Meeting the Challenge

Fairfax County Park Authority • Annual Report: 2008 In Review

“Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising up every time we fail.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Water runs gently across the rocks in our cover photograph taken in the fall from the shoreline at Scotts Run Nature Preserve.

Photograph by Don Sweeney Fairfax County Park Authority

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Meeting The Challenge

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n 2008, the Fairfax County Park Authority welcomed 17 million visitors to our parks. We groomed our fields for nearly 200,000 field sport competitors. We endeavored to improve and lengthen our 300mile trail system in order to meet the crush of hiking enthusiasts who love to take a walk in the woods. We pulled countless non-native invasive plants and conducted controlled burns to protect native species and preserve our meadow areas. And we challenged our staff to cater to the needs of our customers through enhanced customer service training and the opening of new facilities such as South Run RECenter’s fitness center expansion, seven synthetic turf field conversion projects and restoration of historic sites such as the Sears House and Ox Hill Battlefield Park.

We completed an ambitious capital improvement program, became a nationally-accredited park agency and garnered the support of 68% of voters for a critical $65 million park bond that enables us to continue our forward momentum.

The Fairfax County Park Authority was up to the challenge in 2008!

Our Mission:

To set aside public spaces for and assist citizens in the protection and enhancement of environmental values, diversity of natural habitat and cultural heritage to guarantee that these resources will be available to both present and future generations. To create and sustain quality facilities and services which offer citizens opportunities for recreation, improvement of their physical and mental well-being, and enhancement of their quality of life.

Our Vision:

The Fairfax County Park Authority strives to inspire and sustain a passion for parks and leisure experiences that enhance our community’s quality of life.

Our Values: • Effective Communication • Fostering Diversity • Demonstrating Fiscal Responsibility • Developing Partnerships • Valuing Our Workforce • Providing Quality and Value • Enhancing Stewardship

Marsh grasses lie dormant in the central wetland at Huntley Meadows Park, patiently awaiting the arrival of spring.

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Parks by the Numbers • 24,138.24 acres of parkland and open space (as of December, 2008) • 416 parks

Clemyjontri Park in McLean

• Three lakefront parks • Nine RECenters • One skate park • 289 athletic fields • 11,176 classes held each year across the community • Seven off-leash dog parks • Eight golf courses • One ice skating rink • 201 playgrounds • Five nature centers • Eight summer performance series including hundreds of culturally diverse performances & movies!

• Over three million archaeological artifacts and 5,600 museum objects • One equestrian center • 52 REC Pac summer program sites • 37,477 registered weeks of Summer campers • 10 historic sites

• 8506 setwardship education programs held each year • 668 garden plots • One fully accessible playground and carousel • Two fantastic waterparks – one indoors, the other under sunny skies!

• 20 synthetic turf fields • Seven amphitheaters • More than 300 miles of trails • One observatory park • One working farm

(From left to right) From golf to exploring the planets and experiencing life at Kidwell Farm, the Park Authority offers a wide array of activities and programs.

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The Park Authority Board

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he Fairfax County Park Authority Board is appointed by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors.

These 12 appointees are comprised of one representative for each of the nine magisterial districts, plus three at-large members.

The Board sets policy and establishes priorities for the park agency. The Board holds public meetings on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month at 7:30 p.m. in the Herrity Building (12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 927, Fairfax, VA) located across from the Government Center complex. Meetings take place in the Board Meeting Room located on the ninth floor, room 941.

To contact a Board member or send a comment or concern, please send an e-mail to Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

(From top left to bottom right) Edward Batten, Sr., Lee District; Harold Y. Pyon, Springfield District; Marie Reinsdorf, At-large; Ken Quincy, Providence District; Gilbert S. McCutcheon, Mount Vernon District; Winifred S. Shapiro, Braddock District; Kevin J. Fay, Dranesville District; Frank Vajda, Treasurer, Mason District; Harold L. Strickland, Sully District; William G. Bouie, Chairman, Hunter Mill District; Harrison A. Glasgow, Vice Chairman, At-large; and George Lovelace, Secretary, At-large.

Find More Info Online For information regarding Board agendas visit: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/boardagn.htm.

To access information about Board members’ biographies and current committee assignments, schedule, etc. visit: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fcpaboard.htm.

You may contact the Public Information Office at 703-324-8662 for further information about Park Authority Board issues, calendars, archives, etc.

Documents of Interest: • Needs Assessment Final Report: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/needsassessment.htm

• 2006-2010 Strategic Plan www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/strategicplan/

• Comprehensive Annual Financial Report www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/CAFR.htm

• Park Policy Manual www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parkpolicy/

• Park Rules 4

www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parkrules/

Chairman’s message

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his is a very exciting time to be Chairman of the Fairfax County Park Authority Board. As never before, this Board and this agency are challenged to thrive in a new financial era where less must become more. The Park Authority must find new approaches to business that allow us to prosper. We must ensure the continuation of the legacy of excellence which has been a hallmark of this agency over the past 59 years.

In light of the current financial situation, I would like to see us be more creative in meeting our challenges.

The challenge ahead is thinking of new ways to create revenue opportunities. They may be found in partnerships and through grant dollars and in support of our Park Foundation which has only just begun to excel. Naming rights may also hold possibilities as well.

In 2008 we had a superb year. After an intense self-evaluation the Park Authority was visited by a team of judges from the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). Before the end of the year, the Park Authority was officially accredited. Not only did our peers state publicly that we were amongst the best of the best, but our staff met all 155 standards in the application, a rare event not often accomplished.

Voters in this community stood by us when we asked for support of our 11th park bond. In November, 68% of the voters said yes to our $65 million capital program. That kind of support helps all of us understand the importance Fairfax residents place on their parks and trails, cultural and natural resources, and the many opportunities we provide for recreation.

2008 brought a new agency director, seven new synthetic turf field conversions, a beautiful expansion of the fitness center at South Run RECenter, the rededication of Ox Hill Battlefield, restoration of the Sears House, and new approaches to park planning through Great Parks, Great Communities and the development of an urban park framework. There were awards for new programs and staff accomplishments. We recalled 30 years of archaeology, worked hand-in-hand with our volunteer workforce and even dealt with the challenges of hurricane-induced flooding.

In the coming year I am asking fellow board members to join me as we look to develop new revenue sources as well as a public arts component to our parks. We will continue to reap the benefits of our Energy Management Program and to educate the public about the importance of Invasive Plant Management and the avoidance of encroachments on parkland. Our parks will thrive and we will all benefit from that.

I hope you enjoy this report that gives us just a glance at the many important stories that comprise the Park Authority experience. We are blessed by dedicated, caring and capable staff members and a volunteer Park Authority Board willing to take on tough issues and lead us into the future. I have a passion for parks and hope you too will share the excitement and hope all of us feel for the future.

Warmest regards,

William G. Bouie, Chairman

William G. Bouie, Park Authority Board Chairman

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Winning Never Felt Better

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t is always nice to hear a thank you or to receive praise for a job well done. However, it is particularly gratifying when peers or others in the profession compare your work to national standards and you come out on top. This year’s awards include: 2008 Distinguished Volunteer Service Award Gilbert McCutcheon Park Authority Board Representative Mount Vernon District Virginia Recreation and Parks Society (VRPS) Best New Program Lose the Training Wheels Virginia Recreation and Parks Society (VRPS) Best Promotional Material/Circular Flyer Sully Forgotten Road Brochure Resource Management Division and Production Services Virginia Recreation and Parks Society (VRPS) Lawrence Fowler Award Gilbert McCutcheon Park Authority Board Representative Mount Vernon District Fairfax County Board of Supervisors MarCom Awards - Platinum Award Brochure: Handbook Non-native Invasive ID & Control Cards Marcom Awards - Gold Award Design: Annual Report Exploring the Possibilities: 2007 in Review MarCom Awards - Honorable Mention ResOURces Newsletter Silver Communicator Award ResOURces Newsletter International Academy of Visual Arts Blue Pencil Award Second Place: Government Newsletter ResOURces Newsletter National Association of Government Communicators Gold Screen Award Elly Doyle Park Services Video Mark Garrah, Production Services National Association of Government Communicators

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2008 “Armed and Dangerous” Team Award Invasive Management Area Volunteer Leaders Virginia Master Naturalists

Park Authority Board Member Gilbert S. McCutcheon was recognized for his 16 years of service as the Mount Vernon District representative with two major awards in 2008.

2008 Land Conservation Award Erosion and Sediment Control Category, Special Project Franconia Park Synthetic Turf, Field Number 4 Developer: Fairfax County Park Authority Engineer: Burgess & Niple Contractor: General Sport Venue Inspector: Jim Getts 2008 Landscape Conservation Award for Tree Planting Fairfax County Park Authority Turkeycock Run Restoration at Green Spring Department of Public Works and Urban Forestry GIS Excellence Awards Mike Johnson, Resource Management Division John Rutherford, Resource Management Division Department of Information Technology Laurel Hill Golf Club was recognized in four prestigious publications last year, including: • Golf Digest – Top Ten Best New Courses for 2007 (Awarded in January, 2008) • GolfStyles – Top 100 Courses in the Mid-Atlantic • Golfweek – Top Ten Public Access Courses in Virginia • The Washington Post – Five Star Rating – This is their highest honor and only four other courses in the MidAtlantic region received that rating.

A New Director Takes The Helm

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elcome to the Fairfax County Park Authority’s 2008 Year in Review! In short, Fairfax County Park Authority’s mission is to enrich the lives of our citizens through the stewardship of the community’s natural and cultural resources, and responsive provision of quality recreational opportunities. That mission was never more critical, and our ability to deliver on it never more tested than in 2008. During my first year as Director, I am very pleased to report that Fairfax County Park Authority rose to the challenge.

The focus of this year’s review is Meeting the Challenge. The challenges we face are nothing more than the opportunity to find new and better solutions. In a year that our nation saw the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, we looked inward for opportunities to find cost savings; we improved efficiency; and we enhanced the park authority’s ability to meet the challenges ahead. What a story we have to tell. As you John W. Dargle, Jr. read our 2008 In Review, you will see how FCPA has provided quality customer service, efficiently operated parks, worked on significant land and historical preservation projects, and offered a myriad of recreation programs, affordable activities, and year-round opportunities to get active.

Our 2008 results are remarkable given the circumstances we faced then and which continue to confront us.

Whatever challenges are still to come, FCPA offers you great value, outstanding personal service from people who really care, and the convenience of wonderful parks and facilities throughout Fairfax County. We are nationally recognized for the quality and diversity of our park and recreation system.

Thank you for your commitment and trust. We will continue to be good stewards of your Fairfax County Park Authority. Ultimately, FCPA’s strength comes from three essential components: a dynamic park system; our employees and volunteers, who care deeply about our resources; and you! Our work has been aided immeasurably through collaborations among our leadership, citizens, volunteers, and staff. We are proud of the energy and commitment that has enabled us to serve the people of Fairfax County and we look forward to the challenges that lie ahead.

Throughout 2009 we will focus our efforts on keeping the FCPA flourishing through this difficult economy; operating within our means by identifying mission essential services; preparing our workforce for the future; maintaining safe, clean, accessible parks; fostering alternative funding to diversify our assets; instituting an energy management program with cost savings; continuing to develop our partnerships; FY2008 FY2007 integrating public art into community life; building our Park Foundation as a viable Visitation - RECenters 1,778,914 1,773,319 resource for supplemental funding; and Visitation - Golf Rounds 322,175 318,117 repositioning FCPA as an effective change Visitation - Other Staffed Parks 3,119,160 3,175,552 agent for resolving community issues.

As I pause over the cover of this Field Adoptions - Full 72 68 report featuring a picturesque view of Field Adoptions Partial 66 61 the Potomac River from the shoreline at Scotts Run Nature Preserve, I am % of Fields Adopted 45% 45% reminded of the strength and longevity of the FCPA. Much like a river it has Volunteer Hours 196,153 189,042 its own natural beauty and function, but never underestimate the power and energy Cash Donations and Grants $2,662,195 $683,763 it contains.

John W. Dargle, Jr. Director

FY2008

FY2007

General Fund (001) - Expenditures

$26,084,327

$25,780,815

Park Authority/Revenue Fund (170) - Revenues

$38,534,873

$36,491,810

Park Authority/Revenue Fund (170) - Expenditures

$37,414,506

$35,151,551

Park Authority/Revenue Fund (170)- Net Revenue

$1,120,367

$1,340,259

County Construction Fund (303) - Expenditures

$8,250,929

$9,266,573

Park Bond Construction Fund (370) - Expenditures

$21,243,984

$35,010,772

Park Authority Capital Fund (371) - Expenditures

$1,899,380

$3,841,197

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On Time, And Under Budget Braddock Park Turf Arrives

The Fairfax County Department of Community and Recreation Services and the Fairfax County Athletic Council, as part of their 2008 Synthetic Turf Field Development Program, selected Braddock Park rectangular Field #7 for conversion to synthetic turf. The program is funded through athletic services application fees. Project costs were approximately $850,000. Officials and players from Southwestern Youth Association and Braddock Road Lacrosse gathered to break ground in March and later to cut the ribbon. The field officially opened on June 21.

A large crowd cut the ribbon at Braddock Park!

Hutchison School in Herndon gets Real

Progress continued to be made in the County’s efforts to dramatically increase the number of synthetic turf fields and to address the shortfall of rectangular fields county wide with the opening of Hutchison School Site synthetic turf field. This was a joint effort between local schools, county government and park system. The $2.7 million project completed the second phase of site improvements with the provision of a lighted rectangular synthetic turf field as well as a low-impact storm water management system and 100 parking spaces. Ribbon cutting ceremonies were held in April.

Franconia Park Gets Lights and Turf

Folks were ready with shovels as yet another synthetic turf project broke ground last spring. Franconia Park was selected to receive bond funding for turf and lighting. Project costs were approximately $1 million. Ribbon cutting ceremonies took place in mid-September.

The Power of Teamwork

New lights and turf feel great!

The power of teamwork and cooperation were evident at Bryant Alternative High School as construction began on another synthetic turf field conversion project last April. The project was a joint effort between the Board of Supervisors, the Fairfax County School Board and the Park Authority Board. Funding for the $800,000 effort was provided in the 2006 Park Bond.

Community in Action

Munson Hill Park just isn’t what it used to be. It is so much better, due in large measure to the community activists who have taken this park under their wing and worked hand-in-hand with Mason District Supervisor Penny Gross and the Park Authority to make improvements to the popular green space. A community plant sale, held in cooperation with Merrifield Garden Center, helped raise funds to improve the park. These dollars were used to purchase and install additional playground materials as well as a custom designed, colorful playground surface.

Combined with a Mastenbrook matching grant, sufficient funding made a wonderful difference for local families. The community can make an important difference when people join together for the common good.

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Look good at Munson Hill

L.I.D. Technology

A Big Impact From Low Impact

Supervisor Penny Gross joins in ribbon cutting at LID parking lot.

The Fifth Annual Children’s Diversity Day at Hidden Oaks Nature Center was an opportunity for cultural exchanges and much more. It was a day of performance and fun, education and appreciation for the wide assortment of residents with unique ethnicity and cultural diversity that makes Fairfax County a wonderful place to live.

However, another very important event took place right beside the cultural celebration: the ribbon cutting for the low-impact parking lot, a project that celebrates the ethos of Earth Day and touts the importance of going green wherever possible.

Officials and friends honor John McAnaw.

What’s In a Name?

Over the past two decades John McAnaw has made valuable contributions to the care and maintenance of the trails and park lands surrounding Royal Lake. His contributions have protected the environment and also allowed countless others to enjoy this natural area.

Naming a section of the trail in his honor was a popular action taken by Board of Supervisors Chairman Sharon Bulova, then serving as the Braddock District representative. The John P. McAnaw Woodlands & Recreation Area includes the area from the parking lot at Royal Lake to the west end of the dam.

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WORK

The Low Impact Development (LID) parking area at Hidden Oaks Nature Center was the recipient of a 2008 Community Appearance Alliance Award. A parking lot’s beauty is limited in large measure by its functionality; however, when the design concept of “form follows function” is applied, it’s a winner.

The project is elegant in its ability to mimic functions of nature and attractive in its simplicity.

LID is an innovative storm water management approach with a basic principle that is modeled after nature: manage rainfall at the source using uniformly distributed, decentralized microscale controls.

LID’s goal is to mimic a site’s predevelopment hydrology by using design techniques that infiltrate, filter, store, evaporate and detail runoff close to its source. The project was completed at a cost of $385,000 funded in the 2004 Park Bond.

Partnerships Bring More Fields to Reality

Let’s face it, funding is tight and working with community sports organizations to get new fields built may be the best choice for all involved parties. A new era of cooperation and partnership was ushered in with two synthetic turf field conversion projects at Spring Hill Park in Mclean in 2008. The Board of Supervisors, the Park Authority Board and McLean Youth Soccer (MYS) brought the conversion of Fields #2 and #3 to reality. The $1.8 million project, fully-funded by MYS, provides state-of-the-art athletic fields for their players and the community at large and assists the Park Authority Hundreds turned out to dedicate the field funded by MYS. in finding new financial means by which to address the shortage of rectangular fields in Fairfax County.There was a tremendous celebration in late fall with enthusiastic coaches and players who turned out for the ribbon cutting celebration.

Picnics in the Shade of the Pavilion

Picnics are an American tradition. At Frying Pan Farm Park picnics just got a whole lot more comfortable with the completion of a 2,400 square foot picnic pavilion. Through careful planning, color and material selection, this modern, pre-engineered structure blends seamlessly into the rural setting. Located adjacent to the site’s Visitor’s Center, this $350,000 project found funding through the American’s With Disabilities Act, site Fresh ice cream and ribbon cutting drew monopole revenues, district proffer funding as well as the 2004 Park Bond. Supervisor Hudgins and Friends to FPFP. There is little debate as to whether this investment will be enjoyed for generations to come.

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On Time, And Under Budget Play Ball on the First Synthetic Turf Diamond!

Stephen Paul Black Field has always been a special place at Nottoway Park. The field, named in memory of a young player, became the first synthetic turf conversion project on a diamond field. The project on the 60-foot diamond broke ground on June 21. Field improvements are funded at this site through proffers as well as the 2006 Park Bond. Total project costs were $540,000. Working closely with the Providence District Field Task Force, and the Department of Community and Recreation Stephen Paul Black Field Services, this field was selected for turf conversion.

The results are stunning and the players love it!

Rain did not stop dedication of the new field.

Change at the Core Of Lake Fairfax Park Lake Fairfax Park just does not look the same due in large measure to the construction of a new administration building, restrooms, vending kiosk, 136-space paved parking area, the installation of 11 rain gardens, pedestrian walkways and storm water management facilities. The transition from old, tired, worn out facility to a bright and appealing building is remarkable. Total project costs were $5.3 million. This construction was considered Phase II of a multi-phase project. Phase I improvements included construction of an ADA accessible lakefront marina which was completed in 2006. Standby for new, lakefront picnic pavilions going into construction in the near future.

Getting to the Bottom of Things

The new administration building is one of many site improvements.

The dredging of Lake Accotink was completed in 2008. In partnership with the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES), the Park Authority approved plans to hydraulically dredge 161,000 cubic yards of sediment from the lake and dispose of the material at an off-site location. The dredging work started in July 2005. During the course of the work it was determined to dredge an additional 43,000 cubic yards of sediment for a total of 204,000 cubic yards. Activities to stabilize the disposal site after the completion of the dredging operations are expected to be complete in spring 2009.

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Dredging was completed at Lake Accotink Park.

Yes We Can! Park Bonds Address Capital Needs

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or the eleventh time in the past 59 years voters in Fairfax County said yes to a Park Authority bond program. After ten successful bond referendums totaling $398 million, 68% of all voters came out to support the Park Bond.

What’s in the latest bond program? More projects like the ones highlighted in this report, as well as a robust land acquisition program, renovation funding and dollars that will help support Park Authority efforts to protect and preserve natural, cultural and historic resources.

A ten-year Capital Improvement Plan, developed as part of the 2004 Needs Assessment, identified $377 million in capital needs including land acquisition, new facilities and renovations. That amount has escalated to $435 million in 2007 dollars. Since 2004, $90 million of this need has been funded through general obligation bonds. This newest bond approval will provide $65 million more to address these needed projects.

The bond provides $14.38 million for land acquisition. These funds will be used to acquire new parkland through purchase, conservation easements and other mechanisms such as trail easements.

The acquisition program targets sites that meet established criteria, such as areas of high-deficiency, adjacency to existing parks to expand recreational opportunities, and lands to protect significant natural and cultural resources. Private sector and community-based cooperation is sought to leverage the cost-effectiveness of acquisition monies through easements and donations of land and funds.

The Park Development Program includes $19.23 million to develop new park facilities and infrastructure. Projects include $6.23 million for conversion of synthetic turf fields, $1.48 million to add more trails to the existing network, as well as $11.52 million to fund Mastenbrook matching grants, construct a new skate park at Lake Fairfax, expand Wakefield Skatepark, and fund picnic shelters throughout the system. Other projects include a small rolltop Observatory in Great Falls, infrastructure improvements at Spring Hill RECenter, a Family Recreation Area at Lee District Park, stable replacement at Frying Pan Farm Park and clubhouse replacement at Burke Lake Golf Course.

Park and Building Renovations are funded at $19.74 million. These dollars address renovation needs at Park Authority RECenters. Most facilities were built in the 1980s and 1990s and are in need of renovation and repairs. Other renovations include replacement of the 41-year-old train tracks at Burke Lake Park, irrigation systems at Jefferson Golf Course and improvements at Kings Park Park and Ossian Hall Park.

A new bond category provides for Stewardship Projects. These capital projects include wetland restoration and boardwalk replacement at Huntley The 2008 Park Bond provided capital funding for many projects across the county, as well as land acquisition and Meadows Park, restoration of Historic Huntley stewardship.

Mansion, mandatory dam repairs, design of the Colvin Run Mill Visitor Center, conceptual design for a Stewardship Education Center as well as natural resource protection projects in Sully Woodlands and Laurel Hill.

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Protecting Our Historic Past Ox Hill Battlefield Park

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x Hill Battlefield Park reopened on Monday, September 1, 2008, upon the completion of a $700,000 project to construct new trails and install historic interpretive kiosks and signage, as well as to conduct landscape restoration and parking improvements. The re-dedication ceremonies and activities drew hundreds of visitors, re-enactors, living history enthusiasts and politicians on the 146th anniversary of the historic Civil War battle where 2,100 troops were killed or wounded during fighting in a torrential thunderstorm. Among the dead two Union generals: Major General Philip Kearney and Brigadier General Isaac I. Stevens.

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Re-enactors and Civil War history enthusiasts made Ox Hill’s rededication a memorable event. The park reveals an enigmatic tale of heroism and sacrifice.

Special Delivery Sears [Spindle] House

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uring the Great Depression, Roger Spindle, a mail supervisor for the United States Post Office Department, purchased a kit house from Sears, Roebuck & Company. He selected a Sears catalog house because it was affordable and easy to assemble. He got the money to purchase the land and the Sears kit home through the Emergency Farm Mortgage Act of 1933, a part of President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal program.

Spindle selected the Brentwood model from the catalog, opting to build a kit home close to his family. He paid $1,244. The building materials were shipped from Chicago to the Clifton Station in early 1934. The house came by railway in two boxes that held approximately 30,000 pieces. Also included were floor plans, elevations and personalized instruction book to guide the homeowner. The front of the house was constructed to face Mount Gilead Road. The house featured four livable rooms –living room, kitchen, two bedrooms and bath.

The Spindle House, located in Historic Centreville, was painstakingly refurbished by the Resource Management Division.

(Below) ribbon cutting ceremonies, the home’s modest interior and a tour in progress.

Michael Rierson painstakingly led restoration efforts and still leads tours.

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Archaeology in action

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rchaeologically speaking, 30 years is not much time. However, the past three decades have provided an essential opportunity for the discovery, study and protection of cultural resources in Fairfax County. Virginia is one of the richest historical areas in all of America. Events that shaped our country’s history happened right here in Fairfax County.

Traces of that history are all around us and preserving those links to the past is important.

County-sponsored professional archaeological activities began in 1978. Since then, County archaeologists have identified, studied and recorded more than 3,500 historic and prehistoric county sites.

The Cultural Resource Management and Protection team has four primary tasks: • To inventory, document, protect and interpret historic and archaeological resources on

parklands.

• Conduct development planning review prior to construction.

• Participate in the planning process for new and existing parkland.

• Educate staff and the public about historic and archaeological resources, their protection and the destruction caused by relic hunting.

The archaeologists of the Cultural Resource Management and Protection team find evidence of Native American life, early exploration, our colonial past, 19th century development and the Civil War, adding to the heritage of the county and the nation. This includes illuminating the history of people who did not necessarily write it for themselves - Native Americans, African Americans, both enslaved and free, women and children, and other ordinary county citizens.

The Cultural Resource Management and Protection offices are housed in the James Lee Community Center in Falls Church. The Lee Center is home to three labs that are used by staff and volunteers to clean, analyze, and catalog prehistoric and historic artifacts. The center is also home to archival space which contains the county’s collection of over three million artifacts, spanning the last 13,000 years of Fairfax County’s history.

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(Above) Fairfax County offers hidden treasures explored by staff and volunteer archaeologists. (Left) Staff care for over three million artifacts.

Hidden Pond Nature Center

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n October 4, 2008, Hidden Pond Nature Center celebrated its 30th year of bringing nature to the public. Hidden Pond is one of five nature centers in the park system that provide hands-on educational opportunities for thousands of school-children, scouts and families each year.

Hidden Pond Nature Center Manager Jim Pomeroy recalls the early days “In 1978, Hidden Pond opened its doors with the clear mission to make nature more accessible to the families of Fairfax County.

Before home computers, before the Internet, before Perched on a hill, Hidden Pond Nature Center offers visitors a view of the pond below.

Google, before cell phones, Hidden Pond was the place people could go to with their questions about the natural world around them.�

During the intervening years, exhibits have been built, experienced and replaced. The pond has had major renovations twice, and miles of trails have been created. More than one million visitors have stopped in during the past 20 years and in the past 15 years alone, more than 75,000 volunteer hours have been donated.

At 25 acres, this park with its tranquil pond and quiet trails, lies adjacent to the 700-acre Pohick Stream Valley. A new 2,000-foot trail and bridge connects the stream valley and Hidden Pond. The Friends of Hidden Pond contribute regularly to the maintenance and enhancement of the park amenities and programming.

Hidden Pond Nature Center has more than 50,000 visitors each year. Pictured with many of the volunteers who provide more than 75,000 hours of service each year are (left to right) Springfield District Park Authority Board Member Harold Pyon; (center) former Board of Supervisors Chairman Gerry Connolly; Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity; President of the Friends of Hidden Pond Nature Center and Pohick Stream Valley Susan Susa, and former Park Authority Board Member Ken Feng.

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Reaching Out To A Diverse Community Community Connections In Action

As part of a long-term strategy to listen to, engage and build trust with the international community, Community Connections continues to help the Park Authority connect with increasingly diverse customers, park users and park supporters. Bilingual employees provide support to Park Authority sites with translation support, program development, and marketing through foreign language media.

Increasing awareness of park programs and services is behind the Western Fairfax and Bailey’s Multicultural Community Days. These one-day outreach events brought together more than 30 agencies, community groups and private businesses. Diverse crowds of more than 500 at each event enjoyed free food and international entertainment throughout the day. The events laid the foundation for future cooperative outreach in these areas.

Community Connections forged a partnership with Nadar Por Vida (Swimming for Life) to provide competitive swimming opportunities for Latino youth from atrisk backgrounds. Based at the Park Authority’s Providence RECenter, the program currently serves more than 50 students from nearby middle schools with dozens of volunteer teachers, students and counselors from the schools and community.

Music in the Parks

The Park Authority’s free Summer Entertainment Series bring music and performances to citizens across the county each summer. More than 70,000 attendees enjoyed 200 events including concerts, international music, children’s performances and an old-fashioned drive-in movie series. Enjoy Arts in the Parks, Braddock Nights, Lee District Nights, Spotlight by Starlight in Mason District, The Sounds of Summer, and Starlight Cinema. New this year was the first Mount Vernon District Nights Concert series held at Grist Mill Park. The Park Authority Events & Volunteers Section collected $243,231 in sponsorship contributions to support the summer entertainment series.

New Fallproof Program Steadies Seniors Health and wellness needs of seniors is a top priority and the Fairfax County Park Authority introduced “FallProof ” at several RECenters to address the leading cause of death for citizens ages 65 and older – falling down. FallProof, the first fall risk-reduction program of its kind, seeks to provide balance training to help seniors maintain mobility and independence. Comprehensive assessments by certified “FallProof™” Balance and Mobility Specialists, customized small group lessons and individual consultations have made this program very popular at RECenters.

Find More Information Online www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/performances 16

Having fun & feeling good Camps Rock

What’s a kid to do? The choice isn’t easy in Fairfax with so much to do. The Park Authority provided 868 summer camp sessions, over 150 different types of camps.

Summer camp registrations hit another all-time high with 18,308 camp registrations in 2008 and revenue exceeding the $4 million mark. There is always something new, and this summer kids experienced Cybercamps, Chess Camp, Art Explorers, Roots & Shoots, Kiddie Gymnastics and Field Hockey.

Rec PAC, the Park Authority’s very affordable summer day camp, had more than 19,000 registrations. Rec PAC fills a need by serving higher numbers of low-income and diverse children. More than 1,000 of the neediest children received scholarships to attend Rec PAC at one of 52 locations around the County. And the Park Authority’s PACT program (Parks and Community Together) raised more than $36,000 to send 38 children to summer camp.

Exploring at camp

Roots and Shoots

2008 was a banner year for the recently established Roots & Shoots Jr. Volunteer Program. Spring Hill RECenter’s Roots and Shoots program received national attention when they were one of four groups spotlighted in the April issue of ODYSSEY Adventures in Science Magazine.

The group was also selected by Dr. Jane Goodall to be a part of her presentation on Youth Volunteerism at a national teaching conference in the nation’s capital.

The group also earned Volunteer Fairfax’s Youth Volunteer Group of the Year and received nominations for USA Weekend Magazine’s National Make a Difference Day Project of the Year, the Virginia Governor’s Volunteerism and Community Service Award and the President’s Environmental Youth Award.

Making a difference....

Based on the success of Spring Hill’s pilot program, seven additional RECenter Roots and Shoots junior volunteer groups were established and contributed in excess of 3,100 hours of volunteer service this past year.

Find More Information Online

www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/rec_camps.htm

Performances throughout the community featured international faire.

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2008: The Challenges we met Remembering a Friend The Park Authority dedicated a Memorial Garden in honor of the late Georgette Kohler, an at-large member of the Park Authority Board, who passed away in 2008. Her garden, located in the Long Border at Green Spring Gardens, is a vibrant reminder of the service and passion, humor and dedication that defined Ms. Kohler. She was appointed to the Park Board in January 2004 and was reappointed in January 2008.

Georgette, in both her professional and civic life, was recognized for her leadership, creativity and consensus building. She loved to garden and enjoyed the simplicity and beauty of a well-kept bed of flowers and plants.

Moving the Past at Oakton

Representatives from Chevy Chase Bank joined Providence Supervisor Linda Smyth and representatives from the Park Authority Board and agency staff at the Oakton Schoolhouse to receive a check for $200,000. The funding provides an endowment for the historic structure which was moved to its new home on Hunter Mill Road in Oakton and renovated. Schoolhouse renovations were completed in accordance with national standards for work on historic structures to its period of significance at the turn of the century. There is no public access inside the structure which was built in 1897.

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(Far right) Crowds came out to see the schoolhouse move to its new home.

Chevy Chase Bank supports this County effort!

Skating Into The Future

It’s hard to imagine that it was four years ago that Wakefield Skate Park went into action, fast becoming a favorite spot. Revenues were up as were the number of young people who participated in a wide array of great programs and special events.

Late night sessions for those 14 and up were held on Saturday nights during the summer. Skating until midnight has its own special feel! The Skate Park also held competitions for skateboarders and inline skaters.

Dozens of local skaters showcased their talent. This year promises more of same outrageous fun.

Tropical Storm Hannah

Flooding from Tropical Storm Hanna kept Park Operations and site staff hopping as parking lots turned to rivers, trails washed out and the tops of fencing became submerged.

Fields were underwater and the Park Authority sustained damage at numerous sites including Lake Accotink, Lakeside Park, American Park and other spots as well. September was a wet one with torrential tropical rains but as soon as the rain stopped, the clean up began.

Tropical Storm Hannah careened up the coast leaving destruction in its wake. Bridges were washed out, parking lots flooded, fields turned to ponds, and parkland was inundated. Site staff and Park Operations staff began the massive clean-up.

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South Run RECenter Expanding

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ver the past 30 years a fitness revolution has changed the way Americans exercise. Across the country researchers find that nearly 25% of the population participates regularly in physical fitness activities. At South Run RECenter, the recently completed, light-filled, spacious fitness center addition has been welcomed with enthusiasm and record attendance.

On March 22, 2006, the Park Authority Board approved the scope for construction of the Fitness Room expansion. This approval set in motion the construction of a 7,000 square foot addition, a 65-space parking lot expansion, reconstruction of the storm water detention pond and related site improvements.

South Run District Park is a 192-acre park. Within the park is the South Run RECenter that opened to the public in 1988. The park’s master plan indicated the need for an additional fitness center and program space and recommended expansion at the current site. The 2003 Needs Assessment report supported that contention, noting that Fairfax County had a deficiency of recreation center space and that fitness center use opportunities were inadequate.

These findings were embraced by the agency and community. The 2004 Park Bond program included funding in the amount of $3.5 million for the addition of a fitness room and related work at South Run RECenter.

In early July 2003, the Park Board agreed to transfer additional funding for the project in the amount of $800,000 for a total project budget of $4.3 million.

Ground was broken in the spring of 2007.

More than 250,000 people use the RECenter each year, yet the center was the second smallest of the Park Authority’s nine RECenters. The expansion coincided with the RECenters 20th anniversary and presented a great opportunity for celebration. The open, contemporary design features a wide, gently curving glass wall on both top and lower levels.

Exercise machines look out at green space and nearby woods. The change is inspiring to those who appreciate great design and eye-pleasing aesthetics and for those who want a quality workout.

Feeling good has never felt better.

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Supervisor Pat Herrity and Park Board Member Harold Pyon join with others to cut the ribbon at South Run RECenter. Floor to ceiling light brightens everyone’s day and offers a welcoming view of the woods. The latest in equipment and staff expertise make this a popular place for exercise.

Fairfax County Park Foundation A Year of Renewal and Rebuilding 2008 was a year of renewal and rebuilding for the Park Foundation. There was a lot of work to be done as new leadership began the task of examining existing policies and procedures, looking to expand opportunities for giving and encouraging the recruitment of capable Foundation Board members who are excited about the opportunities and challenges ahead.

New Leadership A new team drawn from the business and philanthropic communities was elected to lead the Foundation Board. The members of the Board’s Executive Committee are: Chairman Craig Stevens, a partner in Aronson & Company Vice Chair Kathryn Ward, Senior Vice President of the American Institute for Cancer Research John R. Eakin, Jr., Chairman, Eakin Properties, Inc. Bruce McLeod, Senior Vice President, Commonwealth Consultants Stephen Thormahlen, Managing Director of the PNC Wealth Management Group Paul Baldino was appointed Executive Director of the Park Foundation, returning after retiring five years ago as the Park Authority director and serving as a Foundation Board member. Baldino was instrumental in the creation of the Foundation in 2000.

Fundraising in Action The Park Foundation transferred over $515,000 to the Park Authority in 2008, a record amount for a single year. This includes grants of $93,000 for improvements to Clemyjontri Park and $23,750 for Historic Huntley.

The Foundation received its first endowment, a $100,000 gift from Chevy Chase Bank, now Bank One, for the perpetual operation and maintenance of the Oakton Schoolhouse.

Other major donors in 2008 included the Gene Olmi, Jr. Family Foundation, Craig and Belinda Stevens, SAIC and the Peterson Family Foundation.

From left to right are Paul Baldino, Executive Directo Secretary; Kathryn r; Bruce McLeod, Ward, Vice Chair; and Craig Steven s, Chairman.

New Ways to Give There are new, convenient ways to support parks by becoming a park donor: • Visit our redesigned website at www.fairfaxparkfoundation.org • Give at your workplace via the United Way and Combined Federal Campaign • Shop for parks by signing on to Amazon.com and e-Bay from the Park Foundation website. A percentage of your purchase will be donated to Fairfax County parks • Donate your vehicle to the Foundation Fairfax County Park Foundation • Participate in planned giving through a will or bequest ph. 703-324-8581 www.fairfaxparkfoundation.org • Donate through honorary and memorial gifts

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Protecting the Land

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he Park Authority continually looks for ways to expand and enhance park land and open space in order to afford new active recreational opportunities, to provide for the stewardship of our natural resources, and to protect and preserve cultural and archeological treasures. These goals can be accomplished through the acquisition of new parkland, conservation easements to protect critical resources and open space, securing development rights for park development projects, and acquisition of trail easements to expand the county’s trail networks. All of these contribute to the Park Authority’s efforts to provide a robust park system for the residents of Fairfax County.

The Park Authority purchased the DeBoeck property as an addition to Green Spring Gardens.

The parcel will help in the protection of the headwaters of Turkeycock Run and the nearby magnolia bog.

During 2008 we have incorporated the following properties into the park system: • In February, the Board of Supervisors transferred two parcels to the Park Authority. Frying Pan Stream Valley Park was expanded with the addition of 24.17 acres, and Difficult Run Stream Valley was enlarged with the addition of 27 acres.

• The Park Authority acquired the Pease and Williams properties located in the Mount Vernon District in May. The properties total 3.05 acres, with the Pease property being the larger of the two parcels at 1.96 acres and the Williams property at 1.09 acres. The properties became part of Old Colchester Park and Preserve.

• Fairfax Villa Park was expanded in June with the vacation of an unnamed street and the conveyance of 1.02 acres to the Park Authority. The vacation had been requested as part of the master plan process for the park.

• The Park Authority purchased 0.98 acres from Anny B. De Boeck. This acquisition provides an addition to Green Spring Gardens and helps preserve the headwaters of Turkeycock Run and the ecologically sensitive magnolia bog within the park.

• In July the Park Authority received from the Board of Supervisors three parcels in Lee District totaling 26.77 acres. This acreage was added to Huntley Meadows Park.

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• The Park Authority added 41.6 acres to park land following the acquisition of the Ingersoll property. The September acquisition provided an important link in the creation of a contiguous land mass between the Horne, Cunigan and Board of Supervisor’s 13 properties, all of which are now part of Poplar Ford Park in Sully District.

The Ingersoll property provides an important link in the creation of a contiguous land mass in western Fairfax County.

• The Park Authority purchased 1.93 acres from Kenneth Thompson in October. This acquisition in Dranesville District provides a critical link in the Pimmit Run Stream Valley trail.

New names abound in Sully Woodlands including Poplar Ford Park.

• As the year drew to a close, Uniwest dedicated 0.39 acres within Merrifield Town Center as a public park. This is an addition to the new urban park in Providence District which includes outdoor seating, a dancing water fountain feature, small grassy, treed areas, and a raised, open “stage” area for small gatherings. The local condominium association will maintain the fountain feature and the grassy areas.

• In December, the Park Authority acquired three adjoining parcels in the Sully District from Dennis and Karen Hogge. The parcels total 2.49 acres and will become part of Historic Centreville Park.

The Pease property became part of the Old Colchester Park and Preserve in Mount Vernon.

Open Space Preservation Open space is disappearing. County residents can do something about it.

The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors established the Open Space Land Preservation Fund in 2001 to give residents a way to take direct, personal action to conserve the county’s shrinking open space.

Air and water quality improve when land is preserved. Open space buffers noise, reduces storm water runoff, provides wildlife habitat and supports recreational activities. Open space also requires limited infrastructure and county services, so it contains the cost of government.

Donors to the Open Space Fund help protect the character of Fairfax County and leave a legacy of open space and parks for future generations. Here are properties the Open Space Fund has already helped the county purchase: • • • •

• • •

27.9 acres along Old Colchester Road in Lorton, added to Mason Neck West Park Six acres on Glen Carlyn Road near Seven Corners that will become Boyd and Charlotte Hogge Park Eight and a-half acres along Sideburn Road in Fairfax, added to Woodglen Lake Park Five and a half acres near the southeast corner of Braddock Road and the Fairfax County Parkway in Fairfax, added to Patriot Park 16 acres along Waples Mill Road in Oakton, added to Waples Mill Meadow Park Four acres along Walney Road in Chantilly, added to Rocky Run Stream Valley Park 238 acres along Bull Run Post Office Road in Centreville, added to Sully Woodlands Park

Because of economic conditions, the Park Authority has a window of opportunity to purchase additional land at bargain prices. A gift today to the Open Space Land Preservation Fund will save more land from development than was possible with the same donation just a few years ago. We believe and hope that the current economic situation won’t last long, so it is essential that we act now.

If you want a part in saving Fairfax County’s open land and natural resources, contribute to the Fairfax County Park Foundation’s Open Space Land Preservation Fund or call 703-324-8581.

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When Less is More

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Energy Management

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ationwide, people are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, while also improving energy efficiency, and quality of service and lowering the costs of energy. The Fairfax County Park Authority hired an energy manager in 2008 and one year later adopted an Energy Management Plan aimed at increasing energy conservation, lowering costs and reducing carbon emissions.

Already, these changes are making a positive difference.

At Providence RECenter in Falls Church, lighting and control system retrofits were made in August 2008. By February 2009, as a result of energy conservation efforts in the swimming pool area, racquetball courts, fitness center, lobby, hallways and activity rooms, energy use had dropped by 60% in these areas. Overall, the facility electricity costs were lowered by 20%, and officials believe that the investment in these projects will be paid back by these savings within three years.

There are other projects underway Upgraded lights brighten the fitness that are equally promising. Anticipate center and use half the wattage. savings linked to mechanical systems and solar systems as well. A bright idea whose time has come.

Upgraded lighting illuminates the racquetball court on the right.

Providence RECenter Swimming Pool Lighting Upgrade

Before Lighting Upgrade 34.8 Kilowatts

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After Lighting Upgrade 13.3 Kilowatts

Providence RECenter saw the benefits of the new Energy Management program as the pool area brightened up considerably with new lighting upgrades, fresh paint, and other retrofits. These projects are the first of many aimed at reducing the costs of energy, as well as improving the efficiency and, ultimately, saving resources!

Urban Park Planning Takes Shape The Parks of Tomorrow

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he parks of tomorrow may look very different from the parks many of us grew up with. Getting ready to make that transition to urban parks is a task already underway, driven in large measure by the approaching transformation of Tysons Corner. The Park Authority, through land use studies and the creation of an urban park framework, hopes to provide the foundation for transitioning the Fairfax County Park system from suburban to urban in designated growth and revitalization centers.

Merrifield Park

Urban Parks Framework In the spring of 2008, an interagency planning team representing the Park Authority, the Department of Planning and Zoning and the Office of Community Revitalization and Reinvestment convened to gain a common understanding of the function and design of urban parks as they apply in Fairfax County, particularly in Tysons Corner, and the County’s revitalization areas. The team developed a draft Urban Parks Framework that will be used to plan for and develop urban parks in the county’s urbanizing centers.

The draft document is currently being reviewed by stakeholders including the county’s elected and appointed officials, staff from various county agencies, the Fairfax Arts Council, and members of the development community. This document will serve to clarify expectations for developers, county staff and community decision makers to ensure that new urban developments will provide for park and recreation needs in the County’s growth areas.

Tysons Corner Special Land Use Study On September 22, 2008, the Tysons Corner Land Use Task Force concluded three years of work by presenting its “Transforming Tysons” vision plan to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. The land use concept outlined in the “Transforming Tysons” vision plan would allow for significant population and employment growth and change. Implementation of the plan would transform Tysons into a model livable place with compact, mixed-use districts where over 95 percent of all development will be within walking distance of transit. Land uses in Tysons would be mixed, allowing people to live, work, play, and participate in the arts and civic life of a vibrant 24-hour community.

To date Park Authority staff and Board members actively participated in the Tysons Corner Land Use Task Force efforts. This participation has resulted in raising public awareness of park benefits, needs and issues and more importantly, resulted in the inclusion of a park network to be integrated within the mix of uses in future Tysons Corner. Park planning staff researched and proposed new urban park land service level standards that were adopted by the Park Authority Board. Staff will continue to participate in efforts to amend the Comprehensive Plan to ensure that a full urban park network is included in future plans for Tysons Corner.

The Urban Parks Framework ensures new urban developments provide recreational amenities.

Merrifield Park Plan

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Elly Doyle Park Service Awards Park Authority Saddles Up For Volunteers

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he 2008 Elly Doyle Park Service Awards brought out the cowpoke in everyone! The theme was western with fiddlers on hand, lots of ten-gallon hats, cactus and chuck wagons and the best volunteers this side of the Rio Grande! It was a night to honor and celebrate the selfless contribution of time and talent by hundreds of Park Authority volunteers.

The Park Authority Board presented the Elly Doyle Park Service Awards to Dr. Carolyn Williams and Marianne Mooney. Student Honorees included the Hidden Pond Nature Center’s Envirothon Team and Spring Hill RECenter’s Roots and Shoots program. Special Recognition was given to Jim Crouch and Mimi Pollow, and to Ken and Sally Duvall.

Outstanding Volunteers selected by their peers included the Baha’is of McLean, Bozica Baumuller, Bernie DeLury, Mary Dettra, Geri Hirai, Dick Hoffman, Bill Hughes, the Invasive Management Area Botanists Team, Carl Kachauskas, Carl Knabe, Linda Lindemuth, Dr. David McLean, Dorothy Norpel, Cherie Pratte, Cheryl-Ann Repetti, Marilyn Schroeder, David Scull, Karla Seabolt, Barry Stoll, Anne, Maria and Angela Tulloch, Rachel Wilkinson and Chrystal and Rob Young.

The Sally Ormsby Environmental Stewardship Award was presented to Robin Rentsch of Great Falls, VA. Congressman Gerry Connolly and Park Board Chairman Hal Strickland make presentations.

Elly Doyle Park Service Award Winners

Dr. Carolyn Williams and Marianne Mooney

Student Honorees

Spring Hill RECenter’s Roots and Shoots and Hidden Pond Nature Center’s Envirothon Team

Special Recognition

Jim Crouch, Mimi Pollow, and Ken and Sally Duvall

Sally Ormsby Environmental Stewardship Award 26

Robin Rentsch

Supervisor Penny Gross

The New Old-Timers Band provided pre-celebration entertainment!

The Parkettes perform.

Park Board Member Harry Glasgow was the able Master of Ceremonies.

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Taking the Path Less Traveled

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rails folks never rest, completing one project while planning the next. That was true in 2008 as staff and volunteers worked hand-in-hand to complete significant trail projects at Lake Accotink as well as at Cub Run. This is one aspect of a robust and popular trail development and maintenance effort that results in new trails, improved trails and outreach to the community. Meanwhile designs are underway for a reroute of the Cross County Trail in the Pohick Stream Valley, upgrades to three fairweather crossings and a pedestrian and equestrian bridge over Clarks Branch in Riverbend Park.

The 7th Annual Trail Caucus was well-attended and the enthusiasm level was high. Discussion focused on the “Great Parks, Great Communities” planning effort, the Park Authority trail mapping project, completed and ongoing trail construction projects, and outstanding trail volunteers.

The CCT continues to improve.

Walking the Walk at Lake Accotink

The Fairfax County Park Authority completed construction of the Accotink Stream Valley Trail from Lake Accotink to Hunter Village Drive. This project consists of significant improvements to the Cross County Trail (CCT). The 2004 Park Bond, 2006 Park Bond, the Virginia Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration provided funding for this project.

This project consisted of construction of approximately 2.3 miles of ADA accessible asphalt trail and related structures, three steel pedestrian bridge crossings and ADA accessible parking spaces in Byron Ave Park and Lake Accotink Park. In addition, one pedestrian underpass under Old Keene Mill Road was constructed, thereby eliminating the at-grade crossing of the CCT on this busy road. The total cost for this project was $2,091,239. The project was completed in nine months, approximately four months ahead of schedule.

Now it’s an easy walk to Cub Run RECenter.

Cub Run Connector Links Community and Recreation

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The Cub Run Connector was a project the community embraced. The project consists of a paved trail, fair-weather crossing, and 75-foot pedestrian bridge over Cub Run that connects from Samuels Pine Road. in the Pleasant Valley subdivision to the Cub Run RECenter, as well as a paved trail and 40foot pedestrian bridge over Schneider Branch that connects from the Cub Run Stream Valley Park to the trails along Stonecroft Boulevard. The project was funded by the 2004 and 2006 Park Bonds.

Trails Day 2008 Another Tremendous Success

One of the trail highlights of the year was Trails Day, June 7, at Scotts Run Nature Preserve. In partnership with REI and the American Hiking Society, the Park Authority hosted the largestever group of trail volunteers to complete sections of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail along the river, install trail markers, and remove invasive plants in the park. Other trail events were held in various parks throughout the county including Hidden Oaks Nature Center, Riverbend, Laurel Hill, Lake Accotink, and Wakefield. The event was covered by National Geographic Magazine.

Volunteers power the effort to improve and expand the local trail system. Staff and volunteers work hand-in-hand.

Other highlights include:

• Working with the Potomac School and Fairfax Trails and Streams to secure an easement along Pimmit Run to provide a long-missing trail connection • Planning a revised network of natural surface trails at Lake Fairfax Park • Developing a trails plan for Laurel Hill • Planning a trail system in the Sully Woodlands area

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Getting to the Root of the Problem Invasive Area Management Program (IMA)

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hey have lovely and somewhat exotic names. Porcelain Berry, Japanese Barberry, Autumn Olive and Burning Bush, but each of these is not a welcome guest in your garden. They are invasive, non-native species that cause ecological harm. They are terrible neighbors that out-compete native species for the same resources and ultimately alter natural functions of the ecosystem.

To combat the problem of invasive plants, the Fairfax County Park Authority began the IMA program – the Invasive Management Area program and since its inception in 2006, the communitybased program has given hundreds of volunteers an opportunity to connect with other people while taking care of the natural resources around us.

IMA is much more than pulling weeds. In 2008 there were 40 sites and more than 35 acres being maintained.

This volunteer program drew 975 participants who donated 3,892 hours. Over the past three years more than 586 workdays have been provided. Education is an important program element. Nearly 300,000 contacts have been made over the years on this topic.

IMA is always on the prowl for new volunteers and volunteer leaders. To find out how you can assist and help us PULL together, call 703-324-8681 or send us an e-mail at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Funding for this program has been provided by the Fairfax County Park Authority, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Chesapeake Bay Small Watershed Grant Program, as well as a donation from the Biz World students of Westlawn Elementary School.

Everyone can help.

Porcelain Berry

Stilt Grass

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Wisteria

New Traditions of Excellence: CAPRA Accreditation

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n October 15, 2008, the Fairfax County Park Authority became the newest fully-accredited park agency in the nation following a hearing before the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) held in Baltimore, MD. CAPRA officials noted that the Park Authority met all 155 performance criteria, a significant accomplishment, considered extremely difficult to attain.

Already recognized nationwide as a leader in parks and recreation, the Park Authority embarked on this two-year effort in late 2006. “We are very pleased to earn this distinction and to reach this level of high performance. This is a tribute to our staff, to our standing in the community and to the level of support we receive from the Board of Supervisors, the Park Authority Board and the millions of people who visit our parks regularly,” said Park Authority Director John Dargle Jr. Accreditation is a rigorous process of assessment and peer review using national standards of best practice to better promote the quality of agency services and delivery systems.

The accreditation steering committee worked tirelessly for two years to meet the CAPRA requirements. Pictured here just moments after receiving high marks from judges in Baltimore, MD.

Benefits of Accreditation: • Accreditation serves as a benchmark for how an agency is doing as compared to best practices and policies.

• Accreditation gives independent verification that basic standards and desirable practices and policies have been met, which in turn helps to build community support and recognition.

• Accreditation can also lead to increased efficiency and effectiveness of operations, enhance services and provide the public with evidence of agency accountability.

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Our Volunteers Connecting Parks and Community

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olunteer service is the backbone of the Park Authority’s success. This past year was no exception. The Park Authority benefited from nearly 200,000 hours of service in the past fiscal year. Based on current national estimates, the tangible value of this work exceeds $3.9 million. Volunteers made a significant difference at every site, in every division, at all levels of the organization.

200,000 Service Hours!

But the intangible tally tells us more, measured in learning as well as smiles and a renewed or brand new appreciation for the value of stewardship, fitness or protection of historic and cultural resources. One volunteer may touch thousands of visitors each year and we can never truly measure the value of that enrichment or satisfying experience. Volunteers make all the difference each and every day as they: • Meet people with similar interest • Expand their knowledge • Gain professional experience • Enjoy free admission to sites and events • Be involved in their community • Share their knowledge and enthusiasm with people of all ages Find out how you can connect parks and your community by visiting us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/volunteer.htm

Volunteers are seldom paid; not because they are worthless but because they are priceless. ~Anonymous

Park Authority Contacts Deputy Director/ Chief Operating Officer Cindy Messinger 703-324-8578

Park Operations Division Director Todd Johnson 703-324-8594

Administration Division Director Miriam Morrison 703-324-8785

Planning & Development Division Director David Bowden 703-324-8741

Resource Management Division Director Cindy Walsh 703-324-8674

Park Services Division Director Barbara Nugent 703-324-8680

This publication was produced by the Fairfax County Park Authority Public Information Office.

Public Information Officer - Judy Pedersen Deputy Public Information Officer - Matthew Kaiser Photographs by Don Sweeney or by license/credit.

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Public Information Officer Judy Pedersen 703-324-8702

Visit us online at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks For more information, Email parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov