The Tecumseh Parks and Recreation Department is introducing a mix of outdoor and virtual programming beginning Friday, July 31. This modified programming is the result of research and design by the Recreation Services staff and summer students and is in line with the Province of Ontario’s Stage 2 Reopening Framework. The activities are FREE and will be led by Tecumseh Recreation Instructors. All outdoor programs will follow health and safety guidelines outlined by the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit.

“Thanks to our creative Parks and Recreation staff we are able to provide modified recreational programs that promote fitness and social connection with others while maintaining physical distancing protocols,” said Gary McNamara, Mayor of Tecumseh. “Residents of all ages will benefit from these active and engaging programs in a safe environment.”

Advance registration is required to participate in the programs, on a first registered, first available basis and is limited based on Provincial Stage 2 guidelines. To register visit www.TecumsehRec.ca or call the Tecumseh Parks and Recreation office at (519) 735-4756.

Starting Friday, July 31, the following activities will be offered by Town Recreation Staff and Instructors:

Power Off and Play – a structured program that encourages children aged 5-12 to get outside and play. The programs will be offered Friday mornings from 10-11 a.m. and will take place at a different park each week: Arrowhead (July 31), Carling (August 7), St. Mary’s (August 14), and Buster Reaume (August 21).

Chair Workout for Adults – an in-person fitness program for adults and seniors using a chair for seated exercises and standing support. The program will be offered on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. and will take place at Lacasse Park. The participants will be provided clean/sterilized chairs and will be guided through a variety of exercises that will help to increase muscle strength and range of motion.

Urban Poling – an in-person walking program for adults and seniors that provides a full body workout with the added stability of walking poles. The program will be offered on Tuesdays and Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. and will take place at Lacasse Park. The participants will be provided clean/sterilized urban poles and taken on the paved walking path for a cardiovascular and strength training workout.

Virtual Day Camp – a virtual/online program for children ages 5 to 12 that incorporates group discussions and activities. The camp will include a scheduled virtual morning and afternoon session (time to be determined) that is comprised of structured programs and activities to encourage group engagement and allow participants to socially interact while under the structured guidance and supervision of the Camp Counsellor.

“When health guidelines dictated we had to cancel programming this summer, staff began working on different opportunities to keep our community active while following health guidelines,” said Paul Anthony, Director of Parks and Recreation. “It started with our Virtual Recreation Complex, which is still available on our website, and now includes this in-person/outdoor programming. We hope these activities will allow residents to get back in motion.”

The Tecumseh Virtual Recreation Complex launched in April continues to be available at www.tecumseh.ca/virtualrecreation and activities are added on a regular basis. Residents are also encouraged to follow Tecumseh Recreation Services on Facebook for weekly videos of activities.

Information on this and all Town of Tecumseh news and events is available at www.tecumseh.ca. Twitter (@TownofTecumseh), and Facebook (Town of Tecumseh).

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Media Contacts:

Paul Anthony, Director Parks & Recreation Services, 519-735-4756 Ext. 423

Kerri Rice, Manager Recreation Programs and Events, 519-735-4756 Ext. 421