BY DEBBIE PAGE

Troutman Parks & Recreation Director Emily Watson and her staff have settled into their new digs next to the ESC Park entrance and are now in full swing with a variety of classes, events, and races coming up.

♦ On February 4 at Town Hall, Lisa Crates Photography and the Ruritan Club will be taking Valentine’s Day themed photos from 2 to 4 p.m. A $10 onsite donation is recommended to benefit the Ruritan Club’s bedroom renovation project benefitting My Sister’s House. Email Amber at award@troutmannc.gov to reserve a time slot.

♦ In a partnership with the First Methodist Church of Troutman, Troutman Parks and Rec is offering a four-week Beginners Sewing Course on Wednesdays in March. No experience or supplies are needed — just register and show up. This classes will be from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Cost is $30. Contact award@troutmannc.gov with questions. Register at https://secure.rec1.com/NC/troutman-nc/catalog.

♦ The 11th Annual Sprint Into Spring 5K/10K is on March 10 at 3 p.m. Cost is $20 for 5K and $25 for 10K and includes a T-shirt and medal. Watson said 55 runners are already signed up. Awards will be given to the top 3 in each age group. Walkers, strollers, and/or runners are welcome. The race begins at Town Hall at 400 N. Eastway Drive. The 10K course is the 5K course looped twice. Optional packet pick up is Friday, March 8, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Town Hall.

♦ The Youth Baseball Camp, open to all kids in grades 1-8, will be on Saturday, March 16, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at ESC Park. The camp will be led by the South Iredell High School baseball team coaching staff. A pizza lunch provided. The cost is $50 per child. Register at https://secure.rec1.com/NC/troutman-nc/catalog.

♦ The Spring Craft Expo is on Saturday, April 6, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m, at both South Iredell High School gymnasiums (299 Old Mountain Road) to double the size of this year’s event. Local crafters, vendors, artists, and bakers will have products for sale. Vendor spots are $50 and filling up fast. An early set-up is available the night before the event. Email award@troutmannc.gov with questions or for additional info.