Slippery Rock Area Parks & Rec offers slate of summer fun

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kids eating watermelon in the park

May 25, 2016

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. - As the academic calendar draws to a close for most Slippery Rock University students, the realities of late night laundry sessions and linguistics lessons turn to thoughts of seasonal jobs and summer fun.

While many will seek solace at amusement parks, beaches and concert venues across the state, a variety of activities to recharge one's personal batteries are right around the corner from the University, courtesy of Slippery Rock Area Parks & Recreation.

Slippery Rock artist and sculptor Sandra Maxwell will host nine "Art in the Park" classes beginning June 20 at Slippery Rock Park. Sessions, which are $25 each, include all materials and run from 6-8 p.m. Additional classes are slated for: June 24, June 29, July 8, July 13, July 20, August 5, August 10 and August 19. The August 19 class is a special, "Paint Your Pet" event as attendees are encouraged to bring their favorite four-legged friend along.

"I thought (Art in the Park) would be sort of a fad when we first began a couple of year ago," said Maxwell. "It has become more of a movement and we keep seeing strong numbers. It's a good way for family and friends to share time together and create their own masterpiece to boot.

"I feel that there is a power in creating art that allows people to find relief and clarity both singularly and communally. I am always creating something. It's like breathing for me. I like to tell my students that art is a great way form of release and to get away from (the stresses of) life."

The always-popular "Watermelon Wednesdays" will happen weekly throughout July from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Slippery Rock Park Rotary Pavilion. Each event will showcase live musical acts, group crafts and - of course - an excess of watermelon.

This year's lineup includes:

  • July 6: USA4NOW (Americana acoustics) /wreath making;
  • July 13: Marylou Scherder (country)/tie-dye t-shirt making;
  • July 20: The Rock Jazz Trio/balloon animals; and
  • July 27: Music by Nyomin, Chris & Rich/face painting

A photo scavenger hunt is scheduled from 6-7:30 p.m., July 7 at Gateway Park. The event is open to individuals and families, with clues leading to past, present and iconic artifacts around Slippery Rock. Once items are located, participants should snap a photo with their mobile device as proof of their find. The winning individual or team will receive a gift certificate from B&J's Coney Island. Entry fee for the event is $10 per individual or family.

If self-preservation is more your thing, a self-defense class covering the basics of fending off the more common of attacks will be offered from 6-8 p.m., July 12. A participation fee of $20 is required.

Discounted admission tickets to a variety of area and regional attractions are also available for sale through SRAPR, including: Regal Cinemas, Kennywood, Waldameer, Pittsburgh Zoo and Idlewild & Soak Zone.

For more information, contact: Mary Messer, director of Slippery Rock Area Parks & Recreation, at: 724.794.8180.

MEDIA CONTACT: Maizee Zaccone | 724.738.2091 | mxz1016@sru.edu

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