It is unfortunate that we had to close the Austin Dog Park for a clean-up.

We received some information from a local veterinarian regarding canine parvovirus which was diagnosed in a dog that had been in the dog park. Parvo is a contagious viral illness most commonly found in the intestine or less common in the heart muscle.

Prevention goes a long way if you are a frequent user of public areas with your pet. Your pet should always be up to date with their vaccinations and always pick up after your dog immediately.  Beware that parvo more than likely exists in public places.

Dog parks have rules, as does ours. Please follow them as they are in place for everyone. By the time you read this more than likely we have re-opened;always watch our Facebook page for information. Thank you and enjoy the warmer weather.

Learning hockey

The next session of Learn to Play Hockey is scheduled for April 10, 17, 24 and May 1. This class is geared for those 3 to 8 years old and is held from 6-6:45 p.m. Cost is $25. Equipment can be leased with a cash deposit of $75. Supplies are limited and you must supply your own mouth guard. Please call Riley at 1-507-433-1881 if you have more questions.

Summer leagues

Hey adults, it’s that time of the year to get your team ready for softball, kickball and volleyball.

Adult Mens and Co-Ed softball team deadline is Wednesday, April 17. The office will be open until 5:30 p.m. There will be a mandatory manager meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24, for Co-Ed and 6 p.m. for Men’s League Adult Kickball deadline is 5 p.m. on Friday, April 26. There will be a mandatory kickball manager meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 1.  Co-Rec Sand Volleyball deadline is 5 p.m. on Friday, May 3.   Softball players must be 18 years of age before June 1, kickball and volleyball players must be 16 years of age.  For more information check Facebook or call our office.

Summer employment

You can stop in to pick up your application or print the seasonal application off our web site.  Park and Recreation has many part-time job opportunities for ages high school and up.

Are you retired and looking for something to get you outside?  We may have something for you.  We will have job openings in park maintenance, municipal pool manager, lifeguards and inside workers, gardener position and recreation positions. We will also be hiring a summer recreation assistant. Check www.ci.austin.mn.us  for the employment information.

Online registration

Our online summer registration is now open for Park and Recreation and Jay C. Hormel Nature Center programs. Our summer brochure can be reviewed on the city website so you can start your planning.  Online registration starts on April 1 at cityofapr.maxgalaxy.net or go to www.ci.austin.mn.us and follow the link.

Master plan

We would like to invite you to fill out a survey for the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center as we are working on a master plan for the center.

This can be found at www.hormelnaturecenter.org and on the homepage; click the master plan survey button.

Fourth Avenue Fest

Planning has started for this year’s Fourth Avenue Fest to be held on Wednesday, June 12. The pool will be open free from 6 -8 p.m.  A season swim pass is $40 per person.  The pool will open at 1 p.m. on Monday, June 10. Save the date for the free family fun night on Friday, July 26.

Riverside Arena

The Austin Bruins will be back in town April 5 and 6.

Watch Facebook for more times for public skates and Stick Time.