Columbus Recreation and Parks is promoting a free wildlife open house at McKnight Outdoor Education Center, 3228 Indian Village Road, on Thursday evenings from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. Each session pairs an informational talk with self-guided activities on a different nature topic. All ages are welcome, and children need to be accompanied by an adult. Signing up is encouraged but not mandatory.
Free fall hockey programming still has room for young players at every experience level, including an intermediate and advanced roller hockey option plus skills-and-drills sessions grouped for ages 6-8, 8-12, and 12-17. The city notes capacity is limited and directs families to register.
The Priscilla R. Tyson Cultural Arts Center is running October workshops covering book binding, drawing, photography and writing, described as open to a range of interests and skill levels.
Barack Community Center remains closed while roof repairs move forward. According to the city, the damaged roof has not been tarped because covering it is neither safe nor practical given the damage type, and leaving it exposed is not causing further harm; airflow is helping the building dry and lowering mold risk. Equipment and other areas were protected, authorizations secured and contractors hired. Fall programs relocated to Marion Franklin and Driving Park, and Saturday morning youth basketball moved to Marion Franklin. The stated reopening target is late spring 2027.
Volunteer work days include Oct. 3 at Alkire Woods Park, an Oct. 22 Broadmeadows street tree planting with the Forestry section and FLOW, Oct. 28 Trail or Treat at Ottawa Lodge, Nov. 14 at Mock Park and Nov. 21 at Tuttle Park. Also listed: a free Cleveland Browns youth flag football clinic Oct. 6, 6-8 p.m., at Kilbourne Run Sports Park, and mobile produce markets Oct. 8 at Dodge and Holton and Oct. 9 at Barnett and Far East community centers.