Page 34 - 2025 Brighton VT Annual Report

2025 Brighton Recreation Committee Annual Report
Reflecting on a Year of Community, Growth, and Fun

It’s amazing how quickly another year has passed, and looking back, it’s clear that 2025 was filled with
excitement and progress for our Recreation Committee. We introduced several new events, continued to
build on long-term projects, and strengthened our commitment to serving the community. Planning for
the highly anticipated Tri-County Kid’s Fishing Tournament for 2026 began immediately after last year’s
tournament. This beloved event, which takes year-round preparation, is scheduled for the weekend of
February 27 to March 1. Supported by generous businesses and individuals across Orleans, Essex, and
Caledonia Counties, the tournament concludes with an awards ceremony and prize raffle. Each year we
welcome new participants, watching young anglers develop their skills and a lasting love for fishing in
Vermont.

Throughout the past year, committee members were able to channel their enthusiasm and curiosity
into a wide variety of activities for people of all ages. We kicked off summer with a thorough cleaning
and refresh of our playground, creating a safe and inviting setting for our summer equipment program.
Thanks to the dedication of our community, 2026 marks the third consecutive year we’re able to provide
free access to sports balls and equipment in our park. This initiative thrives because our residents
consistently care for and return equipment after use, demonstrating a true spirit of cooperation.

Summer of 2025 was all about exploring new hobbies and fostering connections. With the invaluable
help of volunteers, we hosted pickleball clinics, children’s archery, an adult axe throwing session,
and even a full moon kayak outing that drew over 30 participants. As autumn arrived, we held popular
favorites like the Pond-A-thon and the Great Island Pond Canoe Race, which welcomed kayakers back
to the competition. When winter settled in, our focus shifted to indoor programming to keep everyone
engaged and active through the colder months. On Friday nights, the gymnasium becomes a lively hub for
middle schoolers during open gym sessions. We’ve also partnered with local facilities to provide fitness
options such as cardio drumming, yoga, and circuit training. On Sunday evenings, the town hall gym
transforms into a space for ping-pong and cribbage, and we’ve adapted the gym for indoor playground
activities for young children and obstacle-filled Nerf battles.

Looking ahead, the Recreation Committee is committed to continuing our tradition of open, inclusive
events that bring the community together. With the growing interest in tennis and the popularity of our
clinics, we’ve noticed that our tennis courts—boasting one of the best views in the Northeast Kingdom—
are showing signs of wear. To ensure they
remain a valuable asset for years to come,
we have allocated $12,000 for necessary
repairs and improvements.

Our committee is already hard at work
planning programming for 2026, promising
even more adventures, clinics, and
activities. Many of our events are inspired
by community members who want to share
their passions. If you have an idea or vision Brighton Recreation Full Moon Paddle
for a new program, we encourage you to August 9, 2025
reach out—whether at a meeting, by email,
or by phone—so we can help bring your ideas to life. Thank you for another wonderful year, and here’s to
many more memories together!

32 Town of Brighton, VT