PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The famous quote, “If you build it, they will come,” doesn’t appear to be working for the Star City. Those in charge of programming for the new community center and recreation programs are wondering where all the people are?
“Our biggest concern is that we have so many wonderful programs at our rec department and we have this beautiful new facility with so much to offer to the public and for some reason the word isn’t really out there that these are here for people,” said Kim Smith, public information officer and grant writer for the city.
Recreation programmer, Bradlee Boyles, said his department added several new programs this year, including superhero themed fitness activities, flag football and a gardening club where children can grow their own food.
“Summer programs are instrumental to keep kids busy in the off season,” Boyles said.
With the city’s programs youngsters are able to keep their skills sharp and learn something new, Boyles added.
Mapleton resident Sherry Locke, who paid a season fee for her family, said the Presque Isle facility has kept the family busy all summer.
“I was a little concerned about the out of town fee, but when I realized it was for the whole season or summer, we had to pay the fee just one time and we could register both our kids for as many programs as we wanted,” Locke said.
She said her children participated in programs from archery to disc golf.
“They’re life skills and that’s what (my son) loves. We bought a bow and he’s excited to practice with that. Our whole family has gone down to do disc golf, that’s really cool,” Locke said.
The Sargent Family Community Center on the Chapman Road features rooms dedicated for seniors as well as youths, a gym, walking track, locker rooms and a multipurpose room available for rent.
“I think there’s something for everyone. All the different activities in the senior room, the free walking track, all of the kids activities, the different lessons like kayaking, gardening for the kids, it’s exciting, exciting programming, not just the same old stuff you’d expect,” Smith said.
A list of programs and schedules and prices can be found on the city’s recreation department website at pirec.org.
