Marana Interim Town Manager Jamsheed Mehta provided a Manager's Message for the latest issue of the Marana News:
A New Year is almost upon us, and with the holidays in the rearview mirror many of us will start making our New Year’s Resolutions. Some dream big by planning major life changes, while others keep their goals modest with just little life tweak here or there.
Whether your goals have to do with fitness, learning a new skill, or broadening your horizons, there is no better time to jump start your New Year’s resolutions than right now.
Marana Parks and Recreation programs are a great way to fulfill new goals. What better way to tackle those resolutions than to spring into the new year? Run, walk or jog into 2018 at the “11th Annual Egg Nog Jog”. Kickoff your fitness resolution, or have fun with family and friends at this popular event on New Year’s Day beginning at 9:18 a.m.
This sanctioned 5K route and new 10K option begins at Continental Reserve Park and loops through the beautiful Reserve neighborhood. The race is non-competitive, but timing chips will be available on race day. Enjoy egg nog and fun raffle prizes at the finish line.
Make sure to show some 2018 spirit and you might win big. Break out those funny hats, light-up glasses, or matching shirts, because the best show of spirit will win a fun bonus prize.
Not sure you can make it on New Year’s Day? Fear not, the Town of Marana will have another race to celebrate Mother’s Day on Saturday, May 12.
While there is no better way to get that jump start on your 2018 physical fitness endeavors, Marana residents can go “Full Steam Into Spring” through a wide variety of activities in the Prks and Recreation spring program. There is a little bit of everything for everyone.
In February, the Parks and Recreation Departments of both Marana and Oro Valley will team up for the “MOVE Across 2 Ranges – Hike Challenge”. This event is an awesome way to explore nature. Hit the trails and experience the challenge and beauty of Southern Arizona’s Tortolita and Catalina Mountains in one day. Trail run, hike, or stroll through this fun event. Hikes are as short as six miles, and as long as 21.5 miles for those with unreal endurance.
Our monthly guided hikes, horseback rides, and mountain bike rides of the Tortolita Mountain Trails continue. These popular guided treks are fantastic ways to view the scenic beauty that Marana offers.
Want something less strenuous? “Camping under the Stars” returns in April. Take the family camping at the Ora Mae Harn District Park. Sleep under the stars without having to leave town
If sports are more your thing, then Marana offers plenty of youth and adult sports leagues and lessons. For the kids, there are golf and tennis lessons and soccer leagues. For adults, there are softball leagues, open gyms for volleyball and basketball, and adult tennis lessons.
All ages can learn self-defense from “Steve Berry’s Monthly Martial Arts Academy”.
If your goals are less athletic and more academic, there is plenty to do in the Town to tackle those mental and emotional resolutions.
New parents can enjoy the “Mini Me Parent/Tot” classes, while DIY-enthusiasts really enjoy the “Make & Take” craft classes. Have a dog? You will have the best behaved pooch on the block after you take our “Ruff House: Dog Obedience Classes”.
Maybe you want to take up a new hobby? We can accommodate that. We are partnering with Pima Community College on a variety of classes from poker strategy to beginning guitar, floral design, and photography. There are classes on retirement planning, BBQ cooking, and rock and roll.
Whatever your resolution might be, the Town of Marana’s Parks and Recreation Department can help you achieve those goals. From getting fit to getting outside or to just learning a skill, there is plenty to do in Marana.
Learn more about Marana’s Park and Rec programs at http://www.maranaaz.gov/recreation
