SPRING 2009

A PUBLICATION OF THE NORTH CAROLINA RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATION

INSIDE: NCRPA Profi le: Clayton Parks & Recreation Under Construction People in the News 2 NCRPA news • Spring 2009

370431_Oakland.indd 1 2/27/08 9:41:23 PM SPRING 2009

A publication of the North Carolina Recreation & Park Association Vol. 63, No. 1 • Spring 2009

NCRPA Marketing Committee Laurie Thore, Chair, Greensboro, NC Karen Brady, Fayetteville-Cumberland County, NC contents Haley Gingles, Winston-Salem, NC Blaine Gregory, Mecklenburg County, NC 4 From the President David Lee, Wilson, NC Sonya Shaw, Garner, NC Calendar of Events

To submit information for NCRPA news, please e-mail articles, stories, and photos to: 5 NCRPA Board of Directors [email protected] 6-7 NCRPA Profi le Clayton Parks & Recreation

883 Washington Street 8-9 Under Construction Raleigh, NC 27605 (919) 832-5868 (919) 832-3323 (fax) [email protected] 10-13 Hot Topics in P&R

Visit NCRPA online at: www.ncrpa.net 15 Fundraising in P&R

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Advertising Art: Gregg Paris On the Cover... © 2009 Naylor, LLC. All rights reserved. The An avid mountain biker enjoys a challenging trail contents of this publication may not be reproduced in Clayton, NC! by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher. Photo courtesy of Clayton Parks & Recreation Please support the advertisers who made this publication possible.

PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 2009/CPR-Q0109/8088

Spring 2009 • NCRPA news 3

370431_Oakland.indd 1 2/27/08 9:41:23 PM from the president BY ALLEN OLIVER

Let me begin by thanking Irby Brinson, the 2008 Board of Directors and the NCRPA staff for an outstanding year. Under Irby’s leadership we began the process of raising the awareness of parks and recreation in our local communities. I would also like to thank Jim Garges, Greg Jackson and the members of the conference management team for the outstanding state conference in Charlotte. It is with great pride that I serve as your President during 2009. I have a tremendous amount of passion for our profession. I consider parks and recreation one of the most important services provided in our local communities. Your 2009 Board of Directors held our annual retreat in January. During this time we set the goals and objectives for the coming year. This year, more than others, they are very important to our Association. With the uncertainty of our economy we must reposition ourselves to keep the services provided by our department at the forefront. We will continue to work on a model that will easily show the economic benefi ts parks and recreation events makes on our local economy. At the retreat we began exploring programs that deal with the health and wellness of our children and youth. We have the opportunity to become leaders in providing programming that will impact the future of our young citizens. Finally, more than ever we need to become louder, stronger and more diligent advocates for parks and recreation, we must develop relationships with our elected offi cials that emphasizes the quality of life contributions we make every day. I look forward to the upcoming year and the opportunities and challenges it will bring. With your help we will accomplish our goals for 2009. Sincerely,

Calendar of Events MARCH 23-24 SEPTEMBER 30-OCTOBER 1 Therapeutic Recreation Section Conference Athletic Directors Workshop Salisbury, NC Atlantic Beach, NC RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATION Contact: Peggy Walker Contact: Craig Lands (704) 527-0237 (252) 726-5083 ONLINE INFORMATION [email protected] [email protected] ...check it out! APRIL 22 NOVEMBER 14-18 www.ncrpa.net NCRPA Board Meeting NCRPA/SCRPA Joint Conference High Point, NC Winston-Salem, NC • Event Information Contact: Allen Oliver Contact: NCRPA • Educational Opportunities (336) 883-3562 (919) 832-5868 • Resource Links & more! [email protected] [email protected] Call NCRPA at (919) 832-5868 today AUGUST 6 NOVEMBER 15 or e-mail us at [email protected] NCRPA Board Meeting NCRPA Board Meeting Greensboro, NC Winston-Salem, NC Contact: Allen Oliver Contact: Allen Oliver (336) 883-3562 (336) 883-3562 [email protected] [email protected]

AUGUST 7-8 Citizen Board Member State Forum Greensboro, NC Contact: Mike Waters (919) 832-5868 [email protected]

4 NCRPA news • Spring 2009 RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATION North Carolina Recreation & Park Association 2009 Board of Directors

Executive Committee Allen Oliver, President, High Point Parks & Recreation David Lee, 1st Vice President, Wilson Parks & Recreation Mack McLeod, 2nd Vice President, Hickory Parks & Recreation Karen Saine, Secretary, Henderson County Recreation & Parks Lee Tillery, Treasurer, Matthews Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Irby Brinson, Past President, Arden, NC Mike Waters, Executive Director, NC Recreation & Park Association

NRPA Southern Regional Representatives Larry Bailey, Clayton Parks & Recreation Candice Bruton, Greensboro Parks & Recreation Erma Deen Hoyle, Lincoln County Parks & Recreation Keith Jenkins, Cary Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Dan Maxson, Greensboro Parks & Recreation Roderick Simmons, Asheville Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Londa Strong, Cabarrus County Parks Morry Watkins, Brunswick County Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission Lisa Wolff, Burlington Parks & Recreation

Region Chairs Region 1 ~ Thomas Perkins, Tarboro Parks & Recreation Region 2 ~ Mike Wetzel, Jacksonville Parks & Recreation Region 3 ~ Neal Robertson, New Hanover County Parks Region 4 ~ Cindi King, Cary Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Region 5 ~ Anthony Ellison, High Point Parks & Recreation Region 6 ~ Brent Cornelison, Elkin Parks & Recreation Region 7 ~ Pam Royal, Huntersville Parks & Recreation 382773_Rubber.indd 1 5/22/08 3:15:01 PM Region 8 ~ Tim Rhoney, Valdese Parks & Recreation Region 9 ~ Claire Stewart, Haywood County Parks & Recreation

Section Chairs Administration ~ Cathy Hart, Gaston County Parks & Recreation Athletics ~ Dennis Vestal, Greenville Recreation & Parks Commission Board ~ Thomas Hodges, Wake Forest Recreation Advisory Board Education ~ Rob Stiefvater, NC Central University Park Services ~ Jim Orr, Black Mountain Recreation & Parks Programs ~ Jane Smith, Burlington Parks & Recreation Therapeutic ~ Teresa Williams, College Pines Health & Rehab Center Courts, Courts, Standing Committee Chairs Running Tracks, Fencing, Lighting, Accessories Citations & Awards ~ Phil McKnelly, National Association of State Park Directors Conference Selection ~ Keith Jenkins, Cary Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Finance ~ Lee Tillery, Matthews Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Legislative ~ Larry Bailey, Clayton Parks & Recreation Marketing ~ Laurie Thore, Greensboro Parks & Recreation Membership ~ Londa Strong, Cabarrus County Parks Procedures ~ Larry Philpott, Swansboro, NC Professional Development ~ Sam Trogdon, Cary Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources

Ad-Hoc Committee Chairs Annual Conference ~ Timothy Grant, Winston-Salem Recreation & Parks Endowment for Parks & Recreation ~ Mac Sligh, Onslow County Parks & Recreation Serving NC & SC Endowment for Parks & Recreation ~ Kathy White, Tobaccoville, NC NC Licensed & Bonded Nominations & Elections ~ Irby Brinson, Arden, NC

Agency Liaisons NC Association of Senior Citizens ~ Pam Kelly, Asheville Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts 7704-392-655604-392-6556 NC Senior Games ~ Lee Perry, Manteo, NC NCDENR ~ Lewis Ledford, NC Division of Parks & Recreation Recreation Resources Service ~ Pete Armstrong, Raleigh, NC wwww.ww.ccarolinacourtworksarolinacourtworks..comcom

411923_CarolinaCourtworks.indd 1 Spring 2009 • NCRPA12/23 /news08 11:2 05:20 PM ncrpa profile

Clayton, NC – A Premiere Community For Active Families BY LARRY BAILEY, DIRECTOR, CLAYTON PARKS & RECREATION

n 2001, the Clayton Town Council adopted the slogan “Premier Community for Active Families,” signifying their commitment to an aggressive campaign to expand parks and other recreation facilities. Clayton, located Iless than twenty minutes from the capital city, is a family- oriented community with over 15,000 residents. In the past decade, facing the challenges of rapid growth, Clayton leaders have recognized the importance of proper planning for parks, open space, and connectivity through a community trail system. Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plans and a Strategic Growth Plan are in place, along with a commitment to providing matching funds for PARTF and other grant opportunities. This effort was reinforced last May when voters passed a $4 million- dollar bond package. Half of the bond proceeds go to “land banking” for future park sites. The balance goes to develop phase I of a new 66-acre park and for renovation projects at two existing neighborhood parks.

On the opposite side of town, Legend Park Mountain Bike Trail includes eight miles of trails over unique and diverse terrain. Through a partnership with an adjacent landowner, the 24-acre trail site was expanded to 48 acres. Designed by a local expert, the bike trail has received regional recognition and has skill challenges from beginner to expert. Two neighborhood parks, Municipal Park and All- Star Park offer basketball courts, tennis courts, shelters, playground equipment and athletic fi elds. In addition to providing and In May of 2009, Clayton’s fi rst community center will maintaining facilities, open. This 30,000 square-foot center includes a gymnasium Clayton Parks with an overhead walking track, rooms for art and pottery, a and Recreation is dance and exercise room, and rooms for childcare and after actively involved school programs. The center’s unique architectural feature in programming is its 40' tall contemporary interpretation of a “front porch,” for all ages – from which will be a gathering spot for community functions. The preschoolers to community center is part of a trail system that connects the seniors – with a park to a planned greenway and a downtown connector. From particular emphasis in there, trails will connect to other parks and eventually extend programs for special to the Neuse River and the proposed Mountain-to-Sea Trail. populations. In addition to the Community Center, Clayton Community The Clayton Park includes ball fi elds, a half-mile walking trail, tennis Youth Council courts, sand courts, shelters, and innovative began fourteen years playground equipment. Through an Eagle Scout project, ago as a way to eight tournament-level bocce courts were constructed fi ve involve high school years ago and Clayton Parks and Recreation currently hosts students in activities regional Special Olympics qualifi ers and, for the past three and give them years, has been the host site for the North Carolina Senior community service Games State Finals. opportunities. The

6 NCRPA news • Spring 2009 100-plus members sponsor numerous members), and of course fi reworks dancing partners. The event has special events, including the Santa’s are annual traditions. For Halloween, grown to over 150 participants. Workshop, and are a solid base of there are hayrides in the park and Responding to a rapidly growing volunteers for other department- a parade down Main Street, which and increasingly diverse community sponsored activities. Santa’s Workshop is blocked off, so kids can “trick or has presented Clayton Parks and started as a babysitting service for treat” at businesses along the way. Recreation with many challenges, but parents and is now a destination for Programs for people with special also many opportunities. As the area children, who can make ornaments needs range from summer camps and continues to grow, the department and gifts and visit with Santa. an annual trip to the mountains to strives to meet the challenge of being Admission is two can goods per child, dances and the annual spring prom. “the premier community for active and food is then delivered to the Youth Council members help with the families.” To fi nd out more about local food bank. Working with senior prom providing music, refreshments, Clayton Parks and Recreation, visit adults, people with special needs and and photos – and also serving as us at: www.townofclaytonnc.org the community-at-large has been a positive experience for the students and the department. Several students have chosen to pursue careers in public service. [email protected] The 26th Annual Clayton 5K 888-826-4762 Road Race was held on the second Saturday in May. The department Scotland Neck, NC 27874 also hosts the town’s largest one day Centipede, Tifway 419 event, the annual July 4th Celebration, now in its 27th year. Relay races, Meyers Zoysia bands, a “shower” from the Clayton It’s not just Sod...it’s Service you can Count On! Fire Department, free watermelon (sliced and served by Town Council

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409080_winslow.indd 1 Spring 2009 • NCRPA1/6/09 news 1:19:10 7 PM under construction

High Point Parks And Recreation Dedicates One Facility, Breaks Ground For Another BY RICHARD SHORE, SUPERVISOR, HIGH POINT PARKS AND RECREATION

On October 9, 2008, High Point Parks and Recreation held the ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony for Allen Jay Recreation Center. The 14,000-square-foot facility includes a gymnasium, craft room, multi-purpose activity room, office, restrooms and kitchen. The facility will host programs, activities and special events for all ages and abilities. The dedication ceremony was opened by Parks and Recreation Director, Allen Oliver. The Allen Jay Mayor Smothers, City Council members and children from the Allen Jay Community cut the ribbon at the grand opening of Allen Jay Recreation Center. Recreation Center was a 2006 recipient of a $500,000 Parks and Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF) grant. High Point Parks and Recreation also proudly broke ground for the Miracle League Field Complex on October 18. The $500,000 complex will include a Miracle League Field and accessible playground. During the ceremony, Mayor Smothers received a $100,000 check from Guilford County Commissioner, Linda Shaw. The Miracle League Field is scheduled to open The High Point Miracle League committee members join Guilford County Commissioners, in the spring of 2009 and will serve over City Council Members and Mayor Smothers in breaking ground for the Miracle League Field 15,000 youth in the area. and playground. Buncombe County Greenways: What’s New, What’s Coming, What’s Green BY JAMIE SHARP, OFFICE ASSISTANT, BUNCOMBE COUNTY PARKS, GREENWAYS AND RECREATION In April 2008, the Buncombe County Commissioners passed the Greenways Plan, which called for the formation of the Greenways Commission. This commission consists of the chairman, Dwayne Stutzman, a recently retired regional trails specialist/outdoor recreation planner and 14 other community members. These members are representatives of the greater Buncombe County community and are all volunteer appointments. In addition to these members, Buncombe County Parks, Greenways and Recreation has added two paid positions to further the Greenways Program. These staff members are Lucy Crown, Greenways Planner and Jessica Stevermer, Funding Coordinator. On October 30, 2008, the Point Lookout Trail offi cially opened, creating the fi rst link connecting the McDowell County trail system to Black Mountain’s Greenway Master Plan. The 3.62 mile Point Lookout Trail follows the abandoned roadbed of US 70 from Old Fort to Ridgecrest. The paved hike/bike trail has been in planning for over ten years. Buncombe County Parks, Greenways and Recreation hopes to extend this trail from Black Mountain into Asheville. Point Lookout Trail is an example of a regional partnership, benefi ting the citizens of McDowell and Buncombe counties. Buncombe County would like to use greenways to connect communities with pathways rather than roads, thus promoting alternative methods of transportation and a healthy lifestyle.

8 NCRPA news • Spring 2009 Land Acquired For New Lincoln County Beatty’s Ford Cabarrus County Park Park: A Successful Partnership BY LONDA STRONG, DIRECTOR, CABARRUS COUNTY PARKS SUBMITTED BY ERMA DEEN HOYLE, DIRECTOR, LINCOLN COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION, AND STEADMAN SUGG, The Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners PROJECT MANAGER, DUKE ENERGY RECREATION PLANNING AND DESIGN approved a lease for 190 acres in the southeastern part of the county. The Parks Department currently On October 26, 2008, Lincoln County Parks and Recreation owns/leases 529 acres of parkland throughout the held an open house to give residents a glimpse of their newest county, but this will be the fi rst land purchased in park. The department wanted to update the public on the park’s Cabarrus County for the sole purpose of being a park! current status and the items remaining. The picnic shelter and The county will lease the property, located off restrooms have been completed, as well as the splash pad and U.S. 601 for $190,000 annually for 30 years. At the volleyball court. Beatty’s Ford Park, located near Denver, will end of the lease, the property will belong to Cabarrus also include walking trails, a disc course, horseshoes and County. The current value of the property is $6.9 more. Duke Energy also has plans to build a swimming beach million and the county will have paid $5.7 million at and fi shing pier at the park in the near future. the close of the lease agreement. This is a no-interest The 24-acre park represents a successful and unique loan for 30 years. partnership. The park site is adjacent to one of Duke Energy’s The land owners, Rob and Donna Wallace, have public recreational boating access areas on Lake Norman, and wanted to see a park on their land for years. They Duke has leased the property to Lincoln County at no cost for have toyed with the idea of building an 18-hole golf 30 years. Total cost of the park construction to date is $1.2 course along with an aqua driving range. The most million. Lincoln County was awarded $500,000 from PARTF and important thing they wanted to see was children being $155,000 from The Timken Foundation, and recently received able to enjoy a park, whether they were playing ball, approximately $300,000 from Duke Energy for Beatty’s Ford taking a hike, or just relaxing and enjoying nature. Park. This public-private partnership provides more recreational Their dream will now come true while enhancing the facilities and access to Lake Norman, while reducing the local quality of life for Cabarrus County residents. dollars spent for the park development.

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Triangle Aquatics: First Anniversary For Cary’s Newest Aquatic Facility BY DORACY HARRISON, PROGRAM MANAGER, TRIANGLE AQUATICS

Last October, Triangle Aquatics (TAC) marked its fi rst anniversary, celebrating a highly-successful opening year! Now, the largest public aquatic facility in North Carolina, TAC boasts three indoor pools, spectator seating, classroom, café, and full-service swim shop. Swimmers come and go all day, whether part of a class, camp, swim team, or just taking advantage of a daily pass. TAC’s mission is “to build and operate public aquatic facilities for the health, safety, recreation and competition needs of the Triangle,” successfully accomplished through their wide program offering. The American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim classes fi ll quickly, with nearly 60 classes and 300+ swimmers enrolled each month. Lifeguard and instructor certifi cation classes are also quite popular. Groups come to celebrate birthdays or other milestones. TAC is also the home pool for two major local USA swimming clubs, so swim meets are a common occurrence, including high school, Special Olympics, and larger state and regional competitions. A 501(c) (3) nonprofi t organization, TAC relies on community donations, sponsorships and visitors for funding. Moving into its second year of operation, Triangle Aquatics hopes to broaden their program offering with additional fi tness classes, a transition swim team, and lessons for low-income families, partnered with the USA Swimming’s Make-A-Splash initiative. The Importance Of Putting People First BY MALLORY BARKER, STUDENT, UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT GREENSBORO

As a Recreational Therapy student, the most valuable lesson that I have learned and plan to practice in the professional world is the use of person-fi rst language. I have often witnessed others portraying insensitive behavior to persons with disabilities. The purpose of person-fi rst language is to address the person before the disability to signify their importance as a human being like everyone else. Common terms like: cripple, retard, slow, blind and deaf, among many others, are often used in today’s society to describe those with various disabilities. These terms are harmful and de-humanizing and should be strongly discouraged. Proper descriptions for those with disabilities include: People with physical disabilities, individuals with mental disabilities, persons with a visual or hearing impairment, etc. I have been instructed throughout my college education, as well as through my own personal experiences, to acknowledge the importance of every member of society despite their disability; to treat each individual with the respect they deserve as a human being. Now, I am making it my personal mission to inform others of their short-comings, concerning this matter, so that we may all live in a more accepting and equal environment. I hope you will join me in using person-fi rst language in your agency and community. Greensboro “Turns Up The Heat” On Invasive Plants BY BROOKS MULLANE, PARKS PROGRAM SUPPORT SUPERVISOR, GREENSBORO PARKS & RECREATION

Greensboro Parks & Recreation has the responsibility of managing over 3,500 acres of programmed parkland, greenways and open spaces. Many of these areas are still in their pristine natural state. Unfortunately, there are areas where invasive plants have taken a strong foothold. Honeysuckle, mimosa, privet and multifl ora rose are some of the major contributing plants that shade out, smother or displace native plant species. They “out-compete” native plants for water, nutrition and sunlight. Safety can also be a concern with limited visibility in the natural areas, due to the impenetrable walls of honeysuckle, kudzu or masses of privet. To combat the problem, an Invasive Plant Policy was approved by the Greensboro Parks & Recreation Commission in February 2008. The new policy provides the tools for educating and making the public aware of the problem. Partnerships with neighborhood groups are imperative to enlist their support in this effort. Working through the Adopt-a-Park program, Greensboro Parks & Recreation guides and assists neighborhood groups that want to become involved with their parks while learning what plants they can use in their own yards.

10 NCRPA news • Spring 2009 Mecklenburg Voters Support Parks And Recreation Bonds BY MIKE COZZA, PUBLIC INFORMATION SPECIALIST, MECKLENBURG COUNTY PARK AND RECREATION

Mecklenburg County voters passed $250 million in park and recreation bonds in the general election last November. The bonds won 62% approval, despite the sagging national economy and turmoil in banking, which is Charlotte’s largest industry. “This means we can make a substantial start on our 10-year master plan to meet the needs of our growing population,” said Jim Garges, Director of Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation. The bonds passed after department staff and a consultant drew a comprehensive master plan, based on best practices in the industry and recommendations of professionals. The bond package included: • $16 million for nature preserves and nature centers • $43 million for greenways, more than 26 miles of new trails • $60 million for new and expanded parks • $70 million for recreation centers and aquatic facilities The bonds will be used to build or improve more than 60 facilities. They also allow purchase of $60 million worth of additional land for parks and recreation. Voters in all parts of Charlotte-Mecklenburg supported the bonds, refl ecting a distribution of projects that one county commissioner called “excruciatingly fair.”

Cross-Country Meets New Recreation Attract Over 2,000 Runners Program To Southside Park For Children With BY BRYAN WATERS, PROGRAM COORDINATOR, NEWTON PARKS & RECREATION Autism Spectrum Disorder BY RHETT LANGSTON, DIRECTOR WAYNESVILLE PARKS AND RECREATION Waynesville Parks and Recreation is creating a networking program for children and young adults on the autism spectrum. The Waynesville Recreation Center (WRC) will pioneer a program, Autistic Socialization Program for Youth (ASPY), specifi cally Last fall, Newton Parks & Recreation hosted four major cross- for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). country meets at Southside Park. The events attracted over 2,000 The goal is for participants to interact with each runners and 1,500 spectators as area high schools and universities other, learn new activities, and make connections competed at the popular park, which has a one-mile rock dust track that with other children and/or a new activity or sport, winds through wooded areas, open meadows and adjacent creeks. The once a month. park serves as a great destination for both runners and spectators, as The sessions are divided into two one-hour participation continues to increase each year. sections. The fi rst hour focuses on a broad category Perhaps the largest cross-country event in western North Carolina, such as arts and crafts where children may be given the 16th Annual United Way Unifour Cross Country Invitational was two choices to select from, such as paper bag puppets held on October 8, attracting well over 1,000 runners from 38 high and pottery. A youth fi tness room is also available schools in Catawba, Burke, Caldwell, Alexander, Rowan, Iredell and that features a horizontal climbing wall, a Wii dance Buncombe counties. The inaugural invitational began in 1992 with only pad and Game Boy exercise bikes! The second 125 runners. hour includes swim time. The center has a lap swim Lenoir-Rhyne University also held a cross-country meet at Southside pool and a water park pool, which contains a slide, Park on October 3, with 12 colleges and 200 runners participating. The fountains to play on, sprinklers and many other city hosted the Catawba Valley Athletic Conference Cross Country features to enjoy. ASPY requires parents, guardians Meet on October 14, with 10 high schools and seven middle schools and/or representatives to be present at all times with represented, totaling approximately 500 runners. On September 23, the their children during the program. The cost is $3.00 park played host to the Bandys High School Cross Country Meet, in for members of the WCR or $5.00 for non-members. which 12 area schools and more than 250 runners participated. For more information, call (828) 456-2030, or e-mail [email protected]

Spring 2009 • NCRPA news 11 Boot Grandfather Mountain Camp Boosts Moral To Become NC State Park BY MATT SMITH, MARKETING SPECIALIST BY DON REUTER, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR SCOTLAND COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION NC DIVISION OF PARKS AND RECREATION Last fall, Scotland County Parks and On September 29, 2008, Gov. Mike Easley announced that Recreation Cheerleading Coordinator, Alicia the state will acquire 2,601 acres on Grandfather Mountain Krout, took a new approach to preparing to become North Carolina’s newest state park. Under an for the youth football season as she hosted a agreement with Grandfather Mountain Inc., the state parks cheerleading “boot camp” for coaches. The system will acquire the undeveloped portion of the famous boot camp helped to educate the coaches as tourist destination as well as an easement on 604 acres that they reviewed some of the fundamentals of will be retained by the heirs of Hugh Morton. The purchase the game. During the course, Krout taught the price is $12 million. The Morton family will continue to fundamentals of cheerleading and safe building operate the Grandfather Mountain attraction through a techniques when cheering, and offered problem nonprofi t organization, supported by funding from the sale. solving skills. “The goal is to raise the bar Aside from being one of the signature landmarks in our for our county’s cheerleading program and to state, Grandfather Mountain is a premier natural resource, educate our coaches while preparing them the boasting 16 distinct ecological communities and 73 rare best we can,” said Krout. “I believe we have the species, and is an International Biosphere Reserve. The best Parks and Recreation All-Star cheerleaders agreement outlines the intent of the Morton family to in the Statewide Athletics Conference and we’d continue to operate Grandfather Mountain Park, which like to keep it that way.” includes a nature center, a small zoo and the signature The coaches also received an instructional swinging bridge through a trust, supported by funding from DVD along with a folder, which provided the sale. handouts on stretching, arm motions and the fi rst The NC Division of Parks and Recreation will manage parent’s meeting. Krout and Scotland County the undeveloped portion of Grandfather Mountain, including Parks and Recreation hope that the coaches its 11 trails, as a state park and may seek more acreage for really enjoyed the boot camp. “Our volunteers traditional park facilities. Any additional tracts or facilities are special people, who donate a lot of time and would be identifi ed and prescribed through a public master energy, so that our programs are successful,” planning process. said Krout. “Volunteers make it happen!”

North Carolina Cyclo-Cross Races At Salisbury Community Park BY ELANEY HASSELMANN, MARKETING & COMMUNITY RELATIONS MANAGER SALISBURY PARKS AND RECREATION

Salisbury Parks and Recreation and the North Carolina Cyclo-Cross Series hosted the NC Cyclo-Cross Series fi nale race and the fi rst two Winter Cup Cyclo-Cross series races at the Salisbury Community Park. These races were a steeplechase of cycling where competitors competed on an approximate one- mile course comprised of grass, gravel trails, a little bit of pavement and some manmade and natural obstacles. Competitors in these races completed several laps around the course and were often required to dismount and carry, or run, with their bikes to tackle course challenges. Cyclo-Cross racing is about transitions from one type of surface to another, from one section to another, from one speed to another. Racers got a little mud on their tires and a whole lot of wind in their hair! Cyclo-Cross is one of the safest cycling events and one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States. Cyclo-Cross racing is spectacular fun for all ages and skills levels and is an outstanding recreational outing for the whole family! For more information about future races at the Salisbury Community Park, contact Paul Moore at (704) 638-5295 or visit: www.nccyclocross.com

12 NCRPA news • Spring 2009 A Community Garden Ask RRS BY STEVE MOLER, CONSULTANT Grows In Southern Pines RECREATION RESOURCES SERVICE BY RYNET OXENDINE, SENIOR PROGRAM/SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR SOUTHERN PINES RECREATION & PARKS On an unseasonably cool summer morning, Belinda Stubbs gazes proudly at her tomato plants. Her garden plot is small, only 4 by 12 feet, but it has been providing her, and a friend, who helps tend it, with plenty of okra, tomatoes, peppers, collards, salad greens and watermelon this Q. What are some of the “trends” past summer. Stubbs took advantage of the opportunity to grow her own that parks and recreation departments summer vegetables in a community garden, sponsored by FirstHealth of are experiencing in North Carolina in the Carolinas, Southern Pines Recreation & Parks and NC Cooperative 2009? Extension. A. Recently, RRS surveyed park All of the other gardeners are Southern Pines residents – young, old and and recreation departments in North in-between. “We have young families, working folks and retirees … some Carolina and here are some of the expert gardeners and some, who have no gardening experience,” says Melissa “trends,” provided by the respondents. Watford, a health educator with FirstHealth Community Health Services. 1. Demand for services by an aging “It’s truly intergenerational.” population Watford is the FirstHealth liaison for the community garden, an offshoot 2. Demand for walking, hiking and of a similar project, called FirstGarden, which introduces healthy eating greenways and outdoor physical activity to Southern Pines children. “The community 3. Merging Hispanic needs into the garden has been a positive, fun and exciting addition for the residents of overall program Southern Pines,” says Robert Reeve, Recreation and Parks Director. “It 4. Addressing the obesity concerns has given people in the community a chance to come together and share the through parks and recreation benefi ts of gardening as well as foster relationships among its owners.” Also, through the same survey, respondents were asked what they are doing to meet these “trends.” 1. Developing new positions to Town of Erwin Pushes For coordinate and provide senior services Accountability Of Adults 2. Moving trail and greenway In Youth Sports construction up the capital improvement ladder, creating BY ADAM J. SHILLING, PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR, NATIONAL ALLIANCE FOR YOUTH SPORTS Greenway Advisory Boards and Erwin Parks and Recreation wanted to give its youth sports coaches, obtaining grants for trail construction administrators and offi cials training on the sports they were involved in, but 3. Building soccer complexes and were concerned about promoting the culture of win-at-all-cost. “We want to increasing hours, increasing provide a standard certifi cation program for our coaches,” said Allan Autry, equipment and facility use and Athletic Coordinator. “I felt like this community needed some kind of basic creating Sunday use of facilities for training for the coaches because they had not had any training before. It’s Hispanic population mandatory for head coaches and voluntary for assistants,” Autry added. As 4. Developing obesity prevention a sign of support from the local government, the town of Erwin agreed to programs and partnerships with local pay the National Alliance of Youth Sports (NAYS) membership fee for every health department for “Losing or coach, administrator and offi cial. Life” program and “Sajai Wise Kids” Since joining NAYS, Erwin has trained 23 of their youth sports coaches, program for afterschool kids, ages along with several referees and administrators. “I like the fact that they cover 6-11 years all the issues, such as dealing with parents, helping kids with special needs, 5. Offering new programs such as and focusing on fun instead of winning,” said Autry. “One of our more Lacrosse, Ultimate Frisbee, Pickle experienced coaches is starting to see more of what we’re trying to do with Ball, Outdoor Adventure activities regards to participation and fun now that he’s completed the NAYS program.” (kayaking, rock climbing) and Geo- For information about NAYS and its many programs, visit online at: caching. www.nays.org For more information, visit online at: http://www.cnr.ncsu.edu/rrs/ teleconference.html

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412447_playworld.indd 1 12/12/08 8:32:53 AM Fundraising in P&R

Recreation Bond Package Children’s Benefit Festival BY ZACK CARTER, MARKETING & EVENTS DIRECTOR To Benefit Greensboro LENOIR PARKS AND RECREATION Community On October 25, 2008, Lenoir Parks and Recreation BY LAURIE THORE, MARKETING DIRECTOR held its inaugural Children’s Benefi t Festival. The GREENSBORO PARKS & RECREATION department teamed up with the Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots Foundation in an effort to collect toys that would benefi t local children at Christmas. The benefi t festival was held in beautiful downtown Lenoir with everything structured for children. There was live entertainment, infl atables, a trampoline bungy jump, face painting, balloon artists, food vendors along with other activities and games for children. Attendees were asked to bring a new, unopened toy that could be donated to the Toys for Tots Foundation. The Toys for Tots Foundation collected enough toys to fi ll a 15-passenger van and also received over $200 in cash donations to purchase toys. All toys collected or purchased were given to children within Caldwell County. The main goal of this event was to have the toys stay in the area and help out local children.

In these tough economic times, the citizens of Greensboro remained steadfast in their strong support of Greensboro Parks & Recreation as they passed a $20 million recreation bond package last November. The third successful referendum since 2000, projects include much needed upgrades to swimming pools, parks and facilities. In addition, funds will support Phase I construction of the Gateway Gardens Visitors’ Center and continued garden development. This project will be developed by Greensboro Beautiful, Inc., in partnership with Greensboro Parks & Recreation. Bond dollars will also be used to support Phase II of the Barber Park Master Plan implementation that may include a community center, a maintenance facility and supporting infrastructure. Voters also approved the construction of a regional competitive aquatic center to be used for swim meets, team practices, swim instruction and public swimming. The facility will include a 50-meter pool, a diving well, a warm- up pool, spectator seating and amenities. Other projects on the ballot include the construction of a restroom at Gillespie Golf Course and the installation of artifi cial turf at Hester Park. Although the department is anxious to move forward with the projects, timing of the bond sales will be contingent on improvements in the economy.

412823_Woodplay.indd 1Spring 2009 • NCRPA 12/23/08 news 15 9:20:38 AM

412447_playworld.indd 1 12/12/08 8:32:53 AM association news

2008 NCRPA Annual Awards Presented BY MICHELLE WELLS, PROGRAM DIRECTOR, NCRPA

During the 2008 NCRPA promotion of greenway development sectional representative, tournament Conference in Charlotte, the Citations through the establishment of a director and currently serves as the and Awards Committee honored greenway commission; over $500,000 chairperson. Locally, he is involved seven individuals for their outstanding in grant funding, partnership and with the Sandhills Optimist Club, service to the parks and recreation collaborative facility and program local senior games committee and has profession. projects with schools; and expansion served as their coordinator, Sandhills of programming through In-Line Hockey Foundation. During the reorganization of his tenure in Pinehurst, Adam has the agency. During his expanded the program offerings for profession, Lindsey held all segments of the population, despite many NCRPA leadership being the only program coordinator on roles that included staff. region chair, treasurer, Jonathan Howes has been a second vice president, long-time friend of our profession. fi rst vice president and From 1993-1997, he was the NC president in 2005. In Secretary of the Department of his community, he is a Environment, Health & Natural member of the Stanly Resources (DEHNR). During his County Convention & time as Secretary, Jonathan lead Visitors Bureau, Stanly DEHNR in the passage of a $35 Left to right: Adam Crocker, Dennis Vestal, Paul County Chamber of million state parks bond, legislation Moore, Jonathan Howes, Lindsey Dunevant and Commerce, Morrow Mountain State creating a dedicated source of funding David Vaughn. Park Advisory Committee, Stanly for state parks – The NC Parks & County Partners in Health, Albemarle Recreation Trust Fund (PARTF), The Fellow Award is the highest Bulldog Booster Club, Yadkin-Pee efforts to protect and improve water award that NCRPA can bestow on one Dee Lakes Project and Stanly County quality, streamlining environmental of its members for outstanding service Juvenile Crime Prevention Committee. permit programs, implementation of a and leadership. The 2008 recipient The Special Citation Award comprehensive immunization action was Lindsey Dunevant, Consultant was presented to Adam Crocker, plan and strengthened environmental with Recreation Resources Service Recreation Program Coordinator education by obtaining $31 million in (RRS). Prior to joining RRS, Lindsey with Pinehurst Parks & Recreation appropriations to build the Museum served as the director for Albemarle Assistant, Jonathan Howes, Parks & of Natural Sciences. In addition to Parks & Recreation. After graduation Recreation Trust Fund Authority and his work with DEHNR, Jonathan also from NCSU in 1975, Lindsey returned David Vaughn, President of David chaired a special panel of the National to his hometown, where he provided Vaughn Construction. Academy of Public Administration, exemplary leadership to the parks and Adam Crocker, a graduate which studied the US Environmental recreation program for the next 31 of State University of New York Protection Agency, served as years. In addition to his contributions College at Cortland, joined the director of the Urban Policy Center, to parks and recreation, he has been a Pinehurst staff in 1999. He has director of the Center for Urban and very conscientious public servant, and been a member of NCRPA for nine Regional Studies at UNC-CH and continues to serve the citizens of the years and has contributed to our served as the mayor of Chapel Hill area as a member of the Stanly County association and profession in many from 1987-1991. While Jonathan Board of Commissioners. Some of ways. He has been a member of has made many contributions to our his accomplishments as director the Athletic Directors Workshop profession, his most signifi cant may included administration of a $700,000 steering committee and served as be the establishment of PARTF, which LWCF matching grant; planning its chair, the statewide Athletics continues to provide funding for local and development of City Lake Park; Committee as a district representative, and state recreation projects.

16 NCRPA news • Spring 2009 David Vaughn from Greenville is recently joined the staff of Statesville in our state and is actively-managing owner/president of a local construction Parks & Recreation. public land and water resources, while company and a community member, Dennis Vestal has been with providing no-cost public recreation who truly believes in the importance Greenville Recreation & Parks since facilities to the citizens of our state of recreation and parks. His efforts 2001. He has moved up in the agency for over 50 years. Duke Energy have made a tremendous impact for from recreation program assistant works daily with more than 70 local the youth and families of Pitt County. to recreation manager. He is CPRP government agencies to provide He began volunteering in the 1990s certifi ed and has been an active recreation land, easements and PARTF as a little league coach. member of NCRPA since 2000. grant support for various types of The fl ood of 1999 brought a lot of Dennis represents the department recreation development. Duke Energy destruction to Greenville parks. David throughout the community and state. is committed to be a leader and holds volunteered his time and resources He serves on the board of directors for a position at the forefront of recreation to collect donations for park repairs. Greenville Babe Ruth and Greenville development for our citizens. In 2006, he heard about a handicap- Little League and is the department’s NCRPA also recognized fi ve accessible baseball fi eld. He gathered liaison to local youth football and member agencies for successful Arts a group of baseball and recreation lacrosse organizations. Dennis serves and Humanities programs and an enthusiasts and began researching the on the Athletic Directors Workshop Innovative Program Award winner. concept. From there, he supervised a steering committee, the Statewide The Arts and Humanities Awards board that collected funds and created Athletics Committee as the baseball were presented to Durham Parks the Sarah Vaughn Field of Dreams. coordinator and is the current chair of & Recreation for their Hero Book This $750,000 project would not the Athletic Section. He is a graduate project, Cary Parks, Recreation have been possible with out David’s of East Carolina University (ECU) and & Cultural Resources for Cary leadership and tireless efforts. In 2008, is currently working on his Masters in Diwali 2007, Garner Parks & he contributed $250,000 to assist Recreation & Leisure Studies degree Recreation for their Independence with the creation of Greenville’s fi rst at ECU. Day Celebration, Morganton Parks fully-accessible playground. David Each year, the Corporate/ & Recreation for their Red, White managed the development of the Humanitarian award is presented & Bluegrass Festival, and Black facility. He was raised in Greenville to a business operating in North Mountain Recreation & Parks and has given back to the community Carolina that has made a signifi cant for the African American Dance in many countless ways. and statewide contribution to our Ensemble. The Young Professional award profession. Duke Energy was selected Hero Book is a multi-media arts was presented to Paul Moore and as the 2008 winner for its partnership project, designed to give teens an Dennis Vestal. Paul has nine years and fi nancial gift of $4.5 million to the artistic way to explore their strengths of experience in the fi eld. Paul was Carolina Thread Trail. This project will and discover ways in which they are hired by Salisbury Parks & Recreation be developed in eleven North Carolina heroes in their own community. The as a recreation programmer at the counties and dozens of municipalities. fi rst part was an art project where Salisbury Civic Center after working Duke Energy is one of the largest and the teens produced a Hero Book, a with the Alamance County YMCA oldest planners of public recreation continued on page 18 for two years. During his tenure in Salisbury, Paul was instrumental in bringing special events to the city, which included the Simon Says contest, the Wedding Extravaganza, the Threads of Love Quilt Show, the Carolina Artist Exposition, NC Cycle- Cross series races and numerous disc golf tournaments. In 2006, Paul was promoted to Recreation Coordinator and received his CPRP certifi cation. He serves as the USTA-sanctioned Jr. Open Tennis Tournament director, NC Cyclo-Cross series race coordinator and Master of Ceremonies for many of the department’s events. Paul has also served NCRPA as a conference speaker and as a member of the Duke Energy Recreation Planning and Design Team – (Left to right) Joe Carriker, Steadman Sugg, conference program committee. Paul Scott Jolley and Travis Sinclair.

Spring 2009 • NCRPA news 17 specifi c services that enable the event to be such a success. The City of Morganton and the Parks & Recreation Department is the host and location of The Red White and Bluegrass Festival. The annual event is one of the largest traditional bluegrass festivals in the nation. The festival continues four days and ends on the Fourth of July with the biggest fi reworks show in Western North Carolina. The festival was founded in 2004. The incentive was to bring a stimulating festival to Morganton in the context of traditional bluegrass Left to right: Rob Smith, Garner; Cindi King, Cary; Butch McSwain, Morganton; Jason Hurley, music, local art, craft and food vendors Mecklenburg County Park & Recreation; and Rhonda Parker, Durham. and quality family entertainment. Each year, the festival turns record numbers series of pages, portraying various non-profi t Hum Sub and the Town of and is still growing. The Red, White facets of their lives, people important, Cary’s Parks, Recreation & Cultural and Bluegrass festival has been free and memories through written words Resources Department. Now in its for the past fi ve years. The Festival and drawings/paintings. The second eighth year, Diwali has become a hosts over twenty fi ve vendors, local part was a fi lm, which documented signature annual event. and regional artists. The festival also the Hero Book creation process and Garner’s Annual Independence provides free tent and RV camping included teens interviewing elders Day Celebration is the town’s onsite. By the fourth day, the event in their community, who shared largest event of the year attracting caters to over 20,000 guests and 23 memories and their own heroes. The an average of 12,000 to 15,000 bluegrass bands. teens were both subjects and camera people. No other event brings out The African Dance Ensemble persons for this portion of the project. the sense of community and attracts performance was brought to life to The concept of the Hero Book project people from throughout the region celebrate Black History Month with an is based on the 10 Million Memories as this event does. Families of all authentic African dance performance Project (www.10mmp.org), designed sizes gather in the park hours before that entertains through dance, taught to help the millions of victims of the Symphony performs to picnic, peace, as well as educates the audience the AIDS crisis in Africa take their play and enjoy other forms of about the history and culture of Africa. memories and life experiences and entertainment. Each year, organizers The Black Mountain Recreation and develop them into a picture of their receive many positive comments Parks Department was also hoping contributions and accomplishments. that address the “close-knit” and to succeed in bringing the Black Diwali, also known as the Festival “small town” feel of the event. This Mountain community members to a of Light, is a major Indian festival that Independence Day Celebration was performance, normally seen in larger celebrates the victory of good over evil established to honor America’s cities. The agency reached out to the in every human being. The Triangle birthday and bring the community principles of the local elementary area of North Carolina, and specifi cally together for a family-friendly event, and primary schools. Immediately, Cary, has a large Indian population, partnering with local non-profi t they embraced the idea of an event due mostly to Cary’s proximity to the agencies and churches to provide that joined students and community high-tech industry in Cary, Morrisville food and other refreshments to the members, young and old. The Black and Research Triangle Park. Cary patrons of the event as well as the Mountain Old Depot Association, a Diwali was established in response NC Symphony, which provides most non-profi t and volunteer organization to the large growth of the Indian of the events musical entertainment. in Black Mountain, whose mission is population. The other reason was the This event allows local non-profi t to protect and maintain the 100-year- Town’s desire to promote diversity food vendors to be more visible old train depot and support the and cultural awareness to its citizens within the community aside from teaching of mountain and heritage and the broader community. Cary their normal business activities. The crafts in the local Swannanoa Valley Diwali was fi rst held in 2001 as a way Parks and Recreation Department Schools, provided funding for the to celebrate and share Indian culture does not work alone in putting this event. to the community at large. From its large event together as Public Works, The Innovative Program award was inception, Cary Diwali was conceived Police Department, and the Wake presented to Mecklenburg County as a partnership between the private County Sheriff’s offi ce provide Park & Recreation for their Charlotte-

18 NCRPA news • Spring 2009 Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) Physical Education In-Service Training. The department and schools partnered to host two days of in-service training for 292 Physical Education teachers: 114 elementary, 59 middle and 119 high school. These teachers provide instruction for most of the 136,000 CMS students. While Park and Recreation and CMS have worked together in the past, this marks the LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE fi rst time that these two county organizations have come together GREENWAYS AND TRAILS DESIGN to impact so many teachers at one BIKE AND PEDESTRIAN PLANNING time. The goal of this program was to introduce physical education STREETS AND SIDEWALKS specialists to non-traditional activities LAND SURVEYING that would address multidisciplinary standards (health and fi tness, science, ATHLETIC FIELD AND COMPLEX DESIGN math, and social studies) at no cost/ PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLANNING low-cost by taking their classes outdoors and/or partnering with Park CIVIL AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING and Recreation to use local greenways, nature preserves and parks for their programming. ASHEVILLE HICKORY PINEHURST NCRPA congratulates all of the (828) 252.0575 (828) 328.2024 (910) 295.3159 2008 award winners and wishes them www.mcgillengineers.com continued success in the future!

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275638_Haden.indd 1 Spring 2009 • NCRPA3/2/06 8:46:39news AM 19 The Arts

Going Green With Art “Reasons To Rhyme” And Turning Trash Into Comes To Greensboro! BY MARY ALICE KURR-MURPHY Treasure CITY ARTS SUPERVISOR, GREENSBORO PARKS & RECREATION BY CHRISTY FERGUSON, RECREATION PROGRAM SUPERVISOR In 2009, City Arts and Greensboro poet Josephus III OAK ISLAND PARKS AND RECREATION will join with the United Arts Council and the public Last summer, libraries to present a series of Spoken Word poetry events. youth enrolled in Reasons to Rhyme creates a deeper appreciation of the art Oak Island Parks of spoken word, helping to make Greensboro a premier and Recreation’s cultural tourism destination. Event partners and sponsors Day Camp hope to reach new audiences, participants and customers program had a while adding to the economic growth of the Greensboro chance to join the area. nationwide effort In February, Passages to improve the kicked off the series with environment. One words, music and dance week of camp was to open eyes and awaken devoted to taking senses. The Poetry Slam items that would normally be thrown away in trash brings national poets receptacles or recycled and instead using them to make very to Greensboro for an creative art projects. exciting competition Participants were so eager to explore this program, with a $1,000 prize. called Recycled Art Creations, that the camp was one of In March, May and the fi rst ones to completely fi ll. Upon arriving, the campers September, the Poetry found that the materials they were going to work with were Café encourages local not normal arts and craft supplies. Instead, they were items artists to have their that the department had been collecting for many months, voices heard in a friendly including empty cereal boxes, plastic juice containers, and intimate spirit of newspapers, old shoes, empty aluminum cans and egg open mic. This summer, cartons. By the end of the camp, the kids had used these the MoSoul Poetry Festival brings three groups of ten poets items to create masterpieces such as paper mache piñatas, each to work with students in the recreation centers and birdfeeders, shoe planters, dancing dragons and picnic sets. present Saturday evening performances at Festival Park. From this experience, we have learned that the youth The solo performance of Josephus III, called 1 Man, will in today’s society are excited about the chance to make leave audiences captivated with his inspiration and vision improvements to the environment. We look forward to for humankind. adding this camp to our program schedule each year and Performances are free and sponsorships are available. giving the youth a chance to truly turn trash into treasure. For information, visit online at: www.josephusIII.com or call (336) 373-2731.

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401610_mills.indd20 NCRPA 1 news • Spring 2009 10/9/08 7:46:38 AM IN THE NEWS people in the news

Greensboro Parks Bill Ellis, Director for the Kinston- Phillip Harper has been hired by & Recreation Lenoir Parks & Recreation was Pinehurst Parks and Recreation Director Bonnie recently honored by the Kinston to fi ll the position of Recreation Kuester retired chapter American Red Cross as Program Coordinator, previously on January 31 the Kinstonian of the Year for his held by Jennifer Dahlin. Harper with over 40 years more than 20 years of service to the comes to Pinehurst from Fayetteville- of distinguished community. Cumberland Parks and Recreation, service. Kuester, ♦ where he served as a District the department’s Keith Jenkins, Athletic Facility Supervisor. fourth director Supervisor at WakeMed Soccer Park, ♦ in its 75-year history, began her Cary Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Emily Shaffer, Athletic career in 1968 and rose through the Resources Department was recently Superintendent with Morrisville Parks, ranks to become director in 1992. awarded one of three Thomas I. Recreation & Cultural Resources Major accomplishments include a Hines scholarships for the Revenue retired January 30th. Previously, 20-year Comprehensive Master Plan; Development and Management Shaffer was with Apex Parks, three successful Recreation Bond School. This annual school is Recreation & Cultural Resources. Referendums; a third National Gold sponsored by Oglebay Resort, Enjoy your retirement, Emily! Medal; and National Accreditation. North Carolina State University, and ♦ Kuester looks forward to spending the National Recreation and Park more time with her husband Frank, Association. family and friends. ♦ ♦ Sharon Eichler, RLA, of Wade Trim, Congratulations to Rhonda Parker, recently received her NC professional Durham Parks & Recreation Director Landscape Architecture license. on successfully passing the exam Eichler has over 25 years of master for the Certifi ed Park & Recreation planning and design experience on Professional (CPRP). active and passive parks of all sizes. ♦ More specifi cally, her experience Sonya Shaw has accepted the Town includes athletic facilities, boundless of Garner’s offer to serve as Parks and playgrounds, skate parks, bicycle Recreation Director. Previously, Shaw and pedestrian trails, and numerous was Director for Goldsboro Parks and specialty park facilities. From left to right: Don Tilley, Melody Recreation. Prior to her service in ♦ Strickland and Braxton Patterson Goldsboro, she was employed by the Brunswick County Parks & Recreation Congratulations to Don Tilley, Town of Chapel Hill for 15 years – announces that Aaron Perkins has Greensboro Parks & Recreation, and most recently working as Community been hired to fi ll the position of Melody Strickland, Jacksonville Celebrations, Arts, and Programs Athletic Specialist. Perkins has a Parks & Recreation for their Division Supervisor. Bachelors Degree from the UNC- recognition at the ADW with the Pembroke in Recreation Management. Meritorious Service Award. Braxton For the past two years, he has served Patterson was honored with the as Park Supervisor for Brunswick Young Professional Award. County’s Northwest Park in Leland.

Spring 2009 • NCRPA news 21 the mailbox

75TH ANNIVERSARY KICKS OFF WITH HOLIDAY PARADE FLOAT! BY LAURIE THORE, MARKETING DIRECTOR, GREENSBORO PARKS & RECREATION

Greensboro Parks & Recreation has been “Reaching Out, Touching Lives!” for 75 years! On Saturday, December 6, Director Bonnie Kuester, Greensboro Parks & Recreation Commission Chair, Rose Marie Ponton, staff and program participants boarded the department’s pontoon boat and “fl oated” down the city streets in the annual Greensboro Jaycees Holiday Parade. The pontoon “party barge” was delightfully-decorated by the 75th Anniversary Parade Float Planning Committee, which included Sue Davis, Mel Melton, Charles Jackson and Bernadette White. Let the department’s year-long 75th Anniversary Celebration begin!

RECREATION AND PARK PROFESSIONALS: ARE WE IN IT FOR THE MONEY? BY ERIC FRAUMAN, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR RECREATION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, APPALACHIAN STATE UNIVERSITY A recent study of 400 randomly-selected National Recreation and Park Association members, who completed a 30-item money attitude scale (cf., Tang, 1995), designed to address six dimensions of money, revealed that we may not really be in the profession for the money, but we do value it (Frauman, Ivy, & Cunningham, under review). We tend to agree that money is “good,” not particularly “evil,” and “should be budgeted,” based on a 5-point scale (where 1 = “disagree strongly” and 5 = “agree strongly”). On the other hand, money is not agreed upon as strongly as a “provider of freedom” and certainly is not seen as a “means of respect,” nor as a “means of achievement” with average scores bordering “disagreement.” In sum, money is possibly both a blessing and LISTENING TO OUR a curse. We budget it because we probably have to, given the type of wages common in LITTLEST RESIDENTS our profession, and while money may somewhat provide freedom to be what one wants BY STEVE FRAHER, DIRECTOR to be, it clearly is not observed as a measure of success, nor a prerequisite to gain the DAVIDSON PARKS & RECREATION respect of others. That is okay with me, how about you? This is a positive “feel good story” of how we listened to our DO YOU HAVE A “JUMP-IN AGREEMENT”? littlest residents and responded BY ERIC TROGDON, MEDIATOR, TRAINER, AUTHOR; STEPS CANADA to their requests. The boys were As public professionals, we discover that some people may not always be a playing in a new park area, but pleasure to interact with. Some can even turn aggressive and dangerous. I discovered having disputes about boundary a common fl aw that professionals and teams fail to develop clear plans of action to lines, etc. Jacob, a second grader, handle aggressive behaviors. Remember, we are responding to behaviors and not called me, explained the situation the individual. I highly recommend a “Jump-In Agreement” between co-workers. and asked if our maintenance When a client becomes aggressive toward one staff member, co-workers should have staff could paint some lines on permission to step in and ask if they may help with the issue. That way the irate client the grass, which we did. Now, has to retell their story and can still stay upset with the fi rst employee while directing they can play football, soccer, their attention toward the co-worker. The more the story is told, the more likely the lacrosse, or any other rectangle behavior will calm and communications clear. It is a GAME and needs to be planned sport within those lines without and practiced. If a team has no “Jump-In Agreement,” someone may feel the client and confl icts on who is inbounds co-worker are both questioning their authority when the co-worker steps in to help with or out-of-bounds. The children solutions. Such misunderstandings can further escalate the situation. are getting outside, playing (exercising), having fun, learning NCCU ACCREDITATION CONTINUES! to get along with others and The Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Studies program at NC Central University has solving differences the “old successfully-completed its Continuing Accreditation Process. On October 12, the Council school way.” It was a simple on Accreditation (COA) voted to affi rm the accreditation status of the program at the solution to a simple request that NRPA Congress in Baltimore, MD. The program received initial accreditation in 1998. The will pay off for many years to COA also bestowed a commendation for the program, based on service learning. come, I hope!

22 NCRPA news • Spring 2009 WITHERS & RAVENEL FIRM WINS THREE NCASLA AWARDS RECEIVES HONORS The North Carolina Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (NCASLA) has honored HadenStanziale with three awards. Two projects received an Withers & Ravenel has been Honor Award for outstanding, imaginative and well-resolved solutions that achieve the ranked 58th among the 200 fastest- project’s purpose: Minnie Evans Sculpture Garden at Airlie Gardens in Wilmington, and growing architecture, engineering and East Coast Greenway in Georgetown and Horry Counties, South Carolina. One project environmental consulting fi rms in the received a Merit Award for a creative and functional solution that achieves its purpose: United States on the 2008 “hot fi rm Little Sugar Creek Greenway – Westfi eld Road Section in Charlotte. HadenStanziale has list” annual ranking by management received 8 NCASLA awards in three years and 17 NCASLA awards in the fi rm’s 13- consulting fi rm ZweigWhite. year history. ZweigWhite’s list of 200 fi rms HadenStanziale is a landscape architecture, land planning, and civil engineering fi rm ranks design and environmental fi rms with offi ces located in Durham, Charlotte and Wilmington. Areas of expertise include nationwide that have outperformed large-scale land planning, urban design, recreation planning, graphics, detailed design, land the economy and competitors to development engineering, wastewater engineering and construction documentation. become industry leaders, based on gross revenue. The list includes fi rms based in the United States and Canada, deriving the majority of their revenue from the practice of architecture, engineering, planning, environmental consulting, or allied disciplines. Additionally, Withers & Ravenel is pleased to announce that the fi rm Four reasons why the Pilot Rock brand is your best has won a 2008 Award of Merit choice for park, street, and camp site furnishings. from the North Carolina Chapter Across the different product lines there are hundreds of American Society of Landscape of variations offering you choices in style, size, Architects for the Black Creek features, materials, and colors. Greenway relocation project. The We design and manufacture them ourselves... Black Creek Greenway project commercial quality products able to withstand years involved relocation of 1,400 feet of use and exposure. Built in the USA since 1959. of a public greenway trail, located near a new apartment complex in the Weston Proposed Development District along Lake Crabtree in Cary.

Recreational Insurance S pecialty Risk Teams YMCA Leagues nc. Schools Camps Colleges Special Events I Universities Skateboard Parks Churches Municipalities f: 803-329-8683 p: 800-849-0293 [email protected] Rock Hill, SC 29733

338513_Specialty.indd 1 1/7/08 6:48:11410942_rjthomas.indd PM 1 Spring 2009 • NCRPA 1/8/09news 23 8:00:21 AM the short side BY DAVID LEE, DIRECTOR, WILSON PARKS AND RECREATION

Kids Ask…Parents Try To Answer

ad, what are those people doing out “Does it hurt to die in your sleep?” I was beginning to there?” my six-year-old son asked. We feel a little overmatched. were on our way to soccer practice and “Mason, I’m not sure, but I don’t think it does.” had just passed the cemetery on Nash He then let me in on his master plan. “When I get old, Street.“D I hadn’t noticed anybody out there when we went by I’m just going to stay in my bed and sleep all the time. That and just assumed it was a mid-week funeral. way when I die I will already be asleep and it won’t hurt.” “It is probably a funeral, Mason.” I hoped it was the last I’ll be honest. I didn’t really know how to respond to question he had, but I know my son and I knew some more that one. A six-year-old shouldn’t be putting a lot of time were coming. This was usually our time together without into thinking about how he might die and I don’t think mom, or his older brother, and I was looking for a lighter mine has or does. I do know certain subjects pop into their subject to talk about. I wasn’t really ready for a parent-to- heads and then right back out at that age, but I hadn’t really child teaching moment, but my youngest son was looking ever thought about funerals, illnesses, nursing homes, and for some answers. gravesites from a six-year-old perspective. “But there were only two people out there. Why?” Looking back, I wished I had told Mason that he had a “Maybe they are leaving some fl owers on the gravesite full lifetime of experiences ahead of him. Most would be for whoever passed away,” was all I could come up with. good. Some might not be so good. Some would be simple “What good does that do? They are already gone. They and clear. Others might be complicated and kind of cloudy. don’t know there are any fl owers out there.” I should have told him to enjoy each day and try to fi nd I was ready for this one. I had a great answer. “It is out a reason to enjoy each person he meets along the way. I of love and respect for whoever passed away. It’s a way of wanted to tell him life, for the most part, is what you make remembering them.” out of it. Good things usually happen to good people. I “Don’t you love Granny?” My grandmother passed away wanted to tell him he had a lot of good times and good about two years ago and it was the fi rst funeral Mason had friends to look forward to before he had to worry about attended. He was four at the time. dying. Instead, I heard myself say. “Don’t worry about that. “Of course I do. I really wish you would have gotten to That’s a long time away.” know her better before she got sick. She was a lot of fun. I know. Real smooth. Nice teaching moment between You would have really liked her a lot.” father and son. We hear all the time about how diffi cult it “You haven’t put any fl owers around her gravesite.” I is to be a kid, growing up these days. But, let me tell you was starting to wonder if I needed a Dr. Phil parenting book, something, it isn’t easy being a parent either. Our kids need plus, he was right. I hadn’t visited her gravesite the few us to answer their questions. Sometimes, the answers are times we had been to Tabor City. easy; sometimes, they aren’t. It’s a lot of pressure. After “Your uncle makes sure there are fl owers for Granny. He that conversation with Mason, I’m suddenly a little worried lives in Tabor City, so he is near the gravesite.” about how to handle the “birds and bees” talk with both of Then Mason switched gears on me. “I remember that my sons in the (hopefully) way distant future. I’m going to hospital she stayed in and she always rode around in a need some help. Maybe, a little advice from someone, who wheelchair. Did Granny die in her sleep?” has been there, might help. “Yes, she did. After she got sick, she had to stay in that I might get some answers to some of my questions. nursing home to help her get better. They took care I think I’ll ask my dad. of her.” I bet he will know.

24 NCRPA news • Spring 2009 advertiser.com AQUATIC EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIES Empex Watertoys Blue Ridge Learning Centers, Inc. ... www.brlc.org ...... 25 591 Albright Road Cape Fear Turf Farm Inc ...... www.capefearturff arm.com ...... 25 Uxbridge, ON L9P 1R4 Phone: (905) 649-5047 Carolina Courtworks ...... www.carolinacourtworks.com ...... 5 Fax: (905) 649-1757 Correction Enterprises ...... www.doc.state.nc.us ...... 25 E-mail: [email protected] Cromer’s ...... www.cromers.com ...... 9 Web: www.watertoys.net Empex Watertoys ...... www.watertoys.net ...... 25 Since 1986, Empex Watertoys® has been an innovator of unique interactive Aquatic Playgrounds and GameTime/Cunningham Sprayparks, providing interactive water play for hotels Associates, Inc ...... www.cunninghamassoc.com ..... Inside Back Cover and resorts, municipal parks and recreation facilities, HadenStanziale ...... www.hadenstanziale.com ...... 19 housing complexes, YMCA’s, YWCA’s, campgrounds, Hunter-Knepshield Co...... www.hunterknepshield.com ...... 9 zoos, military bases, waterparks and amusement parks. JDavis Architects ...... www.jdavisarchitects.com ...... 26 SOD/TURF NURSERIES KorKat, Inc ...... www.korkat.com ...... 26 McGill Associates ...... www.mcgillengineers.com ...... 19 Medallion Athletic Products ...... www.medallionathletics.com .....Inside Back Cover Mills International, Inc...... www.millsinternationalinc.com ...... 20 Most Dependable Fountains, Inc ...... www.mostdependable.com .....Outside Back Cover Cape Fear Turf Farm Inc Musco Sports Lighting ...... www.musco.com ...... Outside Back Cover 409282_cape_fear.indd1845 South Elwell 1 Ferry 12/11/08 Road 9:17:11 AM Oakland Plantation Turf Farm ...... www.ncturfgrass.com ...... Inside Front Cover Council, NC 28434 Playworld Carolinas ...... www.playworldcarolinas.com ...... 14 Phone: (910) 669-2295 Fax: (910) 669-3084 R.J. Th omas Mfg. Company, Inc./ E-mail: [email protected] Pilot Rock ...... www.pilotrock.com ...... 23 Web: www.capefearturffarm.com Rivers & Associates, Inc...... www.riversandassociates.com ...... 26 It is at Cape Fear Turf Farm! Founded in 2000, Rubber Wholesalers, Inc...... www.rubbersurfacesinc.com ...... 5 Garrtis “Pistol” McLean, Cape Fear Turf Farm is currently a large producer of fresh cut sod. Today, Specialty Risk, Inc ...... www.specialtyriskinc.com ...... 23 Cape Fear Turf Farm manages over 1,000 acres and Th e Parking Place ...... www.theparkingplaceinc.com ...... 20 offers seven varieties of warm-season grasses including Woodplay of the Carolinas ...... www.woodplaync.com ...... 15 Bermuda, Centipede, St. Augustine and Zoysia.

412456_Blue.indd 1 12/14/08 1:09:55410452_Correction.indd PM 1 Spring 2009 • NCRPA11/27/08 news 7:15:29 25 PM advertiser index

ADULT FITNESS Playworld Carolinas ...... 14 AQUATIC EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIES Empex Watertoys ...... 25 ARCHITECTS & ENGINEERS JDavis Architects ...... 26 ARTIFICIAL TURF Medallion Athletic Products ...... Inside Back Cover ATHLETIC SURFACES & COATING Carolina Courtworks ...... 5 BASKETBALL GOALS/BACKSTOPS Carolina Courtworks ...... 5 CHALLENGE COURSES & CLIMBING WALLS Blue Ridge Learning Centers, Inc...... 25 CONCESSION EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES Cromer’s ...... 9 ENGINEERING McGill Associates ...... 19 Rivers & Associates, Inc...... 26 FLOORING Medallion Athletic Products ...... Inside Back Cover FOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES Most Dependable Fountains, Inc .....Outside Back Cover

411748_Korkat.indd 1 12/9/08 11:14:46LANDSCAPE AM ARCHITECTURE HadenStanziale ...... 19 JDavis Architects ...... 26 McGill Associates ...... 19 LAWN EQUIPMENT Mills International, Inc...... 20 MODULAR RESTROOMS & TRAIL BUILDINGS Bond Park Hunter-Knepshield Co...... 9 Cary, North Carolina ORGANIC FERTILIZER & SOIL AMENDMENT NEEDS Winslow Turf ...... 7 PARK & PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT R.J. Th omas Mfg. Company, Inc./Pilot Rock ...... 23 PARK AMENITIES KorKat, Inc ...... 26 PARKING AREA SUPPLIES & MATERIALS Th e Parking Place ...... 20 PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT GameTime/Cunningham 298606_JDavis.indd 1 9/15/06 8:24:23 AM Associates, Inc...... Inside Back Cover Playworld Carolinas ...... 14 Woodplay of the Carolinas ...... 15 RECREATIONAL EQUIPMENT Medallion Athletic Products ...... Inside Back Cover RECREATIONAL INSURANCE Specialty Risk, Inc ...... 23 RECYCLED PARK/PLASTIC PRODUCTS Correction Enterprises ...... 25 RUBBER SURFACING Rubber Wholesalers, Inc...... 5 SKATE PARKS Playworld Carolinas ...... 5 SOD/TURF NURSERY Cape Fear Turf Farm Inc ...... 25 Oakland Plantation Turf Farm ...... Inside Front Cover Winslow Turf ...... 7 SPORTS EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIES Carolina Courtworks ...... 5 SPORTS LIGHTING Musco Sports Lighting ...... Outside Back Cover TRACTORS Mills International, Inc...... 20

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