Virginia Parks & Recreation OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE VIRGINIA RECREATION & PARK SOCIETY
VRPS ANNUAL CONFERENCE ROANOKE, VIRGINIA NOVEMBER 5-8, 2016
SUMMER 2016
Picture Yourself in Roanoke Registration Open Now at www.VRPS.com
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Look for updates throughout the summer on our expanding program lineup, including the following four Saturday pre-conference sessions: • National D-Day Memorial Tour • Behind the Scenes Rec Facility Tour • New Technologies in Park Operations • Inspiring Leadership Vendor sponsorships and exhibit hall booths still available!
REASONS TO VISIT ROANOKE 1) Outdoor Fun
The region’s best outdoor attractions are right in our backyard. There’s nowhere else in Virginia where you can hike the Appalachian Trail, drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, bike the trails at Carvin’s Cove, and whitewater kayak through Explore Park... All in ONE DAY!
2) Easy Drive Enjoy a beautiful drive to get here without
taking back roads. Hotel Roanoke sits right on Interstate 581. We’re about three hours from both Richmond and Northern VA.
3) Higher Education
There are 21 institutions of higher learning within a 60-minute radius of the Roanoke Valley. What does that mean for you? We’re working on a complete slate of education courses for the 2016 conference that will take advantage of our area’s vast network of recreation professionals and collegiate instructors.
4) Downtown Nightlife New in 2016, party in downtown Roanoke’s newly rennovated market square. The conference venue is within walking distance of a wide seleciton of local restaurants, breweries, night clubs, and even unique performing arts venues. You’re so close you won’t even need to hail a cab!
5) Kickin’ Keynote
Keynote Speaker: Neelay Bhatt, Pros Consulting Neelay’s career has taken him through three continents and includes experiences with the Super Bowl, Disney and the Summer Olympics and Paralympics Games, besides several years of consulting for master / strategic planning, marketing and branding, facility management and business planning. As a speaker and trainer, nationally and internationally, he has been fortunate to learn from and teach executive, professionals and students from China, India and all over the United States. He was recently feature in a TED Talk program in Indianapolis, IN. Other speaking venues include Beijing Sport University, University of Mumbai, NRPA, CPRS, IPRA, Bay Area Revenue Management School (BARMS), and the Brand-Aid Marketing and Branding Conference, etc. . Over the last decade, as the Vice-President at PROS Consulting, he has helped over 100 agencies for Master Plans, Strategic Plans, Business and Marketing Plans and Training and Development in places ranging from Anchorage, AK to Allentown, PA and from Canton, Michigan to Carrollton, TX From managing the daily online publication of the Super Bowl (SB XLVI) to leading the City selection process of the inaugural T-20 cricket league in the United States, his approach focuses on innovating and partnering to maximize revenue generation and create a guest experience of the highest quality.
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Virginia Parks & Recreation Official Publication of the Virginia Recreation & Park Society
Volume 70 SUMMER 2016
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
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James C. Stutts, CAE, CPRP Member Services Coordinator Nancy Turnage Administrative Assistant Lori Haislip Editor Amy-Jo Hendrix, CPRP 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.
SUMMER 2016•FEATURES & DEPARTMENTS 4
Message from the President
2016... The Year for All to Get Involved
5
2016 VRPS Boards, Key Leaders and Staff
6
VRPS Summer 2016 Calendar of Events
8
News from LTI
My LTI Experience
9
News from Fairfax County
Member Profile Sandy Kellogg
11 News from Norfolk Recreation, Parks and Open Spaces
May is Bike Month in Norfolk!
12 News from Fairfax County Park Authority
Why We Do It
14 News from Herndon 2016 Herndon Festival Set for June 2 - 5
15 News from Department of Conservation and Recreation
Virginia Treasures on the Rise
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.
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 2016 n Virginia Recreation & Park Society
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A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
2016…
The year for all to get involved
M
y how the time is flying by… I am completing my 5th month of my term and how exciting
it has been. I had the pleasure of attending the 2016 Leadership Training Institute in beautiful Wintergreen. Sixty two were in attendance and it was enjoyed by all. I also had the opportunity to attend the CPRP preparatory training that was held at Old Dominion University. The profession has changed and I must admit that I did struggle a little as I was going through the practice test. However, I am excited and looking forward to becoming a CPRP. I encourage all professionals to consider obtaining the CPRP certification…the benefits are endless. One of my promises to each member was to make sure you would stay informed and
Summer Season is approaching and there are so many opportunities for you to take advantage of: Senior Games, May 18-21, 2016 in Newport News Taking Camps Safely to the Pool Training, June 8, 2016 in Chantilly VA Summer Survival, June 11, 2016 at Old Dominion University and the 2016 ARG Virtual Lifeguard Games.
Margaret Thorne
President, Virginia Recreation & Park Society
engaged with all of the exciting opportunities that VRPS has to offer. The Board of Directors is committed and dedicated to serving the membership and the value of being a member. We have instituted a segment in the President’s Newsletter to “ASK THE BOARD”…we want to hear from you. Please take advantage of this opportunity to let us hear from you. I invite you to take advantage of every opportunity that VRPS has to offer, attend a training/workshop/conference or maybe you want to get involved in your service areas or perhaps you may be interested in becoming a board member…JUST GET INVOLVED !!! As always I continue to seek your support in helping me in growing the legacy of VRPS Thank you for all you do !!! Margaret Thorne
Make 2016 Your Year for VRPS! Visit www.vrps.com or call the VRPS Office at 804-730-9447 or email vrps@vrps.com for volunteer opportunities. 4
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VRPS Staff
Enterprise Group Chairs
Resource Service Area Group Chairs Chairs
Board of Directors
Executive Board
2016 VRPS BOARDS KEY LEADERS & STAFF President Margaret Thorne Vice President LaTanya Turner Treasurer Kirk Kincannon CPRP Lay Member Rita Miller Executive Director Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE President Margaret Thorne Board Member Michael Kalvort, CPRE Board Member Katey Legg, CPRP Board Member Aaron Reidmiller, CPRP Board Member Blythe Russian Board Member Bill Sgrinia, CPRP Board Member Doug Blount Board Member Kirk Kincannon CPRP Board Member LaTanya Turner Lay Member Rita Miller Executive Director Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Central Justin Bullock Eastern James Mickle Northern Todd Brown Southwestern Western Claire Richardson, CPRP Aquatics Sandy Kellogg Seniors June Snead Therapeutic Recreation
City of Portsmouth Isle of Wight Parks & Rec. Fairfax County Park Authority VA Dept. of Health Virginia Rec. & Park Society City of Portsmouth Virginia Beach Parks & Rec. Gloucester Parks, Rec. & Tourism Hopewell Rec. & Parks Northern Virginia Reg. Park Authority Danville Parks, Rec. & Tourism Roanoke Co. Parks, Rec. & Tourism Fairfax County Parks Authority Isle of Wight Parks & Rec. VA Department of Health Virginia Rec. & Park Society Fredericksburg Parks, Rec. & Pub. Facilities City of Norfolk Rec. Parks & Open Space Fairfax County Park Authority
757-393-5143x4264 757-357-5951 703-324-8584 804-864-7897 804-730-9447 757-393-5143x4264 757-385-1122 804-693-1270 804-541-2353 703-359-4624 x221 434-799-5200 540-387-6061 703-324-8584 757-357-5951 804-864-7897 804-730-9447 540-372-1086 757-441-1440 703-324-8676
thornem@portsmouthva.gov lturner@isleofwightus.net kirk.kincannon@fairfaxcounty.gov rita.miller@vdh.virginia.gov jim@vrps.com thornem@portsmouthva.gov mkalvort@vbgov.com klegg@gloucesterva.info areidmiller@hopewellva.gov brussian@nvrpa.org sgrinia@ci.danville.va.us dblount@roanokecountyva.gov kirk.kincannon@fairfaxcounty.gov lturner@isleofwightus.net rita.miller@vdh.virginia.gov jim@vrps.com jlbullock@fredericksburgva.gov james.mickle@norfolk.gov todd.brown@fairfaxcounty.gov
Staunton Parks & Rec. Fairfax County Park Authority Hanover Co. Parks & Rec.
540-332-9168 703-324-9205 804-365-7152
richardsonca@ci.staunton.va.us sandra.kellogg@fairfaxcounty.gov jvsnead@hanovercounty.gov
Annual Conference
Doug Blount Steve Buschor
Roanoke Co. Parks Rec. & Tourism Roanoke Parks & Rec.
540-387-6061 540-853-2494
dblount@roanokecountyva.gov steve.buschor@roanokeva.gov
Foundation Awards & Citations LTI 2016 Management Conf. ‘17 Professional Education Virginia Senior Games Legislative
Greg Sager Hanover County Parks & Rec. Sandy Kellogg Fairfax County Park Authority Jason Bookheimer Danville Parks & Rec. Kristen Hamill, CPRP Newport News Parks Rec. & Tourism Matt Spruill, CPRP Colonial Heights Rec. & Parks Lakita Watson, CPRP Suffolk Parks & Rec. Shannon Moore, CPRP Virginia Beach Parks & Rec. Jeff Sykes Newport News Parks, Rec. & Tourism Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Virginia Rec. & Park Society Art Thatcher, CPRP, AFO, MPA GreenPlay LLC
804-365-4690 703-324-9205 434-799-5200 757-926-1419 804-520-9392 757-514-7251 757-385-0420 757-591-4892 804-730-9447 757-592-3103
rgsager@hanovercounty.gov sandra.kellogg@fairfaxcounty.gov bookhjl@danvilleva.gov khamill@nngov.com spruillm@colonialheightsva.gov lwatson@suffolkva.us smoore@vbgov.com jsykes@nngov.com jim@vrps.com artt@greenplayllc.com
804-730-9447 804-730-9447 804-730-9447
jim@vrps.com lori@vrps.com nancy@vrps.com
CEO Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Administrative Assistant Lori Haislip Member Services Coor. Nancy Turnage
Virginia Rec. & Park Society Virginia Rec. & Park Society Virginia Rec. & Park Society
Board Liaisons Central Aaron Reidmiller, CPRP Eastern LaTanya Turner, CPRP Northern Blythe Russian Southwestern Bill Sgrinia, CPRP; Doug Blount Western Katey Legg, CPRP RESOURCE GROUPS Aquatics Blythe Russian Seniors Michael Kalvort, CPRE
COMMITTEES LTI 2016 Annual Conference 2016 Management Conference 2017 Virginia Senior Games 2016 Awards & Citations
Margaret Thorne; LaTanya Turner, CPRP Margaret Thorne; Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE LaTanya Turner, CPRP Jim Stutts CPRP, CAE Aaron Reidmiller, CPRP
Foundation Legislation Professional Education
Jim Stutts CPRP, CAE Jim Stutts CPRP, CAE; Art Thatcher CPRP, AFO, MPA Michael Kalvort, CPRE
Revised 1/28/16 SUMMER 2016 n Virginia Recreation & Park Society
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AUGUST 2016
JULY 2016
JUNE 2016
VRPS SUMMER/FALL 2016 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
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Wednesday, June 1 10:00am Thursday, June 2 1:00pm Friday, June 3 Tuesday, June 7 10:00am Wednesday, June 8 10:00am 10:00am 12:00pm Saturday, June 11 8:00am Tuesday, June 14 10:00am 12:00pm Thursday, June 16 10:00am Friday, June 17 10:00am Thursday, June 23 1:30pm Monday, June 27 10:00am Wednesday, June 29 10:00am Thursday, June 30
VTC/Roanoke Region Webinar 2016 AC Meeting SSD Ticket Return Deadline Webinar Live - DCR Services - Part 1 Taking Camps SAFELY to the Pool Webinar - DCR Services - Part 2 ESA Board Meeting ESA Summer Survival 2017 MC Meeting ARG Board Meeting 2016 Exec Committee Mtg 2017 Board Ballot Submission Deadline SRG Meeting - Conference Call 2016 Exhibits Mtg LTI Wrap-Up NSA Bimonthly Meeting SA/RG P&L Reports Distributed
Friday, July 1 Monday, July 4 Thursday, July 7 1:00pm Tuesday, July 12 10:00am Friday, July 15
2015 Awards Fee Rises Central Office Closed - Independence Day 2016 AC Meeting 2017 MC Meeting 2017 Board Ballot Finalized Aug Pres Newsletter Submission Deadline
DEADLINE: SA/RG Ballot Info to Central Office
Thursday, July 21 Thursday, July 28
2016 Board Meeting 2016 Exhibits Mtg
10:00am 1:30pm
Monday, August 1 Thursday, August 4 1:00pm Friday, August 5 10:00am Tuesday, August 9 10:00am Friday, August 12 Monday, August 15 Wednesday, August 17 10:00am Thursday, August 25 1:30pm Wednesday, August 31 10:00am
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Board/SA/RG Ballots Open 2016 AC Meeting SRG Meeting - Conference Call 2017 MC Meeting PR Ticket Return Deadline SRG Fall Conference Scholarship Deadline 2016 Awards Committee Mtg 2016 Exhibits Mtg SA/RG Ballots Close NSA Bimonthly Meeting
SEPTEMBER 2016
Thursday, Sept. 1 1:00pm Friday, Sept. 2 Monday, Sept. 5 Wednesday, Sept. 7 Thursday, Sept. 8 Friday, Sept. 9 Tuesday, Sept. 13 10:00am Wednesday, Sept. 14 10:00am Thursday, Sept. 15 Friday, Sept. 16 10:00am Thursday, Sept. 22 1:30pm Friday, Sept. 30
OCTOBER 2016
Friday, Oct. 7 SRG Fall Conference - more info to be announced Monday, Oct. 10 Central Office Closed - Columbus Day Tuesday, Oct. 11 10:00am 2017 MC Meeting Friday, Oct. 14 2016 AC Room Block Deadline Saturday, Oct.15 Nov P&R Mag Submission Deadline Thursday, Oct. 20 10:00am 2016 Exec Committee Mtg Wednesday, Oct. 26 10:00am NSA Bimonthly Meeting Thursday, Oct. 27 1:30pm 2016 Exhibits Mtg Monday, Oct. 31 DEADLINE: SA/RG Proposed Budgets to Central Office
2016 AC Meeting ARG W/S Early Reg & Schol Deadline Central Office Closed - Labor Day CPSI Roanoke CPSI Roanoke CPSI Roanoke 2017 MC Meeting ESA Board Meeting Oct Pres Newsletter Submission Deadline SRG Meeting 2016 Exhibits Mtg SA/RG P&L Reports Distributed
What’s new
in your county or town? Let VRPS spread the word
about all your hard work! Email us at vrps@vrps.com and appear in our next magazine.
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NEWS FROM LTI
My LTI Experience
Andrew Rumsey Chesapeake Parks, Recreation and Tourism
I
walked into my director’s office in November of 2015 and asked if I would be approved to attend the Leadership Training Institute (LTI) if I was awarded a scholarship. Being an LTI graduate himself, he had no trouble approving my wishes and provided a support letter as well. I was excited and apprehensive all at the same time as you don’t typically get placed in a house with people you don’t know for a few days. I immediately thought of my first day in my dorm in college!
be trust falls and cheesy team building exercises, but little did I know it would change my outlook completely on the Parks and Recreation field. The speakers were
knowledgeable and enthusiastic and the networking opportunities were second to none.
... little did I know it would change my outlook completely on the Parks and Recreation field...
I guess I assumed the conference would
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The idea of rooming with complete strangers is great because it provided networking and the building of relationships. Our house mostly talked about work issues and was a valuable experience to hear of real life problems and of how much we had in common. I was thoroughly i m p re s s e d s t a r t t o finish with the training, and would highly recommend attending LTI to anyone in 2018.
NEWS FROM FAIRFAX COUNTY M E M B E R
P R O F I L E
Sandy Kellogg
AQUATICS OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR FOR MOUNT VERNON RECENTER IN ALEXANDRIA Place of work: Mount Vernon RECenter, Fairfax County Park Authority Education: BA in Child, Consumer and Family Studies, Washington State University Professional Memberships: VRPS, NRPA, AOAP, CMAHC, APSP Hometown: Pincher Creek, Alberta Canada Favorite experience on the job: Speaking to groups about what we do, and more importantly why we do it. Favorite recreational activity: Hiking and backpacking Fantasy vacation destination: Whitewater rafting class V anywhere Sandy has been involved with the VRPS Aquatics Resource Group since 2013 and currently serves as the group Chair in addition to serving on the Conference Awards Committee. As an ARG committee member Sandy created the first-ever Virtual Lifeguard Games in 2015 (back again for 2016!!) and led the group to provide 2 brand new programs in 2016 including the well-attended ‘Op Shop’ event in February and a collaborative offering ‘Taking Camps SAFELY to the Pool’ on June 8. Outside the ARG she volunteers as a scout instructor taking groups on overnight camping trips and spends her days as the Aquatics Operations Supervisor for Mount Vernon RECenter in Alexandria.
Invest in Your Career Are you looking for a way to demonstrate your commitment to the field, lead your employees by example, gain greater respect and advance the profession? The Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) program is your answer.
Get CPRP Certified Today! www.nrpa.org/CPRP
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THE COMMONWEALTH GAMES ARE COMING TO LYNCHBURG! This year, Liberty University and the City of Lynchburg have teamed up to host the 2016 Virginia Commonwealth Games, an Olympicstyle event with over 60 sports tournaments for athletes of all ages. In addition to experiencing the first-class facilities at Liberty University, Commonwealth Games athletes will also compete at Lynchburg Parks and Recreation’s newly renovated Peaks View Park, Lynchburg City Stadium, Blackwater Creek Area, and numerous area basketball courts for various tournaments. Stop by to watch, or view the live broadcast on the Liberty University Sports Network. For more information, contact Lynchburg Parks and Recreation Director Jennifer Jones, jenny.jones@lynchburgva.gov, or Recreation Services Manager Maggie Mace, maggie.mace@lynchburgva.gov, via email or by calling (434)455-5858.
COMMONWEALTH GAMES TAILGATE PARTY WITH LYNCHBURG PARKS AND RECREATION Fri, July 22 | 12pm - 5pm | Liberty University Vines Center | FREE Come join Lynchburg Parks and Recreation as we kickoff the 2016 Commonwealth Games at our athlete, friends, and families Tailgate Party! Try out some of the fun with Bubble Soccer Races or pick up information on activities that will be going on in the City of Lynchburg during the 2016 Virginia Commonwealth Games.
ADULT KICKBALL TOURNAMENT July 23 & 24 | Miller Park – Happy Lee Field | Ages 18+ | Team Fee: $150 For information contact: Joanna Nisbet (434) 455-5884 To register: www.CommonwealthGames.org
ADULT FLAG FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT Sat, Sept 17 | Peaks View Park Fields 8 & 9 | Ages 18+ | Team Fee: $150 For information contact: Venus Hamlett (434) 455-5864 To register: www.CommonwealthGames.org
ADULT BUBBLE SOCCER TOURNAMENT October 1 & 2 | Lynchburg City Stadium | Ages 18+ | Team Fee: $200 For information contact: Venus Hamlett (434) 455-5864 To register: www.CommonwealthGames.org
ALL AGES 3-ON-3 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT Sat, To
Sat, October 8 | Lynchburg City Armory | Ages 11+ | Team Fee: $60 For information contact: Venus Hamlett (434) 455-5864 register: www.CommonwealthGames.org
VISIT WWW.LYNCHBURGPARKSANDREC.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION
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NEWS FROM NORFOLK RECREATION, PARKS AND OPEN SPACES
May is Bike Month in Norfolk!
R
emember the freedom you felt when you first realized your bike could take you anywhere? Norfolk’s Recreation, Parks and Open Space (RPOS) annually celebrates the thrill of two-wheeled travel in May with events that appeal to casual and serious cyclists alike.
Public art, rodeos, glow-in-the-dark rides… there’s so much fun to be had on a bike!
neighborhoods, historic areas, and places of natural beauty from Naval Station Norfolk to the campus of Norfolk State University. Pit Stops around town on Bike to Work Day provide bike commuters with snacks and cool gear for their bikes.
Bicycling is also inspiring. Downtown While Norfolk is known as a historic Norfolk and neighboring districts are port city that is home to the largest peppered with locally-produced public By Holly Christopher, naval base, it’s also a dynamic place art installations that also serve as bike Division Head, Public Information, Norfolk Recreation, actively engaged in creating a great racks. The most recent installation Parks, and Open Space community for people to live, work, came this spring, when “The Pitch” and play. Part of those efforts include simple bike maintenance, bike safety, and was unveiled at Harbor Park Stadium, expanding options for bicyclists to safely practice their cycling skills. home to the Norfolk Tides. From a fork and confidently ride, whether for relaxation with noodles to our signature mermaid and or for the daily commute. Norfolk Bike With “Get out and play!” as its motto, abstract art in between, Norfolk recognizes Month is an opportunity for RPOS to bring RPOS makes sure to bring the fun! One that riding a bike is a beautiful thing. Norfolk awareness to those options while educating popular event is the Glow Ride, designed to Bike Month events and information can be residents on safe cycling. Local bike shops, tour through the recently launched Norfolk found at NorfolkBikeMonth.com. in addition to the shop rides they lead, offer arts district, NEON. workshops on bike maintenance and smart Organized by the Norfolk cycling. Numerous bike rodeos throughout Bicycling and Pedestrian the city allow kids the opportunity to learn Trails Commission, It’s good for the environment - When bicycling is substituted for short hundreds of riders switch auto trips, polluting emissions are reduced by 3.6 pounds. Ten bikes can park on their bike lights, in the space used by a single motor vehicle. Rather than rev your engine, don glow-in-the-dark think about kicking up the kickstand instead. clothing and accessories, and pedal through the It’s healthy & productive - A 10-mile round trip bike commute can district and downtown burn hundreds of calories. There’s nothing like riding to stimulate circulation, Norfolk. Community relieve stress, allow creative thought and establish a positive attitude toward rides abound along the oneself and one’s environment. waterfront and through. It’s economical - Bicycle commuting saves on parking fees, parking Also popular are those tickets, fuel costs, auto maintenance costs and transit fares. Cyclists could save community rides along up to 25% of their income, used for insurance and car payments, by getting the Elizabeth River Trail, rid of their car or their second car. 10.5 miles dedicated just to bicyclists and It’s FUN! - Families, friends and loved ones can all enjoy a ride together. pedestrians. The trail No matter your age, hopping on a bike is a thrill…start pedaling today. winds its way through
Why bike?
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NEWS FROM FAIRFAX COUNTY PARK AUTHORITY
WHY WE DO IT Sandy Kellogg, Aquatic Operation Manager, Fairfax County Park Authority, Mount Vernon RECenter
W
e all live in a world of rules and standards. Our facilities may not allow skateboarders on the walkways outside, golfers on the course after hours, or children in inflatable floaties down the slides. Our staff gets it too. Beyond the obvious requirements for being on time and sober, we have nametags, customer service mantras and training standards. Creating a staff with full commitment to our rules and standards is surprisingly easy, we just have to explain them from a different angle.
Here are a couple examples:
Pool Rules We are all familiar with the seemingly endless list of thing that people are no longer allowed to do in the pool. Everyone understands no running, even no dunking, but what about the game of “who can hold their breath the longest�?
In his book Start With Why Simon Sinek outlines a different approach to creating invested and committed staff.
Until we shared the Shallow Water Blackout statistics with our staff no one really knew why that particular rule existed. The Shallow Water Blackout Prevention web site shares stories of strong swimmers, swim team members, even Navy Seals who blacked out during hypoxic training. Suddenly the rule makes more sense.
Instead of explaining WHAT someone has to do, and defining HOW to do it, he advocates starting with WHY it is important. In his view, the rest will follow. This concept has helped redefine staff training and orientation for many lifeguards.
Not only are the staff more likely to enforce the rule, they can also explain to our customers, hopefully helping raise awareness of this very dangerous behavior. http://www. shallowwaterblackoutprevention.org/
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Pool Operations Hopefully all pool operators are aware of the dangerous chemicals they work with every day, and the seriousness of possibly mixing them. Every chemical has safety protocols, PPE that must be worn, and procedures that must be followed. Instead of starting our chemical training with what and how we start with why. 31 children were transported to emergency rooms on July 9, 2014 from a YMCA facility in Anne Arundel County because of an accidental release of chemicals into the pool. If pool operators can begin their training understanding why they are being so careful with these volatile chemicals hopefully they will be not only more careful for their own safety, but understand the burden of being responsible for everyone at their facility. http://www.nydailynews.com/news/ national/md-kids-poisoned-poolchemicals-ymca-camp-article-1.1860493
Louis
S t. Why We Do What We Do
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HERE WE COM
OCTOBER 5-8, 2016
And finally, the staggering reality of aquatics. Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children 1-4 years of age. This reality should be a part of everything we do.
AMERICA’S CENTER CONVENTION COMPLEX
Every staff interview and inservice training has to focus on defining our lifeguards by why they are important, why what they do is so critical. Staff need to believe that they are there to save lives and prevent injury, above any other job responsibility. The what and the how can come later. http://www.cdc.gov/injury/images/lc-charts/leading_causes_of_ injury_deaths_unintentional_injury_2014_1040w740h.gov
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NEWS FROM HERNDON
2016 HERNDON FESTIVAL SET FOR JUNE 2-5 Event features Free Entertainment, Fireworks and Carnival
T
he 36th annual Herndon Festival, a community-wide celebration that has earned national recognition as a premier event for families, will be held June 2-5, 2016 in and around Herndon’s Municipal Center complex and historic Town Hall Square. The Herndon Parks and Recreation Department is pleased to share the 36th Annual Herndon Festival logo and headline entertainment schedule. You can learn more about event details and the entertainment schedule by visiting www.herndonfestival.net. The four-day festival, which is produced by the Town of Herndon’s Parks and Recreation Department with assistance from area civic organizations and businesses, will feature entertainment on three stages, a carnival, fireworks, a Kids’ Alley with children’s handson art area, arts & crafts show, business expo, 10K/5K races and fitness expo, and an eclectic variety of top-quality food vendors.
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The Herndon Festival is free and open to the public, although there is a charge for some activities. You can follow the Herndon Festival on facebook.com/herndonfest and twitter@ herndonfestival. The Town of Herndon Parks and Recreation Department is nationally accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies and is a four-time National Gold Medal Award winner for excellence in park and recreation management presented by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration. The Town of Herndon, located in western Fairfax County, is the third largest town in the Commonwealth and is home to more than 23,000 citizens. For more information, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 703-787-7300 or visit www.herndonfestival.net.
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2016 Herndon Festival Headliners: THURSDAY HMC STAGE • 7:30-9:30pm Bluffett & The Son of a Sailor Band - Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band DEPOT STAGE • 8-9:30pm Gedeon Luke and the People - Soul Music FRIDAY DEPOT STAGE • 7:30-9:30pm Williamsburg Salsa Orchestra- Latin Dance Music influenced by Indie Rock HMC STAGE • 8:00-9:30pm Major and the Monbacks - The Right Amount of Twangy Soul to Classic Rock SATURDAY DEPOT STAGE • 8:00-9:30pm SVET - Electro Hip Hop Violinist HMC STAGE • 7:30-9:30pm Party of Four - American’s #1 Tribute to the 80’s and 90’s SUNDAY DEPOT STAGE • 12:00-1:30pm Civil Twilight - Alternate Rock HMC STAGE • 4:30-6:00pm Red Hot Chilli Pipers - Bagpipers with Attitude
NEWS FROM DEPARTMENTOF CONSERVATION AND RECREATION
Virginia Treasures on the Rise MORE THAN HALF OF THE 1,000-TREASURE GOAL HAS BEEN ATTAINED. NOMINATE YOUR TREASURES TODAY! Julie Buchanan, Public Relations Specialist with the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.
C
ultural and historical lands, working farms and forests, trails, accessible waterways, parks and scenic views are among the treasures that make Virginia the best state in which to live, work and play.
Governor Terry McAuliffe launched the initiative on Earth Day 2015 with the goal of reaching 1,000 treasures. There are two categories: • Natural, Cultural and Recreational Treasures • Land Conservation Treasures
First Lady Dorothy McAuliffe and Secretary of Natural Resources Molly Ward recently visited James Madison’s Montpelier to announce Virginia Treasures designation for the Montpelier-Grelen Trail. “The Montpelier-Grelen Trail allows visitors to walk in the footsteps of those who lived, worked on and visited this site over the last several hundred years,” the First Lady told NBC29. The Virginia Treasures initiative was developed to celebrate and formally recognize places and facilities that enhance public outdoor recreation and land conservation.
Natural, Cultural and Recreational Treasures may be nominated by local parks and recreation departments, federal and state agencies, and even private entities. These types of treasures must have been open to the public since January 11, 2014, the start of Governor McAuliffe’s administration. Details and a nomination form are available at www.dcr.virginia.gov/virginia-treasures. Nominations are reviewed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.
nized as Virginia Treasures,” said County Administrator Stephen A. Carter. “Both exemplify the natural beauty of Nelson County and are two shining examples of outdoor recreational opportunities in which history and pristine settings will thrill and excite young and old alike.” Land Conservation Treasures are established through fee-simple conservation and openspace easements or an amendment to an existing easement that protects significant resources. Nearly 400 treasures in this category had been recognized as of mid-May, bringing the Virginia Treasures total well past the halfway point. Landowners of designated Virginia Treasures receive a certificate and letter of thanks from Governor McAuliffe. Virginia Treasures information: Natural, Cultural and Recreational Treasures Robbie Rhur, robbie.rhur@dcr.virginia.gov Land Conservation Treasures David Boyd, david.boyd@dcr.virginia.gov
As of mid-May, 374 Natural, Cultural and Recreational Treasures had been recognized. Among them are the Blue Ridge Railway Trail and the Tye River Scenic Designation in Nelson County. “Nelson County is very appreciative and pleased that these were recogSUMMER 2016 n Virginia Recreation & Park Society
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2016 VRPS Conference Exhibit Hall November 6 - 7, 2016 I Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center
Vendors register online at - http://tinyurl.com/VRPS2016
EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES VRPS • 2016 ANNUAL CONFERENCE • VRPS.COM
2016 VRPS Conference Exhibit Hall Rates & Policies Premium Booths
Premium booth equipment: pipe and drape 8” high backdrops, 3’ high side rails, two draped 6” tables (A-H) , 2 chairs, and one booth identification sign (7”x44”). Booth
VRPS member By 2/28/16
non-member By 2/28/16
VRPS member After 2/28/16
non-member After 2/28/16
Booths A-D
$1215
$1465*
$1305
$1555*
Booths E-H
$1035
$1285*
$1125
$1375*
Standard booth will be 10’ x 10’ and equipment will include: pipe and drape 8’ high backdrops, 3’ high side rails, one draped 6’ table, 2 chairs, and one booth identification sign (7”x 44”). VRPS member By 2/28/16
(Complete Part A & C) Have your single sheet flier in the hand of every delegate by inserting it in the 2016 Conference Registration Packet. Send $250 to VRPS at 6372 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Suite 109, Mechanicsville, Virginia 23111 and 1000 copies for packet to: Roanoke County Parks, Attn: Scott Ramsburg, 1206 Kessler Mill Rd Salem, VA 24153 by 10/15/16.
Tabletop Brochure Placement
Standard Booths
Booth
Registration Packet Stuffers
non-member By 2/28/16
VRPS member After 2/28/16
non-member After 2/28/16
Booths 1-5
$675
$925*
$765
$1015*
Booths 6-82
$495
$745*
$585
$835*
* Non-member fees include a 1-year commercial membership to VRPS valued at $250. See below!
(Complete Part A & C) Have your brochure/single sheet flyer on an unmanned tabletop exhibit at the 2016 Conference. Send $250 to VRPS at 6372 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Suite109, Mechanicsville, Virginia 23111 and 1,000 copies to: Roanoke County Parks, Attn: Scott Ramsburg, 1206 Kessler Mill Rd Salem, VA 24153 by 10/15/16.
Conference App Advertisement
(Complete Part A & C) Reinforce your presence at the Conference by placing an ad in the VRPS ConferenceApp. Orders must be received and paid for by 9/1/16. For ad information, sizes and rates visit www.VRPS.com.
Exhibit Hall Hours Sunday, November 6, 2016 4:30pm-6:00pm Setup: 12:00pm-4:00pm
VRPS Commercial Members receive a 10% discount on their booth price only. To join, visit www.vrps.com and click on Membership Commercial Membership | $250 Companies other than non-profit organizations involved in the delivery of leisure services, equipment, supplies or similar associated activities for parks and recreation qualify for VRPS Commercial Membership. Each Commercial Member will receive: • Access to online Membership Directory, to include corporate logo, website URL, and Social links in Commercial Member listing • VRPS member agency department mailing list upon request • Copies of Virginia Parks & Recreation Magazine and VRPS President’s Newsletter (3 per year of each publication) • 10% discount for advertising • Membership certificate, free job bank and classifieds postings • Full use of Members Only sections of www.vrps.com New for 2016, Commercial Membership also includes: • Two individual Commercial Representative memberships for a total of 2 individuals representing the commercial organization • Listing on VRPS “Preferred Vendors” webpage, to include hotlink to website • Listing in Virginia Parks & Recreation magazine and VRPS Presidents Newsletter on full page representing preferred vendors - (6 publications/year - distributed electronically to entire VRPS membership)
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Monday, November 7, 2016 9:30am-12:30pm Tear down: 12:30pm-2:30pm
About Hotel Roanoke Located in beautiful Roanoke, Virginia, the historic Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, a DoubleTree by Hilton hotel, is situated alongside downtown Roanoke in the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, just minutes from the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport. Built in 1882, the fully-restored Tudor-style Hotel Roanoke is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As a member of IACC (International Association of Conference Centers), Hotel Roanoke is pleased to offer world-class lodging facilities, including newly renovated guest rooms and 63,000 square feet of stateof-the-art conference space. The hotel’s business facilities include 35 meeting rooms, a fixed-seat lecture hall, two boardrooms, conference center lounge and an elegant hotel ballroom which can accommodate up to 1,400 guests.
Promotional Items
To encourage delegates to visit the exhibit hall, we ask vendors to donate door prizes and items for the auction(s). Donation form is available at www.vrps.com/educationevents/annualconference/2016annualconference
VRPS 2016 - Pre-Conference Activities Saturday, November 5, 2016* National D-Day Memorial Tour:
The National D-Day Memorial is located in Bedford, Virginia — the community suffering the highest per capita D-Day losses in the nation. The Memorial honors the Allied forces that participated in the invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944 during World War II. With its stylized English Garden, haunting invasion tableau, and striking Victory Plaza, the Memorial stands as a powerful permanent tribute to the valor, fidelity, and sacrifice of D-Day participants. The Memorial is encompassed by the names of the 4,413 Allied soldiers who died in the invasion, the most complete list of its kind anywhere in the world. Time: 1:00 – 4:30 p.m. Cost: $10 (Non members: $15)
Behind the Scenes Facility Tour:
Enjoy touring and learning about two state-of-the-art facilities. Our first stop will be at Roanoke County’s Green Ridge Recreation Center, a 70,000 sq. ft. recreation center opened in 2010. Scott Shiflett, Center Manager will lead the tour and discuss the successes and failures so far, and answer participants questions. Our second stop will be at the Cregger Center at Roanoke College in Salem, Virginia. Construction of the 155,000-square-foot Cregger Center is progressing, with an August 2016 completion goal. The new center will include a performance gym with a 2,500-seat capacity and a field house with a 200-meter indoor track. The athletic portion of the complex also will include a fitness center to be used by the entire community, and an athletic training room. New event seating space for 3,500, along with several other social spaces, including dining areas, will allow the College to host outside speakers and events and bring our entire community together in ways that are not currently possible. A literal and metaphorical campus crossroads, the Cregger Center will be a hallmark of best educational practices today—intentionally designed to enhance engagement between and among students and faculty. Mr. John M. Farmer, Cregger Center Coordinator, Athletics will lead the tour of this brand new facility. Time: 1:00 – 4:30 p.m. Cost: $10 (Non members: $15)
New Technologies in Park Operations:
A look into the new technologies of lighting and irrigation systems. Learn the benefits and uses of these systems and how they can be used in Parks and Recreation. Provide insight into the how these new technologies can help organizations be more efficient, budget conscious, good stewards of conservation, and provide excellent customer service. Presenters: Joe Forche - Musco Lighting Systems, Ted Kienast – Smith Turf and Irrigation, and Robert Spangler – AquaTurf Inc. Time: 2:00 – 4:30 p.m. Cost: $15 (Non members: $20)
Inspiring Leadership:
Aligning your Gifts, Passion, and Purpose - If you are feeling burned out or need an energetic re-boot for your career, this workshop is for you! Join this interactive, motivating workshop to renew your passion and purpose for leading and performing your best. Learn a new framework to help you withstand the disappointments and stress from your job. Learn tips and tools for aligning your gifts to be of greater service and improve your work-life balance. Based on Linda’s book “Path for Greatness”. Presenter: Dr. Linda J. Ferguson PhD. President and CEO of New Paradigm Alliance, a consulting firm specializing in Organization Development, Leadership Development, Coaching and Strategic Planning Facilitation. Time: 2:00 – 4:30 p.m. Cost: $49 (Non members: $54) *RESERVATION DEADLINE: Spaces must be reserved by October 28 to ensure proper registration to run these programs.
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VRPS Preferred Vendors Anchor AudioAquatic Council, LLC
LSG Landscape Architecture
Aquatic Facility Design
MaxPlayFit
Barrs Recreation
Mid-Atlantic Products, Inc.
Blair Brothers
Musco Sports Lighting, LLC
Bliss Products and Services
National Flag Football
BSN Sports
National Pools of Roanoke
CHA Consulting, Inc.
Piedmont Virginia ASA
Court One
Pioneer Athletics
Cunningham Recreation/GameTime
Playground Specialists, Inc.
Draper Aden Associates
R.J. Thomas Manufacturing Company
Eskabubble
ReCPro Software SCORE
Gold Medal Products
SSCI
Harper and Company
Smith Midland Corp
Kimley-Horn
Timmons Group
Kings Dominion Land Planning and Design Associates
USTA Mid-Atlantic
Landscape Supply, Inc.
Vermont Systems
Liberty Mountain/Ski Roundtop/ Whitetail Resort
Waverly Lawn and Garden
Virginia Playground Services
2016 SENIOR RESOURCE GROUP CONFERENCE B U I L D I N G B LO C K S F O R A C T I V E O L D E R A D U LT S
Friday, October 7, 2016 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Bow Creek Community Recreation Center, 3427 Clubhouse Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia n Early member registration $45 n Early non-member registration $55 n Early student $20 n CEU’s $10 Early Registration opens July 15, 2016 • *Regular Registration opens August 16, 2016 • *Late Registration begins September 17, 2016 *Rate increases.
Scholarships available. Lunch included! 18
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2016 VRPS Annual Conference Registered Exhibitors:
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Park & Recreation Days June 24 – July 31, 2016
ONLY
36
$
00
For additional information contact: The Virginia Recreation & Park Society
804-730-9447 • www.vrps.com Cedar Fair L.P. KD16-225
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NEW in 2016