|
|
Volume XVII, February 3, 2021
As of Monday, February 1, Kent, as part of the Puget Sound Region, has transitioned to PHASE 2 of the Healthy Washington - Roadmap to Recovery plan!
We are slowly reintroducing programming under these guidelines; our intention is to start small as we gain experience and confidence in delivering programs under these new constraints. We will continue to grow our offerings as we can to ensure the utmost safety for our participants.
While our Athletic Complexes remain CLOSED to public and drop-in use, they are open for reservations and permitted use. Phase 2 allows for low, moderate, and high-risk sports competitions with a maximum of 200 people in attendance (including players, coaches, officials and spectators combined). Tournaments remain prohibited.
To reserve space at a Kent Parks Department Sports Complex, please call 253-856-5100 directly to speak with a member of our Rentals team.
Current Sport Complexes open for reservations:
- Hogan Park @ Russell Road Field 1 (turf)
- Wilson Playfields (turf)
We are happy to be moving forward, and excited to roll out more programs soon! Until then, take a look below and see what's going on at Kent Parks!
|
|
Kent Parks eSports
 Did you know Kent Parks offers weekly eSports tournaments? While our in-person programming options are limited, we're bringing the gaming fun online!
Every Friday, we host new eTournaments for some of the most popular online games. They are free to participate in, and all ages are welcome (and encouraged!) to join! The only requirement is that participants must have access to the game and online gaming capabilities.
CURRENT GAMING LINE-UP:
- Rocket League
- Mario Kart 8
- Super Smash Bros.
- Madden 21
This Friday, February 5, we're kicking off Super Bowl weekend with a Madden 21 eTournament - AND we're also holding a Rocket League tournament! Visit our Facebook events page to register and read all details.
|
Mardi Gras Livestream
 Kent Parks Spotlight Series is excited to present a Mardi Gras LIVESTREAM concert featuring Jon Cleary and Ivan Neville.
The Kent Arts Commission is happy to partner with two of New Orleans’ finest musicians – Jon Cleary and Ivan Neville for a special Fat Tuesday duo performance on February 16 at 6pm! Jon and Ivan will perform some of their favorite songs and bring the Mardi Gras party to you! A portion of every ticket sold benefits Kent’s Spotlight Series. Tickets are $18 and available NOW.
BUY TICKETS ONLINE!
#joncleary
#ivanneville
#mardigraslivestream
|
|
 We are excited to bring our instructors straight to your computer! We are now offering a variety of virtual fitness class - FREE OF CHARGE! These classes are perfect for those looking to begin or restart their fitness journey. Participants must register online. Classes are limited to 15 participants.
Instructors will have modifications of exercises if needed; household items may be incorporated into class. For more information, check out the Virtual Fitness flyer, email webreg@kentwa.gov, or call us at (253) 856-5000!
AVAILABLE CLASSES:
-
Core Strength
This class is designed to strengthen core muscle groups, helping you build a strong torso and back while improving posture. This is a great compliment to any fitness training program! Offered on Mondays from 2-3pm, February 8 - February 22.
-
Back to Fitness Basics
The "basics," including moves like curls, squats, and lunges are focused on in this class to help you condition leaner, stronger muscles! A variety of equipment will be used, including body weight. Offered on Wednesdays from 2-3pm, February 10 - February 24.
-
Strength and Conditioning
Focus on improving body composition, increasing flexibility, and developing muscular strength and endurance in this strength and conditioning class! Participants will also build a stronger core through exercise that helps to improve balance. Offered on Fridays from 2-3pm, February 12 - February 26.
-
Full Body Fitness
This workout will consist of movement patterns incorporating the lower body, upper body, and core. It will start with a dynamic warm-up, 30+ minute workout, and a cool down. Participants may utilize and incorporate household items into workouts. Offered on Thursdays from 12-1pm, February 11 - February 25.
-
Beginning Yoga
A beginning style yoga workout. This class will teach basic yoga poses to strengthen, lengthen and relax your body. No prior experience needed!
Offered on Tuesdays from 11am-12pm, February 9 - February 23 and on
Thursdays from 11:15am-12:15pm, February 11 - February 25.
Senior Activity Center Programs
We are excited to provide virtual programs every week for individuals age 50 and older. All classes are funded through the King County VSHS Levy Program. For questions or registration for any of our virtual programs, please email senioractivitycenter@kentwa.gov.
Social Support Group
Mondays, 10:00 – 11:00am
Join us every Monday for this online (Zoom) group where you can meet new friends, talk about topics of interest or concern and receive support and encouragement.
This program is facilitated by Valley Cities Behavioral Health Care.
Grief Support Group
Wednesdays, 10:30 AM
Join us for this online (Zoom) group where we will discuss the five stages of grief, learn about healing and receive support and encouragement.
This program is facilitated by Valley Cities Behavioral Health Care.
Virtual Tai Chi
Thursdays, 9:00 – 10:00 AM
Join us for this online Zoom group designed as gentle movement activities that will assist with better balance and less stress. Mindful meditation (which is part of Tai Chi) can help reduce the symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression.
This program is facilitated by Valley Cities Behavioral Health Care.
Be Well Workshops
Wednesday, February 10, 1:00 – 2:00 PM
Celebrate Love and Valentine's Day
This program is facilitated by Valley Cities Behavioral Health Care.
NEW! Virtual Fitness Classes
Beginning Monday, February 8, we'll be offering a variety of virtual fitness classes for FREE! Classes are suitable for all, but are perfect for beginners or those looking to restart their fitness journey.
Available Classes:
- Core Strength
- Back to Fitness Basics
- Strength and Conditioning
- Full Body Fitness
- Beginning Yoga
Please see the above section for details, view the Virtual Fitness flyer, or email senioractivitycenter@kentwa.gov for a list of classes, dates and times!
|
Kent Parks Adaptive Recreation and Quota International of Kent Valley want to spread a little love by gifting our Adaptive Recreation participants a FREE Valentines-themed Sugar Cookie Decorating Kit! Register today, then drive through and pick up your cookie kit on Saturday, February 13th from 10:00am - 12:00 pm at the Kent Senior Center, located at 600 East Smith Street. Each kit comes with 4 sugar cookies, frosting and fun sprinkles to decorate! Limited spots are available - Registration is required.
REGISTRATION INFORMATION:
MyKentParks.com/Register
Course: #72380
|
|
 |
 |
|
There are only a few Valentine's Day STEAM bags left. Don't miss out!
These STEAM bags are perfect for families with kids age 4-10. Each STEAM Bag will include science activities, art projects, goodies, a decorate-your-own valentine cookie kit, and more!
Families must pre-register to receive a bag.
Registered participants may pick up their bags on Thursday, February 11th from 4-6PM at the Kent Commons Community Center, located at 525 4th Ave N.
Scholarships are available; please inquire for details. For more information, call (253) 856-5000.
REGISTRATION INFORMATION:
MyKentParks.com/Register
Course: #72360
Fee: $12
|
 Individuals 50 years of age and older can register for a FREE Valentines-themed goodie bag from the Senior Activity Center's Feel the Love drive-thru distribution event! Registration is required.
On Friday, February 12 from 10am-12pm, registered participants can drive through the Senior Activity Center parking lot, located at 600 East Smith Street, to pick up their goodie bag. CALL (253) 856-5150 to register. One bag per participant.
Please Note: Registered participant must pick up their own bag.
 The Riverbend Driving Range is now closed for the third and final phase of renovations. This includes tee line renovations, the addition of 14 new driving range stalls, new restrooms, and a full interior redesign of the building! Check out the Riverbend Golf Complex website for details.
Mark your calendars - renovations will be complete mid-May!
Join one of our Clubs!
If you are an avid golfer, consider joining our Men's Club or Ladies' Golf Association in 2021! Our golf clubs offer a multitude of perks to members - including freebies, preferred tee times, discounts, and more.
Riverbend's 25th Annual Ball Buster
 |
|
Check out our upcoming tournament for a chance to win BIG! Our 25th annual Ball Buster tournament is Saturday, February 13. The entry fee is $130 per team.
Teams can consist of one amateur and one professional, or two amateurs. See the details and REGISTER!
|
|
What is your favorite Kent Parks memory? Do you have a favorite class, or a Kent Parks program you love? Is there a park you visit every day? We want to see what you love about Kent Parks - share it with us!
Email your photos to MyKentParks@KentWA.Gov with a short description for a chance to be featured on our social media accounts!
Picture: 2015 Kent Parks Youth Basketball game.
7-year-old Dominic Donati (left) celebrates as his team makes a basket! Thank you to Tony Donati, Kent’s own Conservation Coordinator from Public Works Engineering, for submitting this great photo!
|
|
 |
NRPA's February Foods of the Month are Water and Good Oils/Fats!
Water
 |
|
Did you know that when a baby is born their bodies are made up of 75% water? As we grow older, that number goes down to roughly 60%.
Drink water instead of sugary drinks when you are thirsty!
Just how much water do you need? That's easy! Let thirst be your guide; water is an important nutrient for your body, but each person’s needs for water are different. For children, it is recommended they drink 6 – 8 glasses a day that total to around 44 - 50 ounces.
Drink more water if you are active, live or work in hot conditions, or are an older adult. Keep a reusable bottle handy, and refill with water all day long for an affordable, eco-friendly, and healthy way to quench your thirst!
|
Good Oils & Fats
Healthy oils and good fats are those that are “unsaturated,” and are found in foods like extra virgin olive oil, avocados, nuts, and oily fish like Salmon and Tuna. These oils are good for our bodies and help keep our hearts healthy. Plant-based foods that contain good fats, such as avocado, most nuts, and seeds contain lots of fiber, vitamin K, and folate – be sure to include some healthy oils and good fats in your meal plan each day! |
|
 |
|
|
Parks Planning & Development
The West Fenwick Park renovation is moving right along! The new playground is installed and construction on the futsal court is nearing completion. For more information on this exciting renovation, visit the project page!
|
|
 |
|
Underground Secrets by Elizabeth Conner
This week, we're featuring “Underground Secrets” at Garrison Creek Park, 9615 S. 218th St. This integrated artwork by Elizabeth Conner runs through the entire park, revealing and interpreting the presence of an underground reservoir in subtle, imaginative ways. Recycled pipes, valves, and water-related mechanisms mark and lead visitors through the site. Ubiquitous and functional chain link is transformed into an aesthetic design element, creating whimsical structures and drawings in space.
|
Visit “Underground Secrets” and take a photo with it, then share on Facebook or Instagram and tag it with #kentarts! For more public art, check out our online map.
|
|
 With virtual learning still in full swing, we wanted to round up some fun workouts for kids to do after their laptops are closed. Who's ready to get active?!
|
Snack Ideas
 Getting bored of the same old snack routines?
Check out the yummy snack options we've rounded up for you to try at home!
|
|
|
Kent Kids’ Arts Day has been a springtime tradition for over 35 years in Kent. This year we’re doing things a little differently to make sure the tradition continues. We’ve invited four of our most popular artists to create five different project kits that kids can take home and build on their own time. Registration for each project will be available online starting February 15, and will remain open until midnight on March 10. Parents/guardians can pick up the project kits at a drive-thru event between 10am and 1pm at the Kent Commons on Saturday, March 13. Complete instructions will be provided in each kit and a video link to an online tutorial will be available on the Kids’ Arts Day website. Each artist is only providing 12 kits - mark your calendars for February 15 and bookmark the registration page so you don't miss out!
 |
|
Project: Tube Critters
Artist: Liz Gasper
Create your own Tube Critter out of toilet paper tubes. You can even give it a name!
|
Project: Pulp Painting
Artist: Liz Gasper
Make your own recycled paper pulp and then use it to create a special design.
Your artwork can be abstract, realistic, bold, subtle, or whatever you can dream up.
|
|
 |
 |
|
Project: Creative Embroidery
Artist: Susan Bagrationoff
Using a needle and thread, make leaf designs by sewing them into felt. Patterns are provided, or you can make your own!
|
Project: Collagraph
Artist: Artists and Crafts Supply
Young artists will learn how to make unique prints and designs through the medium of collagraphy, a simple printmaking process that was introduced in the 1950s.
|
|
 |
 |
|
Project: Book Making at Home
Artist: Carole Huelsberg
Young authors and artists will love to learn how to make their own books at home using minimal supplies. They make great keepsakes or gifts!
|
Kent Creates hosts LOOKING FORWARD online exhibit
Happy New Year! We are bidding farewell to 2020 and welcoming 2021. The changing of the year is a time to look forward with wishes, goals, and plans for ourselves, our communities, and the world. For this Kent Creates exhibit, the Kent Arts Commission encourages artists and creative minds to be inspired by the mindset of looking forward. Show us how you’re looking forward and what you’re looking forward to in 2021!
The exhibit is open to any creative endeavor – photographs, paintings, poems, recipes, short films, songs, or stories – anything you can dream up. Submit your projects as part of the online LOOKING FORWARD exhibit at KentCreates.com.
The top 5 winners will receive a $200 honorarium, and their work will appear in the featured carousel on the Kent Creates home page. Deadline is March 31, 2021.
 Image Credit: © Ken Morris, “Morning walk – toward the bright way,” photograph
|
|
|
Spread the love with these fun Valentine's Day-themed crafts we rounded up! They will make the perfect handmade gift for all your loved ones.
|
|
|
|
|
