Syracuse Parks and Recreation board heard committee and department reports at the meeting Monday evening. Jerry Riffle reported the tree board continues to work on planting sites for the parks. Riffle also provided information about the black walnut twig beetle which was found in Indiana for the first time last week.

Department reports were presented by parks superintendent Chad Jonsson and program director Tyler McLead. Preparation for baseball activity has begun at the Harold Schrock Athletic Complex. Jonsson has received confirmation the trails committee will purchase a broom attachment for the new utility vehicle expected to be delivered in the coming weeks. Planning for the sprinkler system continues at the Syracuse Community Center. The utilities have been plotted in preparation for ground work ahead.

McLead announced a good turnout to the Easter egg hunts at the community center, as well as the Geocache egg hunt. Participants of all ages returned completed passports.

Upcoming events include Kids Safety Day 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 2, at the Syracuse Community Center. The free program will have a number of activities presented by area service groups.

The Artisan and Farmers Market will re-open 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 9, at Veteran’s Memorial Park at Crosson Mill. In addition to the regular vendors at the seasonal market, McLead reported Kids Market will be offered 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the second Saturday of the month, from May to October. Children ages 7 to 17 will have a designated area to create and sell original and handmade items. There is no cost to participate. Applications are required and can be picked up at the Syracuse Community Center and are available online at www.syracuseparks.org.

Take and make craft classes will be open to children of all ages free of charge 10 a.m. to noon, May 30 to Aug. 29, during the artisans market at Crosson Mill.

Syracuse Cruise-In is scheduled for 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, May 15, downtown Syracuse. A mud run is still in the planning stage and is planned for June 27, more information to come.

This weekend the community center will host a mother-son spring dance benefitting Rose Home, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are $20 per couple and $10 for each additional son. Registration continues through the week and can be made by calling Babes and Combs at (574) 457-4970, from noon until 6 p.m.

Reservations are required, but payment can be made at the door with cash or check.