Hello Alamosa! I want to express my gratitude to the Parks Division team for their outstanding work in lighting up our city for the holidays. The beautiful holiday decorations and lights you see are all thanks to their efforts. 

This month, I want to talk about something vital to our community's well-being: our parks and recreation amenities. While most appreciate our parks, trails, open spaces, and recreational facilities and programs for their obvious contribution to our health and quality of life, we sometimes overlook the vital role they play in economic development. Nationally, local parks and recreation agencies generate over $201 billion in economic activity and support nearly 1.1 million jobs. Parks enhance quality of life, making communities more attractive to both employees and businesses. They contribute to employee attraction and retention and boost tourism.   

Here in Alamosa, we're fortunate to have a robust parks system and a big selection of affordable recreation programs. From pickleball to paddleboarding to oil painting, 24+ miles of trails, and 300 acres of developed parkland, there's something for everyone!   

We're also working on exciting new projects like developing more river access at Cole Park with the Rio Grande Headwaters Restoration Project. This project will transform how our community interacts with the Rio Grande. Cattails Golf Course is gaining a regional reputation as the place to golf, and our trails are expanded and improved every year. 

You can play a direct role in supporting our parks by joining the "Adopt a Park or Trail" program. You can find more information on the program and a link to apply on the City’s website. Even a few hours a month can make a difference! 

I hold fond childhood memories of my family and I enjoying our neighborhood parks and recreation amenities in Houston, Texas. While my mom and dad played softball, my brother and I took part in other sports activities. I experienced both the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat, lessons that have positively shaped my life ever since. 

One way to enjoy our parks and trails this winter is by participating in the annual Rio Frio Race, Jan. 24-26. This unique event features a 5k race on the frozen Rio Grande, with races for all ages. Don't miss the spectacular ice sculpture carving and the cozy bonfire on San Juan Avenue. For the truly adventurous, take the plunge in the Rio Frio Polar Plunge at Blanca Vista Pond! It's a winter wonderland experience you won't want to miss! Lace up your shoes and join the fun! 

Let's celebrate and enjoy our parks and recreation opportunities while recognizing their profound impact on our community's economic well-being. The benefits extend far beyond the smiles of children on the playground. 

I'm grateful to be part of this amazing community. Wishing you all warmth and joy this holiday season. As always, let's continue to collaborate and support each other as a TEAM: Together Everyone Achieves More! Have a super-fantastic day and don’t let anyone steal your joy!