July 22, 2006

MARICOPA - Tuesday's City Council meeting seemed more like a calendar of events promotion for Maricopa's Parks and Recreation Department.

With four agenda items, Parks and Rec Director Marty McDonald stole the show, telling the council about some of his plans for the months ahead. With the city's first public park, Pacana Park, opening in September, McDonald is ensuring that residents get their money's worth when it comes to activities.

Fishin' Derby

Located at Porter and Honeycutt roads, the park will have as its first official event, the second annual Fishin' Derby, scheduled for Sept. 4. While last year's derby was held during the Fourth of July holiday, McDonald hopes the move to Labor Day weekend will mean temperatures will be a few degrees cooler. Thanks to sponsors like Fry's Marketplace, AMS Realty and Orbitel Communications, 150 children will be provided with rod and reel sets and the opportunity to participate in the derby, all free of charge. Families also will be able to chow down on brats, burgers and hot dogs at a barbecue following the event.

"We had 135 kids last year and they had an absolute blast," McDonald said.

"Last year was an outstanding success," Councilman Steven Baker added. "We had a great turnout and it was a great family event. I think the parents had more fun than the kids in some ways."

Registrations for the fishing derby will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis at City Hall beginning July 31.

Grand opening

Pacana Park will have an official grand opening celebration on Sept. 15 and 16. Friday night festivities will include a celebrity softball game, recognition of Maricopa Little League All-Stars, demonstrations by the Arizona Cardinals and Phoenix Suns, live music, inflatable rides, carnival-style games and food. Saturday night the city is planning a movie in the park for the whole family.

Founders Day

One of the city's largest and most anticipated annual events, Founders Day, will stretch into a week of activities this October. Making its third annual appearance, Founders Day is no longer just a Saturday affair.

"Our goal is to see Founders Day become Founders Week," McDonald said.

While many of the details are still in the works, the chili cook-off, scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 14, will move to an afternoon and evening event with an expanded presence by area businesses in a Vendor Village, as well as live music, games for kids and presentation of keys to the city. Local author and historian Pat Brock will make a presentation earlier in the week. A Dash-and-Dart Fun Run for adults and children will take place Sunday, Oct. 15.

"Due to increased demand for a walk and run program, the city of Maricopa, along with Wells Fargo, will team up to create the first annual Founders Day Dart-n-Dash fun run," McDonald said. "And we hope to bring in a national recording artist for a large concert to close out the Founders Day festivities Saturday night."

All events are free and family friendly. For more information, contact Marty McDonald at 568-9098, ext. 204.