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What’s a world without play? Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, many of us know how uninteresting life can be without community activities. Thankfully, Jackie Shakespeare, Assistant Director of the Miami Gardens Parks and Recreation Department, reminds us that all of the City’s parks, playgrounds, pools, and facilities are open to the public.
The Parks Department currently offers soccer, art, gymnastics, lacrosse, chess, photography, digital arts, martial arts, Zumba, line dancing, and wrestling activities in-person at its locations.
“All of our staff are required to wear N-95 masks while at work and when interacting with the public,” she said. “For safety, we ask that all visitors also wear face coverings and maintain a safe social distance while enjoying our parks and visiting our facilities.”
Current program activities include after-school programs for children, camps for students on teacher planning days, Winter and Spring camps for children in grades K through 5 at A.J. King, Carol City, and Rolling Oaks Parks, and for children in grades 6 through 12 at Norwood Park.
The heated pool at Bunche Park is open, and free swimming lessons are offered for children and adults of all ages. “We also have adult Aqua Fit classes in the mornings from Mondays through Thursdays and Saturdays, and the City’s Stingray Swim Team practices there during the week.”
But that’s not all. There are plenty of other things to do at parks in Miami Gardens.
Shakespeare says, “In the upcoming months, we will also offer a walking club, language classes, volleyball, boxing, basketball, and baseball.”
Indoor and outdoor rentals are also available for events such as meetings, baby showers, or birthday parties.
The newly opened Senior Family Center offers event facilities for rent and meeting rooms for classes, an outdoor pavilion, and patio space. Other amenities include a fitness center, walking trail, and computer lab. “This 15,000-square-foot facility is primarily for senior residents and presents extensive programming including a walking club, line dancing, field trips, game days, chess, yoga, Pilates, cooking demonstrations, seminars, luncheons, and other events for our senior population,” Shakespeare said.
She reminds us that behind every great park or facility are dedicated professionals, and she encourages passionate people to consider Parks and Recreation for future employment opportunities. “The City of Miami Gardens is looking for energetic and creative individuals, lifeguards, coaches, and instructors to add to our team. Full-time and part-time Parks and Recreation positions are now available.” To apply, visit the City’s website at www.miamigardens-fl.gov.
