VOL. 26
ISSUE 1
WINTER/SPRING 2026
Pelican
THE
Watch
New Skate Park Coming Soon! Page 9
Pickleball Kitchen Chronicles Page 16
Environmental Education Page 21
RECREATION DISTRICT #1 | PELICAN PARK
Table of Contents
RecreationDistrict#1 OF ST. TAMMANY PARISH Making a Difference in the Lives of Children & Adults!
pg 6
63350 Pelican Drive Mandeville, LA 70448 985-626-7997 PelicanPark.com CONTACT US!
Board of Commissioners Nixon Adams, Chairman Shearn Lemoine, Vice-Chairman Rick Danielson John Neill deShea Richardson, J.D. Barrett McGuire Ed Bee Directors: Suzanne Fisher, Executive Director Doug McLemore, Assistant Director - Parks Borato Broughton, Assistant Director - Recreation Scott Goodwill, Chief Finance Officer LyKinda Thibodeaux, HR/People Operations Director Niki Butler, Marketing & PR Director Louisette Scott, Planning & Environmental Education Director Melissa Garcia, Grants & Contracts Manager Superintendents/Supervisors/Specialists: Catherine Barbier, Castine Superintendent Ron Johnson, Park Superintendent Jesse Williams, Turf Superintendent Dominic Palisi, Information Systems Specialist Kevin Lewis, Castine Supervisor Brennan Kuss, Recreation Supervisor - Boys Adults Chad Groover, Recreation Supervisor - Football/Camps/Clinics Matt Bettencourtt, Facility Staff Taylor Lewis, Facility Staff Castine Center Staff: Paige Bailey, Functional Coordinator Gabriel Martinez - Facility Staff - Castine Center Admin Staff: Melissa Smith, Office Manager Tonya Rosevally, Administrative Assistant Shannon Holland, Accountant Brandi Savoy, Accounting Specialist Environmental Education: Alex Landry, Naturalist & Environmental Education Coordinator Stephanie Welsh, Environmental and Planetarium Programs Leon Zebrick, Local Astronomer and Volunteer Ray Duplantier, Concessions Supervisor Recreation Supervisors and Staff: Carly Arthur, Recreation Supervisor II - Girls
4
Director’s Message
5
Board of Commissioners
6
Park Update
Pelican Park Hours 7am - 9pm Daily Office Hours 8am - 5pm Mondays - Fridays
24 Hour Hotline 985-626-1444 Facility Staff 4pm - 9pm 985-966-6645
8
Facilities
10 The Groves
12 Park Map
pg 11
Facebook & Instagram @PelicanParkMandeville
14 Youth Sports
15 Sports & Leisure Programs
16 Pickleball Kitchen Chronicles
pg 16
18 Upcoming Events
19. Recent Events in Review
Recreation District #1 is a free-standing governmental agency. The District is supported by a property tax paid by the residents and businesses within the Recreation District. The general boundaries of the Recreation District are Lake Pontchartrain on the south side, the Tchefuncte River on the west side, Big Branch on the east side and Three Rivers Road on the north side. The District, which operates Pelican Park, is under the direction of a seven-member Board of Commissioners.
pg 10
Thank You for Attending!
21 Environmental Education
Pelican Park Nature Club
Species Spotlight
Native Irises
2 | Recreation District #1 of St. Tammany Parish
Pelican Watch Vol. 26 Issue 1 | 3
Executive Director’s Message As we begin 2026, I want to take a moment to reflect on what an incredibly busy and successful year 2025 was for Pelican Park. Over the past year, we welcomed more than 1.2 million vehicles through the gates, representing approximately 3,000,000 visitors, and we proudly served 8,890 registered program participants. These numbers demonstrate how essential Pelican Park is to our Parish. The momentum we experienced throughout 2025 was truly
remarkable. We expanded programs, hosted major tournaments, strengthened partnerships, and made significant improvements to the facilities while enhancing the overall participant experience. Our staff, board members, volunteers, sponsors, community partners, and families who participate in programs and events played a vital role in every success. Their dedication and passion continue to shape Pelican Park into a place where recreation, community, and connection thrive. As we look ahead, I’m excited for the programs, tournaments, and events already scheduled for the first half of 2026. Our focus remains on elevating quality, increasing accessibility, and creating meaningful experiences for participants of all ages. Whether you join us for youth sports, adult leagues, special events, or community celebrations, we are committed to serving you with excellence, professionalism, and pride. Thank you for being part of the Pelican Park family. Together, we will continue building a vibrant, active, and memorable year ahead. Here’s to a strong start to 2026 and to everything we will accomplish as One Park, One Team. Suzanne Fisher Suzanne Fisher Executive Director
Recreation District #1 is a free standing governmental agency under the direction of a seven member Board of Commissioners. The Board meets every third Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Castine Center Conference rooms. The Board has special meetings as needed. All regular, special and committee meetings are advertised in accordance with State Public meeting laws. The public is invited to all meetings. Public comment in accordance with Board rules of procedure is allowed on each agenda item. If you are interested in having a new item addressed at the meeting, please contact the Director at suzannefisher@pelicanpark.com preferably a week in advance to be added to the agenda.
Both full and part-time positions available. For full details about the following positions or to fill out an employment application, please visit our website at: pelicanpark.com under About/Employment/HR or you can apply at the Pelican Park office, inside of the Castine Center at: 63350 Pelican Drive, Mandeville, LA. Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm Employment Opportunities - Join Our Team at Pelican Park! Volunteer Coaches
Recreational Park Volunteer (Non-Coaching) Concession Attendant - Hiring Now for Spring Parks – Field and Grounds Maintenance Park Event Center Attendant – Part Time
4 | Recreation District #1 of St. Tammany Parish
Pelican Watch Vol. 26 Issue 1 | 5
Pelican Park Updates
Meet TOT...Titan of Turf! Please welcome the newest member of the Pelican Park team...TOT, our Robotic Field Painter! Over the past couple of months, TOT has been rolling across our fields, turning grass into game-day masterpieces. Just in time for football season, TOT outdid himself by completing not one, but two incredible field designs for several of our game day matchups. From perfectly painted Pelican Park logos at midfield to bold PELICANS stretching across both end zones, every line, number, and mark was dialed in just right. TOT also wanted to give a big shout-out to his “teacher,” Jesse Williams, for making it all possible. Thanks to Jesse’s guidance, TOT went from sitting in a crate to living the artist’s dream...painting championship-ready fields for the community.
6 | Recreation District #1 of St. Tammany Parish
Pelican Watch Vol. 26 Issue 1 | 7
Pelican Park Facilities
Skate Park Out with the old…in with the new! Exciting Updates... New Skate Park Progress
Skaters and outdoor enthusiasts, the wait is almost over! The all-wheel skate park is coming together beautifully, and each week brings new progress. From multi-level concrete bowls and banks to long grind rails and smooth pump tracks, the team is putting the finishing touches on features that will thrill riders of all ages. More concrete is being poured daily, shaping curves, straightaways, and flat areas with careful attention to detail. The pump track and skating bowl are nearing their final stages, and it’s clear that this skate park will be an incredible space to ride, carve, and have fun. We know everyone is excited to see the park in action. For safety reasons and to ensure everything stays on track before opening day, please stay behind the fence and do not access the skate park until it officially opens. Your patience helps protect the park and ensures a safe, ready-to-ride space for everyone!
Three Dog Parks Enjoy adventure and fun at the Dog Parks
Let your pup explore, play, and enjoy the outdoors at one of three dog parks managed by Recreation District #1. These spaces are designed for energetic play, socializing, and quality time together. Whether your dog loves to run, meet new friends, or simply enjoy open green space, the dog parks offer a happy environment for all kinds of canine fun. These areas are also perfect for helping your dog develop good manners and healthy social behaviors. With plenty of room to roam, your pet can stay active, meet other dogs, and become a well-rounded companion. Pelican Park features two on-site dog parks at the back of the property—one for larger breeds and one dedicated to smaller dogs. Don’t forget about Pretty Acres Dog Park in Covington, LA. This peaceful off-site location features a gazebo, trees, and generous space for your pup to explore. You can find it on Andrew Drive, just off Highway 190. Be a responsible dog owner and park user by reviewing the park rules and supervising your pets responsibly. Disc Golf Relax and Play at The Pines Disc Golf Course Looking for a fun way to enjoy time outdoors and get your steps in? The Pines Disc Golf Course offers a relaxing place for solo players, families, and friends to enjoy the game. Much like traditional golf, disc golf challenges players to throw a disc toward a basket target, with the fewest throws determining the winner. You’ll also notice some recent updates to the course. With the expansion of the skatepark, local disc golf professionals have relocated several baskets to create an exciting new layout that adds variety and fun to your experience. The course was recently updated with 36 MVP Black Hole Portal baskets, allowing for a Short (Black) and Long (Red) position option on each hole, along with updated signage and several new hole layouts. There are now two course options to enjoy, giving players of all skill levels a fresh and challenging experience each time they play. For more information on upcoming disc golf tournament please see the Events Page. Sand Volleyball Courts Jump Into Action at the Sand Volleyball Courts The sand volleyball courts near the Silver Fields are open year-round and ready for everything from friendly matches and practice sessions to casual play. The soft, sandy terrain adds a fun challenge to the game, whether you're fine-tuning your skills or enjoying time with friends. Courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis for anyone looking to stay active.
8 | Recreation District #1 of St. Tammany Parish
Pelican Watch Vol. 26 Issue 1 | 9
The Groves
The Groves at Pelican Park SPONSORED BY Cedar Grove Health Solutions
Bike Rentals at The Groves in Pelican Park Canoe and Trail now offers youth and adult bike rentals at The Groves, conveniently located near the outdoor fitness area. Reservations can be made in advance or on-site through https://www.canoeandtrail.com/ bike.com. Once reserved, an online dashboard allows waiver completion and bike unlocking—no additional app required. Starting from Pelican Park provides easy access to multiple trailheads at Northlake Nature Center and along the Trace. Trails feature natural scenery, smooth concrete paths through the park, and lakefront routes along the Trace. Rental Options Two, four, eight, or twenty-four hour rentals Fees vary by bike type and age No restrictions on where to ride; bikes must be returned to the tent area after use Enjoy fresh air, exercise, and a new perspective of Pelican Park and surrounding trails.
SAVE THE DATE Battle of the Bands Saturday, March 21, 2026 Time: 5 PM – 8 PM Covington Concert Band – Spring Concert Thursday, April 16, 2026 Time: 7:30 PM – 9 PM Alt’R Ego Concert Circle Saturday, April 18, 2026 Time: 5 PM – 8 PM
The Groves already offers an array of amenities, including Pelicans Landing pavilion, outdoor fitness equipment, and scenic walking paths. But we’re continuing to enhance the area with new opportunities for recreation and relaxation. The Groves has had an exciting year, with continued growth and a variety of community events. A recent concert by local favorite Four Unplugged drew hundreds of attendees enjoying live music, food, beverages, and vendors, creating a memorable night that brought the community together. Upcoming events include ALT’R Ego on April 18 from 5–8 PM, as well as performances like Battle of the Bands and the Covington Concert Band Spring Concert. Follow social media channels for the latest updates and event announcements. These events have been highly successful, with many more planned for 2026.
Pickleball Courts More pickleball courts are coming soon. Due to growing interest in the sport, Pelican Park will expand with four new pickleball courts at The Groves. This popular area has quickly become a destination for players of all skill levels. Pickleball offers a great cardio workout and helps improve balance, agility, and coordination, making it an excellent way to stay active while connecting with others. With the expansion, The Groves will offer even more room for casual play, community gatherings, and exciting events, whether you're here for a game, a concert, or a special celebration. Pelican Park currently offers eight pickleball courts, open daily from 7 am to 9 pm with evening lighting available. Courts are first-come, first-served, though availability may vary due to park programs, rentals, or tournaments. Thank you for your patience as improvements continue. Even more exciting updates are on the way as The Groves continues to grow...
Adult Exercise Equipment Get active in the fresh air at The Groves! Our expanded adult outdoor fitness area offers 10 specialized exercise stations designed to help improve strength, endurance, and overall wellness using your own body weight for resistance. Set in a shaded area overlooking a scenic pond with soothing fountains, it’s the perfect spot to warm up before a pickleball game, cool down after a bike ride, or simply enjoy a peaceful, full-body workout surrounded by nature. Come out, breathe in the fresh air, and make fitness a part of your day!
Pelicans Landing Temporary Closure Please note that Pelicans Landing will be temporarily closed during construction of the additional pickleball courts. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we make these exciting improvements. Once construction is complete, Pelicans Landing will once again be the perfect venue for your next event. This adaptable open-air pavilion is ideal for office celebrations, birthday parties, team gatherings, and other special occasions. The versatile layout can be arranged to fit your needs for both daytime and evening events. Ready to book or need more information once construction is complete? Call us at 985-626-7997. We look forward to helping you create a memorable experience...
10 | Recreation District #1 of St. Tammany Parish
Pelican Watch Vol. 26 Issue 1 | 11
Recreation District #1 Adds FREE Sunscreen Kiosks to Promote Sun Safety
Skate Park Under Construction (See article page 9)
Recreation District #1 is helping visitors enjoy the outdoors while staying sun-safe. Throughout the park, educational signage from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) shares practical tips for protecting skin year-round. To make sun protection even easier, free sunscreen kiosks have been installed at the Pickleball Courts and the Red Complex. These convenient stations allow visitors to apply sunscreen while enjoying outdoor activities. The initiative is open to community support, and new sponsors are welcome to help place additional kiosks in high-traffic areas. For sponsorship information, contact the front office at (985) 626-7997. Pelican Park is excited to announce that we are now proudly serving PJ’s Coffee at several of our facilities! Guests can enjoy a refreshing selection of beverages including regular and iced coffee, tea, and lemonade. You’ll find PJ’s Coffee available at the White and Brown Gyms, as well as at the Red, Orange, and Gold Field Concessions. Stop by, grab a drink, and fuel up for your day at the Park! Pelican Park is Proudly Serving PJ's Coffee!
Event Stage (Follow social media for our next concerts)
Recreation District #1 Pelican Park has 19 AED’s (Automated External Defribulators) on campus.
This symbol shows where each one is located along with NARCAN for emergencies.
12 | Recreation District #1 of St. Tammany Parish
Pelican Watch Vol. 26 Issue 1 | 13
Older Boys Basketball (Ages 13–18, Age as of September 1, 2025) Girls Volleyball (Ages 7–15, Age as of July 1, 2026) Registration has closed, and teams are currently being formed. Evaluations: January 20 - 24 Team Formations: January 26 - 30 Youth Sports Early Spring Basketball & Volleyball
Adult Sports & Leisure Programs Adult Sports Sessions: Pelican Park offers a variety of adult sports to serve the community. The purpose of the leagues is to provide an outlet for adults to continue to play their favorite sport, have fun, stay fit, and socialize. The Park offers three (3) levels of play for the adult leagues. Competitive Volleyball This division is for the more aggressive player who wants to play the sport at a highly competitive level with no restrictions. No Officials Recreational Volleyball This division is for the less aggressive player who wants to play the sport at a slightly lower competitive level with no restrictions. No Officials Just For Fun Volleyball This division is for fun, socialization, and exercise. No Spiking and underhand serves only. No Officials Recreation Softball Co-Ed & Men’s This division is for fun, socialization, and exercise. There are umpires for softball. Individual Registration: Participants will register individually online or in-person. Make sure to add your team captain and team name into the “notes” section during registration.
Summer Boys & Girls Basketball, Older Girls Volleyball Boys Summer Basketball (7-18) - Age of Date: September 1, 2026 Girls Summer Basketball (7-12) - Age of Date: September 1, 2026 Older Girls Volleyball (13-15) - Age of Date: July 1, 2026 Lil Dribblers (4-5) - Age of Date: September 1, 2026 6 year old Girls and Boys Clinic - Age of Date: September 1, 2026 Registration Dates: April 20 - May 17 Late Week Registration (additional $25): May 18 - 22
Session 1 • Captain’s Only Registration - January 26 - 30 • Players Registration - January 31 - February 6 • Games Start - Week of February 15 • Competitive, Recreational, Just for Fun Volleyball & Co-Ed Softball - Thursdays • Men’s Softball - Sundays Session 2 • Captain’s Only Registration - April 20 - 24 • Players Registration - April 25 - May 1 • Games Start - Week of May 10 • Competitive, Recreational, Just for Fun Volleyball & Co-Ed Softball - Thursdays • Men’s Softball - Sundays Session 3 • Captain’s Only Registration - July 13 - July 17 • Players Registration - July 18 - July 24 • Games Start - August 2 • Competitive, Recreational, Just for Fun Volleyball & Co-Ed Softball - Thursdays • Men’s Softball - Sundays
Evaluations: May 28 - June 2 Team Formations: June 8 - 12 Practices Begin: June 15 Games Begin: July 6
Practices Begin: February 2 Games Begin: February 23
Spring Baseball & Softball
Boys Baseball (4-15) - Age of Date: May 1, 2026 Girls Softball (5-15) - Age of Date: August 31, 2025 Registration Dates: February 2 - 22 Late Week Registration (additional $25): February 23 - 27 Evaluations: March 2 - 7 Team Formations: March 11 - 13 Practices Begin: March 16 Games Begin: April 11
We are always looking to expand our Adult Leagues. Please email Brennan at brennankuss@pelicanpark.com with any suggestions or comments to help improve or expand our leagues
Leisure Programs at a Glance : Recreation District #1 offers a variety of leisure programs. Pre-registration is required for most programs. To register, call (985) 626-7997 or visit www.pelicanpark.com for more information, including detailed descriptions. Pelican Park Leisure Programs offer fun for everyone! With a variety of programs, Pelican Park hosts an average of five hundred classes per year including arts & crafts, personal development, health & well-being, outdoor adventure, and social activities. Pelican Park Leisure Programs welcomes children and adults to participate in a creative, educational, and entertaining atmosphere promoting a healthy body, mind, and spirit.
PARENT, PLAYER, COACH EJECTIONS Pelican Park maintains a zero-tolerance policy for violations of the Player, Parent, or Coach Code of Conduct. Any player, spectator, or coach who is ejected from a game—and whose ejection is deemed warranted—will be subject to a mandatory one-game suspension. In addition, the individual must complete a Sportsmanship Certification course provided by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) before returning to participate. This policy is strictly enforced to uphold the integrity, safety, and respect of our programs. IMPORTANT INFORMATION Thank you for being a part of the many camps and clinics we've had the pleasure of offering so far this year! Your participation and enthusiasm help make each event a success. If there are any specific camps or clinics you’d love to see in the future—or if you’re interested in leading one yourself—we’d love to hear from you! Please reach out to Chad Groover at chadgroover@pelicanpark.com with your ideas or inquiries. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to keep up-to-date on all of our leagues, programs, camps, clinics and events at Pelican Park. Be on the lookout for these upcoming sports Clinics ♦ Lacrosse ♦ Softball Clinic ♦ Baseball Clinic ♦ Boys Volleyball Clinic ♦ Girls Volleyball Clinic ♦ Fencing ♦ Pickleball Clinic ♦ Football Clinic
OPEN GYM Designated open gym times at Pelican Park are available throughout the week. Staff will be on site for check-ins, monitoring, and fee collection ($3 per player, per hour). All youth 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult (18+) at all times. Open gym availability may change based on Pelican Park’s scheduled programs. For more information, visit PelicanPark. com, call the Park Hotline at 985-626-1444, or contact Facility Staff at 985-966-6645.
Adult Classes One of a Kind Cards: Wednesdays – 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Stamping Cards: Mondays – 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Techniques with Robin Last Wednesdays of every month 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Wire Art Jewelry Wednesdays – 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Painting with Michelle Dates TBD Yarn it with Eve Dates TBD Canasta Every Wednesday 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM SHERIFF
Pelican Park is proud to partner with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office to help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for everyone who visits our facility. Their presence, professionalism, and ongoing support are an invaluable part of our community, and we are truly grateful for the time and service they dedicate to our park. As a friendly reminder, please make sure not to leave any valuables in your vehicle and always keep your car locked when unattended. Your awareness and cooperation help us all enjoy a safer experience at the park.
14 | Recreation District #1 of St. Tammany Parish
Pelican Watch Vol. 26 Issue 1 | 15
The Pickleball Kitchen Chronicles
CHAMPIONS
Pickleball Lessons, Clinics - Etc. Recreation District #1 is proud to partner with Ken and Vicki Winn to offer high-quality pickleball clinics, instructional lessons, and social play opportunities for players of all skill levels. Jan. 2026: Saturday, January 24th- Adult Beginner 1pm-3pm: $30 District/$40 Out- of-District Registration opens 12/6 - 1/23. - Brown Gym reserved as back-up Saturday, January 31st- Pickleball Strategy for Juniors, ages 10-16, 1pm- 3pm: $30 District/$40 Out-of-District Registration opens 12/6 - 1/30. Feb. 2026: Monday, February 2nd & Wednesday, February 4th - Adult Beyond the Basics 8:30am-10am: $45 District/$55 Out-of-District Registration opens 12/6 - 1/30. March 2026: March 1st-28th St. Patty's Day tournament (Info included on Special Events/Tournaments) Saturday, March 7th- Adult Beyond the Basics 1pm-3pm: $30 District/$40 Out-of-District Registration opens 2/1 - 3/6. Friday, March 27th- Pickleball Social 6pm-8pm: Free (On RecDesk Calendar) Saturday, March 28th- Adult Intermediate/Strategy 1pm-3pm: $30 District/$40 Out-of-District Registration opens 2/1 - 3/27. April 2026: Saturday, April 11th- Junior Basics+ 1pm-3pm: $30 District/$40 Out-of- District Registration opens 3/1 - 4/10. Monday, April13th & Wednesday, April 15th- Adult Beginner 8:30am- 10am: $45 District/$55 Out-of-District Registration opens 3/1 - 4/10. April 18th &19th- Spring Classic Tournament (Info included on Special Events/Tournament) Reserved & registrations built for all division - active on RecDesk Friday, April 24th- Pickleball Social 6pm-8pm: FREE On RecDesk Calendar May 2026: Monday, May 4th & Wednesday, May 6th- Adult Intermediate/Strategy, 8:30AM - 10:00 AM: $45 District/$55 Out-of-District Registration opens 4/1 - 5/1. Saturday, May 9th- Pickleball Strategy for Juniors, ages 10-16, 1pm-3pm: $30 District/$40 Out-of-District Registration opens 4/1 - 5/8. June 2026: Monday, June 8th & Wednesday, June10th- Adult Beginner 8:30am-10am Registration May 1 - June 5. . Indoor courts may not be available due to summer camp in Brown Gym. Friday, June12th- Pickleball Social 6pm-8pm: FREE On RecDesk Calendar Saturday, June 13th- Junior Basics+ 1pm-3pm Registration May 1 - June 12. .
Pickleball Highlight Pelican Park is so fortunate to have two passionate leaders in our pickleball community, Ken and Vicki Winn. Their dedication to growing the love of pickleball has made a lasting impact right here at our Park. They host several successful tournaments, socials and events each year at Pelican Park and offer clinics for all ages and skill levels, making it easy for anyone to jump in and be part of our Pelican Park Pickleball Community. We are incredibly grateful for all they do for our park and our community...thank you both for being such an important part of the Pelican Park team!
2026 Pickleball Tournaments Pelican Park Juniors Shamrock Pickleball Scramble • Friday, February 27, 2026 • 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM • Early Registration: December 6 – January 30: $10 per player • Regular Registration: February 1 – February 22: $15 per player Pelican Park Pickleball Shamrock Showdown • Adults: Saturday, February 28 – Sunday, March 1, 2026 • 4 Match Minimum • Divisions: Doubles Only – Men’s, Women’s, Mixed (2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0+) • Early Registration: December 6 – January 31: $35 per player • Regular Registration: February 1 – February 22: $40 per player • Ages: 13+ • Not a DUPR tournament • Official Ball: Franklin X40 – Outdoor Pelican Park Spring Pickleball Classic Adults
Turkey Tourney Junior Scramble Recap Ken and Vicki Winn hosted our very first Turkey Tourney Junior Scramble in November, and it was a huge success! Our youth players had an awesome time rotating partners, racking up points each game, and learning that teamwork and encouragement are just as important as winning. The format kept things fun, fair, and engaging while building sportsmanship on and off the court. We loved seeing the energy, smiles, and positive teamwork throughout the event, and we can’t wait to do it again! We hope your child will join us for the next Junior Scramble during the Shamrock Showdown on Friday, February 27th. Ages: 10–15 Early Bird Registration: December 6, 2025 ... January 30, 2026 ... $10 Regular Registration: February 1 ... February 22, 2026 ... $15 Stay tuned for more junior pickleball fun at Pelican Park! JUNIOR SCRAMBLE 2025
• Saturday April 18 & Sunday April 19 • Divisions: Doubles Only - Men’s, Women’s, Mixed (2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0+) • Early Registration: December 6 – February 28: $35 per player • Regular Registration: March 1 – April 13: $40 per player • Ages: 13+ • Not a DUPR tournament • Official Ball: Selkirk
16 | Recreation District #1 of St. Tammany Parish
Pelican Watch Vol. 26 Issue 1 | 17
Upcoming Events Disclaimer: All event dates, times, and locations are subject to change due to availability, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances. Please be sure to monitor the events at www.pelicanpark.com or stay updated by following us on social media. We’re thrilled to welcome you to another exciting season at Pelican Park! Our team has been working hard to bring you a lineup of activities, programs, and events that offer something for everyone—whether you're competing, exploring, or just soaking in the fun. FEBRUARY - SEPTEMBER Pelican Park Juniors Shamrock Pickleball Scramble
What a Way to End 2025! The end of 2025 was an absolute blast, marked by an unforgettable lineup of events at Pelican Park. The first-ever Turkey Tourney Pickleball Tournament was a major success, with more than 200 registered players bringing both competition and fun. The Four Unplugged Concert welcomed over 300 music lovers for an incredible night of live music under beautiful skies. The Jingle Jam Holiday Party was the largest yet, with nearly 400 guests celebrating the season together. What a great way to close out the year, and appreciation is extended to everyone who helped make these events a success. Thank you for being part of the Pelican Park community, and best wishes for a great 2026.
Pelican Park Spring Pickleball Classic Adults REGISTRATION NOW OPEN • Saturday April 18 & Sunday April 19 • Divisions: Doubles Only - Men’s, Women’s, Mixed (2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0+) • Early Registration: December 6 – February 28: $35 per player • Regular Registration: March 1 – April 13: $40 per player • Ages: 13+ • Not a DUPR tournament • Official Ball: Selkirk Alt’R Ego Concert • Saturday, April 18, 2026 • Free Family Friendly Community Concert at the Groves Stage • 5 PM – 8 PM • Live Music, Food & Craft Vendors 6th Annual Pelican Park Disc Golf Classic • May 2, 2026 • Registration Information at: https://www.discgolfscene.com/ tournaments Soul of the South: John Boutte & Friends in Concert • May 16, 2026 • Free Family Friendly Community Concert at the Groves Stage • 6 PM – 8 PM • Information about John can be found here: https://www.johnboutte. com/ The Glow Show Concert with Performance by Category 6 Band • June 6, 2026 • 7:30pm – 9:30pm • The Groves Stage at Pelican Park • Category 6 Band – The Glow Show https://category6band.net/ 6th Annual Pelican Park Disc Golf Doubles Championships • September 26, 2026 • Registration Information at: https://www.discgolfscene.com/ tournaments COLLABORATIVE EVENTS Kids Krewe Parade with the Children’s Museum of St. Tammany Parish • February 16, 2026 • 11:00 AM CMST & Pelican Park Back to School Bash • July 25, 2026 • 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN • Friday, February 27, 2026 • 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Early Registration: December 6 – January 30: $10 per player • Regular Registration: February 1 – February 22: $15 per player Pelican Park Pickleball Shamrock Showdown REGISTRATION NOW OPEN • Adults: Saturday, February 28 – Sunday, March 1, 2026 • 4 Match Minimum • Divisions: Doubles Only – Men’s, Women’s, Mixed (2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0+) • Early Registration: December 6 – January 31: $35 per player • Regular Registration: February 1 – February 22: $40 per player • Ages: 13+ • Not a DUPR tournament
• Official Ball: Franklin X40 – Outdoor Picnic in the Park & Spring Egg Hunt • March 21, 2026 • 1 PM – 4 PM • 3 age-specific egg hunts food trucks and vendors
• Live music at the Groves Stage • Free – No Registration Needed
Battle of the Bands • March 21, 2026 • The Groves Event Stage • 5 PM – 8 PM
• Open to all genres. To be considered, bands need to submit a video link not exceeding 3 minutes to: agreement@pelicanpark.com. Bands will be selected to participate following a juried review of all audition submissions. The deadline to submit an audition video link is March 2, 2026. **Note that those chosen bands must submit a set list for approval before the concert date. Covington Concert Band – Spring Concert • Thursday, April 16 • Free Family Friendly Community Concert at the Groves Stage • 7:30 PM – 9 PM
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Pelican Watch Vol. 26 Issue 1 | 19
Coaches Thank You A heartfelt thank you to all dedicated coaches who generously give time, energy, and patience to help shape a positive and supportive environment for youth. This commitment does not go unnoticed, the impact is felt in every practice, every game, and every encouraging word. The role played in the success of the leagues is truly valued and appreciated.
Environmental Education
Pelican Park Environmental Education: Explore, Learn, & Connect The Pelican Park Environmental Education Program continues to thrive, offering activities that encourage outdoor exploration and environmental stewardship. Highlights include the Pelican Park Nature Club and an Astronomy Program featuring powerful telescopes and a portable planetarium. These initiatives provide the community with hands-on ways to connect with nature and the night sky. For the latest event schedules and registration Pelican Park Nature Club: Adventures in Nature-Based Programs Pelican Park Nature Club programs, spearheaded by Alex Landry, Naturalist and Environmental Education Coordinator, have kept participants busy all year long. Program Highlights: Fontainebleau Early Birds: This bird walk occurs on the second Saturday of every month at Fontainebleau State Park. The group meets at the splash pad from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. to observe local bird species. To date, 76 unique species have been recorded during these outings. Beginners are welcome, and loaner binoculars are available through a generous donation from Sport Optics. Sightings can be viewed via the eBird profile. Sunrise Birding on Bayou Castine: Starting the new year with a fresh hobby, this program meets every Monday in January at 6:30 a.m. at the Mandeville Harbor Pavilion (Lakeshore Drive and Jackson Avenue). Participants can watch the sunrise and observe local birds while making new friends. Binoculars and handwarmers are provided. Night Programs: The outdoors offers a vibrant world to explore after sunset. The Pelican Park Nature Club provides numerous opportunities to engage with nature after dark, including regular moth sheeting, guided night hikes, and sunset paddles down Cane Bayou in partnership with Canoe and Trail Adventures. Monthly Meet and Mingle: This program fosters community connection and environmental education on the third Wednesday of every month at Pat’s Rest Awhile. The upcoming presentation, “Purple Martins: The Great Seasonal Homecoming at Pelican Park,” is scheduled for January 29th. Summer Presenter Recognition : The Pelican Park Nature Club extends a warm thank you to the following guest speakers for their contributions to the summer series: ● Louisiana’s Medicinal Flora – Sophia Forstall ● Creatures of the Night – Dr. Bill Wimley ● Basic Outdoor Knots – Matt May ● Beekeeping and Native Plants – Greg Capranica ● Luminescence and Fluorescence in Nature – Leon Zebrick Introduction to Nature Journaling: Presented by Certified Louisiana Master Naturalist Alicia Barnes, this workshop teaches participants the basics of nature journaling and provides guided practice in observation techniques. As nature journaling is simply a method of recording the natural world, artistic skill is not a requirement for attendance. (Next session: January 12th)
Congratulations to the Pelican Park League Champions and Interleague All-Stars! Congratulations to the Summer, Fall, and Winter 2025 league champions. Dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to teams have truly paid off, resulting in outstanding accomplishments. Efforts on and off the field have not gone unnoticed. Continued excellence, leadership by example, and a commitment to greatness are encouraged. Pelican Park hosted its first-ever All-Star Tournament, creating an exciting and memorable event. Appreciation is extended to Coquille Parks & Recreation / Recreation District 14 and Lee Road Recreation for participating and contributing strong competition, energy, and grit. Pelican Park All-Stars advanced to championship games in every age group, with several teams earning tournament victories. Players and coaches demonstrated focus, determination, and true sportsmanship throughout the weekend. Congratulations to all teams for the hard work and heart you put into this tournament!
photo by: Bill Wimley
20 | Recreation District #1 of St. Tammany Parish
Pelican Watch Vol. 26 Issue 1 | 21
Environmental Education
Follow Pelican Park Nature Club for exciting new adventures in 2026!
2026 Astronomy Events:
The Pelican Park Nature Book Club: This club meets monthly to discuss literature focused on the natural world. The inaugural meeting takes place at the Northlake Nature Center on January 15th at 6:00 p.m. , gathered around a campfire at the outdoor amphitheater, to discuss The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben. Multiple copies and eBooks are available through the St. Tammany Parish Library. Northshore Naturalist: Following its success last fall, this popular overnight program returns from April 24–26 with a similar itinerary of immersive outdoor activities. Participants can look forward to night hikes, expert-led field excursions, a canoe paddle, stargazing, and educational presentations. Special appreciation is extended to Fontainebleau State Park’s Interpretive Ranger Garrett Shelton for helping facilitate the program. Sunset Yoga: This program will continue this year, featuring instructor Megan Gabriell guiding participants through relaxing flows on the beach at Fontainebleau State Park. Dates will be provided as they become available. Volunteer Opportunities: Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities to support the Pelican Park Nature Club through volunteer service. Details on how to get involved with future projects and events will be announced soon. Private Groups: Programs are available for homeschool groups, scout troops, and other small organizations interested in private guided hikes at the Northlake Nature Center or other local natural areas. Inquiries should be emailed to Alex Landry at Alexlandry@pelicanpark.com . Exploring the Stars: An Interactive Astronomy Program Beyond our nature-based programming, the Park offers an interactive astronomy program featuring powerful telescopes and immersive planetarium shows that bring the wonders of the night sky into focus. Astronomy in the Park: This monthly program offers a complete celestial experience, combining indoor planetarium shows with outdoor stargazing exploration. Attendees are welcome to participate in the full evening or choose to attend only the portion that interests them most. ● Planetarium Shows: Led by Planetarium Coordinator Stephanie Welch, these sessions are held in the White Gym (Court 3). These captivating presentations bring the wonders of the cosmos to life as a prelude to the night sky viewing. ● Stargazing & Telescopes: Led by Leon Zebrick, this portion takes place at the Yellow Complex. Leon guides participants through the night sky using the Park’s two high-caliber instruments: ○ The Origin (Astrograph ): Specialized for deep-space observation, capturing distant celestial phenomena. ○ Celestron GPS XLT Telescope : Dedicated to solar system viewing—ideal for observing Saturn’s rings, Jupiter, and other planets depending on seasonal visibility.
● February 25 | March 18 | April 22 ● May 13 | June 24 | July 14 ● September 17 | October 14 | November 18
Note: Specific start times for each event fluctuate monthly based on the time of sunset. For the most up- to-date schedules and weather-related updates, please check social media or visit RecDesk. All outdoor viewing is weather permitting. Backyard Astronomy Class: Stargaze Like a Pro Have you always wanted to explore the night sky but didn’t know where to start? Register for the Backyard Astronomy Class! Perfect for beginners (high school age and up), this course covers everything you need to become a confident amateur astronomer—no prior knowledge required. Course Schedule: ● Classroom Sessions: March 3, 10, and 17 ● Field Night: March 18 Participants will learn to: ● Navigate the Universe : Identify galaxies, nebulae, and other celestial wonders. ● Master Equipment: Learn to choose and use binoculars, telescopes, and accessories while avoiding common beginner mistakes. ● Observation Techniques: Develop skills for locating and viewing planets, stars, and deep-sky objects. Registration and Scheduling: Detailed class times and registration are available on RecDesk.
Species Spotlight: Loggerhead Shrike: Loggerhead Shrike Loggerhead Shrikes are year-round residents of Pelican Park’s sports fields. Look for them perched on fences, goalposts, or anywhere that offers them a good vantage point. These little birds have a notorious reputation in the bird world, and for good reason: they are predatory songbirds! Despite being smaller than a Dove, and lacking the talons of much-larger raptors, Loggerhead Shrikes will eat anything from small insects, to frogs, up to other songbirds! If they’re unable to eat their prey in one sitting, they’re known to impale it on barbed wire or thorns to save it for later. Look for the distinctive black mask and sharply pointed bill next time you’re in the park.
photo by: Kristyn Whatley
22 | Recreation District #1 of St. Tammany Parish
Pelican Watch Vol. 26 Issue 1 | 23
63350 Pelican Drive Mandeville, LA 70448
Pelican Park Sponsorships Would you like to become a sponsor of one of Pelican Park’s complexes or one of its numerous special events? Learn more by visiting the website at:
Coca-Cola is the official drink of Pelican Park
Gulf Coast Bank is the official bank of Pelican Park.
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