CPRS Award Winners

The California Park & Recreation Society’s annual awards program recognizes the outstanding achievements by agencies in the areas of creating community through programming, park planning, facility design, and marketing and communications. This year’s award winners were selected as having best exemplified the CREAM principles of Challenge, Resourcefulness, Execution, Accomplishments and Mission representing our finest professional achievements from this past year.

Creating Community Award of Excellence

Aging Well Triple-R Adult Day Program City of Sacramento

Recognizing that some residents are unable to participate in standard recreational offerings due to age-related dementia, the City of Sacramento’s Department of Youth, Parks and Community Enrichment developed Triple-R Adult Day Program. Triple-R, which stands for Recreation, Respite and Resources, is an upbeat program that enriches the lives of seniors who attend, while also benefitting their family caregivers who get a break from their round-the-clock duties, allowing them to engage in their own recreational activities, or go to work, knowing that their loved one is safe. Our motto: Fun - no matter where we are in life, we need it!

Community Health & Wellness Healthy Kids Extravaganza Cosumnes CSD

Every year, Elk Grove’s community enjoys attending the Healthy Kids Extravaganza, a one-day event that educates community member on healthy lifestyle habits. The Childhood Obesity Awareness videos series aims to bring awareness to childhood obesity and contribute to a healthier future for our community. In recognition of Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, we created a weekly video series that highlighted fun ways to live a healthy lifestyle.

Arts & Cultural Services Danville at the Heart of (Public) Art Town of Danville

The Town of Danville has seen increasing success with public art since 2018, from painted pianos on the Downtown corners to fiberglass dogs, the peak of public art displays came in 2020 with the introduction of Hearts Around Hartz.

ENHANCING COMMUNITIES, ONE PARK AT A TIME.

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This display included 17 fiberglass hearts decorated by local artists. Despite the challenges of COVID-19, community members were able to enjoy the Hearts on a leisurely stroll through Downtown Danville. Through creative funding, a broad call for artists and careful selection, Danville has established public art as an integral part of the fabric of the community that generates economic vitality.

Social Equity Revitalization of Los Angeles’ Skid Row Parks EXPO Center

The City of Los Angeles is proud of the revitalization of the two Skid Row homeless parks located in Downtown Los Angeles. A project that would not have been possible without the assistance of our extraordinary partners, vision from our General Manager and community input. Members of the Skid Row community were hired to maintain the parks and through our partners over 70 annual free events occur in the parks. A Park Advisory Board was formed at the request of the community, which brought together an abundance of resources that work to progressively improve the Skid Row parks.

Neighborhood / Community Building Serve Los Al Los Alamitos Recreation and Community Services

Department

The City of Los Alamitos has over 11,500 residents, four schools, 200 non-profit organizations, and nearly 2,000 businesses within four miles. With the highest number of non-profits per capita in Orange County, the Los Alamitos Recreation & Community Services Department had a strong desire to unite the organizations to collaborate and work together to benefit the entire community. As a result, an informal monthly committee meeting and volunteer service event titled “Serve Los Al” was created. Over the years, the committee meeting and Serve Los Al event has expanded and created a significant impact on the Los Alamitos Community.

Youth Development Leadership, Experience & Development (L.E.A.D.) Program City of Bellflower Parks & Recreation Department

The City of Bellflower created an exciting volunteer job training program that provides resources for young teens in the community that will not only equip them for life after graduation, but also give them exposure to different positions within the Parks and Recreation Department. The LEAD Program provides young teens with the proper guidance, level of expectation and tools to learn life skills that are crucial for leadership development. The program benefits them both in their professional and personal developments, while teaching them basic job skills and the importance of community involvement.

Excellence in Design - Facility Design

Aquatic Facility, Class 1 Courson Park Pool Facility City of Palmdale

The new state of the art Courson Pool facility featured its grand opening in summer of 2020 and opened its doors to a new way of executing recreation within the community. The facility boosts a 25-yard pool that offers eight lanes, and offers a variety of aquatics programming for swimmers of all ages and abilities. The new pool deck features Palmdale’s first splash pad that includes multiple automatic water features, a beautiful public art mural, and unique artistic elements. The Courson Pool Facility provides residents of Palmdale a unique place to come play, learn, and swim.

Aquatic Facility, Class 3 El Centro Aquatic Center City of El Centro

Since 2004, the City of El Centro was in need of a new aquatic center. After 15 years of planning and fundraising, the 3.5 acre El Centro Aquatic Center opened in the Fall of 2019 with a 25-yard competition pool, an interactive children’s / recreational pool, an instructional / fitness pool, a lazy river, beautiful support buildings and space for a future waterslide. With over 8,000 square feet of water of various depths and temperatures a wide array of aquatic programming is offered to meet the present and future needs of any El Centro and Imperial County regional resident.

Community Center / Mixed Use Facility, Class 1 City of Perris Senior Center Expansion/Renovation City of Perris

The City of Perris Senior Center Renovation and Expansion was a crucial need to continue the development of Senior related programming for a vulnerable population. Through safety and public health challenges, the City ensured that this project was a success. City of Perris Seniors

are of importance to the goal of the city, and to continue with the mission of the Community Services Department, “ Providing superior public services that enhance the quality of life for our community”.

Community Center / Mixed Use Facility, Class 3 Crown Valley Community Center City of Laguna Niguel

The Crown Valley Community Center project was a significant undertaking by the City of Laguna Niguel Parks and Recreation Department. The original center was outdated and lacked available space and amenities. Throughout the project community input on facility design and amenities, as well as on classes and programs, was instrumental. February 2020 the Crown Valley Community Center was finished on time and under budget. This beautiful new trilevel, multi-use facility is the crown jewel of Laguna Niguel and centerpiece at Crown Valley Park. As an essential part of the community, the center lives the “Parks Make Life Better!” mission.

Excellence in Design - Park Planning

Neighborhood, Class 1 Broder Family Homestead Park City of Folsom

Broder Family Homestead Park opened to the public in July 2020. The park is located on property that was once part of the expansive Broder Family Ranch, which was established in the mid-1800s. The five-acre property for the park was generously gifted to the City by Vera Broder-Silberstein, who spent part of her childhood on the ranch in the 1930s and ‘40s. Broder Family Homestead Park preserves the historic and cultural resources of the Broder Ranch Complex. This uniquely passive park is an integral and inspirational part of the City of Folsom’s truly distinctive parks, recreation and open space system.

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Neighborhood, Class 2 Civita Park Phase II Schmidt Design Group

Phase II completes an ambitious vision established years ago with the community to bring a world-class park to the community of Mission Valley. The park cascades down the former rock and sand mining site, creating a series of level passive and active recreation activity areas. The park, inspired by the natural and cultural history of the site and community creates a focal point for the Civita development as well as a strong greenbelt spine connecting local neighborhoods. What was once a dusty scar on the land is now a vibrant place for connection to nature, recreation, social interaction, and play.

Community, Class 1 Dolphin Park All Abilities Playground City of Carson

The City of Carson was given the opportunity to build its first All Abilities Playground at Dolphin Park for its residents and all to enjoy. Thanks to the generous donation from Marathon Petroleum, the partnerships of the local community, local elementary school, therapeutic program, and early childcare program, the City was able to create a fun environment that provides opportunities for cognitive, communicative, physical, social and sensory development.

Community, Class 2 Imagine All-Abilities Playground at Dublin Sports Grounds Gates + Associates

The project is an “all-abilities” playground offering state of the art play equipment for ages 2-12, fitness equipment for ages 13+, adult fitness equipment, outdoor music for all ages, and beautiful site furnishings throughout designed in partnership with the community.

Community, Class 3 Mast Park City of Santee

Santee’s Mast Park has been the City’s principal park asset since its original construction 35 years ago. Over time, the utility of the park had been diminished by erosion, the growth of invasive vegetation, and security concerns. What should have been the City’s premier park had become an environmental and security liability.

In collaboration with state, county and regional partners, a complete reconstruction of Mast Park was undertaken with the goal of delivering multiple benefits for water quality, wildlife and public access. Mast Park is now alive with activity and a destination for all ages and levels of mobility.

Specialty, Class 1 Manzanita Skatepark City of Anaheim

Manzanita skatepark has added value and a sense of pride to the surrounding community. Since its installation, the skatepark has helped to eliminate several of the conditions that had previously kept residents away from the park, and has quickly confirmed the need and great community desire for the project. Catering to all levels of ability, the design was a true collaboration between local skaters, youth, and the design team at Spohn Ranch. The skatepark has transformed an underutilized park into an exciting after-school haven for youth, as well as a destination sought out by skaters from all over the region.

Specialty, Class 2 Milpitas Skate Park Verde Design

Milpitas Skatepark is an “All Wheels” facility specifically designed to allow for skateboarding, biking, scooters, inline skates, and roller skates. The layout maximizes the available park space and includes a 20,000 square foot skate park

Regional, Class 3 Three Shoreline Projects in Bay Point, Albany, and Oakland East Bay Regional Park District

The East Bay Regional Park District completed three projects in 2020 that provide important public access to the East Bay community, while also integrating other benefits

including habitat restoration and sea level rise mitigation. In addition, these projects/parks provide critical access to open space and recreation for the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Marketing & Communications Award of Excellence

Digital Media - Video, Class 1 Cordova Community Pool Outreach Cordova Recreation & Park District

For decades, the jewel of the Cordova Recreation & Park District was the aquatic center at Hagan Community Park. The aquatic center was built in the 1960s and was desperately in need of restoration. The District created a renovation plan to restore the aquatic center’s legacy. Highlights of the renovation project include two new pools: a recreation pool and competitive pool, and a new locker room mechanical building, and multiple water play features. In conjunction with the project, the District developed a virtual outreach campaign that included a virtual groundbreaking and regular drone video updates provided to the public.

Digital Media - Video, Class 2 Daly City Recreation – SLICED City of Daly City - Department of Library and Recreation Services

Daly City Recreation in partnership with the Second Harvest of Silicon Valley have and continues to provide food to those struggling families during the pandemic. The online episode of SLICED was to demonstrate to those at home the many possibilities of delicious meals that can be made with at home ingredients and ingredients being distributed. The SLICED showcases Recreation Staff racing to complete delicious meals against one another and local figures to taste and judge the food. Due to the large amount of views, likes and engagements, Daly City Recreation continues to bring more smiles at home through SLICED.

Park Planning Design Build Plan Checking Budget Analysis Consensus Building Inclusive Playgrounds Demonstration Gardens

Skateparks Splash Pads Feasibility Studies Historical Site Design Athletic Field Planning Park & Recreation Master Plans

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Digital Media - Web / Social Media, Class 1 Los Alamitos Recreation Social Media Los Alamitos Recreation and Community Services Department

When the California Stay at Home Order was issued on March 19, 2020, it posed a new challenge to the Los Alamitos Recreation and Community Services Department: how to support their community during an unprecedented time period. In response, staff increased their social media presence by transforming traditional recreational activities into ones community members could participate from the safety of their home. Staff have received positive feedback from the community and an increase in followers on social media, highlighting the impact social media has on the local community.

Digital Media - Web / Social Media, Class 2 Halloween Horrors Film Competition City of Santa Cruz

I’m nominating the Louden Nelson Community Center for this award as I was blown away by what they created and the marketing strategies executed. I put together a group of people and we created a submission for the contest. At the time we filmed the video, we were 7 months into the pandemic. Creating our film got us out of the house and into the community with people I had not been able to see in a while. During this process I realized how much I needed a creative outlet, interaction with friends and a distraction from world events.

Digital Media - Web / Social Media, Class 4 #LoveEBRPD Social Media Campaign East Bay Regional Park District

It is often said that the best form of marketing is word-ofmouth from happy customers. The #LoveEBRPD campaign was designed to take word-of-mouth marketing to social media by using photos and statements from park visitors, collected through social media, to demonstrate the value of parks to the community. With #LoveEBRPD, park visitors are the campaign messengers and content creators.

Marketing Campaign, Class 1 Healthy at Home City of Manhattan Beach

The Manhattan Beach Parks & Recreation Department developed new marketing strategies as a result of the Healthy at HOME initiative. Through a creative and innovate marketing approach leveraging digital media, the Department enhanced its brand awareness within the community; and worked closely with employees, local businesses, and instructors to enhance the lives of the community through virtual programs.

Marketing Campaign, Class 2 JCSD’s Friday Flicks & Food Trucks Jurupa Community Services District

Providing the essential recreation services during the COVID-19 pandemic, which required the cancellation of JCSD’s most popular special events, was the goal in the development of the Friday Flicks & Food Trucks movie series. The success of the marketing campaign can be measured by community engagement (in terms of view/likes), by overall participation (all 7 screenings were sold out), and by the positive impact it had on attending guests (reflected in surveys). The need to further develop innovative and safe recreational opportunities is made evident by the overwhelming success and implementation of the Friday Flicks & Food Truck movie series.

Marketing Campaign, Class 3 Hands on the Arts at Home City of Sunnyvale Dept. of Library and Recreation Services

The 35th annual Hands on the Arts (HOTA) festival typically held in May, celebrated multicultural arts in a day of hands-on crafts, dance workshops and music. The outdoor, fun, festive arts festival quickly had to be re-marketed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With just six weeks until the event, and budget slashed, the Sunnyvale Recreation team quickly pivoted to executing a no-budget Hands at the Arts at Home virtual event. By engaging a multi-platform marketing campaign, Sunnyvale Recreation paved the way to launch one of the first virtual community events in the South Bay Area.

Marketing Campaign, Class 4 COVID-19 Communications Campaign East Bay Regional Park District

From the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was clear that a special communications campaign was needed to inform the public about how to visit East Bay Regional Parks safely. The Park District’s COVID-19 communication campaign included the overarching message “We Need Your Help to Keep Parks Open and Safe” to emphasize the Park District’s desire to keep parks as open but that the public’s help and participation was needed. The campaign also focused on providing accurate information about the status and activities allowed during COVID-19 at its 75 regional parks.

Print Publication or Materials, Class 2 Summer Eastvale Edition – “Rising Together, A New Dawn of Recreation” Jurupa Community Services District

The summer Eastvale Edition is a part of the healing process for the Eastvale community. This community guide is more than just a marketing tool for JCSD programs, it’s also a measuring tool displaying the dedication of recreation professionals seeking to provide hope and comfort to local Eastvale families. The summer Eastvale Edition is also a vital source of information regarding JCSD’s efforts to keep the community safe. Recreational opportunities, in the midst of state-wide public-school closures, have never been so important to maintaining proper physical and mental health. JCSD’s summer Eastvale Edition is a testament to that fact. WE DESIGN WATER YOU CAN USE S • Renovation Analysis C E • Needs Analysis V I • Master Planning E R • Programming S • Architecture • Engineering • Aquatic Design • Construction Administration

Since 1990, Jones & Madhavan has worked with public agencies throughout California to develop hundreds of successful aquatic facilities. If you are planning a new aquatic facility or are considering modernization of an existing facility, Jones & Madhavan can provide the professionalism you will appreciate from beginning to end.

Dominguez Aquatic Center Van Nuys / Sherman Oaks Recreation Center

Print Publication or Materials, Class 3 City of Escondido Recreation Guide City of Escondido

The City of Escondido Recreation Guide was redesigned to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse and thriving community. Through the innovative use of internal staff resources, a digital publication platform, as well as community connections and valuable partnerships, the City was able to develop a modern, forward-thinking activities guide that reflects the true essence of Parks Makes Life Better, thereby making it a complete community resource guide for recreation programming, life-long learning classes, community events, and important City news.

Terra Linda Aquatic Center Granite Hills High School

100 East Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Suite 211 Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 T 805.777.8449 F 805.777.8489 E info@jmae.com W jmae.com

Editor’s Note: The awards presented to winners of the 2020 CPRS Awards Program were created by the Piece by Piece organization. Their story is included here. Thank You Piece by Piece for creating our one-of-kind awards this year!

By Robert Jones Founder CauseConsumer.org

Reprinted with permission. Originally appeared on the Cause Consumer.org Website. Photos courtesy of CauseConsumer.org.

Making Beauty from Broken Things

About a dozen years ago, Sophie Alpert found herself going through Dumpsters in Los Angeles.

In a county where nearly 53,000 people are homeless, that’s an act of desperation that happens far too often. But Sophie wasn’t desperate. In fact, for this daughter of a Holocaust survivor who calls her life “incredibly blessed,” the Dumpster episode wasn’t a low point – it was the start of a calling.

Just the year before, Sophie had had her first close encounter with social enterprise during a visit to South Africa, where HIV-positive women were taught to create and sell hand-beaded dolls as a way of asserting their financial independence.

It was an “aha!” moment for the former Skid Row daycare worker who had left the workforce to raise her own four children. She wanted to bring this idea back home, to find an artistic medium that could offer hope and beauty and security in a neighborhood where thousands of people every night sleep in tents, bags, or cardboard boxes.

Beaded dolls didn’t seem very promising in L.A., but Sophie quickly settled on mosaic art because it was a quick and accessible way to introduce art to newcomers. She also liked the fact that the materials were recycled – thus those early Dumpster days, searching for tile store castoffs.

But most of all, Sophie liked what mosaic art represented: “It’s about taking broken pieces and creating something beautiful – putting things back together to make something new.”

Creativity Sparks Confidence

Piece by Piece, the social enterprise that Sophie founded, has been doing exactly that since 2007. Last year alone, more than 1,700 people joined an outreach class or hands-on workshop, with about 10 percent of those participating weekly.

For those who are really committed, there’s a certificate program that can lead to steady income.

Classes are taught by professional mosaic artists, and participants work together in groups as a way to build community. Through a four-stage program that starts with safety and basic technique, artisans can rather quickly work their way up to small projects that pay a commission based on sales, and then to hourly wages for public art commissions in high-visibility locations like Universal Studios or the LA County Arboretum.

At Level 4, participants can earn income as teaching assistants while they work on their resume and get help building a portfolio or writing an artist’s statement. The capstone of the certificate program is a solo exhibition of the artisan’s work.

In 2018, Piece by Piece artisans earned nearly $70,000 from selling their work and completing public commissions – a huge confidence boost for people who feel beaten down by life. It’s little wonder, then, that 80 percent of participants reported improved selfconfidence and motivation, while 82 percent reported increased wellness and quality of life.

Those sales are important to the organization, as well, with nearly onethird of the annual budget coming from earned revenue and the balance from public and private grants. With LA’s homeless population especially hard-hit by the coronavirus, Sophie knows that grant funding will be spread thin, and the coming months could be tough for Piece by Piece.

But she’s been there before, with the Great Recession hitting LA just a year after the organization launched. That’s when she really discovered the power of social enterprise, working hard to sell mosaic ware to consumers and businesses as other funding sources dried up.

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Sales of candleholders and award plaques helped to keep the program running through those tough times, and Sophie is confident that retail sales will be a lifeline once again, because some consumers will always look to do more with their spending.

“I think there’s nothing more beautiful than purchasing something with meaning, something with a story behind it, something that helps to improve life for someone. That kind of purchase pays it forward and carries the story forward.”

Stories of Pain & Hope

For the artisans working with Piece by Piece, “the story” is filled with twists and turns. Many of them went to college, started families, had careers – until a pink slip or medical emergency changed everything.

Such experiences often inform the mosaics they create. John, for instance, studied drama and traveled the world before health problems left him bedridden and homeless. His creations might reference his memories of an African landscape or a view of the equatorial sky.

Mike moved to downtown LA to advance a career in graphic design before he got “sidetracked” and lost his way. His mosaics might portray the gleaming city skyline as seen from the perspective of Skid Row or a series of keys that represent his feelings on home and shelter.

“I learned over the years that art has such a healing effect on people who have suffered,” Sophie says. “It can be an outlet for past sufferings.” When artisans are able pour their life experience into their creations, the process can deeply therapeutic. And when someone else buys those creations, the artisans get a kind of affirmation that can be life changing. One after another, Sophie can rattle off names of program participants who found jobs and stability “just because of the self-confidence they gained.”

And that, she says, was the point all along. “We’ve found some unbelievable talent over the course of the program, but the intent was not to create artists. The intent was to create an opportunity for employment.”

(Soils & Barks)

TRENDS INTO POSSIBILITES

By Dr. Ellen O’Sullivan Leisure Lifestyle Consulting

Trends into Possibilities is created by Dr. Ellen O’Sullivan for the California Park & Recreation Society. Questions, comments, and suggestions are welcomed. Please contact Ellen at Ellenosull@gmail.com

We have just lived through (or endured might be a better word) one of the most significant challenges facing our world. And even though we may still live with pandemiclike circumstances for a while, the GOOD News is that NOW is clearly an opportunity era for parks and recreation.

Quick Recap of Society’s Major Challenges Related to the Pandemic Pandemic Deaths

An overwhelming number of the deaths were of people who were obese and/or with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, etc.

Home Centered

Many people were confined to their homes leading to a growing dependence upon technology for work and human connection as well as a burning need for nature and the out-of-doors.

Loneliness

This societal condition has been growing for a while now particularly among teens and older adults and the enforced confinement has taken a toll on overall health and suicide attempts. Think also of working adults who lost the social contact with co-workers overnight.

Natural Disasters

While the numbers of wildfires, flooding, hurricanes, and tornadoes have been increasing over time, the last year was fraught with more extreme conditions that people couldn’t ignore as they watched the devastation on their various devices.

A Lost Generation

This is a term which was last used following World War I which ended in 1918 and now a little over 100 years later we have another lost generation. Consider the teens and young adults who lost proms, graduations, and other special events, not the end of the world but certainly important milestones for that cohort. And what is to become of all the children and youth who lost almost or entirely a year of schooling?

Cultural Division

Doesn’t matter which side of the cultural belief agenda that you fall, the need to bring society back together again is a critical yet monumental goal.

Surging Technology Usage

There are those in the technology world that feel as if the pandemic and the increased reliance upon technology for work, social connection, and entertainment has resulted in ultraforward technological acceptance by a full decade

Focus on Health and Wellness

This time the focus is real, and the two topics are recognized for their individual differences and impact. Health tends to relate to staying healthy physically to avoid problems with pre-existing conditions. The role of wellness has exploded as people seek well-being mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Opportunity for Parks and Recreation

The trends just lead us to pursuing the healing of our society that strongly relate to parks and recreation.

Restore Good Health

Whether it be weight loss, increased physical activity and to a certain extent healthy eating, parks and recreation is uniquely positioned to take a leading role here. Why? Unlike boot camps and diet centers, we have the opportunity to afford people with a variety of “fun” activity and options in an accessible and non-threatening way.

There are things we can do to help tear down the barriers to the physically inactive or underactive.

TIPs (Trends into Possibilities)

• What about offering free or lowcost activities some of which can be held outside in a drop-in format without requiring form fitting clothes, pre-registration or lots of equipment? Help tear down those barriers that people consciously or sub-consciously hold about physical activity. • Hold a monthly “Take a Taste” event where instructors and leisure-related businesses can come together and provide whatever is needed for people to try out different activities. • Remind yourself that Fun is Fundamental to any pursuit of long-term physical activity. If it’s not Fun, it doesn’t become part of one’s life.

Help People Get Out of the House

This is a mixed bag as some people are rushing outside regardless of pandemic conditions while there are others who have been lulled into staying in their homes. Our job is to get them out-of-the-house safely.

TIPs (Trends into Possibilities)

• Utilize the open space you have in parks or gyms and have safe in person events. Recall all of the people who flocked to outdoor concert and community events and let them know how welcome they are and how you have adapted to safe conditions. • Send out a re-invite to everybody on your mailing list to let them know you are open, waiting to welcome them back, and implementing safe measures.

Reduce Loneliness

Sure zoom meet-ups and weekly phone calls to older adults are good things to do, it is likely necessary to focus greater attention to this destructive need. The list of dangers to physical, mental, and emotional health is overwhelming.

TIPs (Trends into Possibilities)

• Invite local therapists and social workers to conduct staff workshops enabling staff as to how to identify people who are lonely and/ or depressed. These professionals can provide some basic suggestions and inform staff as to how to connect these people to professional services. • Do what we have always done. Extend the senior center approach to other groups, i.e., single parents, singles, garage band groups, knitters, etc. • Offer space to self-help groups so perhaps they can reach more people.

Support the Lost Generation TIPs (Trends into Possibilities)

• Are there ways in which your agency can create replicas of some of these special events lost to teens and young adults. Maybe you can hold a revised version of Homecoming that includes a formal dance or ceremony for those who missed them. • Contact your local school district and find out what resources they can provide or bring to your upcoming days camps and summer programs to help children reclaim the learning they lost.

• If your school district is expanding summer school maybe you can send staff to facilitate recess time or orient teachers and aides to such activities.

Make Earth a Better Place

Consider the steps that one agency, one community, or one person can take to make even a small impact on the environment which contributes to natural disasters. While you aren’t expected to become forest fire fighters or first responders, there are some more basic things parks and recreation departments can take on.

TIPs (Trends into Possibilities)

• If you don’t already have a trained environmentalist on staff, send some employees for specific training in this area. • Educate children (and older adults) about steps to recycle and reuse resources. Kids just like to contribute to environmental well-being and many older adults like the side benefit of saving money. • In addition to using recycled waters and putting up signs that you are doing so try adding the amount of water or money saved by this particular fountain, watering system, etc. • When redoing master plans be sure to take into consideration appropriate use of flood plains, bioswales, etc.

Bring People Together

Once again in a similar way to the environment, one agency can not be expected to pull the divisions within a society together but there are some actions you can undertake.

TIPs (Trends into Possibilities)

• Whenever you have a larger event or even a new class, include interactive ways in which people can ask each other questions or tell something interesting about their day. We are not all that different from one another as human beings. When we learn more about others it helps create connections. • Try holding an “All of Us” event.

Communities often have day long or weekend festivals celebrating a particular culture or country. Why

not have one day for all the cultures represented? Form small groups and have each group rotate through the various stations learning a game or simple dance or song representing that group. Food trucks representing different cultures would be an added plus.

Nothing like the Real Thing

People attended live concerts streaming. Students interacted with teachers and professors via technology. Even doctor visits went online whether you liked it or not. But it is a good reminder that “there is nothing like the real thing” and it should be a reminder for parks and recreation that even with the pressure to adopt gaming and AR into their offerings that Parks and Recreation is the real thing

TIPs (Trends into Practice) Virtual Centers

The many rec centers in CA that transformed into virtual centers during the pandemic.

The Power of Peloton

During this time of ‘staying at home’ Peloton reached the largest number of participants in one streaming class with 23,000 people cycling together.

Paper Bag Play

The P&R departments that put together and distributed bags of rec and craft activities for kids.

Class Pass

This nation-wide membership to fitness classes that let their members pick from any classes in over 300,000 facilities.

Teen Vogue’s Prom

A prom complete with celebrity appearances, screen shots, and DJ sets. Prior to the prom, Teen Vogue featured makeup lessons, styling suggestions, and even dance classes.

Flexperiences

With empty office buildings, restaurants, and performance venues are there any possibilities for new uses or even temporary ones. In Lithuania, an airport reused its vacant runways to host a film festival. A recreation center with large, unused spaces, became a school center for children without access to technology or supervision at home.

Park in a Truck

Using people in their play spaces to design and build a neighborhood park.

Adventure Dining

How would you like a one-of-a-kind meal? In Budapest, a company served a four-course dinner on the Budapest Eye Ferris Wheel. A beach front restaurant in Florida offered dinner sitting with your feet in low tide and you washed your food and cares away.

From Bus to Broadband

Some geographically isolated rural areas retrofitted school busses to bring classes to driveways complete with broadband.

Yoga Trail

A department in CT allowed a yoga instructor to transform a portion of a trail to a yoga trail complete with suggestions for appreciation.

Pay to Play

Free recreational sports are still available but disappearing for some traditional sports. According to the Aspen Institute on Play -On average among parents whose children play sports, 12% of parents spent no money for their child to play, but the sport the child plays makes a huge difference. Parents were most likely to report skateboarding (38%) and bicycling (33%) as free, which makes sense given the free play nature of those sports. But parents of kids playing some traditional pay-to-play sports were far less likely to say their kids played for free, such as for ice hockey (5%), baseball (6%), softball (6%), soccer (7%) and gymnastics (7%).

By Henry Perezalonso CPRS Entertainment Reporter

Who needs Lorne Michaels when you have Mark Freeman?

The Good Morning CPRS Producer shares how virtual awards changed his life.

With the world experiencing health orders, mask wearing, playground closures, door dash and basically the shutdown of all we knew and thought we loved a light from Garden Grove shone bright to bring us joy.

Most of us Parks and Recreation professionals wandered a little trying to figure out how we would do what we do. So many agencies were forced to shut down and shift gears. Other duties as assigned became primary duties. We adapted, we overcame, we did what we had to do and more.

One such story of adapting and overcoming hails from Garden Grove a small town in Southern California with over 170,000 residents who live really, really close to Disneyland. Their Community is being served by dedicated professionals like Mark Freeman, Community Services Supervisor, the creative mind that brought to life the District 10 Director’s Desk News not to mention the now beloved Good Morning CPRS.

This reporter had the pleasure of seeing firsthand and supporting the creative mind at work during the production of Good Morning CPRS. What do I know about Mark? Well, what I know is Mark is a family man, who puts his kids to bed nightly starting around 7pm (insert aww here), he is hardworking, a perfectionist, a humble man who has been in the Parks and Recreation profession for several years now. He is younger than me and once he sees I compared him to Lorne Michaels he will probably need to google him. He is a recipient of multiple scholarships offered by CPRS, recently named the D10 Mark Feldman Volunteer of the Year Award winner and is well known in his corner of the world. Generally speaking, he’s a good dude.

I recently had a chance to sit with Mark (virtually of course) and dive into his mind. I wanted to see what it took to adapt years long traditions of in person awards banquets into cinematic treasures that celebrate our professional accomplishments. I thought we’d all like to hear what he learned from the journey and what we can learn from him.

Henry Perezalonso: Mark, tell us a little about what drove you to your new cinematic journey of creating, writing, producing, directing and at moments starring in CPRS award shows?

Mark Freeman: If I had to be honest, it was simply a COVID response. I was on the District 10 Awards Banquet Committee and we weren’t going to be able to celebrate our board accomplishments or the awards in person. We had to think of something different. I had seen that internet show Some Good News that John Krasinski was doing, it was positive, it was light, and it made me smile. As you know in our profession we like to borrow and acquire ideas from others, so I pitch a similar idea to the committee and viola, the Director’s Desk News was born. Who knew that little idea would prompt a call from Stephanie Stephens our CPRS Executive Director? I got the call on a cool November afternoon. After spending about a half hour gushing over the Director’s Desk News and District 10, she asked if I would be interested in bringing the show to the entire state. I was on paternity leave at the time and didn’t have much going on, so after about 3 seconds I said yes.

HP: Besides me, who or what were some of your creative influences for Good Morning CPRS? MF: Besides, you…hmmm. That is a tough one, you’re so dang creative, Henry. HP: Aww, thanks Mark. MF: You’re welcome. I mentioned this earlier, but I would say it definitely was the Some Good News show for sure. It was such a positive vibe. They made me laugh, they made me cry and they did it all in about 15-20 minutes. I just loved those videos. It was a good time. That and I would say Jake Hopkins of the City of Fountain Valley. That kid has some chops. He’s very creative, funny, and willing to stay up until 3 in the morning working on scripts. Oh, and Mark and Chad they aren’t too bad either.

HP: Some may say you provided a ray of sunshine to our profession through the Director’s Desk News and Good Morning CPRS. What would you say you provided? MF: Well, I know we wanted to give our profession something to smile and laugh about. The writing team had to produce 5 different scripts showcasing each CPRS Region and they had to write them in 4 days. In those scripts we wanted to highlight the hard work done by professionals as well as their agencies in a fun, humorous and respectful way. What I hope we provided was the boost, the pep in their step, the morning coffee that kicked off each day of conference in a positive way. To quote our show and Region 4 sport reporter Candice Smith, “Red bull gives you wings!” We hope we provided the wings and the wind beneath those wings to our profession.

HP: You at times pushed the limits of humor sometimes resembling playground humor, how do address the critics of your creativity and humor? MF: Off the record Mark quickly responds to the critics with some creative, professional, and appropriate choice of words. On the record he says to each his own and carpe diem.

HP: What were some of the obstacles that you faced in this journey? MF: Apparently, March came a lot sooner than anticipated with a lot of pieces of the puzzle still coming together, like who the actual award winners were. Although I said yes during paternity leave, little did I know how the pandemic response would have played a part as well. I was assigned the task of running the logistics for our vaccine clinics just as we got really started on the show. We had a tight deadline, we needed to ensure we had a quality product, something we could be proud of. Once we had all the most up to date information, we had to coordinate people from all around our state to help pull off this thing off within a couple of weeks. We were building the plane while flying it.

HP: If others around the state wanted to do venture in this world, what would you tell them to help them be successful? MF: To give yourself more time than you think. For us, we were three weeks out before premiering the show at conference and not one word of the script was written or one second of video was shot. We were also airing Monday’s show while still editing Tuesday’s show. Time is tricky and not always on your side. Make sure your significant other is on board and supportive. My wife was a rock star during this production. I cannot thank her enough. Surround yourself with good creative open-minded people. I was grateful to have you Henry with me through the process. Not to mention Jake and the rest of the writing team from up and down the state. Make sure you have a quality editor. You could have the best script but if it doesn’t get edited well then you don’t have much. Trust the creative process and remember that some of the best ideas may not make it on the air.

HP: How did your life change because of this? MF: Besides getting less sleep, which is saying a lot since I have three kids. I would say that I was reenergized and amazed by the people of CPRS. The real story about all of this was the collaboration from the north to the south. I saw people from about 50 different agencies come together with basically no notice and a tight timeline to give back to make our little show happen. People were positive and grateful to help. My life changed for the better as I have made some great connections in CPRS across the state. I am grateful for each of them.

HP: Let’s switch gears here... I must ask, Mark & Chad, what’s up with that? MF: (After laughing for about 10 minutes straight) No comment.

HP: What have you learned about your profession and CPRS through this experience and how has it helped your agency, district and/or state? MF: I have learned to never doubt the power of being better together. I am so impressed with the people who came together for this and look forward to working on more fun projects with CPRS for CPRS. I also really like how this little show has brought positive attention to Garden Grove. We’re not in the shadow of Disneyland anymore.

HP: You talked about future, what is your next adventure with CPRS? MF: I was just elected to the Presidential series for District 10 and I look forward to helping my district navigate into a post COVID era. Who knows, Hollywood is just a few miles and couple of hours away in traffic. I have big hopes and dreams, maybe some more awards, cash, or a new hat. You never know. We didn’t put the cameras away and rumors of an in person semilive show are out there. So, we will see.

HP: On behalf of CPRS, I want to thank you Mark, for your candor, humor and creativity in spearheading next practices not just best practices for our profession. MF: Thank you for taking the time to interview me. I hope I was able to convey how awesome our profession is especially when we collaborate. It just reminds me of how we all work so hard to bring our communities together in so many ways and we do it for our residents to literally make their lives better. That is what we do it for and CPRS helps us to do that. I am forever grateful to have had the opportunity to direct and produce Good Morning CPRS. Is that too Cheesy? By the way, what are the chances people actually read this?

No Mark, that was not too cheesy, it was just cheesy enough. As Mark and I said our goodbyes, I could not help but remember the closing line of Casablanca that says, “Louis, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.” I am happy and proud to call this man my friend.

This future CPRS Legend unknowingly said yes to an adventure that helped our profession adapt and overcome while providing us with laughter. One day when I grow up, I want to be like “Mike”, I mean Mark. If you get a chance and are near Garden Grove stop by and thank the man behind the scenes that gave us all a little cheer through his other duties as assigned.

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National Academy of Athletics

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(800) 727-1907 www.playandpark.com 544 Chestnut St., Suite 310, Chattanooga, TN 37402 SERVICE: Play & Park delivers a boutique experience with every playground design, from start to finish.

PlayCore

(423) 425-3168 http://www.playcore.com/ 544 Chestnut Street , Chattanooga, TN 37402 SERVICE: PlayCore helps build stronger communities by advancing play and recreation through research, education, partnerships, and products.

Playgrounds by Design, Inc.

(925) 426-6705 3086 Boardwalk Street, Pleasanton, CA 94588 SERVICE: Park Structures, playground safety, surfacing material, concrete products, site furnishings, bleachers, recycled plastic picnic tables and benches. Murdock Super Secur restrooms and drinking fountains.

Playgrounds Unlimited

(408) 244-9848 www.playgroundsunlimited.net 980 Memorex Drive, Santa Clara, CA 95050 SERVICE: Construction services; site preparation; play equipment; water play; shade shelter installation; pour-inplace & synthetic turf safety surface.

PlayPower LT Farmington

(916) 923-2180 www.littletikescommercial.com 3844 Presidio Street, Sacramento, CA 95838 SERVICE: Accessible outdoor playground equipment including unique theme playscapes and park service equipment.

PlaySafe, LLC

(505) 899-9532 www.play-safe.com PO Box 66056, Albuquerque, NM 87193-6056 SERVICE: Playground audits, maintenance training, strategic master plan development, feasibility studies, expert witnesses, & recreation program development.

Premier Aquatics

(949) 716-3333 www.swimoc.com 36 Argonaut, Suite 130, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656 SERVICE: Facility management, swim lessons and team, contract lifeguards, Red Cross classes.

Public Restroom Company

(888) 888-2060 www.publicrestroomcompany.com 2587 Business Parkway, Minden, NV 89423 SERVICE: Public Restroom Company is a design build specialist for odor free, vandal resistant, park restroom, and concession buildings.

R. E. Schultz Construction, Inc.

(714) 649-2627 www.reschultzconstruction.com 1767 N. Batavia Street, Orange, CA 92865 SERVICE: General engineering contractor/playground eq. installation/park rehabs/fitness eq. installation. Site work/concrete/shade shelter installations.

R.J. Thomas Mfg. Co./Pilot Rock

(800) 762-5002 www.pilotrock.com P.O. Box 946, Cherokee, IA 510120946 SERVICE: Manufacturing and direct sales of park grills, picnic tables, benches, campfire rings, trash receptacle holders, etc.

Recreation Management Magazine

(847) 963-8740 www.recmanagement.com 50 North Brockway Street Suite 4-11, Palatine, IL 60067 SERVICE: Recreation Management Magazine provides news, trands, and educational information for parks & recreation professinals.

RecWest Outdoor Products, Inc.

(818) 735-3838 www.recwest.com 31316 Via Colinas, #118, Westlake Village, CA 91362 SERVICE: Representing Landscape Structures Inc., DuMor Site Furnishings.

RHA Landscape Architects - Planners, Inc.

(951) 781-1930 www.rhala.com 6800 Indiana Avenue, Suite 245, Riverside, CA 92506 SERVICE: Park & sports facility planning, LEED certified, water conservation design, community consensus building, park rehabilitation.

RJM Design Group, Inc.

(949) 493-2600 www.rjmdesigngroup.com 31591 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 SERVICE: Park and sports facility master planning and design; park and recreation master planning; landscape architecture; LEED Certified; community consensus building.

Robertson Recreational Surfaces

(800) 858-0519 www.totturf.com 2414 W 12th Street, Suite 5, Tempe, AZ 85281 SERVICE: Robertson Recreational Surfaces sells, manufactures, and installs resilient rubber safety surfacing, synthetic turf, and accessories.

ROMTEC, Inc.

(541) 496-3541 www.romtec.com 18240 North Bank Road, Roseburg, OR 97470 SERVICE: Design, build, and install recreational structures ie: restroom buildings,concessions, kiosks, pavilions, storage buildings, gatehouses, cabins, sidewalk restrooms, etc.

Ross Recreation Equipment Company, Inc.

(707) 538-3800 www.rossrec.com 100 Brush Creek Road #206, Santa Rosa, CA 95404 SERVICE: 44 years of providing superior recreational & outdoor products and service with attention to quality, safety, and design.

Royston, Hanamoto, Alley & Abey

(415) 383-7900 www.rhaa.com 225 Miller Avenue, Mill Valley, CA 94941 SERVICE: Landscape architecture, site planning, master planning, urban design, and recreation planning services locally, nationally, and internationally.

RRM Design Group

(805) 543-1794 www.rrmdesign.com 3765 South Higuera Street, Suite 102, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 SERVICE: RRM Design Group designs award-winning recreation areas by collaborating with people who use them.

RWP Landscape Materials

(877) 476-9797 www.rwpmulch.com 1313 E Phillips Blvd, Pomona, CA 91766-5431 SERVICE: RWP FIBER FALL-Impact attenuating and ADA wheelchair accessible engineered wood fibers for playground safety surfacing.

S.R.Smith LLC

(503) 266-2231 x2278 http://thermalpoolcover.com/ 1017 SW Berg Parkway, Canby, OR 97013 SERVICE: Manufacturer of “EnergySaver” thermal swimming pool covers, storage reels, and automatic re-winders.

Safe 2 Play - Certified Matters

(925) 999-0117 www.PlaygroundSafetyInspections.net 1008 Veterans Court, Martinez, CA 94553 SERVICE: Certified playground safety inspections, safety surface impact testing on playgrounds, & sports fields.

SafePark

(800) 734-4882 www.SafePark.com 23052 Alcalde Drive, Suite C, Laguna Hills, CA 92653 SERVICE: Playground audits, inspections, Impact Testing-Traix-2010, playground maintenance, repair, complete certified playground refurbishment, and upgrades.

Sator Sports, Inc.

(888) 887-2867 www.satorsoccer.com 1455 W. 139th St., Gardena, CA 90249 Service: Retailer of top-quality Agora Goals & Equipment. Call for Volume Pricing and free catalog.

Schmidt Design Group, Inc.

(619) 236-1462 www.schmidtdesign.com 1310 Rosecrans Street, Suite G, San Diego, CA 92106 SERVICE: Landscape architecture, park planning, and design that balances artistic expression with environmental sensitivity.

SCI Consulting Group

(707) 430-4300 www.sci-cg.com 4745 Mangels Blvd., Fairfield, CA 94534 SERVICE: New revenue feasibility studies, ballot measures, assessment district formations, and administration.

Shaw Sports Turf

(706) 879-3643 www.shawsportsturf.com 185 S. Industrial Blvd, Calhoun, GA 30701 SERVICE: Industry leading synthetic turf sport fields with over 3,000 installations.

SoCal Shade Sails

(619) 972-1100 www.shadesails.biz 10449 Roselle St., San Diego, CA 92121 SERVICE: Manufacture and install custom made, commercial grade shade sails, triangles, rectangles, side panels, steel.

SofSurfaces Inc.

(800) 263-2363 x224 www.sofsurfaces.com 4393 Discovery Line, Petrolia, ON N0N 1R0 SERVICE: Rubber tile solutions for playground, fitness facility, and architectural applications.

SolarSynthesis

(860) 280-7931 www.solarsynthesis.us 114 Cornerstone Drive, South Windsor, CT 06074 SERVICE: Solar powered charging stations for phones, tables and laptops.

Southern California Municipal Athletic Federation

(626) 448-0853 x16 www.scmaf.org P.O. Box 3605, 823 Lexington Gallantin Road, South El Monte, CA 91733 SERVICE: Professional training, education, and networking; insurance services; sport rules, training, and competition for youth and adults.

Spohn Ranch, Inc. Custom Skate Parks

(626) 330-5803 www.spohnranch.com 6824 S. Centinela Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90230 SERVICE: Skate park design, construction, operation, and insurance. The leader in responsible skatelite, concrete, and hybrid parks.

SSA Landscape Architects, Inc.

(831) 459-0455 www.ssala.com 303 Potrero Street, 40-C, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 SERVICE: Award winning parks & recreation master planning, community workshops/consensus building, construction documentation/administration.

StructureCast

(661) 833-4490 http://www.structurecast.com/ 8261 McCutchen Road, Bakersfield, CA 93311 SERVICE: Precast, pre-engineered restroom, & concession buildings.

SVA Architects, Inc.

(949) 809-3380 www.sva-architects.com 6 Hutton Centre Drive, Suite1150, Santa Ana, CA 92707 SERVICE: SVA Architects is a full-service architectural firm committed to creating sustainable environments for our communities.

SyberTech Waste Reduction Ltd.

(888) 888-7975 www.swrl.com P.O. Box 3009 - 33191 1st Avenue, Mission, B.C. V2V1G0 SERVICE: Our in-ground trash system, self-watering planters, and other products greatly save operational costs.

Synthetic Surfaces, Inc.

(908) 233-6803 www.nordot.com P. O. Box 241, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076 SERVICE: NORDOT Adhesive for installing synthetic turf athletic fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, recreational and aquatic surfaces.

TMT Enterprises, Inc.

(408) 432-9040 www.tmtenterprises.net 1996 Oakland Road, San Jose, CA 95131 SERVICE: Bulk Material Supplier - baseball surfaces, playground materials, top dress sand, topsoil, soil mixes, decomposed granite, organics.

TRK Playground Safety, L.L.C.

(559) 642-4939 www.trkplay.com 46853 Chukchansi Road, Coarsegold, CA 93614 SERVICE: Statewide; playground audits and inspections; attenuation surface impact testing; playground design; and safety education and awareness.

Trueline

(951) 817-0777 http://gotrueline.com 1651 Market St., Ste B, Corona, CA 92880 SERVICE: Resurfacing of tennis courts, basketball courts, game courts, playgrounds, striping, installation of equipment, and refurbishment.

Turf Star, Inc.

(800) 585-8001 www.turfstar.com 2438 Radley Court, Hayward, CA 94545 SERVICE: Commercial mowing equipment & irrigation.

USA Shade & Fabric Structures

(707) 257-7296 www.usa-shade.com PO Box 3467, Coppell, TX 75019-3406 SERVICE: USA Shade provides shade solutions for everything under the sun!

USGreentech

(513) 371-5520 www.usgreentech.com 5076 Wooster Road, Cincinnati, OH 45226 SERVICE: USGreentech provides progressive infills for the synthetic turf market including their products Envirofill and Safeshell.

Verde Design, Inc.

(408) 985-7200 www.verdedesigninc.com 2455 the Alameda, Suite 200, Santa Clara, CA 95050 SERVICE: Multi-disciplinary office of landscape architects and civil engineers with a focus on community projects.

Vineyard Rock Products

(831) 637-6443 www.vineyardrockproducts.com 1781 Limekiln Road, Hollister, CA 95023 SERVICE: Decorative granite products.

Vorgee USA

(949) 683-8638 6 Journey, #160, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656 SERVICE: Vorgee is a leading Australian swim brands. Vorgee USA distributes Vorgee products out of Orange County, CA

Water Odyssey By Fountain People, Inc.

(512) 392-1155 www.waterodyssey.com P.O. Box 807, 4600 Hwy. 123, San Marcos, TX 78667-0807 SERVICE: Leading manufacturer of aquatic playground and fountain equipment.

Waterline Technologies

(714) 564-9100 www.waterlinetechnologies.com 620 Santiago Street, Santa Ana, CA 92701 SERVICE: Sales and service for aquatic facilities - chemical delivery

West Coast Arborists, Inc.

(714) 991-1900 www.wcainc.com 2200 E. Via Burton Street, Anaheim, CA 92806 SERVICE: WCA provides public agencies, school districts, and colleges with urban forestry management and maintenance services.

West Coast Turf

(760) 340-7300 www.westcoastturf.com P.O. Box 4563, Palm Desert, CA 92261 SERVICE: Growers and installers of premium quality natural turfgrass sod.

Western State Builders

(760) 270-8639 www.westernstatebuilder.com 2141 Orange Avenue, Escondido, CA 92029 SERVICE: Playground Installation, shade structure installation, site furnishing installation.

Who Built Creative Builders Inc.

(707) 763-6210 www.whobuilt.biz P.O. Box 1568, Shafter, CA 93263 SERVICE: Installation of play equipment and athletic equipment.

Zamorins Solutions Inc.

(515) 778-2677 www.parkzapp.com 5730 NW 4th Ct, Des Moines, IA 50313 SERVICE: Parkzapp is a customizable park inspection application to inspect playgrounds, sports fields, parking lots, sidewalkts etc.

Zasueta Contracting, Inc.

(619) 589-0609 www.zasuetacontracting.com P. O. Box 866, Spring Valley, CA 91976 SERVICE: Playground equipment installation.

ZGolf Food & Beverage Services, LLC dba Wedgwood Weddings

(951) 491-8110, Ex. 326 www.wedgewoodweddings.com 43385 Business Park Drive #210, Temecula, CA 92590 SERVICE: Professional full service food & beverage management and operations with a focus on weddings, special events, and golf course F&B operations.

In Memorium

Kimberly Williams

Kimberly Williams. passed away on February 11th, 2021 unexpectedly after a courageous battle with cancer.

As a member of the USGreentech and Motz family since 2016, Kimberly radiated positivity with her team, clients, and partners. We will remember her exceptional ability to build strong relationships and her incredible dedication to her career.

She was passionate about raising awareness and educating young women about breast cancer through her personal journey. Kimberly was a dedicated activist and a Susan G. Komen Circle of Promise Ambassador, a group designed to engage African American women to help end breast cancer by fostering awareness, support, empowerment, and action.

Kimberly will be greatly missed by her family and friends. She wanted to make sure everyone around her had a beautiful day. She was remarkable and will be remembered that way by all.

Kimberly’s legacy can be remembered and honored by contributing to the Susan G Komen foundation in her name.

Ezra Holland

Ezra Holland, a lecturer in the Department of Recreation, Parks & Tourism passed on Sunday, September 21, 2020.

Ezra completed both his B.S. and M.S. degrees in recreation from SF State in 2000. Due to his knowledge, skills, and abilities working with both faculty (e.g., research and consulting) and students (e.g., teaching assistant and ropes course facilitator), Ezra was invited to be a lecturer in the department and later was also hired as Director of SF State’s Pacific Leadership Institute.

His 10 years of teaching at SF State led to other accomplishments, which included a publication Playful Teaching Practices, presentations (e.g., 1000+ keynotes and workshops at state, national, and international recreation, leadership, and play conferences), teaching (e.g., adjunct faculty in the School of Business at Endicott College), and starting the Holland Group (2005) – a consulting firm focused on building efficiency, improving communication, and increasing management skills through action-based learning.

Remembrances for a ‘book’ for his children and family may be sent to Dr. Bill Michaelis: wiljmich@ sfsu.edu

In Celebration

https://patch.com/california/ oceanside-camppendleton/oceanside-legends-eileen-lohner-turkfriends-oceanside-parks

Eileen Lohner-Turk Shares Her Passion for Friends of Oceanside Parks

By Lisa Frost, Patch Staff

Most people in Oceanside know Eileen LohnerTurk as the “Parks Gal”. In fact, parks are a family tradition in Eileen’s family as her dad was also a Parks and Recreation director.

In 2016, Eileen received the Helen I. Pontius National Award of Merit for significant contributions to the organization and for demonstrating a high standard of involvement and achievement in her community.

Even after retiring from the City Of Oceanside Parks & Recreation department in 2018, Eileen continues her work for the parks, but now as a volunteer for Friends of Oceanside Parks. Few people care or do more to support Oceanside Parks than Eileen Lohner-Turk.

“Parks make life better,” says Eileen, “that is the driving force behind the Friends of Oceanside Parks. From organizing free concerts and movies to special events like Oceanside Heritage Day, our goal is to support and fund Oceanside’s parks, rec centers, and municipal pools.”

When she isn’t volunteering with the Friends of Oceanside Parks, Eileen keeps busy as a freelance reporter for KOCT TV, Oceanside’s Community Television. “On The Scene With Eileen” takes viewers out and about to see what’s going on around Oceanside.

Everything Eileen does conveys a sense of joy and passion for life that inspires everyone she meets. Her spirit-filled attitude brings people together and reminds us to get involved in our community and have fun while doing it.

https://abc30.com/sports/bulldogbreakdown-former-track-andfield-athlete-now-helping-fresnostate-students/10395489/

Former Track and Field Star Now Teaching Fresno State Students

By Brandon Johansen

When Dr. Brandon Taylor first heard about Fresno State, he didn’t know much about being a Bulldog.

“All I knew at the time was the basketball team and Chris Herren,” he said. “They were on TV all the time.”

But now it’s hard to imagine him in any color other than Bulldog Red.

“I walk on campus every day and I tell my students, ‘I’ve literally been in the seats that you are in.’”

Continued from page 6

to take a deep breath, give yourself a break, praise and congratulate a friend, and pat each other on the back for the great work that you do.

I love hearing the stories coming from your communities and within our Districts and Sections. I encourage you to share them so that the Board of Directors may recognize you with a 5-Snaps, or CPRS Staff may highlight you in this magazine. Please look for new ways in which information is shared with our membership through social media, our enhanced website and direct communication from me. I will provide CPRS updates, share relevant topics, and introduce special guests that will share inspiring messages with you all.

The Board of Directors is committed to continuing conversations around Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion or JEDI as it is commonly referred to. We pledge to continue this important work and provide resources, information and assistance to our Districts and Sections to engage in conversations and opportunities that impact our CPRS communities.

CPRS celebrates 75 years as your professional membership society this year. Three quarters of a century is quite an accomplishment for any association, business or government agency. Just look at cities across the state when they celebrate 50, 60, 70, or more years. They make sure residents and communities know. Well, this year is a Diamond Jubilee year and while none of us were here in the beginning we are all setting the table for where we will be in the future. I encourage you all to share in this celebration as additional details and opportunities are released.

In the coming months I will be collaborating with all CPRS leadership to develop and secure our importance as we fill a time capsule. I envision it filled with our images, history and messages of where we are and the advancements we are striving to make. This time capsule will be mounted at the CPRS Headquarters in Sacramento with specific instructions to not open until 2046. This is when CPRS will celebrate 100 years of advancing our profession with a centennial celebration. I hopefully will not be working then, but will happily return for the centennial celebration and opportunity to connect with friends. For those members who are starting their careers, I look to you as the future leaders of CPRS and challenge you to carry our history forward.

Today and every day we are all members of One CPRS. We support one another, lift each other up and understand what our friends are feeling because we Take 5 minutes to talk to one another. You, me…WE are never alone. Each of us has a network that surrounds you through KNOW1 BE1 SHOW1. You KNOW someone who you can confide in, many of you BE1 to help someone through a challenge, and some of you SHOW1 through your involvement and dedication to the profession.

We are stronger, wiser, and will always be BETTER TOGETHER knowing that the strength of our profession is the culmination of all of us coming together and being there for the person to the right of us and the person to the left us.

As the 75th President of the California Park & Recreation Society, I feel so very honored to serve you and represent this great society. I would like to share an inspiring quote from someone whose teachings have meant so much to me over the years and who I consistently learn from on my journey in Learning from WHY. Simon Sinek said, “When we help ourselves, we find moments of happiness. When we help others, we find lasting fulfillment.”

May we all find lasting fulfillment in our ability to help others, and may we hold onto this fulfillment as fuel to continue our essential work. I cannot think of a greater responsibility then that of having your trust to do what is right and continue the CPRS purpose.

Stay Safe-Stay Strong-Stay Healthy!

Best Wishes

A Phoenix native who moved around a lot growing up, Taylor ended up coming to Fresno State as a long jumper on the track and field team in the late 90s.

“I came to Fresno State as a walk-on in 1997,” he said. “Primarily long jump, also competed in triple jump and high jump. Through competitions and leadership, I ended up being a team captain.”

That choice to come to Fresno State led to more than just success in sports.

“You hear folks say it was the best decision of their life, but for me, it probably was,” he said.

Taylor met his wife at Fresno State, started a family in the Central Valley and is now serving as an assistant professor at the Department of Recreation Administration, teaching students who want to go into a number of career paths, including community work and parks and rec departments.

That choice to come to Fresno State has led to over 20 years wearing Bulldog red and although he now knows everything about being a Bulldog, he may be wearing other colors once in a while.

“My oldest just got into UC Merced, so I keep teasing him that since 1997, I will not have worn another university’s colors,” he said. “I’ll have to wear a bit of blue and gold, but I’ve been wearing red and blue and white for the last 24 years. So it’s going to take some getting used to.”