Parks commission expanding programs into winter

The Laketown Township Parks and Recreation Commission is expanding its programs this winter with plans for a life-saving course, a class on mushroom identification and a look at invasive species.

The winter indoor programs were discussed at the Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2024, meeting. More details will be announced at the Dec. 18 meeting.

Commissioner Mary Jo Bertolino brought up the idea in October and spoke with Elizabeth McEwen, executive director of the Felt Estate, who supports the idea. At the November meeting, Bertolino presented an outline of possible Saturday programs:

Jan. 25: Hands-only CPR taught by the Graafschap Fire Department and a presentation by the Boy Scouts of America on “How to find your way in the woods.”

Feb. 22: Mushroom identification by Mycophile’s Garden of Grand Rapids.

March 29: Invasive species presentation by the Allegan Conservation District.

Future programs could include a butterfly garden presentation and Native American workshop.

The parks commission sponsors summer recreation programs through the Outdoor Discovery Center. Events at the township parks include frog catching, kayaking, blueberry picking and a night hike.

The commission also sponsors Winterfest, a free community holiday celebration, at the Felt Mansion, 6597 138^th Ave. This year’s event is 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7.

In other business:

• The commission welcomed new members Sherry Sirko and Michael Teekamp and returning members Chairperson Brad Laninga, Tom Hoekman and Bertolino. A new treasurer and vice chairperson will be chosen in December.
• Laninga asked for final reports from the beach task force parking committee and access committee. The commission set up the groups in March to examine vehicle traffic, parking and ecology at the beach, 6710 142^nd Ave., as well as the stairs and beach access.