VERMILION — Vermilion parks will host a mix of wellness and live music this summer after the Parks and Recreation Board approved two community event requests during its May 19 meeting.
The board approved a request from Heidi Boone to hold a series of community yoga classes at East Exchange Park. Boone told the board she is trying to bring more wellness opportunities into the community while also working with local businesses, including Brewed Awakening and Big Ed’s Soda Grill.
Boone said proceeds from the yoga events will go back into the community through Grace’s Kitchen, a local charity that supports families and students connected to Vermilion Elementary School.
The yoga classes are scheduled for:
- June 16, 6 to 7 p.m.
- June 23, 9 to 10 a.m.
- July 14, 6 to 7 p.m.
- July 21, 9 to 10 a.m.
- Aug. 4, 6 to 7 p.m.
- Aug. 11, 9 to 10 a.m.
Boone had originally listed both Victory Park and Exchange Park on her application, but told the board she was open to suggestions on the best location. She said East Exchange Park seemed like a good fit because Victory Park is close to the railroad tracks, which could interfere with the event.
Board Chair Tina Swinehart said if Boone tries East Exchange Park and later finds it does not work well for the yoga classes, she could apply to switch locations if another park is available.
Swinehart also explained that the city does not currently have a general fee structure for park use, though pavilion rentals are charged. For park use, she said the city is currently accepting donations.
Boone asked whether the city had a platform to help advertise approved events. Swinehart said Boone would need to handle her own advertising because she is not a city employee. Service Director Tony Valerius said temporary signs could be placed during the event but must be removed when the event ends.
The board voted 5-0 to approve the use of East Exchange Park for the community yoga classes.
Saturday concerts will bring local music to Friendship, Victory parks
The board also approved a request from Joe Price for a series of Saturday community concerts.
Price said the concerts have been held for the past two years and will again feature local musicians. He told the board the performers are not professionals, but people who enjoy playing music and want a chance to perform for the community.
The Saturday community concerts are scheduled for:
- June 27, 7 p.m., Sax Machine at Friendship Park
- Aug. 1, 7 p.m., Windjammers at Victory Park
- Aug. 8, 7 p.m., Solid Brass at Victory Park
- Aug. 15, 7 p.m., Vermilion Community Concert Band at Victory Park
Price said the June concert will be held at Friendship Park, while the August concerts will return to Victory Park. He said organizers previously held two concerts at Friendship Park, but found that later in the summer, downtown businesses also have outdoor music, making it harder for the concerts to compete.
Price said the concert groups are mostly self-sufficient and do not require much setup or cleanup time. He said the only major need is power at the gazebo at Friendship Park.
The board voted 5-0 to approve the use of Friendship Park and Victory Park for the concert series.