Parks &
Neighborhoods Bridging the Gap Between Parks and Neighborhoods
The Official Newsletter of the City of Memphis Division of Parks & Neighborhoods Fall Edition 2014
Celebrating the 25th Southern Heritage Classic at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium
Features include: Memphis Grizzlies Riverfront Fitness Trail & Pop-Up Park, Disc Golf, Senior Olympics and more!
MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR Welcome to the City of Memphis Division of Parks and Neighborhoods Fall 2014 newsletter! Fall brings cooler temperatures, entertaining sports competitions, holiday fun and lots of ways to stay active. At Parks and Neighborhoods, we strive to take a comprehensive lifestyle approach by enhancing the amenities in our facilities by incorporating technological resources and fusing traditional ideas with modern concepts for robust recreational programs.
THE DIVISION OF PARKS AND NEIGHBORHOODS
DIRECTOR
Janet P. Hooks DEPUTY DIRECTORS Dr. LaSonya Hall Larry Smith Joseph Lee PRODUCED BY THE OFFICE OF PUBLIC RELATIONS
Erica P. Dallas
EDITOR IN CHIEF - CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Our recent partnership with the Memphis Grizzlies which created the Riverfit initiative uses outdoor spaces to engage citizens with a wide variety of FunFit leisure activities. In keeping with our Playful City USA designation, RiverFit is just one example of advancing Mayor A C Wharton, Jr.’s vision for Memphis as a City of Choice in which we all want to live, work and play. In the coming months, we will be expanding our communications to inform and educate a wider audience with the aggressive use of social media on the added health benefits of our park programs. Our aim is to improve the physical, social, cultural and environmental well-being of our community. We are thankful to have such a phenomenal, supportive, and giving community. You inspire us to constantly improve recreation in our community through your thoughtful and insightful comments. To learn more about our exciting programs and family friendly FunFit events, visit our website at http://cityofmemphis.org/Government/ParksNeighborhoods.aspx. Please continue to connect with us on social media at: @memparks for Twitter and Instagram and @ParksandNeighborhoods for Facebook. Yours in Service,
CONTRIBUTORS Marcey Wright PHOTO CREDITS Toni Holmon-Turner Brandon McCord Erica P. Dallas SMC Entertainment
Janet P. Hooks
Library’s New eBooks Service for Kids Brings Storytime to Life By: Marcey Wright Storytime just got a little more "interactive" with Memphis Public Library’s new TumbleBooks collection – a web-based e-book service designed especially for young readers. Library customers can now enjoy animated and talking picture books among the Story Books collection, math stories, read-along chapter books, language learning tools, videos, puzzles and games, and more! “Story Books bring children’s picture books to life with animation and audio narration,” explained Library Collection Development Manager Alan Stewart. “A beginning reader can following along with highlighted words while they listen, or they can turn off the audio and read independently. They can pause the story, rewind it, fast forward, and control the pace of the story,” he said. Easily accessible on a desktop, laptop, or mobile device (using the website’s mobile version), TumbleBooks is available through the Library’s website. Parents can simply click the Mona Lisa button labeled “eBooks & Audiobooks” located on the homepage, and then select the TumbleBooks icon in the left pane. The “TumbleBook Library” will appear offering customers a list of options to choose from, including a site tour. Stewart continued, “Interactive e-books can help children to improve their reading comprehension skills and to ‘de-code’ new words. Voice narration also aids them in pronunciation of particular words and with understanding syntax.” Whether a bedtime story or a creative way to keep kids entertained, parents now have access to this new Library service 24 hours a day, seven days a week. “Memphis Public Libraries are committed to supporting the development and improvement of literacy in our community, using all resources available. New digital services like TumbleBooks provide new opportunities for engaging children and helping them to become lifelong readers and learners,” Stewart concluded. Click here to start using TumbleBooks today! For more information about the new service, call (901) 415-2708.
'Fall' into Central Library for the Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale By: Marcey Wright Readers of all ages should “fall” into the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library (3030 Poplar Avenue) 10 am – 4:30 pm on Friday, October 24 and Saturday, October 25, 2014 for the Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale. With a wide variety of new inventory and all items priced at $2 or less, this book sale is a collector’s dream come true! “We’re constantly getting new things, new CDs, DVDs, hardback and paperback books, and lots more,” said Jacque Jenkins, Friends of the Library president. “Even if you come on Friday, you can return on Saturday and find something different, especially for collectors! You’re always going to find new items.” Friends of the Library members enjoy the finest picks at a special preview sale from 8 am to 10 am on Friday, October 24. Avid readers interested in becoming Friends members can sign up at any Memphis Public Library branch or online and receive discounts at the book sale – a great opportunity for parents to cash in.
“We have tons of items that help to build family night,” Jenkins commented. “Sometimes, parents can find a book and movie to match. One night you can read the book together and then, watch the movie another night. The Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale is the perfect chance for parents and children to read and learn together.” For more information about the Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale, call (901) 415-2871.
h t 25
Annual Southern Heritage Classic The Southern Heritage Classic has been wowing stadium and TV audiences with outstanding sports and entertainment since 1990. Whether it’s anticipating the dynamic sounds and choreography of the marching bands, visiting with friends and family on the grounds of Tiger Lane, or sporting the school colors in support of the football team, this annual experience has been recognized as one of the country’s top HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) football events. Thousands of people come out to the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium to watch the friendly rivalry between Jackson State University and Tennessee State University. The full weekend of events include musical concerts, comedy shows, a parade, business workshops and other exciting activities. The economic impact of the Southern Heritage Classic weekend is a tremendous fruitful endeavor that aids in the local economy and endorses higher education. 2014 marks the 25th anniversary of Southern Heritage Classic, which was presented this year by FedEx. Classic founder Fred Jones honored us with an interview to share this marvelous milestone.
P&N: Please speak on the economic value of the Southern Heritage Classic and the things this event brings to the city of Memphis. FJ: The annual economic benefit to the Memphis area is $21 million. The event brings thousands of tourists to the city and citywide community involvement. P&N: What were the motivations behind delving into the promotions/entertainment industry? FJ: I was presented with the opportunity to get into this industry full time by Isaac Hayes. I viewed it as a way to travel and learn a new business. P&N: How does SMC Entertainment give back to the community? In what way is community involvement significant to you and the Southern Heritage Classic? FJ: The community has supported me and the Classic from the very beginning. Giving back to the community is our way of saying thank you. P&N: How challenging is the process to manage the Southern Heritage Classic? What lessons have you learned collectively from your experiences? FJ: It’s very challenging because of the many personalities and issues that you have to deal with each year. The lesson learned is to not assume anything is done until it is done. P&N: Who are your inspirations and why? FJ: My heroes are my parents, Freddie and Lula Mae Jones. My father was the strategist and he taught me to work with people to get things done. My mother was the motivator who instilled the never give up attitude, regardless of the obstacles. P&N: What advice would you give aspiring event promoters and entrepreneurs starting out in today’s marketplace? FJ: They should be well financed and have an understanding that show business is really about business. P&N: Share a “Classic” moment that warmed your heart and changed your life. FJ: I met a lady after the very first Classic in 1990. She had tears in her eyes and she told me how great she felt being a part of the event. I knew then that this was something special.
Disc Golf Catches on in Memphis!
DISC
The clang of plastic hitting metal, the sight of Frisbee’s flying through the air, and the sound of chains rustling will be attracting the attention of onlookers and motorists as sports enthusiasts participate in the growing game of disc golf at spaces around the Memphis area. On Saturday, August 16, a group of citizens made their way to the fairgrounds for the grand opening of the Libertyland Memphis Disc Golf Course. Mayor A C Wharton, Jr. and Division of Parks and Neighborhoods Director Janet P. Hooks took to the podium to express their jubilation at this growing pastime. Imagine twisting and arching your body in order to set up a solid disc launch into the basket and hoping that the wind works in your favor. Nature’s elements are also your obstacles. However, the exhilaration felt at attempting the perfect throw leaves you wanting to master the sport with all your might. Disc Golf, much like its predecessor – ball golf – is a budding sport played on courses of both nine and 18 holes, with tee-off boxes, targets of various lengths, and a par scoring system. The key differences between the two games is that rather than swinging a set of clubs to boost a ball from different points at a hole, disc golf competitors sling what we ordinarily refer to as Frisbees of different widths and curves, depending on the shot required – long drives, precision draws, short-range shots – and take aim at chain-link baskets. Playing disc golf is an incredible way to release stress, brings you one with nature, and gets you away from the hectic demands of modern day pressures. Another wonderful thing about disc golf is how affordable the sport is because courses are located in public parks or other spaces. Visit the Professional Disc Golf Association’s webpage for more information and stop by the fairgrounds for a pleasurable and unforgettable round of disc golf.
GOLF
LET THE GAMES BEG N! 2014 SENIOR OLYMPICS Proving the point that age is just a number and you can compete no matter what your age, the Division of Parks and Neighborhoods held a District Senior Olympics to offer those who are growing older the opportunity to rediscover the exhilaration of recreational times from their early years. The Memphis District Senior Olympics were held at many venues in and around Memphis from September 12-26. 5 of the 320 participants were in their 90s. For many participants, the competition was not just about physical activity, but also about meeting new people and trying new things. Joseph Lee welcomed the athletes at the Opening Ceremony and Mayor A C Wharton, Jr. congratulated the athletes at the Closing Awards Banquet. Participants with the greatest number of points (those with the greatest number of points; 5 pts. for each gold medal, 3 pts. for each silver medal and 1 pt. for each bronze medal)) were awarded the Outstanding Athlete Award. They include:
90s 80s 70s 60s 50s Male Tom Nash Bob Beger Chuck Lanza Benjie Kabakoff Arnold Holcomb Female Sarah Overton Sylvia Boldreghini Mary Ann Vollmer Cheryl Collins Neringa Jakstiene The Dorothy Peete Spirit Award winners were Pam Thompson and K.C. Lim.
RIVERSIDE DRIVE GAINS A NEW ADDITION WITH A POP-UP PARK On Wednesday, Sept. 17, the NBA's Memphis Grizzlies and Mayor A C Wharton, Jr. revealed the new Memphis Grizzlies Riverfront Fitness Trail & Pop-Up Park. Citizens were treated to equipment demonstrations, pop-up boot camps, food trucks, and other fitness related interests. Memphians can look forward to enjoying this accessible fitness park for three full months, which will include six fitness stations, an obstacle course, a soccer field, and two sand volleyball courts. The Riverfit Fitness Trail and Pop-Up Park was brought to life by the designs of ANF Architects and Wagner General Contractors and the project could not have been possible without the visions and work of the Riverfront Development Corporation, Memphis Grizzlies Charitable Foundation and Community Investment Team, and the City of Memphis Division of Parks and Neighborhoods.
Images Source: ANF Architects
There were a few dozen community partners who invested their time and collaborative efforts towards the project by donating equipment, calling on fitness enthusiasts, and networking with interested stakeholders. Citizens had a gratifying evening in celebration of the Pop-Up Park with a DJ on hand, balloon artists, Grizzlies inflatables, and guests like the Grizz Girls and their personal trainer. BlueShield of Tennessee sponsored the event. Children had the opportunity to measure their BMI, height, and weight at kiosks provided by the University of Memphis. It is the hope of all who took part in this project that the Pop-Up Park creates a health conscious movement and an open dialogue about health and the use of green spaces and the fitness facilities in the Memphis area.
GRANTS UPDATE Memphis Animal Services is a recipient of a $5,000 grant for the ASPCA® 2014 Mega Match-a-thon Nationwide Shelter Pet Adoption Event made possible by the Subaru “Share the Love” event. The 3rd annual ASPCA Mega Match-a-thon seeks to save the maximum number of animals in shelters through a weekend of high-volume community adoption events that took place simultaneously across the country during the weekend of October 17-18.
APPRECIATION LUNCHEON
The Operation Feed Food and Funds Drive is a community wide effort to fight hunger that started in 1991 through a partnership between the Mid-South Food Bank and United Way of the Mid-South. Operation Feed functions under the mission to keep the Mid-South Food Bank stocked with food to accommodate the food assistance requests. During the summer months, youth who are unable to take advantage of the school lunch programs are going without meals. There is a demand to ensure that the underserved are provided with a hearty meal.
The Operation Feed campaign is a work-place food and funds drive where companies sign up and employees collect non-perishable food and money for Mid-South Food Bank. This friendly competition is the biggest food drive of the year for the Mid-South Food Bank and companies were encouraged to use creative ways to raise money for the cause. The campaign lasted throughout the summer from May 19 – August 3. Once the last entries were turned in, all the money and food collected is calculated through a point value. This year, the City of Memphis won the Mayor’s Plate back from Shelby County Government , with the most points collected. On September 3rd, 15 division coordinators were invited to the Mayor’s Conference Room at City Hall for a thank you recognition luncheon for their hard work on the 2014 Operation Feed campaign.
TOP POINTS 117,500 points 65,000 points 41,000 points
DEPARTMENT City Court Clerk Office Public Works Memphis Police Department
Estella Mayhue Greer, Executive Director of the MidSouth Food Bank expressed her thanks and Mayor A C Wharton, Jr. presented certificates to the coordinators and stressed how valuable this cause is to the young citizens of Memphis who count on programs like these to sustain them throughout the summer months. “Hunger indeed doesn’t end once the school year is over and this campaign ensures that a significant amount of people will be fed.” Mayor Wharton encouraged coordinators to continue their efforts to end hunger in the Mid-South.
MEMPHIS ANIMAL SERVICES
NEW HOURS OF OPERATION Saturday
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Yappy Hour 12pm – 2pm
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Owner Surrender All Services
Sunday
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Limited Services
Adoption, Reclamation & Pet Rescue
Monday
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Limited Services
Adoption, Reclamation & Pet Rescue
Tuesday
1:00 pm – 7:00 pm
All Services
Wednesday
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
All Services
Thursday
1:00 pm – 7:00 pm
All Services
Friday
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
All Services
Yappy Hour (all day)
NEW ENHANCEMENTS AT DOG PARK Parks and Neighborhoods want to express our appreciation for the financial contribution of the Nutro Company towards our dog park enhancement project. With use of the $2k, our team was able to complete all of the installations outlined in our grant application. This included the purchase and installation of pet agility equipment (large dog crawl for our large dog park and small dog hoops for our small dog park) and installation of limestone fines in areas of the park that needed attention. The City added their own addition in the form of a shade structure and two fire hydrants.
Festive Musical Light Displays Interactive Snow Globe Giant Light Bright f Take-home Crafts S’mores around the Campfire
5:30-8:30 p.m. (Last entry 8:00 p.m.) Fridays & Saturdays: Nov 28-Dec 13 Open Nightly: December 15-30 Closed December 24 & 25
memphisbotanicgarden.com