On a recent Tuesday evening at Veterans Memorial Park, the Bat Cats were playing baseball on Al Burns Field, the softball diamonds were full, the disc golf league was on the course, walkers used the road and path, and families with kids were swarming the playground.

On a recent weekend, a 45-team Hap Dumont Baseball tournament took over the Great Bend Sports Complex.

Last week, June Jaunt packed the Barton County Courthouse Square with arts, crafts, entertainment and other activities. Meanwhile, the Wetlands Aquatic Center and the Brit Spaugh Zoo entertained people of all ages.

This was all in Great Bend. Parks, walking paths, ball fields and other facilities in Claflin, Ellinwood and Hoisington were also busy.

Beyond this, walkers and cyclists of all ages roamed the streets and sidewalks. They could also be seen on the paths along the Arkansas River.

This was all good to see.

We are blessed in Barton County with communities that put a value of parks and outdoor recreation. There is a lot to pick from.

Sure, it has been warm. But, with precautions like staying hydrated and applying sunscreen, there are few reasons why we can’t take advantage of all that is available.

Get out. Take in a game or City Band concert, jog, ride a bike, take the dog for a walk or just find a bench with a shade tree and watch the world go by.

There really is something for everyone.

Dale Hogg