By Kevin D. Nelson

Executive Director, Austin Parks and Recreation

Youth Archery begins in early January and will be held in the 4-H building at the Mower County Fairgrounds. Youth Archery will run on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, from Jan. 8 through March 1. Register at the Parks and Rec office by Jan. 3.

Outside Rinks

The outdoor rinks will have ice when the outside temperature gets below freezing and is expected to be at or below that range for a sustained period of time. Although we’ve already experienced sustained cold weather, it is not typical, as temperatures are expected to be moderate, so we’ll not be flooding the outdoor rinks yet. It’ll likely be at least several more weeks. Thank you for your patience.

Curling

The Sunday afternoon/evening league at Packer Arena includes 12 teams and will wrap up by late December. The next mini season will begin in early January and will likely run through February. New players and teams are welcome for the next season. Equipment is provided for use each night!

Riverside Arena game schedule

Austin girls varsity hockey plays at noon today and will host Rochester John Marshall. Austin Bruins play at home Friday, hosting the MN Magicians. Puck drops at 7:05 p.m. Austin boys hockey plays at noon on Nov. 23, hosting La Crescent-Hokah.

Free programs at Jay C. Hormel Nature Center

• “Red-headed Woodpecker Recovery Program” with Jim Stengel

7 p.m., Tuesday. ​Come listen as Jim Stengel explains the decline in population of Red-headed Woodpeckers and what steps are being taken to reverse it. Sponsored by Austin Audubon.

• “Winter in Yellowstone” with Matt Freecheck ​

7 p.m., Monday, Dec. 2. The change in season brings on a completely different way of life in the United States’ first national park. Find out how survival is possible in this frozen landscape with Matt Freecheck as he shares his stories about winter in Yellowstone. Sponsored by Austin Izaak Walton League.

Packer Arena public skate dates

• 7:15-8:45 p.m., Wednesday
• 7:15-8:45 p.m., Nov. 27

We add times as different opportunities arise, so check our Facebook page regularly. Having a birthday party or getting your friends and family together? Consider renting the arena! Call our office at 507-433-1881 for details on available times.