Friends of Norwalk Park & Rec.

Collecting yard signs today. Please let me know if I missed any. A few have already been removed prior to my arrival, which is fine. We don't have a need for all of them.. A big thanks to those of you that allowed us to put a sign in your yard. An even bigger thanks to those that voted YES!!!! 😆

The entire staff at the Park & Recreation Department would like to thank the Norwalk voters for supporting our levy. In these uncertain times, we are humbled and grateful for the support. We will continue to offer you the best parks, facilities, events and leagues that we can. Thanks again!

Sincerely,
Joe Lindenberger
Superintendent

Election Day is tomorrow.

We realize that everyone is trying to wrap their heads around what is going on in our Country and the world in general. There is so much uncertainty with the shut down of schools, restaurants, our very own Rec. Center etc. We worry about our children, our parents and our jobs. But, we will persevere. We will get through this. Through all this chaos, it seems trivial to go to the ballot box. But, we need to look to the future. We need to look forward to the coming years, even while we struggle in the present. I ask that you make that small sacrifice of time and get to the polls tomorrow. We need your vote for Norwalk Parks & Recreation.

For all you softball fans, one of our local boy scouts has picked the project of building dugouts at Baines Park, like the ones you see here at McGuan. Likely, a project that will be installed between summer and fall leagues. Still tentative, but looking like this will happen.

Here are a few fun pictures to lighten the mood. Who can tell us what these 3 pictures represent??

Annual Pet N Pup Parade. Held in the Fall. Youngsters get to dress up with their pet and march down Main St. hoping to be named King or Queen of this staple event.

One of our many youth programs. Volleyball is offered in the Fall and Spring. This Spring session is offered to 1st grade through 5th. Games are held on Saturday mornings at the Community Center.

Water aerobics. Every Tuesday and Thursday @ 6pm in the Competition Pool. Did you know there are 17 water group exercise classes every week?

One of our more popular youth leagues. Flag football is offered to children from 5 years old through 6th grade. Games are played at Lions Park behind the Rec. on Saturday mornings in the fall.

Pool Pooch Splash and Swim.
This annual event allows our residents to bring their dog to the outdoor pool. Don't worry, this special event is the day AFTER our last summer pool day. As many as 60 dogs and owners have enjoyed this "doggie swim day" every August. Look for more information later this summer.

Here are a couple hidden gems in Norwalk located at Sofios Family Park. This picnic shelter is the largest of 9 in Norwalk. The boardwalk has 5 entrances winding through the wooded area adjacent to the park. A great scenic stroll awaits you!

Here is a blast from the past! Before you know it, the snow will be gone and Baines Park will be hopping with Softball leagues. We have Men's, Women's, Church and even Coed Divisions. Our annual Softball league team meeting is 6pm on Thursday, March 19.

Need to freshen up your work-out? Land classes alone have 33 different options throughout the week. Everywhere from step classes, 30 and out cycle, zumba, Silver Sneakers Yoga and more.

Beginning this fall, our city will begin replacing our 30+ year old playgrounds. The hope is 1 each year for 5 years. The best part is that as we do this, other agencies are stepping up to assist in making our playgrounds even more ADA accessible. Each playground will meet the needs of different ages and abilities. The first playground is at shelter #1 at the North end of Veterans Memorial Lake Park. Look for this work to take place this coming Fall. We will keep the community posted.

Scott O'Dell had been a member for 19 years, using the track 4 days a week, year in and year out. Our indoor track is a great way to get some cardio during these cold months.

Mark your calandars. Saturday, April 4th. All Children from toddlers through 4th grade are welcome to attend the Norwalk Lion's Club Annual Easter Egg Hunt. The event will be held at Baines Park with activities starting at 1pm. Egg hunts based on age groups kicks off at 2pm.

Did you know that Norwalk Park & Rec. offers canoe rentals at Veterans Memorial Lake ( The reservoir)? Enjoy the beautiful scenery and a little exercise at the same time.

Thank you Friends of Norwalk Park and Recreation committee member, Ryan Bowers for helping with yard signs. 30 spread across Norwalk yeaterday. Look for our signs, posters and later today our large banner at the corner of Milan Ave and Main St.

Annual Fishing Derby draws over 100 children of all ages. Special thanks to Dennis Blakely and his crew of Maple City Bassers for running this annual mid-July event.

Our most scenic park - Veteran's Memorial Lake Park. Home to nature trails, paved perimeter trail, disc golf, fishing, boating, canoe rentals, summer concerts, 4 shelter houses, and 3 playgrounds.
Who would like to see a future ampitheatre?

Friday and Saturday, our committee will be taking flyers out to post in businesses and yard signs to residents. If anyone else would like a sign, especially in a high traffic area, please let us know asap. Could use a hand or 2 more taking these around town. Any volunteers? :)

In 2019, we were fortunate to land several grants. The below pictures show 2 of our parks that had concrete trail expansions. Alex Waite phase 2 at Veteran's Memorial Lake Park and Sofios Park's perimeter trail. Both great additions to our park system.

Devyn Emmons has the heart of a champion. Overcoming major health and physical limitations, he just goes out and competes, without excuses or special treatment. Keep it up Devyn!

Great story posted online. Norwalk Ohio News. Check it out.

41 youth basketball teams this winter. 28 on Saturday mornings K-3rd grade.

Plymouth Shiloh 3rd grade lessons. Thank you FTMC. Last year 553 area children went through this program.

From youth sports, events, senior programs and parks.... we will be posting a daily picture over the next several weeks. A picture says a 1000 words!

With the levy just over a month away, we need your help. If anyone would like a poster to put up in their Norwalk business or a yard sign, please let us know. We would like to have everything out before March 1.

Friends of Norwalk Park & Rec. updated their business hours.