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Home My WebLink About2004 01 12 Informational 305COMMISSION AGENDA ITEM 305 01/12/04 Meeting CONSENT INFORMATIONAL X PUBLIC HEARING REGULAR MGR. //L/DEPT (2- 9 Authorization REQUEST: The Parks and Recreation Department is informing the City Commission that Torcaso Park is highlighted in the 2003 Facility Showcase of the Florida Recreation and Park Association Journal Publication. PURPOSE: The purpose of this item is to inform the City Commission about this recognition. CONSIDERATION: • In May 2003, staff submitted an application and pictures on Torcaso Park to the Florida Recreation and Parks Association for consideration in its 2003 Facility Showcase issue of FRPA Journal Publication. • The City of Winter Springs Torcaso Park was 1 of 29 selected for publication (Page 29). • The publication is distributed to over 2,000 individuals across Florida including State Legislators. FUNDING: N/A. RECOMMENDATION: N/A. 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P r vie I , _ n k. fir—,=��" _ _"t _0 60111W IIII l III� 1 � I Iii oil F T I Tr� RLS Lighting, Inc. manufactures environmental, sharp cut-off lighting )r use where illumination ,ind glare control is a must. Aels are an example in whicl brightly illuminated areas acreation) etc. must not spill lig and glare into guestrooms, dining rooms, convention rooms z MANUFAMRSS OF QUALITY LIGHTING 3W 58th Way • Hollywood, Florida 33023 • 1-800-226-1757 54) 983-4340 • Fax: (954) 983-3691 • E-Mail: rlslightCaoh: AQAUTIC EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIES Aquagenix/DeAngelo Brothers, Inc. ........50 ARCHITECTS & ENGINEERS Rood & Zwick, Inc......................54 ARCHITECTS/ENGINEERS/PLANNERS Architectural Design Consultants, Inc. ......58 BASKETBALL GOALS Porter Athletic Equipment Company ........56 BLEACHERS -MOBILE Century Industries ......................6 BRIDGES Steadfast Bridges Co . ...................6 BUILDINGS, AIR SUPPORTED & PORTABLE JE Hill Precast ........................39 COIN -OPERATED SHOWER METERS Water Conservation Services .............48 CONTRACTORS The A.D. Morgan Corporation .............54 DRINKING FOUNTAINS Murdock, Inc..........................43 EXERCISE/FITNESS EQUIPMENT Precision Fitness Equipment .............39 FOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES Most Dependable Fountains ..............49 GRASS SEED, GROUNDS & MAINTANANCE SUPPLIES Pennington Seed, Inc . ..................57 HEADGEAR ...for all outdoors. • Unisex and unisize — one size fits all. • Meticulously crafted in the U.S.A. — water-resistant, too. • Helmets can be personalized With logos or decorated as shown. • Theme Parks — Good Resale Item for Vendors! • Ideal for anyone who works or plays outdoors. Protects head and neck from harmful sun rays (i.e. lifeguards, golf course users & employees, and outdoor workers in general). CALL 1-800-873-5005 E-mail: sales@midwestheimets.com Website: www.midwesthelmets.com Phone: 516-593-9334 • Fax: 516-593.9340 or write: MIDWEST HELMETS, INC. P.O. Box 478 Lynbrook, NY 11563-0478 GROUNDS CARE EQUIPMENT John Deere ..........................52 GROUNDS MAINTENANCE EQUIPMENT Grasshopper/Live Oak Lawn Supply ........51 The Toro Company ......................3 GYMNASIUM EQUIPMENT Porter Athletic Equipment Company ........56 HELMETS Midwest Helmets, Inc...................58 IRRIGATION SYSTEMS Rainbird Corporation ...................56 LAND PLANNERS, DESIGNERS, & ENGINEERS WilsonMiller, Inc.......................56 Wood & Partners, Inc . ..................49 LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS Wood & Partners, Inc . ..................49 LASER LEVELING LaserTurf Leveling .....................50 LIGHTING SYSTEMS t Accord Industries ......................38 Recreational Lighting Systems ................inside back cover LIGHTING/SPORTS LIGHTING Recreational Lighting Systems ................inside back cover MOTOR SPORTS ATTRACTIONS Daytona USA .........................57 MOWERS Disbrow Enterprises ....................57 Hustler Turf Equipment .................51 Roberts Supply .......................53 MUSEUM & ATTRACTIONS Daytona USA .........................57 NETS, SPORTS The Net House........................36 OUTDOOR ATHLETIC EQUIPMENT Porter Athletic Equipment Company ........56 POnaplave Sport Surfacing Systems Robert Barton Coral Springs, FL 33065 954-752-2529.800-225-1141, Ext.521 www.plexipave.com bbartonplexipave @aol.com Division of California Products Corp. An Employee -Owned Company PARK AMENITIES: BENCHES/TRASH RECEPTACLES/SIGNS Recreational Lighting Systems ................inside back cover PARKS & PUBLIC SPACE PLANNING Glatting Jackson ......................54 Wood & Partners, Inc . ..................49 PICNIC TABLES Gerber Manufacturing, Ltd . ..............49 PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT Contract Connection, Inc. ...outside back cover Playstructure Services ..................50 POOL CONSTRUCTION & RENOVATION Aquamarine Swimming Pool Co., SPD ............inside front cover RECREATIONAL SAFETY/SIGNAGE Recreational Lighting Systems ................inside back cover RECYCLED PARK/PLASTIC PRODUCTS Allen Ventures, Inc . ....................49 RESTORATION & MAINTENANCE OF NATIVE ECOSYSTEMS Native Technologies, Inc.................54 RETAINING WALLS Keystone Group .......................42 RV SANITARY DUMP STATION SYSTEMS The Tower Company ....................6 SCOREBOARDS Porter Athletic Equipment Company ........56 SHADE STRUCTURES Shade Systems .......................48 SOIL STABILIZATION/EROSION CONTROL R.H. Moore & Associates ................36 SPORTS EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIES Anaconda Sports, Inc . ..................36 SPORTS SURFACES California Products Corp.................58 SPRIGGING EQUIPMENT Sprigger's Choice Mfg...................50 TENNIS EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES Advantage Tennis Supply ................36 UTILITY VEHICLES Florida Coast Equipment, Inc..............53 Palmetto Motor Sports ..................53 Polaris Powersports of the Nature Coast ....52 WATER FOUNTAINS Haws Corporation .....................43 Architectural Design Consultants, Inc. 245 Munroe Street, P.O. Box 580 Lake Delton, WI 53940 Ph.: (608) 254-6181 Fax: (608) 254-2139 Architectural Design Consultants, Inc. (ADCI), consists of a team of qualified design professionals providing architectural and engineering services. Our areas of specialization include HotelfReson design with elaborate indoor aquatic facilities, church, multi -housing/ condominiums and retail projects. ADCI is committed to personalized one-on-one relationships with our clients. In addition to featured architecture of exterior and interior spaces we provide extensive evaluation of our clients' needs. ADCI prepares analysis for long- range planning, building programming and detailed cost estimating. We have achieved an outstanding reputation for producing high. quality projects that meet or exceed owner expectations. With offices in Lake Delton as indicated above and Verona at 161 Horizon Drive, Suite 102, Verona, WI 53593: Phone (608) 848-2324; Fax (608) 848- 5122, ADCI is sure to provide client satisfaction. Florida State Utility Vehicle Contract #070-840-03-1 I 1 - jjj trr v And get more done. When you try Toro, you'll quickly see that our mowers and utility vehicles are powerful, agile performers. Ask about our productive new products including: • Heavy duty Workman® utility vehicle that converts to a 200 gallon sprayer in less than 30 minutes. To be immediately connected to your local distributor call 1-800-803-8676 Ext. 190 Florida Panhandle Jerry Pate Turf & Irrigation Florida West Coast Wesco Turf Inc. Florida Central/NE Wesco Turf Supply Inc. Florida Southeast Hector Turf Florida State Lawn Equipment Contract #515-630-03-01 D Prot tp- Cne • 11-ft Groundsmaster® rotaries with more power, greater maneuverability and superior cutting. • Groundsmaster® mowers with Contour - Plus decks that leave the perfect stripe in 6, 9 and 12-foot cutting widths. frpa journal • 58 9 winter 2001 FRPA EXECUTIVE OFFICE Eleanor Warmack, CAE, CPRP, Executive Director Lori Womack, CPRP, Director of Professional Development Sara Jones, Director of Member Resources 411 Office Plaza Drive Tallahassee, FL 32301-2756 850 878 3221 Fax: 850 942-0712 TDD 850 878-6177 Website: www.frpa.org 2003-2004 Board of Directors President Karen Palus, CPRP President -Elect Elaine Smlth, CPRP Past President Steve Miller, CPRP Vice President of Advocacy Greg Scott, CPRP Vice President of Finance Terri Owen, CPRP Vice President of Member Resources Bruce Fassett, CPRP Vice President of Professional Development Terri Messler, CPRP District Directors District One - Kim Knox, CPRP District Two - Ire Bethea, CPRP District Three - Bill Swartz, CPRP District Four - Elaine Smith, CPRP District Five - Amy Blackman, CPRP District Six - David Lykins, CPRP District Seven - Robert Sherman, CPRP District Eight - Donna Trafford, CPRP Interest Section Chairs Administrators - Phil Thornburg - CPRP Aquatics - Mark Hartman, CPRP Arts and Events - Mary Margaret Gruszka, CPRP Athletics - Fred Couceyro, CPRP Community Centers - Colleen Gierut, CPRP Ethnic Minority - James Whittaker, APRP Therapeutic Recreation - Kristy Ireland, CTRS Wellness - Leah Rockwell, CPRP Citizen - Pat Kennedy, CPRP Parliamentarian John Holland Ex-Officio Mike Bullock The Florida Recreation and Park Association journal is published for the Florida Recreation and Park Association 411 Office Plaza Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32301-2756 phone: 850 878-3221, fax: 850 942-0712 by Naylor Publications, Inc. 5931 Northwest 1 st Place Gainesville, FL 32607 phone: 352 332-1252, 800 369-6220 fax: 352 331-3525 www.naylar.com 0 winter 2004 0 11610seille d lop P'ENNINGTiD'N The Professional Turfgrass Specialists r QUALITY YOU CAN TRUST Publisher: SA Message from the Steve Stramm President of FRPA Editor: Cathy Jones T� 7� 1P [lI N C E S S-77 7 A Messa e from the g Project Manager: Tom Schell Y :a.�d Executive Director Of FRPA Advertising Sales: ®�f1 Jim Dielschneider, Skip Flynn, Mary Johnston, George Lawson, "••' L Bill Mulligan, Beth Sheahan, 8 2004 FRPA Facility Showcase Paul Walley Research: Karen Clark FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE 3 i FRPA News Layout and Design: CONTACT:VALERIEJOHNSON AT o Kayti Taylor (800) 869-1803 41 Palm Beach County: A Model Advertising Art: Tim Scarth for Recreation Departments Throughout Florida Ill Executive Office Eleanor Warmack, CAE, CPRP, Executive Director i 411 Office Plaza Drive YOUR ONE 44 Florida State Parks Section Tallahassee, FL 32301-2756 850 878-3221 ! L A 5 T E C' SOURCE FOR: "The Fax: 850 942-0712 Articulator" TDD 850 878-6177 • Parks and Sports DAKOTA Citizen Profile: Jim Appelt Field Mowers* 55 r. Biff •Infield Rakes hea SQ Index of Advertisers • Sports Field Line Markers v • Top Dressers -. _ • Fertilizers Spreaders See our products at: • Utility Trucks Lastec.com • Spray Equipment Dakotapeat.com Broyhill.com • Turf Vacuums TruTurtcom O 2003 Naylor Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. The contents o/ this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent o/ the publisher. PUBLISHED DECEMBER 2003/FRP-00403/8709 Disbrow - Enterprises TURF DISTRIBUTION DIVISION Contact David Disbrow at 954-345-8577 for a free demonstration Irpa journal • 4 • winter 2004 [[-pit journal 0 57 • irinl-er 20114 well. "The hardest thing I had to do —but at the same time one of the best things I've done for the commu- nity —was to vote with the Long Center Board to turn the building over to the city," he says. "As a volunteer, it was hard for me to vote to affect people's lives; some of the upper management people are now look- ing for jobs because of our decision. But at the same time, because we are able to consolidate financial resources, it's going to cost $250,000 less to run the center. That's $250,000 more that will be available for other programs. "That's the most rewarding experience, seeing kids get opportunities that they wouldn't otherwise have had. It's a great example of taking limited public resources and maximizing the return on the public investment." Dunbar says Appelt himself has made a big impact on the county's recreation programs. "In every com- munity there are certain individuals who you need to connect to. Jim Appelt is one of those people. He's someone in the youth sports arena that you can bounce ideas off of. You can talk to him about strate- gy, budget, ideas, and he's willing to lend his exper- tise. He's one of those guys who steps forward and makes things work. "He has a real commitment to kids and a real com- mitment to the community." CJ7 Install Rain Bird® The new Rain Bird 7005 and 8005 vandal resistant rotors are designed to ensure high reliability and can handle the rugged demands of commercial sites. *Call 1-800-RainBird to receive a coupon valid for 4 free Rain Bird 7005 rotors so that you can Install Confidence in your area. RA1W*B1R0,6 Always learning Appelt is still energized by the volunteer tasks he has taken on. "The good thing about volunteering in recreation is that recreation is always part of your life in some shape or form," he says. "And you're always learning no matter what you're trying to do. It does- n't matter whether you're a player or a coach or a league administrator —you're learning every day." He finds it frustrating when people complain about recreation programs but don't follow through. "I hear somebody saying, 'Why isn't this happening?' or 'Why isn't that happening?' People have some good ideas, so they should talk to the person in charge and make their suggestions. If you see a problem, and know how to fix it, then get involved. "There's only a limited amount of resources," he adds. "Sometimes your piece of the pie isn't as big as you'd like it. If you get involved, you may be able to make it bigger. If you don't get involved, then just look in the mirror when you're looking for someone to blame." Recreation directors should be prepared to take full advantage of the skills that volunteers bring, Appelt continues. "Listen to your volunteers, seek their advice, and find out what their needs are. We should encourage directors to ask citizens, 'What can you do to help us help you?"' • PDRtek' PORTER ATHLETIC EQUIPMENT COMPANY PO Box 8926 Lakeland, FL 33806 Phone: 863 701-0846 Fax: 863 701-0859 www.porter-oth.com World Leader In Quality Sports Equipment Basketball Backstops • Gymnasium Dividers • Volleyball Equipment Outdoor Products • Physical Education Equipment Ppesident's -Message By Karen Pallus, CPRP OW ... What an exciting time for our Association... We had an incredible 2003 Conference in a beautiful new resort with a tremendous package of tours, exhibitors, educational ses- sions and networking socials. Thanks -again to the Conference Committee and our Executive Office Staff. They did an outstanding job! We have complet- ed our special election and restructuring ballot. Con- gratulations to Elaine Smith with Pasco County who is our new President Elect; and congratulations to you, our membership, for voting a resounding YES to pro- ceed with the restructuring! My Travels... Since conference, I have had the plea- sure to attend the Florida Park Service Park Managers meeting held in Jacksonville. I shared with them the opportunities FRPA provides for continuing education and membership benefits. We spoke in regards to partnering more with FPS, so that we can all benefit from each other's knowledge and skills. I look forward to working more closely with Mike Bullock, their director, and his staff as we continue to strengthen our relationship through partnerships. Additionally, I stayed to witness the awards ceremony that they have for their staff. I was so impressed by the program and the way this group interacted with one another. They treat each other like family, and you can just tell this is a special group of park professionals. From Jacksonville I went to the National Alliance for Youth Sports International Congress in Atlanta. This was such a different conference than anything I have ever attended. It was so interesting to speak and have discussions with individuals from all over the world about youth sports, programs and its issues. My spe- cial thanks to Lisa Licata and Fred Engh for the invita- tion and the opportunity to participate. We have a strong partnership with NAYS, and Florida is truly their model for other organizations. Our Restructuring... With the passing of the restruc- turing, the board will begin to formalize our transi- tional efforts. We have put together transitional teams for each of the four regions and the five sections. Those transitional teams will work with each area to define the roles and responsibilities and set up our new operations. I am so pleased to be working with a board of directors that is committed to the success of this association and providing the highest level of service to our members. You should be very proud of this group they represent our profession and this asso- ciation well. We will have a busy year as we move for- ward with "Focused on the Future: A Master Plan for Success." Please stay tuned to the FRPA Web site for updates and reports on our progress. Showcase... Enjoy this issue of the Journal as we cel- ebrate your accomplishments around the state! Our facility showcase edition is always one of my favorites. It's a great opportunity to show off what we do so well! I think you'll be impressed by the facilities that were included. Congratulations to those agencies that were selected! It's not too early to start your applica- tion for next year's edition. In closing, I want to say thank you to each of you for all of the well wishes as I embarked on this presi- dential journey a year in advance. You have been so supportive, and your willingness to become involved and assist has been overwhelming. In the words of Will Rogers... If you want to be successful, it's just this simple: Know what you are doing, love what you're doing, and believe in what you're doing. Our organiza- tion could not be successful without the many profes- sionals that volunteer their time, skills, knowledge and energy to the betterment of the association and our profession. Thank you for believing in FRPA! May this holiday season bring you joy, happiness and peace to you and your family! Please continue to keep our troops in your thoughts, as they will be away from their families this holiday season. Join me in wishing them a safe and speedy return. Happy Holidays! irpa journal a 56 9 winter 2004 irpa journal 0 .5 • winter 2004 ... 77 1-800-945-1532 1 (920) 682-6091 Fax 1 (920) 682-6094 110WER tower @ LSOL.NET C O M P A N Y ROMORT WATER TOWER Since 1961 the Romort Water Tower has been serving the campground industry. It provides running water for flushing waste from holding tanks using only 2.5 gallons of water. It is designed to prevent backsiphonage to your water supply thus stopping contamination and the spread of disease. The Romort Water Tower meets ANSI and ASSE guidelines, and supports EPA and Environmental Health Standards. SANITARY HATCH COVER The Sanitary Hatch Cover is used over the entrance of the holding tank. Its superior design is made out of Ductile Iron, with a Bronze Cap and a treadle handle. It is foot operated to allow the camper freedom to use his/her hands o in guiding the hose into the tank. The Sanitary Hatch Cover can be closed imel with your own lock preventing dumping without your authorization. Tower Company is proud to offer products that are compatible with the environment and do not promote unnecessary waste of natural resources. We would like the opportunity to service your campground/park. PLEASE CALL US AT 1 - 8 0 0 - 9 4 5 - 15 3 2. Tower Company NAiioNAL P.O. BOX 1958 N.RV Per,, al 11 C, pgo"f Manitowoc, WI 54221-1958 MA Su plier emt— ounas Supplier Member Visit Our Website: www.towercompany.com It) �VG "LEADING THE INDUSTRY INTO THE 21ST CENTURY" PREMANUFACTURED GOLF CART • PEDESTRIAN • BICYCLE • 2-LANE VEHICULAR BRIDGES AND OVERPASSES, SINGLE SPANS TO 250' IN MOST OF OUR STYLES 1-800-749-7515 VEHICULAR SALES # 866-294-9767 STEADFAST BRIDGES 256-845-0154 9 Fax 256-845-9750 www.steadfastbridge.com E-mail: sales@steadfastbridge.com by Mary Lou Jay iving more kids the opportunity to partici- pate in sports has always been important to James D. "Jim" Appelt. A New York native, he moved to Clearwater in 1977 as a young teen and started playing baseball, football and soccer. Just a few years later, as an older teen, he started coaching youth soccer teams while attending St. Petersburg Junior College. After several busy years spent earning undergradu- ate degree and master's degrees from Stetson Univer- sity, Appelt became a CPA. He now has his own firm, Appelt Nall & Associates. He was also busy starting a family; he and his wife Lori have three children, Jessi- ca, age 15, Jimmy, age 11, and Jamie, age 8. But through these years his interest in recreation never waned. So when Clearwater's Long Center opened in the early 1990s, it was almost like love at sight. This pub- lic, multi -use recreational facility was built primarily with private dollars. "It was a new facility at the time, and I was smitten with it. It was unique, the first non - school gym and the only indoor Olympic size swim- ming pool in the area. I thought it was a great place, a jewel in the community, and I wanted to be part of that." The Long Center was operated at that time as a pri- vate foundation with a Board of Directors, and Appelt served on that board for many years. It was through the Long Center that Appelt became involved with the Clearwater Parks and Recre- ation Department and its staff. He started volunteer- ing with various recreation programs in the depart- ment (including stints coaching each of his children's soccer teams). He hasn't stopped since. "All of the volunteer activities that I'm involved in right now are recreation oriented," he explains. "I enjoy it; I like seeing kids have opportunities that they wouldn't otherwise have. It's fun and it's rewarding." In recent months, Appelt has also served on a special Pinellas County Task Force charged with looking at recreation and financing. Expanding programs Although Appelt has made many contributions to the Clearwater recreation program, one of the areas in which he's had the biggest impact is basketball. "He's one of the founders of Clearwater Competitive Youth Basketball League, which serves about 500 chil- dren, age 9 to 15," says Kevin Dunbar, director of Clearwater's Park and Recreation Department. The league accepts teams from a five county area, going as far south as Naples through Pasco County. "A few years ago, there was only two AAU organi- zations in the area, so getting on a team or even find- ing out about it was extremely difficult," Appelt says. "Now there are five AAU organizations. This league gives the kids who have been participating in rec pro- grams a chance to find out about other AAU pro- grams. They can expand their skills and get an opportunity to play real competitive baseball. "It wouldn't have happened without the city orga- nizing it and getting all the groups together. Kevin has done a very good job of pushing the envelope, of creating opportunities for kids. Now all the facilities that the city has built are getting used. As a taxpayer, I think that's great." Making difficult decisions Although most of his volunteer efforts have been rewarding, Appelt says there have been some difficult decisions that he has had to face along the way as frpa journal 9 6 * ihinter 2004 frpa journal 9 55 9 ►hinter 2001 _� www.,,glattinv.com r— �. -- ExecutiveDirector's Messege By Eleanor Warmack, CAE, CPRP t is difficult to believe that another conference is behind us and a transitional year full of challenges lies ahead. First, let me say a huge thank you to the 2003 Con- ference Committee. Chair Jim Sheets, and his entire commit- tee and the many individuals that helped the committee members, worked so hard to make this year's event suc- cessful in every aspect. The evaluations for the conference were great, and many solid sugges- tions were made for next year's event when we return to the beautiful Westin Innisbrook. The election of a new president-elect has resulted in another qualified candidate coming forward to lead FRPA into the future. Elaine Smith will begin immediately working with Presi- dent Karen Palus and the board to move forward the recently approved FRPA "Focused on the Future" transitional plan. The board of directors worked diligently through the May Board Retreat in order to layout the ground work for the transition, which will assist us in moving ahead. Many of you will be involved in this tran- sition plan, and let me thank you in advance for your involvement in the solution. This issue of the FRPA Journal features our annual Facility Showcase, and I encourage you to share this issue with your elected leadership. It truly demonstrates the quality investment of tax dollars being made in their communities. We are also continuing with our feature of two regions in the Florida Park Service. The next issue of the Journal will feature two more regions, and one more following that. This is a partnership we need to contin- ue to foster as we move for- ward into our future. Your continued support and involvement as we move for- ward with the restructuring will be critical, and I know you will step up to the challenge. The year of transition will con- clude prior to the 2004 Conference, where we will install a new board of directors with a new organizational structure. Committee members and interest section chairs will be an integral part of forming the goals for the coming years, and we will soon have a seamless organization tied together by a commonly understood mis- sion. We will soon be jumping into another legisla- tive session, promising to be as much the chal- lenge as previous years. We will be looking out for any possible movement of the FRDAP pro- gram out of the Department of Environmental Protection, as well as the many other issues that will be surfacing in another tight budget year. Be sure to read the 2004 Platform that was mailed to you, and acquaint yourself with all of the issues we will be monitoring. As always, the Executive Office stands ready to assist you and we will be working closely with the board to assure a smooth transition through- out the year. Thank you all for your continued involvement and for your contributions to FRPA. • frpa journal • 7 9 winter 2004 IAIIIJ,41 rij I Itt. ij,1:1 J J1 4 �vi n 14 jurisdiction; Cape Coral x_ `4, ti ti iu `transfow w 75 T f�6 park/qtq.o' e _/G b"k"ng and ltlq�_ Opttroct�v -P dog ,walking_. C .4, All %g C V E ga rdens ensot'RotorVF Pa'rks:'-& Recreation;,,,:� I lip" Project N6me:.,-,. ,:,,Rotary. -a hvill & nter 'Cost:- $450 000 ize-4.225'esq. ft. , _Architect 'Err . Engmeenng Firm 71 Aval6h Erigineering Cape;Cora;,F1' Native fish are - ."Contrad r FifihCompass Construction, 0 feo i u r,ed inthese 'Coral, Fla inks iri,the environmental Director .,,-SpZvePohlman center. The'! center,,, multitude"offers a t. e-, citizens g.,,, ape, Park"�es r Of p�6grqTsImI plants -and 9 dgd 't nity-to observe and •ofi _qp Coral a un.que. pppor,, u ' hatu IJ d 'a.b_o.ut, natdre�i- isitors cawenjo Craft'y, jbe,abundant .wie and_man-nac6lakes n` I close 60�' osahatc. ee-1 River.- rn the;Cal6' 11 otlhe;.park include the 'Envi' `r6nmenL _--tal 'Center" , with'Aative. fish,aqqa I r i'u . ms,: an' -:"b'' obs7ervaticin: tower, Ravediik,e: Oath,`nature and -a dog park (Wagging Tails)..: An6th- e ghlight-is- p ant. identitication r-6 the, native garden, whi 6 ti .-was 7"recen _,,-,p1acejn_q.,,stateWi e,competi ion.sponsore -.'by, the Florida'.'Native Plaht,Sbciety. The park-, d :Certifiec1-rF1or'8a:..Ya and is -1?:', UL a 0 certtlftle&as -5'Backyard -' i i e Ha itat. c 6 tff,rTG Hijfy.-vpa rth e rs n i ps'made Ikdta ! I' - yb*ss--ib—le. uzottonsgon�ted;tme,�ngTo toCenter, , ' - I lids III ��f6rbrd,�atchi,picnickig,hikin 110�O�Y!,�I5oi-IaI,-p16nnedan n Asigne ,donated hundreds; of hours of sweat equity on projects .'such ,as gZ,-.the grant, application, eIocatiiopof b. sjrVa .B '-t!cn;tower, amen.tHes.fora -t h dog_ park h .Clubs _e Rbta(y' ave rnadeAhtls park ongoing 'effort, and ,'Olan,to.,add, :.over time 66ardwilks, 0 ayground . -,e q u i p rii e nacid p i'c-,'. A micsh*eltersThe Cape; Coral 'Community.- II .; Ili :Fbundation,-Native -;Plant :;SOCiE!ty,, University , j Ktension-Ser.v.ic-e.and ;the - Park`§-,'anU,,-Nei6hL�qrho_ d -P have,., .,q s Pro uca - ---------- 'alsO-donat(�d-.�erVic6s�a-hcisponsored ed pir.bgrams -atthe,^,EnVirOnmenta enter., i*6�r'both -'adults and children l-iin the ,corni:Tiuni_-s II y rk'6wii8hinent6l Center native Jrpujouml e 8 winfer 21104 1I11!ji I --I jai muw < ny —v, uiynai injectlon,12 gal tank, 60" or 72" cut, 7-Iron'" deck 1565 Mower 36 hp, 14.5-gal tank, 60" 4X2 Gator 10 hp OHV, 2WD, hauls or or 72" cut, quick -ratio rear power tows 900lbs., spark -arrest muffler DELIGHT THE EMPLOYEES ON YOUR LIST WITH SOMETHING FROM JOHN DEERE . Call your local John Deere Dealership today to setup a free demonstration --- or --- Contact John Deere Governmental sales at 1-800-358-5010 for Purchasing Information v 4710 Tractor 6.3 hp diesel, eHydro' trans with eMatch'" operating system il� ii IIII II �IillII Ij I� III cccCcc i� � G i h .I h Jurisdiction: } Miami -Dade County Project: Tropical hark Equestrian Center Show Ring & 5 Restroom Retrofit Cost: $2.41 million Size: 55,000 sq. ft. Architect Firm: Alleguez & Associates, Miami; Fla. Engineering -Firm: Maurice Gray St Tropical Park Equestrian Center arena is covered by a 200 ft. by 275 ft. standing steel roof with state -of -the art lighting. Associates; T- Miami, Fla. Contractor Firm: Pino Fonticiella; At Miami, Fla. _ Director.- Vivian Donnell Rodriguez`` t Originally.a racetrack, Tropical Park Eques-. trian Center became a 'county facility in the. 1970s. The center, which is the only eques- : �— - ,trian facility in South Florida, needed _ upgrading and expansion to attract larger, - horse shows. Today the facility is'a .55-acre .equestrian, � �..�ir� -1 center that hosts more than 35 shows a year. It features three clay show rings —two for performance and one for warm -ups —and two grass courses. The arena is covered .by a 200 ft.' b 275 ft. standin steel' roof with y g The 55-acre equestrian center hosts more than 35 shows a year. Permanent seating can accommodate 1,000 people, and there is room for temporary. state-of-the-art lighting. ,The permanent seating for,7,500 people. seating area can accommodate 1,000 peo- ple;portable bleachers are available that will handle another 7,500. The center is used for - horse shows and other special events such as dog -shows, concerts and festivals. Horses stay = in the "'267- stalls with" adjacent recreational vehicle hookups:,(Additional portable stalls and tents are,also-available for larger shows.)a The promenade adjacent. to the ring has space for vendors, food stands, dining antl;'- . r9y • entertainment. Visitors can also _enjoy the r, biking, fishing,. tennis, and picnicking fac li- - = -ties located on;the,grounds-of. Tropical Park- ; itself. ' Funding for the Equestrian Center renova- ,,. tions'came- primarily from .the- Safe`Neigh- .. boyhood Parks" fund, grants, and the ,Capital Visdo"rs'to the.Tropical Park.Equestrina Center can also enjoy the"biking, fishing, Outlay' Reserve Fund., tennis and picnicking facilities located.on the grounds of Tropical Park itself: - Irpa journal • 9 • winter 2004 Project Ni MetroZ60--` AVially Cost: $8.76 million Size- 3'�!. acres 5 Architeci.firin: Poriicol `6roup; Seatt.,IeWash .'- Engineering Firm.- Spillis Candelai, - DMJM1 Miami, Fla. .Contractor Firm :..' PCL Construction; -0rlandoJla.`. Director.. V,ivianDonnell Kod riguez Visi 0 d r yed idrs':t6 th,,A�ef�6zo Wings- f Asia through cuftu�Gl aviar gateways.The As'ia theme is followed throughout -the 3'717aere 661iiy. Mletrcizbo'�.,6'iginal, y-.was esto in 1992 by Hurricane. Andrew. Its ;replace 'me-nt=th'eAmerican "Bankers _Family' f. gs, of Asia,- is:t, e,- largest outdoor The Win h * ....aviary in the'Westem.1He misphere The new aviary -features -exotic; ",rare and ..�l x encangere&MAsian b, i�ds' representing 70 0 splecies..'.1f. will 'u.1t.imat6ly- be home to. than:. d I I . 300 bir s, and will servefnot,on y as aT 0ce Where the public "can yi6v these.birds but', also � sc�:As.a.�cientific research center for,breed-i h1i andconservation.: Il s EEL., Visitors enter the, aviary through the.- ';Asian ,,'cu tural' laf6v en. move.into' This in 1des--,exhibit; thepre-flight,area. , c u t i be, linked.,hat."sh o 0 dinosaurs. 'may with the; s- f t6da e large.plaza in, _, t6 �i this has -shaded air-conditioned., U g.mn ows a 0 i n the-Jok hrs.are.a,' spaces -vi t) activities forvisitors of all":" food f ages, N nice visitors ente( the free- flight aviary,, r s' they see bifds. in all their natural settings: picturesquewaterfalls,, _�, and, an elevated walkway with a Uridge-16 an-Asii in:temple-ruin overgrown -wit i vegetation -ivieanw "bird i e,, tiny and large -birds ve hl swoop overhead,ber&-on branches, swim � -and-stroll by' 'visitors. the lake 1 'vis'itior's. Thei. aviary-vvaS funded through' -a, variety, f .:o -sources; including I idinj Safe Neighborhood; rks;-theZ000giita -So--Ciety,`i;l1,g:Federal: - Emergency anagement-Ageu ;y-, the,: "..cou,hty'an vano sgraqts., 76 th hove This female �6s re resents one o. thi 6t will everit6i 1,7 �i, a6le home in the'ai safe ani ort ry lipa jourflai 0, 10 0 - winter ,12,0011 H 0 0: 1 11 i I_�:.,ai i j1� l+I SET THE GROUND RULES, MAINTAIN GROUNDS COMFORTABLY WITH THE SAFEST, MOST EFFICIENT TRUE ZERO TURN MOWER IN THE INDUSTRY Available On FLORIDA STATE CONTRACT from Live Oak Lawn Supply, Inc. (941)378-0391 Rie equipment problems keeping you up at night? Your mowers need to be earning their keep, not draining your profits with costly repairs and doily maintenance. The Hustler Z family is your solution. They come with lifetime warranties on the tractor frame, leading edge of the deck, and even the hoses and fittings are guaranteed never to leek. 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So do your business a favor, choose Hustler turf equipment and sleep well For more information or to find AID /4 41 a dealer near you call 1 -888-877-19 11 or visit us at HUSTLER' Turf Equipment 011 9' Hit WORKFORCE j lay �,y Ior I Aquatic Environmental Management For Your Golf Course & Community Algae and Aquatic Weed Control Wetland Planting, Restoration and Maintenance Exotic and Nuisance Vegetation Control Fountain and Lake Aeration Design, Installation and Service Mechanical and Manual Vegetation Removal Fish Stocking — Biological Control and Game Fish Aquagenix A division of DeAngelo Brothers, Inc. 1-800-832-LAKE (5253) Branch Locations Throughout Florida 19 �I II I'�u II I �� I I II Gr I I 11,0I�IlIJ! 11 'I ill � I ii ' it Il�ilji� Now you can plant your own sports fields with the SPRIGMASTER II • Fits your 15 to 40 HP Tractor • Save Money vs. Total Re -Sodding • Faster Grow -in than Re -Sprigging i • Create & Plant Sprigs from Sod Slabs or Rolls SPRIGGER'S CHOICE, INC, manufacturer ph/fax 229.995.4116 mob. 229.886.3347 See our Full Line at: www.spriggerschoice.com I I j � I III I. I I I ll III I„ I P- Jurisdiction: Miami -Dade County Project: Deering Estate Mangrove Boardwalk Cost: $1.12 million` Size: 1,320 ft. long by 8 ft. wide Architect dt Engineering Firm: CRA Clarke Inc., _ _ Miami-TIa. Contractor Firm: Native Technologies, Inc., Ft: Lauderdale, Fla. Director. Vivian Donnell Rodriguez This half -mile -long wooden boardwalk, which brushes the shore of Biscayne Bay, is the The half -mile -long Mangrove Boardwalk is only existing boardwalk through a mangrove the only existing forest in Miami Dade County. It allows visitors -boardwalk throUgh'a to enjoy the beauty of this unique ecosystem mangrove forest in Miami- Dade County.' and watch wildlife from several observation = points. The .Mangrove Boardwalk follows a historic •; coastal trail that predates the former estate owner and pioneer Charles. Deering. The origi- nal trail and bordering rocks are preserved - beneath and alongside the new boardwalk. .To -- respect -the area's sensitive natural and historic resources, the contractor incorporated 24 Observation areas at several points along the MongroveBoardwalk give visitors an angles in the walkway to avoid damaging indi- opportunity to -observe wildlife -in its natural vidual trees and historic artifacts. habitat. The boardwalk is part of the Deer- ing Estate at Cutler, an environmental, archaeological, historical and architec- 41 aural preserve. ,The. 400-acre. property , encompasses '150 acres of globally ; endangered pine rocklands—among r % ; .the largest of these ecosystems in'the continental United States 'as well as 115, acres of coastal tropical hardwood hammocks. The Historical Preservation Society, .- t the Department of Environmental' Resources Management, Florida Water - Management and the Park. and Recre-.- ation- staff worked together- to make: the ''Mang -rove' -Boardwalk possible: Funding, came_ from Safe 'Neighbor- hood Parks, grants,: and the Capital . Outlay Reserve Fund. `- 'The contractor incorporated 24 angles I. in the wolkwayt0 avoid damaging individual trees - an'd historic artifacts. Irpa journal • 11 • winter 2001 bi Project Name " ESCd111 d _ :.._ ..,.. County lz_ _ Equestrian , •._ >> Center Cost: s6.3 million Size: 60: acres . Architect. Firm: _ Herbert'Halback lnc., Orlando,,Fla. Engineering Firm: STOA Carlos, Pensacola, Fla. Contractor Firm.. Gulf "Atlantic, r t Constru c ors, . The multi purpose mdo&"arena dt "Escomba County's Equestrian Center can seat _ Pensacola, "Fla "up to 4;000 people ,:, Director: Kevin Briski ;A steering committee composed of rep=l, resentatives from area equestrian groups.. helped. plan, and design, Escambia. County.,s "4 Equestrian Center, a replacement. for the _ county's`older.horse show facilityI IF to acco te ""-,Pax-�a,: the SIatI71e time ntheaEquesxpaeneCenter boasts a 375;ft. z 225'ft. cle' _ an span, multi- s "��Y --- J b r purpose Covered arena with a seating: "�, ,� ti t y`. -capacity of 4;000. It includes many-ameni- = R � � 4a ties two --covered stables with 200"perma-, nent stalls and' room for an additional 600 temporary stalls; washcracks, three outdoor P show ririgs (one:200 ft: by 300 ft an:d two Three.outdoor arenas allow multiple events -to be held of the same time. t . 150 ft,, by 250 ft ), 39 RV sites wrth_:water,`- ' >- : sewer ;a:nd electrlcal� hookups, restroom/: shower facilities, and>vendo;r areas with' electrical hookups adjacent to both the . in and outdoor arenas 'The site also - offers ' a "show "s:ecretary :office wl,th' voice/data communication- and public;• tadd�ess system, professional, quality live OR v stock pens and':rodeoch , utes;--and-a " ticket.` sales pavilion A drive -through horse trailer paroading/unloading area mak k/les it easy- -OR�u", for owners to.stable their horses quickly Funded through a Local option sales tax' nuo and ,money from the' pepartment of Agn culture,: the Equestrian Center now_hosts . horse .sflows or' some Other :activity almost^ RN NOT 'everyweekend. Long-range;'plans -include:; ahe development of tfe surrounding' area The.coanty-hopes io'�&entuolly'develop theaurrouriding area'.into a pork with. , ' _as'a COmriluni - ark -. x. playgrounds dthletic fields and --walking an`d nding:trails ty p - A. a irpa journal • 12 . • winter 2004 i I i k0l I Ili _ ilih a�io�sasi GGer1:0er tWJ Manufacturing, Ltd. Gerber Manufacturing is celebrating over 30 years as a provider of quality tables, benches and grills to the recreation industry, and commercial -strength tables and benches suitable for a backyard or heavily used campground and RV park. Call us to see who set the industry standard. BUILT TO LAST! PLANT AND OFFICE: 2917 Latham Drive, Madison, WI 53713 800-393-9923.608-271-e-"777 ■ Fax: 608-271-1920 Visit us at: www.olerbertables.com ■ Park Master Plans ■ Needs Assessments Wood+Partners Inc. ■ Public Workshops �n°'�08 a`d1R0dS la.b PWmers ■ Park Design Call today for more information or visit our web page i jurisdiction: r� IOA Brevard County ►� • +.'" The Finest �ofra e ♦ yer I. a ,R Sun Prot6lation Products Year q • r`° Project: South- Mainlandq , CommunityAI. v Center & Gym ..��.� - -�--• Cost: Community Center: $1.283 million Gym: $1.473 million Size: Community Center: _4,810sq. ft0.7 ,r ... Gym: 0, sq. ft. Architect Firms: Community Center: Rood & Zwicki Brevard County C', g - -- .:. _ Gym:Thadeus Cohen, - 'a Brevard County The'South Brevard Community Center-Mico hosts a variety-of'recreational o I programs, special events, community gatherings, 'and senior, adult and Engineering Firm: PBS , Brevard Count 9 9 � . Y -youth programs _ °s�P Contractor Firms: Community Center:' o - ; ;iGie coolest sa °utiovt swl er the"stiivi ' j rga Brevard-County AD -Morgan, n,'Brevard:Coun �. ceoUowsta4z ofL�' vym:W&t Cvix,uttiOn, re-instoUa��°n 4350 N.W. 19th Avenue - Unit G, Pompano Beach, FL 33064 I i BrevardCOunty ' Toll-free:1-800-609-6066 • FAX: 954/971-1208 • w�A-A�shadesystemsmc.com Director: Charles S. Nelson Water Conservation Services r D�row,n�f�nxg e�n fir s� Water, Electric, Maintenance? Come up for a breath! Purchase a safe reliable Metered Shower System. Save up to 70% WCS systems are the fastest way to reduce water and energy cost. Metered Systems pay for themselves in a matter of months. C'o�,,,ntact'WCS- and begin saving f�orrr b� oth�,�youf Pcark� and theme �En ironmenfi!I www.watercon.com info@watercon.com f The South Mainland Community Center-Micco was built to meet the needs of 'low -to -mode rate ' income residents -of the Micco and Little. Holly-- wood communities. The facility is host. to a -variety I�of. recreational programs,special _ events; comma-.: ��- nity gatherings, as well as -programs for seniors, adults and youths: ;=6 '-= ,oNi The gymnasium offers a "variety of activities: staffed athletic programs, arts and crafts, ,game , room and partnering with -the local Police Athletic Built in part as'a hurricane refuge center, -the gymnasium can- andle up -to_ 650 refugees. During fair weather, it hosts a variety of org6nized athletic, League to provide activities for youth at riskAt also activities and craft programs..' . serves as a hurricane :evacuation shelter for the southem =portion of Brevard County, with .room -for ' up to 650 evacuees. The Community Center is'the daily luncheon site for the senior nutrition program. - Both sites provide meeting spaces for large and small community -gatherings, weddings, reunions; holiday events, flea markets and health°fairs::` Outdoors, the facility features;a -latge covered playground .with a -small-water feature,, to keep visi-:.. tors "coolduring hot summer days. - =. ,Citizen--- input was an: important part of the , design process for the facility. Funding was provid- , ed by the "Community Development Block Grant," Board of County Commissioners and the 'Federal' Emergency Management' Agency. A borfd referee dum approved. by, South;Brevard voters, will allow.. the addition of a"-multipurpose"field,; nature trail,. The facilityfeatures a large c yered:plpyground"with a`sm_ all water4eature`;=- and other site improvements :'. -to visitors cool during hot_summerdoys: %4. frpa journal • 13 9 winter 9-004 x : Pro/ecr t'alm Aire : Villag't'alrk 5 e. (ost $2.153 million r Size.: 3 2,acres ? Architect Firm Jerry'Clawson, Ft Lauderdale,'Fla Engineering";Firm " Chuck�,Deebjt a; Lauderdale,, Fla e . T Contractor`Firm Miami Skyline, Miami, Fla 1 �u = Director Ernest'Burkee The entryway to --Pal Aire Park The 3 2 acre focihtyisahe orilypark in the AS part of the City of `Fort: Lauderdale's nocthwestcorridorofthe:CityofFort:Lauderddle $36 million 19.96"bond referendum, rest- :. t.F dents of Palm Aire V�llageinrtiated the ur , P chase of a";3 2 acre parcel to-* ill a void"of park: space i'n thenorthwest corridor of .the F ti'° aty .The city bought the land from Calvary t ��+ Chapel of Fort Lauderdale, and- received donated' design: services in :conjunction ' with the _Church:. Other funding -came from a Flo.rida' Recreation Development Program A (FRDAP) grant Citizens worked closely, with �� xr� Park; bt Recreation Department staff. to choose amenRR ities :for the park `. MM The park features two regulation -size x* g basketball°courtsi' a large multi purpose - field; outdoor racquetball=courts and a sand _ ft h apd volleyball court., It .offers a;s ed pavilion, �, AJshaded pavilion overlooksYhe sarid volleyball court Many°fomi6es and L restroorn.faalities and a <lar e ` la round 9 P. Y9 ® �com'munrtygroups;hold p�cnres m the;new ark v a s `surrounded;by a walV� vherepparents can sit t' while their .children playVisitors. can ,enjoy r the vvalkirig/jogging trail developed around one"of the`last native sand pine "commune ; yr tiesfin Broward County r' .' Picnic, tables and benches are scattered x throughout the.park�offeringyshaded areas foc families: to enjoy a meal together The pavilion irtthe park is also: used for birthday k parties; community gatherings and family reunion 4,- :A low observabori;wall=a.perfect place for parents to perch wF%ile th6rehildren -'are playing surrounds the;large pla"yground ..� frpa journal'*, 14 • minter 9,001 Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park in White Springs was named after the American composer who wrote Florida's state song, "Way Down Upon The Suwannee River". Located along the song's namesake, the Suwannee River, the park offers canoeing, hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. The park explores the state's cultural heritage through folk life programs and special events. In Craft Square, artists exhibit their skills and teach classes and workshops. The Annual Antique Tractor & Engine Show features wheat threshing, shin- gle milling and other farm procedures. The Suwannee River Quilt Show and Sale displays over 200 quilts and offers classes and demonstrations. Since 1952, the park has hosted the Florida Folk Festival, a three-day show- case of the music, food, dance, stories, crafts, and work life of Floridians. Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is a sanctuary for Florida's wildlife. A second magnitude spring fea- tures an underwater observatory for viewing the endangered manatee. The 210-acre park serves as a rehabilitation center for injured and orphaned West Indian manatees and recently acquired a pair of Black Bear cubs, several Key Deer fawns, and a Whooping Crane. Educational programs are offered daily on mana- tees, alligator and snakes. Northeast Florida State Parks are managed and staffed by experts on the natural, cultural and historic features at each location. Park employees and numer- ous volunteers are eager to share their knowledge and provide memorable experiences for visitors, including folklife programs, living history events, nature walks or guided tours through antebellum homes. • frpa journal • 47 • winter 2111114 i J l: iDI'.IDA Dix- I'.•MENT OF ENVIRONME:s ..ESL PROTECT-O:s i r I J S r •� :ifs f .% ' .% "t . C t h l Stretching across northeast Florida from the Atlantic coast to the Gulf are 36 Florida State Parks featuring landscapes that include swamp, wet prairie, underwater caves, first magnitude springs and the state's second longest river, the famous Suwannee. The Northeast District 2 Parks offer exten- sive recreational opportunities to explore both land and water and discover Florida's rich cultural heritage through historic sites and special events. Florida State Park visitors can surf, scuba, snorkel, swim, hike, bike, picnic or dive. They can canoe, ride horseback, fish or kayak on fresh water marsh or sea. Parks provide protected habitat for some of the state's notable wildlife, including bobcats, manatees, gopher tortoises, black bears, Gulf sturgeon and sandhill cranes. Exhibits reflect Florida's long history, from the first human inhabitants 10,000 years ago, to the sugar plantations, forestry and turpentine industries and fam- ily farms that defined turn -of -the -century European and African settlements. At Dudley Farm Historic State Park in Newberry, 18 heart pine buildings have been restored and the fields populated with heritage livestock breeds. Living history demonstrations of late 1800s Florida farm life include the cultivation and harvest of heirloom crops, cane grindings and costumed interpreters who plant flint corn, feed chickens and draw water from a backyard cistern. This 330-acre park's living history programs and displays are based on the Dudley family's recollections. Talbot Islands State Parks, north of Jack- sonville, includes four parks: Amelia Island, Big Talbot Island, Little Talbot Island and Ft. George Island. Together, they offer a 40- site campground, horseback riding, picnic shelters, boat ramps, kayak rental and miles of trails for hiking or cycling along sandy beaches, salt marshes and dunes. Nature photography, bird watching, kayaking and fishing are popular along both the seashore U. the tidal creeks. The Ribault Club Visitor Center recently opened with interactive exhibits depicting 6,000 years of local histo- ry. The Center also houses a National Park Service bookstore. jurisdiction: Sarasota County Project: Englewood Sports Complex Cost: $8 million Size: 136 acres Community Center 25,000 sq. ft. Architect Firm: ADP Group, Sarasota, Fla. Engineering Firm: Wilson -Miller, Sarasota, Fla. Contractor Firm: L.A.M. Management, Sarasota, Fla. " General. Manager.: -Johm McCarthy_ This state-of-the-art sports complex includes a 25,000-sq.-ft-recreation-building with a 11,000 sq. ft. gymnasium/rnultipur- pose room that is used for basketball, vol- leyball and. indoor. soccer. The building also . includes two classrooms, a free fitness cen- ter, locker rooms with showers, and offices. Outdoor amenities include two senior league fields, five Little League fields, one youth softball field and two adult Softball fields., Four soccer. fields,,.eight°tennis courts. and an outside basketball court provide other entertainment for athletes of all. ages. The complex includes miles -of walkways. in scenic settings and fishing ponds. Families'- also enjoy using the. picnic shelterand two playgrounds. The complex was funded entirely .from the Construction Capital Improvement Pro- jects. Community, groups help provide pro-; gramming for the center. A variety of; class- es, including aerobics ,and fitness training, are offered at reasonable prices. - Participating groups include the A.A.R.P., which provides job training to .get seniors backinto.the work force; the Englewood YMCA'which sponsored a men's`basketball- league; and`two events held in,conjunction., with the Englewood Chamber of Com- merce. The —town hall -meeting", featured' booths from- many local county agencies; - "Expo 2003" gave.area businesses the opportunity to. -set up booths with enter- tainment, food and prizes. V=1111iii The Englewood Sports Complex includes a variety of_outdoor sports fields and courts, as well as a 25,000-sq. ft. community center. Visitors can enjoy miles of scenic walkways,_. fishing ponds,' a picnicshelter and two playgrounds. The workout machines and equipment in the fitness room are available at-. no charge to community residents. - irpa journal a 46 9 ►-inter 2004 frpa journal • 15 • -inter 2004 jurisdiction; Town of Jupiter -7 - Project C0117muni Center y g�gg Cost: $110.2 million. IK 4, Size:. - 65,000 sq ft, Architect & Engineering Firm:: f�osf; Buckley;. Schuh-bz -Jernigan, Miami, Fla. i Contractor Firm Weitz Com an West 1}1 i Palm Beath; Fla Director: Russell Ruskay' < 5 ,Theresidents of juprte� needed. a facility z T where multiple recreational activities and meetin s could take lace. simultaneous) An attractive plaza welcomes visitors to the.Town of Jupiter s' - g Y. community tenter - : y The town wanted to increase its offerings -of - recreation classes camps leagues and senior programs epreseriaatives=from'several"' different community groups, served on 'a, planning ` committee .for the-f tility, providing vital a 6` 7 ez input about space needs and`.technital ;,AM►M Y R ka aI } ',E .ir,ements These , groups s incuudedra ueacTequesta, JunoJuprterChamberof Commerce :`Jupiter Tel Athletic=Assn 6tion, Jupiter Community: Schools, Jupiter Senior Citizen Clubs, and Jupiter Theater a`�Ra+4 kw Y `Y 9f Group The resulf of their efforts is a 65 060-sq tt b community center Wlth-SpdCe:`for a van , y f� programming The lobby of the e t o. The two story budding limas plenty of space for a variety of reereatkonol r building is architecturally'stnking appear Q activities meetings and craft classes _ ore' bike the -lobby of;an :upscale_ hotel r than•the entrance to a community center' d The center includes t .wo gyms with: a locker room;' a game room, and„a waiting c' r.0% a* f:P� ro area `An aud,itonum with Va stage. seats 300 ,0 .� a people banquet style and',600 people the ems--X. rater-style.Classrooms include an'art room, F , = a children's-room, and a dance room Constr'ucfiion of -=the building Was funded i 4 s sf 100%through general obligation bonds a The protect`came•-in half a million dollars unde-r budget and 102.days<ahead "of • schedule a - •interior-lobb The wtthts curves and attractive artwork resembles elegant hotel lobby r >r 4 a" �,. id _ r {•d' ..-r-,i'F'� - i-.., 2. .mow -'`: The Gregory House at Torreya was built in 1849 by Jason Gregory and originally stood across the river at Ocheesee Landing. In 1935, the house was moved to its present location and restored by the Civilian Conservation Corps, which also helped develop the park. Wakulla Springs State Park is a 4,700-acre wildlife sanctuary hidden in the moss -draped woodlands near Tallahassee. The heart of the park is the famous Wakulla Spring — a pre- ice age sinkhole connected to a series of under- ground aquatic caves. Crystal clear water flows from the majestic first magnitude spring to cre- ate the Wakulla River, one of the last pristine rivers in Florida. Boat tours operate 365 days a year allowing visitors to see alligators and rare birds, or drift over the bowl of Wakulla Springs in a glassbottom vessel. The quiet, elegant Wakulla Lodge offers 27 guestrooms and a dining room overlooking the spring. In 1923, on the rolling hills near Lake Hall in Tallahassee, Alfred B. Maclay, a New York financier, devel- oped a southern retreat for his fami- ly that included a winter home and gardens. Today, Maclay Gardens St ate Park visitors can enjoy the native plants used in the home's landscape that complement the flora found throughout the gar- dens. The Lake Hall Recreation Area offers picnicking, hiking, swimming and fishing. A popular setting for weddings, receptions or meetings, park facilities available for rent include a quaint Gardner's Cot- tage. The Lake Overstreet addi- tion offers weekend equestrian trail rides in addition to bike and hiking trails. Northwest Florida State Parks are managed and staffed with experts on the natural, cultural and historic features at each location. Park employees and numerous volunteers are eager to share their knowledge and provide memorable experiences for visitors, including folklife pro- grams, living history events, nature walks or guided tours through antebellum homes. • frpa journal e 4 ivkt,er 004 frpa journal • 45 • ►vinter 2004 FLORIDAOF ••NMENTAL PROTECTION - (' MIFF- ab6�'��11g" „If r :.=IN RVft Wes rr -I'Vor", wt D strkt I rom Pensacola to the Econfina River, Florida's 33 panhandle state parks include some of the world's best beaches, natural communities and recreational opportunities. Florida's Northwest District beach parks consistently score high in Dr. Stephen Leatherman's National Best Beaches Survey. Grayton Beach State Park in South Walton County ranked first in 1994, and St. Andrews State Park at Panama City Beach was chosen first in 1995. St. Joseph Peninsula State Park at Port St. Joe ranked first in 2002. Top -rated beaches provide only part of the region's appeal. At Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, the crown jewel of the Emerald Coast, visitors can enjoy over three miles of undeveloped, sparkling beaches and pic- turesque dunes that rise to 25 feet above sea level. Within this 1,640-acre park are old -growth long leaf pine forests, sparse sand pine scrub, dwarfed maritime hammocks and a variety of wetlands. Topsail Hill encompasses five rare coastal dune fresh water lakes, found only along Florida's panhandle in the United States. The high bluffs overlooking the Apalachicola River make Torreya State Park in Bristol one of Florida's most scenic. Rising more than 150 feet, the bluffs sport deep ravines eroded by centuries of stream flows. Named for the rare Torreya tree that is unique to the bluffs, the park's landscape provided a secure barrier from Union gunboats during the Civil War. Today, visitors can see the remains of the gun pit along the bluff trail. Jurisdiction: i Cty of Ft. Myers Project: Riverside Re-establishment of native COmmlunit Y vegetation was a priority when the Center city restored the grounds of the Cost: $1.9 million Size: 15,223 ft. Riverside {ir��t Community Center. sq. / _ Architect Firm: Gora & McGahey, �Ij �j Ft. Myers, Fla. Engineering Firm.' - TKW Consulting Engineers; '- Ft. Myers, Fla. Contractor Firm: Compass 'n� IIII, �t Construction, Ft.. "f,rf alltu _- NIII Myers, Fla; Manager of - Recreation: Austin Morris Ft." Myers built the Riverside Community Center to acquire. and preserve remaining riverfront within .the city while -creating a = national habitat for wildlife in the area. The f ■• city also wanted a place to.offer education-. r ,al programs. The new community center'.building' includes a- pottery room, classrooms," com-" plete woodshop-and a,full;catering kitchen.. .A ballroom is used for a variety of events; i including rehearsals of the,local symphony- orchestra..A screened -in lanai wraps around two sides of this building, giving .visitors - scenic views of the river.J- Programs at the facility are .offered. by 'a variety.of community.groups-They include _' Ascreened-in lanai "classes on everything from "cooking, -'art; ;wraps around two sides of the ballroom, and woodworking to. opportunities for resi- - offering visitors scenic -dents to enjoy theater.- and musical preserr- " views of the river. tations. - The'facility is -located on.four acres -of a'.- a renovated park 'and 'recreation 'area.; The --.- property was a, community eyesoreand badly needed trash removal,-mamtenance, invasive exotic plant'reRlovll;- and reStOrd-';-' tion of wildlife_ habiiat'.'As-:a_ result -of the _projects, .citizens -not only enjoy indoor.' r activities at-the-C2nterbut alSO.have-a place '° � E to roller blade,- walk- or, jog; play,.ori play-- grounds fish.and picnic.. ' Funding for the facility ,name from the, Florida -.Communities ,-Trust,`and."the: City of The new communit .center is located on four acres of renovated ark land. Work Y , p. Ft._Myers Capital �ImprovementsBudget. included, trash removal, invasivelexotic'plant removal and wildlife habitat restoration..,. [rpa journal 9 44 • winter 2004 i[rpa journal • 17 •Minter 2004 Jurisdiction amity of Palm Beach Gardens. �sm ®��b� 4 z "� `. : / Pro ect. -Palm Beach _ Gardens Skate hark - 4_. ? Cost:, $250,000- -Size. 12.000 sq.. ft r e - � Architect, tm: - MPA. Architects; West Palm* Beach; Fla. ' Engineering Firm: LBFW Engineering;= ! West Palm Beach',.Fla.. `� t. Contractor" Firm Jbkh �Woodstock ,' :_;: .:�. Jupiter, Fla. Director Charlotte Presensky The Skate Park is,located withina community park; within edsy walking distance'-. of q middle and q,hr ' h school 9 'After.holding'several very successful 1. N - Skate Night •programs-,.,the.City of Palm ",Beach Gardens -'decided; it needed.a per_: w manentirecre'ationaInfacility-for"in'line .- a skaters and skateboarders..- Skaters at the. one nightµevents had used portable wood-' en ramps that needed' a lot "of mai`nte=-, cx x r , L � V Hance, eventually, the ramps became i unsafe. The city also -wanted to provide an' n�. alternative that - would encourage kids"to skate at apublic facility°instead•. of on pub p y " mot: Ma"�� : f Inc; or rivate Walkwa s, stairs, and road L „ p Y �?- ways City representativesrnet wrEh youth ancl_- o?,, .- � Y skating groups: get a,better.understand ' ing Of the features that^ users ;wanted in,.a, Concretebanks and wooden pyramids add to the excitement for: young skaters ; skate park facility After several years of , - t planning; the Crty of Palm'Beach'Skate -. Park:was opened tn-,Novem'berv2002, a funding.,came through, a- mixture -of -recre- ation a ° ' ation impact,fees nd an FRDAR grant:'. The -marrr structures of the, Skate Park are made of concrete and include banks, s , pipes, hips, vertical walls and a horse"shoe t t z bowl. There isalso a street,eourse three "wooden pyramids Because -,the ' structures are made from COnCrete, the ' park needs less maintenance,and stays aes- theticallythetically: leasing,,, r - The kate Park is I Gated Within, a c S o om niunity,park feafunng 4,bas,�bal i id; out' door basketball�coui,6.-r•oller hockey rinks.` - - anda teen center It is`withm walking dis tance'of"a high school and a middle The city sought pdwce""from potential skateFparks users when plamm�g1 e park P school A ` ` The designer was'also'd skateboarder f r d frpa journal • 1;8 9 winter 2004 I vide volunteers with solutions that can be easily implemented," Holzinger says. These requirements that will be implemented over the next two years represent an aggressive approach, and the timing could- n't be better. A quick glance around the state, and country, finds that countless recreation departments have had their repu- tations permanently tarnished — and their young participants trau- matized — by problems ranging from violent confrontations among parents and spectators to the sickening incidents of pedophiles masquerading as vol- unteer coaches and molesting youngsters. The issue of screening and background checks has been in the national spotlight for quite some time, as horrific stories con- tinue to pop up across the coun- try. Sadly, the grim reality is that youth sports have proven to be Spec the Or Suffer the Rest a' Drinking Fountains, Hydrants & Special Water Applications fertile ground for sexual predators to operate. Palm Beach County staff will not perform the background checks, but will require the indi- vidual groups who want to use their facilities to take care of them. "When organizations are edu- cated about what is going on at a national level concerning back- ground checks and what is being discovered, then they look at it internally and they have been embracing it," Holzinger said. In 2004 Palm Beach County will begin distributing cards to coaches that have undergone a background screening check that they will be required to have in their possession at all times while at the facility for games and prac- tices. So, as Palm Beach County staff oversees events at its facili- ties,it can monitor whom is on the field with the youngsters. "When a coach is in the field there won't be any question if Best! i `V murdock SINCE 1853 488 mw Rood • Gndmi , Ohio 45m4 513-471-7700 uAxk@kmrd murdockfountoins.com they have had a background check," Holzinger says. "We'll also be in the field and ask the coach how it's going and thank them, because volunteers do an enor- mous amount of work for the community." As new facilities are built in the coming years, and the competi- tion for who gets to use them intensifies, the Palm Beach Coun- ty Parks and Recreation staff can take comfort knowing it's doing its part to ensure a safe and rewarding experience for the young participants. "We want to do this effective- ly," Holzinger said. "We're trying to set the standard for the com- munity." They've clearly made great progress. P For more information contact the National Alliance For Youth Sports at (800) 729-2057 or (567) 684- 1141; visit www.noys.org, or email noys@nays.org. 1 co m p oration 0 Architectural Fountains 0 Concrete Fountains Chilled Drinking Fountains 0 Wall Mounted Drinking Fountains 0 Vandal Resistant Drinking Fountains [rpa journal 9 43 • hinter 2004 "I love the Recommendations, they have been great. I hand out more copies of that than any- thing. That really is what laid the foundation for us to move for- ward." There has been little resistance among the roughly 40 organiza- tions that use Palm Beach Coun- ty's facilities to the new require- ments. In fact, to a large extent, they have welcomed them. "People are embracing it," _ KEMONE LUMMMalouplu KEYSTONE CAROLINAS • KEYSTONE SOUTH Holzinger says. "Some of these organizations that already have policies in place are breathing a sigh of relief that other youth sports programs in the communi- ty will now be doing the same things, too. "What really helped make this all happen in the last couple of years were the Recommendations. Now we are not a sole voice try- ing to do something. It allowed us to be able to say that these are O. Box 724076 • Atlanta, GA 31139-1076 • (800) 545-0754 • (770) 426-6161 the standards, and this is what needs to be done." Leaders in the parks and recre- ation field that were chosen to attend the National Summit on Raising Community Standards in Children's Sports in Chicago in 2001 developed the Recommenda- tions. The National Alliance For Youth Sports, America's leading advocate for positive and safe sports for children, conducted the Summit. "Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation should be applauded for taking these steps to help ensure that the sports programs conducted at their facilities will be free from violence and other out - of -control behaviors that we're seeing so much of around the country," says Fred Engh, founder and president of the Alliance. "The Recommendations are the voice of what leaders in the recre- ation field firmly believe needs to be the course of action taken, and the steps Palm Beach County is taking should serve as a model for other parks and recreation depart- ments around the state." The Recommendations, which have been endorsed by the National Recreation and Park Association, can be downloaded off the Alliance's website at no cost at www.nays.org. In 2004 Palm Beach County will implement additional require- ments before field use permits are granted. These will include that programs must provide some type of formal training for their volunteer coaches. that back- ground checks must be extended beyond coaches to include all program volunteers; that there must be written job descriptions for each position; and written guidelines must be in place for handling disciplinary problems that arise. They will also require groups to complete a survey in order to gauge areas that they can provide assistance and help strengthen. "We have an obligation to pro - jurisdiction: Polk County Project: Carter Road Park Senior . Baseball Field/Park Improvements Cost: $314,688/$231,000 Size: Outfield 350 ft. from home plate/various Engineering Firm: David Norris Engineering, Winter Haven, Fla/na Contractor Firm:,. Compton-Peachee Construction, Lakeland, Fla./various-league members .Director:' Don -Wilson Carter Road Park is a regional size"facility of over,'500 acres'. Activities in this park consist of eight little League fields, four softball fields, six soccer1fields, two playgrounds, :biking trails, and fishing Fakes with unimproved boat ramps: The existing little` Leaguel, program was " concerned about`losing'theiY Older players because there was no senior sized field to accommodate them. The new senior field was constructed to fill this void,, with ari'outfield at, the new facility located 350_,ft. from `home plate., Amenities on this field include dugouts - with roofs and team benches, spectator -bleachers and ,a scorer's booth. The county Is general fund covered the constr-uction-costs' for. this field. Because .of the county's•tight recreation budget, various sports Leagues undertook fundraising activities to add•.amenities-to their own playing,areas in„Carter-Road-Park.'A youth soccer league, a Babe Ruth League; and two Little,Leagues`funded,'des.igned-a.'nd.built' projects'that included a pedestrian bridge; pic=. nic pavilions,~batting-eager, sconngboxes, bleacher, canopy --covers; _and-.bleacher,roofs. The majority of funding for all°these programs "..came from the leagues; the county provided in"s'peetion services for the projects and: in: some cases'electrical,hook ups to'-existing,utili-' ties. The' combined -value of all' these projects` was more than $230,000. — The Carter Road Park senior baseball field features a scorer's booth, dugouts with roofs and team benches, and spectator bleachers. The South`LokelandTabe Ruth League roised_moneyfor,these bleacher canopies. and then -erected them. Irpa journal 9 42 • ►vint,er 2004 Irpa journal • 19 9 ivinler 2004 let F Profecr Plantation: Central It P^�h Park ;Expansion Soccer. fields/Frank Veltr.i .,.r .v . Tennis:Center r $4 6.milhon/$370,000 Size 30'acres Architect Firm: Wallace Roberts & Todd;, y. Coral Labler, fla: a9z Landscape architect �= Y Jeffrey Siegel I�■w y Engineering. Firm: Suntech, Ft: Lauderdale; Fla The Plantation Central Pork'Exponsion included the construction•of four multi="u"r ose fields: Contractor Firrrl: The Collage Companies, - - P P_ :. Orlando, Fla Director .James S Romano To meet the growm demands for recreation the -City of Pla"ntation acquired `30 acres adjacent to,, - T. the existing 77.acres.:of-Plantation Central Park= ' <' The park :is now:.one:of the: largest" active parks in. .. South Florida The on o • inclu ed the addition f four .new multi -purpose fieldsCentered- a"mong hem is I^ a :newgconcession stand/restroom/maintenance building; . -which provides support services foreplay spectators and staff :The city also`'addedyexten- �, . .sive landscaping',including oak trees that comple"77 ment the elegantly lit paths"and roads WA new.=lake, rwith a wetlands area,_was formed to' provide irnga The expansion of the Frank;Veltn Tennis Center included 4 new clay tennis iibn,f6r tfie project area The city also added over courts and `practice wall „' r '-J 00 additional parking spaces _to meet.the demand of=daily activrtles and,"a variety of large special.. events.r. :The frank Veltn Tennis Center has had -several, maJor `expansions ovars The" newest and;' ertheyej expansion'fiegan in 2002'�It added a tourna m'ent court, complete wit an expanded seating-, , _ area,, tournament lighting an'a-,- large pavilion. _ Three additional clay -courts were also party -of this. pr.,oject, as well- as the .construction :of a practice' hittin wall anda large patio area The project was- _ 9 completed with the`.construction of a new pro shop buildmgt with showers, ;lockersoffices ands retail merchandising a 3 f j project was funded by the 2002 Cityrofi' 54- Plantation Bond Program andAhe,,Broward County' -The renovations of the Tennis Center included `new walkway pavers and Safe Parks and L`dnd Acquisition BOrid Program `'landscaping frpa journal •. 20 winter 2004 Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation adopts stricter requirements to ensure safety of everyone using its facilities Emerges as model for recreation departments throughout Florida By Greg Bach roups looking to use Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation facilities for their youth sports programs will have to meet stricter requirements before they are allowed on the field this fall. To help keep violence and other negative adult behaviors out of youth athletic events, the Palm Beach County Parks and Recre- ation Department has unveiled several new policies regarding the application process for field use permits. The changes will take effect in October. "We don't want an incident to occur, and I'm glad to say that we haven't had an occurrence," says Andrew Holzinger, the athletic coordinator for Palm Beach Coun- ty Parks and Recreation. "We know that if we're not proactive, then an incident will happen because it's really only a matter of time with- out these measures being taken." The newly crafted measures require any group seeking a per- frpa journal 0 41 • winter 2004 mit to use the facilities to conduct formal background checks on each of its coaches and board members. They must also provide a copy of their bylaws and playing rules. "We're taking a pretty good step forward this year," Holzinger says of the changes, which have been in the planning stages for a couple of years now. "We were a little worried at first, but we have been following the Recommenda- tions for Communities. Show 'your kids how himp you re. Moms know that physical activity and proper nutrition are important for a healthy family. We do too. So take a walk, ride a bike, or share some quality time with your kids in America's public parks. Get active, volunteer, and support funding for parks and recreation. Make an investment that improves your health and your happiness — M for k6fet me. It starts in parks! AMOML i w ;w nrpa.org nov td out how you can a diffeie'nce� jurisdiction: Collier County Project: Max Hasse - Community Park/Louise Hasse Community Center Cost: $1.3 million/ $1.4 million Size: 15 acres; 10,000 sq. ft. ,® building Architect Firm: Barnay, Schmidt, Summers, Weaver, - Naples, Fla. Engineering Firm; Agnoli, Barber, Brundage, - Naples, Fla. Contractor_ Firm:- J, L. Wallace, Inc.,__ -Ft. Myers, Fla. The Louise Hasse Community Center provides a physical as well as social focal Director: Maria Ramsey point for the community of Golden Gate Estates. Max Hasse Community Park was built in y 1995, the first communityark to serve the P `l rural` area of the county. The Louise Hasse Com- munity Center, opened in 2001 to -meet the f M areas need for a community focal point Fund-- ing for the project came -from constructional.' impact fees. The Golden Gate. Estates Land Trust donated $50i000 for the development of the s 6 Y Community Center. _ Serving the Golden Gates. Estates; communi- r ty, Max Hasse Community Park is strategically - located at the gateway —to this rural community.' Its 20 acres preserve the character of the neigh-, borhood in its abundance of slash pine and pal- metto. ,The park offers two. Lighted tennis courts, a picnic shelter,. a football/soccer field, a covered basketball pavilion and a lighted' -play- tl ground. .The community center, which opened to the 'The fitness center offers residents -the use of-treadmlls recumbent bicycles Cypex - strength training equipment and free weights.",, fall of 2001, offers ,a variety of, family=oriented programming?Itincludes two-"meetingaooms, a. game room; conference room, kitchen; and rest .� rooms; as well as a fitness center- with tread- mills, recumbent-bicycles'"Cybexstrength train- -ing equipment and free weights: The park is adjacenttc an etementary;school, ' allothe school to,use. ark fields and facili-- 'Wing P ;�=" ®& The lobbyof the -Louise Hasse I ties when :available: during class- time: Children _ Community.Center.,The walk' escorted to the "park afteschool- hours "' --' building features meetingrr participate in -after -school activities. .. game. and'coriference.rooms , 'kitchen,;and-fitness•center- s 1, Irpa journal • 2, 1 • winter 92-004 jurisdiction: Colfier County f z"I., �J ry .Jii' x. Project Meterans k i 1°t ry } Commuln�ty l� `Park Roller. :-Hockiey" Rink ttyq� Cost: ` $56s,000 ' � s Size: 100 ft ,by_225 ft 1. Architect Firm: Gary Harvey " iy' ( Engineering/Collier �Fz i County Parks'Sz Recreation, Ft. --Myers, Fla. -' Engineering Firm TLC; Ine Lobnitz-Cooper,. There are over 360 players=partiopaiing m Noples Youth Roller Hockey League Naples, -Fla Contractor Firm Chris. Tel Company,: r :ft Myers, Fla: = ' "Director Marla Ramsey � � l °'hockey,>!s -a popular,recreationalpas s'a time.in Collier County But;the combination of ski the t�aditi"oval. weatker. pa"ttern of afternoon.,` ihunderstorrmis m the summer andorter day ` Ilght;hours_'in the .wrnter lefttoo little';playing tim,e-at the county 's,outdoor r6ilet:hockey;nnk To solve'the problem, the Parks bepartment- 66v6ned'th6 rink with an aluminum roof; and- �� II hied it so that la could continue rigall 9 P Y 9 the park s- hours of operation i8 a r to 10_: ' ' t m Now Veterans Communit Park is _home to,the only:outdoor covered and'lighted multi 4 K ` a purpose,,nnk for :roller hockey irr Southwest_; ;The roller.hockey ri. is lust one , many amenities at Veterans Community Park onda T structure's, flooring is post -tension con < Crete slab with California Products Plexiflorm yr , ;f - line'.hockey!,surface- The forest -green roofs is. . made>of pre;fab, pre painted steel>panels ' The facility hosts the .Naples Youth Roller Hockey League, Collier `County 'Child Safety E; Fair, and summer camp prggrams' - Other outside recreational facilities 4t Veter-.' ans Community. Park include two, lighted bas �� : ' ,r= ,� �I��i:1( � � ,; j� � � �� ° � " ketball courts, two•sandvolleyball�:courts,�-three . , . llghted�ofiball fields„a Lighted baseball"field, four ightedboccie,ball courts, -four lighted roc t t 1 -- �quetball courts, four lighted tennis courts and'' a lighted soccer/football field The_site also lea, s turesa lighted playground and°.a Rover- Run q dog park Coll ies:County:covered.aiid 6ghted.the existing rolleraiockey""facility to:m'eet the !F �< demand;for more' la rn lime r PY9 r Irpa journal 0 22 9.winter 2004 800 acres to about 2,600 acres and has seen the agency responsibilities change from maintaining medians and cemeteries to running a massive park system. Ferlita is a past presi- dent of FRPA, and most recently chaired the 2002 National Recreation and Park Association's Annual Congress in Tampa, Flori- da. Ross' contributions to FRPA are numerous, but probably the most well known is his chairing of the Conference Task Force which was responsible for the current budgeting format that has resulted in record revenues being Ross Ferlito produced from the annual conference. Ross is looking forward to spending more time with wife Jane and 18-month-old grandson Jake. When asked his hope for the future by Tampa Tribune reporter Janis D. Froelich, he responded that he wants children to have soccer fields, skate parks for teenagers like the one about to open at DeSoto, bike and walking trails for baby boomers, and seniors' community centers for exercise and fellowship. Ross is a true professional who will be missed by many. Congratu- lations Ross! • r • h %-�� = Hill Precast, webuild t e At JE ecas , room for that. Whatever your industry needs, we can fabricate, deliver and install an Easi-Set building for it. 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And let us tell you about our installation service that truly enables Accord to deliver a "Turn -Key" solution. Once you speak with us you'll also understand why Accord is "Setting a Higher Standard". Call us at 800-477-7675. CONCRETE PRODUCTS L`OQ www.accordindustries.com Division of Recreation and Parks. "Mike is a proven leader," said Secretary Struhs. "Mike brings three decades of experience and knowledge to guide the state's large and diverse park service. I am confident that he will keep Florida's state parks the best in the nation." A 31-year veteran of Florida's award -win- ning state park sys- tem, Mike began his career as a Landscape Designer — one of the first professional land - use planning positions in the division. From 1988 tol996, he man- aged a multi -million dollar con- struction program as Chief of the Bureau of Design and Recreational Services. Since 1996, he has served as Assistant Director of the Division of Recreation and Parks, overseeing day-to-day operations of 157 state parks and more than 1,000 employees. "I am honored by this opportu- nity to continue my service along- side Florida's dedicated park profes- sionals," said Bullock. "With their help and that of the thousands of volunteers and partners through- out the state, we will continue to improve upon our mission to pre- serve and protect our natural and cultural resources for our citizens and visitors." Mr. Bullock was raised in Gainesville, Florida. After serving in the U.S. Marine Corp, including two tours of duty in Viet Nam, he graduated from the University of Florida in Landscape Architecture. He received further training from Harvard University's Graduate School of Architecture and Urban Design, Indiana University and Florida State University. During development of Cocks - comb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Preserve in Belize, Mike was Michael Bullock an advisor to the Audubon Devel- opment Society and assisted with summer youth camps in Honduras. Mike has also published articles for the National Park Service on park facility design and lighthouse restoration, and served as an instructor for the National Recreation and Park Association's Risk Management School in Colorado Springs, Colorado. "Mike has earned the respect and admi- ration of all those who work with him," said Deputy Secretary Bob Ballard. "Under his direction, our ability to meet the outdoor recreational needs of our citizens and visitors will flourish while we continue to preserve and protect our world class natural and cultural re- sources." Larry Perry has been named to serve along side Mike Bullock as the Assistant Director of the Divi- sion. Larry has been serving as the Acting Assistant Director, and has extensive service within the Divi- sion of Recreation and Parks. He is a proven leader that holds the respect of the over 1000 employ- ees within the Division. Tampa Parks and Recreation Director Retires Ross Ferlita, Director of the Tampa Parks and Recreation Direc- tor has retired after having served as Director since 1978. Ferlita joined the Parks Department in 1974 as Assistant Director and took the helm as Director in 1978. He held the position through six may- ors and the recent merging of the Parks Department with the city's Recreation Department. Initially scheduled to retire Sep- tember 30, Ferlita will be staying on until his successor is picked. Ross brought the park system from Jurisdiction: Collier County Project: Sugden Regional Dark Cost $3.5 million Size: 120 acres Architect Firm: Victor J. Lavatish, Naples, Fla. Engineering Firm:- PM Inc., Naples, Fla. Contractor Firm: Bonness, Inc., Naples, Fla. Director. Marla Ramsey Collier County,developed-Sugden Regional Park to provide freshwater recre- ational opportunities and a -large outdoor . area for special events, corporate picnics and other large gatherings. Herb =Sugden donated a portion of the funds- to -purchase the land for the park,. and the Florida Communities Trust grant- ed $800,000 toward the purchase as well. Two Florida Recreation and Development.. .Assistance Program (FRDA'P). grants-- : helped fund facility, development., The park offers two fishing piers on Lake Avalon-, which covers half- of the- park's 120 acres. It includes a fresh -water beach, playground, and large picnic pavil- ions. A 1.5 mile.paved fitness tail is avail able Ao-walkers, joggers and, bicyclists.- : The park.'s" partially covered, lakefront amphitheater, -which seats 800- J ffers a view of the weekly water -skiing -show. The park is home to the Collier County " Sailing Center; which provides :Learn -to Sail -classes -fog youth -and Accessible Sail- ing classes for the disabled. Children can-, take swimming lessons, orlearn,W ski , with the Gulf Coast Skimmers,The park is. home to the, annual, Jaycees -sponsored Fourth of July celebration =and has .hosted' a -regional water ski: tournament. ,Planned; ,future improvements-inclu'de wetland restoration, addition of a water_-feature'to the swimming area and"development of"a storytelling,nook An outdoor amphitheater at the paik seats 800. 'Visitors'can enjoy a weekly water-skiing show. After enjoying time on the lakefront -beach; swimmers can spend -some time on , the lake in rented paddleboats.-Lake Avalon covers half of the parks 1.20 acres. The playground is located conveniently close.to the-beach.and to picnic pavilions. Irpa journal • 38 •►~'inter 2004 Irpa journal • 23 • winter 2004 N ftpa journal 024 • winter 2004 Election Results I` Elaine Smith of Pasco County Parks and Recreation was recently elected as president-elect of FRPA. She will being her term as president- elect immediately, and has already traveled to the NRPA Congress in October to represent Florida along with President Karen Palus. Smith will assume the helm of FRPA as president when she is installed at the 2004 Conference Installation and Awards Banquet. The FRPA Focused on the Future amendments to the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of the Association were approved. The ini- tiative passed in six of the eight dis- tricts, with one district tying, and one district with an overall disap- proval of the amendments. The board of directors has moved into the transition plan, which was developed by the board at its May 2003 planning retreat. Continue to look to the FRPA Web Site at www.frpa.org for updates on the progress of the tran- sition and where you can become involved. If you have an interest in becoming involved, contact the President Karen Palus or Executive Director Eleanor Warmack. Student Highlight The Florida Recre- ation and Park Associa- tion wishes to contin- ue to build our relationship with stu- dents at Florida univer- sities who have chosen parks and recreation as their profession. We welcome these stu- dents into the profes- sion that has a tremen- dous impact on the Kim Hinckley n s n_ Elaine Smith well-being of our state. This issue of the FRPA journal will feature Kim Hinckley, a student from Florida State Uni- versity. Kim is from Lees - 'I burg, Florida and here is what she had to i offer in response to ' questions from the editorial staff: Why did you select parks, recreation and leisure services as your degree? I selected this degree because it would offer me an opportunity for a future in an exciting career where I would be able to positively impact individu- als' lives through recreation. Was (were) there any individual(s) who was (were) involved in your decision to select your major? There was no single person who was involved in my decision. I have always participated in recreation and see the importance of it in everyday life. What activities have you been involved in while at FSU? I have had four great years at FSU! My fresh- man year, I was hall ambassador in the dorm I lived in. In this position I gave tours of our dorm and helped incoming freshmen make decisions about their living arrangements for the upcoming year. In my first year of the Recreation and Leisure Ser- vice Administration program, I was elected president of FSU Recreation Profes- sionals, which is the professional organiza- tion for our major. Dur- ing my term as presi- dent, I have become better acquainted with the field of recreation, helped the students in our major develop professional skills that will aid them in the field, as well as expose Irpa journal 9 37 • winter 2004 them to the profession through conferences and seminars. Where are you interning? I will be interning in the spring for the City of Tempe, Arizona, at the Kiwanis Recreation Center. Why did you select this internship, and what do you expect from your internship? I selected this internship based on the size and the diversity of programs and services the agency offers. While in Tempe, I am seeking a new place where I will be able to have new experi- ences that will help me grow pro- fessionally and personally. I am expecting to have a great intern- ship, where the staff is supportive in helping me apply concepts I have learned in the classroom to the professional setting. What are your plans for your future once your internship is com- plete and you graduate? I am apply- ing to Florida State's Recreation and Leisure Service Administration master's program. Upon comple- tion of that program I am interest- ed in finding a managerial position in Municipal Park and Recreation in the state of Florida, to stay close to my family. Thank you Kim, and best of luck on your internship. This is one example of the quali- ty young professionals that will be entering our profession in the com- ing years. If you have a student or are a student and wish to be fea- tured in an FRPA journal issue, con- tact the FRPA Executive Office for more information, or email Eleanor @frpa.org. Bullock Named Director of the Division of Recreation and Parks Florida Department of Environ- mental Protection Secretary David B. Struhs and Deputy Secretary for Land and Recreation Bob Ballard today announced the selection of Michael Bullock as Director of the jurisdiction: YOU'RE THE BOSSrrr TELL US YOUR SPORT & YOUR REQUIREMENTS WE'LL MEET THOSE REQUIREMENTS AND MORE... l In SOCCER NETS BASEBALL BACKSTOPS OUTFIELD NETS (Durable, Treated) (for heaviest weight in market) TENNIS NETS BATTING CAGES VOLLEYBALL NETS WINDSCREEN FOR OUTFIELDS, TENNIS COURTS, BULLPENS AND DUGOUTS (a steal in dark green, royal & brown) Ar, GOLF PRACTICE CAGES Net, Impact Net & Frame We'll help you sort out your needs and provide quality materials , WE ARE THE MANUFACTURER! 415 Cox Road Cocoa, FL 32926 (321) 631.6668 Fax (321) 631-6771 Toll Free (888) 631.6387 We thought you'd like to know... A Vegetated Retaining Wall? A Grassed Parking Lot? 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Ask us about in-house luncheon seminar scheduling �EROC�. • Anaconda Sports® CALL US TOLL FREE FOR YOUR COPY OF OUR NEW FULL -LINE PARKS & RECREATION CATALOG! kaW SPA>LnwG. i Don Mkm wtraom pew,m I Rddatk. frpa journal • 36 • winter 2004 Majestic Louisville a aaA`s • �TML[TIG ...and MORE! 2 Anaconda Drive Lake Katrine, New York 12449 City of Oviedo Project: Oviedo Sports .�; Complex/ Youth Baseball Complex - Cost: $1.036 million Bleachers, benches and even picnic tables provide visitors with their The city already owned the ten acres for this complex, which is Size: 10 acres choice of seating for watching the adjacent to existing fields. The site Architect Firm: SK Consortium, Maitland, Fla. games. , is bordered by wetlands. Engineering Firm: SK Construction, Maitland, Fla. Contractor Firm: A. C. Scott Construction,. Winter Park, Fla. Director: Dru D. Boulware The City ofOviedo. needed additional -baseball fields to meet the needs of -youth baseball , leagues. It already provided field space for the Babe Ruth Leagues, but the Little League :Is` organization, which had been playing on property owned by a church, needed to move to city -owned fields when the church decided to use its land"for other purposes. The city.already owned ten acres.adjacent to the existing Oviedo Sports;Complex, so it used thatsitefor three new fields. Two of the fieldsare=Little League size-Beeause of the wet p 6k lands that'border the 'park, and the major mitigation .work that would be' required to use this area, the city had to limit the size of the remaining field. This third field'.is°sized for t-ball or - softball. -(The-city hopes at some-point.in=the future to -do -the _necessary.wetlands.rhitigation., An overvlewof!he City of - work so that it can expand the field size.) Complex shows the t oseboN- 'Complex shows the two _Funds for the project came from: the city's ,general budget. The city engineering depart- Little League fields and the'_ rrient played, a key role_ in the development of the facility, while. the city parks division han-. one smaller field that is used " for softball and t-ball. dled major field development; irrigation, and landscaping. - tt. jurisdiction: r Co11ie County Project: Eagle Lakes Community Park Cost: $3.1 million Eagle Lakes Community Park serves Size: 32 acres More'than 7 30 species of birds make both as a destination for birdwatchers Architect Firm: Sehenkel Shultz, their home in the park; it has been and as home to the Hispanic Soccer . named one of the top 10 bird League. Ft. Myers, Fla. watching spots in Florida. Engineering Firm: Wilson Miller, Inc., Naples, Fla. _ s Contractor Firm: W. G. Mills Inc:; Sarasota, Fla. Director. Marla Ramsey,_ Eagle Lakes Community Park provides.both passive and active recreational opportunities for residents within of the South Naples community. Its development was a collaborative effort with the Collier County Water and Three large lakes encircle the park; o nature the Sewer District. The Parks Department and .Sewer District purchased land trail runs along the berms that retain them:. together and rezoned it concurrently. The park serves both-departments"needs, functioning as a water retention'afea and a recreation Site:. The county's NaturalResources Department has now joined`, this partnership, and the three organizations are presently working together to develop an educational kiosk related to bird watching opportunities: The 32-acre park serves two distinct purposes. First, it is a passive recreation area, with three -large lakes that encircle the park. A two and a half mile nature trail runs along the"top,of the berms that retain the lakes, a.perfect location for - viewing the more,than 130 species of birds that inhabit.the:lakes . The -park is also home to the Hispanic Soccer League, which serves over 38,000 people. There are two-soccer/foot- ball fields, baseball and softball fields, basketball court, picnic shelter and lighted playground. A one mile paved fitness trail connects the park to nearby neighborhoods. I I AN, r1 f t!v ( r( Il�a;fa y. Freshwater " f The &M its in, the new Monarch Interpretive Center x as . are mostly, - .'a-'•.� . Interactive, 4 k'" designed to. . educate children . and'ddults on the - native flora and found.. hew1;645 so. `ft exhibit h'alJ' at iSecret Woods Nature Center in Dania,<Beach Flora A da The faalit which took almost a yeart,,o I ` ' J complete Is amuch-needed replacement: f M- forthe aging original exhibithall: A - The new hall'.includ es' exhibt space, ,an-, orientation room with audiovis41. equip, k; ment, restrooms;and storage Th'e emphasis ` , is on interactive exhibits rather than �ther" r. taxidermy that dominated the old hall` Exhibits are designed J6. educate children sue«x a and adults, on the native.:flora and fauna of the__nature: center; which -opened in -T978 The theme'of the n'ew facility: A River.'through Time is:'_retnforced to the; wall mural that chorrncles the hisory f the New River �, The theme of the new 'facility, A River to_ through Time ",ris carved out'in a�mural x _ o that chronicle`s the.history of the, New River. + The tile`rfloor features a"beautiful butterfly 0{ mosaic tile, The Monarch -interpretive Center result ed ;from the partnership efforts of Broward E County; Parks and Recreation bivision; the Florida Inland Navigation Distract, B'roward County Cultural Division, and .the Florida Recreation Development Assistance- Pro - gram The centerwas designated a.Pubhc Art'and Design Protect by the Cultural Divi Sion This meant; -that -.two percent of -the ,r total new; construction budget was, desig s f Hated for 'commissioned. -•artists to provides 14, �. x cesigh, expertise and to`.ereate'artworks for / f dt Artists created the butterfly-doorsAfot the center the facility was: designated a Public ;x Xr + .� i e T r J .• sr r' if't(t no, -Design ProjE et p: a• cpa jouiuol �11i15 -6:'wWer 20014 jurisdiction: City of Hollywood Engineering: City of Hollywood Department of Design r and Construction _. Management. The Driftwood Community.Center was built to replace an outdated, undersized facility. The new community center is used constantly from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. -Contractor Firm: Pirtle Construction, Inc., Davie; Fla. ..- Director: David Flaherty The public had significant -input into the design of :the Driftwood. Community Cen- - ter. This, resulted 'in a multipurpose facility - that includes two large spaces divisible into five smaller function spaces. Each space has its. own storage, Lighting, and in'some cases, data outlets.. Accommodations for -stage lighting were -built--into one -section - where a temporary stage can be erected for a theater/performance environment_. A full service kitchen permits catering for various - functions. Two large multipurpose spaces can be divided into five smaller spaces. One of those spaces was designed to accommodate a temporary stage and stage The building includes a preschool Class= lighting. room with restroom and fixtures for -small users. A meeting room, Community -Police 33 office and .restroorn Wore constructed.: to function separately from, or in conjunction With,'. the -'rest of the -center. This_aiiows' team -meetings and -similar activities to -take. place without the need''to open, staff --and air condition the rest oftFie,facility. w `f n - The athletic fields were designed, to: _ ..,accom'modate-four baseball/softball. fields. .-Hard, surfaces and fences -were eliminated -- on the -east -west axis of the.layout .allowing for -full size soccer and football fields';to`be laid. out'on- a. north -south axis., The"swim- Eg Ming •pool-was.'designed with, a full 75 ft t side of zero `depth" entry, permitting' safe _use by swimmers and'wade'rs•`of all abilities:. ; The baseball/softball fields can also be laid;out as full-size soccer and football . ' fields. jurisdiction: City of Clearwater r J nil Project: Crest Lake J.•k� _ .l -Park j r Cost: $170,000 (dog park �_\ and playground)+ Size: 40 acres Architect: Leroy Chin, City of Clearwater Director:. Kevin_ Dunbar This park, one of the city's oldest and largest, had begun to attract people engag- ing in illegal activities. The_ city decided to The dog park's hydrants are painted in dog -friendly themes. reclaim the area, to make it a place that would attract all its, - citizens. After. seeking public input through surveys and public meetings, the city developed plans for its first dog park and :for a new playground. The projects --were financed.- •through recreation impact fees. r, and'the,general fund. 5 i. The park consists of 40 acres with a 10- acre lake in the mid-. dle. ,It features walk- Gi,1 ing and, bike- paths, fishing an_d:wfitness. course. ;' The` city moved the _play- ground to .a location The park includes two separate playgrounds: osmall=scale area designed for 2-5.year.olds_ closer to the. rest- �ondalarger playground for ,the biggerkids:'. - •rooms" and .farther'' _ away:from "busy traffic.`lt-installed a state-of-the-art, AOA accessible playground; with one area for young. children and the other for children ages five through 12. Comfort- able, six=foot wide, sidewalks link t0 the.parOs trails and: pro vide easv accessto the d&ss a ui ment-and amenities: The- dog park=long requested `by• area residents -hosts 100,to'300-;visitors dail :;Visitorsare reetedb "a; `iant five=' ' -f i eet on b seven feet wide ' St: B" rnard' i r e to a (with'= g , y, . ,. P Y accompanyin"g topiary fire hydrabt).- Other am"enities.. include three separate dog runs; -drinking fountains -with pet bowls and,,paw washers? - s... P A canine yisitor.checks out the dog toprory in -Crest-Lake Park's dog park area frpa journal • 34 • winter 2001 frpa journal • 27 9 winter 2004 ri' i' .n Ju, sd ct o . f M .�.. 1rM t C .a �t et u 77 x y d so w . Y. rF A 1. S• 6< — f • b � xi • .h,- =Y. .1 f:. t~ G l�L Y.. sue. b V tb F C 1 r _ 4r ... c ,,. - ate•,. _ �,.. ... ,�, .. �x s� �:_�_,. ^?a:;.. - .ate., .,,":✓<--�s':�P:.� nY+, , _ .. irpo anal. •winter 2OOa :- a J u 2� jurisdiction: ` ` l - y ' of :Tin a y 177 o} r r � r P t t x b P n ro1 ect. COta Ch • Obee F� i :Fort Brooke =:Park : r w q ■ yCOSt: $��-.% million', �';/� ,�� i a... • ' .: ..• i. h ti.- ..,.may .9e $ -• ^X ..P :a 6. .. e .. -.- .. ' ac q uisition, $3.5 ., I million construct%ion 1., b a; Se• iz . .9 acres' f '3 re Architect Firm:;. Hardeman'Kempton Landscape Architects, Tampa, Flamm Engineering Firm: URS, Tampa, Fla CO' htractor Firm:: Valley Crest, w Orlando,",Fla The memorial at Cotanchobee Park.gives visitors the story of the settlement of Florida from'the perspective of all parties involved, Director Ross. Ferhta including the Seminole Indians { The city of Tampa has along-range.me a B Y goal of increasing public space along -the q a waterfront and -connecting all.public` facil 5; sties with a Riverwalkl Fort Brooke Park isr part of+,that plan. ,r Y''t x - Tampa transformed four vacant acres } F of ;land with a dilapidated v4harf a,nd hardened'shoreline into- a neighborhood . .� park and destination for citizens and.'visi tors The;'site features a''natural` shoreline * f s t :.with,w`eYland:'habrtat restoration='ally - .na`tive <p1ants—and '`. access�vra a r canoe/kayak launch it inclu'des broad open lawn, areas; A inear seat wall run .;� ni,ng`its entire length -;and facilities to = - 'The park.featares a canoe"and kayak,launch area .Plantings for accommodate a`,mobile stage foc concerts c and other events Itrovidesxthe:onlyr"WetandhabitaGkestoraUon,eanbeseen�alongtheshorey fwU rA {. P J Y downtown location of play, equipment: si,gnficant, eature is the r Seminole{Memorial This park commemo r' e. rates both sides•of the;storyof Florida's a� settlement, especially the removal of :the r ' Lridians'from the area The�:me -oral explains=Elie his of the park _'site, of f Fort Brooke, the Seminole Wars" the Indi'" an, nation- and the settlement,` f T _ampa ` r This memorial came,to:fruition°through xrr ti .( r _5 ;the cooperation of the:$emmole Tribe of .,� - Flonda'ard the' City of Tampar l he park's y{ U: 4 ' 12 ftarea wrth low diving name, Cotanchobee was the name is`the;tirst m the at to;haVe- ed:nb ,the,aSeminole Tribe It means;."the x"f - Y pool deck for sunbathing , big';p,iac:e where the°water,:meets i w4 r Tfie "ark.includes the onl downtown,16tation_of play equ+ement.H IrPH JoUrnal • 33 o ivdix 2004 jurisdiction: City of Tampa At 14,000 sq. ft., the David Barksdale Senior Citizen Center is Tampa's largest community center. M Resrdents_can-_ . the octagonal. ""�"--" - "'� room rrmUsrc � - pavrlrob located in • roomcomputeC� a nearby MacFarlane '` a !ab arts and .- Park Project- David Barksdale .Selnio,lr Citzeln_Center Cost:. $1..535 million f - - Size: 14,000 sq. ft. Architect'Firm: Sol Fleischman Architects, Tampa, Fla: _ Contractor Firm: Manual Lanz Construction, Tampa; Fla _ - Director: Ross Ferlita _ 'The -original David Barksdale Senior,Citizens Center was ;bullt in 1'942.as-a� USO building As the city"grew,; how; -ever, S ace.for r0 ranimin .became too limited.' TO -relocate' -tile -Center the-cit ehose'a site<that=it-al"read P P 9 9 , Y Y. OWnecl one that could accommodate" r0 rams and parking`needs- and[ one".that was located -within five -mil es of he existing center. The new"I ildi`n `. i n - g _ ,000,sq , ft. bu -,g s,centrally-located., MacFarlane Park In "West:Tampa: IVls-.a 'complete -recreation "complex; targ(Aing Tampa's senior population wlth`'physical, mental and, ScicW o Iortunities.- n Newprogramming " com one ts,rnelude�tenrns:and�rac netball basketball-, walking/jogging--trails, 'icnic.shelters; _ P 9. ,. P fd ' `=shuffleboa and seasonal" a' uat c pr,og ram mm " " Barksdale Senior Center; is: the;cit 's'lar est corn-munit center at'features':a-3-500,-s ".`ft.,ballroom_ divisible -for concurrent use -),'a -di 'room -and kitchen: It_also=has a music room eom titer lab .art -an V i ne ),. g ,, p s and,crafts room, f t ess room and -game room: The building 's:architects &ew.their ins iration from, hlstor c W. ,est Tam a nel hborhood The �� "incor orated 9 -p -. P. -g Y,� ' MacFarlane Park's;historical-and most.identifiabl `f a r h "octa"on'I: avili e . e to e, ,t e g ..a ,p on that'•sits on.;the-hill east :of th'e:" center into the-octa oval: entr roof: That desi n element"was echoed -in the�mosaii floor In th . r ' " g. y g e ent yway.: jurisdiction: i City of Winter Springs Project Name: Torcaso Dark Expansion Cost: $550,000 Size: 3 acres Architect Firm: ` CPH & Starmer Ranaldi, Orlando & Winter Springs, Fla. Engineering Firm: Conklin, Porter, Holmes, Orlando, Fla. Contractor Firm:. Harbco, Orlando, Fla. -Director: Chuck Pula Torcaso Park. is a 10-acre neighbor-. hood_ park. with three lighted basketball ` courts and -two playgrounds`Other amenities include a lighted walking trail i ' and exercise course, a fishing pier, and a - - restroom. When officials of the City of Winter Springs and of Seminole County noticed -that youth in -the area were playing foot- ball an dsoccer in the street, they decided to -expand the-, park --with, a new a a football/soccer field. This dual-purpose - -field features Sea Isle l Paspalum7 Turf, a new variety of grass that requires less water and fertilizer and is more wear ` resistant. This- playing -surface has held up- • well and continues to look good. ',The splash pool is a f6vorite with park visitors;-up,fo. 30 can play in the water at..- Planners -also .wanted to -add features for young children to Torcaso Park. The result -:was the city (and- county's) first Splash Playground. The _interactive water - ,playground is a ..30=foot circular concrete .f z ;pad with -1-1 underground -jets and foun taihs. Up Ao 30''children:at�a time can: _ = enjoy -this water feature. Because -no part.-. -r5n94 eausmrSp_ual .`£[ErBC, -®�� of the ou taf n � �`'Is in above- round �thie�ci-' '- _ ' has -savedmoney on- malntenance ands `av-oided problems with -vandal ism;.;Thls�:: I „y feature has" roved o ular; over'360- people attended its;grand.opening,. _ Funding for: the par improyements -'` came -from• -a :Comcimunity. Developmenf Block .Grant,;_FRDAP: Grant, and`clty Stormwater'FUnCln ` _:8ecause.t.ere a . m,nts:ex ose .above [ e" surfa`ce the'splash fountain - re no elee'- Site're wires litile . airitenance and.continues to look ood .- ter: �I ..-� Young players -get a football lesson on' Torcaso Park's new football/soccer field. 11W [rpa journal • 32 9 winter 2004 � frpa journal 9 winter 2004 x v� lurisdictton ; ity `of Tccnn pal me 3,�0o ft� boardwalk ardes. Pro ect NFL .Youth 1 ; w the lake, providing ' Enrlchrr>Ienfi°. �isita�SW,tha,r close-up lookw the Town .Center wildlife and Idnts found ,in a P` at' Jackson hardwood swamp.,Weights j - .. Cost $1.714 million Architect'Firm... City. -of Tampa Public Works, james ' F Jackson, Art i ect' , t Contractor Firm:. SL C,6mtruction,, Tampa; .Fla:, Director: " Ross:Ferlita- q'r y. ,The Jackson Heighs <,netighb'oood as ' locafed in,Tampas Enterprise:Communi ay/Enterprise Zone The:'ongmal Jackson ' Heights`Commun`rty Center served inner - city,:disadvantaged youths and adults, 3X ' The,: ooden building was more than:: 50 years however, and`,no bigger than;a r one room schoolhouse Its "age and small - ;: size made it fiotally inadequate tci sefve Tfie;NFL the needs;of the area s'residents: -a he e, t ;rc That changed: whenSuper ;$owl, XXV ., w came to Tampa'injan'uary 2001 The newNFL':'Youth Enrichment Town (YET) Center at :Jackson Heights was:_born out of -the desire of the NFFL'to leave a `lasting a n P legacy to ;communi ies,hosting" a Super . �g L - d r Bowl The philosophy of the Youth Edu M cation Towns is .that coupling education rent perspective on the lake a recreation can help disadvantag ed r� �F 4 ' `ch'ildren overcome the obstacles to suc cesS t r f s :The Jackson Heights NFL Youth Enrich it storm water treatments rnent Town Center was funded from'° ameto realize thatthey l <�kr. �? three£sources� including;donations` from V fi i:..aA,itfL 1' the NFLyand thePGlazerFamily.EFounda acres ofhighly populat z; tion and` oroceeds�from a $17 million �� ` servation�tower With 40 :: r bond recreation -'bond The new -12 000 > ' valk )' through a pristrne sq :ftf centejeatures a.gymnasium, com a. bserye the parks wildlife ,- ' ` r ` paterIab, k�tchen�Nandrrnultipurpose�F axes,;Amencan alligators T. room .It also des "ant football F.. f.� .,.,-,�' t y ...6 •f W4 i { s i.s�f> r. ,f •+F,�.., r-,r field The NFL YET Center offers; myriad" ��h,; >nda Water Management j ' of sports educational 'social serviceand rovde f60dmg The crty S; , cultural programYfor approwma 300 ity, Environmental EdLP rely 4neiqVb&h6c&youths and ffi -families- Thescei napye r lantin s �, y px 1 ', rw� s r; ,;�' f°° •8ppr6z � x- t9 irpa jnurnal F