Dinner on First: A Community Feast for Inclusive Play

Jordan Meggs • April 12, 2024

In our charming city of Cullman, Alabama, an event that marries gastronomy with philanthropy is set to unfold. The Cullman Parks, Recreation, & Sports Tourism Foundation is hosting its annual Dinner on First, an event that has become a beacon of community spirit and generosity. As it has been from it's inception, the dinner is not just a gathering but a pivotal fundraiser for a cause close to the heart of the community—the expansion and upgrade of the Heritage Park Splashpad and Playground.

A Night Under the Stars for a Cause

Scheduled for May 18, 2024, Dinner on First is more than a meal; it's an auction-style gala where attendees bid on their tables or individual seats as their dinner donation. The event is a testament to the community's commitment to inclusivity and joy, as all proceeds are earmarked for a project that ensures no child, regardless of ability, is left on the sidelines.

The Heritage Park Splashpad and Playground is a favorite spot where laughter and play are the common languages spoken by all children. The proposed expansion aims to create a more inclusive space, allowing families to enjoy the facilities together. The addition of accessible features will ensure that the park is a place where memories are made, and every child can partake in the universal joy of play

.

The Auction: Bidding for Betterment

The auction sets up the evening weeks prior, with 36 tables and 16 individual seats available for bidding. The competitive yet friendly bidding process highlights both the anticipation of the night as well as the spirit of generosity, with the community coming together to raise funds for the playground and splash pad expansion. The auction closes on April 17 at 11:00 PM, giving patrons ample time to place their bids and contribute to the cause.

The Fundraising Goal: A Vision of Play for All

The Cullman Parks & Recreation Foundation has set an ambitious fundraising goal of $100,000 for the project. This target reflects the scale of the vision: a playground and splash pad that serve as a haven for children of all ages and abilities. The Foundation's commitment to diversity, inclusion, and accessibility is evident in this endeavor, as they strive to ensure that recreational play is a right afforded to every child.

A Community United

Dinner on First is more than just an event; it's a symbol of the Cullman community's unity and dedication to improving the lives of its youngest residents. The dinner offers a splendid moment for residents to connect with friends, neighbors, and the dedicated members of the Cullman Parks & Recreation Foundation Board. It's a night to remember, not only for the gourmet dinner and live music but for the extraordinary lengths the community goes to support a meaningful cause.

As the date for Dinner on First approaches, the excitement within the Cullman community is palpable. The event promises to be a night of connection, celebration, and, most importantly, a step toward a future where every child can play without barriers. The Heritage Park Splashpad and Playground expansion is a project that embodies the spirit of Cullman—a spirit of inclusivity, joy, and unwavering community support.

For more information about Dinner on First, the auction, and the fundraising project, please visit the Cullman Parks and Recreation Foundation's official page at https://www.cullmanrecreation.org/dinner-on-first.

Dinner on First Website

< Older Post Newer Post >

Youth Baseball, Softball, and T-Ball Registration Now Open at Cullman Parks & Rec

By Jordan Meggs • January 13, 2025

Spring is just around the corner, and that means it's time to sign up your young athletes for baseball, softball, and t-ball with Cullman Parks, Recreation, and Sports Tourism. Whether your child is a seasoned player or stepping onto the diamond for the first time, our youth sports programs offer a fantastic opportunity for children ages 3-12 to learn, grow, and have fun. Registration for the 2024 spring season is currently open and will continue through February 13th. Don't delay in securing your child's spot, as our programs consistently draw enthusiastic participation from throughout the Cullman community. Program Overview Our comprehensive youth baseball and softball programs are designed to accommodate children at various skill and age levels. For our youngest athletes (starting at age 3), t-ball provides the perfect introduction to baseball fundamentals. As children progress through the age groups up to 12 years old, they'll develop their skills, understanding of the game, and teamwork abilities. Important Dates to Remember Registration Period: Now through February 13, 2024 Player Evaluations: Week of February 17 (specific dates vary by age group) Practice Start Date: First week of March Season Opening: Games begin in April Player Evaluations The week of February 17 marks an important milestone in our season preparation, as we'll conduct player evaluations. These assessments help us create balanced teams and ensure every child is placed in an appropriate skill level group. Your child's specific evaluation date will depend on their age group, and detailed information will be provided upon registration. What to Expect Once teams are formed, practices will commence in the first week of March. This gives our young athletes plenty of time to build team chemistry, work on fundamental skills, and prepare for the excitement of the regular season. Games will begin in April, running through the spring months. Our dedicated coaches focus on: Teaching proper baseball/softball fundamentals Developing good sportsmanship Building confidence and self-esteem Creating a positive, encouraging environment Fostering a love for the game Benefits of Youth Baseball and Softball Participating in organized baseball and softball helps children develop not just athletic skills, but also important life skills. Players learn the value of teamwork, develop leadership abilities, and build confidence through achievement. The physical benefits include improved hand-eye coordination, overall fitness, and motor skills development. Get Ready for the Season As you prepare for registration, make sure you have: Proof of your child's age Current contact information Any relevant medical information Appropriate clothing and equipment (detailed lists will be provided) Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of Cullman's vibrant youth sports community. Register your child today and help them create lasting memories, develop valuable skills, and experience the joy of America's favorite pastime. For more information about registration, equipment requirements, or any other questions, please contact Cullman Parks, Recreation, and Sports Tourism directly. We look forward to another exciting season of youth baseball, softball, and t-ball in Cullman!

A man in a wheelchair is playing baseball with a group of people behind a chain link fence.

Celebrating Our Incredible CPRST Volunteers

By Jamie Kirk • November 12, 2024

At Cullman Parks, Recreation, and Sports Tourism, we are beyond grateful for the dedicated volunteers who bring our events to life. To all of our volunteers, thank you for your remarkable contributions. Together, we are building a vibrant community that values the arts, inclusivity, and youth development. Your support makes all the difference! Shining a Spotlight on our Amazing Community Theatre Members Their passion for the arts has enriched our special events and created unforgettable experiences for everyone involved. Whether they are performing on stage, crafting immersive experiences, or utilizing their creative talents behind the scenes, these volunteers add an extraordinary touch to our community. Their unwavering commitment to the arts inspires us all, and we cannot thank them enough for their hard work and dedication. A Heartfelt Thanks to Wallace State Community College We also want to express our gratitude to our wonderful partners at Wallace State Community College . The support we receive from their students and staff is nothing short of incredible. They consistently go above and beyond to ensure our special events run smoothly. From assisting with event logistics to engaging with attendees, Wallace State’s involvement is crucial to our success. Their enthusiasm and energy help create unforgettable experiences for everyone who participates. Thank you, Wallace State, for your continued partnership—we look forward to many more fantastic events together! Ballet South: Elevating Our Events with Grace We are proud to collaborate with Ballet South, whose artistry and grace have significantly enhanced our special events. Their performances bring a touch of elegance and cultural enrichment to our community, captivating attendees and leaving a lasting impression. Ballet South’s dedication to the arts helps us create a vibrant atmosphere that exceeds expectations. Whether performing on stage or supporting behind the scenes, they are an invaluable part of our success. Thank you, Ballet South, for sharing your talent and passion with us! Honoring the Pilot Club’s Dedication We are incredibly thankful for the unwavering support of the Pilot Club . Their members have played a vital role in the success of our Archery Tournament and Therapeutic Recreation programs. Their dedication to service and willingness to help whenever needed exemplify true community spirit. The Pilot Club’s contributions ensure that participants of all abilities can enjoy our events in an inclusive and welcoming environment. Thank you, Pilot Club, for your commitment to our mission—you truly make a difference! A Big Shout-Out to Our Amazing Volunteer Coaches Finally, we want to recognize our incredible volunteer coaches who make our youth sports programs thrive. These dedicated individuals invest their time and energy to mentor young athletes, imparting valuable life skills that extend far beyond the game. The impact of our volunteer coaches is profound—they not only teach sports but also foster confidence, leadership, and teamwork in the youth they coach. We cannot thank you enough for your dedication to shaping the future of our community. Your efforts are creating lasting change!