Syracuse Parks and Recreation board reinstated Mary Hursh for another term as a member of the committee during its regular monthly meeting Monday evening. Jason Traycoff reported he will not be returning for another term but is willing to assist in other ways. The board continues to look for a replacement to fill the available seat.

In other park news, Chad Jonsson reported a significant increase in the fitness room usage since the beginning of the year. The newly expanded space along with the new equipment is attracting more guests. Jonsson pointed out on the community center utilization summary, 132 people used the fitness room in January 2014. During November 310 people used the center’s fitness facility. The board was encourage by the increased traffic that was generated, in part, by word of mouth.

The Harold Shrock Athletic Complex ice rink has been set up, however, the weather hasn’t cooperated well enough to open the ice rink. The parks department is considering future activities for the rink once it is ready for use.

In regards to the Lakeside Park pavilion plans, the superintendent returned a proposal by Pacemaker Building with the features similar to the Crosson Mill pavilion. However, the quote did not include all the amenities the board had discussed. Jonsson suggested the restrooms would have to be completed by a different company. The superintendent will continue to gather addition quotes for the board to consider. In conclusion Jonsson reported the parks department will be mowing and maintaining the Laudeman Park area in the spring.

Tyler McLead reported to the board information of recent and upcoming community center events. Weekly programs judo, Rock Solid and pickle ball continue. The adult basketball league will be forming in 2015 with registration open until Jan. 2, for a fee of $275. Roster forms and rules can be found online at www.syracusein.org.

The community responded well for the breakfast with Santa event held Saturday. Kiwanis members served approximately 600 plates at breakfast. Letters to Santa was equally successful. The center collected 119 letters from area boys and girls.

January events include the winter carnival, scheduled Jan. 30 and 31. The carnival weekend begins Friday with a Kiwanis Club soup supper and snowmobile races will be held Saturday. McLead concluded by announcing he will attend the state parks and recreation conference in Michigan City, Jan. 14 to 16.