Asheville Parks and Recreation Launches January Activity Challenge

News Summary

Asheville Parks and Recreation is hosting a January Activity Challenge that encourages community involvement through a fun bingo-style game of outdoor activities. Participants can choose activities ranging from poetry writing to stargazing, with the chance to win prizes. This initiative comes as Asheville recovers from Storm Helene, promoting community spirit and engagement. Residents can print a participation card from home or pick one up at local centers to join in the fun and help revitalize the city’s parks.

Asheville Parks and Recreation Launches January Activity Challenge

If you’re in the vibrant city of Asheville, you’re in for a treat this January! Asheville Parks and Recreation (APR) has rolled out an exciting new Activity Challenge that’s not just about getting off the couch but also about connecting with your community and having some fun. This challenge comes at a time when many people are looking to kickstart their New Year’s resolutions, and what better way to do that than with a friendly bingo-style game filled with enjoyable activities?

How the Challenge Works

So, here’s the scoop: the challenge is designed like a bingo game where participants can choose from a list of various activities to complete throughout January. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good bingo? Activities include everything from writing a heartfelt poem and visiting a local farmers market, to capturing a selfie at one of the beautiful parks, enjoying some stargazing, or taking a stroll for one mile on a greenway. You can even test your listening skills by identifying three different bird songs while out in nature!

How to Participate

Getting in on the fun is super easy! You can either print a PARKS card from the comfort of your home or grab one at any APR Community Center. Once you’ve completed a bingo card, simply turn it in during February for a chance to snag some cool prizes. Yes, prizes! There are five levels to achieve based on how many squares you’ve completed, which means more chances to win.

What Can You Win?

The prizes on the line are not just ordinary items – think stylish silicone wristbands, handy waterproof phone pouches, chic tote bags, trendy tumblers, and even trucker hats! Clearly, there’s something for everyone, and who doesn’t love a little incentive to get moving and enjoy the beauty of Asheville?

Community Connection During Recovery

This initiative holds extra significance as Asheville is recovering from the aftermath of Storm Helene, which caused considerable disruptions across the area. Many parks were affected, leading to a phased reopening process. More than half of the parks in the city have now reopened, but others are still undergoing repairs and may take a while to bounce back. During this challenging time, APR aims to offer engaging activities that uplift spirits and foster community connections.

The State of the Parks

Cleanup efforts have been in full swing to assess the damage across various parks. Minor damage parks have been prioritized for a quick turnaround so families can enjoy them again, while those requiring extensive restoration face a longer wait. Sadly, areas with catastrophic damage, such as playgrounds and bridges, will remain closed indefinitely until further notice. For instance, the velodrome at Carrier Park is under scrutiny and needs a comprehensive engineering assessment before it can safely reopen.

A Call for Community Engagement

Residents are encouraged to stay clear of the areas still closed for their safety while APR continues to assess and clean up the parks. On a positive note, some parks like the east side of Carrier Park and the entire French Broad River Greenway are set to reopen, making it easier for the community to enjoy the great outdoors once again.

Stay Informed!

For those eager to stay updated on the park conditions and find out more about upcoming events, APR has a detailed program guide on its website that lists all the upcoming activities. January is a great time to explore what Asheville has to offer while participating in the fun and engaging activity challenge that brings everyone together.

Weather Forecast

As a side note, the forecast for the day shows partly cloudy skies with a high nearing 33°F, dipping to around 19°F at night. So make sure to bundle up if you’re heading outside to join in on the fun!

Overall, this January Activity Challenge is the perfect way to embrace the new year filled with activities, community spirit, and a good dose of adventure in Asheville’s beautiful parks. Get ready, set, go – and happy bingo!