by Ken Lahmers
Editor
Aurora -- The city has gotten away from its volunteer roots, Ward 1 Councilman Jim Vaca told the parks-recreation committee Dec. 4.
"Back in the Dick Shaw era as mayor [1980s], there was a lot of volunteerism," he said. "We relied on volunteers during holidays and to plan special events.
"Now, the city pays to have everything done, rather than relying on volunteers. I think we should get back to the old small-town atmosphere."
Vaca noted one reason why volunteerism increased in the '80s was because of the dedication of Shaw's ex-wife, Joan.
One example he cited was her efforts in getting residents and students to make ornaments for the city's Christmas tree in the Bicentennial Park gazebo.
"Resident volunteers would put up banners, flower baskets and planters; paint city signs, and help beautify the city and plan special events," he said.
"We don't promote doing that as much anymore. It not only would save the city money, it would give citizens a sense of pride that their ideas and efforts are appreciated."
Parks-Rec Director Jim Kraus said his department and various youth sports organizations have some "great volunteers," such as baseball, basketball and football coaches.
"But it's difficult to get volunteers for other things these days," he said. "Many people are just too busy. Sometimes you need a specific cause to get people involved. We always welcome volunteers."
Councilman-panel chairman Denny Kovach said he believes some people "get scared away when they see the same people running everything."
He said now that the community is relishing the high school football team's state championship, maybe the city "will come together more and become more closeknit."
Anyone who wishes to volunteer their services for parks-rec activities should call the department at 330-562-4333.
Winterfest is discussed
The topic that led to the discussion of volunteer efforts was Kovach's suggestion the parks-rec department look into planning a "winterfest."
"I was in Minnesota recently, and there was a great winterfest going on," he said. "There were ice sculptures and all kinds of outdoor cold-weather activities.
"Winter is a time when the city doesn't offer much in terms of special events, and a winterfest might be just the thing to get a lot of people involved in."
Kovach suggested some of the activities could be ice skating -- provided there is an adequate place to do it -- a snowman-building contest and cross country skiing.
Panelist George Hettinger suggested having a Winter Olympics. He added the parks-rec committee could appoint a committee to explore it.
Kraus noted he will look into the costs of such an event, and noted it could not be pursued until next winter.
"We could get some ideas together and try some things, and if they prove successful we could build on that," Kraus said.
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