New Ulm Rec Center is closed through the end of construction; expected to reopen late summer.

• New Ulm Civic Center is open for fitness equipment and classes and walking. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday, 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon; Sunday, noon to 7 p.m. Masks must be worn at all times, including when working out, attending classes and sports. Everyone entering must do a self-screening at the door prior to entering. If you answer yes to any of the question, you may not enter. Check in at the Welcome desk and maintain 6-feet physical distance. Bring your own water bottle; water fountains remain turned off. Members are asked to limit socializing while in the building. Check the website for open skate/ hockey dates/times.

• Fitness Classes continued to be offered with membership or $5 walk-in fee. Please check the schedule at newulmmn.gov for dates, times, location and Zoom options. Online, advance 24-hour pre-registration required for Zoom access to Weekend Warrior Classes and Zumba. Please reach out to sandyb@newulmmn.gov or 233-2121, extension 204 to get a link added for a class.

• Summer Program Registration available online at www.newulmmn.gov or at the Civic Center. No phone registrations at this time.

Adult Leagues: Co-Rec Sand Volleyball and Co-Rec Softball registration is open for summer leagues, starting Mid-May. Deadline to register a team is May 3.

• Youth Pottery: Ages 6+, Beginner, Hand Built and Wheel options available. Deadline to register for June sessions is May 28.

• Exercise for Chronic Disease/Pain Management Six-week program combines flexibility, strength training, tai chi and aerobic walking with health education for sustained behavior change. Expect to gain a clear understanding of how physical activity can help manage pain and symptoms related to chronic disease such as arthritis and Parkinson’s Disease. Learn to perform safe stretching, balance, aerobic and strengthening exercises. The first 45 minutes are devoted to physical activity and the remaining 30 minutes are focused on health education and pain management. Health Education information is provided by the Fit & Strong exercise program. Classes will be offered in person and online. Register at the Civic Center.

• Youth Day Camps – The Park and Rec Camp Programs provide a fun and safe environment for kids to socialize, be creative and imaginative, and get plenty of exercise. Our fun staff will create a positive, exciting atmosphere in which to lead children through a variety of games, projects, arts, crafts and challenges. Our activities are chosen to engage children physically, mentally, and socially so that they gain confidence in themselves through the fun we have together. Choose a week or choose the whole summer! A light snack will be provided each day. Please pre-register for each camp at least two weeks in advance. Itty Bitty Camps, ages 4-6: M/W, Tu/Th 8:30 a.m.- 10:30 a.m. Explorer Camps, ages 7-11: M-Th 1 p.m.-4 p.m.

• Parks- restrooms are now open but drinking fountains remain off. Pickleball nets at Lincoln Park are up and volleyball nets at Harman Park are up.

• The New Ulm Community Center – Meals on Wheels and takeout meals are operating. Call 359-2243 for delivery or reserve a meal for pick up.

• Rec Center Construction Update – Construction photos can be found on our Facebook page.

• Memorial/Gift Giving Ideas – purchase one or more paver stone(s) with your inscription(s), in the walkways near Hermann Monument and/or German Park for $200 each, contact the Park & Rec office at 359-8344. Park or trail benches range in price from $1,500 to $3,500 each, call 359-8344.

• Email List – review Park and Recreation Commissioner discussion items by subscribing to the meetings through E-Updates. To subscribe, simply go to https://cityofnewulm.civicweb.net/Portal/Subscribe.aspx and check the box next to Park and Recreation Commission, enter email and complete verification code. The next time an update is made, you will receive a notification directly to your email’s inbox.

• We will continue to communicate with the Public via Facebook, The Journal and KNUJ.