Despite suffering from recent budget cuts and increased fees, the Newton County Recreation Department will be moving forward with the new season of sports programs. Children who have not signed up are encouraged to do so, as time is running out to register for football and cheerleading. The deadline is July 16 with practice beginning in August.

The programs are offered to children ages 5 to 12. Costs to register for the football program is $125 per child seven and up — $115 for the second child. Children between five and six years-old pay $115 per player and $105 for the second. The cheerleading program will cost $65 per child and $55 for the second. For those who do not have their own equipment, the recreation department freely issues helmets and shoulder pads, which must be returned at the end of the season.

Registration for fall baseball and softball also has just begun, with the deadline marked for August 6. Cost to register will be $85 per child, up $10 from last year.

"With the budgets cuts and the state of the economy, we just want to make sure we keep the same number of people we had for last year, and that won’t be a problem," said Tommy Hailey, director of the Newton County Recreation Department. "We’re looking forward to seeing more players this season."

Those who live outside Newton County will be charged a $50 county fee. All participants must provide a proof of residency and a birth certificate.

The Newton County Recreation Center, located on the Turner Lake Complex, enjoys a spread of 158 acres that boasts four lighted softball fields and a youth football and cheerleading field, batting cages, playground and a three-mile walking trail by a 26 acre lake. A 34,000 square foot building houses the recreation commission offices, gymnasium and a full service senior center.

Along with the sports programs, fees have also increased by a dollar to walk in the indoor track in the recreation center’s gymnasium which is open to the public. The center will also be hosting the 2010 Dixie Boys Georgia State Tournament from July 10 – 15.