October 8, 2014 THE VILLADOM TIMES I • Page 9 Midland Park Summer rec program is successful enterprise The Midland Park summer camp pro- gram is turning out to be very profitable for the borough. Councilman Mark Braunius reported at a recent mayor and council meeting that over the past five years, the program has shown a profit of $71,823. The profit has exceeded $20,000 in each of the past three years. Expenses have remained relatively con- stant, from $56,481 in 2010 to $55,944 in 2014. The recreation director’s salary is not factored into these figures, Braunius said. The program’s popularity has gone up over the past several years, with 289 camp- ers enrolled in 2011 to 372 in 2014. The numbers went up substantially in 2012 when participation was open to Waldwick residents at the same fee as Midland Park Lighting up the night Christy Dell’Aglio, Ralph Warner, Dan Parker, Shannon Hall, Bill Dell’Aglio, and Tricia Tuozzo enjoying Pantherfest, an Oktoberfest hosted by the Midland Park Junior Football/Cheer- leading Association. German cuisine, beverages, and music were highlighted at this event – the first outdoor party at the Wortendyke Park pavilion in Midland Park since lighting was installed. youngsters. Over 100 Waldwick campers participated in 2014. Waldwick reciprocates by allowing Midland Park residents of all ages to use the municipal pool at in-town rates. “I think the director and the staff are doing a very admirable job, and the number of campers speaks for itself. It shows that the program is a good experience for our youth,” Braunius said. The camp runs for six weeks daily until 1 p.m., with extended hours offered until 4 p.m. Campers pay $65 a week for the first child in the family, $50 for a second child, and $40 each for three or more children, with a maximum of $155 per week per family. The extended program is an addi- tional $50 per week. Braunius’ report prompted a resident at the meeting to suggest that the camp fee be reduced to make the program more affordable. Braunius said at the request of parents, the Board of Recreation is consid- ering adding another week or longer hours to the program. He said going past mid- August, however, interferes with the use of the fields by the fall sports programs, which begin conditioning camps and practices at that time in anticipation of the season open- ing. Councilman Bernie Holst said he sup- ported extending the program as well. “The kids seem to love it. The staff has been wonderful, and everything runs very smoothly,” said Recreation Director Kathy LaMonte. “I’m happy with it.” Braunius said the board of recreation would be evaluating the program as it pre- pares its 2015 budget. He said residents are invited to attend board of recreation meet- ings and provide input for future program- ming. Through the years, the program has offered swimming at area pools and weekly field trips, among other offerings.