Kids Summer Fun Guide

YOUR FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD REC CENTER's offerings of camps, carnivals, socials, dances, sports, classes, tournaments, and clubs are so immense that we could take up many, many more pages listing them all. Instead, drop by your favorite center or library and pick up the Austin Parks and Recreation Department's Offical Summer Programs Directory. Need we remind you that these are your tax dollars at work/use it or lose it/etc. etc.? Nah, you knew that already. Austin PARD Administration: 499-6700. Playground & Summer Programs: 499-6738. Recreation Centers main line: 499-6738. http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/parks/default.htm

AUSTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY What better way to turn your pack of bored, noisy children into church mice? Send 'em to the library. The Austin Public Library presents their annual Summer Reading Program at all their branch locations starting in June. This year's program theme is "Invent the Future -- Read!" The eight-week program aims to encourage children to maintain and improve their reading skills. Participants will receive incentives for improving their reading skills and level. Even children who don't read yet can participate, because there are regularly scheduled storytimes. Also included are arts and crafts, films, safety programs, and other special events. Best of all, it's free. Begins Jun 5. General info 499-7301, children's programs 499-7465. http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/library/default.htm.

AUSTIN PARD AQUATICS PROGRAMS Don't miss impending registration deadlines for Austin PARD's Aquatics Programs, teaching swimming in 14 different age- and skill- based divisions to kids six months and up, springboard diving for ages 8 and up, and water aerobics for ages 16 and up. Session I begins May 8 (sorry, registration deadline has passed); session II begins June 5 (mail/drop-off deadline May 26; walk-in registration May 27-Jun 1). Sessions III-VIII run Jun 19-Sep 8. For complete schedule, forms, and registration info: Aquatics Office: 901 W. Riverside, 480-3030. http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/parks/aquatics.htm.