Walkers Walking Club meets at 9 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays in the same parking lot for a brisk walk through the parks winding trails. For more information on both classes call the Senior Center at 770-985-3580.
Seniors are also encouraged to take part in the Gingerbread House Photo Contest. You can make your own or get family and friends to help you create your gingerbread from your own home. Simply send in two photos (front and back) no later than Dec 1. and Senior Center staff post them all on their Facebook page. First, second and third-place awards will be offered. Either mail photos to the Senior Center at 2350 Oak Road or send them via email to tglass@snellville.org.
"Since we've had such a great response to our outdoor exercise classes, we have added a few other programs that are sure to be a success," said Kathi Gargiulo, Senior Program Supervisor at the Snellville Senior Center. "Between our free tennis clinic, modern art painting class and Gingerbread House contest, we're hoping that our senior community will get involved so they can stay active and healthy. That's what it's all about."
A Senior Center Membership is required to participate in senior events. Membership cost is $25 for Gwinnett County Residents and $15 for Snellville City Limit Residents and is good through December 2021.