Spring 2010 VRPS Magazine by Jim Stutts

Spring 2010

Official Publication of the Virginia Recreation & Park Society

V i r g i n i aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; s

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Contents

Official Publication of the Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Volume 50 Spring 2010

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 Administrative Assistant Bernadette Cornelius Office Manager Marlene Bresee Part Time Assistant Karen Florey Editor Amy-Jo Hendrix, CPRP Send Articles to:ahendrix@viennava.gov or Amy-Jo 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.

Features

Departments

10 Celebrate the Big 400 in Hampton during VRPS Conference

5 2009 VRPS Board, Key Leaders and Staff

12 Members, Get Involved, and Be Our +1 13 Opportunities at the 2010 VRPS Annual Conference! 14 VRPS Registration 15 Hershey’s Track & Field Games 16 Basketball - Making a Difference During Economic Times

6 2009/10 Calendar of Events 8 Message from the President 9 Executive Director’s Message 19 New Kent Parks & Recreation 20 News From Norfolk 25 Volunteer Opportunities

22 “Recreational” Athletics: Let’s Keep it That Way! 23 Set Sail for a Healthy Hopewell 24 Senior Games Western Days

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 Societyis 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.

Spring 2010

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Virginia Senior Games

Gold medal Sponsors

Bronze medal Sponsor

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/0#,1$20(3#4$-+$50(60$7+8(97$-'

event Sponsors

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Spring 2010

VRPS Staff

NRPA Southern Region Rep

Enterprise Group Chairs

Resource Group Chairs

Service Area Chairs

Board of Directors

Executive Board

2010 VRPS Boards, Key Leaders & Staff 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 Aquatics Cultural Diversity Athletics Professional Education Seniors Outdoors Therapeutic Recreation Annual Conference Foundation Awards & Citations Hershey Track & Field LTI 2010 Virginia Senior Games Legislative Picnic December 10 December 10 December 10 Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Bernadette Cornelius Marlene P. Bresee

Lakita Frazer,CPRP Suffolk Parks & Rec. Darrell Crittendon City of Norfolk Rec., Parks & Open Space Brian Laws, CPRP Fairfax County Park Authority Ed Hamilton Roanoke College Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Virginia Rec. & Park Society Lakita Frazer,CPRP Suffolk Parks & Rec. Michael Morris Portsmouth Pks, Rec & Leisure Serv William (Bill) Sgrinia Danville Parks, Rec & Tourism Pamela Sheets, CPRP Shenandoah Co. Parks & Rec. Brian Laws, CPRP Fairfax County Park Authority Keith Rotzoll, CPRP Prince George Co. Parks & Rec. Michael Clark, CPRP, AFO Roanoke Parks & Rec. Darrell Crittendon City of Norfolk Rec., Parks & Open Space Art Thatcher, CPRP Hampton Parks & Rec. Ed Hamilton Roanoke College Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Virginia Rec. & Park Society Kimberly Turner, CTRS New Kent Co., Parks & Rec. DeRocke Croome City of Norfolk Rec., Parks & Open Space Cheri Danaher, CPRP Reston Community Center Bryan Price Danville Parks, Rec. & Tourism Ken Jacobsen Augusta Co. Parks & Rec. Ralph Baird, AFO Alexandria Rec., Parks & Cultural Affairs TBA Paul Wilmoth Chesterfield Co. Parks & Rec. Shannon Moore, CPRP Virginia Beach Parks & Rec. Lisa Cooke, CPRP Clarke Co. Parks & Rec. Shannon Martin Clarke Co. Parks & Rec. William (Bill) Sgrinia Danville Parks, Rec. & Tourism TBA Jim Wilson Hampton Parks & Rec. Bob Antozzi, CPRP Fredericksburg Pks, Rec. & Public Fac TBA Paul W. Berryman Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Sharon Entsminger, CPRP Chesterfield Co. Parks and Rec Andy Crane Henrico Division of Rec & Parks Art Thatcher, CPRP Hampton Parks & Recreation Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Virginia Recreation & Park Society John Carnifax, CPRP James City County Parks & Rec Phil Mease, CPRP James City County Parks & Rec J. David Hart, CPRP Pulaski Parks & Facilities Executive Director Administrative Assistant Office Manager

Board Liaisons Central Service Area Eastern Service Area Northern Service Area Southwestern Service Area Western Service Area Aquatics Athletics Cultural Diversity Outdoors Seniors

Keith Rotzoll Mike Morris Brian Laws Bill Sgrina/Michael Clark Pamela Sheets, CPRP Brian Laws Lakita Frazier/Michael Clark Darrell Crittendon Bill Sgrina/Michael Clark Keith Rotzoll

757-514-7251 757-441-2400 703-324-8564 540-375-2409 804-730-9447 757-514-7251 757-393-8481 434-799-5200 540-984-3030 703-324-8564 804-733-2646 540-853-1198 757-441-2400 757-727-6348 540-375-2409 804-730-9447 804-966-8501 757-441-5834 703-476-4500 434-797-8848 540-245-5727 703-385-0420

lfrazier@city.suffolk.va.us darrell.crittendon@norfolk.gov brian.laws@fairfaxcounty.gov hamilton@roanoke.edu jim@vrps.com lfrazier@city.suffolk.va.us morrism@portsmouthva.gov sgrinia@ci.danville.va.us psheets@shenandoahcounty.va.us brian.laws@fairfaxcounty.gov krotzoll@princegeorgeva.org michael.clark@roanokeva.gov darrell.crittendon@norfolk.gov athatcher@hampton.gov hamilton@roanoke.edu jim@vrps.com kcturner@co.newkent.state.va.us derocke.Croom@norfolk.gov Cheri.danaher@fairfaxcounty.gov pricebe@ci.danville.va.us kjacobsen@co.augusta.va.us ralph.baird@alexandriava.gov

804-748-1130 757-385-0420 540-955-5140 540-955-5143 434-799-5200

wilmothp@chesterfield.gov smoore@vbgov.com lcooke@clarkecounty.gov spepperb@yahoo.com sgrinia@ci.danville.va.us

757-727-6348 jwilson@hampton.gov 540-372-1088 rkantozzi@fredericksburgva.gov 757-496-6766 804-748-1126 804-501-5156 757-728-3220 804-730-9447 757-259-5361 757-259-4171 540-994-8624 804-730-9447 804-730-9447 804-730-9447

Therapeutic Recreation LTI Professional Education Virginia Senior Games Hershey Track & Field Legislation Awards & Citations Annual Conference â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;10 Foundation Management Conference â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;11

Spring 2010

pberryma@vbgov.com entsmingers@chesterfield.gov cra18@co.henrico.va.us athatcher@hampton.gov jim@vrps.com jcarnifax@james-city.va.us pmease@james-city.va.us dhart@pulaskitown.org jim@vrps.com berni@vrps.com marlene@vrps.com

Mike Morris Jim Stutts Jim Stutts Keith Rotzoll Lakita Frazier Art Thatcher Darrell Crittendon Art Thatcher Jim Stutts Jim Stutts Revised 2/8/10

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Calendar of Events march 2010

Revised 2/11/10

9 10

Northern Service Area Meeting Ticket Luncheon

Northern VA Regional Park Authority Belmont Recreation Center Henrico, VA

1 13 13 15 15 18-20

Central Service Area Quarterly Meeting Western Service Area & Senior Resource Group Workshop/ Meeting Northern Service Area Meeting May Issue of President’s Newsletter VRPS Board Meeting Leadership Training Institute –LTI 2010

Henrico Parks & Rec. 10 AM Augusta Co. Government Center, Verona, VA 10:30 AM-12:15 PM

April 2010

VRPS Calendar of Events… please check www.vrps.com for updated calendar

Virginia Senior Games Greater Richmond Area Northern Service Area Meeting Northern VA Regional Park Authority Summer Issue of Virginia Parks & Recreation Magazine Submission Deadline

TBA TBA

Northern Service Area Meeting Western Service Area Golf Dept. Challenge Outing

Northern VA Regional Park Authority Gypsy Hill Golf Course, Staunton

10 AM TBA

Northern Service Area Meeting VRPS Board Meeting August Issue of President’s Newsletter Senior Resource Group & Eastern Service Area Joint Workshop

Northern VA Regional Park Authority VRPS Central Office Submission Deadline TBA

10 AM 10 AM

Central Service Area Quarterly Meeting VRPS Central Office Northern Service Area Meeting Northern VA Regional Park Authority

10 AM 10 AM

10 AM

May 2010 june 2010

8 22

july 2010

13 15 15 23

Aug 2010

5 10

sept 2010

7 Western Service Area Meeting Shenandoah Co. Parks & Recreation 11-14 VRPS 56th Annual Conference Hampton 15 October Issue of President’s Newsletter Submission Deadline 15-17 National Playground Safety Institute (NPSI) Hampton

10 AM-12:30 PM TBA

12 15 15 21

Northern Service Area Meeting Northern VA Regional Park Authority Senior Resource Group Meeting Deep Run Recreation Center, Henrico, VA Fall Issue of Virginia Parks & Recreation Magazine Submission Deadline Western Service Area Meeting Harrisonburg Parks & Recreation

10 AM 11 AM

5 9 18

Senior Resource Group Workshop Northern Service Area Meeting VRPS Board Meeting

8:30 AM 10 AM 10 AM

2 10 14

Central Service Area Quarterly Meeting New Kent Co. Parks & Recreation TBA Senior Resource Group Meeting Augusta Co. Government Center, Verona, VA 11 AM Northern Service Area Meeting Northern VA Regional Park Authority 10 AM

Oct 2010

6-9 11 15

nov 2010

10 AM TBA

dec 2010

Northern VA Regional Park Authority Submission Deadline VRPS Central Office Wintergreen

10 AM 11 AM

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Spring 2010

Deep Run Recreation Center, Henrico, VA Northern VA Regional Park Authority VRPS Central Office

TBA

10 AM-12 PM

aNNOUNCING THE

2010 Virginia Senior Games MA Y 6 - 9 , 2 0 1 0 IN THE GREATER RICHMOND AREA

HOSTED BY:

Hanover County Parks & Recreation Department County of Henrico Division of Recreation & Parks Chesterfield County Parks & Recreation Department City of Richmond Parks, Recreation & Community Facilities New Kent County Parks & Recreation Prince George County Parks & Recreation Louisa County Parks & Recreation Goochland County Parks & Recreation Richmond Sports Backers Spring 2010

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

A message from the president

Celebrating the Future P e o p l e ,

P a r k s

a n d

P r o g r a m s

Lakita Fraser, CPRP

President Virginia Recreation & Park Society

As I start this year as your President, I approach this honor with enthusiasm and anticipation. This year’s annual conference will be held in Hampton, Virginia September 11 -14, 2010. Our theme “Celebrating People, Parks and Programs”, embodies my vision for this upcoming year.

People:

Our citizens and our members As parks and recreation professionals, it is imperative that we support each other through our professional organization, VRPS. Over the next year, I look forward to getting out and about this beautiful state and meeting as many of you as possible for two reasons. First, I want to know what VRPS can do for you. Second, I will be asking for your support through fundraising, hosting trainings, and donating to the Foundation.

ment, this year we are forming two additional resource groups: Park Services and Outdoor Programming. It is my goal to engage our park rangers, ground maintenance and outdoor program staff in our conferences and training opportunities.

Programs:

Our daily activities and special events. The Athletic Resource Group is up and running! I would like to take this time to thank to all those

sociation, there will be a track for our professionals that plan and implement special events. So as you see, by Celebrating People, Parks and Programs, we will connect all of our backgrounds, talents, and experiences that make up our profession. Lastly, it is imperative that we continue to recruit new members, retain the current, and reconnect with those, for whatever the reason, that are

...we will connect all of our backgrounds, talents, and experiences that make up our profession.

Parks:

Our parks and open spaces. As good stewards of our environ-

that have worked hard on this effort. I am counting on this group to spearhead opportunities that will be beneficial to our communities as well as our Society. At this year’s annual conference, in collaboration with the Virginia Festivals and Events As-

no longer participating. I look forward to serving you over this next year! “If bread is the first necessity of life, recreation is a close second.” Edward Bellamy, Writer (1850-1898)

Visit www.vrps.com or call VRPS Office at 804-730-9447 or email vrps@vrps.com for volunteer opportunities. 8

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Spring 2010

A message from the Executive Director

Call on a Friend

If you know anything about VRPS, then you will know that at any given point in time, we have many opportunities for support.

Associations by definition, serve as a place for those with a common intent to come together. Certainly now is the time for us to take advantage of our Association/Society and stick together as we navigate these challenging times.

This year, President Lakita Frazier and the Board of Directors are very eager to keep VRPS out front, and help our members find ways to look out for each other. If you know anything about VRPS, then you will know that at any given point in time, we have many opportunities for support. The Leadership Orientation for all Society Leaders was held on January 27 at the Augusta County Parks and Recreation Office in Verona. The Strategic Planning Team also met on this same day. If you have any questions, or thoughts about participating in any VRPS services, be sure and contact any Board member or leader. Each has a good understanding of the many activities and opportunities available this year. (See 2010 Boards, Key Leaders & Staff list in this issue.)

For example: n President Lakita Frazier will host a summit in March so that Directors and Administrators will have an opportunity to discuss the budget challenges. n The Leadership Training Institute, April 18 – 20 at Wintergreen, provides exceptional training and networking for the up and com-

ing; and there is no better time to sharpen your skills and expand your network than NOW! n The Annual Conference committee, chaired by Jim Wilson of Hampton, is extending the reach to offer a wide variety of sessions at the September 11 – 14 Conference. Education tracks will include Festivals and Events, Athletics, Outdoor Recreation, Administration/Management, Aquatics, Citizens/Board Members, Natural Resources, Fitness/Wellness, Park/Facility Operation, Programmers, Students, Therapeutic Recreation and Urban Forestry. The Conference will be scheduled to attract daily visitors, as well as a full three day registration. The Conference Committee is working hard to exceed your expectations. Again, there is no better time than now to sharpen your skills and expand your network! Thanks to many loyal and enthusiastic members, VRPS is reaching out to professionals to encourage networking, problem solving and provide services. They include Senior Centers, Area Agencies on Aging, Outdoor Recreation professionals, Athletics, Cultural Diversity, Festivals and Events, Therapeutic, Front Line Staff, Parks Staff and Urban Forestry.

WOW!

All of this is happening NOW and MORE. The VRPS Board approved funds to introduce a “new and improved” website for VRPS. We expect the kick-off to occur in March. As of this writing, we are in the transition phase, but you should begin to see improvements soon, including an on-line Membership Directory, New Forums for communication, Social Networking, and many new features that are still being developed. It’s a significant investment, but a wise one. We understand that your time is scarce, but your need to stay connected is vital. The new website should provide you with this opportunity and more. Don’t forget to contact your Service Area Chair, Resource Group Chair, Committee Chair, any Board Member or Central Office. You should expect a warm reception and an offer to lead a hand. What else would you expect from a friend!

Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Executive Director

Spring 2010

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Celebrate the BIG 400 in Hampton during VRPS Conference

ampton, Virginia will welcome VRPS this September in grand fashion as the city celebrates its 400th Anniversary with events, exhibits and dedicated legacy projects. Not only is the planned conference shaping up to be stellar, the meeting falls over one of the city’s largest annual festivals and a 400th Anniversary Featured Event, Hampton Bay Days. What this means to you, the attendee, is exceptional professional development, networking with your recreation peers and absolutely incredible entertainment during your down time. Hampton Bay Days annually draws over a quarter of a million fun seekers. The free event, one of the largest familyfriendly festivals on the entire East Coast, will showcase music by national recording artists. In addition to great musical entertainment, the festival presents over 75 merchandise and craft vendors, plus a Classic and Custom Car & Motorcycle Show. During the festival weekend, over 30 food vendors will also be available throughout the downtown area. Those looking for more conventional dining op10

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Hampton Bay Days annually draws over a quarter of a million fun seekers. This free event is one of the largest familyfriendly festivals on the entire East Coast. tions can choose one of the many eclectic restaurants that line historic Queens Way. Jamestown Settlement’s GODSPEED, a re-creation of one of the three ships that brought America’s first permanent English colonists to Virginia, will dock in downtown during festival. The vessel will highlight Hampton’s history as a colonial seaport and fishing village, with a strong educational focus on man’s interaction with the ecology of the Bay.

Spring 2010

Hampton Bay Days core mission is environmental education. The “Kid’s Play & Learn About The Bay Education Area” offers visitors a wide variety of children’s entertainment, hands-on activities and interactive presentations that promote the conservation of the Chesapeake Bay and its natural resources and history. This year world-renowned painter, sculptor, photographer, writer, SCUBA diver, and marine life conservationist, WYLAND will design the 28th annual Hampton Bay Days commemorative poster and will present his interactive Wyland Mobile Center which helps to inform children on how pollution affects our water. Other weekend activities include the Abbitt Realty Bay Days 10K race and a fireworks display at 10:00 p.m. on Saturday evening. While you are here, visit the Virginia Air & Space Center, visitor center for NASA Langley and Langley Air Force Base, and enjoy the suspended air and space craft and 3-D IMAX films. St. John’s Episcopal Church, the fourth site of worship of Elizabeth City parish which also dates to 1610, commemorates its anniversary this year as

well. St. John’s invites you to visit, tour the church and sign their guest registry. There are dedicated exhibits at Hampton’s cultural and fine arts attractions that recognize the invaluable contributions of the arts and photography to Hampton society. From snapshots of everyday life, to paintings and multimedia interpretations of the four centuries’ most pivotal events, Hampton lifestyle during eras in the city’s history will be captured. These exhibits include the Cheyne Photography Exhibit at Hampton History Museum, “The City of Hampton: Through the Lens of Reuben V. Burrell and James Van Der Zee” at Hampton University Museum and “A Place Very Pleasant to Inhabit” at the Charles H. Taylor Art Center. Hampton’s downtown waterfront district encompasses the site of the original 17th century seaport that served as portof-entry for commercial vessels from Europe, Africa and the Caribbean. Today, downtown Hampton is enhanced with cobblestone streets lined with red brick sidewalks, crepe myrtle trees and eclectic shops and eateries. It is dotted with restaurants, pubs, art galleries, shops, marinas and waterfront parks. Inviting attractions like the Hampton Carousel, Hampton History Museum, Hampton University, Fort Monroe, Miss Hampton II harbor tours and Chesapeake Bay beaches draw visitors year-round. The Hampton Roads Convention Center and our host hotels are located in the Col-

Springhill Suites

iseum Central district. Within walking distance you may explore Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World and the surrounding restaurants at the Power Plant of Hampton Roads. Nearby, Peninsula Town Center, which will officially open its doors in Hampton this April, also presents national favorites and restaurants unique in Southeastern Virginia.

$80 – single/double/triple/ quad 1997 Power Plant Pkwy. Includes deluxe continental breakfast. Hampton, VA 23666 Group Code: VPR • (757) 310-6333

Comfort Inn Hampton

$72 – single/double 1916 Coliseum Drive Includes deluxe

Take time to register for the conference and reserve your hotel accommodations today. The following Hampton lodging properties will extend special rates to VRPS attendees.

Courtyard Hampton

$80 – single/ double 1917 Coliseum Drive 2nd breakfast in same room $7.50. Hampton, VA 23666 • (757) 838-3300

Hilton Garden Inn

$80 – single/double/triple/quad 1999 Power Plant Pkwy. Complimentary breakfast for up to two guests per room. Hampton, VA 23666 Group Code: VAPARK • (757) 310-6323

continental breakfast Hampton, VA 23666 • (757) 827-5052 The reservation cut off is Friday, August 20, 2010 or when block is full. Courtyard Hampton, Springhill Suites and Comfort Inn Hampton also have a block of rooms for NPSI.

Spring 2010

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Members, Get Involved, and Be Our +1!

New Recruitment Programs Offered for This Year’s Annual Conference Exhibit Hall

RPS members this year have a new, exciting opportunity to help fill the exhibit hall with new products and services while competing for special prizes and recognition! We’re hoping you’ll be able to help us this year by identifying potential sponsors and exhibitors for the 2010 Annual Conference–we want to fill the exhibit hall with as many new and interesting exhibits as possible.

Every member who sends in contact information for potential sponsors or exhibitors (by July 1) will have their name listed in the “Members +1” section of the weekly VRPS e-Update. Once you’re part of the “+1 Team,” if any of your contacts participate in the 2010 Annual Conference as a signed exhibitor or sponsor then your name will be entered once for each of them into a drawing for $100 in “VRPS Bucks,” to be awarded during the exhibit hall opening reception. “VRPS Bucks” can be used anytime before June 30, 2011 to pay for conference fees, VRPS merchandise, toward membership renewal, ticketed conference events–anything sold by VRPS! You need not contact the potential exhibitor yourself–in fact, we don’t want you to do that. Just send in the name of the business, the contact name and e-mail for that business, and their phone number and address. Be sure to include your name and contact information so we can give credit where credit is due! You can e-mail the information directly mnealer@nngov.com, fax it to (757) 926-1460, or mail it to Exhibits & Sponsorship Committee, Attention: J. Michael Nealer, c/o Newport News Parks, Recreation & Tourism, 700 Town Center Drive, Suite 320, Newport News, VA 23606. Signed exhibitors will also have the opportunity this year to recruit fellow exhibitors for BIG discounts, and several booth options will be offered to vendors to help enhance booth visibility–check out the program details at www.vrps.com. This is a fabulous year to become one of our VRPS partners, and it’s a great way for members to get involved by helping produce one of the most important parts of the Annual Conference. Seeyou there, and happy recruiting! 12

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Spring 2010

Opportunities at the 2010 VRPS Annual Conference! CEU Session Speakers: Session Proposal Forms – available now. Submission Deadline is February 19, 2010. Must meet CEU criteria. Contact Kathy Williams at kdwillia@vbgov.gov or Katey Legg at klegg@gloucesterva.info

Volunteers: Volunteers are needed in a variety of areas to include: Room Hosts, CEU monitors, Special Events & General. Contact Nicole Dennis at ndennis@hampton.gov 757-896-4696.

Daily Morning Workout – walk, swim & workout all in one place – The Hampton Teen Center The Virginia Festival & Events Association (VFEA) will be providing a great deal of insight and information to be included in the Annual Conference this year. VFEA will have representatives on the Conference Committee to help integrate their topics into the VRPS Annual Conference educational programming.

Become a fan of VRPS: Virginia Recreation & Park Society on Facebook! Conference information will be posted beginning

Leadership Training Institute April 18-20, 2010 Wintergreen Resort

2010 Theme: Changing Views Early Bird Rates: (deadline Jan. 31, 2010) VRPS Member $525 $575 Non-Member Standard Rate: (Feb. 2nd—Mar. 31, 2010) VRPS Member $550 $600 Non-Member Registration includes lodging, CEU’s, all meals except Monday Lunch, educational sessions and graduation certificate. There are Undergraduate and Graduate curriculums offered. Scholarships are available.

Application is available at www.vrps.com Further details on applying, contact: Tameka Dillard @ 757-514-7256, tdillard@city.suffolk.va.us Bryan Price @ 434-797-8848, pricebe@ci.danville.va.us Shawn Hopson @ 757-385-2080,shopson@vbgov.com

in March.

Check it out!

"Virginia's Only Firework Production Company" Dominion Fireworks, Inc. P.O. Box 3015 Petersburg, Virginia 23805 www.dominionfireworks.com EMAIL : dominionfire@aol.com Telephone: 877.822.7236

Spring 2010

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Spring 2010

Hersheyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Track & Field Games This process

or the 33rd year Virginia Recreation and Parks Society is a proud supporter of this great national program for youth. Through events held at the local, district, and state levels boys and girls age 9-14 compete in various running and field events to hopefully qualify for an all expenses paid four day experience in Hershey, Pa.

begins for them This process begins for them by having the opportunity to compete at a local meet held opportunity to within our state. This is where we need your support by hosting a local meet in your comcompete at a munity this spring. If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hosted a local meet held meet in the past, and would like to get inwithin our state. volved, then please contact the Virginia State Chair for more information. As the State This is where Chair, Paul Berryman, a Recreation Specialist with the City of Virginia Beach Parks and we need your Recreation, is ready to assist you in getting started. Paul can be reached at pberryma@vbsupport... gov.com or contact him at (757)496-6766.

by having the

Spring 2010

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Basketball

Making a Difference During Economic Times By Frank A. Davis

Photos by Frank A. Davis Tony Smith #5 attempts shot under the tough defense of the Uptown team 16 Virginia Recreation & Park Society n Spring 2010

Tony Smith #5 lays up a shot against Mike Ricks #44

Franklin Department of Parks & Recreation basketball leagues have always been a big hit for this small city located in the Hampton Roads area. Teams from Franklin, Southampton County, Emporia, Suffolk and even down the road from North Carolina have battled yearly in the department’s basketball center at the General Vaughn National Guard Armory. Leagues are played during the winter and the most popular summer league. Teams have been sponsored by businesses, local industries, funeral homes, churches and the major employer of the area, International Paper. Franklin like the rest of the country is going through tough times with budget cuts, layoffs and the news that International Paper was shutting down its Franklin Mill by the end of March 2010 and eliminate 1,100 jobs. Added to that, the armory due to budget cuts with the State of Virginia was not able to replace a furnace which has not worked for two years. The athletic staff was able to garner electric heaters to knock the chill of the many cold nights during the heart of basketball season. But with all of that, rec basketball is still making a difference in the city that has had in the past six years, two AAA state championship football teams. Roger Owens an employee of I.P. has been a player/ coach in the rec league for 34 years. Even though he is slated to lose his job on 31 March, Owens still coaches his team the Superstars. “ Coaching basketball gives me an outlet and it’s something that I enjoy”, remarked Owens. Strangely upon examining the rooster of the Superstars they live up to their name. Four players are former professional basketball players that now live in the Franklin area. Lamont Strothers was drafted in the second round of the NBA draft by the Golden State Warriors. He has also played for the Portland Trail Blazers and the Dal-

the basketball greats of Superstars and turn out to watch the action. Rec’ league basketball leagues are also popular with the youth teams that also play at the armory. The department has a monopoly on basketball as it also cosponsors a league at the J.P.King Middle School with the athletic staff of the school. The department has waived the entrance fee for youth that may have a parent that works at International Paper or others that met low income requirements.

But with all of that, rec basketball is still making a difference in the city that has had in the past six years, two AAA state championship football teams. las Mavericks. Mike Britt was drafted in the second round of the NBA draft by the Washington Bullets (now Wizards) in 1983. Tony Smith played professional overseas for 10 years mostly in Spain. Lastly, Derrick Bryant played 10 years in Europe.

Staff of the department are quick to admit that the participation of teams and the large number of basketball fans are making a difference for this area that is faced with uncertainty with the loss of jobs that can tickle into another 2,200 when added mill suppliers and other businesses in the area. Franklin has bounced back before after the September 1999 devastation of Hurricane Floyd which flood waters stood 4 to 8 feet deep in areas of downtown Franklin and many residential communities in the city and surrounding areas. The Ethnic Minority Section (now Cultural Diversity Resource Group) of VRPS contributed money that was given to four families in the Franklin area that homes went under the water. Franklin also bounced back after Hurricane Isabel in September of 2003 and the 2006 nor’easter which also flooded the city again.

As the final horn sounds in all basketball games for both youth & adult leagues, the teams form lines to congratulate the winners. But really, everyone in the Franklin area are winners because this community has done it before and will do it again as Local basketball fans pack the armory it weathers another different storm of life. each week to see the Superstars and the Bonding together for a moment to enjoy other leagues teams consisting of want to the game and forget about the outside bee’s take their shots at knocking off the problems of today. Basketball, Making super stacked team of former professional a Difference. players.Many of the fans are familiar with Spring 2010 n Virginia Recreation & Park Society 17

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ises.

Celebrating a Decade of Memories

New Kent Parks and Recreation opened its first Community park in 2007. The park has a regulation Baseball/Softball field, playground, pavilion, paved ½ mile walking path, basketball court and open space.

ew Kent Parks and Recreation is excited to engage the community in their celebration of ten years of service. In 2000, New Kent County hired its first Parks and Recreation Director, Marci Durrer. Marci started our “scrapbook” for quality recreation and parks in the County. Charles Hester continued to add “snapshots.” Now, the memories continue. New Kent Parks and Recreation welcomed traditions and trends over the last decade as it was established. The Department was developed, programs and events were introduced, the first park was built, and

more! With the transition in the current economy, the increase of childhood obesity, the need to create sustainable environments, increased stress levels, and a need to foster family relationships – New Kent Parks and Recreation will reposition for the future. The Department has pledged to engage their community, increase awareness of the benefits of Parks and Recreation, and celebrate service thus far. New Kent Parks and Recreation will host a birthday celebration in conjunction with the 4th Annual Egg Hunt in March, QuinNew Kent Parks and Recreation provides traditional adult leagues, like basketball, softball. In ton Community 2007, athletes of all levels came together for a Park. Dodgeball League.

Join the celebration - whether your Department is new or been around for fifty years – take time to make your own Parks and Recreation Memories!

New Kent Parks and Recreation started a Youth Sports Expo in 2007. This is an annual event that showcases youth sports and athletics in the County. Parks and Recreation provides basketball, soccer, horseback riding, gymnastics and more! For more information about New Kent Parks and Recreation 2010: Celebrating a Decade of Memories, contact (804) 966-8502 or www.co.new-kent.state.va.us/parks

New Kent Parks and Recreation provides activities for toddlers through senior adults. Senior adult activities include day trips, Lunch and Learns, special events, and more!

Spring 2010

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

News From Norfolk Lambert’s Point Community Center opened February 10

he Norfolk Department of Recreation, Parks & Open Space celebrated the grand opening of the new Lambert’s Point Community Center on February 10. Following the dedication program and ribboncutting, the facility remained open until 8:30 p.m. Refreshments were served, and other programming and activities were available. The center is located at 1251 W. 42nd St. The brand-new 24,000 sq ft, $7.5 million com-

munity center is the first City of Norfolk building that was constructed according to LEED standards. Recyclable materials were used where feasible, as well as energy-efficient roofing, windows, insulation and mechanical and HVAC systems. Amenities include: n 25-ft rock climbing wall n Ad ve n t u re room with indoor ropes course

n Art studio n Game room n Fitness room n Computer lab n Meeting rooms with commercial kitchen n Gymnasium with regulation-sized basketball court and men's & women's locker rooms n Rain garden bio-filtration system n 77 on-site parking spaces n Located on HRT public transportation route

Bureau of Parks & Urban Forestry records long hours during nor’easter clean-up

ince the November 12-13 nor’easter, the Department of Recreation, Parks & Open Space’s Bureau of Parks & Urban Forestry crews have logged 3,000+ hours in the clean-up effort, dealing with downed trees and debris across the city. At peak, the bureau had nearly 60 chainsaws on the street to remove obstructions and perform other clean-up duties. Over 560 tree-related calls were taken and investigated by the bureau. This total includes 296 confirmed fallen trees; 17 fallen or hanging large limbs; 11 split trees; 35 “leaners” in imminent danger of falling on homes or power lines; and 30 private trees cleared from rights-of-way. 20

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Spring 2010

Norfolk receives positive results on 2009 Urban Tree Canopy report

his year, the City of Norfolk took part in a grant-based Urban Tree Canopy (UTC) study through the Virginia Department of Forestry, in partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Program. The study combined aerial photography with geographical informational systems (GIS) technology to obtain the current percentage of tree canopy coverage within Norfolkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s city limits. UTC is defined as the layer of leaves, branches, and stems of trees that cover the ground when viewed from above. Urban tree canopy provides many benefits to communities, including improving water quality, conserving energy, lowering city temperatures, reducing air pollution, enhancing property values, providing wildlife habitat, facilitating social and educational opportunities, and providing aesthetic benefits.

American Forests, a nonprofit conservation organization that aims to protect, restore and enhance the capitol of trees and forests, advocates that U.S. cities east of the Mississippi River should have 40% tree coverage. Norfolkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s UTC is 33%.

This study provides impetus for the City of Norfolk to improve its current canopy before the next reporting opportunity in five years. The full report is available at www.norfolk. gov/rpos/parksandurban.asp.

Spring 2010

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

“Recreational” Athletics: By Mark Moore, CPRP Botetourt County Parks, -Recreation and Tourism

hether it’s decreasing or eliminating the minimum number of plays or minutes each child must play, or increasing base or pitching distances, the push has been felt in many localities to absorb some of the traits of travel sports into recreational sports. Some will say, “We’re losing our best players to travel sports.” While no program wants to lose children to the “competition,” are travel sports really direct competition to recreational sports? Webster’s Dictionary defines competition as “rivalry between two or more persons or groups for an object desired in common.” While both programs offer the opportunity to play the sport, travel and recreation sports have very little in common; they differ greatly with how the teams are formed, player selection, cost and travel involved, to name a few. With the increase in the number of travel teams over the years, a new travel team seems to pop up every time a parent gets disgruntled with his or her current travel team. Could it be that the influx in the number of travel teams has actually made recreational sports geared more for the recreational player? With the more talented players migrating from recreation to travel sports, recreational leagues can focus on providing an all-inclusive athletic program that appeals to all members of the community. For the children that don’t aspire to play travel sports and may not even aspire to play for the local middle or high school team, recreational sports provides them an opportunity to experience the thrill of competition, the enjoyment of being part

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

of a team and the ability to learn the fundamentals of a sport. Many recreation departments across the state also deal with the challenge, “We are grooming these children to play for our middle school or high school team.” While there is benefit in this, relative to the number of children in many departments’ athletics program that go on to play for school teams, it shouldn’t be the main focus. Take for example Botetourt, Virginia. Of the nearly 900 children in their youth basketball program, less than 160 play on school teams. That is less than 20% that go on to play school basketball, which means more than 80% of their children do not go on to play for their school once their recreation career is over.

Few can question the important role that sports can play in a child’s development.

Spring 2010

Few can question the important role that sports can play in a child’s development. Children learn a multitude of important lessons through sports that are basic to leading productive adult lives in our society. Sports provide an ideal forum to teach such valuable fundamentals as ethics, abiding by the rules, winning and losing with grace, coping with success and failure, respecting authority figures, always striving to do your best, etc. These traits provide the building blocks that help young citizens of our communities become well-balanced adults. A study conducted by Hardiness Research of Wyoming found that by a 2:1 ratio for boys and a 3:1 ratio for girls, those who participate in sports perform better in school, do not drop out, and have a better chance to attend and graduate from college.

Set Sail for a Healthy Hopewell

he John Randolph Foundation is kicking off a wellness initiative for Hopewell. One part of the initiative is the addition of new exercise equipment that has been added in two rooms at the Community Center that have been converted for this equipment. The New Beginnings Program, geared toward people with chronic diseases, will have a 12 week program guiding them through practicing healthy eating and exercising. The Biggest Winner Challenge, which can be an individual or team challenge, will donate $1 for every pound lost and $1 for every hour of exercise completed by registered participants, up to $10,000. The great thing is that $5000 will be donated to Recreation and

Parks and the other $5000 will be donated to Hopewell Schools from the John Randolph Foundation. The John Randolph Foundation will also have various topics for a healthier you that will be held at the John Randolph Foundation building located at 112 N. Main Street here in Hopewell. Please go to this website to register and see more information: www.discoverhealthyu.com.

Spring 2010

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Spring 2010

Volunteer Opportunities

We could all benefit from your time, talents and skills!

VRPS is a membership-based organization dependent on active members to carry out the work of the organization. VRPS is as good as those committed to its success. Please consider contributing your time and talents, because the good news is you’ll meet dynamic people, enjoy a sense of accomplishment and grow stronger as a profession. Education

Certification Board Chair, Shannon Moore, CPRP, Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation 757-385-0420, or smoore@vbgov.com • Provide workshop that could be offered at different locations around the state. • Host (provide site) for statewide workshop or activity • Assist with creation of CEU (Continuing Education Units) applications for workshops

Virginia Senior Games

Virginia Senior Games Chairman, Andy Crane, Division of Recreation & Parks Henrico County 804-501-5156, or cra18@co.henrico.va.us • Assist during the event • Plan a mini event in your area to prepare athletes and heighten interest in the Virginia senior games • Advertise event in your area and recruit seniors to attend the games • Host a trip to bring seniors to the Games

VRPS Magazine

• Editor: Amy-Jo Hendrix, CPRP, Town of Vienna Parks & Recreation 703255-6357, ahendrix@viennava.gov • Assist in layout, design and editing of magazine • Write articles and submit for consideration for magazine • Submit best practices, great tips and program ideas to be shared through magazine • Take pictures at VRPS events and submit for magazine • Send interesting pictures of your successful events for magazine

Newsletter

Contact Lakita Frazier, CPRP, Suffolk Parks, Recreation (757) 514-7251 or Lfrazier@city.suffolkva.gov • Write articles and submit for consideration for newsletter • Take pictures at VRPS events and submit for newsletter • Send interesting pictures of your successful events for newsletter • Sponsor production and mailing of a newsletter at $600

WEB-SITE/E-update

Contact: Bernadette Cornelius at berni@ vrps.com, or 804-730-9447 • Assist with updating web-site • Take pictures at VRPS events and submit for web-site • Send interesting pictures of your successful events for web-site

Membership

Contact Mike Morris, Portsmouth Parks, Recreation & Leisure Services (757) 393-8481 or morrism@portsmouthva.gov • Volunteer to work with Membership and Orientation Committee • Assist by recruiting new members • Assist with orientation of new members by making welcome calls to new members and seeing if they have questions and a particular area in which they’d like to get involved.

Service Areas/Resource Groups/ Enterprise Groups

Contact: Your Service Area Chair, Resource Group Chair or Enterprise Group Chair from the 2010 Boards, Key Leaders and Staff list on page 5 • Assist with administrative tasks or publicity as needed • Assist with educational, special events or

fundraising • Assist with whatever special project they are working on

Hershey Track and Field

Contact: Paul Berryman, Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation 757-496-6766, or pberryma@vbgov. com • S erve on state committee or assist with next year’s meet • Assist local area with hosting local and regional Hershey Track and Field meets • Publicize and promote local meet in your area

Legislation

Contact: Art Thatcher, CPRP, Hampton Parks & Recreation 757-728-3220 or athatcher@hampton.gov •A ssist with annual planning and implementation of legislative float trip • Contact your representative regarding issues that affect our society

Member Ticket Program

Contact: Marlene Bresee at marlene@vrps.com or 804-730-9447 •C oordinate ticket program for your department (if your department participates) • Advertise ticket program to your local community groups

Miscellaneous Opportunities

Visit www.vrps.com or call VRPS Office at 804-730-9447 or email vrps@vrps.com • If you work or live near the VRPS office, please call and see if they have a special project in which you can help.

Spring 2010

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Spring 2010

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Find out how FieldTurf can make your investment pay off. For more information, details or studies please contact us at:

(800) 724-2969 info@fieldturf.com www.fieldturf.com Spring 2010

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

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

Spring SavingS DayS TickeTS! April 17, 18, 24, 25, May 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30, 31 Only $2900 per person (ages 3 & above)

park & recreaTiOn DayS TickeTS! Valid July 2 through August 6 Only $2900 per person (ages 3 & above) For additional information contact: The Virginia Recreation and Park Society at 804-730-9447. WWW.vrpS.cOM