February 2017 VRPS Magazine by Jim Stutts

Virginia Parks & Recreation

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE VIRGINIA RECREATION & PARK SOCIETY n WINTER 2017

The Town of Wythevilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Crystal Springs Recreation Area

WINTER 2017

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Virginia Parks & Recreation

WINTER 2017 • FEATURES & DEPARTMENTS

Official Publication of the Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Management Conference 2017

Volume 72 WINTER 2017

Message from the President

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

Making the Connection

2017 VRPS Boards, Key Leaders and Staff

VRPS Winter/Spring 2017 Calendar of Events

Management Conference

I Choose Fun!

10 News from Reston

A Successful Summer Means to Start Planning Now Member Profile: Laura Cutrona

News from Danville

Danville Parks and Recreation Set to Launch Children’s Book — “The Dan River Twins”

News from Loudoun

Best Camp Ever

Member Profile: Brandon Wood

Send Articles to: ahendrix@viennava.gov or AmyJo Hendrix, CPRP, Town of Vienna Parks and Recreation, 120 Cherry St. SE, Vienna, VA 22180

News from LTI

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.

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.

LTI! Do you know what these three letters stand for?

News from Norfolk

The Norfolk Boxing Center is a Total Knock Out!

20 News from Norfolk

Norfolk Helping Kids Get Out and Play this Summer!

22 News from Herndon

Member Profile: John Walsh

26 Message from the SRG Chair

Karen Brutsché, Reston Community Center

26 News from Northern Service Area

Northern Service Area Winter Social

ABOUT THE COVER The Town of Wytheville’s Crystal Springs Recreation Area is 1800 acres that were once purchased to supply the town with water by a reservoir located on the property. With the completion of the Boundary Trail, a grant-funded project to construct a 9-mile loop according to International Mountain Biking Association’s (IMBA) standards to build a sustainable trail with low maintenance, Wytheville is able to offer users more opportunities to spend time outdoors, live healthier lifestyles, and take advantage of new outdoor recreation opportunities. Before the project, only 10 percent of the property was developed for public use. The Boundary Trail has opened 65 percent more of the property to backpacking and advanced mountain biking. Pre-existing resources with minimal disturbances to the surrounding environment were used to build all of the structures. Bridges were made out of natural material, and all rock was native to the area. The trail flow was designed to include several switchbacks to maintain an appropriate and sustainable trail grade. The Town of Wytheville is fortunate to have this area for participants to get unplugged and get outside while learning about opportunities for exercise and recreation.

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Virginia Recreation & Park Society

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Making the Connection Welcome to 2017!

LaTanya Turner

President, Virginia Recreation & Park Society

am honored and excited to be serving as your President this year. Since the moment I was hired as a Jr. Counselor (just a few years ago) I have been passionate about recreation. There was never a question about joining VRPS because I always knew that it was extremely important to support our Society. On the surface, because it gives us a collective voice, a cape wearing organization that stands up for our profession … but dig a little deeper and you’ll see that most of our reasons for being involved aren’t that different. My participation with VRPS means a great deal to me. I have been able to network with professionals from all over the state. I have been able to expand my knowledge of subjects in my field, through workshops and conferences. Be mentored by industry leaders, and become a mentor to new professionals. I have had the opportunity to further community interests through programs like the Virginia Senior Games and the Virginia Health Department’s Tobacco Use Cessation initiative.

See? We have shared experiences, a connection.

and I hope to get to an area near you, to hear your concerns and share our good news! Ensure VRPS remains on secure financial footing – your Board will be working diligently to check into all the options that will keep us viable, with additional trainings and a review of the current fee structure for the organization. Increase Membership – we will continue to “tell our story” and use our collective voice to push our field further by tapping into our new professionals and student population. We have the best and the brightest right here and we want them to stay and become Recreation Specialists, Operations Managers, Outdoor Professionals, Directors, Planners, Parks & Natural Resource stewards, our newest members are right here, and we want to serve them as well.

The Board of Directors held its first meeting on Jan 19th and we are ready to get to work! During the “Roadmap for the Future” you gave us your thoughts and suggestions about how we can better serve you and we listened! Presidents Marcy Durrer and Margaret Thorne have paved the way for the continuation of the initiatives. Enhanced perceived membership value – We discussed a host of new ideas to include new Interest Groups and new one day trainings, also new ways that we can connect the areas without taking a full day out of your already busy schedule. There will be more to come on this but know that we want you to enjoy the added value. Increased Member Satisfaction – Each piece of the Roadmap supplements another piece. Your satisfaction with your opportunities both personal and professional will be addressed in all the areas. I have started attending meetings around the state

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Virginia Recreation & Park Society

As a Society I hope that you continue to make these connections that will strengthen us, and I will connect with you soon! LaTanya Turner

2017 VRPS BOARDS KEY LEADERS & STAFF EXECUTIVE BOARD President Vice President Treasurer Lay Member Executive Director

LaTanya Turner, CPRP Kirk Kincannon, CPRP Aaron Reidmiller, CPRP Rita Miller Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Vice President Treasurer Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Lay Member Executive Director

LaTanya Turner, CPRP Kirk Kincannon, CPRP Aaron Reidmiller, CPRP Blythe Russian Bill Sgrinia Doug Blount Arlana Fauntleroy, CPRP Jane Shelhorse Margaret Thorne Rita Miller Jim Stutts, CAE, CPRP

SERVICE AREA CHAIRS Central Eastern Northern Western

Heather Grubb Emily Upton Kat Fish Ben Stine

RESOURCE GROUP CHAIRS Aquatics Seniors Park Operations

Willa Whitacre, AFO Karen Brutsche, CPRP Dan Smith, CPRP Marlie Smith

ENTERPRISE GROUP CHAIRS

Isle of Wight Parks & Recreation Fairfax County Park Authority Hopewell Recreation & Parks Virginia Department of Health Virginia Recreation & Park Society

757-357-5951 703-324-8584 804-541-2353 804-864-7897 804-730-9447

lturner@isleofwightus.net kirk.kincannon@fairfaxcounty.gov areidmiller@hopewellva.gov rita.miller@vdh.virginia.gov jim@vrps.com

Isle of Wight Parks & Recreation Fairfax County Park Authority Hopewell Recreation & Parks NOVA Parks Danville Parks, Recreation & Tourism Roanoke Co. Parks, Recreation & Tourism James City Co. Parks & Recreation Fredericksburg Pks, Rec & Public Facilities City of Portsmouth Virginia Department of Health Virginia Recreation & Park Society

757-357-5951 703-324-8584 804-541-2353 703-359-4624 x221 434-799-5200 540-387-6061 757-259-5377 540-372-1086 (209) 757-393-5143 x 4264 804-864-7897 804-730-9447

lturner@isleofwightus.net kirk.kincannon@fairfaxcounty.gov areidmiller@hopewellva.gov brussian@nvrpa.org sgrinia@ci.danville.va.us dblount@roanokecountyva.gov arlana.fauntleroy@jamescitycountyva.gov jcshelhorse@fredericksbugva.gov thornem@portsmouthva.gov rita.miller@vdh.virginia.gov jim@vrps.com

Henrico Division of Recreation and Parks Suffolk Parks and Recreation Prince William Parks and Recreation Shenandoah County Parks and Recreation

804-652-1422 757-514-7268 703-670-7112 (232) 540-459-6777

gru16@henrico.us eupton@suffolkva.us kfish@pwcgov.org bstine@shenandoahcountyva.us

Reston Association 703-435-6532 Reston Community Center 703-980-2046 Hanover County Parks & Recreation 804-365-4693 Richmond Parks, Rec & Comm. Facilities

willa@reston.org karen.brutsche@fairfaxcounty.gov dcsmith@hanovercounty.gov marlaine.smith@richmondgov.com

Annual Conference 2017 Annual Conference 2018 Foundation Awards & Citations LTI 2018 Management Conference 2017 Professional Education Virginia Senior Games Legislative Magazine Editor Pres. Newsletter Editor Webinar Chair

Sunny Deming Nicole Dennis Neil Luther Allison Buschy Greg Sager Sandy Kellogg Jason Bookheimer, CPRP Kat Fish Amy Woodson Lakita Watson, CPRP Mark Furlo, CPRP Shannon Moore, CPRP Andy Crane Heather Grubb Art Thatcher, CPRP, AFO, MPA Amy-Jo Hendrix, CPRP Marcy Durrer, CPRP Janit Llewellyn

Hampton Parks and Recreation Hampton Parks and Recreation Henrico Division of Recreation and Parks Henrico Division of Recreation and Parks Hanover County Parks & Recreation Fairfax County Park Authority Danville Parks and Recreation Prince William Parks and Recreation Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Suffolk Parks & Recreation Portsmouth Parks, Rec & Leisure Services Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Henrico Division of Recreation and Parks Henrico Division of Recreation and Parks GreenPlay LLC Vienna Parks & Recreation Hanover County Parks & Recreation Allen VA Dept of Conservation & Recreation

757-727-6348 757-727-6648 804-501-5119 804-501-7275 804-365-4690 703-324-9205 434-799-5200 703-670-7112 (232) 757-385-0415 757-514-7251 757-393-8481 757-385-0420 804-652-1407 804-652-1422 757-592-3103 703-255-6357 804-365-4697 804-786-0887

sdeming@ymail.com ndennis@hampton.gov lut08@henrico.us bus11@henrico.us rgsager@hanovercounty.gov sandra.kellogg@fairfaxcounty.gov bookhjl@danvilleva.gov kfish@pwcgov.org awoodson@vbgov.com lwatson@suffolkva.us furlom@portsmouthva.gov smoore@vbgov.com cra18@henrico.us gru16@henrico.us artt@greenplayllc.com ahendrix@viennava.gov mgdurrer@hanovercounty.gov Janit.Llewellyn@dcr.virginia.gov

VRPS STAFF

Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Lori Haislip Nancy Turnage

CEO Administrative Assistant Member Services Coordinator

804-730-9447 804-730-9447 804-730-9447

jim@vrps.com lori@vrps.com nancy@vrps.com

BOARD LIAISONS EVENTS

2018 Leadership Training Institute Annual Conference 2017 Annual Conference 2018 Management Conference 2017 Virginia Senior Games 2017 Special Events Conference

SERVICE AREAS

Central Eastern Northern Southwestern Western

Margaret Thorne LaTanya Turner, CPRP, Jim Stutts CPRP, CAE Katey Legg, CPRP Margaret Thorne, LaTanya Turner, CPRP Rita Miller, Jim Stutts CPRP, CAE Doug Blount, Bill Sgrinia Aaron Reidmiller, CPRP Arlana Fauntleroy, CPRP Blythe Russian Bill Sgrinia Jane Shelhorse WINTER 2017

RESOURCE GROUPS

Aquatic Senior Park Operations and Special Interest Groups

COMMITTEES

Awards & Citations Foundation Legislation Professional Education Nominations & Elections Student Initiatives Revenue Opportunities and Fee Structures

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Blythe Russian Jane Shelhorse Arlana Fauntleroy, CPRP Bill Sgrinia Jim Stutts CPRP, CAE Jim Stutts CPRP, CAE Arlana Fauntleroy, CPRP Margaret Thorne Lakita Watson, CPRP Blythe Russian Revised 1/19/17

MARCH

FEBRUARY

VRPS WINTER/SPRING 2017 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Sun Feb 5

All day �� Newport News CPSI Early Reg Deadline

Wed Feb 8

10:00am – 11:30am �� 2017 AC Committee Meeting—Hampton City Hall, 22 Lincoln St, Hampton, VA 23669, USA

Fri Feb 10

9:00am – 10:00am �� 2017 Virginia Senior Games Meeting—Dabbs House Museum and Tourist Information Center, 3812 9 Mile Rd, Richmond, VA 23223, USA

Tue Feb 14

10:00am – 11:00am �� 2017 Management Conference Meeting

Fri Feb 17

All day �� ESA CPRP Bootcamp Scholarship Deadline

Mon Feb 20

All day �� VRPS Central Office Closed

Wed Feb 22

10:00am – 12:00pm �� NSA Meeting—Walker Nature Center, 11450 State Rte 4721, Reston, VA, 20191

2:00pm – 3:00pm �� 2017 AC Exhibits Meeting

Sun Feb 26

All day �� 2017 Management Conference—Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront, 100 E Constance Rd, Suffolk, VA 23434, USA

Mon Feb 27

All day �� 2017 Management Conference—Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront, 100 E Constance Rd, Suffolk, VA 23434, USA

Tue Feb 28

All day �� 2017 Management Conference—Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront, 100 E Constance Rd, Suffolk, VA 23434, USA

Wed Mar 1

All day �� VSG Admin Fees Go Up $10!

All day �� 2017 Awards App Opens

10:00am – 11:00am �� VRPS 1st Wednesday Webinar: 2017 VRPS Awards

Wed Mar 8

10:00am – 11:30am �� 2017 AC Committee Meeting—Hampton City Hall, 22 Lincoln St, Hampton, VA 23669, USA

Fri Mar 10

9:00am – 10:00am �� 2017 Virginia Senior Games Meeting Dabbs House Museum and Tourist Information Center, 3812 9 Mile Rd, Richmond, VA 23223, USA

Mon Mar 13

8:00am – 2:00pm �� Athletic Fields: Blacksburg Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA

Tue Mar 14

8:00am – 2:00pm �� Athletic Fields: Chesapeake Western Branch Community Center, 4437 Portsmouth Blvd, Chesapeake, VA 23321, USA

Wed Mar 15

8:00am – 2:00pm �� Athletic Fields: Henrico Dorey Park and Recreation Center, 2999 Darbytown Rd, Henrico, VA 23231, USA

Thu Mar 16

8:00am – 2:00pm �� Athletic Fields: Loudoun Claude Moore Recreation Center, 46105 Loudoun Park Ln, Sterling, VA 20164, USA

Tue Mar 21

8:00am – 6:00pm �� Aquatic Facilities Operator Course Christiansburg Aquatic Center, 595 N Franklin St, Christiansburg, VA 24073, USA

Wed Mar 22

8:00am – 6:00pm �� Aquatic Facilities Operator Course Christiansburg Aquatic Center, 595 N Franklin St, Christiansburg, VA 24073, USA

2:00pm – 3:00pm �� 2017 AC Exhibits Meeting

Thu Mar 23

10:00am – 11:00am �� Executive Committee Meeting

Wed Mar 29

All day �� CPSI Newport News—Denbigh Community Center, 15198 Warwick Blvd, Newport News, VA 23608, United States

Thu Mar 30

All day �� CPSI Newport News—Denbigh Community Center, 15198 Warwick Blvd, Newport News, VA 23608, USA

All day �� SA/RG P&L Reports Distributed

Fri Mar 31

All day �� CPSI Newport News—Denbigh Community Center, 15198 Warwick Blvd, Newport News, VA 23608, USA

All day �� 2017 Cole Scholarship Deadline WINTER 2017

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

VRPS WINTER/SPRING 2017 CALENDAR OF EVENTS (CONTINUED) Wed Apr 12

APRIL

Fri Apr 14 Sat Apr 15 Thu Apr 20 Fri Apr 21 Tue Apr 25 Wed Apr 26

MAY

Wed May 3 Wed May 10 Thu May 11 Fri May 12 Sat May 13 Mon May 15 Wed May 24 Mon May 29

JUNE

Wed Jun 14 Thu Jun 15 Wed Jun 28 Fri Jun 30

AUG

JULY

Tue Jul 4 Wed Jul 5 Wed Jul 12 Sat Jul 15 Thu Jul 20 Fri Jul 21 Mon Jul 24 Wed Jul 26 Mon Jul 31 Tue Aug 1 Wed Aug 9

10:00am – 11:30am �� 2017 AC Committee Meeting—Hampton City Hall, 22 Lincoln St, Hampton, VA 23669, USA 9:00am – 10:00am �� 2017 Virginia Senior Games Meeting—Dabbs House Museum and Tourist Information Center, 3812 9 Mile Rd, Richmond, VA 23223, USA All day �� June Pres Newsletter Submission Deadline All day �� VSG Registration Deadline 10:00am – 11:00am �� 2016 VRPS Board Meeting—Virginia Recreation and Park Society 10:00am – 1:00pm �� Foundation Board Meeting—VRPS Central Office 10:00am – 12:00pm �� 2018 LTI Meeting 2:00pm – 3:00pm �� 2017 AC Exhibits Meeting 10:00am – 11:00am �� VRPS 1st Wednesday Webinar: Dog Parks All day �� VSG 10:00am – 11:30am �� 2017 AC Committee Meeting—Hampton City Hall, 22 Lincoln St, Hampton, VA 23669, USA All day �� VSG All day �� VSG All day �� VSG All day �� June P&R Mag Submission Deadline 2:00pm – 3:00pm �� 2017 AC Exhibits Meeting All day �� VRPS Central Office Closed 10:00am – 11:30am �� 2017 AC Committee Meeting—Hampton City Hall, 22 Lincoln St, Hampton, VA 23669, USA 10:00am – 11:00am �� Executive Committee Meeting 2:00pm – 3:00pm �� 2017 AC Exhibits Meeting All day �� SA/RG P&L Reports Distributed All day �� 2017 AC Scholarship App Deadline All day �� 2017 AC Early Reg Deadline All day �� 2016 Awards App Discounted Deadline All day �� VRPS Central Office Closed 10:00am – 11:00am �� VRPS 1st Wednesday Webinar: Play 10:00am – 11:30am �� 2017 AC Committee Meeting—Hampton City Hall, 22 Lincoln St, Hampton, VA 23669, USA All day �� Aug Pres Newsletter Submission Deadline All day �� DEADLINE: SA/RG Ballot Info to Central Office 10:00am – 11:00am �� 2016 VRPS Board Meeting—Virginia Recreation and Park Society 10:00am – 1:00pm �� VRPS Foundation Board Meeting—VRPS Central Office 10:00am – 12:00pm �� 2018 LTI Meeting 2:00pm – 3:00pm �� 2017 AC Exhibits Meeting All day �� 2017 AC Scholarship App Deadline All day �� 2016 Awards Application Deadline All day �� Leesburg CPSI Early Reg Deadline All day �� SA/RG Ballots Open 10:00am – 11:30am �� 2017 AC Committee Meeting—Hampton City Hall, 22 Lincoln St, Hampton, VA 23669, USA

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Virginia Recreation & Park Society

MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE

! n u F e s o I Cho

By: Mark Palamarchuck, Assistant Director Portsmouth Parks, Recreation & Leisure Services

In our recent division meeting, I was going over the VRPS Management Conference information and encouraging staff to sign up. One of my staff turned to me and said, “Who is this Management Conference really for? I don’t think I would get much out of it.” I had a choice to react with annoyance and irritation, or to react in a way that would get my point across without bringing the team down. I chose the second option and said, “Okay, let’s make this fun. We’ll turn it into a competition. If you can answer some questions for me, then it will be clear that you won’t get anything out of it, and I will never ask you to attend another conference. But if you can’t answer at least half of them, then you have to agree to sign up…deal?” “Deal, “he said, “I’ve got this no problem.” It is important to note that this staff member consistently dismisses trainings as a waste of time, but I was prepared for this prior to the meeting. My questions followed in rapid succession: “Why should you have a different management approach for a Millennial vs. a Baby Boomer?” “How do you motivate someone who has worked for 30 years and could retire at any time?” “How do you react when your supervisor makes a decision that directly affects your recreation center, but he didn’t check with you first?” “What do you do when budget cuts come and you have to do more with less…even though you already are at the minimum?” “How do you treat a staff member who says they didn’t know a policy, even though they were given one as a new hire?” “How do you lead a newly formed team when there is conflict from the very start?” “Should I keep asking questions or are we done?” He stared at me with a dumbfounded look, sat down and said, “Okay, how do I sign up?” WINTER 2017

Why did he do this? First because he couldn’t answer the questions, but he also knew that we consistently encourage staff to keep learning. You can’t be satisfied with what you know today. Today’s knowledge is tomorrow’s history. You have to continue to improve yourself in your field, and part of that is attending conferences and trainings. Conferences are great tools to learn new skills, or just to remind us of what we already knew but may have forgotten along the way. The 2017 VRPS Management Conference is designed to help the young professional, the middle manager and even the experienced veteran with educational sessions on: Partners in Collaboration...Partners for Success Making Personalities Work!! Viking or Farmer Creating Value through Innovation Creating a Community of UPLIFT Managing Change and Transition The Fun-damentals of Innovative Partnerships Unraveling the Grant Writing Conundrum: Securing Resources for the Future And...Action! Ready, Set, Grow Meetings, Meetings, and More Meetings Paradise Creek “A Sustainable Partnership” Emotional Intelligence Legends of Main Street: A Suffolk Ghost Walk Don’t Be the Missing Puzzle Piece The ABC’s of LinkedIn Manage Up the Ladder Situational Leadership It’s not too late to register! Come and join us February 26 – 28, 2017 at the 2017 VRPS Management Conference in the beautiful city of Suffolk, Virginia. Full delegates will have the ability to register and pay for up to 1.3 CEU’s! It’s a great return for the time invested. Whether you need to gain perspective, get inspired, or if you just need to be reminded of the reason you got into your profession, then the VRPS Management Conference has something for you. Let’s Innovate, Motivate and Collaborate so we can get back to the basics of “Making Management Fun!”

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Where Athletes are Forever Young

Virginia Senior Games Open to Athletes 50 and up May 10-13, 2017 Henrico County, VA

Archery Badminton Basketball Billiards Bowling Cycling Golf Horseshoes Miniature Golf Pickleball Racquetball Road Race Shuffleboard Softball Swimming Table Tennis Tennis Track & Field Volleyball

2017 Registration Information

Registration Deadline: April 15 Registration must be completed online at www.virginiaseniorgames.org WINTER 2017

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

NEWS FROM RESTON

A Successful Summer Means to Start Planning Now

Sometime in the last few weeks you likely wind or snow or tree falls you may be caught yourself writing 2016 instead of able to see a preventative maintenance By Willa Suter, 2017 Chair, 2017 but with the arrival of February opportunity while on site during a Aquatics Resource Group we quickly realize that the “pre-season typically un-used part of the year; are your planning period” is flying by. February always disappoints hard surfaces and roofs draining and drying the way they should?, when it comes to the number of days and Parks and Recreation has a freeze/thaw pattern caused a potential bald spot in the professionals have to make each and every one of those days turf?, is there still power at the building site for heated pipe wraps count. or space heaters? The adage about prevention and cure is well known by health and wellness professionals and is no less true If you have a large, youth-driven, seasonal team you should be when applied to a building or structure. ready to capitalize on the collegiate spring break week to get a jump on the season. Get applications open and forms up to date With your staff coming on-board and facilities getting regular so that you are ready to interview in March (many large state attention you must also take care of yourself during this calm schools are out March 6-10 this year). Employees who do not before the storm. Winter is often a slower time for programming, need an interview may need to update a certification; offer some hiring, and maintenance so it is important to capitalize on this certification renewal classes for lifeguards, camp counselors, and time for your own professional development and continuing bus-drivers. Update your employee handbook with new policies education. and procedures so they can be stuffed and stapled by your staff “The past exists only in our memories, the future with a week free from classes. You can also get a start on facilities management during this time of year. Many of the seasonal amenities throughout our parks benefit from a short site visit over the winter months. Spotting major damage early will allow you to apply a methodical approach to soliciting bids and arranging repairs – instead of a last minute nightmare. Even if there’s no visible damage from

MEMBER PROFILE

Laura Cutrona

only in our plans. The present is our only reality.”

— Robert Pirsig, author of Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance Check out your Service Area and Resource Group webpages on www.vrps.com to see what you can find for the ‘present’.

Place of work: Reston Association, Parks and Recreation Department Education: BS in Health, Fitness, and Recreation Resources, George Mason University Professional Memberships: VRPS and AoAP Hometown: Arlington, VA Favorite Local Park: Henry Clay Park Favorite recreational activity: Swimming Fantasy vacation destination: Turks & Caicos Islands Laura graduated from George Mason University in 2012 and spent 4 years working for Professional Fitness Management as a site Manager and Assistant General Manager, most recently at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Building where she developed multi-week fitness programs for employees. Having been a lifeguard for years in her youth she was thrilled to get back to aquatics as the new Aquatics Program Specialist for Reston Association. Laura will be in charge of over 20 lifeguarding courses, numerous aqua-aerobics classes, and expansion of the very successful ‘Dog-Paddle’ K9 event offered after the pools close for the season.

WINTER 2017

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

NEWS FROM DANVILLE

Danville Parks and Recreation Set to Launch Children’s Book

“The Dan River Twins” Fourth grade students preparing for the Virginia Standards of Learning testing in Danville Public Schools will now have a little extra help thanks to a children’s book commissioned by Danville Parks and Recreation and Danville Public Library. The Recreation Department recently announced the completion of “Dan River Twins,” the exciting tale of otters Danny and Mist who are competing in the Otter Frolics games in and along the banks of the Dan River. “We know every student in our school system studies the environment and the effects we as humans have on those environments, we wanted to be able to provide the students with a fun way to learn those same lessons and familiarize them with the ecology that makes up our community,” said Bill Sgrinia, Danville Parks and Recreation Department Director.

natural resources and a reminder that we are the stewards of that resource.” The story ends on a cliffhanger, allowing students the opportunity to finish their story.

passionate about education, river recreation, and this city, I feel very fortunate to have been involved in this project.”

“We worked with local teachers from Danville and Pittsylvania County to develop not only the book but a curriculum guide; we want this book to be useful in the classroom to the teachers and enjoyable to the students,” Sgrinia added. “And hopefully, after reading the story and interacting with the characters through the lesson plans, our students will have a new appreciation and explorative interest in our river and our community.”

Project manager Jason Bookheimer, Community Recreation Division Director for Danville Parks and Recreation, hopes “Dan River Twins” will be a catalyst for change. “So many of our students see the river on a daily basis but never interact with it,” he said. “We wanted to provide an opportunity to hopefully get them excited about the river and all of the creatures who call it home.”

Woodberry Hills Elementary School Title I Math Coach Amy Baynes, who was involved in the project from the beginning, said the book could render major changes in the way students perceive the community.

The tale, penned by author Cyndy Unwin out of Chesapeake, follows the otter siblings and their friends as they compete in Olympic-style games in a race from Schoolfield along the river toward Dan Daniel Memorial Park. “We didn’t want to focus too much on the river’s past or re-visit the history of the mill,” Sgrinia said. “This whole book is a celebration of one of our most beautiful

Bookheimer, who first started at the recreation department as the outdoor recreation program coordinator, said the continued opportunities the book will provide are endless.

“I feel this project has the potential to change our students’ views about the river that runs through our city,” Baynes said. “In many of our students’ lifetimes, the only information they have received about the river has been negative. Through this book, its lessons, and possible fieldtrips students may feel like they can have an impact on the river and make a difference in our community. As a person who is

WINTER 2017

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

“The book is just the beginning,” he said. “We at the Recreation Department are planning activities and field trips around the characters and locations in the book. It is our intent to continue to support the school system by providing outside-theContinued on Page 12 n

NEWS FROM DANVILLE

“The Dan River Twins”

the book sales will support the initiative and purchase new books.

Continued from Page 11 classroom learning experiences for our youth while hopefully instilling a passion for outdoor recreation and exploration.”

Department and Library will also post programming and field trip opportunities on the site.

Danville Public Library Director Joe Zappacosta also touted the progressive nature of the book.

“We have given a book to every fourth grade student in Danville Public Schools,” Zappacosta said. “Unfortunately we couldn’t afford to provide more. However, we want everyone in the community to have access to this resource so everything is available online.”

“Any hook that can get children excited about reading is a win,” Zappacosta said. “A student opening up a book and seeing pictures of places they see on a daily basis and reading a story about their home is a great way to instill a love of reading.” Zappacosta also looks forward to reading the students’ endings to the story. The students’ stories, along with digital and downloadable copies of the book and teachers guide can be found on DanRiverTwins.com. The Recreation

The author will be available for a book signing at the Danville Public Library in the spring. “I appreciate the opportunity to participate in such a creative and exciting grass-roots endeavor,” Unwin said of the project. “I had several opportunities to visit Danville while writing the story. It’s been a true pleasure to experience the hospitality of Danville’s Parks and Recreation Department, Danville Public Library, Danville Regional Foundation and Dan River Basin Association. Danville and the Dan River are in good hands.”

The project was largely supported by funding from Danville Regional Foundation. A grant from the foundation will allow for three years worth of books being donated to the fourth grade classrooms of Danville Public Schools.

Danville Parks and Recreation wishes to thank Danville Regional Foundation, Danville Public Schools, Pittsylvania County Schools, History United and Dan River Basin Association for their contributions to the project.

Books will also be available for sale at Danville Welcome Center. Proceeds from

WINTER 2017

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Meet Danny and Mist and join the twins on an adventure in the Dan River.

About the book: What happens when three young river otters, a day of fun and games and a huge flood collide? Read to find out in this playful, exciting story, set in the Dan River in Danville, Virginia. Who is responsible for taking care of the Dan River? The river is an anchor for the City of Danville and surrounding region. It has served as a hub for business and recreation for many years. Although the river has faced some adversity in the past, it is up to YOU to serve as a steward for the river in the future. Each day you will make decisions that impact the quality and health of the river and the wildlife that call it home, so the next time you are faced with a decision we hope you think of Danny and Mist. The mission of this book is to serve as a catalyst for change in our community and begin sharing all the great things the river has to offer.

The otter twins in the classroom

Students preparing for the Virginia Standards of Learning testing in Danville Public Schools will now have a little extra help thanks to this children’s book commissioned by Danville Parks and Recreation and Danville Public Library. The story, developed with help from area teachers, focuses on fourth grade SOL curriculum and comes complete with downloadable curriculum guides for teachers. Over the next three years, every fourth-grade student in Danville Public Schools will receive a copy of “The Dan River Twins” thanks to a grant from Danville Regional Foundation.

The otter twins in the community

Likewise, Danville Parks and Recreation and Danville Public Library are currently planning programming and ﬁeldtrip opportunities to introduce area students and their families to the real-life ecology from which the twins and their friends were based. While not every student in the school system or the neighboring school systems will receive a book, “The Dan River Twins” is downloadable for free Online at www.DanRiverTwins.com. Multiple versions are available as well as the teacher’s guide. Books are also available for purchase at the Danville Welcome Center at 645 River Park Dr. This project was a collaborative eﬀort between Danville Parks and Recreation and Danville Public Library with contributions from Danville Regional Foundation, History United and Dan River Basin Association. WINTER 2017

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

NEWS FROM LOUDOUN

BEST CAMP EVER

By Dan Bureau, Children’s Programs Division Manager, Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services In an $18 billion industry1, how do you provide the best camp around, especially in Loudoun County, Virginia, one of the highest median-income-grossing counties in the United States?

passionate about working with children, and has passions and experiences to share with them. In fact, many team members were once campers themselves who have come back to give back!

Like many businesses, our staff are at the very heart of what we offer our customers. Staffing summer camps is a lengthy process that begins in December and runs right up until camps start in June. With 14 elementary-age Daze camps and five middle-school-age Fest camps, we want to recruit and retain the best. Our team is

Summer day camps run from 7:30 a.m. until 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, for a total of eight weeks. Despite describing the camps as “all-encompassing,” camp coordinator Caroline Bennett-Davis continually seeks individuals who have unique talents to offer campers. “Campers can attend affordable,

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Virginia Recreation & Park Society

daycare-style camps where they are supervised, or they can attend a variety of more expensive specialty camps that offer themed activities. With Daze and Fest, we try to keep campers engaged all day with fun, interesting activities, while maintaining an affordable price,” says Bennett-Davis. “In the summer of 2016, our 150 staff provided a plethora of

MEMBER PROFILE

Brandon Wood

Place of work: Parks, Recreation and Community Service (PRCS), Loudoun County, VA Position: Camp Specialist Education: BS in Recreation, Parks and Tourism, Radford University (’13) Professional memberships: VRPS Hometown: NAVY brat, but consider Ashburn, VA to be my ‘hometown’ Family: A beautiful wife Allison and a two-year-old furbaby, Ralphie (English Shepherd)

activities including nature exploration, cooking projects, water events, carnivals, musical jam sessions, Olympic-themed special events, color runs and much more.” The connections and relationships nurtured with campers are key to our success. During interviews, one of the discussion points with potential staff is these connections, which Bennett-Davis and camp specialist Brandon Wood believe is a major reason for the high return rate of camp staff. “Our staff consistently cite their campers as one of the main reasons to return to work at Daze and Fest summer camps,” reveals Wood. The facts speak volumes – the return rate among staff for summer 2016 was over 70%! Bennett-Davis and Wood aim to cultivate a group of camp staff who are curious, engaged and excited right from the first interview question. Bennett-Davis says that camp counselors have to think on their feet and be prepared for any scenario, so she often starts her interviews by asking the applicant to sing a song. “This is not about singing ability by any means,” reveals Bennett-Davis. “We simply want to start that atmosphere of openness, willingness and enthusiasm from the very get-go.”

Favorite experience on the job: Positively impacting the lives of families in Loudoun County through numerous camp programs Toughest part of the job: Not being able to satisfy everyone even through your best efforts Favorite recreational activity: Hiking, hammock-ing, and canoeing Favorite book: A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail by Bill Bryson If you could go anywhere in the world where would it be: New Zealand, to travel and see all of its natural wonders

As well as nurturing staff and offering a variety of activities, our camps provide weekly swim and other field trips to capture the interest of all campers. This summer, Daze and Fest campers will head to a Potomac Nationals baseball game, Six Flags America Amusement Park, the National Building Museum and Newseum in Washington, DC, Frederick Keys Camp Splash Day, Franklin Park Arts Center and Ticonderoga Farm, to name a few.

per Daze camper, and $8 per Fest camper, per field trip. In a vastly socio-economically diverse county, it is important to provide value for every family, including many with full-time working parents in need of the care that our camps provide throughout summer. Striving to provide the best value, staff and offerings has its rewards. Loudoun families were united in their love of our camps when Daze and Fest were awarded the “Best of Loudoun – Readers’ Choice” award for best summer camps in 2016!

Between 2014 and 2016, the number of summer day campers grew from 976 to 1,497. Despite no increase in weekly camp fees since 2010, Bennett-Davis and Wood, full-time, year-round camp staff who head up Daze and Fest, always operate within budget, maintaining an average of just $5

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According to the 2015 ACA Business Operations Report

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NEWS FROM LTI

LTI!

Do you know what these three letters stand for? LTI stands for the Leadership Training Institute, VRPSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier retreat style institute held at the Wintergreen Resort. The institute is exclusive as it only accommodates 60 participants in its weekend full of leadership development, educational sessions, team building, and networking. The LTI Committee hit the ground running in January planning the 2018 institute. The Institute has developed an excellent reputation in our Society because of its original educational programming and our ability to continue to adapt and change the program to remain relevant and current. The institute will be held April 15-17, 2018 and the registrations will go live in March 2017. It is never too early to start discussing your 2018 training plan your supervisor. You do not want to miss out on this exclusive opportunity.

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Virginia Recreation & Park Society

NEWS FROM NORFOLK

The Norfolk Boxing Center is a

Total Knock Out!

By Jonah Grinkewitz, Public Information Intern, Norfolk Department of Recreation Parks and Open Spaces At the grand opening of the Norfolk Boxing Center on Nov. 4, 2016 Nassir Cuffee stood alongside Mayor Kenny Alexander and addressed the audience: “This just means a lot to me because, especially in the city of Norfolk, there is a lot of crime and there are kids out here that are doing so much wrong that this gym will provide a place of hope,” the teen said, “Kids can make it out there and show them that, it’s not the end.” And after some coaxing from Mayor Alexander, Cuffee added, “Let’s get ready to rumble!” Cuffee, a 14-year-old boxer who has experienced the benefits of Team Norfolk Boxing, exemplifies the bright future that this new boxing center can bring to a city rich with boxing history. Jerry Hart, coach of Team Norfolk Boxing, also sees the potential that the boxing center can bring to the community. “We hope that this helps to bring the visibility back to where it used to be,

boxing and academics. It’s a lot of life lessons too. It’s a full-service mentoring program. Our very unofficial motto is ‘Champions in the Ring, Champions in Life’ and we think that’s important.”

because there are still great boxers in Norfolk and around Virginia,” he said. This 13,000 square foot state-of-theart facility located at Harbor Park is everything a boxer could dream for. It has two Olympic size boxing rings, a plethora of punching bags, a weight room, locker rooms, and even a lounge and kitchen area. There is plenty of parking and the light-rail station is located just steps from the door. The boxing center has already hosted various boxing events, such as the Silver Gloves Boxing Championship, and plans to host many more in the future.

There are three full-time coaches, including Shaun Wilson and Randell Johnson, who were trained by Norfolk Olympic coaches Dan Campbell and Gloria Peak. Some Norfolk residents may not realize it, but Norfolk has a prestigious history as a boxing town. The new boxing center is a well-deserved investment for the many hard-working athletes that have come out of Norfolk and continue to box here.

Also included is a classroom with six computers and a printer for kids to do their homework before and after their workouts. The fact that kids have a place to do this speaks to a larger part of what the new facility hopes to do for the community.

Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker, a Norfolk boxer, was a world champion boxer and won a gold medal at both the 1983 Pan Am Games and the 1984 Olympics. Dan Campbell coached the U.S. Olympic Boxing Team in 2008 and Gloria Peak was the first American woman to coach an Olympic team when she did so in the 2012 London games.

“We check on the kids grades, we expect them to do well in school, we communicate with the parents,” Hart said, “We believe that it’s more than just

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Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Team Norfolk previously operated out of the Barraud Park Boxing Center, where the wait list to use the facility sometimes reached up to 100 people. “Norfolk has been on the map for its quality boxing program for a long time.” said Darrell R. Crittendon, RPOS Director, “We are excited to support that with this new facility, and to watch it grow to its full potential.” The new center has double the capacity of the previous location, and can accommodate up to 50 kids at a time in the facility. There are currently around 80 members enrolled in the boxing programs and even more who have expressed interest in joining in the future. “We are pretty confident that it’s going to explode, it’s just a matter of time,” Hart said, “We want to manage the explosion so it’s more gradual.” Plus, getting involved at the new center is easy and affordable, especially if you are a Norfolk resident. It only costs $60 annually to use the fitness center for

Norfolk residents and $125 for nonresidents. This membership includes access to the punching bags as well. And other fitness and boxing classes range from $30 to $60. Altogether, this is a great value for services provided by a knowledgeable and experienced staff.

is cool, but at the same time you’ve gotta be there as a life coach,” Wilson said, “Because they see you as a coach, they trust you. You’re almost like an extra parent to them.” On the walls inside the facility there are boxing figures made of newspaper clippings of former Norfolk boxers. It is fitting that these reminders of the past line the halls of the new boxing center.

There is a lot that contributes to the success of this boxing center. Between the experience and dedication of the coaches and the amazing facility, Hart believes that there is truly no other boxing gym like it. Another important factor is that it is a city program.

“We may have an Olympian in this program, someday. I wouldn’t doubt it,” Hart said. But even if there are no future Olympians, that is not what is most important.

“The City of Norfolk underwrites the whole thing because they value the youth of the city and the youth deserve a facility like this,” Hart said.

“Boxing is great, but hopefully boxing is a vehicle for many of them to make a better life for themselves. Because it’s already inside them,” Hart said.

Coach Shaun Wilson agrees that what is most important is the future of the kids in this program. “Boxing is a good sport, but at the end of the day, life is what you have to deal with. Being a boxing coach is cool, teaching them boxing

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Virginia Recreation & Park Society

NEWS FROM NORFOLK

Norfolk Helping Kids Get Out and Play this Summer! By Jonah Grinkewitz, Public Information Intern, Norfolk Department of Recreation Parks and Open Spaces Summer is time for kids to get out and play, and the City of Norfolk Department of Recreation, Parks, and Open Space offers unique, affordable, and quality summer camps for kids age 5-12. There are four summer camp options depending on a child’s age and the type of child care they prefer, and the camps are extremely affordable for the quality of service. Facilities Manager Jacqueline Johnson likes to say, “Our programs aren’t cheap; they’re inexpensive. We are offering the same, if not better, services than other municipalities that charge three times what we charge.” Camp registration is staggered, beginning on April 15 and go until April 18. All camps, with the exception of the teen camp, run the full summer season, June 27

through August 28. The first registration date is for “Camp Willoughby,” a specialized all-day camp held at the Captain’s Quarters Recreation Center with beachfront access. The camp is specialized because it offers unique access to waterfront activities and resources. Due to its overwhelming popularity and limited camp size (50 slots), registration is done through a lottery system to provide an equal registration opportunity for

spread throughout Norfolk.

parents. Once those slots are filled, kids can join “Camp Wake-Up” or the “Get Out and Play” camps.

With such a diverse array of locations throughout the City of Norfolk, these camps offer a great opportunity for parents to give their kids new experiences.

And for teens ages 13-16, parents can choose the “Norview Navigators” camp, a 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. camp that runs from July 5 through August 12. The specialized teen camp is held at the Norview Recreation Center, which is centrally located in Norfolk. The cost is $50 for the season, which includes field trip fees.

“We are strong believers in equal footing. No matter what your economic status, parents are able to expose their kids and give them similar experiences,” says Johnson.

“Our summer camps give Norfolk Residents a chance to send their kids out to communities they never really get to go to,” says James Mickle, Division Head of Recreation & Leisure. “Within that cost, they get a full-day program, breakfast and lunch provide by the USDA, and seven field trips that go throughout the city.”

“Camp Wake-Up” is an early morning camp that goes from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and runs $455 for the season, paid in three monthly increments. This camp is offered at five recreation centers spread through Norfolk.

Johnson says that there are specific areas that they focus on at each facility for the kids. These include health and wellness, physical activity, outreach, personal development and life skills, cultural enhancement, and outdoor and environmental education.

“Get Out and Play” is an 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. camp that costs an affordable $85 for the entire season, and includes field trip fees and a t-shirt for the kids. This camp is offered at eleven recreation centers, also WINTER 2017

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

“We want to expose the kids to the visual and social arts and give them diverse experiences,” she says, “In a world governed by technology, we want to teach the kids how to socially interact.” Apart from the affordability, the methodology behind the summer camps makes them unique. “The amount of time for staff development is huge compared to other municipalities. We have 18 facilities throughout the city and we are able to develop a personalized relationship with the kids in our program,” says Johnson, “I would put our team up against anyone, private or public.” Mickle says that this is the reason that they have a high return rate for parents and kids who continually come back to the program. “We sell out on the first day in most situations,” he says, “I estimate that 50-60 percent of kids are returning campers, and that’s on the low end.” In addition to these camps, the Therapeutic Recreation Center provides recreational therapy to people with varying disabilities. Cathy Orletsky, the Senior Recreation Supervisor who has been employed at the Therapeutic Recreation Center in Norfolk for 18 years, says that, “We truly design the program based on their leisure interest. What do you think would be a really neat experience? What have you done in your past but haven’t thought was possible with your disability?” Each program has a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) and there are a wide range of programs. The

WHAT’S NEW

Therapeutic Recreation Center staff generate programs through participant requests and community availability. There are 45 to 60 programs in each 10week cycle and 10 to 12 of them are new each time, sometimes even more.

IN YOUR COUNTY OR TOWN?

The Therapeutic Recreation Center also offers summer camps for children and teens ages 6-19. These are month-long, all-day camps that take place Wednesday through Friday with varying weekly themes, such as “beaches,” “trails,” or “parks.”

Let VRPS spread the word about all your hard work! Email us at vrps@vrps.com and appear in our next magazine.

“We hope to provide things that some participants may never have access to,” Orletsky says, “I like to say that we offer programs from A-Z; Aqua-cize to Zumba.” There truly are no other programs in the region like the ones offered at the Therapeutic Recreation Center, where the dedicated staff creates the programs based on the interests and needs of each participant. Many programs even offer transportation to participants to and from the facility. RPOS Director, Darrell R. Crittendon is proud of the array of opportunities available to Norfolk residents. “Norfolk is proud to offer such high-quality programming at an affordable cost.” he said, “More than fun, our camps are a lifechanging and rewarding experience.” Altogether, the City of Norfolk has exciting and affordable summer camps and programs for children and teens with different needs, interests, and financial situations. This is all thanks to the hard work and dedication of a city and a staff that puts the kids first.

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NEWS FROM HERNDON MEMBER PROFILE

John Walsh

Place of work: Town of Herndon Parks and Recreation Department Position: Recreation Services Supervisor II Education: Herndon Elementary, Middle, and High School, Undergrad at Radford University Professional memberships: Kids at Hope, VRPS & NRPA Hometown: Herndon, VA Family: Father: Dennis Walsh, Mother: Cary Mason, Sister: Mason Walsh Favorite experience on the job: Being able to give back to the community that I grew up in and seeing the expressions of joy on childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faces during Herndon Festival. Toughest part of the job: Having to cancel potential programs and activities due to low enrollment Favorite recreational activity: Mountain Biking and Running Favorite book: The Hobbit J.R.R. Tolkien If you could go anywhere in the world where would it be: New Zealand

Almost every parks and recreation staff member has a drawer full of program, event and staff shirts. John Walsh has filled his drawer and life by earning many shirts in his hometown with the Herndon Parks and Recreation Department. He started his collection as a participant in the department youth sports and swimming programs. Next he progressed to wear a number of camp counselor staff t-shirtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. He would then return to Herndon in a Radford University shirt to work during summer breaks on department special events. All along the way, he always took great care of the customers and supported fellow staff. John achieved his first full-time position and a collared shirt with the department as the assistant building manager of the Herndon Community Center. Recently, John was promoted to a recreation supervisor, overseeing our gymnastics, martial arts, arts and crafts vendors and shows, and some sports programs. Now he wears all his different shirts to get the job done.

PLAY HAS NO LIMIT.

GameTime designs

innovative, inclusive play spaces that empower children and adults of all abilities to experience the joy of play together. For fifty years, Cunningham Recreation has shared that commitment to inclusion and to enriching childhood through play.

800.438.2780 cunninghamrec.com

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2017 Annual Conference

HAMPTON ROADS CONVENTION CENTER HAMPTON, VIRGINIA

EXHIBIT HALL & STATEWIDE MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES “From Trails to Treasure—Your Journey Awaits!”

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Exhibit Hall 2017 VRPS Conference

HAMPTON ROADS CONVENTION CENTER Premium booth equipment includes pipe and drape 8’ high backdrops, 3’ high side rails, two draped 6’ tables (A-F), 2 chairs, and one booth identification sign (7”x44”).

PREMIUM BOOTH

VRPS MEMBER by 02/28/17

NON-MEMBER by 02/28/17

VRPS MEMBER After 2/28/17

NON-MEMBER After 2/28/17

Booths A-F

$1215

$1465*

$1305

$1555*

Standard booth will be 10’x10’ and equipment includes pipe and drape 8’ high backdrops, 3’ high side rails, one draped 6’ table , 2 chairs, and one booth identification sign (7”x44”).

STANDARD BOOTH

VRPS MEMBER by 02/28/17

NON-MEMBER by 02/28/17

VRPS MEMBER After 2/28/17

NON-MEMBER After 2/28/17

Nos. 101-539

$495

$745*

$585

$835*

*Non-member fees INCLUDE a 1-year Commercial Membership to VRPS valued at $250. See below!

Registration Packet Stuffers - $250

Have your single sheet flyer in the hand of every delegate by inserting it in the 2017 Conference Registration Packet. Register and pay online at www.vrps.com, or contact vrps@vrps.com, then send 1000 copies for packet by September 15, 2017 to: Hampton Parks, Recreation & Leisure Services, 22 Lincoln Street, Hampton, Virginia, 23669

Discover the Benefits of VRPS Commercial Membership!

Tabletop Brochure Placement - $250 Companies involved in the delivery of leisure services, equipment, supplies or similar associated activities for parks and recreation qualify for VRPS Commercial Membership, at only $250! Commercial Membership includes:

Have your brochure/single sheet flyer on an unmanned tabletop exhibit at the 2017 Conference. Register and pay online at www.vrps.com, or contact vrps@vrps.com, then send 1000 copies for packet by September 15, 2017 to: Hampton Parks, Recreation & Leisure Services, 22 Lincoln Street, Hampton, Virginia, 23669



Reinforce your presence at the Conference by placing an ad in the VRPS Conference App. Orders must be received and paid for by 8/15/17. For ad information, sizes and rates, and to register and pay online, visit

       

Access to online Membership Directory, to include corporate logo, website URL, and Social links in Commercial Member listing; VRPS member agency department mailing list upon request;

Conference App Advertisement - Rates Vary

Copies of Virginia Parks & Recreation Magazine and VRPS President’s Newsletter (three per year of each publication); 10% discount for advertising; Membership certificate, free job bank and classifieds postings; Full use of Members-Only sections of www.vrps.com; Two (2) individual Commercial Representative memberships for a total of Two (2) individuals representing the Commercial organization; Listing on VRPS “Preferred Vendors” webpage, to include hotlink to your website; and, Listing in Virginia Parks & Recreation Magazine and VRPS President’s Newsletter on full page representing preferred vendors (six publications/year, distributed electronically to entire VRPS membership).

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Located in beautiful and historic Hampton, Virginia, the Hampton Roads Convention Center and is situated within the Coliseum Central District, next to the iconic Hampton Coliseum, a stone’s throw from the vibrant Peninsula Town Center. In Downtown Hampton, you’ll find the Hampton History Museum, Virginia Air & Space Center, and a few “treasures” like the restored carousel and waterfront walkway! The Hampton Roads Convention Center is 344,000 total square feet of space, with 35 flexible spaces for up to 14,000 people, and a grand ballroom to accommodate 1,800 for banquets. The Exhibit Hall is in 3 sections, each with its own elephant door for load-in and load-out. There is an outdoor terrace for special events, and the Center is connected to the 295-suite convention headquarters Embassy Suites Hotel. Visit www.visithampton.com!

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Exhibit Hall 2017 VRPS Conference

HAMPTON ROADS CONVENTION CENTER (Tentative Schedule)

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2017 4:30pm-6:30pm MONDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2017 11:00am-11:30am (Directors) 11:30am-3:30pm (Delegates) VENDORS REGISTER ONLINE AT www.vrps.com

Conditions of Space . . . Agreement to Conditions: Exhibitors and their employees agree to abide by all conditions contained herein. It is understood that the Virginia Recreation and Park Society (hereinafter called VRPS) shall have sole control of the exhibitor hall. Assignment of Space: VRPS shall assign all Exhibit Hall space, but shalt consider the location preference of individual exhibitors as much as possible. Assignments will be on a first paid basis. Payment: Full payment for space must accompany signed contract. Payments for the space shall be made by the exhibitor by paying online at www.vrps.com, or by mailing check payable to “VRPS” directly to: VRPS, 6372 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Suite 109, Mechanicsville, VA 23111. Cancellation by Exhibitor: Should the exhibitor be unable to occupy and use the exhibit space contracted for, they should contact VRPS as soon as possible at 804-7309447 or vrps@vrps.com. All sums paid by the exhibitor, less a $75 cancellation charge, will be refunded if cancellation is received in writing on or before close of business Friday, September 22, 2017. No refunds will be made if the notice of cancellation is received on or after September 23, 2017. VRPS Liability: VRPS undertakes no duty to exercise care, nor assumes any responsibility for the protection and safety of the exhibitor, his officials, agents or employees, or the protection of the property used in connection with the exhibit, from theft, damage or destruction by fire, accident or any other cause. Installing and Dismantling: The specific requirements as to time for installation and dismantling of exhibits must be followed. Insurance: In all cases, exhibitors wishing to insure their goods must do so at their own expense. Exhibitor Liability: Exhibitor assumes entire responsibility and hereby agrees to protect, indemnify and defend VRPS, its employees, and agents harmless against any claims, losses and damages to persons or property caused by exhibitor’s installation, removal, maintenance or use of the exhibitor’s premises. Each party to this Agreement shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the other party and its officers, directors, agents, and employees from and against any and all demands, claims, damages to persons or property, losses and liabilities, including reasonable attorneys’ fees (collectively, “Claims”), arising solely out of or solely caused by the indemnifying party’s negligence or willful misconduct in connection with the provision and use of the Hampton Roads Convention Center as contemplated by this contract. This paragraph shall not waive any statutory limitations of liability available to either party, including facilities’ limitations of liability laws, nor shall it waive any defenses either party may have with respect to any Claim. Registration Policies: Each exhibiting company will receive up to two (2) exhibit hall lunch combination tickets. Exhibitors are welcome to participate in educational sessions. Additional exhibit hall lunch tickets may be purchased for $50 each. Other meal/social tickets during the VRPS Annual Conference may be purchased for an additional fee. Drayage and Deliveries: Contact Exhibits, Inc. at 804-788-4400 or send an email to angie_cornett@xhibitsinc.com. Electrical, Audio Visual and Internet/Data: Please secure directly with the Hampton Roads Convention Center, 757-315-1610. The form to secure electrical needs is located on www.vrps.com with the exhibitor information. Parking Information for the Hampton Roads Convention Center: Outdoor, paved parking is adjacent to the Convention Center, and is always free. Exhibit Hall Specs: Exhibit Hall “B” has concrete floors with carpeted aisles, and has a ceiling height of 30’. Numbered Booths are 10’x10’, and Booths A-F are 20’x20’.

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Virginia Recreation & Park Society

A MESSAGE FROM THE SRG CHAIR

Karen Brutsché Reston Community Center 2016 was a great year for the Senior Resource Group! Under the leadership of June Snead, SRG presented the Fall Conference – Building Blocks for Active Older Adults at the beautiful Bow Creek Recreation Center in Virginia Beach. The event attracted over 40 participants and offered five sessions where participants earned CEU’s. Your new Board Members have been busy brainstorming ideas for this year’s Fall Conference, LIFE - Living Inspired & Focused = Empowered Professionals. This year’s conference will be held in the Northern Service Area at the Reston Community Center, 2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston, Virginia 20191 on

Thursday, September 21 from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. SRG has secured a limited number of rooms 2017 Senior Resource Group Board at the SpringHill Suites From left to right: Hope Lomax-Jones – City of Norfolk Recreation, Herndon Reston, 138 Janice Myrick – Suffolk Parks & Recreation, Karen Brutsché – Reston Spring St, Herndon, Community Center, Adriana Carr – Arlington County, Cheryl Wheeler – Virginia 20170 for Senior Center of Leesburg, Aaron Clay – Hopewell Recreation & Parks, $115.00 per night. June Snead – Hanover County Parks & Recreation Reserve your room today by calling 888-287-9400 Please do not hesitate to contact any of and reference VRPS-SRG Room Block the SRG Board Members for suggestions, for September 20 - 22. Conference comments, programs or blog ideas. sessions will be announced through the Our goal is to be relevant to all VRPS VRPS website, VRPS Eupdate, VRPS Members who work and advocate for Magazine and President’s Newsletter and older adults. SRG Blog.

NEWS FROM THE NORTHERN SERVICE AREA On January, 13, 2017 the Northern Service Area hosted a winter Social at the Visitor Center at Frying Pan Farm Park. With a preserved and modernized 19th century dairy barn at its heart, the facility was the perfect space for almost 40 parks and Recreation professionals from Virginia’s Northern, towns, cities and counties to join together for some good food, and networking. After a wonderful lunch catered by Cantina D’Italia, guests were split into teams for some fun and games. NSA board members tried to trick everyone with 2 Truths and a Lie, but that was not so easy. Todd sent the teams on a “Scavenger Hunt” which heated up the competition. There were so many items

Northern Service Area Winter Social

Fish, Prince William County Parks and Recreation. Sarah Oberther, Fairfax County Park Authority stepped up to Chair Elect, Sheri Conrad, Loudoun County Parks and Recreation and Community Service remains on the board as Recorder, Ron Tillman, Town of Herndon Parks and Recreation remains on as Treasurer, and we welcomed New Board Member Kaveh Tajalli, City of Fairfax Parks and Recreation as Communications.

By Sheri Conrad, CPRP, Manager, Middleburg Community Center

for the door prizes that everyone walked away with something. Raffle tickets were sold for a 50/50 Raffle with Sarah Oberther holding the winning tickets. She graciously donated her half of the winnings back to the Northern Service Area.

A wonderful time was had by all! Our next social will be Foot Golf at Pinecrest Golf Course. Please join us for a little friendly competition and networking. The NSA Meeting and social schedule can be found on the VRPS website.

The NSA said Thank you to our 2016 Chair Todd Brown, Fairfax County Park Authority and welcomed new Chair Kat WINTER 2017

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

VRPS Preferred Vendors

AQUATICS Aquatic Council, LLC Aquatic Facility Design Harper and Company, Inc.—2017 Exhibitor Jazzy Pools, Spas, and Fitness, LLC National Pools of Roanoke CONCUSSION ASSESSMENT Braintact DESIGN/CONSULTING Capitol Landing Mulch CHA Consulting Gale Associates, Inc. Land Planning and Design Associates Landscape Supply, Inc. Luck Ecosystems Smith Midland Corp

PLAYGROUND/PARK All Recreation American Ramp Company Bliss Products and Services Cunningham Recreation/ GameTime—2017 Exhibitor Discount Playground Supply Kompan MaxPlayFit, LLC—2017 Exhibitor Mid-Atlantic Products, Inc. MTS Recreations Playground Specialists, Inc. Site Concepts Southern Playground Sparks@Play Virginia Playground Services

Smith Turf Timmons Group Virginia Turfgrass Council Waverly Lawn and Garden

ACTIVITIES Dixie Youth Sports Go Ape Tree Top Adventures Piedmont Virginia ASA Play-Well TEKnologies USTA Mid-Atlantic

FACILITY AMENITIES Anchor Audio—2017 Exhibitor Bedford Technology Court One Electro-Mech Scoreboard Company Fitness Resource Glasdon Inc. Gold Medal Products Mateflex Most Dependable Fountains Musco Sports Lighting, LLC— 2017 Exhibitor Pioneer Athletics - 2017 Exhibitor R.J. Thomas Manufacturing Company Shoco, Inc. SofSURFACES SportMaster Stageline Mobile Stage Time Technologies

SOFTWARE ACTIVE Network Maximum Solutions, Inc. MyRec.com—2017 Exhibitor ReCPro Software SSCI Vermont Systems SPORTS APPAREL/EQUIPMENT Franklin Sports, Inc. SCORE

2017 Annual Conference Exhibitors

WINTER 2017

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Hands-On Athletic Fields Training, 2017

From Irrigation to Aeration, Mowing to Management, What Works and What Doesn’t Date

Host

Location/Address

Monday, March 13, 2017

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Mike Goatley (Virginia Tech), Jeff Clarke (Toro)

Virginia Polytechnical Institute and State University Blacksburg, VA 24061 540-231-2951

Tuesday, March 14, 2017

Chesapeake Parks & Recreation Jeff Clark (Toro), Jimmy Rodgers (Luck Ecosystems)

Western Branch Community Center 4437 Portsmouth Blvd., Chesapeake, VA 23321 757-465-0211

Wednesday. March 15, 2017 Henrico Division of Recreation & Parks Jeff Clark (Toro), Jimmy Rodgers (Luck Ecosystems)

Dorey Park Recreation Center 2999 Darbytown Rd,, Henrico, VA 23231 804-795-2334

Thursday, March 16, 2017

Claude Moore Recreation Center 46105 Loudoun Park Ln., Sterling, VA 20164

Loudoun Co. Parks, Recreation, & Community Svc. Jeff Clark (Toro), Jimmy Rodgers (Luck Ecosystems)

571-258-3600

Lunch Included 8 - 8:30 am 8:30 - 9:45 am 9:45 - 10:00 am 10 - 11:15 am 11:15 - 11:45 am 11:45am - 12:30pm

Check-in Topics Break Topics Questions & Answers Lunch

12:30 - 2pm

Hands-On/Facility Tour

CEUs included (.2 CEUs pending approval)

ABOUT THE SPEAKERS Jeff Clarke, CSE is the District Sales Manager – Mid-Atlantic for the Toro Company. He previously served as a Commercial Territory Manager with Turf Equipment and Supply Company and as the Superintendent at Penderbrook Golf Club. Jeff has been part of the turf industry for more than 20 years and regularly presents on relevant industry trends regionally and nationally. He holds a Bachelors Degree in Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences and is currently completing his Master of Business Administration from Virginia Tech. All Locations: “Top Ten” Issues from Mid-Atlantic Turf Management Leaders; Hands-On Training Dr. Mike Goatley, Jr. is Professor and Extension Turfgrass Specialist in the Department of Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences of Virginia Tech. Goatley has B.S. and M.S. degrees from the University of Kentucky and the PhD from Virginia Tech. Following 15 years on the faculty of Mississippi State University, Goatley returned to Blacksburg where his primary responsibilities are statewide development and implementation of educational outreach programs for all areas of turfgrass management. Mike has co-authored four books on sports turf management, was elected to the STMA Board of Directors in 2008, and is served as STMA President in 2012—2013. Blacksburg: Hands-On Approach to Turf Management and Facility Tours Jimmy Rodgers, CSFM is currently Business Development Manager with Luck Ecosystems (specialty soil and sand products—Northern Virginia, Shenandoah Valley, Southwest Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland). He has been a Sports Field Manager at the high school, college (University of Virginia, George Mason University), and professional (Washington Nationals, Florida Marlins, Richmond Braves Baseball Clubs) levels. Jimmy has gained significant knowledge and appreciation for what is desirable in crafting and manufacturing various rootzone materials to grow and manage sports and golf turf. Chesapeake, Henrico, Loudoun: Nine Innings of Ballfield Maintenance; Hands-On Training WINTER 2017

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Field Use, Turf Selection, Pesticide & Fertilizer Application, Water Use Efficiency, Skinned Area & Pest Management, Weed Control

Hands-On Athletic Fields Training, 2017

Name: ____________________________

Badge Name: ___________________ Cert. Initials: _______________

Address: __________________________

City: _______________________ State: _________ Zip Code: _______

Title: ______________________________

Phone (Office): ___________________

Phone (Mobile): __________________

INDICATE SESSION

Agency: __________________________________________________________

Fax: ________________________ VSTMA# ________________________

Email:

Monday, March 13 2017 — Virginia Tech

Wednesday, March 15, 2017 — Henrico County

Tuesday, March 14, 2017 — City of Chesapeake

Thursday, March 16, 2017 — Loudoun County VRPS/VSTMA

Registration Fee—Includes Lunch

VRPS Non-Member

Early — received by 1/31/2017

$49

$74

Regular — received 2/1/2017 - 2/28/2017

$64

$89

Late — received after 2/28/2017

$74

$99

PAYMENT INFORMATION

Check#: __________ Need Invoice:  Yes Credit Card:

Visa

Make checks payable to VRPS

TOTAL DUE = $ VRPS (Virginia Recreation and Park Society) 6372 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Suite 109 Mechanicsville, VA 23111 Phone: (804) 730-9447 Fax: (804) 730-9455 Email: vrps@vrps.com

PO#: _____________  No

Master Card AMEX Discover

Credit Card #: _______________________________ Expiration Date: Name on Card: _______________________________ Address: (for credit card statement)

Cancellation Policy: If received in writing before 2/28/2017 VRPS will refund your registration fee less a $15 administrative charge. Cancellations not received in writing will not be eligible for a refund. No cancellations will be accepted after 3/10/2016, however substitutions will be accepted.

Special Accommodations:

City: ______________ State: _____ Zip: __________ Signature: ________________________Date: ______

I require special accommodations, including dietary, to participate in this workshop. (Please attach a description of your needs with your registration by February 28, 2017).

Phone: ______________ Fax: ___________________

WINTER 2017

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Certified Playground Safety Inspector Course and Exam March 29 - 31, 2017 – Newport News, VA Phone: 804-730-9447

FAX: 804-730-9455

CIRCLE REGISTRATION CHOICE

On or before 2/5/17

CPSI Course & Exam

*Includes Lunches & Site Visit

CPSI Course Only

*Includes Lunches & Site Visit

CPSI EXAM Only

Web: www.vrps.com

Email: vrps@vrps.com

2/6/17 – 3/5/17

3/6/17 or after

VRPS Member

Non-Member

VRPS Member

Non-Member

VRPS Member

Non-Member

$575

$650

$635

$710

$665

$740

VRPS Member

Non-Member

VRPS Member

Non-Member

VRPS Member

Non-Member

$440

$515

$490

$565

$510

$585

VRPS Member

Non-Member

VRPS Member

Non-Member

VRPS Member

Non-Member

$140

$190

$150

$200

$160

$210

1.5 CEUs are included in the course fee.

*A candidate who has a disability may request a special accommodation; the request must be submitted in writing at the time of course or exam registration. In order to properly accommodate all persons with disabilities it is recommended that all requests be made 45 days prior to the scheduled date for the course and exam. *English as second language (ESL) candidates may request a time extension and/or the use of a strict translation dictionary. Candidates request forms/fees must be submitted to NRPA no less than 30 days prior to the exam.

*Price includes UPS Ground Shipping within the Continental United States to a BUSINESS address. Shipping to Residential address will be an additional $10 fee. Please call for international shipping fees. Cancellation Policy: Registration fee, less a $300 cancellation charge, will be refunded if cancellation is received in writing on or before close of business February 5, 2017. Substitutions are allowed. No refunds will be considered after February 5, 2017.

Request forms are available online at http://www.nrpa.org/cpsi. The course host will work collaboratively with NRPA to ensure all approved, reasonable accommodations are met.

REGISTRATION IS ALSO AVAILABLE ONLINE AT www.vrps.com First Name: Last Name: Name on Badge: Agency: Title: Shipping Address: (No PO Boxes): ___ ___________________ City: State: Zip: Phone: Email: __ Fax: Address is Business or Residential? VRPS Member: __Yes __No Attendees that are continuing their certification MUST provide their certification number. CPSI Certification Number for Renewal: Study materials will not be shipped until both the minimum of 25 course registrants is reached and full individual payment is received. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure timely payment is received by VRPS in order to allow materials to be sent and received, adhering to three weeks minimum preparation as recommended by NRPA.

Credit Card Type: Credit Card Number: Name on Card: Billing Address: Phone: Date:

City: Email: Signature:

Check/PO Number: Exp. Date: Security Code: Agency: State: ____Zip: ___Fax: ___ ___________________

Payment-in-full, in the form of check, money order, or credit card, is required to secure placement in program. If paying by check, make payable to VRPS and mail with registration form to:

Course and Exam will be held at: Denbigh Community Center 15198 Warwick Blvd. Newport News, VA 23608 (757) 812-7900

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

WINTER 2017

Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Course Details  

    

Who Should Attend

Resource materials developed especially for this course are included in the registration fee and will be mailed to all participants who pre-register. If you have previously attended the course and wish to take only the exam, you may register for that portion of the program only. Exam only participants can purchase the resource/study material at www.nrpa.org. All participants who pass the exam will be issued a Certified Playground Safety Inspector’s “CPSI” Certificate. Hotel reservations must be made separately – information is available at the bottom of this page. Total registration is limited to 80. No walk-ins are allowed for the course or exam. The exam is administered on the third and final day of the course.

        

Administrators Supervisors Risk Managers Public Works Departments Building & Grounds Maintenance Staff Engineers Architects Playground Equip. Representatives Operators & Caretakers of Playgrounds In: Parks o Schools o Camps o Homeowner Associations Hotels/Resorts o Day Care Centers Agencies such as: o YMCA’s/YWCA’s o Boys & Girls Clubs

About the Course According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, it is estimated that each year over 200,000 injuries occur on playgrounds and 70% of these occurred at public parks and schoolyards.



Sponsored by the National Recreation and Park Association this CPSI course is the most comprehensive training program on playground hazard identification and risk management methods offered anywhere. Advanced reading and fifteen hours of training from nationally known playground safety experts will prepare participants to sit for the Certified Playground Safety Inspector examination offered at the culmination of the certification course. Plan your registration and payment accordingly: A minimum of 3 weeks of study time is recommended; NRPA advises not to take the exam if materials have not been thoroughly read.

Program Highlights:  Hazard Identification  Safety Surfacing Materials  Playground Equipment Accessibility  Safety Management  Audit Objectives & Procedures  Maintenance Procedures & Standards  Off-site Park Visit

Schedule Day One- Wednesday 7:30- 8:00 AM 8:00- 8:45 AM 8:45 – 9:15 AM 9:15 – 9:30 AM 9:30 – 12:00 PM 12:00-1:00 PM 1:00 -2:45 PM

Registration Welcome & Introduction CPSI Program Break CPSI Program Lunch CPSI Program

2:45 - 3:00 PM 3:00 - 4:45 PM 4:45- 5:00 PM

Break CPSI Program Exam Preparation

Day 2-Thursday 8:00 – 9:15 AM 9:15 – 9:30 AM 9:30 – 11:45 AM

CPSI Program Break CPSI Program

Day 3- Exam Friday 8:00-9:00 AM Check in 9:00-11:00 AM Exam

11:45 – 12:00 PM

Questions & Answers

12:00 – 1:00 PM 1:00 – 3:15 PM

Lunch Site Investigation

3:15 – 3:30 PM 3:30 – 4:30 PM 4:30 – 5:00 PM

Break Site Investigation Wrap Up Questions & Answers Period

Hotel Information: Deadline is 3/7/16 or until the block is filled. Comfort Inn – Patrick Henry $69 + Tax/night, includes breakfast 12330 Jefferson Ave. Newport News, VA 23602 (757) 249-0200 Mention Virginia Recreation and Park Society

WINTER 2017

Thanks to CPSI sponsor Playground Guardian!

Virginia Recreation & Park Society