February 10, 2024

Quote of the week

"I believe that each of us carries a bit of inner brightness, something entirely unique and individual, a flame that's worth protecting. When we are able to recognize our own light, we become empowered to use it. When we learn to foster what's unique in the people around us, we become better able to build compassionate communities and make meaningful change." 
— Michelle Obama, The Light We Carry

Join our team! Now hiring full-time senior program assistants

The City of Menlo Park is currently seeking qualified candidates for two (2) full-time senior program assistants in the Library and Community Services department. This is an unparalleled opportunity to join our energetic and creative team. Senior program assistants are hands-on professionals who provide essential support for a wide range of community programs, operational and administrative duties. Assigned areas of program responsibility may include recreation center programs, senior center programs, children and youth programs and related areas. The deadline for applications is March 10. Learn more and apply online at menlopark.gov/jobs.

Attend the Black Liberation Month Celebration on Feb. 10

The City of Menlo Park celebrates the past, present and future of Black Americans on this day of education, cultural remembrance and youth expression. Join us as we pay respect to local heroes of the Belle Haven and nearby communities. Hear inspiring words of strength, triumph and resilience. See powerful and inspiring youth artwork in the Menlo Park Youth Poster Exhibition. All are welcome Saturday, Feb. 10 at Belle Haven Library, 413 Ivy Dr. from noon–2:30 p.m.

Celebrate Lunar New Year in Menlo Park with Red Panda Acrobats

Celebrate the Year of the Dragon with a stunning performance of Chinese acrobatics! Wayne Huey of Red Panda Acrobats will share amazing feats of balancing, contortion, juggling and more. Enjoy these amazing feats at 11 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 11 at Belle Haven Library, 413 Ivy Dr.

Suggestion box – How are we doing?

We strive to deliver excellent service to the Menlo Park community. Your feedback helps us learn and improve. Do you have a question, complaint or suggestion? We want to hear from you! Please share your thoughts in our online suggestion box, or write your comments on paper and drop them in the suggestion boxes at City libraries and recreation centers.

Menlo Park summer camp enrollment opens Feb. 12

Keep your child active and engaged in a fun and enriching setting at City of Menlo Park summer camps. Camps have activities to promote literacy, social and physical development. In addition to City-run summer camps, the City hosts specialty summer camps for sports, dance and more. Sign up during early registration, Feb. 12-14 and receive 10% off City-run camp programs, which include: Camp Menlo and Menlo Mania. Check out our online activity guide to find and enroll in classes. 

Registration is open for summer swim camps

Swim camps are a great way for children and youth to strengthen their swimming and water safety skills during the summer months. The City of Menlo Park, in partnership with Menlo Swim and Sport, will host swim camps at Burgess Pool and at the new Belle Haven Pool opening this summer! Camps are available for ages ranging from five to 14, and skill levels from beginner to junior lifeguard. Registration is now open as of Feb. 1. For more information and to register, visit the City’s swim camp webpage.

Take a short survey to share your feedback on aquatics program!

The City of Menlo Park wants your input! Our goal is to provide aquatics programs that meet the community’s needs. Your response to our aquatics survey will help to inform the services and programs at City-owned swimming pools. Thank you for your help! Take the survey at menlopark.gov/swim. 

Sports update: Tennis and pickleball courts are now open for free drop-in play

City of Menlo Park tennis and pickleball courts are now open to the community for free drop-in play –– no tennis key required! Reservations are still accepted at select tennis courts for players who would like to confirm space ahead of time; reservation fees apply. Keep a look out for new signage at the courts indicating which courts can be reserved and which courts are drop-in only. Visit our website to find the locations of tennis and pickleball courts and view the court reservation schedule.

English Language Conversation Club 

Did you know that we offer a weekly conversation group for English language learners? Here’s your chance to practice with people from all over the world! Meet other English language learners and work with our literacy staff and volunteer tutors. Drop in and join us Tuesdays at noon at Menlo Park Library, 800 Alma St.

Steel Pan Music with the SpiceIslander

It’s time for more live music at the library! Paul Snagg, The SpiceIslander, plays fresh and inclusive Steel Drum music in the styles of Soca, Reggae, Calypso and Jazz. Enjoy the tunes with us Saturday, Feb. 17 at 1 p.m. at Belle Haven Library, 413 Ivy Dr.

Love reading? Join a book group

Join us virtually to talk about some great reads. The City of Menlo Park hosts four book discussion groups.

• First Monday of the month: Melanated Reads
• Second Tuesday of the month: Fiction Book Group (formerly the "Literature Book Group")
• Third Wednesday of the month: Mystery Readers Group
• Fourth Monday of the month: Sci-Fi/Fantasy group

Community events for all – calendar listings

The City of Menlo Park hosts cultural, literary and educational events that reflect our diverse community and are accessible to all. This newsletter is just a sampling of upcoming events and programs hosted by the city. View a complete calendar of upcoming city events.