Parks & Recreation Official Publication of the Virginia Recreation & Park Society
1953
1965
Fall 2014
1979
VRPS Magazines - 61 Years!
1989
1993
2007
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Virginia Recreation & Park Society n FALL 2014
Official Publication of the Virginia Recreation & Park Society
Volume 65 Fall 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
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. 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.
Contents Features & Department 4
Message from the President
5
2014 VRPS Board, Key Leaders and Staff
6
VRPS 2014 Calendar of Events
7
Look Back in Time to the 1950’s
8
Look Back in Time to the 1960’s
10 Look Back in Time to the 1970’s 12 Look Back in Time to the 1980’s 14 Look Back in Time to the 1990’s 16 Look Back in Time to the 2000’s 18 Look Back in Time to the 2010’s
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.
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A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
It’s All About You – the Members!
I
t’s hard to believe that it’s November and Annual Conference is just around the corner. As I look back on the past year and forward to 2015, I am amazed at the commitment of our membership and our board to the success of VRPS. At last year’s Annual Conference, I said I wanted to focus this year on member involvement; that I believed we needed to get more members involved in the activities of the society. I have heard over the years that the Board of VRPS is disconnected from the membership. I can tell you again that in my time on the Board we are anything but disconnected. The members of the Board are more involved than ever and are doing more to ensure the success of VRPS. This year I have seen our membership grow, membership renewals increase and members step forward on their own to meet and embrace the challenges we faced this year. I’d like to thank the 2014 State Conference Committee, they have worked hard, been creative and
innovative, and are planning an 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. During your stay, you have the opportunity to experience unique educational opportunities, exciting socials and eye-catching exhibits. The conference committee this year is comprised of professionals from across the state who have come together and produced a marque conference. They have been hard at work for almost 2 years, and I’m sure you’ll agree that the product is exceptional. The educational sessions are varied and relevant, and they address the evolving direction of our profession. I hope you will find something over these few days that sparks your imagination, enthusiasm and passion for our field. In addition to taking advantage of the educational sessions, I encourage you to use these few days to reconnect with colleagues and learn from each other. Looking forward to next year we elected 3 new Board Members, Aaron
Art Thatcher, CPRP, AFO, MPA President, Virginia Recreation & Park Society
Reidmiller, Blythe Russian, and Bill Sgrinia - please join me in welcoming them to the board. Also, Marcy Durrer was elected President for 2015 in a Special Meeting of the Board of Directors in October. I know you will support her as you supported me this year. 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. As this year comes to a close and I prepare to pass the gavel of leadership to our new President, I am reminded of the many reasons why VRPS is such a unique and special organization. I have come to deeply appreciate and understand the hard work and dedication of our Executive Director, Jim Stutts, the staff at the Central Office, and all the members of VRPS who selflessly give of their time and talents to this wonderful association and our profession. It has been an honor and privilege to serve as your President this year and I thank you for the opportunity.
Become a champion for VRPS! Visit www.vrps.com or call the VRPS Office at 804-730-9447 or email vrps@vrps.com for volunteer opportunities. 4
Virginia Recreation & Park Society n FALL 2014
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 ‘15 Foundation Awards & Citations Hershey Track & Field LTI 2016 Management Conference Professional Education Virginia Senior Games Legislative
Kathy Williams, CTRS Shannon Moore, CPRP Greg Sager
Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Hanover County Parks & Rec
757-385-5990 757-385-0420 804-365-4690
kdwillia@vbgov.com smoore@vbgov.com rgsager@hanovercounty.gov
Paul W. Berryman Kristin Hamill Matt Spruill, CPRP Lakita Watson, CPRP Shannon Moore, CPRP Karen Washington Kevin Myers Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Art Thatcher, CPRP
Virginia Beach Parks & Rec Newport News Parks, Rec, & Tourism Colonial Heights Recreation & Parks Suffolk Parks & Rec Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Newport News Parks, Rec & Tourism Newport News Parks, Rec & Tourism Virginia Rec & Park Society GreenPlay LLC
757-426-0022 757-926-1419 804-520-9392 757-514-7251 757-385-0420 757-926-1400 757-926-1414 804-730-9447 757-592-3103
pberryma@vbgov.com khamill@nngov.com spruillm@colonialheightsva.gov lwatson@suffolkva.us smoore@vbgov.com kwashington@nngov.com kmyers@nngov.com jim@vrps.com art@greenplayllc.com
CEO Admin Assistant Member Services Coor.
Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Lori Haislip Nancy Turnage
Virginia Rec & Park Society Virginia Rec & Park Society Virginia Rec & Park Society
804-730-9447 804-730-9447 804-730-9447
jim@vrps.com lori@vrps.com nancy@vrps.com
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
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
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
Mary Durrer, Jim Stutts Kathy Williams Margaret Thorne, Marcy Durrer, Michael Kalvort
Revised 2/1/14 FALL 2014 n Virginia Recreation & Park Society
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JANUARY 2015
VRPS Board Tele-Work Session 2015 AC Meeting Board Meeting Central Office Closed Board Meeting & Leadership Conference VRPS/DCR Dual Webinar - Part 2 Management Conference 2015 Meeting
Wed, 2/11 10am Mon, 2/16
2015 Annual Conference Meeting Central Office Closed
Wed, 3/11 10am Mon, 3/23 Tues, 3/24
2015 Annual Conference Meeting Athletic Fields - Salem Athletic Fields - Chesapeake
Wed, 3/25 Thurs, 3/26
Athletic Fields - Henrico Athletic Fields - Fairfax
MARCH 2015
Thurs, 1/8 10am Wed, 1/14 10am Thurs, 1/15 10am Fri, 1/16 – Mon, 1/19 Thurs, 1/22 10am Tues, 1/27 11am Wed, 1/28 10am
FEBRUARY 2015
VRPS 2015 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Built on a strong foundation that has spanned three generations, Cunningham Recreation is dedicated to creating unique, fun playgrounds that provide meaningful play experiences for children of all ages and abilities. From lightly themed play areas to complete themed designation parks, if you can imagine it, we can build it!
800.438.2780
www.cunninghamrec.com
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LOOK BACK IN TIME TO THE TITLES OF ARTICLES FROM THE 1950’s July 30, 1953
“Franklin Midge Tennis teams Defeat Suffolk” “Show Wagon” will Travel Parks and Playgrounds” – Charlottesville’s Recreation Department
“Salaries and Professional Requirements on Increase” In Milwaukee Wisconsin the salary schedules for 1953 provide a minimum salary of $3327 for a ten month year for Recreation Instructors; maximum $6027; Recreation Directors start at $5027 and can reach $7127. Recreation Supervisors go from $5127 to $7577 and Division Directors go from $5127 to $7977. Pay for seasonal and part-time playground instructors ranges from .65 an hour to $1.50.
It is doubtful that any city in Virginia has reached as high a salary schedule; however, the goal should be as high in many of the localities and through good work , good public relations, and good sound policy such a goal can be reached. August 25, 1953
“Playgrounds in Petersburg” With attendance slated to reach 22,500 in 10 municipal playgrounds closed on Friday August 14, 1953 after having been in operation since June 15. Attendance at the playgrounds averaged 450 a day. Activities were directed by Randy Mallory, who has been connected with playground work in Petersburg for more than six years. The City put the playgrounds on a year round basis this season for the first time and Mr. R.H. Salmon, the new Recreation Director is at work on an even more elaborate program for the next year. His department has used this summer to observe and study 10 playgrounds, ages of children attending and their interests. September 25, 1953
“The Recognition of Recreation As A Function of State Government” by Ted Dalton, GOP Candidate for Governor of Virginia.
Ad: WANTED
Supervisor of Special Activities Woman Preferred Salary - $2900 to $3150 (Starting) Vacation – 2 weeks Duties – Supervise Playground Program, Social Recreation, Square Dancing, Ballroom Dancing, Girls Activities. If interested, please contact Mr. V.C. Smoral Recreation Department, Danville, VA March 30, 1954
“Training Institute A Tremendous Success” The Annual Training Institute conducted March 18-19 at Charlottesville by the Virginia Recreation Association ant the State Department of Physical Education, Health, Recreation and Safety, was attended by approximately one hundred recreation workers and school personnel.
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LOOK BACK IN TIME TO THE TITLES OF ARTICLES FROM THE 1960’s State of Virginia. There must be new jobs and new opportunities; there must be competition for employers and employees; there must be standards of quality for personnel and programs; there must be understanding of the necessity and the needs of recreation personnel by the general public and government officials; there must be an unquestionable liaison with the public and with the government; there must be poise, patience, intelligence, charm and wit on our part; there must be good, sound leadership with sincere and active support; we must do the thing, as individuals as a Society, that not only gains respect but also demands it. At the present time, Recreation and its personnel represent the tolerated but unwanted step-child. We stand in our urchin-like clothing crying out to any and all that will listen to give us help and to give us understanding; we constantly compare ourselves to the other people in this vast empire of social service in regards to our service, its importance and its results. December 2, 1960
Magazine title VRS (Virginia Recreation Society) changed to NOVELES “The first issue of the NOVELES. It is planned to have an issue each month. Your contributions will be welcomed. It is hoped that it will be interesting informative and controversial enough that you will read it and want to contribute to it. This is your NOVELES; everyone should help to make it good.
WHERE DO WE GO IN 1961? By Howard Mast “Recreation is a thing of vitality, exuberance, vibrancy, curiosity, self-expression, joy and happiness; passiveness and laziness are NOT components of Recreation.
No longer can we appeal with naked, out-stretched hands or dark glasses and a tin cup. We must now come well dressed, with intelligence and persuasiveness, ith vitality and knowledge, with open eyes and an armored car. We must stand together, pull together, profit together and enjoy the fruits of our labor together. In our bag of tricks must be a job well done by each and every one of us in our own communities, for without it we should not begin to open the bag. And we must not rely entirely on our own judgment of others. We must evaluate ourselves and our program without selfishness, inhibition, or fear; but instead with objectivity and enlightenment for the purpose of improving ourselves and our programs.
There is no place in the world today for a professional society that is marking time with our without music. There must be a plan for advance: that plan must be actuated. The first and foremost responsibility of the Virginia Recreation Society is to the field of Recreation because without it there will be no need for us. For the personnel now employed to prosper and to grow in stature, we must make it our business to aid in the expansion of recreation, both private and public, throughout the
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We must have in our bag of tricks the desire and ability to cooperate with all agencies (schools, boys clubs, scouts, municipal departments, hospitals, private clubs) in service, advise and program. This must be done if we are to broaden the base of recreation and if we are going to give it stability, reliability and respect. In our bag of tricks must be the understanding and the wisdom to accept the fact that Recreation requires more than experience alone. We must realize that we are working with people and their lives, and to be effective, we must give ourselves to these people. We must, therefore, set the educational standards equal to or higher than other social service organizations so that, not only can we grow bigger and inherit more wisdom, but so that we are in an unquestioned position to contribute more to the lives of those we serve. It requires a far more active and ingenuous person to work in recreation than it does Welfare; it requires more ingenuity, more versatility, more patience, more poise, better general personality, and general knowledge to work effectively in Recreation than it does in school teaching. Both of these now have relatively high educational requirements; we need it more than either of them. We must recognize it; accept it and plan to effectively work in the direction that is considered best. The Virginia Recreation Society is our medium through which we can collectively jell our philosophy and through which we can effectively promote Recreation and its personnel. This shall be the goal of VRS in 1961. November 7, 1963
“Cecil Gilkerson Installed For Second Term” Cecil Gilkerson, Director of Parks and Recreation in Harrisburg, was installed as President of the Virginia Recreation Society, for a second term, for the fiscal year beginning November 1, 1963 to October 31, 1964, following the Southeastern District Meeting at Langley Air Force Base on November 6. Also installed were Harry Knight, first Vice President; Fred Williams, second Vice President; Connie Rollison, Treasurer; Board Members, Myrtle Patterson, Donald Wingo and Kenneth Burnett; Ex-Officio, Hoard Mast. The leadership is only as effective as the membership reacts favorably. It is, therefore, essential that each and
Richmond – Richmond Group Worker College graduate with one year experience working with handicapped. Drivers permit. Salary $4784 -$5720. Apply Department of Personnel, 1001 East Clay Street, Richmond, VA. April 1969
Job Opportunities Alexandria is recruiting for an assistant director at their Cameron Street Center. This recreation supervisor I Position will work 35 hours a week at $6510 per annum. every member give whole support to the officers. Under President Gilkerson’s leadership the membership grew tremendously in 1962-63. The Virginia Recreation Conference, conducted in Norfolk in March 1963, has been acclaimed as the best in its history. The membership grew from 187 to 257 and increase of 70. Mr. Gilkerson set the goal for 1963-64 at 300 members. It is a modest goal, but he believes it can easily be achieved. Side note – As of October 2014 membership is at 935.
June 3, 1966
“Softball in Virginia” A number of recreation Department officials are cooperating again this year with the Virginia Amateur Softball Association. Marshall Rotella of Richmond and James Barnett of Winchester are members of the Virginia ASA Advisory Board. Serving as District Commissioners are George Peters of Lynchburg, John Campbell of Portsmouth, and Ronnie Burroughs of Newport News, George Rhodes of Chesapeake, Tome Brown of Fieldale and Ralph Smith of Fredericksburg. In addition to the Recreation Department officials, a number of laymen are serving as District Commissioners. The Virginia ASA holds 12-inch pitch tournaments and slow pitch tournaments in which the 10-inche, 14-inch and 16-inch softballs are used. It has the largest, longest and most diversified softball program in the United States. Other Recreation Department aids interested in playing a
role in the Virginia ASA Program should write to the State Softball Commissioner Hank Wolfe, 118 Seneca Road, Richmond, VA 23226. Wolfe is an Associate Member of The Virginia Recreation Society.
“New Constitution”
November 1967
“Bull Run – Occoquan Creek Area Enlarged” The Northern Virginia regional Park Authority following more than a year’s negotiations, has added 167.1377 acres to its 1700 acre park holdings along the Bull Run – Occoquan Creek shore line on the Fairfax County border. Cost per acre $1715.
So that everyone will know what changes in the Constitution were made at the Annual meeting in March, 1966, a copy has been enclosed in this issue for you to read and know.
January 1968
The major changes are: (1) name Virginia Recreation and Parks Society; (2) Vice-Presidents increased to include one from each district; (3) cycle billing instead of calendar billing; (4) fiscal year May 1 – April 30; dues
The Old Police Station (we have a new One) was converted to “The 13 th Floor”. … the real organizational strength of this program was the cooperative effort by a local civic club to assist in financing the initiating of the program, the strong leadership and talents the youth showed and the guidance of the Department of Recreation…The coffee house is “In” in Charlottesville.
Professional$25, Associate $15 Student $6. November 1966
Publication title changes from Noveles to VRPS NEWS
“Youth Coffee House – It’s No Place Like Home”
April 1969
January 1967
“Apple Blossom Festival”
Employment Opportunities Arlington County- Recreation I (3 vacancies) Professional and supervisory work as a director or assistant director of a neighborhood recreation center or as an area supervisor of a group of playgrounds. Graduate of four year college, preferable with specialization in recreation or closely related field. Some recreation experience desirable. Ability to obtain Virginia Driver’s License. Salary $6156 - $7488 with top longevity $8112. Apply Department of Personnel, Court House, Arlington 22201 before June 30, 1967
Winchester’s Department of Parks and Recreation extends an invitation to all to attend the 42nd Annual Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival May 1-3.
April 1969
“Wanted Immediately” Information on Mini Pools, Portable Pools, Summer Program Plans Including Festivals, Summer Playground Themes, Innovations, Different Teen-Age Programs.
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LOOK BACK IN TIME TO THE TITLES OF ARTICLES FROM THE 1970’s weekends. This remarkable record was achieved in spite of several days of bad weather, loss of the 4th of July holiday and a total fleet consisting of only 6 paddle boats and 6 rowboats. Paddle boats rentals at .75 cents per half hour for three persons, .25 cents for each extra person, far exceeded rowboat rentals at .50 cent per half hour or $2.50 per day… Total cost of construction and boats based on the leased land came to less than $14,000. September 1971
“Relay Unique in Winchester” September 1970
“1971 VRPS Convention Set” “Recreational and Parks – A Bridge Over Troubled Waters,” is the theme for the 1971 VRPS Convention at Natural Bridge next April 25, 26, and 27th… September 1970
“Danville Opens New Boating Center” T he Danville Pa rks and Recreation Department recently opened Dan River Park, a 3.2 acre leased facility fronting the Dan River along a major highway within the city limits. A major feature of the park is the city operated paddle boat and rowboat rental system. Opening on July 7, the facility completed the month with more than 3,000 person renting boats and waiting lists as long as two hours on
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A 440 yard grass oval in Winchester’s Recreation Park was the site of an unique sporting event in August as the Department of Parks and Recreation presented a 24 hour relay. So far as it is known this was the second 24 hour relay ever run in the Old Dominion. Six teams entered the even all but seven participants lasted for the complete time. In the process two of the ten man teams bested the “State Record” set by the William and Mary Track Club in June. Winchester entered three teams in the event. Its A team established a new state record of 271 miles, 1919 yards. According to statistics released by Runner’s World in the same month this distance is the fourth highest total in the nation for the current year and is only six miles, 705 yards below the national leader, Furman University…..The youngest team member was a 13 year old from Harrisonburg who
Virginia Recreation & Park Society n FALL 2014
ran a total of 25 miles…The course which was mowed lower than the surrounding grass, was marked with a bright yellow line. Flags and streamers roped off the curb lane. It measured 1322 feet at the start of the race. November 1970
“James River Park Dedicated” April 1972
“Santa Calls Project Reaches Thousands” Hampton’ Recreation Department staged the most successful Santa Claus call program December 23 in its nine year history. Approximately 4000 telephone calls were made to five and six year old youngsters of the Peninsula between 5:30 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. Santa, personified by the voices of 250 male volunteers, plus an untold number of women serving as “long distance Operators, were housed on one floor of a single building. A refreshment room was almost as popular as the old man himself. More than a thousand ham biscuits alone disappeared in the first hour… March-April 1975
“Harrisonburg Senior Citizens Center Opened” We travel in different cycles during our lives, from children to adults and from adults to elderly. The American Society prepares children to be adults; but doesn’t prepare adults for old age. With the ever increasing pace of change we are experiencing our senior citizens are often forgotten and pushed away to spend the remainder of their lives in institutions….The Price Rotary Senior Citizen Center which recently opened in Harrisonburg’s Westover Park
group….This program was inspired by Mr. C. Grattan Price, whom the center was named after. Mr. Price still sustains an active life at ninety-one years of age. Mr. Price is a charter member of the Rotary Club in Harrisonburg..
January-February 1976
is attempting to create an extended family situation for its senior citizens…. the program activities will include crafts, field trips, guest speakers, social activities and recreational activities. A visiting nurse will come to the center once a month to help the group cope with the various health problems of this age
“State Parks Eliminate Architectural Barriers In Many Locations” In 1973 the Division of State Parks became very much interested in providing recreational accessibility and facilities for the handicapped. Our interest was ignited about the same time disability guidelines became a reality for any newly constructed or planned buildings, etc. September – October 1977
“Municipal Skateboard Park Virginia Beach “On September 1, 1977, the Virginia Beach Department of Parks and Recreation opened the first municipal skateboard park in Virginia at Mt. Trashmore….
Job Opening May-June 1976
Recreation Supervisor I – Teen Services Coordinator
May –June 1978
“Hobby (Fee) Classes Versus Physical Recreation … What Happening?” “The Hershey National Track and Field Youth Program for 1978 Will Include All Fifty States”
Position requires a four year degree in the field of Parks and recreation with some supervisory experience. Individual must have a thorough knowledge of and ability to develop, programs in a community center. Knowledge of aquatics is desired $8,472 annually. Apply to City of Virginia Beach, Department of Personnel, Municipal Center, Virginia Beach, 23456.
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LOOK BACK IN TIME TO THE TITLES OF ARTICLES FROM THE 1980’s Virginia Views January 1980
August 1985
“Volunteer in Parks and Recreation A Success Story”
“Conference Success Noted By All” The joint efforts of the City of Roanoke, Town of Vinton, City of Salem, and Roanoke County Departments of Park and Recreation provided an outstanding educational and social program for more than 750 practitioners in the leisure services field. The two and a half days that composed the 25th Annual Conference for the Virginia Recreation and Park Society were filled with opportunities to learn, to experience, and to share. The attendees left with a feeling of commitment and eagerness for the next program year.
February1984
“With the recent approval of the VRPS Board of Trustees, the Society’s professional magazine formerly “Virginia Views” has been given a new name …”Virginia Parks and Recreation”. The change is an effort to establish a more positive and direct identity to VRPS for its members, as well as potential members, related groups and the general public.
January – March 1980
“Incentive Fund Program” The Portsmouth Parks and Recreation Department has been managing a successful Incentive Fund Program for the past three years. Local community groups have been able to undertake projects for the improvement or establishment of recreational facility facilities by participating in this 50/50 fund matching Incentive Fund Program…
May 1984
“The Birth of a Brochure” By Debbie Devine Public Information Officer, City of Virginia Beach 1. DO YOU NEED ME? 2. KISS 3. BE ORIGINAL
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4. BE THOROUGH 5. SEE A SPECIALIST 6. IT TAKES TIME TO PRODUCE A QUALITY PRODUCT. 7. THE NINTH MONTH 8. NOW THAT I’VE ARRIVED WHAT NEXT
May 1984
“Marketing Shapes New Initiatives for State Parks and Recreation” Submitted by Virginia Division of Parks and Recreation The first 50 years for the Virginia Division of Parks and Recreation might be characterized by a “product oriented” approach to policies and procedures. The Division spent much of its management energies on acquisition, development and new construction. Eventually, an attractive assortment of 23 leisure parks, 6 historical sites, and 6 natural areas filled out the facilities list for the agency and programs such as technical assistance and grants-in-aid to localities, scenic rivers and environmental education were established. The 1980’s will unfold new opportunities, new demands and new needs. To handle these, the Division must be prepared to react to the situations, find workable solutions and complete their mandated assignments. As a management tool to meet these challenges, marketing must become a household word and practice. It is this management tool that will help the Division steer its future course. Marketing in its simplest form, can be defined as “finding out what the public wants and supplying it.”….
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How would you like to have the services of a graduate horticulturist working as a volunteer in your park system for 20-40 hours a week; or would you like to be able to round-up 1,500 volunteers for a community recreation event; or how about being able to generate volunteers to entirely run your successful soccer league and /or hockey program? These and many, many more successful volunteer stories were found through the survey recently completed by the Citizen Board Member (CBM) branch of the National Recreation and Park Association…
August 1985
“What Is A Volunteer?” By Bernice A. Anderson Recreation Specialist with the Richmond Department of Parks and Recreation For many years the Richmond Department of Recreation and Parks has relied upon special persons to help support centers, staff and programs. These persons are called volunteers. From every walk of life, these persons come to give of themselves. They include administrators, bricklayers, cooks, deliverymen, educators,
farmers, geologists, historians, inn keepers, judges, knitters, landlords, machinists, nurses, opticians, parents, quarterbacks, radiologists, seamstresses, truck drivers, underwriters, vendors, welders, xylographers, yeomen, and zoologists. They are also of different sizes and ages. Often times these persons juggle careers and family in order to fulfill their commitments. But these person have one common goal; to give service to their communities. The volunteers have the knowledge and ability to handle almost any given situation and program; and more than that; they have the patience to deal with our young people. In Richmond, the volunteers supply transportation to athletic events and hot refreshments at half-time of a football game. With a touch of magic, funds appear for uniforms and other social events in areas where finances are low. They give guidance, discipline, moral support and shoulder to lean on when need. These persons are not monarchs or philanthropists but just average human beings. However, the time and talents they have shared with us is more valuable than money itself. They have given us the most priceless gift to mankind-themselves; and we are honored to call them Volunteers.
February 1988
“A DECADE OF GOLDEN PARTICIPATION”
May 1987
“Name Change”
Make plans now to join the 10th anniversary of the VRPS Golden Olympics. Join in the celebration of “A Decade of Golden Participation”.
The Virginia Division of Parks and Recreation has announced that the former “Sayler’s Creek Battlefield Historic State Park” shall be changed to read as follows: “Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Historic State Park”.
This exciting celebration will include many fascinating aspects. First, the games are slated for May 19th – 22nd at Norfolk’s State University. We will be offering Wednesday night housing and an early registration
discount. Second, we will be qualifying participants for the 1989 National Senior Olympics. These games are scheduled for June 19 – 24, 1989 National’s must qualify at the Virginia Golden Olympics in 1988. And finally plans are made for bigger socials, exciting opening and closing ceremonies, challenging events, specials celebrations and lots of chances for fun, fellowship and competition…
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LOOK BACK IN TIME TO THE TITLES OF ARTICLES FROM THE 1990’s belong to a golf club; they must not own a set of golf clubs and they must have never played the game of golf.
Fall 1992
“How Might We Genuinely Aid AtRisk Youth”
Written by Wayne F. Stormann, Ph.D. Associate Professor at State University of New York College at Cortland.
Summer 1990
“Techniques for Strengthening Advisory Committees” As organizations seek to effectively plan, implement and evaluate their programs many are finding advisory committees to be an important and valuable resource. Many organizations look to advisory committees for guidance in program planning and use committees to gauge the needs of communities begin served. One technique found to be effective in the integration of new committee members is to plan an orientation meeting. This helps to educate members with regard to committee purpose, objectives, and policies. Such committees when utilized effectively can be invaluable to an organization…
Winter/Spring 1991
NYSCA “Hook A Kid On Golf Program” The NYSCA “Hook A Kid On Golf Program” has been developed by the National Youth Sports Coaches Association to help keep kids involved with quality sports programs and away from drugs and alcohol. This national program enables youngsters who would probably not have the opportunity to attend a week long golf clinic at no cost…. Here’s how the program works: sponsors donate $100 for each participant which enables a child to attend the week long clinic and to keep all golf merchandise. In order to participate, children must meet the following criteria: they must be between the ages of 8 -14; their parents may not
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At-risk youth have been a primary focus to the recreation movement even before the founding of the Playground Association of America (PAA) in 1906. In Fact, the youth group which was targeted by the PAA, the adolescent juvenile delinquent, is still the focal group of the New York State Division of Youth. Why is it, I pondered, that after a century of trying to use recreation to prevent or curtail juvenile delinquency, our profession is still pursuing what seems to be an elusive goal?....
Winter 1993
“Diversity in the Workplace offers Many Benefits” By Marie F. Coone and Darrell R. Crittendon The best talent makes for a winning team. A staff with diverse background and talents will make a leisure service organization that is strong, recreational programs that are exciting and outstanding, and park and recreation departments that can fully serve the needs of diverse populations… Attracting Diverse Clientile – Staff who respect diversity are comfortable working with diverse clientele…Programming for Diversity – Diversity of recreational and cultural programming is essential in order to reach all segments of the community… Minority Participation – Statistical information on the number of minorities in the leisure service profession
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in Virginia is not readily available…The Need for Diversity…The purpose of recreation as established by the founding fathers was to recreate, to enhance one’s life, well-being and the overall quality of life, to assist with a healthy life and outlook and to refresh… Local governments also can benefit from the competencies, talents and energies provided by a diverse workforce… Debunking the Myth – Many organizations have long held that they could “find no qualified minority professionals.” Various organizations throughout Virginia have debunked this myth… Much More Needed – Local governments must provide a systematic approach to the recruitment, retention and upward mobility of minorities in leisure services…Creating a Receptive Environment – Managing diversity requires an immediate and long term emphasis. It will also require a shift in the mindset to doing the right thing by choice rather than by force…Starting the Process – It is incumbent upon our leadership to ensure that individuals succeed, thereby helping the organization as a whole to succeed….
Spring 1993 Cover of the Magazine
“You Don’t Stop Playing Because You Grow Old… You Grow Old Because You Stop Playing”
force adds to an already complex equation. The Senior Section of VRPS must use the unique skills of its membership to grapple with real problems in an uncertain future…
Winter 1997/1998
“VRPS To Participate in the Virginia Turf Survey” A coalition of turf grass professionals will conduct a turf grass survey. The survey is intended to review the future needs and impact of this diverse industry. In conjunction with the Virginia Agricultural Statistics, Department and the Virginia Turf Grass Council, a team of VRPS members will participate in this project.
Spring 1993 Contributing Editor’s Message
“Diversity And The Graying of America” By Greg Sager, Senior Adult Coordinator, Henrico County Division of Recreation and Parks and 1993 VRPS Senior Section Chairman. ….While numerically remaining one of the smallest
special interest sections in VRPS, Senior Section possesses perhaps the most diverse group of individuals…Programming for seniors has never been more difficult. The frail elderly and the active senior both present programming challenges. The fact that many seniors are still in the work
Job Announcement Winter 1997/1998
Parks and Recreation Director The City of Harrisonburg is seeking an energetic and experienced professional with strong leadership skills. Position reports directly to the City Manager. Plans, directs, coordinates and supervises comprehensive City-wide parks and recreation programs. Directs the activities and use of public recreation facilities such as, playgrounds, parks, swimming pools, tennis facilities, athletic fields and recreation centers; serves as staff support to the Parks and recreation Commission… Salary range $40,060 – 44,467 (DOQ)
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LOOK BACK IN TIME TO THE TITLES OF ARTICLES FROM THE 2000’s law prohibits the purchase of 15 passenger vans for both private and public schools, but preschools and colleges can use them for now… Summer 2003
“Virginia Tourism Corporation Marketing Tips Promote Your Outdoor Recreation Service On Virginia.org”
Winter 2000
“Strategic Planning Committee Tackles Restructuring” Summer 2000
2000 VRPS Conference The Homestead – December 2 - 5 Winter 2001
“VRPS Board of Directors New Structure as of January 1, 2001 “ Summer 2001
“Athletic Field Maintenance Program in Arlington County ” The article included the Background on Improvement of Arlington’s Athletic Field Maintenance, Background on Synthetic Turf; Synthetic Grass versus Natural Grass Cost Benefit Analysis Conclusions; and Additional Benefits of Synthetic Grass Fields vs. Natural Grass Fields. Fall 2005
“WiFI Hot Spot at Monroe Park” Submitted by Christy Everson, Marketing & PR Specialist Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Facilities City of Richmond. The City of Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities and the Monroe Park Advisory Council are excited to announce the creation of a WiFi Hotspot in Monroe Park. This is the city’s first park to offer WiFi or high-speed data access to its visitors.
“15 Passenger Van Alert” Source: “The Roanoke Times, Monday, July 23, 2001 In April the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration issued a consumer advisory that 15 passenger vans are almost three times likely to roll over when carrying 10 or more passengers….Federal
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2006
“Herndon Festival Recognized as One of Nation’s Highly Effective Special Events”
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Winter 2007/2008
“Fredericksburg’s Urban Trail Ride Sets a Record” The City of Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation and Public Facilities has been hosting an Urban Trail Ride for many years. The event allows horse enthusiasts to ride their horses through the city and receive special treatment from the City with closed streets, entertainment and refreshments. The City gets great publicity and new visitors! The fall 2007 event hosted 80 horses! Event Chair
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Sarah Byrne is proud of the event and is committed to growing it further. And there is more. One half of the proceeds of from the event ($995) are donated to VRPS!...Thank you Fredericksburg! Thank you Bob Antozzi! … Bob is the current VRPS Foundation President and has been most generous in his personal and Professional support to the Foundation. His combined gifts exceed $20,000. Bob has suggested that we establish at least one local special event in each Service Area, with proceeds going to the Foundation..
Fall 2005 Job Announcement Director of Parks and Recreation & Tourism City of Danville, Virginia ($61,000 - $85,000 + Benefits) The City of Danville, VA (Population 48,000) is seeking a Director for the City’s Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Department…..
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LOOK BACK IN TIME TO THE TITLES OF ARTICLES FROM THE 2010’s Recreation The staff of the Town of Leesburg’s Parks and Recreation never guessed that one day they would be organizing an airshow. That’s exactly what they were busy with this past spring and summer leading up to the 2nd Annual Leesburg Airshow that has held on Saturday, October 1st. The staff was called to assist the volunteer airshow committee when, in March, the Airport Director position became vacant…. Spring 2012 News from James City County
“Freedom Park Interpretive Center Opens”
News from the VRPS Foundation
“$99,000 and Dropping” Thanks to all who so generously contributed to the Society’s capital campaign and building fund during 2011!
Fall 2010
“Coming Together For the Youth” By Frank Davis City of Franklin “Sk8 Northside, Norfolk, Virginia” On October 2 the Norfolk Department of Recreation Parks & Open Space opened its newest recreation facility, Northside Plaza…. Fall 2011
“Leesburg Parks and Recreation Takes Flight” By Kate Trask, Deputy Director, Town of Leesburg Parks And Recreation and Rachel Goodwin Town of Leesburg Parks and
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Summer 2013
“Norfolk Hosts 30th Annual Senior Olympics”
Congratulations to the
City of Alexandria
Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities and the
City of Virginia Beach
Departments of Parks and Recreation for achieving Re-accreditation at the National Recreation and Park Associations Annual Congress in Charlotte, NC.
From the Editor Many articles have been submitted and published for our Society’s magazine over the last 61 years. From the day of the typewriter and hand drawn covers to the digital age, here we are, many magazines later. Our magazine titles over the decades 50’s – Virginia Recreation News 60’s – VRS (Virginia Recreation Society) and Noveles 70’s – Virginia Views 80’s and our current title – Virginia Parks and Recreation Society Thank you to the past editors for their dedication 1950s – 60s – Howard Mast 1960s - Gertrude Flippen 1970s – John D. Scott, Bette Wessman, Mark R. Otis, Miriam Montag, Debbie Deutsch, Don Thorne 1980s – Cathe Hart, Debbie Devine, Kevin Mulligan, Sharon K. Entsminger 1990s – Debbie Cassidy 2000s – Dana Pritchett, Diane Ryburn This was an enjoyable little project, with the help of Beth Wood Whitley and the staff at Herndon and Vienna we have looked through many magazines and the comment “look at this…” came up when we found something interesting and exciting. I hope you enjoy some of our excerpts from past publications, I wish we could print more. Thank you to the Staff at VRPS for keeping and storing all these magazines. FALL 2014 n Virginia Recreation & Park Society
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Virginia Recreation & Park Society 6372 Mechanicsville Turnpike Suite 109 Mechanicsville, VA 23111
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