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1997 End of Year THE FOLLOWING IS A REPORT ON THE RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS SPONSORED BY THE TOWN OF WAPPINGER RECREATION COMMITTEE. THE REPORT IS PREPARED TO PRESENT THE STATISTICAL AND ORGANIZATIONAL INFORMATION TO THOSE THAT ARE VIT ALL Y INTERESTED IN THE ACTIVITIES CARRIED OUT BY THE COMMITTEE 1997 TOWN OF WAPPINGER RECREATION COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN Ralph J. Holt MEMBERS James Chappas Joseph Ennesser Ronald Friedman Barbara Gutzler Ellen Korz Stephen Miller DIRECTOR Gerald diPiemo SENIOR CITIZEN DIRECTOR Kathi DeLisa SECRETARY Peggy Roe MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR Steve Tompkins TOWN OF WAPPINGER TOWN BOARD SUPERVISOR Constance O. Smith MEMBERS Vincent Bettina Joseph Ruggiero Robert Val dati June Visconti TOWN CLERK Elaine H. Snowden 2 1997 ANNUAL PROGRAM REPORT PROGRAMS: GirlsIBoys Basketball Winter and Summer 7-12 years old GirlslBoys Gymnastics Winter 7-12 years old Adult Volleyball Myers Comers School Summer Adult Volleyball Outdoor Tennis Men's Open Basketball Schlathaus Race SummerlWinter Concerts Christmas Tree Lighting Women's Aerobics Halloween Party Radio City Trips Summer Program (Bigger than ever) Senior Citizen Program 3 GIRLS/BOYS BASKETBALL - WINTER 7 - 12 YEAR OLDS This program was scheduled for Saturday mornings at Sheafe Road School. The instruction period was to be approximately 10 weeks from January through March, 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Normally a popular program which has been run very well with solid attendance from week to week, we had some difficulty in providing a Director. Tom Fisher helped us to get started and then gave way to Joe Fanuele who finished the program. The attendance was spotty at first then picked up and as a result we had a: reasonable program. A $15.00 fee was charged for each participant. GIRLS/BOYS GYMNASTICS - WINTER 7 - 12 YEAR OLDS This program was held at the Myers Corners School every Saturday morning from 10 a.m. to 12 noon starting January 11 th through May 10th. The instructors for this program were Art Goldner and Brenda Peura with assistance from several aides. The registration was high, approximately 80 youngsters. As in the case with Boys and Girls Basketball, emphasis in this program is on fundamentals and attitudes toward developing an appreciation of the sport. A $15.00 fee was charged. Due to a very snowy winter, there were numerous cancellations, but time was made up by extending the program into May. GIRLS/BOYS BASKETBALL - SUMMER 7 - 12 YEAR OLDS This one week clinic held at John Jay High School July 14th to July 18th from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. The instructors were Rebecca Faulds, Carter Cole and Erik Sims who did an excellent job with the 38 registered participants. A $15.00 fee was charged for this program which emphasizes 4 fundamentals. I recommend the instructors to run this program again in 1998 if they are available. ADULT VOLLEYBALL PROGRAM - MYERS CORNERS SCHOOL This program began in October 1996 and continued through April 1997 meeting every Tuesday evening from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. at Myers Corners School gymnasium. The sessions were directed by Walter Leczinski. Approximately 50 people registered. Each week the group met in the gym where two nets were used simultaneously to accommodate everyone. A $15.00 registration fee was charged. One of our most consistent programs, Walter does an outstanding job of keeping it stable and enjoyable to all participants. SUMMER ADULT VOLLEYBALL The popular activity, outdoor sand court volleyball, continued to draw many players. A three net court has been constructed by our Recreation Maintenance crew on a site adjacent to the Barn on Montfort Road and Pye Lane. Many improvements were made at the site, including new, better quality sand, fencing and parking facilities. Walter Leczinski directs this program which got off the ground in June 1997 and continued until October. A large contingent of "regulars" showed up each Thursday night and we expect to continue this program during the summer of 1998. MEN'S OPEN BASKETBALL Once again this program was forced to cut back hours due to school activities. We also had problems putting in place a director. The program did begin as scheduled in October 1997 and will continue into February 1998 with a number of different adults attending to its administration. 5 Informal games are played each Wednesday evening, most often utilizing two half courts. A $15.00 fee is charged. OUTDOOR TENNIS This program which began in June, was run in the same manner as it has over the last few years. The emphasis was placed on Summer Clinics with the main part ofthe summer open to the residents for open play. The Town Tennis Program under the direction of Barry Casowitz officially ended in the month of August. The overall clinics and instructional programs for the greater part of the Summer were also coordinated by Barry. He received many compliments from participants for his patience and expertise he exhibited in working with all age groups. Barry was assisted by Adam Rubin and Kaushik Mukerjee. A session for adults only was held during May for 4 weeks and proved to be popular. A $15.00 fee was charged. An attempt was made to schedule a tennis tournament for October 4 and 5 which had to be canceled because of the low registration. It was decided to try this again in 1998 and schedule it earlier with much more publicity put out early in the season. SCHLATHAUSRACE This was the 18th year for this event in the memory ofMr. & Mrs. George Schlathaus and was held at Schlathaus Park. The race consisted of two parts-- one for a 5K adult race and the other a 1 mile race for the youngsters. This year we had about 53 adult participants both men and women in five different divisions for the SK race. The mile race for the young people had about 32 participants. The winners in the adult race received trophies in 6 different classes and metals for 6 2nd and 3rd place, while the youngsters received medals and all the youngsters win or lose received a small pumpkin in keeping with the Halloween season. The race will continue to grow in interest and many are looking forward to 1998. This is a key race because it provides the many local distance runners a tune up race for longer races held during the fall months. The race director who helped coordinate the event with the Town is Linda Stow, who represents the Mid Hudson Road Runners Club, the Co-sponsor of this race. WINTER/SUMMER CONCERTS The summer concert series started this year on June 19 at 7:00 p.m. with the "Jazz Knights" from U.S.M.A. at West Point. A large crowd was on hand for this popular group. The rest of the concerts at Schlathaus Park were "Switch -in-Time" (Big Band), "The Phantoms" ('50's and Top 40), "Wild East" (Country), "Wood's Tea Company" (Folk Trio), "Nite Life" (Top 40), "Sonny Carrol Orchestra and Peter Spink Ensemble. The concert scheduled for July 24th with the "Final T ouch" was rained out and we were unable to reschedule it. All of the concerts were well attended, in fact we had the best turn out ever. The U. S. Military Academy Concert Band has accepted an invitation to perform at Roy C. Ketcham on April 17, 1998. CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY This year's tree lighting ceremony and party was held on December 7, 1997. A large crowd turned out with the weather cool and crisp. "Hearts Desire" (an accapella group)provided the entertainment and Supervisor Connie Smith pulled the switch to light the giant Christmas Tree. The New Hackensack Fire Company then delivered Santa Claus via truck whereby he talked to 7 each child and gave out trinkets, candy canes and apples. The Committee provided hot chocolate, hot apple cider, coffee and doughnuts. The Town Little League and the Wappinger United Soccer League gave out candy treats. A large tent canopy provided shelter to the many volunteers who served refreshments and helped make the evening a success. AEROBICS Beginning in October and running into April, our aerobic program was held every Tuesday and Thursday evening 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Wappingers Jr. High School. This program was very well attended--approximately 30 people.. A $15.00 fee was charged for each participant. The program was under the direction of Patricia "DJ" Reese who did an outstanding job, drawing praise from many participants. During the second half of the program the Director "D.J." had an automobile accident and for the rest of the program we used several substitutes. Everyone is hoping she is able to return in October of 1997. HALLOWEEN PARTY The 1 Oh Annual Halloween Party was held at Schlathaus Park on Sunday afternoon October 26th. The weather was cold and damp which probably held the crowd down from last year's huge crowd. Prizes were awarded in various categories judged by Supervisor Connie Smith, Town Clerk Elaine Snowden and Sylvia Holt. There was also a pumpkin carving contest. Refreshments served included cider, apples and doughnuts. Prizes were donated by Wendy's, Dunkin Donuts, Home Town Buffet, Shop Rite, Taco Bell, Ben & Jerry's, McDonalds, Fun Central, Hoe Bowl Holiday, Carvel, Party City, Subway, and Renegades. Little League gave out popcorn to all the 8 children. "Beetle juice" of Let Us Entertain You provided the entertainment. The entire program proved to be a big hit. Committee Member Ellen Korz is to be commended for an outstanding job in organizing the event and securing the prizes from local businesses. For the 5th consecutive year, the house at Schlathaus was prepared as a "Haunted" House for children to tour before the parade of costumes. Committee Member Barbara Gutzler, Ron Friedman and Jim Chappas and Karen Swanson did a fantastic job at preparing the house and carrying out the spooking. Also helping that day at the House were Senior Citizen Director Kathi DeLisa, Jimmy and Michael Chappas and Sean deSa. Others that helped that day were Joe and Eileen Ennesser, Carol Boss, Ralph Holt, Peggy Roe and Gerry diPierno. The Senior Citizen oil painting class did a super job in decorating lunch bags with spooky scenes for the donated prizes which were handed out to each child attending. EASTER/CHRISTMAS SHOW For the 4rd consecutive year, a trip was taken to Radio City to see the Easter Show on April 2nd. The trip was sold out. The trip was arranged so that time was allotted for people to shop, have lunch or sight see in the City before the show. One bus trip for Town residents to see the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall was arranged for Saturday, November 15th. The trip turned out to be a big success and we will attempt to continue these trips for 1998. There were a number of inquiries for a second trip during the week for the Christmas Show. We will see about reinstating this trip for 1998. With our present environment, we can expect to see a greater need for recreational 9 outlets. Overall, the participation in our programs has been growing. We will continue to monitor the attendance in all of our activities and make adjustments to them or add new ones as this attendance dictates. 2/98 In the absence of a Director this report was prepared by Peggy Roe 10 GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR NEXT YEAR 1. Continue to explore land options for playing fields for soccer or softball 2. Continue to upgrade the softball fields at Castle Point and continue to develop Summer playground facilities (y.Iater, rest rooms and storage building.) 3. Explore land options for rollerblading. 4. Look into coordinating some summer playground special activities with Senior Citizens 5. Explore possibility of a trip to see the Mets or to Yankee Stadium, F oxwood Casino, Saratoga or Eisenhower Hall, West Point, or an ice show at Hartfort Ct.. 6. Continue exploring alternative sites for the Hughsonville Playground possibly the Rymer Property . 7. Continue to explore methods for improving playground registration to ensure more efficient supervision during the first week. 11 . . TOWN OF WAPPINGER SUMMER DAY CAMP PROGRAM 1997 REPORT Maureen D. Irvin Summer Program Director SUMMER PROGRAM DIRECTOR: Maureen D. Irvin CASTLE POINT - (HOSTED AT JAMES EVANS) Director: Heather Keenan Counselors: Jason Birchard, Sean Cahill, Jennifer Gonnan, Courtney McDonnell, Jackie Smith HUGHSONVILLE Director Una Horan Counselors: Yeman Taouil, Christopher Miller, Christopher Propfe, Meridith Cullen, Meghan Lalor, Carolyn Hemingway, Shannon Martin MARTZ FIELD Directors Christina Helfiich, Katie Cwiakala Counselors: Jason Jutt, Michael Jutt, Jennifer Hall, Keith Tucker, Erin Fitzgerald, Eric Birchard, Danielle Donavan, Diane Parasella QUIET ACRES Director: Keri Speary Counselors: Eric Kedzielawa, Rob Allen, Kim Allen, Sarah Woogen, Hope Donohue, Lois Ray Lauren Smith ROBINSON LANE Director: Dana Bennett Counselors: Robin Pezanowski, Irving Walker" Andrea Mazzeo, Steven Brooks, Jessica Saz, Clare Rottkamp SPOOK HILL Director: Lisa DeFelice Counselors: Kristen Smith, Lisa Birchard, Christopher Biasotti, Matt Paino, Nora Bitting, Christian Poluse, Kevin Horan, Erica Wolfe SWIM PROGRAM WSI: Heather Williams, Brian Glendenning Instructor: Shannon Bray Lifeguard: Joseph Sottile TOWN OF WAPPINGER SUMMER DAY CAMP PROGRAM The 1997 summer day camp program ran for seven weeks, beginning on Wednesday June 24th and ending on Thursday, August 12th. The six camps, Evans, Hughsonville, Martz Field, quiet Acres, Robinson Lane and Spook Hill were open daily from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm. The total number of children registered was 749. The average daily attendance was 330. Participants were charged for the camp program only. The charge was $15.00 for the first child and $10.00 for each additional child in the family. TOWN OF WAPPINGER SWIM CAMP PROGRAM The swim program was held at Deer Hill Conference Center and ran for seven weeks. Each of the six camps received its own five days of lessons. The swim program was made available to all town residents. The camp staff met the swimmers at Wappingers Junior High School and then accompanied them to the pool. The camp staff provided supervision and activities for those children not in the pool. The camps were closed while the lessons were in session. PLANNED EVENTSITRlPS Each camp attended the following trips for the summer of 1997: *five to seven trips to Splashdown *Fun Central *Discovery Zone *HoeBowl 380 children attended the end of the year picnic at Schlathaus Park. Activities that were held at the individual camps are discussed in more detail in each camp' s summary. A Philharmonics presentation was tentatively planned but was canceled due to a misunderstanding with the Philharmonics and a lack of interest by the counselors and children. I tried to schedule R&R Express but there were limited spaces and Mr. DiPiemo decided to wait until next year. It was mentioned in the 1996 year end report that R&R Express was very well received so it would be nice to see that program available next year. PLANNED EVENTSnRIPS (CONT'D) Scheduling seemed to be a real problem this year. Discovery Zone did not seem to know when we were coming. Wappingers Central School District's Department of Transportation was not very reliable. They allowed more than the legal limit of persons on a bus, showed up late to take campers to and/or from a location, or never showed up at all. They claimed they were not always notified of changes. Many phone calls had to be made by directors and myself. Although I phoned every morning to verifY the scheduled trips for that day and number of buses going, there were still quite a few mishaps. As a result, campers missed out on time spent at their trip destinations. Some, not all, bus drivers were rude to our directors through their verbal communication and by leaving half a camp behind to wait for a bus that may never show up. Directors and counselors were very dissatisfied with trips this year as well as children and parents. Aside from the transportation problems, the main complaint was lack of organization. Discovery Zone did not always know when camps were coming and charged each camp a different rate. In past years, aU the camps went to Splashdown on the same day. This was beneficial in many ways: it was always on the same day of the week, it enabled the summer director to meet with the directors aU at once, Splashdown did not schedule many other camps that day. This year Splashdown was often overbooked and required our counselors to pay half-price. They have also stated that counselors (and anyone else visiting the park) will be charged full price next year. I would recommend that we cut our trips to Splashdown in half next year, have aU camps go on the same day, and pay for the staff A lot of time is spent/wasted the day of a trip with collecting money, counting children, waiting for extra buses if one is not enough, and holding up buses because a child is arriving as the camp is departing. I believe a partial solution to this dilemma is for the Town ofWappingers to require children to sign up for trips a week in advance. This way, we would know how many children were going, the money would be collected ahead of time, and it would be definite on whether one bus or two were required. Sign-ups for each trip would end two days before the trip so that money can be brought to Discovery Zone, Hoe Bowl, etc. the day prior to the trip and bracelets for entry can be brought back to the camps ahead of time. This way children would not be waiting to be let in until all the money was counted and bracelets would be handed out prior to leaving camp. New Activities that the camps would like to see added next year include: movies, roller-skating, llama farm (in Rhinebeck). Children's Museum, Dutchess County Airport, Yankees or Mets baseball game, Museum of Natural History, entertainment at Schlathaus, and visiting other camps. Although some of these suggestions may not be within our means, others are definitely worth considering. GAMES/SUPPLIESIEQUIPMENT The directors' recommendations for additions to our inventory of games include more Connect Four games, checkers, playing cards, Scrabble, Sorry and other assorted board games. Equipment recommendations included parachutes anqadjustable basketball hoops. Spookhill requested one or two more tables. Art supplies are alWays in big demand. I would recommend that we have a surplus of checkers, lanyard, embroidery string (for friendship bracelets) and beads on hand. More storage containers were purchased this year, so existing supplies should be in good shape. The cenular phones worked out great this year. The only problem was getting them in time for the start of camp. Brian Moody of Mobile Concepts was very helpful and lent us his own phone temporarily. The return of the cellular phones needs to be more prompt after the camps close for the year. SAFETY The Safety Plan for the summer program was rewritten for 1997 and each area director received a copy to be kept in hislher file box. In 1997, the opportunity was provided for several staff members to become certified in CPR and RTE, free of charge to them, in order to enable us to meet the requirements set by the board of health and to assure proper safety for coverage at each locations. The American Red Cross held these classes at Schlathaus Park. Each course was taught in one day and the exam was given immediately after. This created some problems because the trainees were not given adequate time to go. over the amount of intense material required to pass such an exam. Some people did not pass the first time and had to retake it. We had difficulty providing coverage at each camp until enough personnel had passed the exam. WATER The Hughsonville and Castle Point (Evans) playground were supplied with bottled water, as there was not available source of running water at either locations. Castle Point will have running water available for the summer of 1998 since all renovations should be completed by then. As in the past, Hughsonville needs to have plenty of water available for drinking and cleaning. . CLEANLINESS There was a misunderstanding as to who cleans the bathrooms throughout the summer and, as a result, no-one was cleaning the bathrooms. With the exception of Robinson Lane (a cleaning person is hired to specifically clean the bathrooms) the responsibility of cleaning the bathrooms falls on the camp staff. I suggested to each director that a list be posted assigning two counselors to clean the bathrooms at the end of each day as well as check them periodically throughout the day. This was enforced by some directors and not by others. Some of the campers misuse the bathrooms, leaving wet toilet tissue all over the floors, in the toilets, on the walls. This caused many toilets to get "backed up" and Maintenance had to be called numerous times as a result. I would recommend that it be required for all directors to post a list assigning counselors to the responsibility of checking and cleaning the bathrooms each day. END OF THE YEAR PICNIC The end of the year picnic is an area that I believe needs a lot of work. It requires a certain amount of time and preparation to bring together six camps for an enjoyable day. Many complain that it is boring, some counselors work very hard, while others do very little, lip sync is always too long, transportation, once again, is an issue. Shop Rite was a tremendous help this year, I recommend that we work with John, from maintenance, again next year. The Recreation staff and council members were terrific with the food preparation etc. Suggestions have been made that the Lip Sync Contest be held throughout the whole day so that at least three groups from each camp can participate. Another suggestion is cutting it down to two groups from each camp. The camp directors were in charge of choosing the three groups who performed at Schlathaus and that worked out well. Some parents become very involved in their children's participation of the Lip Sync and they can be very vocal in their opinions. This matter needs to be considered as well. I recommend that we form a committee consisting of at least one staff member from each camp so that all ideas are heard. The summer director would meet with this committee once a week (this would have to be worked out). GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS General staff attendance this year was good, however, I believe we should make attendance mandatory for the end of the year picnic. There are too many children and activities going on for counselors or directors to be absent. More in-depth training sessions should be held for all staff members prior to the start of camp each year. A separate training session should be held for all camp directors as well. Items to be addressed should include staff responsibilities and limitations, universal playground rules, discipline, safety plan, and new ideas for games and activities. It should be stressed that counselors should be actively participating with the campers throughout the day. Problems arose this past year with counselors playing cards with each other, or "hanging out". Not all were reprimanded by their director which caused some very uncomfortable situations. This is one of the reasons I believe it is mandatory that all camp directors attend a separate training session as well as the general one. Jennifer Fisher (1996 summer camp director) mentioned an overnight experience at Deer Hill that would provide the staffwith new ideas as well as bring them together as a group. Cost may have been an issue but she felt it would be a wonderful opportunity for the staff. Attendance should always be taken by name, in addition to total number of children, twice daily. This was not done. In 1997, as in the past, each staff member was responsible for a specific group of campers whose attendance records he/she was responsible for keeping. Although this method worked for those campers who reported when camp opened, it didn't work for those who came late or left early. I recommend that a counselor be on "attendance duty" throughout the day so parents know where to go during the day. We may want to consider having a sign-in station at each camp, run by two or three staff members. This way the other staff members would be available to occupy the campers who have already checked in. Check-in may take a little longer, but I believe it would be more orderly. Communication is a necessity with such a large program. Cell phones (preferably) or pagers need to be made available for the Director of Recreation and the Summer Program Director. Much time is wasted and more work is put on Peggy Roe (Recreation Secretary) due to limited communication. I recommend also that quarters be supplied for the directors of those camps with only pay phones. CASTLE POINT (hosted at J. Evans School) STAFF: Heather Keenan: Director Jason Birchard Sean Cahill Jennifer Gorman Courtney McDonnell Jackie Smith 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 Total Registration 52 Average Daily Attendance 36 Swim Program Attendance 29 91 39 21 61 31 27 57 30 27 76 42 27 Special Events included Pudding Wrestling, Olympics, International Food Day, Tree Planting, Water World Day, Tie-Dye Day, and a coloring contest Recommendations: Due to construction at Castle Point, the camp was housed at James Evans School for the summer of 1997. There was no running water, so regular delivery of water was a top priority. A cellular phone was rented since there was no reliable use of a phone at this location. Since the camp will be held at the newly renovated Castle Point Park, I believe these problems will be taken care of The staff of six was more than adequate for covering the number of campers who were in attendance daily. I believe attendance was down due to the change in location and that it will increase in 1998 once Castle Point is open. I recommend that we maintain the same number of employees at this location. HUGHSONVILLE STAFF: Una Horan Director Yeman Taouil Christopher Miller Christopher Propfe Meridith Cullen Shannon Martin Meghan Lalor Carolyn Hemingway 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 Total Registration 130 Average Daily Attendance 58 Swim Program Attendance 28 87 46 21 103 43 33 91 42 52 95 35 56 Special Events included Olympics, Dessert Day, Fiesta Day, Tie-Dye Day, Happy Meal Day, Drawing Contest, Talent Show, Halloween in August, Video Day, and Watermelon Day. Recommendations: There is currently no available source of running water at this location, so the regular delivery of bottled water should remain a top priority for 1998. A cellular phone was rented for use in 1996 and 1997 to alleviate the problems caused by our using the phone in the firehouse. I recommend that we rent the phone again. Problems with the firehouse were minimal this year. Items left behind by campers need to be stored in the truck bed and not left out on the tables. The pavilion and tables need to be cleaned at the close of camp each day. The staff of seven was quite adequate for covering the number of campers who were in daily attendance. I recommend that we maintain the same number of employees at this location. MARTZ FIELD STAFF Christine Helfrich Catherine (Katie) Cwiakala Eric Birchard Michael Jutt Jason Jutt Danielle Donavan Diane Parasella Jennifer Hall Keith Tucker Erin Fitzgerald Director Director 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 Total Registration 201 Average Daily Attendance 75 Swim Program Attendance 49 184 82 46 203 72 53 202 79 168 64 30 Special Events included Parachute Games, Dessert Day, Halloween in July, Tie-Dye Day, Line Dancing, and Video Day. Recommendations: Martz Field needs to continue to be patrolled after hours. Although there were no incidents this year, in years past campers have found drug paraphernalia which were left behind after camp hours. Several problems arose this year with the staff at Martz Field. I visited the camp daily, and on numerous occasions, staff members were found lounging around or playing cards with each other and possibly one or two campers. Although I spoke to the director (Christine) several times, campers were still found to be left unattended while some counselors visited with each other. Many of the other counselors tried to make up for the others lack of participation but the numbers at Martz Field as well as the layout of the camp are too vast. Many parents called to complain about Martz Field this year. As a result, Katie Cwiakala was appointed director as well. She worked mostly with the younger children and parents were quite pleased that the youngsters were being kept busy and wanted to go to camp. Still, some counselors refused to take their jobs seriously and after two warnings, Mr. DiPiemo chose to move four of them to other camps. Although these counselors were very upset with the move in the beginning, they came to realize that the other camps were run differently and that the other directors had certain expectations of them. In the end, all agreed that it was a good move but that it possibly could have been handled differently. Another concern at Martz Field this year was the freedom the campers had to come and go as they pleased. Although this is allowed, some campers would not sign-out either because they "didn't feel like it" or because they couldn't find their counselor. As a result, a counselor was stationed at the desk at all times so that campers could sign in and out throughout the day. Still, there are many exits at this camp that are not being monitored at aU times, and I am concerned about the town's liability if something should happen. I recommend that we consider not allowing children to leave on their own during camp hours without a parent/guardian. The staff of ten was quite adequate for covering the number of campers who were in daily attendance. I recommend that we maintain the same number of employees at this location. ROBINSON LANE STAFF: Dana Bennett Director Andrea Mazzeo Robin Pezanowski Steven Brooks Irving Walker Jessica Saz Clare Rottkamp 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 Total Registration 100 Average Daily Attendance 50 Swim Program Attendance 23 73 30 25 74 31 33 82 24 25 56 30 18 Special Events included Coloring Contests, Tie-Dye Day, Water Day, Halloween, Fiesta Day, Field Day, Happy Meal Day, and Dessert Day. Recommendations: The staff requested that a basketball hoop be added to the camp for next year. The staff of seven was more than adequate for covering the number of campers who were in attendance daily. I recommend that we have six employees at this location for 1998. STAFF: QUIET ACRES Keri Speary Director Sarah Woogen Hope. Donohue Eric Kedzielawa Rob Allen Lois Ray Lauren Smith Kim Allen 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 Total Registration 122 Average Daily Attendance 53 Swim Program Attendance 40 118 49 35 99 45 38 73 47 53 86 50 49 Special Events included Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Sundae Party, and Halloween in August. Recommendations: I recommend that this location continue to be patrolled after hours since this is a rather remote area. Graffiti and broken glass were found last year. The staff of eight was more than adequate for covering the number of campers who were in daily attendance. I recommend that we maintain only seven employees at this location for 1998. STAFF: SPOOK HILL Lisa DeFelice Director Kristen Smith Nora Bitting Lisa Birchard Christopher Biasotti Matt Paino Christian Poluse Kevin Horan 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 Total Registration 144 Average Daily Attendance 58 Swim Program Attendance 33 98 54 29 84 40 26 104 49 45 118 54 54 Special Events included Tie-Dye Day, Camp Olympics, Ice Cream Sundae Day, Face-Painting Day, Halloween Day, Fiesta Day, Water Games, Art Contests, and Bracelet and Necklace Day. Recommendations: There were no vandalism problems this year, however the location needs to be patrolled after hours. Problems arose with one of the bathrooms this year. I recommend that the director ( or a counselor) be required to check the bathrooms prior to opening and after the close of camp each day. It has been requested that two more tables be added at Spook Hill. The staff of eight was quite adequate for covering the number of campers who were in daily attendance. I recommend that we maintain seven or eight employees at this location for 1998. SWIM PROGRAM STAFF: Heather Williams Brian Glendenning Shannon Bray Joseph Sottile WSI WSI Instructor Lifeguard The pool was in excellent shape this year. The swim program seemed to run well this year with one exception. Staff and campers complained that they would be waiting at Deer Hill for the swimming staff to show up. Once they did show up, they did not take the campers into the pool area for anywhere from ten to thirty minutes. I recommend that scheduling be addressed so that the campers time at the swim program be utilized to its capacity. Camp staff needs to reminded that they are to be supervisingfmteracting with the children who are not in the pool at any given time, not playing cards among each other. The directors need to reinforce this matter. The ratio of non-swimmers to instructor has to be 4: 1. While this did not create a problem this year, it has in the past, and needs to be checked for periodically. The children had to wear a color coded wristband according to their swimming ability. Everything seemed to run smoothly. 1997 ANNUAL REPORT TOWN OF WAPPINGER SENIOR CITIZEN CENTER The Town of Wappinger Senior Center is open five days a week Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. As of December, 1997 there were 196 members registered at the Center with 236 on the waiting list. DAILY ACTIVITIES: 1. Arts and crafts activities are held daily. 2. Oil painting classes are held Tuesday from 10:a.m. to Noon under the direction of Kathi DeLisa. An average of 6 Seniors participated in this program weekly. (Total of 284 for 48 weeks.> 3, Aerobics/Exercise Classes are held Wednesday from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. under the direction of Sue Borchardt. An average of 19 Seniors participated in this program weekly. (Total of 763 for approx. 40 weeks.> 4. Aerobics/Exercise Classes are held on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. under the direction of Sue Borchardt. An average of 18 Seniors participated in this program weekly. (Total of 755 for approx. 42 weeks.> 5. Line Dancing Classes are held on Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. under the direction of Sue Borchardt. An average of 11 Seniors participated in this program weekly. (Total of 396 for approx. 36 weeks.> The Line Dancing Class performed at the 9th Anniversary Party and a picnic on the grounds at Town Hall. 6. Videos are shown on request on Tuesdays and Fridays from 12:30-3:00 p.m. Video Treats donates the Videos for this activity. 7. Cards and Pokeno are played from 12:30 to 3:00 p.m. daily. 8. Bingo is now played weekly on alternating Wednesday and Thursdays. When possible, Bingo is played twice a week as this is so popular. An average of 77 seniors play Bingo each week. 9. The photo club meets at Schlathaus on Monday (Thursday in the summer> and is under the direction of Bob English, a senior. Bob volunteers to head the Photo Club. An average of 5 seniors participate in this program weekly. 10. Creative Writing Classes were cancelled in July due to lack of interest. 1 11. Basic Bridge Lessons began in February under the direction of Henrietta MacDonald, a senior who volunteers her time to teach this popular card game. The Bridge class meets in the large meeting room due to lack of space in the Center room An average of 8 seniors participate in this class weekly.. 12. A Bridge Group (not for lessons) meets at Schlathaus on Tuesdays. An average of 8 seniors participate in this group. 13. Spanish classes began in September, taught by Elena Garrido, a senior originally from Panama. She speaks fluent Spanish and has taught for Adult Education. Elena volunteers her time and knowledge. An average of 9 seniors participate in this class. 14. Jig Saw puzzles are set up to work on. Several seniors work on these periodically. MONTHLY ACTIVITIES: 1. There is a monthly birthday party to celebrate birthdays of that month. A special party is given to any senior turning 80, 85, 90 or 100. (4 seniors turned 80; 7 turned 85; 3 turned 90.) 2. The Heart Association provides a monthly blood pressure screening on the second Wednesday of each month from 10:00 a.m. to Noon. An average of 57 people participate in this program monthly. GUEST SPEAKERS/PRESENTATIONS/HEALTH CLINICS: 1. Bea Seagul conducted a Mind Your Mind Workshop in March. 2. Shari Hubner, attorney spoke on health proxy and power of attorneys in May. 3. Cathy Godwin from CHP Senior Advantage spoke about HMO/Medigap coverage for seniors in July. 4. Shirley Stilgenbauer from Physicians Health Services spoke about this HMO/Medicare program for seniors in August. 5. Fire Prevention program sponsored by the Hughsonville Fire Dept in Oct. 7. The Dutchess Co. Dept. of Health provided a Flu Clinic in Nov. 2 SPECIAL EVENTS: Funded by the Seniors from their dues fund and craft sales. -I January: Hat Day: Seniors wore a funny, pretty, silly or unusual hat for the day. There were prizes for the best hats and pizza for all.(68 Seniors attended. T-Shirt Day: Seniors wore their Wapp. Senior Center T-shirts. Had pizza, soda, cake and played bingo. (75 seniors attended) February: VALENTINE'S DAY: Seniors enjoyed a Valentine's Ball at Christo's. Valentines for all, prizes, music by Johnny Dell. Children from James Evans School gave seniors handmade valentines that were handed out at the Ball.(90 seniors attended) George Washington Day Party: A birthday party for "George" was celebrated with cherry pie and ice cream. (36 Seniors present). March: St. Patrick's Day Party: Had green bagels and cream cheese and green cake. Each senior received a green carnation. (35 Seniors present) Easter Luncheon: at Mamma Marissa. Music by Larry Hazzard on keyboard. (92 Seniors attended) EASTER SURPRISE: Three Easter bunnies (Regina, Linda and Kathi) surprised the seniors with special eggs filled with candy, and prizes. Seniors enjoyed the treat, those with a prize ticket in their egg won Easter baskets, bunnies an other prizes. (75 seniors present) April: Bowling Party: at Holiday Hoe Bowl. Coffee and danish served. Pizza served for lunch. The Fishkill Senior Center and the Zion Church Center joined us for the first ever combined Center activity. (100 Seniors (50 of ours) attended.) WHEELESS FORTUNE: Cindy Starke from the Fishkill Senior Center brought their "Wheeless Fortune" game to Wappinger and led the seniors in this fun game. Prizes were lottery tickets for all, wine for game winners. The "big winner" received wine and ticket. (43 seniors participated.) T-SHIRT DAY: All wore their Center T-shirts. Had pizza and soda for lunch followed by bingo. (58 seniors attended) May: Mother's Day Luncheon: Seniors celebrated Mother's Day at the Dynasty Restaurant. Each lady 3 June: July: August: received a carnation. (83 Seniors present.) Senior Citizen Appreciation Day Celebration: This year Ruth Speedling was awarded the 3rd Annual Wappinger Senior Center Senior Award of the Year! An Honorable Mention was awarded to Anne Orefice. The Seniors previously voted and selected these seniors to receive the awards for their outstanding service to the Center. Sandwiches, cake and coffee were served. The Town Supervisor, Connie Smith presented the awards. Cable News Center 6 and Southern Dutchess News covered this story. (60 Seniors attended) GIANT BINGO BANGO!: Three Centers, the Wappinger Fishkill and the Zion Church Centers combined to enjoy a day of Bingo together. This Giant Bingo was held at the Zion Church. Over 125 Seniors attended this event. We had pizza, McDonald's orange drink and a good time. HEALTH & FITNESS DAY: Led by Sue Borchardt, a day devoted to health & fitness. Did scavenger hunt, poker walk, mind games. Had light snacks and fruit. (49 seniors attended.) Breakfast at Fishkill Plains School: sponsored by the PTA, bagels, muffins,juice, coffee and tea were served by the students. The chorus entertained the seniors. Seniors gave each child a pencil with a topper on it.(60 seniors attended) 9th Anniversary of Senior Center: Block party with music, dancing, barbeque, hot dogs, hamburgers, salads, soda, dessert, bocce contest, prizes. Line Dancing class performed. (over 100 seniors present.) Office of the Aging Picnic: Provided by the OFA. at Schlathaus Park. Music by Bill Paroli. Food included B-B-Que chicken, potato salad, baked beans and fruit. T-SHIRT DAY: All wore their Center T-shirts. Had pizza and soda followed by bingo. (60 seniors present) DRESS A BANANA CONTEST: Seniors brought a banana. Nuts, marshmallows, cherries, syrups, etc. were supplied to dress up that banana. When complete and prizes awarded, seniors used their "dressed" banana to make a banana split. Ice cream was 4 donated by Ben & Jerry's. A fun day and delicious treat! (58 seniors attended) DEDICATION OF SHUFFLE BOARD: Shuffle board court donated in honor of Mr. & Mrs. Clark was dedicated. Snacks were served after dedication. September:GIANT BINGO BANGO!: Three Centers, the Wappinger Fishkill and the Zion Church Centers combined to enjoy a day of Bingo together. This Giant Bingo was held at the Fishkill Center. Over 130 Seniors attended this event. We had pizza, McDonald's orange drink and a good time. Walking Club Luncheon: Lunch at Gino's Restaurant for those who participated in the Walking Club. Awards presented to those who walked the most miles. All receive a certificate of achievement. (35 seniors attended.) October: Craft Fair: Raffle prizes, coffee/donuts served. Crafts, bake sale, Granny's Attic, Book sale and much more. (opened to public.) Halloween Party: all came in costumej donuts, cider, and Pizza for lunch; prizes for costumes. Treats for all. (68 Seniors present.) November: GIANT BINGO BANGO!: Three Centers, the Wappinger Fishkill and the Zion Church Centers combined to enjoy a day of Bingo together. This Giant Bingo was held at the Fishkill Center. Over 133 Seniors attended this event. We had pizza, McDonald's orange drink and a good time. Thanksgiving luncheon: Best Western (109 Seniors attended.) December: Christmas luncheon at Villa Borghese: Music by Johnny Dell, Santa arrived with gifts for all. (124 Seniors attended). Christmas Breakfast/Brunch: Served bagels, cream cheese, fruit cake, muffins, cheese and crackers, cake. Instead of a Christmas grab bag, the seniors donated food items and gifts to be given to 2 needy families. Played a special Christmas Bingo. (89 seniors present) 5 EXTRA EVENTS: The Town of Wappinger Recreation Commission in cooperation with the Wappinger Elks Lodge held a Christmas dinner for 192 seniors. The dinner was open to all town seniors. Donations from local community businesses and professionals helped to make this possible. Each senior received a gift of a small box of candy, an ornament and small bottle of wine handed out by Santa. The dinner consisted of fruit cup, salad, turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans and pumpkin pie and coffee. There were several raffle prizes awarded. Music was provided by Johnny Dell band. The dinner was a great success. This holiday event has become very popular. It is our hope to provide two such parties in 1998 to accommodate more Town seniors. SENIOR CITIZEN TRIPS: Westchester Dinner Theater Alantic City Platzel Brau Haus Wood loch Pines Botanical Gardens/Triplets Aqua Turf Waterfront at Ehrheardt Mohonk Mr./Winery Tour MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION: 1. Eight seniors in the oil painting class won prizes at the Dutchess Co. Fair this year. One senior was awarded Chairman's Choice and Excellence award for his 3-D diorama. A total of 23 awards to our oil painters and Diorama maker. 2. Basic Bridge lessons began in February and is quite popular. This is played in the large meeting room because of lack of space in the Center room. 3. A Bridge group plays at Schlathaus on Tuesdays. This too is very popular. The group is very grateful for this opportunity. 4. A Beginner Spanish class began in September. Attendance is very consistent for this class. 5. The photo club has moved to Schlathaus on Mondays. This space enables the group to do more versatile work such as developing and printing. The photo club is delighted to have this opportunity to expand. FUTURE NEEDS: 6 7'''0c'';,"'';;;:'~~' 1. We have outgrown the designated space for a Senior Center.. Many special events must be limited to 80 people leaving many on "another waiting list." Many events must be held at restaurants allowing more seniors to attend. The growing senior population has us "bursting at the seams." It may be necessary to look for other sites and/or additional space. There are 236 Seniors waiting to be members at the Center. All efforts are made to accommodate as many town seniors as is possible in this limited space. Activities such as exercise held in different space allows those on the waiting list to participate. The bridge groups bring more town seniors as does the oil painting and photo club. The Senior Center at Town Hall permits the occupancy of 80 people. The Center has doubled its occupancy from the original space, however, the number of staff remains the same. The Director is full time. The Craft teacher positions are both part time, one working 2 days, the other 3 days. With the potential of 80 people in most days, the current staff is not sufficient. Additional staff would allow additional programs possibly in other locations as well as assisting at the Center on very busy days. The Center programs are and have been expanding including more diversity. To enable continued growth I recommend a full time craft/activity person and more hours for apart time person. Kathi DeLisa Director Senior Citizen Center 7 ~