Summer 2014 VRPS Magazine by Jim Stutts

Virginia Parks & Recreation

Official Publication of the Virginia Recreation & Park Society

60th Annual Conference

Omni Homestead Hot Springs, VA

December 6 - 9, 2014

www.vrps.com

Summer 2014

Virginia Recreation & Park Society n SUMMER 2014

Official Publication of the Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Volume 63 Summer 2014

Virginia Recreation & Park Society 6372 Mechanicsville Turnpike Suite 109 Mechanicsville, VA 23111 Phone: 804-730-9447 Fax: 804-730-9455 vrps@vrps.com www.vrps.com

Contents

Features & Departments 4 Message from the President 5 2014 VRPS Board, Key Leaders and Staff 6 News from the Reston Community Center and Reston Association Member Profiles: Debbie Heron, CPRP & Laura Kowalski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James C. Stutts, CAE, CPRP Member Services Coordinator Nancy Turnage Editor Amy-Jo Hendrix, CPRP

8 News from Danville Danville One of Two in Virginia to Receive Playful City USA Distinction 9 News from Danville How Do You Play? 9 News from the City of Williamsburg National Softball Association gives Kiwanis Park the 2013 Outstanding Park Award

Send Articles to:ahendrix@viennava.gov or AmyJo Hendrix, CPRP, Town of Vienna Parks and Recreation, 120 Cherry St. SE, Vienna, VA 22180 Virginia Parks and Recreation is published three times per year by the Virginia Recreation & Park Society, Inc. VRPS is a non-profit professional organization supported by membership dues and contributions. VRPS is affiliated with the National Recreation & Park Association. Subscription Information. Members receive the magazine as part of their annual membership dues. The magazine is available by subscription for $25 per year. Requests for subscription should be directed to VRPS, 6372 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Suite 109, Mechanicsville, VA 23111. Editorial Statement: Statements of fact and opinions are the responsibility of the authors alone and do not imply an opinion on the part of the officers, members or staff of the Virginia Recreation and Park Society or the Foundation of the Virginia Recreation and Park Society.

10 News from Fairfax County Park Authority Park Supervisor Trains Puppies to Assist Disabled Adults 12 News from Fairfax County Park Authority What Do You Think About This Group of People?

14 News from VRPS Annual Conference A Diamond Celebration 17 News from Norfolk

MEAC Brings Exciting Tourney to Norfolk, and Skills for Youth Too!

18 News from Washington County Ripple Effect: The Power of Community and Action in Washington County

MISSION The mission of the Virginia Recreation and Park Society is to unite all professionals, students, and interested lay persons engaged in the field of recreation, parks, and other leisure services in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

SUMMER 2014 n Virginia Recreation & Park Society

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Want to Get Involved?

SUMMER HAS PLENTY OF OPPORTUNITES!

e are half way through the year and what a year it’s been so far. As you will remember my focus for the year was member involvement. To become engaged and participate in the opportunities provided by the Society and our Service Areas and Resource Groups. Since returning to Virginia in early April from Colorado, I have been busy catching up and getting out to see and be involved in as many VRPS activities as possible. I have not been alone and the variety of offerings runs the spectrum of possibility. In March, the Athletic Fields 401 kicked off with 4 back to back Toro Workshops in Salem, Fairfax, Henrico and Chesapeake. In total 187 participated in the workshops. The following week, the City of Newport News hosted a Certified Playground Safety Institute for another 44 participants. April brought us the Leadership Training Institute at Wintergreen; what a wonderful opportunity to connect, learn and build relationships for the 67 participants and all the committee. The Western Service Area also hosted an Outdoor Adventure Programming workshop in Harrisonburg to an enthusiastic group of 28. May brought us the Virginia Senior Games, again hosted by the City of Newport News, where 1,018 athletes gathered for the National Qualifying event. Parks, Recreation & Tourism Director, Michael Poplawski, issued a Director’s Challenge at last year’s annual conference for participation in this year’s event. Four directors: Carol Steele, John Carnifax, Brian Fuller, Greg Sager and I joined him for 18 entertaining holes

...Memorial Day has come and gone, the unofficial start of summer and blast forward.

of mini golf. Finally, Eastern Service Area host a CPRP Boot Camp with Dr Eddie Hill and Dr Jennifer Goff from Old Dominion University for 13 prospective new certified professionals. So now Memorial Day has come and gone, the unofficial start of summer and blast forward. The coming months will bring more opportunities for involvement and participation. Northern Service Area will be hosting a CPRP Prep Workshop in Sterling, Eastern Service Area will again host Summer Survival, Aquatics Resource Group will be hosting Leadership Lifeguarding,

Virginia Recreation & Park Society n SUMMER 2014

Art Thatcher, CPRP, AFO, MPA President, Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Senior Resource Group is putting on a Spring Workshop, Hershey Track and Field events will be held and Rockingham/ Harrisonburg will offer another CPSI course. Pam Sheets and the members of the Awards and Citation Committee are introducing a new process for submissions and excited about the presentation at the annual conference. Planning has begun for the Management Conference to be held in Suffolk in 2015 and the 2015 Annual Conference Committee has started working in preparation to visit Virginia Beach with Co-Chairs Kathy Williams and Shannon Moore. And if that’s doesn’t excite you, we will close out the year with our 60th Annual Conference at the Omni Homestead Resort in December! Finally I’d like to thank the 2014 State Conference Committee, they have worked hard, been creative and innovative, and are planning the 60th Annual Conference that will be remembered for many years to come. Conference Co-Chairs Cindy Roeder and Laura McCarty have shown great leadership and inclusion. In closing, I would like to acknowledge the departure of Marlene Bresee, Virginia Recreation and Park Society Office Manager, who left the Society effective May 9, 2014. Marlene was with VRPS for over ten years and provided exceptional service, dedication, and hard work. The VRPS Board of Director and the members of the Society wish Marlene all the best and thanks her for her contributions and dedication over the years.

GreenPlay LLC Hanover County Parks & Rec Portsmouth Parks, Rec & Leisure Services VA Dept. of Health Virginia Rec & Park Society GreenPlay LLC Portsmouth Parks, Rec & Leisure Services Gloucester Parks, Rec & Tourism Fairfax County Park Authority Virginia Beach Parks & Rec Virginia Beach Parks & Rec Hanover County Parks & Rec City of Fairfax Parks & Rec Isle of Wight Parks & Rec VADept. of Health Virginia Rec. & Park Society Henrico Division of Rec & Parks Suffolk Parks & Rec Arlington Co. Dept. of Parks & Rec Lynchburg Parks & Rec Harrisonburg Parks & Rec

757-592-3103 art@greenplayllc.com 804-365-4697 mgdurrer@hanovercounty.gov 757-393-8481x4102 thornem@portsmouthva.gov 804-864-7897 rita.miller@vdh.virginia.gov 804-730-9447 jim@vrps.com 757-592-3103 art@greenplayllc.com 757-393-8481x4102 thornem@portsmouthva.gov 804-693-1270 klegg@gloucesterva.info 703-969-2026 cynthia.messinger@fairfaxcounty.gov 757-385-1122 mkalvort@vbgov.com 757-474-8877 kdwillia@vbgov.com 804-365-4697 mgdurrer@hanovercounty.gov 703-385-7853 mmccarty@fairfaxva.gov 757-357-5951 lturner@isleofwight.net 804-864-7897 rita.miller@vdh.virginia.gov 804-730-9447 jim@vrps.com 804-290-0305 rei30@co.henrico.va.us 757-514-7251 lwatson@suffolkva.us 703-228-4735 lstuler@arlingtonva.us 434-455-582 maggie.mace@lynchburgva.gov 540-433-9168 lynnt@harrisonburgva.gov

Aquatics Nicole Marko, AFO Cultural Diversity Athletics Seniors Jennifer Collins Outdoors Therapeutic Recreation Julie Saum

Fairfax County Park Authority

703-281-6501

nicole.marko@fairfaxcounty.gov

Arlington Co. of Parks & Rec

804-751-4135

JonesJ@chesterfield.gov

Woodrow Wilson Rehab Center

703-332-7270

julie.saum@wwrc.virginia.gov

Annual Conference Foundation Awards & Citations Hershey Track & Field LTI 2014 Management Conference Professional Education Virginia Senior Games Legislative

Cindy Roeder Laura McCarty, CPRP Greg Sager Pamela Sheets, CPRP, CPSI Paul W. Berryman Nancy Ellis, CPRP Jane Shelhorse, CPRP Lakita Watson, CPRP Shannon Moore, CPRP Karen Washington Kevin Myers Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Art Thatcher, CPRP

Herndon Parks & Rec Northern VA Regional Park Authority Hanover County Parks & Rec Shenandoah Co. Parks & Rec Virginia Beach Parks & Rec James City County Parks & Rec Louisa County Parks & Rec Suffolk Parks & Rec Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Newport News Parks, Rec & Tourism Newport News Parks, Rec & Tourism Virginia Rec & Park Society GreenPlay LLC

703-435-6800x2123 cindy.roeder@herndon-va.gov 703-359-4614 lmccarty@vrpa.org 804-365-4690 rgsager@hanovercounty.gov 540-459-6777 psheets@shenandoahcountyva.us 757-426-0022 pberryma@vbgov.com 757-259-5370 nancy.ellis@jamescitycountyva.gov 540-967-4420 jshelhorse@louisa.org 757-514-7251 lwatson@suffolkva.us 757-385-0420 smoore@vbgov.com 757-926-1400 kwashington@nngov.com 757-926-1414 kmyers@nngov.com 804-730-9447 jim@vrps.com 757-592-3103 art@greenplayllc.com

CEO Interim Admin. Assistant

Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Nancy Turnage

Virginia Rec & Park Society Virginia Rec & Park Society

804-730-9447 804-730-9447

VRPS Staff

Enterprise Group Chairs

Board of Directors

Executive Board Service Area Chairs

President Vice President Treasurer Lay Member Executive Director President Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Lay Member Executive Director Central Eastern Northern Southwestern Western

Resource Group Chairs

2014 VRPS BOARDS KEY LEADERS & STAFF Art Thatcher, CPRP Marcy Durrer, CPRP Margaret Thorne Rita Miller Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Art Thatcher, CPRP Margaret Thorne Katey Legg, CPRP Cindy Messinger,CPRP Michael Kalvort, CPRE Kathy Williams, CTRS Marcy Durrer, CPRP Michael McCarty, CPRP LaTanya Turner Rita Miller Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Aaron Reidmiller, CPRP Lakita Watson, CPRP Lesley Stuler Maggie Mace, CPRP, AFO Lynn Turner

jim@vrps.com nancy@vrps.com

Board Liaisons Central Service Area Eastern Service Area Northern Service Area Southwestern Service Area Western Service Area Aquatics Athletics Cultural Diversty Outdoors: Seniors Therapeutic Recreation LTI

Marcy Durrer Margaret Thorne, Michael Kalvort Mike McCarty, Cindy Messinger LaTanya Turner LaTanya Turner Cindy Messinger

Mary Durrer, Jim Stutts Kathy Williams Margaret Thorne, Marcy Durrer, Michael Kalvort

Professional Education Virginia Senior Games Hershey Track & Field Legislation Awards & Citations Annual Conference ‘14 Foundation Management Conference ’15

Jim Stutts Jim Stutts, Art Thatcher Michael Kalvort Art Thatcher, Jim Stutts Art Thatcher Katey Legg Jim Stutts Jim Stutts

Go to: www.vrps.com for a calendar of events Revised 6/10/14 SUMMER 2014 n Virginia Recreation & Park Society

NEWS FROM RESTON COMMUNITY CENTER member profile

Debbie Heron, CPRP Youth Director, Reston Community Center

Job Position – Director of Youth Programs

Favorite experience on the job – seeing kids learn something new and watching them have fun

Education – City University of New York in Queens Professional memberships – VRPS, CPRP

Toughest part of the job – turning children away from a program because we don’t have enough space or funding

Hometown – Formerly Little Neck, New York; currently Reston, Va.

Favorite recreational activity – playing with our dogs, doing mosaics, needlepoint

Family – Married to Andrew for 26 years, children, Elizabeth (25) and James (21), two dogs, Grace (12), a Siberian Husky, and Laszlo (3), a Great Pyrenees/Borzoi mix

Favorite book – Pillars of the Earth If you could go anywhere in the world where would it be – It’s a tie - Scotland or Italy

NEWS FROM THE RESTON ASSOCIATION member

profile

Laura Kowalski Deputy Director for Recreation

Position – Deputy Director for Recreation (as of April 24!)

Favorite experience on the job – turning pool rats into future lifeguards

Education – nearly finished with Health, Fitness, and Recreation Resources, BS at GMU

Toughest part of the job opening 15 pools on time each year

Professional Memberships – VRPS, NRPA

Favorite recreational activity – being a budding triathlete

Hometown Reston, VA

Favorite book How to Eat Fried Worms by Thomas Rockwell (well at least as a youngster!)

Family – Husband Kevin, daughter Haley, son Jackson

If you could go anywhere in the world where would it be – Disneyworld

Virginia Recreation & Park Society n SUMMER 2014

Congratulations to the

2014 lti graduates

24 E. Cary Street, Suite 100 | Richmond, VA | 540-907-2008

SUMMER 2014 n Virginia Recreation & Park Society

NEWS FROM DANVILLE

Danville One of Two in Virginia to Receive Playful City USA Distinction

anville now holds the distinction of being one of only two communities in the Commonwealth to have earned the Playful City USA designation. This year’s recognition marks the seventh consecutive time Danville has been honored. The KaBOOM! Playful City USA program, sponsored by the Humana Foundation, recently honored Danville along with 211 other cities, towns and communities across America that also are taking bold steps to ensure that all children, especially the 16 million American kids living in poverty, have easy access to balanced and active play in their communities. Hopewell is the only other community in the state nominated.

play – and are making play part of the solution that can move the needle on countless urban challenges.”

at Humana Foundation, we are thrilled to recognize all of these communities that are working to ensure all kids, particularly the 16 million that live in poverty, get the play they need to thrive,” says KaBOOM! CEO and Founder Darell Hammond.

KaBOOM! is the national non-profit dedicated to the bold goal of ensuring that all children, particularly the 16 million American children living in poverty, get the active play they need to become healthy and successful adults. KaBOOM! has been a powerful champion for play since its founding in 1996, working with partners to build, improve, and open more than 15,000 playgrounds, engage more than 1,000,000 volunteers and serve more than 6,600,00 children nationwide.

Humana President and CEO Bruce Broussard added, “We’re excited about our journey with KaBOOM! and we appreciate the shared values that Humana, the Humana Foundation, and the KaBOOM! organization can rally around. Making it easy for families to play, be healthy and thrive together is a part of Humana’s dream, and it’s a commitment that all of us at Humana enjoy sharing with KaBOOM!.”

“With the tremendous support of our friends

“This is a big deal to us,” said Bill Sgrinia, director of Parks and Recreation. “To be given this distinction proves that Danville is serious about play. We want Danville to be happy and healthy, and we believe play is the vehicle that drives our citizens toward that goal.” According to a release from KaBOOM! The communities to receive the nod are “leaders in playability – the extent to which a city makes it easy for kids to get balanced and active

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The Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics reports that “play is essential to the social, emotional, cognitive and physical well-being of children.” Danville was recognized for its community-wide dedication to provide play opportunities for the community. For more information, contact Bill Sgrinia, director of Parks and Recreation at sgrinwo@ ci.danville.va.us or 799-5200.

NEWS FROM DANVILLE

NEWS FROM THE CITY OF WILLIAMSBURG

How Do You Play?

The National Softball Association (NSA) has given

That’s the question Danville Parks and Recreation is asking the community and in return getting valuable engagement on Social Media – and it all began with pie. “We were toying around with setting up an Instagram account,” said Communications Specialist Russell Carter. “It just happened to be National Pie Day so our director posted a picture of a pretty good looking pecan pie. Within seconds, we had 10 likes and a comment.” The epiphany soon followed. “We realized, people just like to have fun,” Carter added. “Whether they are out in the park, on our trail system or participating in a program, the residents of our town like to recreate. Why not engage the community by showing our staff having fun.” Over the next few weeks, staff members using the PlayDanvilleVA Instagram account began posting pictures of ball games, snowy fields, trips, bike races and a lot of dogs and hashtagging everything #playdanvilleva. The pictures were shared on Facebook and Twitter and the community liked them all. “All of a sudden, we became less civic government and more ‘the crazy neighbors who ski to work when it snows’,” Carter said. The lesson of the power of image was apparent. “It’s all about living your brand,” Department Director Bill Sgrinia said. “Obviously, not every person in the city is going to come to every single program we have. In fact, we have some people that come to one or two programs a year.

Kiwanis Park the 2013 Outstanding Park Award

SA recognizes select parks throughout the U.S. each year for their support of the NSA program. Criteria for selection include quality of facilities and outstanding support from the Parks and Recreation Department. In presenting the award to Parks & Recreation Director Lori Rierson and City Council at the March meeting, NSA Youth Fastpitch State Director Frank Rachubka noted that Kiwanis Park has become one of the premier facilities not only within Virginia, but also in the mid-Atlantic region.

“We hope that by showing ourselves having fun and enjoying recreational activities every day, that person who only does a program or two with us will stay engaged all year long and more importantly, will realize that recreation can lead to a happier and healthier lifestyle.” Since the first post 14 weeks ago, 392 people have followed PlayDanvilleVA on Instagram. Parks and Recreation has recently begun to support the hasthag project by designing banners, window stickers and brochure ads asking people to show how they play on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. The department mascot, Recreation Rex, has even gotten into the act, donning a new t-shirt with the slogan “Rex Says #playdanvilleva”. “Our vision is to see Danville Happy and Healthy,” said Sgrinia. “What better way to gauge how close we are to that goal than seeing the members of our community interacting with us on a more personal level.”

Photo L-R: Lori Rierson, Council Member Scott Foster, Vice Mayor Paul Freiling, Council Member Judy Knudson, Frank Rachubka, and Council Member Doug Pons. SUMMER 2014 n Virginia Recreation & Park Society

NEWS FROM FAIRFAX COUNTY

Park Supervisor Trains Puppies to Assist Disabled Adults

Written by Matthew Kaiser, Deputy Public Information Officer, Fairfax County Park Authority

isitors at Clemyjontri Park may have noticed an adorable puppy with oversized paws accompanying park supervisor Rebecca Boone as she makes her rounds. Although it may appear Boone brings her pet to work each day, she is actually training the puppy to become an assistance dog that will help ndividuals with disabilities. According to Boone, the park is like a second home for Drew, a yellow Labrador-golden retriever mix from the nonprofit organization Canine Companions for Independence (CCI). The bustling park is the perfect setting to condition the puppy to behave around crowds, a skill he will need to be a successful service dog. Those who know Boone know that Drew isn’t the first assistance dog she has trained. Boone first learned about CCI while at college in Knoxville, Tenn. One night, on a trip to the library to study, some dogs caught her attention. “When I walked in, there were all these wonderful dogs in vests. I found out about the organization and knew that I wanted to be a puppy raiser too,” Boone recalled. It took her a few years to purchase a home that allowed dogs, but once she was moved in she immediately con-

tacted CCI about volunteering. In November 2011, Boone traveled to CCI’s regional office in Medford, Long Island in New York to pick up her first puppy, Nagy, a two-month-old yellow Labrador-golden retriever mix. CCI has found that this mix of breeds exhibits the best temperament for serving as assistance dogs. Boone received some basic training during a six-hour orientation and then headed home to begin the 16-month training period to which she had committed. Puppy raisers, as CCI volunteers are called, are required to attend classes twice a month and are assigned a mentor. “The classes are supposed to be for the dogs, but we end up learning a lot too,” Boone said. She added that most puppy raisers incorporate training into their daily routine. We’ll do a few minutes of training here and there during the day on new commands we’re working on.”

Virginia Recreation & Park Society n SUMMER 2014

Boone quickly learned that raising a puppy is a full time job, but one that she relishes. Frequent toileting and a reduced social life made the first six months difficult. But Boone said, “It’s totally worth it.” Training an assistance dog is also expensive. According to Boone, it costs about $1,500 a year to raise a dog for CCI. That includes food, veterinary expenses, toys, and equipment. Though, as Boone points out, “All these expenses are one hundred percent taxdeductible.” Once Nagy reached six months, they were able to go out in public on short walks and on trips with minimal distractions. When Nagy was ready, Boone got permission from the Park Authority’s risk manager to bring him to work with her. “One of the plus sides of having a dog at work is that I use my 15-minute breaks taking the dog out, which is a great stress-reliever,” Boone said with a smile. Raising a puppy in an office setting can be an adventure. During meetings at headquarters, Boone’s puppy can often be heard chomping on his bone. Sometimes he’s a little too eager to say hello when they pass coworkers in the hallway. “I hope they realize that their patience and tolerance is helping to develop an immature puppy into a mature dog that will be instrumental in changing someone’s life,” Boone said with a grin. Nagy was a beloved member of the family during his training period with Boone.

When the time came for Nagy to move on to advanced training, Boone felt a mix of a sadness and pride. Nagy’s advanced training took place at the CCI regional office where professionals teach the dogs specific tasks that will help individuals they ultimately assist. Dogs are continually evaluated for the next six to nine months. About 60 percent of the dogs are released at this time for reasons ranging from anxiety to lack of enthusiasm and the inability to perform commands. CCI dogs don’t flunk out of advanced training; they change careers. “Change of career” dogs are first offered back to volunteers who have the first right of refusal if their puppy is released from the program. If the volunteer chooses not to accept the released dog, it isn’t long before the dog finds a new home. According to Boone, there is a three to five year waitlist for people ready to pay $500 to adopt a dog released from CCI. Nagy didn’t have any trouble with advanced training. He breezed through and gradu-

ated during a ceremony held in January at CCI’s national headquarters in Santa Rosa, Calif. Boone was in attendance, of course. “It was bittersweet seeing Nagy graduate. I was feeling so many emotions. On one hand, it was the culmination of everything he and I had worked to achieve. On the other hand, I was no longer “his person,” and I didn’t know if I would see or hear about him again,” she said. Prior to the graduation ceremony, each puppy raiser was given an hour alone with the dog he or he had raised. When Nagy saw Boone, he immediately ran toward her and jumped up on her, almost knocking her down. “I didn’t think I would be that emotional at that moment, but I couldn’t stop the tears,” Boone said. CCI’s trainers determine where each dog will ultimately live. Nagy ended up in Florida working as a hearing dog. He also helps his person by picking up items off the floor and providing support when he walks. CCI is good about providing up-

dates to past puppy raisers. Boone’s tone was one of a proud mother when she shared that Nagy is doing well, providing needed help, and is getting along with the family’s other dog. Asked if she would ever see Nagy again, Boone said, “I have his person’s contact information and have been told that I’m welcome to come down to Florida to visit.” Now that Nagy is an adult and having success as an assistance dog, Boone is focused on Drew’s training. But she still remembers Nagy’s wild puppy days and the minor property damage one would expect from having a rambunctious puppy in the house. “He chewed up a cell phone and gnawed on some baseboards. He also ate a rock, which miraculously passed by the morning of the scheduled surgery to remove it,” Boone recalled. So far, Drew hasn’t destroyed anything but toys. Are you interested in becoming a puppy raiser? Learn more about Canine Companions for Independence at www.cci.org.

SUMMER 2014 n Virginia Recreation & Park Society

NEWS FROM FAIRFAX COUNTY PARK AUTHORITY

What do you think about this group of people? They compost every day. They recycle. They share food with a local shelter. They have a permeable paver patio with native plants. They garden on raised beds. They maintain bat, pollinator, decomposition and lifecycle gardens. They maintain an adopted trail. They remove invasive plants and replace them with natives. They’re starting a seedling nursery.

And they go to grade school.

hese are the students of Belvedere Elementary School in Falls Church, Va. They’re in their fourth year of a partnership with the Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) in which they’ve adopted Belvedere Park next to their school as an outdoor classroom, and the students work several times a year with the Park Authority’s Invasive Management Area program. The Park Authority, the

Friends of Huntley Meadows Park, and Hidden Oaks Nature Center are some of about two dozen local groups in partnership with the school in an initiative called Going Green. With support from her students, Belvedere Environmental Educator Stacey Evers writes greenBELVEDERE, a blog about their efforts. “When we first adopted the park over

Virginia Recreation & Park Society n SUMMER 2014

three years ago, Park Manager Richard Maple spent time with me to help designate a trail from the school field into the heart of the open space,” Evers said. “School volunteers then built that trail, which is still used today.” Evers added that, prior to the adoption, the school didn’t take advantage of the nearby park, and many staffers didn’t realize there was FCPA property next door.

“Richard and I recently met to assess the park this spring,” said Evers. “Erin (Stockschlaeder) and Belvedere parent/IMA site leader Terri Lamb were also at that meeting. We are hoping to begin efforts in the next year to reforest it.” Erin Stockschlaeder is the Invasive Management Area coordinator for the Park Authority, and she works closely with Evers and the students. “Every year students from Belvedere Elementary walk the short distance to Belvedere Park to remove invasive plants and plant native species,” she said. “Most recently I was there on Earth Day when several classes came out (despite the rain) and planted native trees, grasses and flowers. The kids were so small, and so curious! One little girl had to run to catch up to her class that was heading back into the school because she wanted me to tell her the name of all of the plants that her classmates had just planted. She would repeat the name several times and promise to come back to check on them.” The partnership helps the students learn about nature and the responsibilities of stewardship while the park sees improvements that will still be benefitting the land and county residents when these youngsters are adults. “Last year students from Belvedere Elementary also collected acorns from the park which they will grow in a protected location on school property. Once the oaks grow large

“...One little girl had to run to catch up to her class that was heading back into the school because she wanted me to tell her the name of all of the plants that her classmates had just planted...”

enough they will be returned to the park,” said Stockschlaeder. “Without the partnership with Belvedere Elementary, Belvedere Park would not be on its way to restoration like it is today! In fact, the original Invasive Management Area (IMA) site is now pretty much free of invasive plants, and many of the species planted by the students are flourishing.” Evers said that earlier this spring the Belvedere students planted a dozen new native trees on their school grounds. “UFMD (the Urban Forest Management Division of the county’s Department of Public Works and Environmental Services) donated the trees and provided scheduling, support and supervision on planting day. They also worked closely with me and Dale Taylor, director of FCPS grounds, to ensure that the trees were placed where they wouldn’t interfere with school use.” Belvedere was the first school to join in such a partnership with UFMD. Evers says UFMD wants to work with schools in order to help the county achieve its 30-year tree canopy goal. It’s all part of a park partnership and a school curriculum teaching kids to take care of the future. Stacy Evers can be reached at 703346-8530 or at severs@fcps.edu. Author Dave Ochs is the Manager of Stewardship Communications for the Resource Management Division of the Fairfax County Park Authority.

SUMMER 2014 n Virginia Recreation & Park Society

NEWS FROM VRPS ANNUAL CONFERENCE

A Diamond Celebration December 6-9, 2014 Omni Homestead, Hot Springs, VA

Navigate for Success, Celebrating our Past, Charting our Future The VRPS Annual Conference is the top networking event in our field, full of valuable information that can be taken home and put to immediate use in your own community. This is your chance to gather together to share ideas, experiences and opportunities that shape the successes of our common industry and individual events. In the hallways, sessions, and events you will meet your peers with their multitude of experiences, challenges, points of view, approaches, leadership styles, and networking connections. Their commonality is their desire and willingness to share all of the above with each other. For those who use it, it is also their greatest tool and resource.

Why Attend this Year? This is the most practical, affordable and valuable conference for parks and recreation professionals in Virginia. Come get the most advanced, current, sophisticated, and relevant how-to strategies and techniques for improving your organization. v More than 60 of the most current, replicable how-to sessions.

v Celebration of our 60th annual conference!

v Excellent in-depth pre-conference institute sessions v Outstanding keynote presentation that will speak to you v New presenters with relevant sessions for leaders at every stage of their career v Premier conference location v The best practitioners from successful in and out of state parks and recreation agencies and private industry providers v Resource groups, luncheons, receptions, socials â&#x20AC;&#x201C; more ways to network with your colleagues than any other conference v 600 participants from local and state government agencies, private sector, and nonprofit entities. Come and network, steal their ideas and get their brochures

Virginia Recreation & Park Society n SUMMER 2014

The Virginia Recreation and Park Society unites all professionals, students, and interested lay persons engaged in the field of recreation, parks and other leisure services in Virginia, into one body. Starting in 1955 in Richmond through 2013 in Williamsburg, the Society and its volunteers have annually produced an exceptional educational and networking event for its members, to share our passion and commitment with parks and recreation professionals throughout the state. Hosted by the VRPS Board of Directors and our President, Art Thatcher, 2014 will be no exception as we bring to bear our collective knowledge and experience for the 60th annual VRPS Conference.

Preconference Institute Saturday, December 6th

Are you Being Followed... Discovering your Leadership Style Are you the leader you think you are? Have you built yourself to be a leader that is followed? This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s NEW pre-conference ed-

ucational sessions will allow you to discover what motivates and inspires you to LEAD. As Parks and Recreation professionals we are all leaders in different capacities and it’s one of, if not the most important aspects of our jobs, so you don’t want to miss this opportunity to find out how you can increase your effectiveness and understand yourself better as a leader. All sessions are presented by top professionals in the field (and worth 0.2 CEU’s), including Lori Hoffner, Bonnie >>> and Michelle >>>.

Session Topics Include: v Influential Leadership v Understanding You Better to Better Understand Them v Leading with Emotional Intelligence v Remember Who You Are; Why You Do What You Do (Separate registration fee applies to the Institute Choose the best time or come for both: 1-3:30 and/or 4-6:30 p.m.)

is great if you plan to bring your significant other, beloved family or just come on your own! Watch the website for updates on friends and family packages, event tickets and activities.

Accommodations and Reservations As a guest of the Omni Homestead checking out on Tuesday, you are guaranteed a 1 p.m. checkout to avoid conflicts with morning sessions. In the true spirit of Southern hospitality, this Virginia mountain setting and elegant lodgings are enhanced by a wealth of guest services and amenities. You’ll want to make time to pamper yourself at this resort-like facility that offers restaurants and lounges along with an awesome spring-fed indoor pool, health club, two renowned golf courses and fabulous spa. The daily resort fee includes Internet access in guestrooms and resort

Conference Destination VRPS returns for only the second time in our history to the Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia. While known for many things, perhaps above all the Homestead is known for its Southern hospitality and elegant charm. The historic Virginia accommodations have welcomed guests, including 22 US Presidents, as early as the 18th century. Periodic renovations provide accommodations with modern amenities while still featuring classic Southern furnishings and feel. The location

two-acre Allegheny Springs outdoor water attraction including lazy river, water slides, heated family pool, water play zone and whirlpool. Visit the conference website for detail about the expectations for attire and other information on the Homestead. Rates are $115 single and double, excluding taxes, fees and includes a daily $10 resort fee. A portion of the room rate is used to offset convention expenses. Reservations must be made by November 14, 2014 but we expect the room block will sell out in advance of this date. Even if you aren’t sure about your plans, we suggest you make a room reservation well ahead. To reserve your room, call the Omni Homestead at 1-800838-1766, select #1 for Group Reservations and identify yourself with the Virginia Recreation and Park Society or go to http://www. thehomestead.com/VARecreationandParkSociety12.

Who Will Benefit?

public areas, morning coffee in the Lobby Bar, USA Today each weekday, afternoon tea, in room Keurig coffee makers, nightly movies, continuous property shuttles to all resort recreational activities, access to fitness center, including yoga and spinning classes, and tennis courts, valet parking and gratuities for housekeeping staff. Plus, the

Leaders will receive the latest information on financial, policy and planning issues to help make informed decisions and plan future direction. Managers and coordinators will get the most advanced and current tips and techniques in programming, trends, marketing and enhanced supervisory skills. The content is geared to those delivering parks and recreation programs and services in public or private, for profit or not for profit, settings.

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NEWS FROM VRPS ANNUAL CONFERENCE What to tell your boss? Your boss should come too. Visit the conference website for information on how to build your own Return on Investment statement. The VRPS Annual Conference provides sophisticated, advanced strategies for top decision makers. Your boss will gain insight and strategies not available anywhere else in finance, longterm planning and other management areas. Your organization has to move quickly to redesign itself for the 21st century. There’s new competition, changing consumer demands, and shifting markets. To be fiscally sound, you have to redesign your organization and staffing to remain successful and competitive.

What to do now v Make your plans to attend. v eek budget approval from those who can say “Yes!” v Encourage your colleagues to attend. v Consider sending a team from your staff to get the most benefit from the myriad of sessions offered. v Take advantage of our early registration discount. v Register online by Aug. 1, 2014, and save $40 on the full delegate package. v If your fiscal year ends June 30, act now and you can charge it to either fiscal year. v Surprise your significant other. v This is the conference venue where your spouse will insist on coming too. Plans are in the works for spouse and guest packages, so think ideal getaway for the whole family, and check out all the recreational activities available to keep them entertained!

Register! This is the most valuable Virginia event of the year in parks and recreation. To take advantage of the early registration discount, go to www.vrps.com, login and access the online registration module by clicking on Browse Upcoming Events and navigating to the annual conference. Or print the registration form from the conference web page and mail to 6372 Mechanicsville Turnpike #109, Mechanicsville, VA 23111; fax it to 804.730.9455 or call 804.730.9447 Questions? Call us at 804.730.9447 or send an email to vrps@vrps.com. The final conference brochure will be out in late summer. Details and updates are available at www.vrps.com, click on Education, Annual Conference, 2014 or at http:// www.vrps.com/EducationEvents/AnnualC onference/2014AnnualConference.aspx Conference registration will get you all of these benefits and much more: v All Education and mini-sessions v Two mornings at the Homestead’s famous Breakfast Buffet v The Annual Awards Banquet v Social and networking opportunities v Access to the Exhibit Hall and 50+ industry vendors v Conference Program Book v Session Handouts

Keynote Presentation Be there to welcome Kathy Spangler as our Sunday evening opening speaker. Incorporating what she’s learned from agency leaders around the state, she will set the tone as we look forward to our profession’s future. From 1987 to 2007, Kathy worked at the National Recreation and Park Association

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leaving a lasting legacy as founding director for the National Partnerships. Currently, Kathy serves as Vice President, US Programs for Save The Children. Save the Children USP focuses on children living in rural poverty delivering evidence based services to children in the areas of early childhood development, literacy, physical activity/nutrition and disaster preparedness/response. Kathy directs the US program operations inclusive of finance, HR, communications, program development/evaluation, resource development, public policy and program implementation. Kathy served three years at America’s Promise Alliance holding many positions including Chief Operating Officer, Chief Development Officer and Executive Vice President for Partnerships and Programs. Her tenure spanned 2007 - 2010. Kathy also serves as President of the Center for Public Recreation and Parks, founded in 2009. The mission of The Center is to fulfill the legacy of citizen and professional pioneers dedicated to advancing the public recreation and parks movement. Kathy has a long list of publications and honors and currently serves as a Board Member of the Sajai Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to reducing rates of childhood obesity by increasing energy balance.

Watch for more updates on Kathy’s presentation and how you will take away valuable insights about our profession and how our past led to the future before us.

Updates Stay in touch with the latest on speakers, sessions, travel and much more in the weekly e-Updates or at http://www.vrps. com/EducationEvents/AnnualConference /2014AnnualConference.aspx

NEWS FROM NORFOLK RECREATION, PARKS & OPEN SPACE (RPOS)

MEAC Brings Exciting Tourney to Norfolk, and Skills for Youth Too!

he Scope Arena in Norfolk was packed with excitement as the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) tournament rolled into town. While players battled on the court, they also took time to give back to their host city.

they worked with coaches to polish their fundamentals and learn first-hand what it will take to land a spot on a college team. Coaches signed autographs and hosted a Q&A session where they stressed the importance of education, character, and developing a good work ethic.

On March 8th, coaches from various MEAC schools hosted a basketball clinic for more than 75 youth from the Norfolk Recreation, Parks & Open Space (RPOS) basketball program and recreation centers. On the campus of Norfolk State University (NSU), players traveled through skills stations where

Several MEAC teams including Florida A & M, Savannah State, North Carolina A & T, and Bethune Cookman also took advantage of Norfolk’s recreation centers to practice for their big games. While at the centers, they took the time to play games,

such as “around the world”, and gave them a few basketball pointers. Melanie Foreman, Recreation Supervisor with the Lambert’s Point Community Center, hosted Florida A&M University and stated, “This was a great experience for my youth to have people that they look up to provide positive feedback and encourage them to be prosperous and educated young men and women.” On March 12th, staff from the United States Marine Corp’s Recruiting Command Office of Diversity Engagement joined the MEAC action as they accompanied 40 students from the Huntersville Community Center to the tournament games. For many students, this was their first experience at the Scope Arena. Students and Marines enjoyed the game and then broke into groups where they discussed problem solving, career choices, and decision making. The trip provided the students with the opportunity to be mentored by a positive role model on life lessons and success. While the MEAC tournament only lasted a few days, the players and fans were left with lasting impressions of Norfolk’s youth. With the skills acquired you may see MEAC stars from Norfolk take the court in the near-future.

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NEWS FROM WASHINGTON COUNTY RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Ripple Effect: The power of community and action in Washington County by Linda Alberts, Nationals Alliance for Youth Sports

Ready, Set, Run! has quickly nestled itself into the center of the Washington County (Va.) community. Introduced almost three years ago by the Washington County Recreation Department, Ready, Set, Run! is a program supported by the enthusiasm of the community. In return, it gives community members a chance to make a difference for others, lead an active lifestyle and gather through the common interest of running. “I truly wish to impact the lives of the children and families in Washington County,” said Katie Hall, recreation programs specialist. Ready, Set, Run! has allowed the recreation department to present a new program that intrigues and appeals to children. It is a unique youth running program offered by the National Alliance for Youth Sports that

prepares children ages 8-13 to complete a 5k in 12 weeks. “We have seen a tremendous drop in participation numbers in youth sports over the past several years,” Hall said. She believes this is a result of children becoming sedentary and spending more time on electronic devices, in addition to a large segment of children not being interested or comfortable with playing team sports like baseball, basketball, football and soccer.

host the running program. “Ready, Set, Run! brings the value of relationships and community to our department,” Hall said. “I am able to get out into the schools and get to know the kids and their families and build lasting relationships with them.” Many of the children are repeat participants, and sometimes parents will even drive several miles out of the way so that their child can take part in Ready, Set, Run! if their school is not hosting the program at that time.

“Children need to be active!” she said. “Ready, Set, Run! is a great opportunity to reach the children that traditional sports leave out.”

“The children absolutely love Ready, Set, Run! and their parents are just as in love with the program and what it does for their children,” Hall said.

Hall works with the seven elementary schools in Washington County to offer Ready, Set, Run! Each spring and fall one of the schools

She reports that one child with asthma reduced her dependency on her inhaler over the course of the running program. “When

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we began the program, she could not go a whole session without using her inhaler,” Hall said. “At the end she ran the 5k in 47:30 and didn’t use her inhaler.” Hall added that another child lost 10 pounds while participating in Ready, Set, Run! Success stories like these have had a ripple effect for families throughout the community. “Parents are starting to run and implement a healthier lifestyle because of their child’s participation in Ready, Set, Run!, middle schools want to start offering the program and children are continuing to run – even after the program has ended!” Hall said. While the health improvements members of the community have experienced from Ready, Set, Run! are inspiring, another factor that prompted Hall to implement the program was the curriculum that accompanies the running plan. While children build endurance and stamina through play-based activities, they also go through character development

curriculum that equips them with a goalsetting mentality that will stay with them throughout life. Topics covered include enhancing confidence and self-esteem, respecting authority, dealing with peer pressure and fueling their bodies with proper nutrition. “I wanted to offer a program with a curriculum where I could promote understanding, respect, acceptance of themselves and each other, and empower them to reach their full potential,” Hall said. “Ready, Set, Run! offers a great curriculum with great starting points for discussion. I love getting kids thinking, talking and learning from the lessons each week.” The recreation department works with Dr. Rebecca Buchanan and the Health and Physical Education Department at Emory and Henry College to help facilitate the Ready, Set, Run! program. “Dr. Buchanan provides students from her classes to volunteer with Ready, Set, Run! as a service learning component,” Hall said. “The students help with all aspects of the program and receive a grade for their service. This

not only enhances their college learning experience, but enhances our program as well.” Hall says that many of the students continue to volunteer, and some have gone on to become great employees of the recreation department. “The sense of accomplishment that the children display after running their first 5k just radiates from them,” Hall said. “We’ve had parents at the finish line with tears in their eyes as they watch their child cross. As much as it is my goal to impact kids’ lives, they end up touching mine even more.” Founded in 1981, the National Alliance for Youth Sports is America’s leading advocate for positive, safe sports and activities for children. The non-profit 501(c)(3) organization is headquartered in West Palm Beach, Fla. and works with more than 3,000 community-based youth sport programs across the country to provide programs and services for everyone involved in youth sports experiences, including professional administrators, volunteer administrators, volunteer coaches, officials, parents and young athletes. Learn more at www.nays.org.

Visit www.vrps.com or call the VRPS Office at 804-730-9447 or email vrps@vrps.com for volunteer opportunities. SUMMER 2014 n Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Virginia Recreation & Park Society 6372 Mechanicsville Turnpike Suite 109 Mechanicsville, VA 23111

Prsrtd Std U.S. POSTAGE PAID Richmond, VA Permit #320

PARK & RECREATION DAYS TICKETS! Valid June 27 – August 3, 2014

ONLY

Ages 3 & above Children ages 2 & under admitted FREE.

GOOD ANY DAY TICKETS!

ONLY

Ages 3 & above Children ages 2 & under admitted FREE.

For Additional Information Contact: The Virginia Recreation and Park Society at 804-730-9447 For up-to-date Park information go to: www.kingsdominion.com Park Opens April 5, 2014. WaterWorks Opens May 24, 2014 © 2014 Dale Earnhardt, Inc. Intimidator™ 305 takes its name from Dale Earnhardt, “the Intimidator” © 2014 Cedar Fair, L.P. © KD14-339

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