NCRPA Profi le:NCRPA Profi le:Asheville Parks, Recreation & Cultural ArtsAsheville Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts2008 Annual Conference Preview2008 Annual Conference PreviewP&R Under ConstructionP&R Under Construction

A P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E N O R T H C A R O L I N A R E C R E A T I O N & P A R K A S S O C I A T I O N

NCRPA Profi le:NCRPA Profi le:Asheville Parks, Recreation & Cultural ArtsAsheville Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts2008 Annual Conference Preview2008 Annual Conference PreviewP&R Under ConstructionP&R Under Construction

INSIDE:INSIDEINSIDE::

FALL 2008FALL 2008

©2008 Musco Lighting · ADNC08-3

www.musco.come-mail: lighting@musco.com

For details contact:

Dina Neeley 800/825-6030 (toll-free)

336/414-1030 (mobile)dina.neeley@musco.com

Jerry Magovern 800/825-6030 (toll-free)

910/210-7362 (mobile)jerry.magovern@musco.com

Light·Structure Green™ reduces your sports-lighting operating cost by 50% or more with less energy consumption, cuts spill light by 50%, and eliminates 100% of your maintenance costs for the next 25 years. We guarantee it!

From foundation to poletop, Light·Structure Green makes your sports-lighting projects fast, trouble-free, and now more affordable than ever.

Unequaled performance . . . for your budget, for the environment.

Musco’s Newest Innovation...

WE’VE LEARNED A LOT FROM

30 YEARS OF SPORTS LIGHTING INNOVATIONINCLUDING HOW TO DO IT FOR

HALF THE OPERATING COST.

383173_Musco.indd 1 5/16/08 1:13:09 PM

Durham • Charlotte • Wilmington800.286.7440www.hadens tanz ia le .co mwww.hadens tanz ia le .co mwww.hadens tanz ia le .co mwww.hadens tanz ia le .co mwww.hadens tanz ia le .co m

lake johnson parklake johnson parklake johnson parklake johnson parklake johnson parkraleigh, nc

avon/catawba greenwayavon/catawba greenwayavon/catawba greenwayavon/catawba greenwayavon/catawba greenwaygastonia, nc

hillside parkhillside parkhillside parkhillside parkhillside parkdurham, nc

airlie gardensairlie gardensairlie gardensairlie gardensairlie gardenswilmington, nc

nevin community parknevin community parknevin community parknevin community parknevin community parkcharlotte, nc

HadenStanzialeplanninglandscape architecturecivil engineering

275638_Haden.indd 1 3/2/06 8:46:39 AM

Fall 2008 • NCRPA news 3

5 From the President

Calendar of Events

6 NCRPA Board of Directors

7 NCRPA ProfileAsheville Parks, Recreation

& Cultural Arts

8-9 Under Construction

10-12 Hot Topics in P&R

14-16 Association NewsNCRPA Conference – R U Going?

17 People in the News

18-19 The Mailbox

20 The Short SideBy David Lee

21-22 Advertiser Index

A publication of the North CarolinaRecreation & Park AssociationVol. 62, No. 3 • Fall 2008

NCRPA Marketing CommitteeLaurie Thore, Chair, Greensboro, NCRon Beverly, Winston-Salem, NCKaren Brady, Fayetteville-Cumberland County, NCHaley Gingles, Winston-Salem, NCBlaine Gregory, Mecklenburg County, NCDavid Lee, Wilson, NCChristen McNamara, Asheville, NC

To submit information for NCRPA news,please e-mail articles, stories, and photos to: ncrpa@bellsouth.net

883 Washington StreetRaleigh, NC 27605(919) 832-5868(919) 832-3323 (fax)ncrpa@bellsouth.net

Visit NCRPA online at:www.ncrpa.net

Published by

Naylor, LLC 5950 NW First PlaceGainesville, Florida 32607Phone: (800) 369-6220or (352) 332-1252 Fax: (352) 331-3525www.naylor.com

Publisher: Kathleen Gardner

Editor: Christine Cusatis

Marketing: Heather Zimmerman

Project Manager: Jason Dolder

Publication Director: Eric Singer

Advertising Sales: Janet Corbe, Erik Henson, Bill Mulligan, Talia Pate, Mark Tumarkin

Layout and Design: Emma Law

Advertising Art: David Cheetham

© 2008 Naylor, LLC. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher.

Please support the advertisers who made this publication possible.

PUBLISHED AUGUST 2008/CPR-Q0308/6908

FALL 2008

On the Cover...

Explore the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains!

Photo courtesy of Asheville Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts.

contents

4 NCRPA news • Fall 2008372283_SiteSol.indd 1 2/28/08 7:40:14 PM

382798_Correction.indd 1 6/14/08 10:08:50 AM

382646_McGill.indd 1 6/2/08 11:17:51 AM

OCTOBER 7-9Athletic Director’s WorkshopWinston-Salem, NCContact: Adam McComb336-401-8235mccomba@co.surry.nc.us

OCTOBER 10NC Recreation and ParkScholarship Foundation MeetingLocation: TBAContact: Tom Wells919-234-9426twells15@nc.rr.com

OCTOBER 14-18NRPA Congress & ExpositionBaltimore, MDContact: NRPA703-858-0784 info@nrpa.org

The old saying “time fl ies when you are having fun” sure hits home with me. It is hard to believe that it has been almost a year since the conference in Charleston and being sworn in as your president. A lot has been accomplished during this time toward the initiatives that were shared with our members at this meeting. Headway continues in developing a strategy for completing an economic impact study on the value of parks and recreation in our state. Thanks to the assistance of Dr. Larry Gustke at NC State, we now feel that we are on the right track.

Another initiative that was discussed was agency accreditation. We are proud of Salisbury, Cary, Greensboro and Asheville for being the four accredited departments in our state. Our goal is to encourage more departments, big and small, to strive to “raise the bar” by completing this worthwhile process. I have heard a number of comments about the overwhelming process that is required to complete this goal and it can be very daunting. However, the benefi ts outweigh the time and energy spent to do this. Agency accreditation is the ultimate benchmarking

program of our profession. I have seen many departments go through the process and have heard testimonials about how it has changed their culture, improved morale, made them more effi cient and placed them on equal terms with police and fi re departments. Positions have been secured, funding increased and, more importantly, has made their department a leader in the organization and their community. Departments having as few as four full-time employees have been accredited and, frankly, did a better job on completing the process than some who have 4,500 full-time employees.

At our conference in November, a four-hour workshop will be given on agency accreditation. At this workshop, participants will not only learn all the aspects of the program, but will also become a certifi ed visitor, who will be part of the team that visits the agency to review their self-assessment. Being a visitor is the best way to learn and see the excitement that is generated by going through accreditation.

Again, as your president, my main goal is to assist each department and individual to raise the awareness and importance of our profession. Agency accreditation is the best way I have seen to do this in my 30+ years of service.

Calendar of Events

RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATION

NOVEMBER 8-12NCRPA Annual ConferenceCharlotte, NCContact: NCRPA919-832-5868ncrpa@bellsouth.net

NOVEMBER 9NCRPA Board of Directors MeetingCharlotte, NCContact: Irby Brinson828-684-2113brinsonhouse@bellsouth.net

JANUARY 13-15SWAC Winter MeetingWilmington, NCContact: Adam Crocker910-295-2817acrocker@villageofpinehurst.org

from the presidentBY IRBY BRINSON

ONLINE INFORMATION...check it out!

www.ncrpa.net• Event Information• Educational Opportunities• Resource Links & more!

Call NCRPA at (919) 832-5868 todayor e-mail us at ncrpa@bellsouth.net

Sincerely,

Fall 2008 • NCRPA news 5

6 NCRPA news • Fall 2008

382956_Woodplay.indd 1 5/25/08 12:06:02 PM

382773_Rubber.indd 1 5/22/08 3:15:01 PM

North Carolina Recreation & Park Association2008 Board of Directors

Executive CommitteeIrby Brinson, President, Arden, NCAllen Oliver, 1st Vice President, High Point Parks & RecreationDavid Lee, 2nd Vice President, Wilson Parks & RecreationSusan Jenkins, Secretary, Clayton Parks & RecreationRoderick Simmons, Treasurer, Asheville Parks, Recreation & Cultural ArtsNeal Lewis, Past President, New Hanover County ParksMike Waters, Executive Director, NC Recreation & Park Association

NRPA South Regional RepresentativesLarry Bailey, Clayton Parks & RecreationCandice Bruton, Greensboro Parks & RecreationErma Deen Hoyle, Lincoln County RecreationKeith Jenkins, Cary Parks, Recreation & Cultural ResourcesButch Kisiah, Chapel Hill Parks & RecreationDan Maxson, Greensboro Parks & RecreationMorry Watkins, Brunswick County Parks & Recreation Advisory CommissionLisa Wolff, Burlington Parks & Recreation

Region ChairsRegion 1 ~ Warren Mitchell, Tarboro Parks & RecreationRegion 2 ~ Mark Seymour, Craven County Recreation & ParksRegion 3 ~ Julie Strickland, Columbus County Parks & RecreationRegion 4 ~ Chris Duty, Cary Parks, Recreation & Cultural ResourcesRegion 5 ~ Kim Porter, Greensboro Parks & RecreationRegion 6 ~ John Torian, Winston-Salem Recreation & ParksRegion 7 ~ Becky Tolle, Kannapolis Parks & RecreationRegion 8 ~ Steve Jones, Hickory Parks & RecreationRegion 9 ~ LuAnn Bryan, Recreation Resources Service

Section ChairsAdministration ~ Lee Tillery, Matthews Parks, Recreation & Cultural ResourcesAthletics ~ Braxton Patterson, Wilson Parks & RecreationCBM ~ Larry Huelsman, Mecklenburg County Park & Recreation CommissionEducation ~ Stephanie West, Appalachian State UniversityPark Services ~ John Hill, Person County Recreation, Arts & ParksPrograms ~ Steve White, Raleigh Parks & RecreationTherapeutic ~ Randy Shaw, Asheville Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts

Standing Committee ChairsCitations & Awards ~ Phil McKnelly, National Association of State Park DirectorsConference Selection ~ Keith Jenkins, Cary Parks, Recreation & Cultural ResourcesFinance ~ Roderick Simmons, Asheville Parks, Recreation & Cultural ArtsLegislative ~ Larry Bailey, Clayton Parks & RecreationMarketing ~ Laurie Thore, Greensboro Parks & RecreationMembership ~ Londa Strong, Cabarrus County ParksProcedures ~ Larry Philpott, Fayetteville, NCProfessional Development ~ Sam Trogdon, Cary Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources

Ad-Hoc Committee ChairsAnnual Conference ~ Jim Garges, Mecklenburg County Park & RecreationAnnual Conference ~ Greg Jackson, Mecklenburg County Park & RecreationEndowment for Parks & Recreation ~ Mac Sligh, Onslow County Parks & RecreationEndowment for Parks & Recreation ~ Kathy White, Tobaccoville, NCNominations & Elections ~ Neal Lewis, New Hanover County Parks

Agency LiaisonsNC Association of Senior Citizens Clubs ~ Mary Brymer-Chanza, Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks & RecreationNC Senior Games ~ Lee Perry, Manteo, NCNCDENR ~ Lewis Ledford, NC Division of Parks & RecreationRecreation Resources Service ~ Pete Armstrong, Raleigh, NC

Fall 2008 • NCRPA news 7

ncrpa profile

Asheville – A Mountain Recreation ExperienceBY DEBBIE IVESTER, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, ASHEVILLE PARKS, RECREATION & CULTURAL ARTS

Surrounded by thousands of acres of national forest and parklands, Asheville uniquely delivers an urban recreation

experience and provides a gateway to the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. In a community known for being eclectic, the City of Asheville is committed to delivering an excellent quality of service to enhance the community’s quality of life. Asheville succeeds through the work of its award-winning and accredited Asheville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department, which offers comprehensive public parks, greenways and recreation services.

Asheville features more than 50 parks, a collection of recreation centers and several special use facilities. Prominent among these facilities is the Asheville Municipal Golf Course, a popular and challenging 18-hole course, designed by renowned golf architect Donald Ross. The Western North Carolina Nature Center is also a top attraction in the region, featuring a 40-acre animal sanctuary for animals native to the southern Appalachians and an educational lab and farm.

Asheville is home to several notable sports facilities and special

events. The John B. Lewis Soccer Complex is a four-fi eld complex with synthetic turf, maximizing play throughout the year. Aston Park Tennis Center ranks high among tennis players throughout the region for its high quality clay courts. The Food Lion Skate Park, a 17,000-square foot concrete skateboard park, challenges the beginner to the most advanced skateboarder. McCormick Field, Asheville’s historic baseball stadium, is home to the Asheville Tourists, the minor league team of the Colorado Rockies.

Annual sport events are highlighted by the Hi Neighbor Volleyball Tournament and the Asheville City Open Tennis Championships. Both events draw top volleyball and tennis players from the Southeast, making for powerful competition and capturing regional attention.

Citizens and visitors to Asheville can experience outdoor natural areas without leaving the city. The French Broad and the Swannanoa Rivers traverse the city, making it a natural setting for greenways and river park destinations. Asheville’s growing greenway system and river parks will offer nearly 30 miles of

trails to connect people to the places where they live, work and play.

Beaucatcher Overlook Park, the newest addition to Asheville’s park system, preserves over 30 acres of prime urban forest, overlooking the downtown area. Once complete, Beaucatcher will offer an exceptional park and open space while preserving the largest single track of undeveloped land, remaining within the Asheville city limits.

Asheville consistently takes top ratings as a national arts and travel destination. Figuring prominently among the attractions is the Bele Chere Festival, a 30-year tradition of music and art, drawing 300,000 people to fi ll the streets for this downtown celebration. The Public Art Program plays a signifi cant role in the local art scene, highlighted by the Asheville Urban Trail, a historic walking trail which features major artwork throughout the downtown area.

Amid the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the City of Asheville ensures the community that the quality of life of this special place is enhanced by the Asheville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department.

8 NCRPA news • Fall 2008

New Reidsville Teen Center Building OpensBY NICK ACEVES, TEEN CENTER SUPERVISOR, REIDSVILLE PARKS & RECREATION

The Reidsville Teen Center program has moved into its new 3,000-square-foot building, which doubles the size of the old center. The almost four-year-old program is a non-athletic recreational-based program that offers activities such as three pool tables, two air hockey tables, video games, computers, arts & crafts, movies, special events and fi eld trips. The center uses these activities as a “front porch” method to get kids, ages 10-17, in the door so staff can mentor them on topics, including teen wellness/prevention, gang prevention, anger management and drug/alcohol use.

The program is funded through the Governor’s Crime Commission and the Annie Penn Community Trust Fund. The Reidsville City Council approved the purchase of the new building

when membership quickly outgrew the previous center. The larger building allows the staff to reach a broader spectrum of members while trying to help curb community juvenile delinquency, which is the center’s primary focus. Since the program began in 2004, more than 600 members have walked through the center’s door and it continues to operate as a free program.

Deppe Park OpensBY RICK PERRY, RECREATION SUPERVISOR, ONSLOW COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION

With a traditional ribbon cutting, Onslow County Parks and Recreation offi cially opened Deppe Park in Hofmann Forest on April 18. Approximately 150 residents of Northern Onslow County and the Deppe community attended the ceremony.

The county’s newest park includes a tot-lot playground area, sand volleyball court, horseshoe pit, picnic pavilion and walking trail. More amenities are planned in future stages of development. Phase I development on ten of the 373 available acres includes roads, parking, waterlines, landscaping, sidewalks, signage, attendant shed and restrooms.

“Parks need to be scattered around the county, so no one has to drive more than 15 minutes,” says Onslow County Board of Commissioners Chairman, Lionell Midgett. “The fact that the land was donated was a bonus for the county and several businesses also stepped up to donate money and equipment for the park that helped us a great deal.”

The North Carolina State University College of Natural Resources is one of the partners that supported the county in the Deppe Park project. Other partners include The Hofmann Forest Foundation and civic groups.

Deppe Park in Hofmann Forest will be open year-round. For more information, contact Onslow County Parks and Recreation at (910) 347-5332, or visit online at: www.onslowcountync.gov

under construction

Mountain Park Community ParkBY ADAM MCCOMB, DIRECTOR, SURRY COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION

The small rural community of Mountain Park, located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Surry County, is now able to use a newly-renovated community park, located on school property. This collaborative effort between Surry County Parks & Recreation Department and Surry County Schools was completed in May. The new park has a concessions facility, picnic shelter, amphitheater, walking track, parking areas and a new softball and soccer fi eld. The grand opening for the park was held at the communities’ annual July 4th Celebration.

Fall 2008 • NCRPA news 9

New Complex Brings Many Services Under One RoofBY CRYSTAL HYLTON, SERVICES COORDINATOR/ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT, WYTHEVILLE PARKS & RECREATION

The new 105,000-square-foot Wytheville Community Center complex opened in April 2007. The 70,900-square-foot recreation center provides a safe and inviting environment with year-around activities for citizens of all ages. It features a 3-D climbing wall, standing 25 feet high and 55 feet wide and providing adventurers with 11 different climbing routes. Walking and jogging enthusiasts can utilize the indoor, padded one-eighth mile walking/running track. Sport buffs enjoy the multi-purpose gymnasium, with two full basketball courts, 12 basketball goals, three offi cial size volleyball courts and three badminton courts. The Pool Plaza offers a six-lane lap swimming pool, attached to a zero-depth entry play park that features a fun slide, fountain, giant mushroom, therapy pool and hot tub.

In addition, there is a 4,000-square-foot fi tness center with strength equipment, cardiovascular equipment and free weights, a dance and aerobic studio, two racquetball courts, a Youth/Teen Center and Café, a Senior Citizen Lounge and three multipurpose rooms. There are various pass plan options available, including a day pass. The new complex also holds over 9,200-square-foot meeting center space and a Child Development Center.

For more information, please visit online at: www.wytheville.org.

New Visitor Center Opens At Dismal Swamp State Park BY DON REUTER, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, NC DIVISION OF PARKS AND RECREATION

A new 7,050-square-foot visitor center at Dismal Swamp State Park features an exhibit hall and a system of boardwalks, decks and gazebos that will allow park guests to experience the Great Dismal Swamp and learn about the area’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

A dedication ceremony at the 14,344-acre swath of conservation land in Camden County in March marked the opening of North Carolina’s 32nd state park. The initial facilities necessary to open Dismal Swamp State Park represent an investment of $3.5 million from the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, the principal funding source for state parks capital projects and land acquisition.

“Our system of state parks represents the variety and richness of North Carolina’s natural resources, and Dismal Swamp State Park takes its place among those jewels,” said Lewis Ledford, Director of the State Division of Parks and Recreation. “The park and its facilities are well-suited to further our mission of conservation, environmental education and recreation, and along with northeastern North Carolina, we take pride in its success.”

Race City USA (Mooresville, NC) Goes KaBOOM!BY TOM NIXON, ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR, MOORESVILLE RECREATION

Through a joint cooperative effort NASCAR legend and Home Depot’s First Humanitarian Award Winner Don Miller and the Town of Mooresville Recreation Department have joined teams! The victory is a KaBOOM playground, being built by NASCAR teams, Home Depot and a diverse and growing Mooresville population. This is truly a win for the community.

Miller said, “I want to give back to the community that has been so good to racing – after all, this is Race City USA!” Miller won the Humanitarian Award and playground for his years of hard work with Stop Child Abuse Now (SCAN). Racing is in his blood, but children are in his heart. To go one lap further, Miller has promised that after the KaBOOM playground is built in one day on October 8th with about 350 volunteers and with the national positive publicity, an additional special needs playground, tailored to this population, will be built by the racing community! Miller also said that this new park in Mooresville will soon be on a par with the Victory Junction facility in Randleman. Miller is a winner in our minds!

10 NCRPA news • Fall 2008

hot topics in p&r

Greensboro Parks & Recreation Commission Celebrates 75 Years!BY LAURIE THORE, MARKETING DIRECTOR, GREENSBORO PARKS & RECREATION

As the City of Greensboro celebrates its Bicentennial Anniversary this year, the Greensboro Parks & Recreation Commission celebrates its 75th Anniversary!

On November 7, 1933, the Greensboro City Council passed an ordinance that created the first recreation commission. This commission became instrumental in forming the Greensboro Parks & Recreation Department. The first task confronting the recreation commission was to employ a recreation director. On January 31, 1934, the commission unanimously approved the appointment of Daniel R. Neal as Recreation Director at a salary of $150, per month and a monthly allowance of $25 for transportation. Citizens believed that Greensboro was now entering upon a “worthy recreational program, properly supervised” and one that would not be restricted to physical education, but include activities in dance, music, storytelling and the dramatic arts. Over the years, the department would come to acquire over 3,500 acres of land and operate more than 170 parks, gardens and special facilities.

Today, the Greensboro Parks & Recreation Commission continues to serve in an advisory capacity to the department and the City Council, acting as liaison between these groups and our citizens. Nationally-accredited and three-time winner of the National Gold Medal, Greensboro Parks & Recreation is indeed “Reaching Out, Touching Lives” everyday!

Segway Adventure ToursBY MIKE COZZA

PUBLIC INFORMATION SPECIALIST

MECKLENBURG COUNTY PARK AND RECREATION

Mecklenburg Park and Recreation introduced “Segway Adventure Tours” last spring in the county’s largest nature preserve. The program is a great success. By early May, tours were sold out for months. Segways are battery-powered two-wheel personal transporters with gyroscopic balance and a top speed of 12 mph. They help people get around and see wildlife, natural areas and trails at Latta Plantation Nature Preserve, which covers 1,300 acres.

Segways allow visitors to cover a lot of ground and see Shady Trail, Buzzard Rock Trail, Latta Plantation and gorgeous views of Mountain Island Lake. Guided by park and recreation staff, tours are offered to adults (ages 18 years and over) by advance reservation. Each tour includes 30-45 minutes of Segway training. Most participants are surprised how easy it is to learn how to ride Segways. They must sign standard waivers and safety helmets are provided.

The tours are conducted twice daily on the fi rst and third weekends each month, with additional tours scheduled for groups. The charge is $35, per person. Mecklenburg purchased nine Segways for about $5,000 each. Nature Preserves Director Michael Kirschman says, “The program is so popular that the Segways will pay for themselves in less than three years, if current rental trends continue.”

Special Population’s “Day In The Park”BY LORICE G. SMITH, LICENSED RECREATION THERAPIST, GOLDSBORO PARKS & RECREATION

On May 8, “Day In The Park” was held in Goldsboro with fun-fi lled activites, designed for a diverse group of individuals with specialized needs. This was a day for people of all ages to focus on leisure, recreation, and unlimited enjoyment. Activities included a petting zoo with all types of animals and horseback rides, Wild Heart DJ, karaoke, face painting, balloon art and water safety. The city’s fi refi ghters came out with their bright red fi retrucks and smokehouse demonstrations. In addition, carnival activities and games, included Pick Up Ducks, Bean Bag Toss, Wheelchair Race and Ring Toss. After lunch, participants were invited to create unique bead art, button making projects, and coloring sheets for the kids.

Each year, the Sunrise Kiwanis Club co-sponsors this exciting event, operates the train rides and offers free drinks. Participants are asked to bring their own lunch. Be Active NC also took part in the event as the kids enjoyed a variety of physical activities. The Ruitan Club returned this year to give out free ice cream. Over 1,100 individuals participated in “Day in the Park” and local schools volunteered as one of their community service projects.

Fall 2008 • NCRPA news 11

Ask RRS?BY STEVE MOLER, CONSULTANT

RECREATION RESOURCES SERVICE

Q. Why does RRS offer training opportunities through a teleconference series?

A. Recreation Resources Teleconference Series began in an effort to provide continuing education opportunities to professionals across the state at convenient locationsand minimal cost. The teleconferences are conducted at nine locations across the state at a cost of $30, per person. Each teleconference begins at 9 a.m. and fi nishes at noon. Each year, the teleconference series runs September through May. Some of the subjects offered in the past years have included Gang Awareness, Master Planning, Legal Issues, Senior Programming, Outdoor Adventure Programming, Summer Camps, Grant Writing, Park Maintenance and Writing a PARTF or LWCF Grant application. Subjects selected for the teleconferences have been chosen by an advisory committee. The committee uses the responses from a survey that was completed three years ago and from suggestions from professionals in the fi eld. Subjects for September through December 2008 are as follows:

• September – Writing a PARTF Grant Application

• October – New Trends in Parks and Recreation

• November – Legal Issues in Parks and Recreation

• December – Taking the Fear Out of Grant Writing

State Parks Report Record AttendanceBY DON REUTER, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, NC DIVISION OF PARKS AND RECREATION

State parks in North Carolina reported record attendance in 2007 of 13.4 million visits, despite a prolonged drought that closed facilities at some parks and curtailed the summer season for swimming and boating. Visitation totals represent an increase of 6.5 percent over 2006 and a dramatic 260 percent increase over the past 25 years. In 1982, 5.1 million people visited the state parks system. The previous high attendance for the system was 13.2 million in 2002.

“Strong visitation at our parks refl ects the value North Carolinians place on outdoor recreation and the contribution of the state parks system to North Carolina’s tourism economy and to the economies of the communities where the parks are located,” said state parks director Lewis Ledford. “The state’s population growth has increased pressure on our infrastructure of state parks as it has in other areas. We are addressing that with our New Parks for a New Century initiative, which has brought four new state parks into development.”

The state parks system manages nearly 200,000 acres, including 31 state parks and four state recreation areas that are open to the public, and a system of state natural areas, dedicated to conservation of natural resources.

Spring Break ’08 College TourBY TAMEKA DELMAR, PROGRAM COORDINATOR, NEW BERN PARKS AND RECREATION

During the 2008 high school students’ spring break, New Bern Parks and Recreation sponsored a college tour. The tour was open to all high school students from New Bern, Havelock, West Craven and Jones Senior High School. The students visited six different colleges, which included the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, Winston-Salem State University, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in Greensboro, University of North Carolina at Pembroke, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina Central University. The purpose of this tour was to encourage and show local college-bound students the many colleges North Carolina has to offer.

The students went on a walking tour of each campus and received information from admissions, fi nancial aid and the bookstores to purchase college gear. Our tour guides allowed the students to walk through classes and their campus eateries. At the conclusion of the tour, students had a “wrap it up” session, which included alumni from the colleges. Due to the success of the program, New Bern Parks and Recreation will consider providing this teen opportunity in the future.

12 NCRPA news • Fall 2008

On March 28 the acting U.S. Surgeon General, Rear Admiral Steven K.Galson, M.D., M.P.H., visited Barwell Road Community Center, one of Raleigh Parks and Recreation’s newest additions. The stop was part of a nationwide tour to recognize communities that are working to prevent childhood obesity by promoting healthy lifestyles. As part of his visit, Galson went on a fun walk with the Barwell Road Community Center Track Out participants. The trail that was opened in 2007 was developed jointly with Wake County Human Services through a North Carolina Division of Public Health “Eat Smart, Move More” grant.

Raleigh Parks and Recreation realizes the importance of being part of the solution when fi ghting childhood obesity. The department makes healthy choices a part of our youth programs. Students have the opportunity to participate in recreation-based programming by exploring activities like dance and sports to get them moving everyday. In addition to physical activities, the department provides healthy snacks and educates the students on making healthy choices in their lives. Exposing children to these activities at an early age serves as a start to an active, healthy lifestyle.

Acting U.S. Surgeon General Visits Raleigh Parks & RecreationBY CARA MCLEOD, MARKETING COORDINATOR, RALEIGH PARKS & RECREATION

VISIT US ONLINE TO LEARN WHY WE’RE THE WORST!

CROMER’SHELPS YOU TREAT

THEM RIGHT Cromer’s is your source for equipment, supplies and service for popcorn, cotton candy, candy apples, hot dogs and roasted p-nuts. Whether you buy the equipment and supplies to make the treats yourself, or purchase our prepackaged goods,

you’ll always be sure to treat them right! Cromer’s also offers quality promotional products including t-shirts, water bottles and anything

your company might need its logo on!

AUTHORIZED DEALER & REPAIR CENTER FOR &

CALL US TO LEARN MORE

TOLL FREE 800-322-76881700 HUGER ST, COLUMBIA SC

cromers.com

383030_Cromer.indd 1 6/9/08 2:58:57 PM350879_Hunter.indd 1 1/8/08 11:12:47 PM

Fall 2008 • NCRPA news 13

Cape FearTurf Farm, Inc.

Is thegrass always

greeneron the other side?

Cape FearTurf Farm, Inc.

Over 30 Years of Experience in Turfgrass

It is at Cape Fear Turf Farm! Founded in 2000, by owner& operator, Garrtis "Pistol" McLean, Cape Fear Turf Farmis a large producer of fresh cut sod. Pistol started sellingsod in March 2001 from 60 acres of centipede grass.Since that time, Cape Fear Turf Farm has experiencedextraordinary growth.

Today, Cape Fear Turf Farm manages over 800 acres andoffers seven varieties of warm-season grasses includingBermuda, Centipede, St. Augustine and Zoysia.

Family plays a major role in the success and day-to-dayoperation of Cape Fear Turf Farm. Many of the 19 full-time employees arerelated includingPistol's wife, Wanda,who manages theoffice.

Cape Fear Turf Farm, Inc.1845 S. Elwell Ferry Road • Council, NC 28434

910.669.2293 Phone • 910.669.3084 Fax

373992_CapeFear.indd 1 4/22/08 4:42:04 PM

Design your ownWater Playground!Most Dependable Fountains, Inc. would enjoy helping you choose just the right products for your Water Playground. Customize your facility with an affordable, bright new Zero Depth Spray Park guaranteed to bring giggles and squeals from the park users.

Our Play Towers (shown here), specialty Misters and Play Spray Pads are reasonably priced, low maintenance and non-electric. Recycling equipment is not required so install and enjoy!

The PLAY TOWER ONE

is 7 feet tall and features 42 inches of a

cascading water effect.

The PLAY TOWER TWO is 3 feet 4 inches tall and features 20

inches of a soft spray pattern resembling a spider when

activated.

The PLAY TOWER THREE is 6 feet 3 inches to the spray

feature.

Design your ownWater Playground!

Standard Colors

Orange Green

Blue

Brown

YellowRed

Chrome

White

Black

Textured Colors

TextBlackEmerald

CopperPyrite

Gold Vein

Sapphire

Burgundy

Sandstone

Contact your Most Dependable Fountains, Inc. representative today!

Email: Bob@BeachumRecreation.com

Most Dependable Fountains,Inc.www.mostdependable.com

369083_Most.indd 1 2/8/08 1:51:26 PM

14 NCRPA news • Fall 2008

association news

Therapeutic Recreation Section Has Been Busy!BY TERESA WILLIAMS, LEISURE SERVICES COORDINATOR, COLLEGE PINES HEALTH & REHABILITATION CENTER,

THERAPEUTIC RECREATION SECTION CHAIR-ELECT

On March 17-18, the Therapeutic Recreation Section held its annual conference, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” in Hickory. Over 130 section members were in attendance, half professionals and the other half students. During the annual banquet, Mike Waters and Irby Brinson were on hand to present several awards as follows: Lynn Hecht, Individual TR Service; Chapel Hill Parks & Recreation and Orange County Recreation & Parks, Best New TR Program with Inclusive Chess Club; Durham Parks & Recreation Special Populations/Inclusion, Distinguished TR Department; Shalonda Carter, WSSU, Best TR Student Intern; and Stencil Robinson, Catawba College and Farrah Daye, WSSU, Student Scholarships.

Area facilities made huge contributions related to session topics. In other TR Section news, on May 13, the section held its annual retreat to gather ideas and suggestions to move forward at Ellis Park in Salisbury. Both events were exciting and produced some great information for those members in attendance. Check out the entertainment piece from the Conference Social. “Diana Ross & the TR Supremes” made their spring debut in style. Who was that crazy green haired lady, anyway?

NCRPA Annual Conference – R U Going?BY GREG JACKSON, DIVISION DIRECTOR, MECKLENBURG COUNTY PARK & RECREATION AND NCRPA CONFERENCE CO-CHAIR

Charlotte is hot and not just in the summer! Charlotte’s “Uptown” has developed into a vibrant entertainment district and NCRPA’s conference November 8-12 will be right in the middle of it. The conference will offer great education sessions and fun social events for NCRPA members and guests. We will also have off-site institutes around Mecklenburg County including trips to the U.S. National Whitewater Center, greenways, nature preserves and water parks.

New for 2008 is the Monday luncheon with keynote speaker, retired Carolina Panthers star Mike Rucker. He will talk about the importance of physical activity and being involved in the community. The luncheon is sponsored by Be Active NC and Hop Sports. They will introduce a new program to help youngsters be more physically active.

Evening social activities include a center city crawl/scavenger hunt and casino night. For a complete listing of sessions, activities and a biography of Rucker visit the annual conference section of the NCRPA website: www.ncrpa.net. Make plans now to attend a conference you don’t want to miss!

Fall 2008 • NCRPA news 15

Lobby Day 2008BY LARRY BAILEY, DIRECTOR, CLAYTON PARKS & RECREATION & NCRPA LEGISLATIVE CHAIR

On May 20, NCRPA was well-represented with 23 parks and recreation offi cials in the halls of the Legislative building in Raleigh for the annual Land for Tomorrow Lobby Day. Our offi cials joined representatives from other conservation groups to make personal visits with legislators and ask for their support of $174 million in this year’s budget to go for land and water conservation.

The $174 million request breaks down as follows: $150 million in new appropriations to be used by the Parks and Recreation, Natural Heritage and Clean Water Management Trust Funds, $20 million for the Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund and $4 million for a conservation-based affordable housing program.

Lobby Day also included an ice cream social and an evening reception at a local restaurant. The primary purpose of Lobby Day is for recreation professionals to make personal contact with legislators and thank them for their support of PARTF and other land conservation initiatives.

NCRPA Marketing Committee Moves ForwardBY LAURIE THORE, MARKETING DIRECTOR, GREENSBORO PARKS & RECREATION & NCRPA MARKETING COMMITTEE CHAIR

Your NCRPA Marketing Committee has made great strides this year in meeting its key initiatives. Our first NCRPA Annual Report went to press over the summer, highlighting the Association’s major accomplishments and activities for 2007. Our members now have an informative piece and one that tells a great story of partnerships, fundraising and statewide Region, Committee and Division outreach. Many thanks to 2007 NCRPA President Neal Lewis, Michelle Wells, Mike Waters and the Board of Directors for their contributions to this publication.

In addition, the Marketing Committee has created a new NCRPA brochure to help promote the Association throughout the state. In developing this piece, we networked with the Association staff, CBM Section, Membership Committee and the Professional Development Committee to come up with an informational brochure that could be customized with inserts and used by various Sections to educate folks in the public and private sector. If you are interested in obtaining copies of the brochure, contact Michelle Wells at: michelle@ncrpa.net.

Our next task is to take a look at a re-design of the NCRPA website, adding a fresh look, more links, special features and information to better meet the needs of our membership. Suggestions for website improvements have included: Region map with links to departments (or a general listing), expanded information on Regions and

Sections, a photo gallery of parks and recreation activities and events from across the state, photos and brief bios of Executive Board members, a Mapquest feature to direct members to the NCRPA office, archived information on the Endowment and Foundation funds, a barometer to measure membership growth and other Association goals, monthly profiles on Sections and Regions on the homepage and a sidebar/calendar of parks and recreation activities from across the state.

If you have other ideas on how to improve our Association’s website, please contact me at: laurie.thore@greensboro-nc.gov, or (336) 373-2947, so we can incorporate them into our fi nal design.

16 NCRPA news • Fall 2008

Region 4 Workshops A Success!BY CHRIS DUTY, ASSISTANT ATHLETIC FACILITY SUPERVISOR, CARY PARKS, RECREATION & CULTURAL RESOURCES & REGION 4 CHAIR

Region 4 offi cers stayed busy with planning and organizing workshops for the winter/spring and summer. On April 24th, the region hosted the “Field Management and Financial Planning for Athletic Fields” workshop in Cary at the USA Baseball National Training Complex. Approximately 40 participants gained knowledge from Cary’s Public Works Department staff that handles all maintenance for athletic fi elds throughout the town. The workshop focused on strategies that enabled participants to increase the safety, playability and longevity of a fi eld, as well as long-term fi nancial planning for a successful athletic fi eld maintenance program. We received a lot of positive feedback from the participants and hope to offer this workshop again next year at an alternate venue.

The summer workshop, entitled “Are Your Events Safe & Background Checks,” was offered on June 17th at Pullen Community Center in Raleigh. The workshop played host to approximately 19 participants. Bruce Crocker, Operations Analyst with the Town of Cary Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Department, relayed information to attendees regarding various components of background checks. Emphasis of sessions centered on the importance of background checks, as well as investigations and procedures. Various topics and scenarios were presented by Brian Taylor of Raleigh Parks and Recreation, from security issues and traffi c control to the use of infl atables and weather conditions.

We will continue to offer workshops that will enhance the jobs of the profession. If you have suggestions, please let the Region 4 offi cers know! Be on the lookout for some other great workshops!

Athletic Directors Workshop To Be Held In Winston-SalemBY ADAM MCCOMB, DIRECTOR, SURRY COUNTY PARKS & RECREATION & ADW CHAIR

The Athletic Directors Workshop (ADW) committee is looking forward to a great workshop in Winston-Salem this year. The workshop will be located at the Hawthorne Inn, in beautiful downtown Winston-Salem, convenient to local restaurants and entertainment. Special thanks go out to the 2008 ADW Steering Committee, who worked hard to target keynote speakers and session topics that are useful and of interest to athletic directors across the state. Please make plans early to attend this year’s workshop, you won’t be disappointed! For more schedule and registration information, visit online at www.ncrpa.net.

New Bill Passes To Protect Youth ID InformationBY MIKE WATERS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, NCRPA

Senate Bill 212, new legislation recently passed by the NC General Assembly, greatly affects the way parks and recreation departments can protect the identifying information of minors who are registered in their programs. Personal information used on a program application such as the child’s name, address, age, date of birth, telephone number and parent or legal guardian’s name and address, etc., is no longer considered public record. This information can be released as determined by individual agency guidelines. However, the child’s county of residence, municipality and zip code remain public record.

The primary goal of this legislation was to help protect the personal contact information of the minors enrolled in various parks and recreation programs around our state. This bill is not intended to exclude the promotion of parks and recreation activities, and each agency is encouraged to work with their local media to ensure that participants and the agency continue to receive recognition for their achievements.

The passage of this bill could not have been possible without the support of many of our NCRPA members. This support did not go unnoticed by one of the primary bill sponsors, Representative Alice Bordsen, who was very impressed by the statewide support she received while working on this bill.

As many of you interact with your house representatives and senators in the months ahead, I would encourage you to thank them for their support of this legislation that helps to protect the young people of our state. Again, allow me to thank the many NCRPA members, who responded to our action alerts relative to this matter and, as always, we appreciate your continued support of NCRPA and its related initiatives.

Fall 2008 • NCRPA news 17

IN THE NEWSpeople in the news

After nearly 35 years in the profession, Director of Garner Parks and Recreation Tom Maynard has announced his retirement, effective August 29.

After graduating from NC State University, Maynard started his career with Durham Parks and Recreation. After 22 years, he returned to his hometown of Garner. Tom plans to spend time with his family when not at the coast fi shing, biking and doing whatever he pleases!

♦

Dan Sullivan was selected as the new Director of Locust Parks & Recreation. Previously, Sullivan served as the Involvement Coordinator for River Mill Academy in Graham.

♦

Congratulations to Julie Strickland, who has been named director for Columbus County Parks and Recreation. Strickland previously served the agency as the Recreation Specialist.

♦

Adrienne Wallace has been named the fi rst Superintendent of the new Chimney Rock State Park, which is under development in Rutherford County. Wallace was formerly Superintendent of Mayo River State Park.

♦

Ali Turpen has been appointed as Director of Sampson County Parks and Recreation. Turpen has served as Acting Parks and Recreation Director since December 2007, when she was promoted from Assistant Director and Southern District Superintendent.

H. Wayne Mohr, Parks Superintendent with the New Hanover County Parks Department, retired on June 2, after 18 years of service. He was honored at a dinner provided by his staff and presented with silly and serious gifts. Mohr and his wife have a new travel trailer that they plan to keep on the road, visiting new and different places.

♦

On July 1, Stephanie West assumed the position of Director of the Recreation Management Program at Appalachian State University. Previous directors Wayne Williams and Paul Gaskill will remain on the faculty.

♦

Dave White, Athletic Coordinator for the Town of Huntersville Parks and Recreation was named Employee of the Quarter for his services,

January 1 through March 31, 2008. White was nominated by the staff for furthering the Department’s Youth Volleyball, Senior Softball and Start Smart programs.

♦

Dr. Joy James joined the Recreation Management faculty at Appalachian State University in the fall of 2007 and Kristian Jackson will begin a full-time appointment this fall. James’ professional background includes MWR, camps, the Girl Scouts and environmental education. Prior to working at ASU, Jackson worked full-time with the North Carolina Outward Bound program.

Jack Duncan retired from his position as Raleigh Parks and Recreation Director on June 1. Duncan made signifi cant contributions to the fi eld during his 38-year career and has led the Capital City’s Parks and Recreation Department since 1985. Since 1971, he has been involved with the Maintenance/Management School at North Carolina State University, serving multiple terms on the board.

♦

Jeremy Mize joins Site Solutions as a Landscape Architect in training. Mize received a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the University of Georgia. He will assist the park and recreation design team. Jeremy Dalton joins Site Solutions as an Intern Architect. He received a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Virginia. Dalton has experience with multi-family and commercial projects and will assist the park architecture group.

♦

Tim White has been selected to serve as Dare County Public Services Director. As Public Services Director, White will supervise the Parks and Recreation, Friends of Youth, Cooperative Extension and Older Adult Services programs for Dare County. He began his service with Dare County on May 27.

♦

Scott Barnard recently joined the New Hanover County Parks as the Parks Superintendent. Prior to joining the staff in New Hanover, Barnard served as Park Manager at Bass Lake Park with Holly Springs Parks & Recreation.

♦

Deb Bialeschki, retired Emeritus Professor from UNC-Chapel Hill, is working with the American Camp Association in Estes Park, Colorado as their Senior Researcher.

18 NCRPA news • Fall 2008

the mailbox

CONGRATULATIONS TOOXFORD PARKS & RECREATION!BY LINDA CHRISTENSEN

SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR

APOLLO SUNGUARD SYSTEMS

Apollo Sunguard is pleased to announce that the City of Oxford Parks and Recreation Department’s Oxford Athletic Facility has been chosen for our PlayTower Giveaway program. The shade structure will be installed at the Oxford Park Athletic Facility.

Apollo Sunguard also received the Gold Triangle Award from the American Academy of Dermatology. This award is to recognize and honor outstanding sun safety products and commitment to sun safety. The company received the award in recognition of their “Play in the Shade” program. They are the fi rst shade structure company to receive the national award.

PERFECT MARKS ONNATIONAL RE-ACCREDITATIONBY LEDA ISENHOUR

MARKETING SPECIALIST

CARY PARKS, RECREATION &

CULTURAL RESOURCES

Cary Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources (PRCR) renewed its status as the only agency in the Triangle and only one of 73 agencies in the United States to have received national accreditation from the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). Cary met 100 percent of the 155 standards that have been established by the CAPRA to evaluate agencies in such areas as Resource Management, Land Use Planning, Program and Services Management and Evaluation and Research. Thirty-six of the 155 standards are required of all agencies;

an agency must comply with at least 85 percent of the remaining standards to be granted accreditation. Cary’s PRCR Department fi rst received the accreditation in 2003 and must be re-visited to ensure compliance.

“As this award demonstrates, we remain dedicated to setting and achieving goals that will strengthen the quality of life for Cary citizens,” said Town Manager Bill Coleman. Coleman also noted that the town’s police and fi re departments are nationally accredited.

“We’re honored to once again receive this national recognition,” said Mary Henderson, Cary PRCR Director. “The accreditation process gives us the opportunity to look at our current operations and procedures in detail and see what is working well and where improvements can be made.”

Planning to retire in the next few months or have recently changed jobs? Contact the NCRPA offi ce to update your information and be included in the “People in the News” section of the magazine.

WITHERS & RAVENEL RECEIVES 2008 ACEC/NC ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE AWARD

Withers & Ravenel recently won an honors award for the Black Creek Greenway Relocation project from the American Council of Engineering Companies of North Carolina. The Black Creek Greenway project involved relocation of approximately 1,400 feet of a public greenway trail, located near a proposed apartment project in the Weston Proposed Development District along Lake Crabtree. Working with the Town of Cary, Highwoods Properties and Crosland, Withers & Ravenel provided engineering, mapping, and surveying services for the re-design of the popular public greenway and additional recreation amenities. Withers & Ravenel assisted Cary with project planning and public participation.

This project provides residents the opportunity to live, work and play

in close proximity, reducing the traffi c impacts of development.

Fall 2008 • NCRPA news 19

TOWN OF CARY – LAZY DAZE & SPRING DAZE AWARDSBY JOY COX, FESTIVALS COORDINATOR,

CARY PARKS, RECREATION &

CULTURAL RESOURCES

The Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival has been awarded the following from the North Carolina Association of Festivals and Events for 2007: Best Merchandise, 2nd place Best Poster and Best T-Shirt. Lazy Daze was voted “Best Community Event” by the readers of the Cary News. The Spring Daze Arts & Crafts Festival was awarded Best Brochure for 2007 by the North Carolina Association of Festivals and Events.

HIGH POINT PARKS AND RECREATION RECEIVES RECOGNITION

The High Point Convention and Visitor’s Bureau (CVB)’s “Bureau Award” was presented to High Point Parks and Recreation at the CVB’s annual meeting. Each year, the award is presented to an industry partner that is not a hotel or motel, but is responsible for generating visitors to High Point through the recipient’s own initiatives. Marva Wells presented the award to Allen Oliver, Director, along with several members of his staff. Wells commented that “High Point Parks and Recreation has helped grow and develop group event business in High Point.”

High Point Parks and Recreation also announced the opening of the Washington Terrace Community Center building addition. The 3,400-square-foot addition includes new offi ces for the center, a full-service catering kitchen, an auxiliary meeting room and a convention meeting room. The addition was offi cially dedicated on December 6, 2007.

RALEIGH PARKS AND RECREATION SELECTED FOR THE 2008 AQUATIC SAFETY AWARD BY CARA MCLEOD

MARKETING COORDINATOR

RALEIGH PARKS AND RECREATION

Raleigh Parks and Recreation Department’s Aquatics Division has been selected by the National Aquatics Branch of the National Recreation and Parks Association to receive the 2008 Aquatic Safety Award. “We are thrilled to have been selected for the 2008 Aquatic Safety Award,” says Terri Stroupe, Raleigh Parks and Recreation Department Aquatics Director. Annually, the NRPA National Aquatics Branch accepts nominations for this prestigious award, which represents deserving candidates throughout the United States. The award is presented to those who have demonstrated signifi cant contributions to the aquatics fi eld at the local, state and national levels. The Raleigh Parks and Recreation’s Aquatics Division was recognized and presented with this award at the National Aquatic Conference in Palm Springs, California in March.

2007 RRS SERVICES STUDY FOCUSES ON FEES & CHARGESBY PETE ARMSTRONG, DIRECTOR

RECREATION RESOURCES SERVICE

Are you looking for a comparable fee structure for your programs? Are you trying to calculate how many new employees should be hired for your new athletic complex? Have you ever needed a comparative salary study of department supervisors, during your budget process? Every year, Recreation Resources Service collects data for the Municipal and County Parks and Recreation Services Study (MCPRSS or “Services Study”) to answer those types of questions. There are data themes and current issues data collected on an annual basis. This data is designed to aid parks and recreation professionals with common, and sometimes not-so-common, data requests.

The results of the 2007 survey are available at http://cnr.ncsu.edu/rrs/pdfs/2007_08_services_study.pdf. For more information, contact Dallis Tucker at (252) 948-3889.

participants may join any of the 49 senior clubs located throughout Raleigh. The program makes it easy for seniors to join a club located in their own neighborhood or one that focuses on a certain activity. Seniors participating in the clubs can network and meet other seniors while having access to community resources.

For more information about the Senior Adult Program of Raleigh Parks and Recreation, call (919) 831-6851, or visit www.parks.raleighnc.gov.

Raleigh Parks and Recreation’s Senior Adult Program has been recognized for best practices by Aging in Place, an initiative of Partners for Livable Communities and the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging. The Senior Adult Program is one of the most extensive in the country, offering a variety of sports and recreational activities, day and overnight trips, educational seminars, workshops and volunteer opportunities. Rather than having a single senior center for the entire community, program

AGING IN PLACE RECOGNIZES SENIOR ADULT PROGRAMBY STEVE WHITE, RECREATION PROGRAM DIRECTOR, RALEIGH PARKS & RECREATION

20 NCRPA news • Fall 2008

the short sideBY DAVID LEE, DIRECTOR, WILSON PARKS AND RECREATION

What Are We Going To Do?

First of all, I want to thank everyone for their calls, cards and words of encouragement. My family has appreciated each and every one of them. It is very comforting to know we have such a strong support

team of family and friends. I’m not going to lie to you. It was a tough stretch in our home. We suffered a big loss and it was not an easy period in our lives, but I think we are going to be a better family for it. Let me explain for those of you who might not already know. We lost our satellite for ten days.

It all started on an extremely windy Saturday afternoon. My oldest son had a basketball game in the morning. We ate some lunch, and then settled in to watch our beloved Wolfpack blow another basketball game. One problem – we couldn’t get the game to come on. Upon further investigation, the wind had almost blown the satellite dish slam off the house. After a quick call to our provider, I learned they wouldn’t be able to get to us for ten days. All-out panic ensued in my house.

What were we going to do? No ACC games to watch. No Nickelodeon for my boys. They can’t live without “Drake and Josh.” No “General Hospital” on DVR for my wife. What about “Oprah”? Who was going to get voted off “American Idol”? What about “Lost”? What if they got off the island this week and I missed it? I didn’t even want to think about Monday night at 9 o’clock. That’s “Two and a Half Men.” I don’t even answer the phone during those thirty minutes. This wasn’t going to be easy.

My two sons and I started our recovery period by going outside and throwing some baseball to clear our heads. We played nine holes of golf and hit some balls on the range the next day. My wife cooked dinner that same night and we sat at the table together and talked without rushing to catch the end of a game. During the next week, we did all kind of things together that you can easily take for granted. My wife and kids went on a couple of bike rides. I lay in bed with my youngest son and listened to him read. We did homework at the kitchen table. I considered mowing the grass on Wednesday and then didn’t. My youngest son put his head under water for the fi rst time in the bathtub. My wife and I talked about our day at work and I actually listened without watching the ticker at the bottom of the screen on ESPN. It was nice.

Here is my point. I hope I’m doing a pretty good job as a parent and husband, but you never really know, do you? In my mind, I’m pretty involved with what is going

on in my home, but it was amazing the amount of small moments you can miss when you are rushing to get back to the television. The small moments are the most special, it seems. Like dinner together. Or bedtime stories. Or just lying in bed together. They just slip away, if you aren’t careful, and another week goes by.

Anyway, we survived our week and a half without a television. I think we are all the better for it. All in all, it was one of my favorite weeks as a family. Yes, the satellite is back working and we are back watching, but hopefully, it won’t control us. There are too many special moments and people around the house that I don’t want to miss.

Oh yeah, one more thing. Don’t tell my two sons, but I have a feeling their Play Station 2 is about to mysteriously get broken for a while. I’ll let you know how it goes.

© D

ana

| Dre

amst

ime.

com

Fall 2008 • NCRPA news 21

Bond Park Cary, North Carolina

298606_JDavis.indd 1 9/15/06 8:24:23 AM

362987_Haynes.indd 1 12/28/07 9:42:39 PM

Your Source For Parking and Traffi c Safety Supplies

YMCASchools

CollegesUniversities

Churches

Recreational Insurance

TeamsLeaguesCampsSpecial EventsSkateboard Parks

Municipalities

f: 803-329-8683p: 800-849-0293

ken@specialtyriskinc.com

Rock Hill, SC 29733

SRI

pecialty

isk

nc.

338513_Specialty.indd 1 1/7/08 6:48:11 PM

ADULT FITNESSPlayworld Carolinas . . . . . . . . . . . Outside Back Cover

AQUATIC EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIESEmpex Watertoys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

ARCHITECTS & ENGINEERSJ Davis Architects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Withers & Ravenel, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

ARTIFICIAL TURFMedallion Athletic Products . . . . . . Inside Back Cover

CONCESSION EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIESCromers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

ENGINEERINGMcGill Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Rivers & Associates, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

FLOORINGMedallion Athletic Products . . . . . . Inside Back Cover

FOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIESMost Dependable Fountains, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

INSECT, WEED & DISEASE CONTROLBayer Environmental Science . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTUREHadenStanziale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Front CoverJ Davis Architects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

MODULAR RESTROOMS & TRAIL BUILDINGSHunter-Knepshield Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

PARK PLANNERSSite Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

PARKING AREA SUPPLIES & MATERIALSThe Parking Place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENTGameTime/Cunningham Associates, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back CoverPlayworld Carolinas . . . . . . . . . . . Outside Back CoverWoodplay of the Carolinas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

RECREATIONAL EQUIPMENTMedallion Athletic Products . . . . . . Inside Back Cover

RECREATIONAL INSURANCESpecialty Risk, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

RECYCLED PARK/PLASTIC PRODUCTSCorrection Enterprises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

RUBBER SURFACINGRubber Wholesalers, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

SIGNAGEHaynes Sign Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

SKATE PARKSPlayworld Carolinas . . . . . . . . . . . Outside Back Cover

SOD/TURF NURSERIESCape Fear Turf Farm, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Oakland Plantation Turf Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

SPORTS LIGHTINGMusco Sports Lighting. . . . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover

advertiser index

22 NCRPA news • Fall 2008

Master PlanningSite Analysis

Feasibility StudiesRecreational PlanningParks and Greenways

Landscape Architecture

withers & ravenel

Cary, NC919.469.3340

Wilmington, NC910.256.9277

www.withersravenel.com

360618_Withers.indd 1 1/14/08 4:58:26 PM

CREATING SPACES FOR ACTIVE LIVES.

• Design Charrettes• Master Planning• Funding Assistance• Environmental Assessments• Connectivity Studies & Design• Planting Design• Outdoor Classrooms• Greenways & Trails• Elevated Boardwalks• Sport Complexes• Permitting Applications• Construction Administration

Greenville, NC: (252) 752-4135 ! Raleigh, NC: (919) 848-3347

www.riversandassociates.com

ENGINEERS PLANNERS SURVEYORS

333307_Rivers.indd 1 5/21/08 4:08:49 PM

AQUATIC EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIESEmpex Watertoys591 Albright RoadUxbridge, ON L9P 1R4Phone: (905) 649-5047Fax: (905) 649-1757E-mail: info@watertoys.comWeb: www.watertoys.netSince 1986, Empex Watertoys® has been an innovator of unique interactive Aquatic Playgrounds and Sprayparks, providing interactive water play for hotels and resorts, municipal parks and recreation facilities, housing complexes, YMCA’s, YWCA’s, campgrounds, zoos, military bases, waterparks and amusement parks.

INSECT, WEED & DISEASE CONTROL

385472_Bayer.indd 1 6/13/08 10:44:49 AM

Bayer Environmental Science824 Harbor Place DriveCharleston, SC 29412Phone: (843) 261-3196Fax: (843) 462-5485E-mail: David.Swanigan@bayercropscience.comWeb: www.backedbybayer.comBayer offers products for the management of insects, weeds and disease of turf and ornamentals including TopChoice which controls fire ants for up to 12 months with one application. 2008 TOPCHOICE PROMOTION FOR PARKS - Purchase 2 bags get 1 free on schools and PARKS excluding colleges.

SOD/TURF NURSERIES

383000_Oakland.indd 1 6/2/08 9:53:59 AM

Oakland Plantation Turf Farm120 Bermuda DriveCouncil, NC 28434Phone: (910) 669-2991Fax: (910) 669-2993E-mail: oakturf@intrstar.netWeb: www.ncturfgrass.comOakland Plantation Turf Farm, Inc. the provider of all your sports, commercial & residential turf needs continues to grow The Highest Quality Turf Underfoot! Oakland Plantation has been the choice of leading professionals for over 35 years. Our Roots Grow Deep!

advertiser.com

Bayer Environmental Science . . www.backedbybayer.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Cape Fear Turf Farm, Inc. . . . . . www.capefearturffarm.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Correction Enterprises . . . . . . . . www.doc.state.nc.us. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Cromers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.cromers.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Empex Watertoys . . . . . . . . . . . . www.watertoys.net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

GameTime/Cunningham Associates, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . www.cunninghamassoc.com . . . . Inside Back Cover

HadenStanziale . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.hadenstanziale.com . . . . . . .Inside Front Cover

Haynes Sign Company . . . . . . . . www.haynessigns.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Hunter-Knepshield Company . . www.hunterknepshield.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

J Davis Architects . . . . . . . . . . . www.jdavisarchitects.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

McGill Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . www.mcgillengineers.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Medallion Athletic Products . . . www.medallionathletics.com . . . . Inside Back Cover

Most Dependable Fountains, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . www.mostdependable.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Musco Sports Lighting . . . . . . . . www.musco.com . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Front Cover

Oakland Plantation Turf Farm . . www.ncturfgrass.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Playworld Carolinas . . . . . . . . . . www.playworldcarolinas.com . . Outside Back Cover

Rivers & Associates, Inc. . . . . . . www.riversandassociates.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Rubber Wholesalers, Inc. . . . . . . www.rubbersurfacesinc.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Site Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.sitesolutionspa.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Specialty Risk, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . www.specialtyriskinc.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

The Parking Place . . . . . . . . . . . www.theparkingplaceinc.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Withers & Ravenel, Inc. . . . . . . . www.withersravenel.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Woodplay of the Carolinas. . . . . www.woodplaync.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

classifieds

Medallion Athletic Products can offer your facility all of the following products and more. Please contact us to see how we can meet all of your recreational product and installation needs.

• Protective Netting Systems• Bleachers/Benches• Tracks• Scoreboards• Park Equipment

• Padding• Ballfi eld Equipment• Gymnasium Equipment• Artifi cial Turf Systems• And More!

124 Midnight Lane • Mooresville, NC 28117 • 1-888-660-3412www.medallionathletics.com

359148_MedallionAthletic.indd 1 2/15/08 3:44:03 PM

800.438.2780 www.cunninghamassoc.com

skate parks prefab shelters bleachers custom themes

COMPLETE PARK AND PLAYGROUND SOLUTIONS FROM THE COMPANY YOU TRUST

playground equipment surfacing products site amenities artificial field turf spraygrounds

375315_Game.indd 1 4/1/08 4:35:13 PM

Optimize little kids’ development with pint-sized learning wrapped in endless smiles and giggles.

From agility and strength-building to socialization and independence, some of our most important lifelong lessons are learned outside of the classroom.

Teenage play means high-adrenaline activities that develop agility, coordination and strength, and that offer outlets for physical creativity.

Play is beneficial at every stage of life, but it’s especially important later in adulthood when staying active is vital to living longer and healthier.

Early ChildhoodSchool-Age

ChildrenTeenage Action

SportsAdult Recreation

Activities

Patent No. Des. 515,151

www.PlayworldSystems.com

To learn more about thePlayworld Systems family of

brands, please contact:

Phone# 1.800.459.7241 Fax# 704.583.0074info@playworldcarolinas.com13504-G South Point Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28273

363001_PlayworldCarolinas.indd 1 1/14/08 5:09:01 PM