Author: Haley Waugh

CRPD Celebrates Dedication of Lowery Field at Ahlstrom Park

Posted on by Haley Waugh

On August 9, the Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) celebrated the official dedication of Lowery Field at Ahlstrom Park in honor of Franklin C. Lowery, a cherished community member and longtime Rancho Cordova Little League supporter.

Franklin Lowery’s commitment to youth baseball in Rancho Cordova began in the 1950s and continued for more than four decades, lasting until around 1993. Throughout those years, he served in numerous roles, including Equipment Manager, Field Maintenance Supervisor and Member of the Board of Directors. His dedication left a lasting impact on generations of local athletes and families.

Although the field was unofficially named “Lowery Field” in 1987 during Rancho Cordova Little League’s Opening Day, the name has lived on in community memory for decades. This year’s official dedication ceremony marked a long-awaited recognition of Lowery’s legacy, complete with a ribbon cutting, speeches and a community photo opportunity.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in honoring his legacy and impact on youth baseball in our community! A special thank you to the Lowery Family and to representatives from Senator Niello and Representative Hoover’s offices for attending and helping make the day even more memorable.

Celebrate the Life of Cupcake the Donkey at a Special Memorial Event with CRPD

Posted on by Haley Waugh

The Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) invites the community to gather in remembrance of Cupcake, our community’s beloved donkey, on Saturday, August 23 at 10 a.m. at the Hagan Community Barn. This special memorial will honor Cupcake’s life and the joy he brought to so many. The event will include speeches, live music, crafts, a memory board and more.

The event is free and open to all. We invite you to bring your stories, photos and memories to share as we come together to honor a truly unforgettable community member.

 

Cupcake recently passed away due to age-related health issues. Before joining CRPD, Cupcake was a therapeutic riding donkey who brought joy to many. This April, he celebrated his 29th birthday. Cupcake loved “cookies” (carrots) from visitors, peaceful park walks though Hagan Community Park with Chris and greeting kids during Crafts with Cupcake.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who loved, visited and cared for Cupcake over the years. He will be dearly missed but his gentle spirit will always be part of our Barn’s story.

 

CRPD Celebrates Grand Opening of Exploration Park, the District’s 50th Park! 

Posted on by Haley Waugh

On June 28, 2025, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) and the community celebrated a significant milestone, the grand opening of Exploration Park, the District’s 50th park! The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a celebratory occasion featuring speeches from CRPD Board of Directors and staff, local dignitaries and the support of community members. 

Located at 12145 Hetch Hetchy Drive in Rancho Cordova, this 6-acre neighborhood park offers a space for the community to play, connect and explore. With its wide range of amenities like pickleball courts, half-basketball court, multi-use turf and shaded picnic areas, this park offers something for everyone. 

At the heart of the park is one of the largest and most imaginative playgrounds CRPD has installed in recent years. This park’s space exploration theme is reflected in its play areas, architectural elements, and landscaping, immersing visitors in an interactive and inspiring environment. The playground features a space-inspired structure complete with stars, planets and a slide that orbits through them. Thoughtful shade structures ensure that play can happen comfortably year-round. Adding to the park is an interactive, climbable art installation. 

 

This park and its elements were designed to celebrate the region’s rich aerospace history and the community’s contributions to rocket technology, including the Saturn V rocket. 

CRPD Board Chairperson Director Sloan said, “I’m so proud to have the honor of cutting the ribbon for the dedication of Exploration Park. It not only marks the 50th CRPD park but exemplifies the historic role Rancho Cordova played in the American Space Race, through the work of the Aerojet General Corporation. This park not only provides residents with recreation, but also education.”  

CRPD extends its heartfelt thanks to Cresleigh Homes, Sac Metro Fire and Tikiz Shaved Ice & Ice Cream for joining us in this celebration. 

 

CRPD honored with Distinguished Budget Presentation Award by The Government Finance Officers Association

Posted on by Haley Waugh
Members of the Cordova Recreation & Park District finance team pose with award. Photo: CRPD

Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) has been honored with the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the most recent qualifying year. This prestigious recognition highlights CRPD’s commitment to excellence in governmental budgeting and transparency. The award is a testament to the District’s success in producing budget documents that meet the highest standards of quality that reflect both the guidelines established by the National Advisory Council on State and Local Budgeting and the GFOA’s best practices on budgeting. To earn recognition, budget documents must meet program criteria and excel as a policy document, financial plan, operations guide and communication tool.

Matt Goodell, Chief Financial Officer at CRPD, presented the award at the June Board Meeting and said, “I want to proudly announce and present the Government Finance Officers Association Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for this past qualifying year. Approximately 1,800 governments, including states, cities, counties, special districts, school districts and more have been recognized for transparency in budgeting. CRPD is one of three park special districts in California to receive this award!”

Members of the Cordova Recreation & Park District Board of Directors and Cordova Recreation & Park District staff pose with award. Photo: CRPD

This remarkable achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of the CRPD team, and we are proud to be recognized for our commitment to transparency, accountability and excellence in public service.

The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), founded in 1906, represents public finance officials throughout the United States and Canada. The association’s more than 20,000 members are federal, state/provincial and local finance officials deeply involved in planning, financing and implementing thousands of governmental operations in each of their jurisdictions. GFOA’s mission is to advance excellence in public finance.

Learn more about the award and association at https://www.gfoa.org/budget-award.

 

California Association of Recreation and Park Districts Honors CRPD Team Members  

Posted on by Haley Waugh
Cordova Recreation & Park District staff and board members present award to Gregory Rubio. Photo: CRPD  

Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) team members were honored for their outstanding service to the district at the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts (CARPD) annual conference and awards banquet. 

CRPD Board Director Brian Danzl was recognized for his leadership and service to CARPD as President. As Chair of the 2025 Conference Committee, he led efforts that resulted in record-breaking sponsorship and attendance. He participated in the annual Capitol Visit to advocate for issues impacting parks and recreation and developed a Past President recognition program. Director Danzl also oversaw the “Resolution of Recognition Program” honoring long-time Board Members of districts throughout the state and oversaw a balanced budget year for the organization.  

Andrea White, CRPD’s Human Resources Manager, was honored as Outstanding District Employee of the Year. This award recognizes individuals whose exceptional contributions go above and beyond in service to their district. With over 17 years at CRPD, Andrea has consistently demonstrated strong leadership skills, teamwork and coaching techniques with her staff and co-workers. 

Gregory Rubio, of Boy Scout Troop 281, received an Outstanding Volunteer award for his Eagle Scout project – a memorial honoring the Tuskegee Airmen in CRPD’s Veterans Park. His work demonstrated extraordinary leadership, dedication to community enrichment and created a lasting tribute that fosters education, reflection and community pride. 

 

Cordova Recreation & Park District staff and board members post together after the recognition banquet. Photo: CRPD 

CARPD’s recognition of Director Danzl, Andrea and Gregory highlights the incredible impact that dedicated individuals can have on their communities. We’re so proud to see their achievements recognized and celebrate everything they’ve accomplished. 

The California Association of Recreation and Park Districts, CARPD, is a 501c(6), not-for-profit organization representing special recreation and park districts throughout California. CARPD has been dedicated to improving the quality and efficiency of recreation and park districts.  Learn more at https://www.caparkdistricts.org 

 

CRPD Staff Supports Families in Transition During Public Service Recognition Week 

Posted on by Haley Waugh

To celebrate Public Service Recognition Week, the Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) recently held our quarterly staff luncheon. Continuing the spirit of service to lift up those around us, CRPD also organized a donation drive to support the Folsom Cordova Unified School District’s (FCUSD) Families in Transition (FIT) Services program. This program provides vital resources to families who are facing economic hardships that have resulted in homelessness, food insecurity, health concerns, and a lack of resources. 

CRPD staff came together to collect essential hygiene and homecare items, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, feminine hygiene products, razors, deodorant, laundry detergent, dish soap, paper towels and toilet paper. Thanks to the generosity of staff, more than 400 items were donated to support families in need. 

This donation drive builds on CRPD’s ongoing commitment to giving back to the community. Earlier this year, staff raised over $1,400 for the FIT services program. CRPD looks forward to continuing our partnership with FCUSD and remaining dedicated to uplifting and supporting those we serve.  

Community members are encouraged to support the important work of the FIT Services program, which continues to welcome contributions. More information about the program is available at fcusd.org/educational-services/social-emotional-learning-sel-and-educational-equity/families-in-transition.   

 

CRPD Senior Resource Fair Draws Hundreds to Neil Orchard Senior Activities Center 

Posted on by Haley Waugh
Community members from the Senior Center Zumba Gold classes pose after performing at the Senior Resource Fair.

Over 250 community members came together for the Cordova Recreation and Park District (CRPD) annual Senior Resource Fair on April 30. The Neil Orchard Senior Activities Center walkways were filled with community members, informative booths, amazing entertainment and meaningful community connections. 

The event featured 60 local vendors who provided attendees with information on services and programs designed to support the health and well-being of the aging population. Vendors also offered giveaways, activities and conversations, allowing participants to engage directly with service providers. 

Community members visit booths at the Senior Resource Fair.

In addition to the informational offerings, participants were treated to live performances from the Senior Center Tai Chi and Zumba Gold classes. Attendees also enjoyed complimentary ice cream from Handel’s Ice Cream and a free taco truck lunch, available to all registered participants. 

This event was made possible by our incredible sponsors: Summerset Senior Living, Care Patrol, SDHC Pharmacy, Nurse Next Door, Your Elder Care, Home Care Professionals, Cordova Senior Activities Center Advisory Board, RC Healthcare, Bear Hollow Estates and Golden Pond. 

CRPD Celebrates Arbor Day with Tree Planting Ceremony! 

Posted on by Haley Waugh
CRPD staff and community members gather for an Arbor Day celebration to plant trees at Rosemont Community Park.

The Cordova Recreation and Park District (CRPD) was proud to celebrate another successful Arbor Day! CRPD staff, Board of Directors and community members gathered to plant trees at the Rosemont Community Park on April 26. 

The day began with a special recognition from Supervisor Pat Hume for CRPD’s outstanding efforts to environmental stewardship and community engagement through the celebration of Arbor Day. The Rosemont Community Association (RCA) was also recognized for their environmental stewardship through their successful Earth Day event. Together, CRPD and RCA have built an impactful partnership, working side by side to celebrate and enrich the community we share.  

CRPD staff and board members pose with a representative from the office of Supervisor Pat Hume after receiving a special recognition.

Arbor Day is a national holiday dedicated to celebrating and promoting the planting of trees. This year, we partnered with the Sacramento Tree Foundation and SMUD to plant 15 new trees throughout the Rosemont Community Park. These trees will not only add beauty to the space but also contribute to the sustainability and livability of our community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our partners for making this project possible. 

Community members pose together behind one of the 15 trees planted at the Rosemont Community Park.

Following the tree planting, CRPD joined the RCA Earth Day event to connect with residents and share valuable resources, programs, and upcoming events. It was a rewarding day of connecting with the community and collaborating to improve our environment, making our community a better place for all. 

Hop into spring with CRPD’s upcoming events! 

Posted on by Haley Waugh

Celebrate the Spring season with the Cordova Recreation & Park District’s (CRPD) upcoming events! Hosted in CRPD parks and facilities, these events invite the community to enjoy some quality fun outside with family and friends! 

Hoppin & Huntin’ at Hagan: Saturday, April 12 | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Hagan Community Park 

Children hunt for Easter Eggs while families cheer them on at Hoppin & Huntin’ in past years. Photo: CRPD 

Hop on over for an egg-stra special day of family fun! The annual Hoppin’ & Huntin’ at Hagan returns on April 12, bringing a day full of entertainment and activities for the whole family. 

The day will kick off with a delicious pancake breakfast sponsored by the Kiwani’s Club. Join the fun with a giant egg hunt on the grass or make a splash in the Cordova Community Pool with our aquatic floating egg hunt! Kids can also take on the hopstacle course or explore the Tot Lot, which features a special egg hunt and activities designed just for little ones ages 2 and under. 

Following the egg hunts, lucky kids can redeem golden tickets for prizes and everyone can visit booths and vendors, take photos with the Easter Bunny, enjoy entertainment from a live DJ and celebrate the spring season with the community. This event will be a blast for everybunny. We hope to see you there! 
 

Arbor Day Celebration: Saturday, April 26 | 9:30 a.m. | Rosemont Community Park 

CRPD staff celebrating at last year’s Arbor Day tree planting event. Photo: CRPD 

Growing our community one tree at a time! Join CRPD as we celebrate Arbor Day with a special tree planting ceremony. This year, we’re coming together to plant 15 new trees at the Rosemont Community Park, enhancing our community and creating a cleaner future for our residents.  

Trees play a vital role in our parks, providing oxygen, improving air quality, conserving water, preserving soil and supporting local wildlife. Beyond their environmental impact, they also create shaded spaces, freshen the air and add natural beauty for everyone to enjoy. 

As part of the celebration, enjoy a live tree care demonstration and learn tips for maintaining beautiful greenery around your home. After the ceremony, we’ll continue the celebration by joining the Rosemont Community Association’s Earth Day Event. We hope to see you there for a day of growth and celebration! 

An Egg-straordinary time with CRPD! 

Posted on by Haley Waugh

The weekend weather was perfect as thousands of people celebrated together at Cordova Recreation & Park District’s (CRPD) Hoppin’ & Huntin’ at Hagan event on Saturday, April 12! 

With what looked to be our largest crowd ever, community members enjoyed many activities such as free egg hunts, games, local vendors, live music and more! The day started with a delicious pancake breakfast provided by the Kiwani’s Club of Rancho Cordova and an appearance by the Easter bunny for photos with families! 

The day continued with egg hunts across Hagan Community Park and the Cordova Community Pool. Thousands of eggs were collected and lucky kids found golden tickets to win amazing prizes! 

A huge thank you to Music & More DJ Entertainment, Gold River Pediatric Dentistry, Kiwanis Club of Rancho Cordova and Rotary Club of Rancho Cordova for making this event an even greater success.  

To see future events and activities happening with CRPD, visit www.cordovarpd.gov.