Message From The Director

I hope this spring/summer edition of Leisure Magazine finds you healthy and reinvigorated by the colors of nature washing over the winter landscape. Our community has been challenged in unprecedented ways over the past year and like you, we are yearning for a quick return to the things we love. With the quickening pace of vaccinations in our region, normalcy is on the horizon. As Ladybird Johnson said, “where flowers bloom so does hope.”

In the face of hardship, our passionate staff continues to work tirelessly to create the safest, most enriching programs possible to re-center your mind, body, and spirit. Almost all our basic services—from fitness and aquatics to preschool and historic programs—are now being offered, albeit with limited capacity and new procedures to ensure your safety. It has been heartwarming to observe friends, neighbors, and families enjoying time together in-person again and utilizing our outdoor spaces at a level never seen before.

This spring and summer we are offering a myriad of exciting recreation programs including adult archery, full moon hikes, standup paddleboard yoga and the Fishing Derby at Locust Shade Park. In addition, we have planned an abundance of Historic Preservation programs including a Juneteenth celebration at the Lucasville School, the Anniversary of the Battle of Kettle Run Weekend, and a Bluegrass Concert series at Brentsville Courthouse Historic Center.

We are pleased to announce that we are planning to offer an outdoor pool season! Our hope is to open as many pools as possible, which will depend on staffing availability. Pool operations will be modified to meet the Governor’s guidelines. We will release more details as we get closer to Memorial Day. We are seeking lifeguards, attendants, cashiers, and concession workers to join our team. We provide competitive pay, paid training, free uniforms, and practical job skills that will last a lifetime. The minimum age is 15. Please visit www.governmentjobs.com/careers/pwcgov/ promotionaljobs for more information.

We are offering another award-winning summer camp line-up this year. The Summer Camp Season for ages 3 to 17 will begin on June 14. Whether you are looking for a full or half day camp, or a variety or special interest camp, we have over 300 options to choose from. Please see the Camp Guide for more Information. Our COVID safety protocols include temperature taking, small class size, and masking requirements. We are seeking energetic counselors to join our team. They must be 18 and have experience working with children. Please visit www.governmentjobs. com/careers/pwcgov/promotionaljobs for more information.

We are proud to offer programs for participants of all ages and abilities, including adapted summer camp, dance, kayaking, archery, paint nights and Zumba®. Please contact accessibility coordinator Veronica Laughman, vlaughman@pwcgov.org to discuss your inclusion needs.

Visit the Dale City Farmer’s Market on Sundays, 8am-1pm, at the corner of Minnieville Road and Gemini Way (original location) for a unique selection of artisan goods and select produce: www.dalecitymarket.com.

Fall Priority Pre-School Registration for current participants will begin on Thursday, April 15.

Look out for a membership pass promotion sale for the Chinn Aquatic and Fitness Center and Sharon Baucom Dale City Recreation Center early this spring. Both centers are now open (with a registration system for use) and offering all traditional programming in addition to some new classes including outdoor adult fitness and Full Moon Yoga on the Neabsco Creek Boardwalk.

I am excited to announce our newest web tool, Rec Mapper: www.pwcrecmapper.com. This mobile friendly site allows you to search for new parks, trails, and facilities to explore in Prince William County. A full description of each park or facility will help you to take your fitness to the next level, connect with nature, or explore our history.

As always, thank you for opening up Leisure Magazine—Prince William County’s go-to source for all things recreation. Until we meet again, please remain vigilant in following Commonwealth and Federal guidelines for COVID prevention. Safety is our top priority, and our staff will continue providing the safest environment possible for your visit. With Gratitude,

Seth Hendler-Voss Director of Parks, Recreation & Tourism Prince William County, VA (O)(703) 792-4284