Winter 2009 VRPS Magazine

Winter 2009/2010

Official Publication of the Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Wintergreen

Leadership Training Institute 2010 • April 18 - 20

*Select dates, 4-9 p.m. See Web site for operating schedule. Operating schedule is subject to change. Christmas Town is a separate ticketed event not included with pass membership or Here’s To The Heroes.

VRPS savings not available at park’s front gate or christmastown.com. Offer valid through 12/27/09. Prices and products subject to change without notice. ©2009 Busch Entertainment Corporation. All rights reserved.

Contents Official Publication of the Virginia Recreation & Park Society

Volume 49 Winter 2009/10

Virginia Recreation & Park Society 6372 Mechanicsville Turnpike Suite 109 Mechanicsville, VA 23111 Phone: 804-730-9447 Fax: 804-730-9455 vrps@vrps.com www.vrps.com

Executive Director James C. Stutts, CAE, CPRP Administrative Assistant Bernadette Cornelius Office Manager Marlene Bresee Editor Amy-Jo Hendrix, CPRP Send Articles to:ahendrix@viennava.gov or Amy-Jo Hendrix, CPRP, Town of Vienna Parks and Recreation, 120 Cherry St. SE, Vienna, VA 22180 Virginia Parks and Recreation is published three times per year by the Virginia Recreation & Park Society, Inc. VRPS is a non-profit professional organization supported by membership dues and contributions. VRPS is affiliated with the National Recreation & Park Association.

Subscription Information. Members receive the magazine as part of their annual membership dues.

The magazine is available by subscription for $25 per year. Requests for subscription should be directed to VRPS, 6372 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Suite 109, Mechanicsville, VA 23111.

Features

Departments

10 What Foundation?

5 2009 VRPS Board, Key Leaders and Staff

12 Changing View 14 28th Annual Herndon Olympics

6 2009/10 Calendar of Events 8 Message from the President

20 A Ticking Time Bomb: Unscreened Volunteers

9 Executive Director’s Message

22 Darrell R. Crittendon Honored as 2008 VRPS Fellow

11 Buckroe Fishing Pier 13 LTI Application 16 Virginia Beach Recreation Centers are All About Fun for Kids!

17 Other Happenings in Virginia Beach 18 Happenings in Norfolk 23 NPSI 2010 25 Volunteer Opportunities

Editorial Statement: Statements of fact and opinions are the responsibility of the authors alone and do not imply an opinion on the part of the officers, members or staff of the Virginia Recreation and Park Society or the Foundation of the Virginia Recreation and Park Society.

Mission The mission of the Virginia Recreation and Park Societyis to unite all professionals, students, and interested lay persons engaged in the field of recreation, parks, and other leisure services in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

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VRPS Staff

NRPA Southern Region Rep

Enterprise Group Chairs

Resource Group Chairs

Service Area Chairs

Board of Directors

Executive Board

2009 VRPS Boards, Key Leaders & Staff President Vice President Treasurer Lay Member Executive Director President Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Board Member Lay Member Executive Director Central Eastern Northern Southwestern Western Aquatics Cultural Diversity

Professional Education Seniors

Therapeutic Recreation Annual Conference

Foundation Awards & Citations

Hershey Track & Field LTI 2010 Virginia Senior Games Legislative Picnic

December 09 December 09 December 10 December 10 December 10 Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Bernadette Cornelius Marlene P. Bresee

Michael Morris Lakita Frazier, CPRP Darrell Crittendon Ed Hamilton Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Michael Morris Shannon Moore, CPRP William (Bill) Sgrinia Lakita Frazier, CPRP Brian Laws, CPRP Keith Rotzoll, CPRP Michael Clark, CPRP, AFO Darrell Crittendon Art Thatcher, CPRP Ed Hamilton Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Cindy Jo Daniel, CPRP DeRocke Croome Michael McCarty, CPRP, AFO Bryan Price Michael White, CPRP Ralph Baird, AFO Alan S. Mills Charles Hester, CPRP Shannon Moore, CPRP Lisa Cooke, CPRP Shannon Barbour, CPRP

Portsmouth Pks, Rec & Leisure Serv Suffolk Parks & Recreation City of Norfolk Rec, Parks & Open Space Roanoke College Virginia Recreation & Park Society Portsmouth Pks, Rec & Leisure Serv Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Danville Parks, Rec & Tourism Suffolk Parks & Recreation Fairfax County Park Authority Prince George Co. Parks & Rec Roanoke Parks & Recreation City of Norfolk Rec, Parks & Open Space Hampton Parks & Recreation Roanoke College Virginia Recreation & Park Society Henrico Division of Rec & Parks City of Norfolk Rec, Parks & Open Space City of Fairfax Parks & Rec Danville Parks, Rec. & Tourism Winchester Parks & Recreation Alexandria Rec, Parks & Cultural Affairs Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond Parks, Rec & Comm. Fac Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Clarke Co. Parks & Recreation Clarke Co. Parks & Recreation

757-393-8481 757-514-7251 757-441-2400 540-375-2409 804-730-9447 757-393-8481 757-385-0420 434-799-5200 757-514-7251 703-324-8564 804-733-2646 540-853-1198 757-441-2400 757-727-6348 540-375-2409 804-730-9447 804-501-5128 757-441-5834 703-385-7853 434-797-8848 540-662-4946 703- 519-2166 804- 828-9436 804-646-6067 757-385-0420 540-955-5140 540-955-5143

morrism@portsmouthva.gov lfrazier@city.suffolk.va.us darrell.crittendon@norfolk.gov hamilton@roanoke.edu jim@vrps.com morrism@portsmouthva.gov smoore@vbgov.com sgrinia@ci.danville.va.us lfrazier@city.suffolk.va.us brian.laws@fairfaxcounty.gov krotzoll@princegeorgeva.org michael.clark@roanokeva.gov darrell.crittendon@norfolk.gov athatcher@hampton.gov hamilton@roanoke.edu jim@vrps.com dan04@co.henrico.va.us derocke.Croom@norfolk.gov mmccarty@fairfaxva.gov pricebe@ci.danville.va.us mwhite@ci.winchester.va.us ralph.baird@alexandriava.gov asmills@vcu.edu charles.hester@richmondgov.com smoore@vbgov.com lcooke@clarkecounty.gov spepperb@yahoo.com

Pete Haislip Roanoke Co. Parks, Rec & Tourism Steve Buschor Roanoke Parks & Recreation Bob Antozzi, CPRP Fredericksburg Pks, Rec & Public Fac Gary Hegner, CPRP Roanoke Parks & Recreation Sheri Conrad, CPRP Loudoun Co. Parks, Rec & Comm Svscs Paul W. Berryman Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Sharon Entsminger, CPRP Chesterfield Co. Parks and Rec Andy Crane Henrico Division of Rec & Parks Art Thatcher, CPRP Hampton Parks & Recreation Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE Virginia Recreation & Park Society Gary Hegner, CPRP Roanoke Parks & Recreation William (Bill) Dickinson Citizen Member John Carnifax, CPRP James City County Parks & Rec Phil Mease, CPRP James City County Parks & Rec J. David Hart, CPRP Pulaski Parks & Facilities Executive Director Administrative Assistant Office Manager

540-387-6078 540-853-2494 540-372-1088 540-853-1133 540-687-6375 757-496-6766 804-748-1126 804-501-5156 757-728-3220 804-730-9447 540-853-1133 757-727-6348 757-259-5361 757-259-4171 540-994-8624 804-730-9447 804-730-9447 804-730-9447

phaislip@roanokecountyva.gov steve.buschor@roanokeva.gov rkantozzi@fredericksburgva.gov gary.hegner@roanokeva.gov sheri.conrad@loudoun.gov pberryma@vbgov.com entsmingers@chesterfield.gov cra18@co.henrico.va.us athatcher@hampton.gov jim@vrps.com gary.hegner@roanokeva.gov wdickin953@aol.com jcarnifax@james-city.va.us pmease@james-city.va.us dhart@pulaskitown.org jim@vrps.com berni@vrps.com marlene@vrps.com

Board Liaisons

Central Service Area Keith Rotzoll LTI Jim Stutts Eastern Service Area Shannon Moore Professional Education Shannon Moore Northern Service Area Brian Laws Virginia Senior Games Jim Stutts Southwestern Service Area Bill Sgrina Hershey Track & Field Darrell Crittendon & Lakita Frazier Western Service Area Michael Clark Legislation Art Thatcher Aquatics Brian Laws Cultural Diversity Darrell Crittendon & Lakita Frazier Seniors Darrell Crittendon Therapeutic Recreation Shannon Moore 2009 Annual Conference Michael Clark & Bill Sgrina Awards & Citations Michael Clark Foundation Darrell Crittendon

Revised 6/4/09 Winter 2009/2010

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Calendar of Events 19

VRPS Board Meeting

Revised 2/09/09

VRPS Central Office

Central Service Area Meeting

Richmond Parks & Recreation

10am

3

Northern Service Area Holiday Social

Hard Times Café –City of Fairfax

4pm- 8pm

11 Senior Resource Group Meeting

Augusta County Government Center, Verona

11am

21

VRPS Board Meeting

VRPS Central Office

10am

22

Foundation of VRPS Annual Meeting & Board Meeting

VRPS Central Office

10:30am-1pm

27

Leadership Orientation Meeting

Charlottesville

TBA

april 2010

15

VRPS Board Meeting

VRPS Central Office

10am

18-20 Leadership Training Institute –LTI 2010

Wintergreen

TBA

may 2010

6-9

Virginia Senior Games

Greater Richmond Area

TBA

july 2010

15

VRPS Board Meeting

VRPS Central Office

10am

11-14 VRPS 56th Annual Conference

Hampton

TBA

15-17 National Playground Safety Institute (NPSI)

Hampton

TBA

18

VRPS Central Office

10am

jan 2010

dec 2009

3

Sept 2010

26 & 27 Thanksgiving Holiday- VRPS Offices Closed

VRPS Board Meeting

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

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10am-2pm

nov 2010

nov 2009

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

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aNNOUNCING THE

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

HOSTED BY:

Hanover County Parks & Recreation Department County of Henrico Division of Recreation & Parks Chesterfield County Parks & Recreation Department City of Richmond Parks, Recreation & Community Facilities New Kent County Parks & Recreation Prince George County Parks & Recreation Louisa County Parks & Recreation Goochland County Parks & Recreation Richmond Sports Backers Winter 2009/2010

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A message from the president

Reflections & Thanks

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t has been an honor for me to serve the Virginia Recreation and Parks Society as President during 2009. I would like to express my thanks to the Board of Directors, Resource Groups, Service Areas and Special Committees for all your efforts during this year. I have enjoyed getting to know everyone and working with you to grow our profession.

As the year nears a close, I would like to pause and reflect for a moment on 2009.

Reflection helps us to identify the experiences and learning opportunities we have garnered.

You are a special group of people, who do wonderful things for other people each and every day.

Keep up the good work.

Peter Drucker says it this way, “Follow effective action with quiet reflection. From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action.”

Confucius said, “By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.”

By way of reflection on the Society’s accomplishments in 2009, the following is a list of highlights the Board of Directors, Resource Groups and Service Areas have been able to get accomplished during this year: Implementing an electronic President’s Newsletter and moving toward an electronic VRPS Magazine and an electronic VRPS Directory.

The Cultural Diversity Resource Group now has a new slate of officers and conducted an electronic survey to gather information to help determine the mission and direction for the Resource Group. A special education session was held at the conference to help professionals understand and appreciate today’s cultural diversity. Thank you to Board Member, Darrell Crittendon for spearheading the meetings to re-invigorate the Cultural Diversity Resource Group.

The Athletics Resource Group had several meetings and has developed a slate of officers. Special thanks to VicePresident, Lakita Frazier for spearheading these meetings and creating this new Resource Group.

Maybe best of all, Mark Twain said, “A man who carries a cat by the tail learns something he can learn in no other way.” Certainly, I have learned many things in the last year from working The Outdoor Recreation Resource with all of you.

Group has begun discussions with 8 Virginia Recreation & Park Society n Winter 2009/2010

Michael Morris

President Virginia Recreation & Park Society

stakeholders and has scheduled a meeting in January. The goal is to create an Outdoor Recreation Resource Group from among the participants in this workshop.

Thanks go to Board Member, Bill Sgrinia for spearheading this effort.

The Western Service Area held a successful Childcare Workshop and has an Athletic Field Maintenance Workshop scheduled for later this year.

The Southwestern Service Area has worked hard at getting students at the universities in the Southwest Service Area more involved in VRPS. They also conducted workshops on turf management and athletic programming during this year.

The Strategic Planning Committee continued their hard work during 2009 to help us stay focused on serving you, the members.

And, as usual, our colleagues in the Roanoke Valley put on another outstanding conference for us all to enjoy.

This reflection on 2009 would not be complete without thanking all the members of the Virginia Recreation and Parks Society. You are a special group of people, who do wonderful things for other people each and every day. Keep up the good work. I appreciate your efforts and it has been a pleasure for me to serve as President and work with all of you wonderful people.

A message from the Executive Director

I Had Lunch with Two Presidents and a Pioneer

A

few weeks ago Sean Gleason (VRPS President 2006) and I drove to Harrisonburg to visit Cecil Gilkerson (VRPS President 1963 – 65).

It helps sometimes to look back at the “pioneers” that came before us.

Chances are they will share a story or two...

As you may know, Cecil retired as Director of the City of Harrisonburg Parks and Recreation Department in 1989 after 36 years in the profession. Cecil is alive and well! He is still involved in the community and keeps up with the Parks and Recreation department. Cecil gave Sean and me a tour of the city’s facilities with the same knowledge and enthusiasm of their current Director and mentee, Lee Foerster.

If you have not been to Harrisonburg lately, you need to go. The City looks great and the Park and Recreation facilities are amazing!

Think about spending the day with two VRPS Presidents. Now, think about the perspective that Cecil has on our profession.

Remember, he was President from 1963 – 1965. VRPS was 10 years old. Lyndon Johnson was our US President. Our Annual Conference was at the Hotel Roanoke.

What were you doing in 1963? President John F Kennedy was assassinated. The Civil Rights movement campaign was escalating, as were the troubles in Vietnam.

Popular films included The Birds and The Great Escape. Television shows that were popular were The Virginian and Lassie.

The Beatles had just released “I Want to Hold Your Hand”.

The average price of a house was $12,650.00 and gas was selling for $.29 per gallon!

year.

Today we are asked to work harder, smarter and longer, often with decreasing resources. It helps sometimes to look back at the “pioneers” that came before us.

Chances are they will share a story or two about how they solved problems, similar to those we face today.

If you have a mentor, keep in touch. Also, don’t forget to be a mentor. There are many eager professionals that could benefit from your wisdom. If you’re lucky like me, you may even be able to have lunch with two Presidents and a Pioneer.

Recreation and parks were needed as much then as now. Our profession was young, and our members were relying on leaders like Cecil Gilkerson Jim Stutts, CPRP, CAE to help our profession grow and mature.

Executive Director As you may know, Cecil has been a mentor to many professionals. I believe that Sean Gleason is one of his best “students”.

And Sean has continued the tradition VRPS is a membership-based organization by mentoring many dependent on active members to carry out the other professionals work of the organization. VRPS is as good as those as well. In fact, Sean committed to its success.

Gleason will retire afPlease consider contributing your time and talents, ter 34 years of service because the good news is you’ll meet dynamic in January 2010. He people, enjoy a sense of accomplishment and grow was recently awarded stronger as a profession.

Life Membership in Visit www.vrps.com or call VRPS Office at 804-730-9447 VRPS along with Ned or email vrps@vrps.com Cheely III, VRPS President 1986. Ned retired in June of this

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

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What Foundation?

By Jane Shelhorse

W

hile perusing through the brochure for the VRPS Annual Conference last month in Roanoke I came upon the list of Foundation members (pg. 14), which I felt was a great addition to the program. I was totally surprised, however, to see such a short list!

There were only 68 total members listed including all categories from the platinum level at $250 per year to regular members at $15 per year. With over 1150 active members in the Society, I was astonished at how few people also support the Foundation.

Maybe you are not aware of what the Foundation truly is or does. It is not an

elite group of professionals that are chosen to become members, although most of the members have won awards, been leaders in the Society and are more involved in VRPS than just attending the annual conference. Maybe it’s just because these are the people who know what the Foundation does and its value to all members of the recreation profession. Anyone

The most well known way it does that is by awarding all kinds of scholarships. can be a Foundation member and I encourage you to become one.

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What does the Foundation actually do? The Foundation operates exclusively for the benefit of, and to carry out the purposes for, the leisure movement in Virginia. The most well known way it does that is by awarding all kinds of scholarships.

Money, including membership fees, is collected by the Foundation, a Virginia Recreation & Park Society

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501(c) (3) organization, and distributed to assist students and professionals with their studies in the field. Some are larger scholarships, like those included in the Foundation’s permanent scholarship program, but there are others awarded for smaller things such as for LTI, the Management Conference, and the Annual VRPS State Conference.

So if you are in the field of recreation, my question to you is “Why aren’t you a Foundation member?” A bronze membership costs as little as $15; less than many of us spend socializing/networking at the conference. You can find $15, and if everyone who was a VRPS member gave their $15, there would be a lot more money available to distribute, and a lot more chances for people to continue their education in our field. What’s the real benefit in becoming a member of the Foundation? - knowing you’ve done a good thing.

Buckroe Fishing Pier Keeping the Tradition Alive in Hampton

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n 2003 Hurricane Isabel visited the Hampton Roads area with a vengeance. Her swath of destruction included washing away the Buckroe fishing pier, leaving a void for local anglers. Resurrection day finally arrived in late May of 2009 with a soft opening of the brand new 1.5 million dollar pier. This project of reviving a sorely missed recreation opportunity was financed by Hampton Parks and Recreation and a matching grant from the Virginia Institute of Marine Science. Fish tales immediately began to circulate among anglers and visitors. Cobia, Flounder, and Striper have discovered that the pier is back. Spot and croaker have been caught in abundance and the harvest has just begun. The 709 foot long pier with a 70x16 foot “T” is supported by concrete pilings and has wooden decks and railings. It was built in the footprint of the old private pier. It has 2 covered shelters midway, 2 fish cleaning stations and attractive restrooms.

The completely stocked new snack bar, tackle and bait shop has rental tackle available. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. During its first season the pier will be open 24/7 as the city determines the most practical schedules for the future. The typical fishing season for the area runs April through October. There is a daily admission, a monthly pass and a 30 day pass that is good for 30 consecutive days from the date of purchase. There is also a seasonal pass that is good for the traditional season of April - October of a calendar year.

Leadership Training Institute April 18-20, 2010 Wintergreen Resort

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

Application is available at www.vrps.com.

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

Improve your Game, Health & Life – Naturally!

Debra S. Bickley, CPRP (877) 736-2545 www.herbal-nutrition.net/dsbickley Independent Herbalife Distributor – Louisa, VA

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Changing Views

By Jane Shelhorse

I

have been involved with VRPS’ Leadership Training Institute (better known as LTI) since 1996 when I attended the Undergraduate Program. I was so impressed by the program I went on to the Graduate Program as soon as I was eligible. Since that time, whenever I discuss LTI with other people who have attended the program, we all agree it is one of the best programs that VRPS offers. It can be life changing. What is it about LTI that makes it such an important event that I would all it “life changing?” There are three reasons that come immediately to mind.

year is “Changing Views”, which you will find yourself having as you leave Wintergreen inspired and motivated.

Hear what some of the 2008 LTI participants had to say:

First of all, you have a chance to

meet other people in the recreation profession. More than networking; you have a chance to really spend some time and share meaningful experiences over the three days. That’s something we often don’t have time to do while at the annual conference, or during our busy work lives.

I met two of my best friends at LTI, and I probably would never have gotten to know them otherwise. Since that time our lives have become interwoven in many ways, but it all started at LTI. I have even heard of one couple who met at LTI and later got married! That’s extreme networking; but it shows how LTI can be a stepping stone to bigger things.

Secondly,

and probably most important, the topics presented and the quality of speakers are terrific. “Empowering Employees for Organizational Success,” Communicating with Style,” “Re-kindling the Flame,” “Leading Dysfunctional Teams,” and “Managing the People Side of Change” are all workshops that will be 12

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These are topics that are relevant, and will give you insight into yourself, and inspire you to become a better leader. presented in 2010 by experienced speakers, some of them nationally known. These are topics that are relevant, and will give you insight into yourself, and inspire you to become a better leader. Our theme this

Winter 2009/2010

“It was by far the best training I have ever attended. The last LTI was good, but this one was even better. The LTI Board has done such an amazing job with the Institute and I know that will continue on into the future.” (Matthew Spruill, New Kent County Parks and Recreation), and “At the Leadership Training Institute (LTI) I learned practical leadership skills that I have applied to my career in the field of parks and recreation. LTI staff provides training that is both valuable and rewarding. The weather may be chilly but the atmosphere of LTI is warm and friendly. I will definitely attend this training again in the near future.” (Matt Woods, Assistant Park Manager, Pohick Bay Regional Park, Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority).

Thirdly, LTI is a lot of fun. Just watch what happens when recreation people get a chance to recreate themselves (instead of just facilitating recreation for others).

This year, LTI will be held at Wintergreen on April 18-20, 2010. The cost is $525 for members and $575 for non- members, if you register by January 31st. That includes everything- workshops, lodging, meals and socials. The only thing not provided is only one lunch (and adult beverages). It is money well spent.

Join us April 18 -20 and experience the changing views for yourself.

VIRGINIA RECREATION AND PARK SOCIETY LEADERSHIP TRAINING INSTITUTE April 18 - 20, 2010 APPLICATION PART I. PERSONAL DATA Name: ______________________________________________________________________________________ Last First MI Position: __________________________________________________________________________________ __ Employer/Agency: _____________________________________________________________________________ Business Address: _____________________________________________________________________________ Street/P.O. Box ____________________________________________________________________________________________ City State Zip Code Business: (______)________________ Home: (______)_________________ Cell: (______)_________________ E-mail address: _______________________________________________________________________________ Are you applying for:

LTI (1st year)

Graduate LTI (Which year did you attend LTI? __________)

Please note: Perspective professionals who meet certain educational and work experience criteria may be allowed to bypass the Undergraduate institute and apply to the Graduate program. Professionals making this request must submit a formal written request to the Board of Directors with a resume attached listing all relevant educational and work experience.

Are you a current VRPS member?

Yes

No

If not a member, do you wish to receive VRPS Membership information?

VRPS Resource Group Affiliation (For members only):

Therapeutic

Cultural Diversity Seniors

VRPS Service Area (For members only):

Eastern

Northern

Central

Western

Yes No

Aquatics

None

Southwestern

PART II. AGENCY SUPPORT As Agency Head of _______________________________________________ , I agree to support the efforts of this participant to attend the 2010 VRPS Leadership Training Institute. ________________________________________________ Agency Head (or his/her designee)

_________________________________ Title

________________________________________________ Signature

_________________________________ Date Winter 2009/2010

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28th Annual Herndon Olympics

By Kerstin T. Severin

W

With the American flag carried

by Olympic Gold Medalist Josh Davis, flying in the breeze, representatives from Kingston Chase, the Herndon Community Center Halibuts, Hunters Creek, the Herndon Swim Club, Hiddenbrook, Four Seasons, Reflections, Kingstream and Fox Mill Estates proudly paraded in the Opening Ceremonies of the 28th Annual Herndon Olympics. The event hosted by The Herndon Parks and Recreation Department and the Kingston Chase Fighters was held on July 10, 2009.

Providing swimmers from three different summer leagues the opportunity to compete against each other in an Olympic style atmosphere.

The Herndon Olympics was originally organized by Joe Smith, former Herndon High School swim coach and strong supporter of competitive swimming in the Herndon area. It provides swimmers from three different summer leagues the opportunity to compete against each other in an Olympic style atmosphere.

This year’s highlight was the Mutual of Omaha’s Break-out Clinic conducted by Olympian Josh Davis. Davis won three Gold 14

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Medals in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, won two silver medals in the 2004 Sydney Olympics and was the Men’s team captain in 2000. He shared his 7 Habits of Highly Effective Athletes which are Finesse, Fitness, Flexibility, Fueling, Fun and Focus, Family and Friends, and Faith. Along with relating his experiences to a large audience he got in the water and worked with the swimmers on their strokes.

Earlier this year, the Herndon Parks and Recreation Departments hosted another Mutual of Omaha’s Break-out Clinic for the Herndon Commanders, a 250 member USA swimming team Club, sponsored by the Department. Clinicians were Josh Davis and Ben Wildman-Tobriner. At the 2008 Olympics, Ben and teammates set a world record in the 400m freestyle relay preliminaries. Besides talking about their swimming experiences, getting in the water and working with the swimmers, emphasis was placed on the Hidden Training that is involved in swimming. The hidden training includes the importance of putting good stuff in your body and taking out the bad stuff, letting your

body rest, by reducing the amount of stress in your life and rebuilding by getting enough sleep. Emphasis was also placed on support of family and friends. There was also time for pictures, autographs and all had the thrill of wearing an Olympic Gold medal.

Providing this type of training for our youth athletes helps us encourage a high level of physical activity, competitive good sportsmanship and support our Kids at Hope philosophy that “all children are capable of success-no exceptions!�

Similar events are planned for the future as the Herndon Parks and Recreation Department strives to provide top notch training for the swimming community.

Clinicians were Josh Davis and Ben Wildman-Tobriner.

At the 2008 Olympics, Ben and teammates set a world record in the 400m freestyle relay preliminaries.

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Virginia Beach Recreation Centers are

All About Fun for Kids!

Stop by any of the 6 Virginia Beach Recreation Centers & try the new equipment

R

ain or shine, kids get their imaginations – and heart rates - in full gear at Virginia Beach Recreation Centers! As part of an initiative to encourage healthy lifestyles, Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation is introducing new kinds of fun with new ways for kids to play.

The largest of these new items are the new Indoor Play Structures, found in the game rooms at Bayside, Great Neck, and Princess Anne Recreation Centers. These playgrounds bring the fun inside, where youth age 12 and under can

various gaming systems. There are Gaming Bikes at Bow Creek where youth can race against each other in a video game, Dance Pads at Kempsville and Seatack Recreation Centers to try out the latest moves, and X’er Boards which offer virtual reality surfing or skating at Princess Anne Recreation Center.

As if that’s not enough, Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation also installed Sportswalls at each of the 6 recreation centers. These walls have flashing lights choreographed to music that require the user to touch the lights to score points. The Sportswalls can be used by a single person, or can be used to challenge a friend. A word of warning: the pace starts out easy, but the heart rates will climb!

Not to be outdone, the swimming pools are also hosting special events with fun new items. Look for Float-A-Rama, which transforms the pools into a lagoon filled with challenging floats. There are teeter totters, huge icebergs to climb up and slide down, enjoy climbing, crawling, and sliding and even friendly through the multi-level structures. dragons to sit

upon. Many pools Or, visit Kempsville Recreation Center’s are also hosting swimming pool and try the new Climbing Movie Nights at Wall. The best thing about this is that no the Pool, where ropes or experience are required, and fall- family friendly ing doesn’t hurt. It just makes a splash! movies are shown

on a large inflatFor a different type of challenge, try out able screen. Who 16 Virginia Recreation & Park Society n Winter 2009/2010

knew that floating on noodles and watching movies was so much fun?

Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation’s vision is a balanced, sustainable and valuefocused system of parks, recreation and public spaces that creates a sense of community. We are accredited by CAPRA, the certifying agency of the National Recreation and Park Association.

For more information, call (757) 385-1100 (TTY: 757-711 Virginia Relay), or visit http://www.VBgov.com/parks

Other Happenings in Virginia Beach New Playground at Virginia Beach’s Little Island Park

Construction was completed last month on a stunning new playground at Little Island Park. The bright blue surface is actually a pour-in-place polyethylene material. Parks and Rec’s Planning, Design and Development Division needed to choose a surface that would hold up against the sand migration from the surrounding beach. The playground surface is porous, allowing water to run through the material, and the sand is regularly vacuumed up by park maintenance staff. Kids are sure to enjoy the state-of-the-art playground equipment including a rock climbing wall.

Pacific Avenue Trail Extension Project in Virginia Beach

If you’ve been to the Oceanfront lately,

you’ve probably seen tall pilings sticking up a federal grant. The trail will be part of out of Lake Holly. That’s a sure sign that an eight-mile loop from Pacific Avenue construction is under way for the Pacific to General Booth Boulevard to Birdneck Road to Norfolk Avenue. The loop will be complete once Birdneck Road construction is finished. This will connect the Oceanfront with the Aquarium, Owl Creek Municipal Tennis Center, Owl Creek Golf Course and Seatack Recreation Center.

Come Ride the Vortex New at Bow Creek!

If you want to experience the fun with Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation, you must include a stop at Bow Creek Recreation Center’s pool where a bright blue, ten-foot high closed flume slide awaits you. After climbing the spiral staircase to Avenue trail extension. The trail will be a the top, nineteen feet of corkscrew runway 1,400-foot boardwalk along the lake’s edge, hurtle you to the inviting pool below! stretching from 5th Street to 9th Street/Norfolk Avenue, running alongside Pacific Avenue. This will give walkers, joggers and bikers a picturesque path where they won’t have to compete with traffic along Pacific Avenue. A gazebo halfway down the path will provide shade and rest.

The project costs about $1.1 million, with most of that money - nearly $800,000 - coming from Winter 2009/2010

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Norfolk Goes Green CSX Railway, City Year Transform Norfolk Community Center & School

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SX Corporation, in partnership with City Year and the Norfolk Departments of Recreation, Parks & Open Space (RPOS) and Intergovernmental Relations, organized a group of over 160 employee and community volunteers on Oct. 17 to transform the St. Helena School and Berkley Community Center Complex in Norfolk, Virginia. From 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., the group refurbished the play areas and public spaces while also providing landscaping around the school.

” , e y t n i un ryo a e m v e ave om nt. t c a Public officials – including Norfolk e h h t t will in th eside c Mayor Paul Fraim and State e j o and pact e Pr r p Senator Yvonne The motto of each CSX-City c a d of i m i s V i Miller – also e Year Service Day is, “Give a Day. turned out for This e prou positiv all, CSX Change the World.” Nearly a dozen Service “ the Service Day Days are done each year, in such cities as Tampa, Baltin b cant Kend to express their ap- ca more, Chicago and Washington, DC. fi i intin n preciation and pitch g i s u Q in with the volund CSX Corporation, based in Jacksonville, Fla., is one of the nasai teers, which included RPOS staff.

“This is a project that everyone can be proud of and will have a significant positive impact in the community,” said Quintin Kendall, CSX Vice President.

Under the direction of RPOS staff, community volunteers removed overgrown hedges and debris around the property to provide the community complex with a safer and more attractive perimeter.

In addition, the grounds were landscaped with plants, flowering bushes, trees, and mulch, while other teams built benches and picnic tables. Specifically, the volunteers: n Planted 349 perennials (irises, liriope, pansies, and hostas). n Planted 116 shrubs (roses and azaleas). n Planted 19 trees (crepe myrtles). n Removed more than 75 yards of hedge. n Built four picnic tables and six benches.

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tion’s leading transportation companies, connecting customers to ports, distribution centers and markets across the eastern United States. CSX is the National Leadership Sponsor of City Year – an organization that unites young people of all backgrounds for a year of full-time service, giving them the skills and opportunities to change the world. City Year believes such actions make a difference in the lives of children and transform schools and neighborhoods throughout the United States.

Ribbon Cutting at Norfolk’s Bluestone Park

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he Norfolk Department of Recreation, Parks & Open Space hosted a ribbon cutting on Aug. 24 at the new Bluestone Park. City officials Mayor Paul D. Fraim, Councilman Barclay C. Winn, Councilwoman Daun S. Hester and Councilwoman Dr. Theresa W. Whibley spoke and helped RPOS cut the

Recreation, Parks & Open Space — hosted a free tree give-away on Oct. 3.

From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., approximately 3000 free tree seedlings were given away to the public at eight city locations. Local arborists were on-hand to demonstrate to the public proper arboriculture techniques and answer questions about trees.

“We fille said Fra d a real need” b i The seedlings given out included children m. Before Blues y building the p t w Golden Raintree, Kousa Dogof traffi ould have to c one was built, ark, wood, Redbud and Vitex. c to walk ross ove rs to the ne The tree give-away was organized ribbon on Norfolk’s newarest pla ix lanes and sponsored by the Norfolk Arest neighborhood park. y park. bor Day Committee. The event “We filled a real need” by building the park, said Fraim. Before Bluestone was built, children would have to cross over six lanes of traffic to walk to the nearest play park.

Bluestone Park was built upon 1.22 acres of vacant, deteriorating land purchased by the City of Norfolk in 2007. The park provides valuable open space where families can play and enjoy the outdoors.

It is within walking distance of the surrounding communities of Larchmont, Lambert’s Point and Highland Park.

The park features the following amenities: n Play equipment for ages 2-5 and 5-12, including swings and a pirate ship-themed play structure. n Open areas for games and other activities. n Picnic tables. n Ornamental fencing.

also commemorated Norfolk’s 23rd year as a Tree City USA community, as awarded by the National Arbor Day Foundation. In honor of this recognition, Norfolk Vice-Mayor Anthony L. Burfoot (pictured with Harvey Darden, Virginia Department of Forestry Southampton County Forester) was on-hand to assist with planting a tree in the city’s Freemason community.

ly e t a m i prox p a , . re p.m e 2 w o s t g . lin .m d a e e 9 s m e lic e b r u t Fro p e e e r h 3000 f n away to t ocations. give ight city l at e

n Attractive plantings and landscaping.

Norfolk Celebrates Arbor Day with Free Trees

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n its 23rd year of celebrating Norfolk Arbor Day, the City of Norfolk — along with many local businesses, organizations and the Department of Winter 2009/2010

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A Ticking Time Bomb Unscreened Volunteers A

Mark Moore, Assistant Director of Botetourt County Parks, Recreation and Tourism

father walks into a parks and recreation department in southwest Virginia and says, “I’m coaching my son’s football team this year, and I need to complete a background screening consent form.” The assistant director hands the father a pen and a consent form and invites him to complete the form at his desk.

Afterwards they discuss the father’s plans for making the upcoming season the best it can be. After a subsequent background check, the father has a disqualifying crime match. The same father that had just days before completed the form in the office had failed the background check.

Parks and recreation administrators must understand that the enforcement of the background screening program will not cause all individuals with a criminal past to run and hide like roaches when you turn on the lights. The old adage that “we know everyone in our community”, “a bad volunteer is better than no volunteer” or “we’ll just wait until something happens first” is untrue and dangerous, and should never be considered appropriate. From clergy sexual misconduct to sport coaches arrested on drug charges, 20

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look no further than the news headlines for undeniable reasons to conduct a background check on departments’ volunteers.

The old adages that

“we know everyone in our community”, “a bad volunteer is better than no volunteer” or “we’ll just wait until something happens first” are

untrue and dangerous, and should never be considered appropriate.

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Fortunately for Virginia, Randy Rodebaugh, President of NRPA partner Southeastern Security Consultants, Inc (SSCI), states that “Nationally, the state of Virginia is a leader in volunteer background checks. You’ll find some of the most comprehensive volunteer screening policies in Virginia.”

Although Virginia may be a pioneer in this ultimate safety practice, there is much room left for improvement.

Recently, SSCI randomly surveyed 42 agencies in Virginia regarding background screenings. The results were surprising:

92% of the agencies surveyed are conducting background checks on volunteers 64% of the agencies surveyed are not meeting NRPA recommended guidelines for background checks

38% of the agencies surveyed were not even aware of the NRPA recommended guidelines for background checks Building a comprehensive volunteer screening program is a challenge, but NRPA has laid some of that groundwork with their recommended guidelines for credentialing volunteers. For example, the recommendations prompt departments to seek background checks with a national scope for criminal records and sex offenses coupled with a quick turnaround on results (within five working days). NRPA has seen the growing need for a comprehensive volunteer background check program, and that is reflected in their recent inclusion of a screening program in their CAPRA standards for agency accreditation.

The NRPA recommended guidelines can be obtained at www.nrpa.org.

to know that we’re doing our due diligence to keep our customers safe and provide the most qualified individual to get the job done.”

The recommendations prompt departments to seek background checks with a national scope for

criminal records and sex offenses coupled with a

quick turnaround on results (within five working days).

Numerous recreation departments in Virginia--such as the counties of Botetourt, Augusta, and James City and the cities of Hopewell and Alexandria--are already actively screening volunteers and have been for years. Arlana Fauntleroy, Recreation Operations Coordinator for James City County, believes screening volunteers is essential. “Background checks are certainly worth it. Our citizen’s safety and peace of mind are priceless. We’ve been conducting checks on staff for over 20 years now, general volunteers for over 10 years, and our coaches and assistants for over 5 years. It makes me feel good

The fact is that reviewing volunteers’ backgrounds makes our communities safer.

According to SSCI, of the 41 VRPS agencies utilizing NRPA guidelines, 205 felonies and 823 misdemeanors were found on coaches that were screened January 1, 2009 through October 1, 2009. These findings reflect the criminal records found from within the State of Virginia. Keep in mind that 13% of all criminal records found are located outside the current state of residency.

The precedent has been set across the country; comprehensive volunteer background screening programs are essential and with NRPA’s recommended guidelines have become the standard. Failure to address this issue increases the burden of liability on an organization and does little to make the community safe from predators and other undesirables who gain access to vulnerable populations.

For more information on the recommended guidelines for background checks or for policy development, contact Mark Moore, Assistant Director of Botetourt County Parks, Recreation and Tourism at 540-473-8326 or Randy Rodebaugh, President of SSCI at 1-866-996-7412 or visit www.nrpa.org.

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Darrell R. Crittendon Honored as 2008 VRPS Fellow

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arrell R. Crittendon, Director of the Norfolk Department of Recreation, Parks & Open Space (RPOS), took home the Fellows Award from the Virginia Recreation & Parks Society (VRPS) annual awards ceremony for the 2008 year, held Sept. 14 at the Hotel Roanoke in Roanoke, Va. The Fellows Award is the highest achievement presented at the annual ceremony, and goes to an individual with 10 or more years’ experience in the field, who has furthered the goals of VRPS,

contributed to the profession and served the community.

Mr. Crittendon has been with RPOS since December 2006, and has overseen the construction of two new community centers—Norview, which opened in January of this year, and Lambert’s Point, scheduled to open in February 2010; the renovation of 11-acre Shoop Park; and the renovation of Town Point Park, the City’s premier festival park.

He currently serves on the VRPS Board of Directors as Treasurer and Nominations & Elections Committee Chairman, and has been instrumental in the reorganization of the society’s Cultural Diversity Resource Group.

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

VRPS is a membership-based organization dependent on active members to carry out the work of the organization. VRPS is as good as those committed to its success.

Please consider contributing your time and talents, because the good news is you’ll meet dynamic people, enjoy a sense of accomplishment and grow stronger as a profession.

Education

Certification Board Chair, Shannon Moore, CPRP, Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation 757-385-0420, or smoore@vbgov.com • Provide workshop that could be offered at different locations around the state.

• Host (provide site) for statewide workshop or activity • Assist with creation of CEU (Continuing Education Units) applications for workshops

Virginia Senior Games

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

VRPS Magazine

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

Newsletter

Contact Mike Morris, Portsmouth Parks, Recreation & Leisure Services (757) 393-8481 or morrism@portsmouthva.gov • Write articles and submit for consideration for newsletter • Take pictures at VRPS events and submit for newsletter • Send interesting pictures of your successful events for newsletter • Sponsor production and mailing of a newsletter at $600

WEB-SITE/E-update

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

Membership

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

Service Areas/Resource Groups/ Enterprise Groups

Contact: Your Service Area Chair, Resource Group Chair or Enterprise Group Chair from the 2008 Boards, Key Leaders and Staff list on page 5 • Assist with administrative tasks or publicity as needed • Assist with educational, special events or

fundraising • Assist with whatever special project they are working on

Hershey Track and Field

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

Legislation

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

Member Ticket Program

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

Miscellaneous Opportunities

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

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Save the Date in 2010 April 18 -20

Leadership Training Institute LTI 2010 Wintergreen, VA

Advertise here!

Affordable & Effective 804-730-9447 26

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The oldest and most respected professional development school for parks and recreation professionals March 14 - 19, 2010 Year One Topics Include: • Budgeting for the Bottom Line • Contract Services Management • Capital Program Development • Pricing for Cost Recovery • Creative Revenue Development • Sponsorships • Partnerships

Hosted by The National Training Center for Facility Managers at Oglebay Resort & Conference Center

Year Two Topics Include:

• Data Management & Technology • Communicating your Agency's Identity • Economic Development Strategies • Media & Public Relations • Creating Value Through Innovation • Business Plans for Successful Projects

For a complete list of year one and year two topics and to download a registration form visit www.revenueschool.org or visit our Facebook page.

Please call 304-243-4126 for more information.

Resort & Conference Center www.oglebay-resort.com/schools ntc@oglebay-resort.com Winter 2009/2010

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

www.vrps.com

VRPS

For all your support in making 2009 another terrific year.

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