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WEST ALLIS, Wis. - For the Second Annual Senior Prom, hosted by the West Allis - West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services Department, registration has surpassed the initial goal of 80 participants with 112 prom-goers. Senior prom is scheduled for Friday, May 19 from 1 - 4pm at 2450 S. 68th Street.

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Senior prom is for attendees ages 55 and older looking for a day of connection, dancing and fun. The afternoon starts with a catered sit down meal in Dorow Hall, followed by a dance with live music from Blast to the Past playing the hits from back in the day. Senior Prom has all the traditions of a high school senior prom with boutonnieres, corsages, centerpieces, pictures, and of course decorations in the gym. The red carpet will be rolled out for all of the guests of honor.   

“The phones have been ringing non-stop regarding our Senior Prom,” Program Manager Amanda Schwitchenberg said. “This is a true testament to how successful this event was last year and how excited our community is for their Senior Prom this year."

One of the biggest questions from past attendees is whether or not the students from Dottke High School will be in attendance this year. Last year, the students served food, danced with prom-goers and enhanced the overall excitement of the Senior Prom. The WAWM RCS Team is excited to welcome back the students from Dottke High School for a second year.

“It’s exciting to welcome back our community for our Second Annual Senior Prom,” Program Manager Beau Benner said. “We hope that all our prom-goers have a blast dancing with their friends - old and new - and enjoying good food and great music.”

For many who attended the inaugural prom, it was the first prom they ever attended. As successful as it was,  it is no surprise that attendance has skyrocketed for the Second Annual Senior Prom. Our Senior Prom is made possible with donations and support from local businesses including Village at Manor Park, B&K Bar Supplies, Sodexo, Aggie's Bakery & Cake Shop, and Glorioso's Italian Market. 

For more information on events like the Second Annual Senior Prom, please visit our website at wawmrec.com to view our 2023 Summer Activity Guide. For media inquiries, please email Robyn at elliottr@wawmsd.org.

WEST ALLIS, Wis. - Throughout the United States, Teacher Appreciation Week takes place from May 7 through May 13, with Tuesday, May 9 being recognized as National Teacher Appreciation Day. May is also Mental Health Awareness Month, and for one of the most stressful jobs in the country, the WAWM RCS Team wants to share some ways to help yourself as a teacher and help support other teachers in our community.

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Ways to Protect your Mental Health as a Teacher

1. Move your body

Although teachers are often on their feet a lot during the day, the need to move your body often helps to release energy and stress that is collected during the school day. Moving our bodies consistently can help to create a routine in which we can stay active and healthy.

2. Set boundaries and hold them

Expressing your needs is necessary. You can’t always be at 100% or always ON. By setting boundaries and keeping them, you will prioritize what is important to you. Scheduling time in your day that is non-negotiable and just for you will help you to recharge your energy. Remember, no is a complete sentence (especially if it drains your energy!).

3. Keep up with self care

Instead of only prioritizing self care when you are run down, keep up with your self care on a weekly basis so you can ensure mental wellness. Creating habits of self care can allow you to lay a strong foundation for the life you want to live and will make it easier to say YES to things that are good for your mental health.

Ways to Help Teachers Protect their Mental Health

4. Check in on each other

A simple check-in with a fellow teacher can help them feel supported and connected. Lean into others around you for support and also look for the nonverbal cues they may be sending. Make sure you listen to how someone feels and help them find the resources they need to help if they’re struggling.

5. Express Gratitude

To give yourself a more positive outlook almost immediately, then practicing gratitude is the way to go! By sharing your gratitude with a coworker, it will boost your mood and make them feel appreciated and connected. Sometimes a small gesture is all it takes to flip someone’s day around.

6. Keep each other accountable for self care

One of the best ways to make someone feel supported is knowing they have a network of cheerleaders holding them accountable. By showing them that you genuinely care about their well being will allow them to continue to prioritize their self care. This also allows for bonds to be created and shared experiences to be had.

We have many upcoming classes to support your mental health in our 2023 Summer Activity Guide. If you are interested in finding a class to support your mental health or treat yourself to some self care, visit wawmrec.com/activityguides. 

WEST ALLIS, Wis. - For the month of March, or Women's History Month, the West Allis - West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services Department is celebrating women in our community who are leaders and difference makers. 

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For our final feature, we are highlighting West Allis native, Olympian, World Champion and 2017 USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame inductee, Chellsie Memmel. Thank you for inspiring us and being a difference maker!

WEST ALLIS, Wis. - On March 17, 2023, the West Allis - West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services Department received the 2023 GroMoreGood Grassroots Grant presented by The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundations and KidsGardening.

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The Grassroots Grants are part of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s larger GroMoreGood initiative, which aims to bring the life-enhancing benefits of gardens and greenspaces to 10 million children by 2023. This year, a total of 160 programs, including the Early Childhood and Recreation Adult Day (RAD) Programs at the WAWM RCS, received funding to start or expand their youth garden or greenspace with a total of $95,000 awarded.

“Fairview Acres is important, not only to me as gardening is a passion of mine, but to share this passion with RAD and our Early Childhood participants so they can learn different ways to produce healthy food and lifestyles,” Program Manager Linda Gritzmacher said. “The children will learn how to tend a garden with watering and weeding, what different vegetables look like and what they will taste like.”

The Fairview Acres’ goal is to bring the community together through gardening along with providing unique opportunities to all involved in caring for it. The programs will kick off their gardening efforts the week of March 30 starting with indoor planting. By utilizing this method, some plants will be able to have some early growth before they are planted outside - weather permitting.

“Fairview Acres will create a unique intergenerational opportunity for our RAD Program participants and Early Childhood programs to interact and engage with each other in a meaningful and engaging way,” RAD Program Coordinator Katie Lindgren said. “I am very passionate about creating accessible opportunities for all, especially when it comes to outdoor activities. This will create new ways for our participants and our community to engage with others through gardening and healthy meal planning and preparation.”

The programs have highlighted a garden wish list which includes seeds (peppers, tomatoes, green beans, snap peas, pumpkins, cucumbers, etc.), top soil, potting soil, seed starting potting mix, seed starter trays, watering cans, assorted sizes of gardening gloves, and gardening tools (hand rake, pruner, cultivator, trowels, etc.). Please bring any donations to the Recreation Center located at 2450 S. 68th Street.

If you have any questions regarding the Fairview Acres Garden or donations, please contact Linda Gritzmacher at gritl@wawmsd.org (Early Childhood) or Beau Benner at bennerb@wawmsd.org (RAD Program).

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation is committed to bringing the life-enhancing benefits of gardens and greenspaces to more people and more communities, especially those that need them most. Working with a wide range of innovative partners, including KidsGardening, they are ensuring that today's generations, and the ones that come after, will experience a world made better through gardens and greenspaces. Full list of 2023 GroMoreGood Grassroots Grant Winners HERE.

WEST ALLIS, Wis. - For the month of March, or Women's History Month, the West Allis - West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services Department is celebrating women in our community who are leaders and difference makers. 

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For our fourth feature, we are highlighting the longest serving female mayor of West Allis, Jeannette Bell. Thank you for being a leader in our community.

WEST ALLIS, Wis. - The West Allis - West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services Department is offering a free swimming evaluation on Apr 22, 2023 at Nathan Hale High School for swimmers ages 4-18. 

REGISTER HERE: FREE SWIM EVALUATION

For the first time, the WAWM RCS is offering this evaluation as a way for parents/guardians to enroll their swimmer(s) into the correct level swim class for the start of summer. The department hopes to alleviate some of the stress that comes with choosing the wrong level for your swimmer(s) along with allowing parents/guardians to interact with department swim teachers.

“There are many accidental drownings throughout the U.S. each year which is why swim safety is so important for us to provide for our community here at the WAWM RCS,” Aquatics Program Manager Ashley Phillips said. “I hope that this class provides parents/guardians and children the opportunity to learn a lifesaving skill to enjoy the water and allow parents/guardians the ease of signing up for the correct level class at the start of the summer.”

The sessions will take place at Nathan Hale High School located at 11601 W. Lincoln Ave. and are offered from 10-11am or 11am-noon. Since swim safety is so important, the WAWM RCS believes there shouldn’t be a barrier preventing families from attending this swim evaluation which is why this is a free event.

The department has seen that there is a need for this course as many parents/guardians have enrolled their swimmer(s) into the wrong levels which, more likely than not, means that they won’t be able to enroll in the correct level because classes fill up quickly. By providing this course, the WAWM RCS hopes to provide swim safety to everyone in our community along with alleviating anxiety and annoyance of enrolling into the wrong level which may delay your swimmer(s) progress.

Visit our website www.wawmrec.com/youth/swim-lessons to register and if you have any questions, please contact Ashley Phillips at phillipsa@wawmsd.org. 

WEST ALLIS, Wis. - For the month of March, or Women's History Month, the West Allis - West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services Department is celebrating women in our community who are leaders and difference makers. 

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK: @wawmrcs

For our third feature, we are highlighting the West Allis Police Department's Lieutenant of the Community Services Unit, Lt. Jessica Johnson. Thank you for your service to our country and our community and as a leader and difference maker.

Jessica Johnson was born and raised in Manitowoc, Wis. With an eagerness for adventure, she joined the U.S. Air Force after high school graduation at the age of 17. It had been 40 years since the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act was enacted in 1948, which allowed women to join any branch of the military. As a paralegal in the Jag Corps, Jessica served 22 years in the Air Force; Sembach, Germany, Edwards AFB, Los Angeles AFB, Eglin AFB, 440th Airlift Wing and finally, the 128th Air Refueling Wing. 

At the age of 26, she came home to Wisconsin and began serving our West Allis community as a Police Officer for the past 26 years. She has served our community on Patrol, as a DARE officer, Detective, Detective Sergeant, and the department 's first female command officer in 106 years, as a Lieutenant of the Sensitive Crimes Unit.  She currently serves as the Lieutenant of the Community Services Unit. When she began her Law Enforcement career in 1997, she was one of 6 female officers in her department of over 130 officers. Currently, there are 17 female officers.  Women are still pioneering the way in our department and are being recognized for their unique strengths. She has seen women raise to the rank of School Resource Officer, Patrol Sergeant, Detective, SWAT Team and just recently, K9 officer.  

Jessica has remained a lifelong learner, earning an Associate's Degree in Paralegal Studies, Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and a Master’s Degree in Human Services with an emphasis on organization, leadership and management. Jessica has paid it forward to young girls by being an assistant coach on a youth fast-pitch softball team, a Big Sister in the Big Brothers/Big Sisters organization, a youth girls leader at church and sponsoring a young lady from France as a foreign exchange student. Her most proud moment is giving birth to her daughter 17 years ago.   

Jessica has always encouraged women to lift each other up. She believes, it is not always what you say, but what you do, to demonstrate one’s competence and earn respect. She can't recall the most important advice she's been given, rather she has always surrounded herself with people she has admired and learned as much as she could from them. As far as who inspires her, it is her peers. Jessica enjoys coming into work, helping and serving others.  It is not what you all have in life, rather the relationships and conversations you have with family, friends and coworkers. She thinks the younger generation is figuring out the work/life balance. While work is important, and at times takes priority, when all is said and done, it is family that will always be there for you after you close the office door for the last time. 

Women’s history month is a time to celebrate women and encourage other women that they can make a difference. Not only in America, but women all over the world, have fought tirelessly and courageously for equality and to be given a chance to access careers, education, enter legal contracts and to own property in their own name. In 1920, women were given the right to vote and to have their voice heard. Women are still fighting for their voices to be heard in 2023.  Ordinary women have worked tirelessly and have played an extraordinary role in the history of our community.  Women are moving forward, but there are still obstacles to overcome and progress to be made. 

WEST ALLIS, Wis. - For the month of March, or Women's History Month, the West Allis - West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services Department is celebrating women in our community who are leaders and difference makers. 

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For our second feature, we are highlighting WAWM Orchestra Director and Music Lead along with the creator/founder of the WAWM RCS Department Sinfonia Adult Orchestra and the leader of the Shining Strings, Mary Pat Michels.

Mary Pat took the time to share a few responses with the WAWM RCS Department which are listed below:

Thank you to Mary Pat Michels for taking the time to talk with our department and for the difference she makes in our community! To learn more about the WAWM RCS Department Sinfonia, please visit our website.

WEST ALLIS, Wis. - The National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA) shared research that physical activity and mental health are closely intertwined for many people. Especially with this winter weather we’ve been having in Wisconsin, many times we are forced to move our workouts indoors or cancel our sweat session.

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NRPA found that 84-percent of U.S. adults look to their local recreation departments to provide indoor activities when the weather is not cooperating. These activities include indoor tracks or treadmills, strength training, yoga or swimming – all activities that we provide at the WAWM RCS Department!

Here are a few you can look forward to next time the weather is less than ideal:

Indoor Walking Track

There are many perks to walking or running at the Recreation Center including controlled temperature, smooth walking service and convenient hours. We offer daily, 30-visit passes and yearly passes for our residents and non-residents. The indoor walking track is the perfect place to get your steps in no matter what the weather is like outdoors. With our flexible and extended hours, you’ll be able to find the right time to visit and get a great walk, run or workout in. 

New additions to the indoor walking track are a stationary bicycle, hand weights, kettlebells and a TRX band in case you’re looking for more than just a walk or run!

Strength Training Classes

Looking to add strength training to your inventory? Many of our courses are offered in varieties of high to low impact with energizing bursts and flows making them a perfect option for everyone! Total Body Intervals (TBI) is a class where you can improve your body composition, strength, endurance, flexibility and balance. Fitness Blend is a low-impact class with stretching, light weights and band that will help to get the muscles moving and blood pumping! If you don’t see a class you’d like to take, reach out to us let us know!

Yoga

Whether you’re new to yoga or have been incorporating it into your routine for years, we have a class for everyone! Relax and refresh your body and mind with Hatha Yoga as you emphasize proper alignment or start your weekend right by reducing stress and increasing your balance and flexibility with Saturday Morning Energizing Yoga. We have something for everyone including Yoga for Mental Health or Beginner Yoga so if you’re looking for something to add to your workout or self-care routine, look no further!

Swimming

What better way to stay active in the winter than by signing up for a swimming lesson or fitness class? Aqua Zumba is a great way to add a low-impact, high-energy class to your routine for one pool party you won’t want to miss! If you know someone who is learning how to swim, the American Red Cross “Learn to Swim” Lessons are just the place to start! What better way to grow your confidence for swimming in the summer than by signing up for lessons in the winter?!

Visit our website at wawmrec.com for more information on how to take advantage of the opportunities we provide at the WAWM RCS.

WEST ALLIS, Wis - On December 29, 2022, we share a post to the West Allis - West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services Department Facebook and Instagram pages highlighting our favorite moments of the year and encouraged our followers to share their favorite memory.

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One comment that stood out to the department was from Jill Krynicki who stated that her favorite memory was "taking tap dance class through the WAWM Rec Dept. for the first time in my 60-year old life." We were interested in reaching out to Jill because we felt she'd have a great story to share! 

Jill, a West Allis resident, has attended classes at the WAWM RCS on and off now for about 10 years. She likes that all the locations are near her and that we offer a variety of classes that catch her interest. Jill says that our classes give her a sense of accomplishment when she learns a new skill.

"I’ve found all the instructors of the various classes I’ve taken to be very passionate about what they are sharing, and truly care that students take something away with them at the end of the session," said Jill. "And as I mentioned earlier, you can’t beat the location."

This year, Jill decided that she wanted to take an adult dance class since she'd never taken a dance class as a child. She has always loved the old dance movies with Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly but her mom never enrolled her in a course. She felt she hit the jackpot when our class was offered in the Winter/Spring Activity Guide especially since no previous dance experience was needed. She is looking forward to her tap dance recital in March to showcase her new talents.

The WAWM RCS Department has been a tradition in the community since 1934. Jill believes that the Rec Department is a staple in our community because we provide such a variety of wonderful educational activities and classes for the entire family.

One of Jill's fondest memories of the WAWM RCS is taking a beginner's knitting class where she learned to knit a basic dish cloth. She stuck at this hobby, and now it's a passion of hers! She even knit the sweater she's wearing in the video.

Jill RECommends the Rec and so do we! Visit our website at wawmrec.com to sign up for a class you've always wanted to try. You might find a new hobby!

In our 2023 Winter Spring Activity Guide, we shared a Coloring Contest for different age groups to participate in.  It is now time to let the community vote on who you think is the winner! To cast your vote, head over to our Facebook page (wawmrcs) to view all the entries. 1 Like= 1 point, 1 comment = 3 points! Only 1 like and 1 comment per user will be counted.

Age Categories:

4&5

6&7

8-10

Voting is open until February 28th and the winners will be notified on March 1st.

Age 4&5

Ages 6&7

Age 8-10

Happy National Girls & Women in Sports Day!!

Join us in celebrating all of the girls and women who play, coach or work in sports through the West Allis - West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services Department. This celebration inspires girls and women to play and be active, to realize their full power.

Visit our website to #LeadHerForward by coaching or joining a team!

Women's Sports Foundation #NGWSD2023 #WeRECommendIt

WEST ALLIS, Wis. - Join the West Allis - West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services Department and the Recreation Adult Day (RAD) Program for a special book signing event at the upcoming Coffee Connections at the WAWM RCS Center.

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The RAD Program serves adults, ages 18 and older, with disabilities. This program aims to help participants learn and grow in the areas of daily living, personal, social, vocational, leisure and recreation skills. Coffee Connections are a monthly event for the program where coffee and refreshments will be prepared by our RAD participants for all to enjoy, each with a different theme.

On February 24 from 1 - 3 p.m., RAD participants will read and share their recently published book titled What Makes Us RAD. This book showcases what makes our participants unique and RAD!  Each participant will have their own page to show their likes, interests, and things that are important to them. 

“I’m really excited for our participants to have this unique opportunity to show our community what makes them RAD and to explain what our program is all about,” RAD Program Coordinator Katie Lindgren said. “Our participants have been working as a group on their writing and creativity skills and we thought this would be a fun way to show off their hard work.”

To purchase your own book, please contact radrcs@wawmsd.org to place an order. Soft cover books are $22.95 and hardcover books are $27.95. Books are offered via pre-order or we can assist you in ordering a book at the Coffee Connections event.

The program meets Monday-Wednesday and Friday from 9am - 3pm at the Recreation Center. On Thursdays, the group meets at AMF West Bowling Lanes from 9 am - 2pm for a day of fun on the lanes. All participants must provide their own transportation to and from the program, be independent in personal care and able to work in a group setting.

For more information about the RAD Program, please contact Beau Benner at bennerb@wawmsd.org. 

Now that we’ve written down our resolutions and made our intentions for the year ahead, it’s time to start 2023 off on the right foot! This may seem daunting, but here are some tips to help you get started. Today is Take the Stairs Day so we’re here to help you start off your journey one step at a time!

It’s always exciting (and a little scary) to start something new, but don’t let that stop you from putting one foot in front of the other. When you are discouraged that you've only taken small steps, remind yourself that small steps in the right direction are still progress. These simple shifts in your daily routine can create lifelong habits and switches in behavior. If it’s too overwhelming to focus on a step forward, try to focus on one small thing you can implement today that will make you 10% better tomorrow.

Now that we have taken the time to write down our resolutions and our intentions for the year, the next step is to make them visible so we get gentle reminders each day of what we’ve planned for ourselves. Keeping your intentions where you can see them will hold you accountable while allowing them to stay in the forefront of your mind. When you keep your intentions visible - say on the bathroom mirror or your desk at work - remember to focus on what you’ve done well, instead of what you haven’t accomplished yet. It’s important to permit yourself to keep trying towards your goals even if you mess up. Don’t throw away your intentions just because you strayed a little from your path! Reset your focus and begin again.

The final step is to do something for yourself as you start off 2023. The holiday’s can be stressful, so take a break and reset your mind and body. When you’re ready to get moving again, visit the Walking Track at the WAWM RCS Department or, weather-permitting, take a walk outside and get some fresh winter air. Short walks each day can help to reset your energy and give you the motivation to continue towards your goals. During these first few weeks of the new year, be kind to yourself and allow yourself to make mistakes as you start this new journey. 

As a reminder, these are some suggestions to start the New Year off on the right foot. If these don’t work for you, you can always start it on your left foot!

National Take The Stairs Day is celebrated every second Wednesday in January. Celebrate the day by taking the stairs, being active and keeping your heart rate elevated. This day is bringing awareness to Lung Health which more than 3.7 million Americans are afflicted by. Although this day won't solve the problem, it can help you in taking a small step towards a healthier tomorrow.

Happy New Year! Join us in kicking off the new year with a BINGO challenge! We’ve partnered with our West Allis-West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services department to celebrate so many of the great things about our WAWM community. For 2 weeks, follow the prompts on the BINGO board to get 5 in a row crossed off.

Once you take a picture or complete one of the challenges, cross it off and share the picture with us on social media. Be sure to tag West Allis-West Milwaukee School District and West Allis-West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services and include the hashtag #WAWMBingo so that we can see your picture! Winners announced by Friday, January 20.

If you get a BINGO (5 in a row horizontally, vertically, or diagonally), then you may submit your card via email to: wawm-social-media@wawmsd.org. All cards we receive will be entered into a drawing for a variety of prizes. EXTRA: Cross out ALL of the squares on your entire card to be entered to win a GRAND PRIZE.

There will be multiple winners, which means multiple chances to WIN!

When the craziness of the holidays wind down, we are often left rushed in creating our New Year’s Resolutions or we make lofty goals that are unattainable and set us up for failure in the new year. 

With 2023 approaching, this is a time to reflect on what the past year has brought and look forward to what we can accomplish. Setting realistic goals can help to improve confidence, boost your mood and get you motivated for the year ahead.

Here are four tips to making New Year’s Resolutions:

1. REFLECTION

The first step to making your resolutions for the new year is to reflect on the year that is coming to a close. Think about what went well for you, what is something you need to work on and what you’re looking forward to. Using a journal to record your reflections and your resolutions can help to bring your thoughts out of your head and into the world. This can help to calm your mind and allow you to see your goals in front of you. 

It is hard to improve if you repeat the same things over and over again without changing anything or seeing any result. By writing down your past resolutions, you’ll be able to think about why things did or didn’t work and make a plan to make sure you can crush your goals this year.

2. THINK ATTAINABLE

When it comes to resolutions, bigger isn’t always better. Research shows that almost 45% of people give up on their resolutions after one month because most of them are too lofty or drastic. Resolutions don’t need to be crazy or intense to make them worth it. 

The trick is to set small, attainable goals that are shown to be more successful because you will be able to take small steps towards your goal without burning yourself out too quickly. Setting small goals can allow you to celebrate your success incrementally instead of only celebrating when the task is completed or the goal is achieved.

3. STICK TO ONE (OR TWO)

Picking one or two resolutions is the key to successfully accomplishing them. Once you accomplish one resolution, you can always add more, but it translates to more confidence when you add resolutions after completing one instead of removing resolutions because you didn’t achieve them. Setting one to two resolutions also won’t be as overwhelming as it would be to set six or seven resolutions. 

With each resolution, you need a game plan on how to achieve them, so the more resolutions you have, the more you’ll need to plan which will make it harder to hold yourself accountable. By sticking to one or two resolutions, you will lower your stress levels while still making progress towards your goals.

4. WRITE THEM OUT

The last tip to succeeding on your resolutions is to write them down and to talk about them. By talking about them with others and writing them down, you bring your thoughts and actions to life. Now, you (and your support system) can hold yourself accountable and cheer yourself on towards your goals.

Writing your intentions and placing them in areas where you can see them throughout your house, car, or work area can be beneficial in reminding you and keeping those resolutions at the front of your mind. Support systems are great to talk over ideas, compare tips and tricks or to have someone to rely on. 

As we talk about New Year's Resolutions it’s important to remember that you don’t need the beginning of the year to make a change in your life. Each day is a new start and a new 24 hours to take another step towards your goals. You also don’t need to do too much, too fast. Making little steps each day in the right direction is the best way to make lasting progress. Also, everyone is different and unique so some people might be able to multitask more and achieve lofty goals, so this advice is different for all. These are only suggestions and we’d love to hear from you what your resolutions are for 2023!

Every year, the holiday season seems to come and go faster than the last. Look at us now - we’re more than halfway done with the month of December. If you’re trying to slow things down and enjoy the holiday season before it’s too late, we have some tips for you!

The first step to slowing down for the holidays is to prioritize what is important to you. Find out what you want to give your energy towards this holiday season so you can truly enjoy where you put your focus. This is the time to decide if you want to continue the traditions you have or if you want to begin new ones. Each of these will be based on what you find important in your life. Once you find out what your priorities are, you will be able to give your undivided attention to them which will bring great fulfillment.

Next, simplify, simplify, simplify. In this digital age, we can scroll through our phones and convince ourselves that we aren’t doing enough, we aren’t working hard enough or we won’t be happy unless ___(fill in the blank). Bigger doesn’t always mean better. Simplify what you think you need this holiday season whether that be gifts, decorations or even friends and parties. Instead of focusing on what you don’t have, focus on being grateful for what you do have and use that to fill your cup. Simplifying our wants will let us focus on the true meaning of these holidays and allow us to be more present instead of wishing we had more of something else.

Lastly, during the holidays there is a lot of focus on spending time with your family and friends. The important part to enjoy the holiday is to spend time with those who make your heart full. Some people might not have a great relationship with their family, but they have friends who have become family. The key part is that you spend time with those who make you feel like sunshine. Make sure you tell the people you spend time with that they are important to you. This will help you both to enjoy the season and each other's company. Another way to enjoy others' company is to take mental photos. Try to remember what is happening and store it in your mind so that you can go back and relive the day when the moment passes.

During this time, if we focus on what we have, instead of what we don’t, we will be able to slow down and enjoy the present moment. As we approach the New Year, we seem to focus on everything we need to change before the next year - a new workout routine or new diet - instead of focusing on what we do have. There will always be things we want to change, but if we focus on what we have now, we will in turn feel more grateful for the life we are living. Don’t forget to share the love and give to those less fortunate as well.

Beginning in January, our Active Living Every Day course will focus on goal setting, overcoming barriers and finding physical activities that you enjoy. If you are stressing about setting your intentions for the New Year, this course offers education to aging adults on ways to stay active and plan a healthy lifestyle. Visit wawmrec.com to learn more.

Yesterday, Monday, December 12th was the grand opening of our Maker’s Space and we welcomed Kaylee and her mom for some crafting fun! 

Are you looking for some holiday crafts to make this year? Or are you looking for a place to make your crafts come to life? Then you have to stop by our new Maker’s Space here at the Recreation Department!

Located at our main office at 2450 S. 68th Street, the Maker’s Space opened its doors this month as a space to let your creative ideas run free. A makerspace is defined as a collaborative work space inside a school, library or separate public/private facility for making, learning, exploring and sharing. Bring your own materials or use what we have available for you!

Since this is a new space, we wanted to share two craft ideas that you could do either at home or at our Maker’s Space to get you into the holiday spirit!

1. The first idea is to make a tree out of felt like Kaylee did. First, Kaylee took a piece of cardstock and glued “snow” made from felt to the bottom. Then, Kaylee traced the outline of a tree onto felt before cutting it out. From there, she glued the felt to a piece of cardstock. Next step, it was time for ornaments and garland! Using beads, sequins and gems, Kaylee decorated her tree with love and care. The final piece…a shining star on top! 

For this project you’ll need: 

• 1 Piece of Cardstock

• Green/White Felt

• White felt

• Yellow Star

• Ornaments/Garland

• Glue

2. Another idea is a Holiday Gnome. For this project, start by filling a tube sock with rice to your desired plumpness. Tie a knot at the top to secure the gnome's body before flipping the excess fabric over the gnome's body. From here, take a small elastic band to make the nose by pulling a small section of the body into a round circle and tying the band around it. Next, use a fuzzy sock for the gnome's head which you can cut and style to your liking. The last step is to add a beard. Take a piece of yarn about 6-inch long and lay it out flat on a table. Take nine other 6-inch pieces of yarn and tie them to the string. You can cut them into a V shape with the strand in the middle being the longest. Finally, tie the bottom string (that all the other pieces are tied too) around the nose and your gnome is complete!

For this project you’ll need:

• 2 cups of rice

• 1 tube sock

• 1 fuzzy sock

• Yarn for beard

• Elastic band for nose

If you have any questions on the Maker’s Space, please email Linda at gritzl@wawmsd.org or stop in to the department. We’d love to hear from you too if you have any ideas for projects you’d like to make. Please send your craft ideas to Robyn at elliottr@wawmsd.org. 

WEST ALLIS, Wis. - On Monday, December 12, the WAWM RCS Department announced the addition of a Maker’s Space to the Recreation and Community Services Center located at 2450 South 68th St.

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At its most basic definition, a makerspace is a place where you can make things. These spaces are for hands-on learning and include many different mediums and tools for unlimited creativity. Each makerspace is different which makes them all very unique. Makerspaces are a destination where learners (students or adults) can problem solve, develop skills and talents along with forging mental health through art and creativity.

“At the Recreation Department, everyone's an artist in our Maker’s Space,” Facility Scheduler and co-creator of the Maker’s Space, Jill Ponzi said. “Our physical space is called the Maker’s Space with an apostrophe because this is your space as the maker. We want you to come here and create what you want based on the materials available to you.”

The Maker’s Space is open Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 7pm, Fridays 9 am to 3 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 1pm.  You are required to check in at the front desk when you arrive at the Recreation Center and students grades 5th and under require adult supervision. For students in 6th grade and above, you are required to leave your school ID at the front desk and you can retrieve it upon departure.

This is a shared space, so in an effort to keep it clean, safe, and welcoming for all, we ask all to adhere to the posted usage guidelines.  Don’t worry though your creativity won’t be limited by too many rules. The WAWM Recreation Department wants you to have full creative freedom when you enter the Maker’s Space, but we expect that everyone else will have the same opportunity after you leave. 

“We are so excited that this space will finally be open to our residents,” Program Manager and co-creator of the Maker’s Space Linda Gritzmacher said. “Bring your ideas and bring your friends and get to work. The possibilities are endless and we can’t wait to see what you create!”

Donations of materials or funds are always welcome and will help the evolution of this room. For more information on how to donate to the Maker’s Space, please email Linda Gritzmacher at gritl@wawmsd.org. 

Here at the West Allis - West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services Department, we strive to deliver high quality programs for all members of our community. With the holiday season approaching, we think one of the best gifts you can give is the gift of health and activity. If you’re looking for the perfect gift for a family member or friend that says, “Keep working hard on your goals” or “I see you making moves,” then this article is for you!

Three Holiday Gift Ideas (plus a BONUS idea)

1. Walking Track Pass

Winter weather in Wisconsin is unpredictable and cold! Give the gift of a Walking Track pass which will allow recipients to get out of the elements and into the warmth of the Recreation Department! There are so many perks to walking/running with us including convenient hours, water bottle filling station and bonus features such as a stationary bike or kettlebells to name a few.

Research has shown that at least 10 minutes of walking per day can improve your health which can improve your heart and brain functions, provide better nights sleep and decrease stress related to anxiety or depression. If you are interested in purchasing a Daily Pass, 30-Visit Pass or Yearly Pass memberships, please visit our main office or call 414-604-4900.

 2. Gift Certificate

Available for any amount, gift certificates provide the freedom to the recipient for which opportunity they’d like to attend! This is perfect for members of all ages as we have many opportunities to get involved. 

Give the gift of fun, fitness, adventure, learning and SO much more! These certificates don’t expire and can be redeemed at our office or online. Please visit our main office to learn more!

3. Adult Fitness Punch Card

Have someone on your list who has many different interests or wants to try different classes? The Adult Fitness Punch Card is the perfect gift for them so they can try a few courses out and see which one they like best. 

The punch card is good for five visits and is valid for up to one year after the purchase date. This is the PERFECT gift for all people who either want to get into fitness or who need the flexibility to choose which classes they attend. Visit our website to learn more about how to purchase an Adult Fitness Punch Card.

BONUS Idea: Treat Yourself

This holiday season, don’t forget to Treat Yourself to a class or course you’ve been wanting to try. Holidays can be stressful for numerous reasons, so giving the gift of health and learning to yourself can help to improve your mental and physical health. Knowing that you picked out something fun for you to do in 2023 will help to ease your stress and give you something to look forward to doing with friends or solo.

We can’t wait to see which gifts you’re going to give or receive this year! Let your family and friends know if you’re looking for a gift from the WAWM RCS this holiday season. We are always available to help in choosing the perfect gift. Giving someone the gift of health, inclusivity and learning is a phenomenal way to know they’re starting the new year off on the right foot.

Hi West Allis - West Milwaukee Community! Shelly here, the Director of Recreation and Community Services for the WAWM RCS.

I hope you were able to see that we launched our 2023 Winter/Spring Activity Guide. We have so many great opportunities and we can’t wait to see what you select. If you haven’t received your copy in the mail, check out our website or come to the Recreation & Community Services Center to pick yours up!

If you’ve seen our guide, you know that we have some awesome classes so I wanted to share with you what I’m looking forward to:

First, I think the Little Bakers Cooking Series will be so much fun. If your little one likes to watch you bake in the kitchen, then this is a great step to introduce your little baker to the kitchen world. From Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies to Caramel Apple Pizza and more, this class is perfect for our future bakers ages 4-10 years old.

Second, back by popular demand are Nerf Nites! For 6th-12th graders ready to wreak some havoc, you will play a variety of games led by Milwaukee Area Nerf Outings. We supply the darts and the good times! All you need to bring is your blaster of choice and get ready for some fun.

Here at the Rec, we offer numerous events which are a great way to meet new people in our community and make memories with your family and friends. Our Daddy/Daughter Dance is a new event this year along with our Galentine’s Day event that include food and an experience of a lifetime. Other events include our Mother/Daughter Tea Party and our Egged event.

If you’re looking for a fitness class, you’ll find me at Hypefusion with some of the other ladies at the Rec. We would love to have you join us!  The intensity of the cardio will have you hyped  followed by strength conditioning. You’ll challenge your body with a full body workout, and have fun at the same time.

Don’t forget to check out our new Coloring Competition on page 35. Color in a fun picture of Rex for a chance to win a $25 credit towards a registration fee if your piece is selected. This contest is separated into age groups with a winner from ages 4-5, 6-7 and 8-10 years old.

Finally, here at the WAWM Rec, we do everything we can to impact our community and your donation can help us to reach further so every child has the opportunity to be involved with the Rec. Giving Tuesday, which is a movement that unleashes the power of generosity around the world, falls on November 29. We encourage you to flip to page 56 in our guide to learn more about our Champion for a Child Scholarship Fund. This fund gives children in our community a safe place to play before or after school or benefit from youth sport programs. Give today for a better tomorrow.

Remember, if you haven’t received your Activity Guide, please head to the Rec Department or visit our website to get your copy today!

WEST ALLIS, Wis. - On Monday, Nov 14, 2022, the West Allis - West Milwaukee Recreation & Community Services Department 2023 Winter/Spring Activity Guide will be live on its website (wawmrec.com) along with delivery beginning to our community.

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“We are beyond excited for all of the course offerings and opportunities we have in this guide,” Director of Recreation & Community Services Shelly Strasser said. “Be sure to check out the guide next week. We RECommend it!”

Highlighted in this issue is the 2nd Annual Senior Prom on page 32. Last year, this event welcomed over 100 seniors from the community for a fun-filled afternoon with lunch, sweets, dancing, a live band and MORE! Many attendees had previously never attended an event like this before, so our Senior Prom was the perfect way to warm their hearts and to connect them with others in the community.

Reignite old rivalries and meet up with old friends at the 48th Annual Alumni Basketball Tournament. Mark your calendars for December 21 and 22 at Lane Intermediate. Bragging rights are on the line once again so sign your team up for $25 and get ready for a great time. We hope you are as excited as we are to get together, reminisce and play some fun, competitive basketball.

New course offerings this session include Yoga for Mental Health for participants 13 years of age and older. These courses are designed to help you use yoga as a tool to live your best life along with bringing you a brighter state of physical health and mental well-being. Some topics discussed are Depression Relief, Stress Release and Management and ADD, ADHD & AUDHD Management. 

Each guide includes a portion in the back to Champion for a Child, where you can donate to the WAWM RCS Scholarship Fund. Recent research has shown that children from lower income families are less likely to participate in sports. Over 60% of the students in our district qualify for free or reduced meals which leave little to no discretionary money to enroll in youth programs or safe alternatives for after school activities. The Champion for a Child Scholarship Fund provides an opportunity to the children in our community and your donation will ensure that our students can reap all the benefits that youth sports and safe outlets have to offer. Any donation is welcome and gratefully appreciated. 

Inside the guide are ways to get involved either by becoming a part-time team member, a volunteer coach or even a referee. Training is involved with each offering and is a great way to learn and impact our programs. These are just a small portion of what’s inside of the 2023 Winter/Spring Activity Guide which will launch on Monday, November 14. For more information, to register online or to update your contact information prior to the launch, please visit wawmrec.com.