Community Corner

Have You Registered for Berlin's Winter Programs Yet?

Time is running out before the programs become open to out of town residents. Sign up today!

Wintertime is officially here, but don’t let the cold and shortened days get you down.

The Berlin Parks and Recreation Department is now taking registration for their winter programs, with opportunities available for all ages. Registration began Monday for in town residents and will remain available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Starting Dec. 9, the programs will also be available to out of town residents on the same basis. 

The winter brochure can be found on the town’s website, www.town.berlin.ct.us  on the Berlin Schools virtual backpacks or you may pick one up at the Berlin Parks and Recreation Department or town hall.

Available programs are as follows (submitted by Terri Noyes of the Berlin Parks and Recreation Department):

PRE-SCHOOL AND YOUTH PROGRAMS


Fit Toddlers - For 2&3 year olds (age determined by first day of class).  Each of the eight classes is a fun adventure for your toddler.  Parachute games, obstacle courses, games and much more create a playful environment for your child.  Classes meet Tuesday’s 9:30-10:15 a.m. or Friday’s at 9:30-10:15 a.m. or 10:30-11:15 a.m. at the Berlin Community Center.  Janet Orde is the instructor on Tuesday and Mary Beth Uryga is the instructor on Friday. All classes start the week of January 6. When you register you must register for one time slot and attend that class only. There is a fee for residents and non-residents.

Fun and games for 4’s – For 4 year olds (age determined by first day of class) – A continuation of the Fit Toddler program for those who have graduated to a more advanced level of fun!  Classes meet Tuesday’s 10:30-11:15 a.m. or Thursday’s 10:30-11:15 a.m. starting the week of January 6 for 8 classes at the Berlin Community Center.  Instructor on Tuesday is Janet Orde and on Thursday is Mary Beth Uryga. There is a fee for residents and non-residents.

Fitness Funk for Kids – Boys and girls ages 5-10 will have fun dancing and exercising at the same time! The class will incorporate elements of salsa, meringue, jazz and hip-hop. Kids will have a chance to enjoy dance and fitness in a fun, stress-free environment. Participants should bring a water bottle and wear comfortable clothes.  Deanna Showerda is the instructor. This program will meet on Tuesday’s from 4:45-5:30 p.m. at the Berlin Community Center starting on January 7 for 6 classes. There is a fee for residents and non-residents.

Fitness Funk for Kids – Boys and girls ages 11-14 will have fun dancing and exercising at the same time!  The class will incorporate elements of salsa, meringue, jazz and hip-hop.  Kids will have a chance to enjoy dance and fitness in a fun, stress-free environment.  Participants should bring a water bottle and wear comfortable clothes.  Deanna Showerda is the instructor.  This program will meet on Thursday’s from 4:45-5:30 p.m. at the Berlin Community Center starting on January 9 for 6 classes.  There is a fee for residents and for non-residents.

Exploring Dance – Children ages 3-5 will experience the enjoyment of ballet, tap, jazz and tumbling through creative movement during this 30 minute class held on Friday’s from 4:00-4:30 p.m. or Saturday’s from 9:00-9:30 a.m. at the Berlin Community Center.  Elizabeth Cook-Asal is the instructor.  Classes start on Friday’s starting January 10 or Saturday’s starting January 11 for 8 classes. There is a fee for residents and non-residents.

Dance Beginnings – Children ages 5-7 will discover and create dances while learning the elements of ballet, tap, jazz and tumbling during this 30 minute class held on Friday’s from 4:30-5:00 p.m. or Saturday’s from 9:30-10:00 a.m. at the Berlin Community Center.  Elizabeth Cook-Asal is the instructor. Classes start on Friday’s starting January 10 or Saturday January 11 for 8 classes.  There is fee for residents and non-residents.

Karate – Little Ninja’s, ages 4-6.  Tuesday’s and Thursday’s, 4:45-5:30 p.m. for 8 weeks starting January 14.  There is a fee for residents and non-residents with free uniform and awards ceremony.  Held at First Class Martial Arts and Fitness, 158 Mill St., Berlin, CT.  Prior registrants not eligible to register. Deadline to register is January 9.

Karate – Beginners, ages 7-12.  Monday’s 6:15-7:00 p.m. and Wednesday’s, 4:45-5:30 p.m. for 8 weeks starting January 13.  There is a fee for residents and for non residents with free uniform and awards ceremony.  Held at First Class Martial Arts and Fitness, 158 Mill St., Berlin, CT.  Prior registrants not eligible to register.  Deadline to register is January 9.

Art for Two – Parent/Child art class, Winter– Come make a winter craft with your kids.  For grades K-5 on Saturday, January 11 from 10:00-11:00 a.m.  Peggy Loehr is the instructor.  Class will be held at the Berlin Community Center.  There is a fee for residents and for non-residents (price includes cost for materials).

Art for Two – Parent/Child art class, Fleece Knot tie pillow– Come make a fleece knot tie pillow with your kids.  For grades K-5 on Saturday, February 1 from 10:00-11:00 a.m.  Peggy Loehr is the instructor.  Class will be held at the Berlin Community Center.  There is a fee for residents and for non-residents (price includes cost for materials).

Art for Two – Parent/Child art class, St. Patrick’s Day– Come make a craft with your kids.  For grades K-5 on Saturday, March 8 from 10:00-11:00 a.m.  A St. Patrick’s Day themed craft will be featured.  Peggy Loehr is the instructor.  Class will be held at the Berlin Community Center.  There is a fee for residents and for non-residents (price includes cost for materials).

Soccer Madness “Soccercise” Program – Soccer Madness “ Soccercise” program for girls and boys 3 ½ to 5 years old (age determined by first day of class).  Explore a combination of soccer and exercise.  Learn basic soccer skills through unique games and fun activities.   All children will receive a t shirt and ball for participating.  Dino Rocco is the instructor for the program.  The program will be held at the Berlin Community Center multi-purpose room, is one hour long and meets twice a week for 12 classes.  The minimum number of participants is eight and the maximum is fifteen. There is a fee for residents and for non residents.  Monday and Wednesday’s from 4:30-5:30 p.m. starting January 27.   Deadline to register is January 17 by 1:00 p.m.

Performing Arts Inc., Berlin Community Center – Monday’s, February 3-March 24 for seven weeks, excluding February 17.  Grades K-2,  4:15-5:00 p.m.  Grades 3-6,  5:05-5:55 p.m.  Some of the topics and activities include: exciting theater games, improvisational exercises, acting terminology, concentration exercises, voice and speech, sense memory, subtext, stage skills and script work.  For past and more experienced performers, classes will be challenging and offer new and exciting activities.  There is a fee for residents and non-residents. You may register by mail, register on line or by phone.

Performing Arts Inc. To register online go to www.town.berlin.ct.us   Departments & Officials then Parks & Recreation and look for link in program information, or go directly to www.performingartsprograms.biz, to get reduced price.  Each individual registration needs to be entered separately.  Enter coupon code PAPCLASS at checkout for each individual.  By phone: 860-432-9890, or by mail: Performing Arts Program, Inc., P.O. Box 633, South Windsor, CT 06074.  Registration forms for mail registration are available at the Berlin Parks and Recreation Department.  Performing Arts Programs, Inc. accepts VISA, American Express, Master Card, PayPal and Discover for online or phone registrations.  All refund requests follow the Berlin Parks and Recreation Department policy listed in the winter brochure with the following exceptions, funds for refunds will be issued by Performing Arts Programs, Inc. fees paid by credit card will be refunded by credit card, exceptions to refund policy will be made jointly by Performing Arts Programs Inc. and the Superintendent of Recreation.  If joint decision cannot be made then decision will be sole decision of Superintendent of Recreation.

Children’s Theme Birthday Parties Looking for a place to hold your child’s birthday party?  Let us help!  Now booking for children’s themed birthday parties to be held on Saturday’s at the Berlin Community Center from 10:20-11:50 a.m.  Dates available are January 11, 25, February 1, 8, March 1, 8, 15 and 22 and you must book at least 10 days in advance.  Party includes games, music, crafts and activities centered around your child’s favorite theme.  Choices include (but are not limited to) princess, pirate, pixie, super hero, beach/luau, pj’s, circus/carnival, animal, fairy tale, teddy bear picnic, doll tea party, dance party.  Choose a theme, combine themes or make up your own for your child’s special day.  You may bring in your own food, cake, drinks and tableware.  There is a fee for residents and for non-residents and is good for up to 12 children.  An additional fee for any children over the 12 children.

Red Cross Babysitting - course is for youths 11 years old and up will help prepare students to supervise children in the absence of parents or guardians. This course offer the youths the opportunity to develop skills in leadership and professionalism, learn how to take care of children from infants up to school age, child development, basic care, simple cooking and crafts, safety, safe play and first aid.  Students will receive a babysitting manual and a certificate (upon successfully completing the course).  Babysitting Instructor: Terri Noyes.  There is a fee for residents and non residents.  Class will be held at the Berlin Community Center.

Class 1: January 22 and 29 – 5:00-8: 15 p.m.  Class 2: February 25 and March 4 – 5:00-8:15 p.m.

2nd Grade Basketball
Basketball Girls 2nd Grade
Will be held beginning Saturday, January 4 at Griswold School cafeteria from 1:00-2:00 p.m. This is an instructional program, there will be limited time set aside each week for games.  Program will run for 8 weeks.  Bill Mayer is the instructor.  There is a fee for residents and for non-residents.  Class space is limited.  Indicate t-shirt size on registration form.

Basketball Boys 2nd Grade
Will be held beginning Saturday, January 4 at Griswold School cafeteria from 12:00-1:00 p.m. or 2:00-3:00 p.m.  This is an instructional program, there will be limited time set aside each week for games.  Program will run for 8 weeks. Bill Mayer is the instructor.  There is a fee is for residents and for non-residents.  Class space is limited.  Indicate t-shirt size on registration form. 

ADULT PROGRAMS
Men’s 31+ Basketball - Tuesday’s at McGee Middle School.  The program will run 6:00-9:00 p.m. from December 3 through April 1.  There is a fee for the season for residents and for non residents or you can pay the drop-in rate for residents or for non residents. Drop-ins must provide verification of eligibility at the door. Teams will be formed on a nightly basis.

Women’s 30+ Volleyball - Wednesday’s at the McGee Middle School gym.  The program will run 6:30-8:00 p.m. from January 8 through April 9.  There is a fee for this program for residents, and for non residents or you can pay the drop-in rate at the door for residents or for non residents.  Drop-ins must provide verification of eligibility at the door. Teams will be formed on a nightly basis.

Rockin’ the Retro – Come and enjoy the music through the ages during this hour long class.  The music is sure to get you moving!  For adults ages 18 and older.  This class will meet at the Berlin Community Center 20 times on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 5:45-6:45 p.m. from January 7-March 13.  There is a fee for residents and nonresidents.

Pilates – Our Pilates classes are held at the Berlin Community Center. Instructors are from Personal Euphoria, Wethersfield.  For more information on Pilates visit www.pilatesct.com  All classes are co-ed 18 years of age and up. Core Blast Pilates: Exercises are designed to strengthen and stretch every muscle in the body while also improving balance.  Focus is also on developing a strong core while also increasing flexibility and movement.  This class is based on traditional Pilates exercises with a modern flare and upbeat music to help keep you energized.  Come ready to work your abs, back, arms legs, and glutes.  Every exercise can be modified for beginner and intermediate levels.   Wear comfortable clothes, bring a mat and water.   12 weeks from January 6-April 7, no class on January 20 or February 17.  Limit of 15 participants. There is a fee for residents and for non residents Monday’s 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. or 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Barre Physique Class – Pilates Physique is a unique total body workout that focuses on small, controlled movements combined with gentle-on-the-joints but heart-pumping bursts of interval training to define and tone long, lean muscles.  With a combination of muscle work and stretching this program creates lean, flexible sculpted arms, flat abs and a lifted seat!  Using a chair or bar provided, you’ll be targeting every muscle in the body.  A challenging, safe and effective workout set to dynamic music props such as balls, bands and light weights.  Class will meet for 12 weeks on Wednesday’s from 6:15-7:00 p.m. from January 8-March 26.  There is a fee  for residents and non residents.

Power-Up Pilates - Like our regular Pilates class, this class will provide a full body workout.  You’ll work your arms, legs, abs, back, and butt, but use props that will help to strengthen, tighten and tone the entire body quickly and safely.  Power-Up Plates integrates the lengthening and stretching principles of traditional Pilates and add strength training.  Though exercises might feel more intense, every exercise can be modified for beginner and intermediate levels.  Wear comfortable clothes, bring a mat and water.  There is a fee is for residents and  non residents   Class will meet on Wednesday’s for 12 weeks, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. from January 8-March 26.

Morning Stretch Pilates –
Pilates is an exercise option for everyone designed to develop a strong core while maintaining loose, limber limbs.  The exercises provide variations to meet the needs of different body types.  The exercises strengthen the body while keeping joints mobile and flexible.  You’ll feel your muscles working and probably break a sweat.  Please bring a yoga mat and water to every class.  There is a fee for  residents and non residents.  Monday’s for 12 weeks from 9:30-10:15 a.m. from January 6-April 7, no class on January 20 or February 17. 

Intro to MELT Workshop – Learn simple self-treatments you can do both at work and home to help remain active, healthy and pain-free for life.  This all-levels workshop will use specialized small MELT hand and foot balls (as seen on Dr. Oz and the New York Times Best Seller List) to stimulate the results of manual therapy.  Help realize aches and pains brought on by stuck stress caused by aging and active living.  Help reduce inflammation, ease chronic neck and low back strain, improve alignment and learn how to keep your whole body working better.  Please bring an exercise mat and water.  This one hour workshop will be held on Wednesday, January 8 from 9:15-10:15 a.m. at the Community Center. There is a fee is for residents and non residents.

MELT to Move class – A weekly class to guide you through a MELT hand and foot workout.  Plus learn more options for MELTing your hands and feet--quick options for when you don’t have a lot of time and longer series so that you can really enjoy and reap all the benefits.  This class requires a one-time purchase of the MELT hand and foot kit (includes 6 MELT treatment balls – 2 of each size, bunion reducer, 60 minute DVD, illustrated instruction guide, all in a small carrying case).  Kit can be purchased from instructor at first class and is $45.00.  Class will meet for 6 weeks on Wednesday’s from January 15-February 26 (no class February 12) from 9:15-10:00 a.m.  There is a fee for residents and  non residents.

Tai Chi - Tai Chi consists of fluid gentle movements that are relaxed and slow in tempo.  It has been proven to work by slowing down bone loss, improving balance, reducing falls and improving quality of life.   Dress comfortably.  This class meets on Wednesday’s for 7 weeks. Classes held at the Berlin Community Center from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.  There is a fee for residents and  non-residents. A minimum of six participants is needed to conduct the class with a maximum of twenty participants.  Session 1 - January 22- March 5  and Session 2 – March 12-April 23.

Introduction to Yoga Series –This series, for new students, teaches postures and their alignments. The classes focus on breath, and address one posture at a time.   Learn to breathe fully and move with breath, as you increase flexibility and strengthen your body.  Learn relaxation techniques that can be applied to reduce stress in your daily life. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat. Space is limited so register now in order to reserve your place.  Classes will be held on Thursday’s from 7:00-8:00 p.m. at the Berlin Community Center for an 8 week series beginning on January 9.  There is a fee for residents  and nonresidents.

Power Yoga (75 minutes) - Develop strength, flexibility and endurance through this flowing practice. This class is a moving meditation of breath and postures. Power yoga creates space, lightness and stability in our bodies and calms our minds.  The class will conclude with several restorative poses promoting deep relaxation. The practice will leave you refreshed and renewed.   Instructor can provide any necessary modifications making this class accessible to beginners.  Classes will be held on Tuesday’s from 7:00-8:15 p.m. at the Berlin Community Center for an 8 week series beginning on January 7. There is a fee for residents and non-residents.

DOG OBEDIENCE CLASSES
All classes are held at the former Pistol Creek Golf Course, 600 Spruce Brook Road in East Berlin. Dog handlers should be at least 16 years of age. Instructor is Wendy McGurgan, professional dog trainer. Assistant trainer is Shirley Coulombe. Limit of 10 per class. 

Kindergarten Puppy Training
– The class is for puppies aged 2 ½ months to 6 months old.  We will work on leash walking and the come, sit and down commands.  Your puppy will also develop social skills and confidence.  Learn how to praise and correct your puppy appropriately.  Start a great relationship with your pup!  We will address problems like chewing, housebreaking and crate training.  You will need a 6 ft. leash and we will discuss leashes and collars in the first class.  First class is held without dogs.  Please bring a copy of your puppy’s current vaccinations to the first class.  There is a fee for residents and  non-residents.  This class will run for 7 weeks on Thursdays from January 9-February 20 from 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Basic Dog Obedience – The class will cover basic commands for the family dog.  Commands include sit, down, stay, heel, come and stand.  You will learn how to correct bad habits such as jumping up and pulling on the leash.  Learn how to praise, correct and discipline your dog appropriately.  Dogs should be at least 6 months old.  You will need a 6 ft. leash and we will discuss leashes and collars in the first class. First class is held without dogs!  A copy of your dog’s current vaccinations including Bordetella must be given to instructor at the first class. There is a fee for residents and for non-residents.  The class will run for seven weeks on Tuesdays from January 7-February 18 from 6:00-7:00 p.m.

Canine Manners – The class is offered to dogs and handlers that have successfully completed Basic Dog Obedience.  Dogs and handlers should have a working knowledge of the sit, down, stay, come, heel and stand commands.  Because we will be indoors, emphasis will be on adapting obedience skills for use in everyday settings.  Jumping up, bolting through doors, bouncing out of the car before you have the leash, crowding and wildly greeting visitors are some of the problems we will address.  We will use verbal and physical praise to reward our dogs, not food.  You will need a 6 ft leash.  Please bring a copy of your dog’s vaccinations, including Bordetella, to the instructor if not on file already.  There is a fee for residents and non-residents.  This class will run for 6 weeks on Wednesdays from January 8-February 12 from 6:00-7:00 p.m. 

FAMILY ACTIVITIES AND SPECIAL EVENTS
Santa’s North Pole Connection - Santa Claus and the Parks and Recreation Department are teaming up again for the 33rd annual North Pole Connection.  The intent of the program is to offer Berlin youth, from preschool, Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade the chance to talk to Santa on the phone.  Signup sheets are available on the school virtual backpacks, on the Town of Berlin website, Parks and Recreation Department office and Town Hall.  Calls will be made the week of December 9 or until completed.

Tinsel Fun Run - Co-sponsored with the New Britain-Berlin YMCA.  Registration is going on now.  Race will be held on Saturday, December 7 at Berlin High School and begins at 11:00 a.m.  To register contact the New Britain, Berlin YMCA, 860- 229-3787.

Outdoor Ice Skating
- Call the Berlin Parks and Recreation Department information line at 860-828-7100 for updated ice skating conditions at Willard Pond, Hubbard Pond, Sage Park Pond and Paper Goods Pond starting November 22.  Watch local newspapers for announcements.  When there is ice skating, Willard Pond, Hubbard Pond and Paper Goods Pond are lighted from 5:00-10:00 p.m.  Ice skating at Veteran’s Park is not recommended.  It is recommended that when there is ice skating personal protective equipment such as helmets, elbow pads, knee pads be worn.  Children should be supervised by an adult.

FACILITY USAGE
BERLIN COMMUNITY CENTER – The Berlin Community Center is open Monday-Thursday from 8:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Friday 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.  The Community Center offers a variety of facilities and equipment for public use.  The weight/exercise room offers free weights, a universal gym, treadmills, stair/step machines, an elliptical machine and stationary bikes.  There is an activity room with pool tables, ping pong tables and air hockey and a number of rooms that can be rented for meetings.  For more information or to inquire about a room rental, contact Debbie Dennis at 860-828-7056.

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