Tag: Parks and Rec

CRPD General Manager Recognized for Commitment to Quality Governance

Posted on by Elena Burge

 

CRPD General Manager Patrick Larkin poses with Chairperson Brian Danzl (right) and Vice-Chairperson Rick Sloan (left after accepting his certificate at the California Special Districts Association Annual Conference in Indian Wells on September 10, 2024. Photo: CRPD 

INDIAN WELLS, CA – Cordova Recreation and Park District (CRPD) General Manager Patrick Larkin was recognized at the California Special Districts Association (CSDA) Annual Conference in Indian Wells for his commitment to the community following his completion of the Special District Leadership Academy. In recognition of his work towards improving the leadership capabilities of CRPD, Larkin was awarded the Special District Governance Certificate. 

Obtaining this certificate highlights Larkin’s commitment to CRPD, the community and special districts across the state. By seeking out this professional development opportunity, certificate recipients demonstrate a strong dedication to delivering the highest quality service to the community they represent. 

This program aims to equip members of special district leadership teams with key skills in areas such as community leadership, strategic planning, human resources management and financial accountability, along with other essential leadership competencies. In addition to completing the Special District Leadership Academy, Larkin fulfilled ten hours of continuing education to complete the program. 

The Special District Leadership Academy is supported by the CSDA and the Special District Leadership Foundation, reflecting their ongoing commitment to offering valuable development opportunities for California’s special district leadership. 

 

CRPD’s Lineup of September Celebrations! 

Posted on by Elena Burge

   

Community members walk through a bustling walkway at last year’s Doggie Day in the Park hosted by CRPD. Photo: CRPD 

As the summer winds down, the Cordova Recreation & Park District’s (CRPD) calendar is winding up! CRPD is hosting three annual events in September – Family Swim Night and Movie, Meet the Machines and Barktoberfest. Hosted in CRPD parks and facilities, these events invite the community to enjoy some quality fun outside with family and friends! 

Family Swim Night and Movie: Friday, September 6 | 4:30 – 9 p.m. | Cordova Community Pool and Hagan Community Park 

At this event, we’ll kick off the evening with a $1 family swim night at the Cordova Community Pool, where families can enjoy swimming and water games from 4:30 to 7 p.m. With local food and drink vendors on-site, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.  

After Family Swim Night, continue the fun at Hagan Community Park with a special outdoor screening of Disney’s Inside Out from 7 to 9 p.m. Spread out your blankets on the baseball field and settle in for a heartwarming movie experience under the stars. This event combines the best of summer evenings—community, entertainment and a bit of magic. We hope to see you there! 

Meet the Machines: Saturday, September 14 | 10 a.m. – Noon | Hagan Community Park 

Children pose with various machines featured at Meet the Machines in past years. Photo: CRPD 

This free event invites children of all ages to interact with a variety of exciting machines and unique vehicles at Hagan Community Park. Various industry professionals enrich this educational event, sharing their expertise on equipment and inspiring future generations of professionals. 

Last year’s event featured 25 machines, including large machinery, trucks and vehicles from various local industries. Children are invited to touch, climb, mount and admire machines ranging from dump trucks to fire engines and interact with the professionals who use them. 

This community event also features local vendors and organizations, making this the perfect event to explore many of the services and organizations Rancho has to offer. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to spark curiosity and celebrate the innovative spirit of our community. 

Barktoberfest: Saturday, September 21 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Lincoln Village Community Park/Pool 

Dogs and their owners can peruse the offerings of various vendors at this lively, dog-centric celebration. Photo: CRPD 

Grab your lederhosen and your leashes, because this September CRPD invites you and your pups to celebrate Barktoberfest with us at Lincoln Village Community Park. This exciting event is open to all ages, offering a day packed with fun activities, local dog-related vendors, music and delicious treats (for humans and canines alike). Vendor offerings will include dog toys, artisanal treats, pet accessories and information from local organizations. 

Pups can dive into the fun with a refreshing splash in the pool, dash through an exciting agility course or sniff out all the goodies at our vendor booths. Meanwhile, their humans can indulge in tasty food and beverages. And in true Oktoberfest fashion, The Local Bark, will be hosting a lively beer garden and food trucks will be serving up bratwursts!  

Raise a glass (or a paw) and join us for a day full of tail-wagging fun. 

 

CRPD Supplies a Success

Posted on by Elena Burge
 

Cordova Recreation & Park District and Folsom Cordova Unified School District staff stand with school supply donations for the Families in Transition Services program. Photo courtesy of Cordova Recreation & Park District

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) – This summer, the Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) continued their commitment to supporting the community through their Community Engagement Program.

Over the last few weeks, the Cordova Recreation & Park District Board of Directors and staff contributed donations to a school supply drive for the Folsom Cordova Unified School District’s (FCUSD) Families in Transition (FIT) Services program. More than 700 items were collected and included supplies such as calculators, binders, scissors, art supplies, notebooks and paper.

The Families in Transition Services program offers vital support to students and families facing challenges such as housing, food and healthcare insecurity. To ensure every student can start the school year prepared and focused on their academic success, the program provides essential supplies to those in need. In supporting this program, Cordova Recreation & Park District hopes to continue their commitment to community upliftment and youth empowerment.

“Here at CRPD, our staff focus on their professional strengths and in supporting Families in Transition and providing school supplies to students in FCUSD, we are excited to support our youth in the community to focus on growing their strengths, rather than focusing on where their school supplies or resources are coming from,” said Cordova Recreation and Park District General Manager Patrick Larkin. “We fully support this program, and we are committed to fostering this partnership with FCUSD throughout the year.”

Though the Families in Transition Services program accepts school supplies, monetary donations also allow the program to better support the community and continue to provide an essential array of resources to families in need. To learn more about the program or donate, visit www.fcusd.org/educational-services/social-emotional-learning-sel-and-educational-equity/families-in-transition.

CRPD board of directors

 Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) Board of Directors and staff pose with school supply donations for the Folsom Cordova Unified School District’s Families in Transition Services program. Photo courtesy of Cordova Recreation & Park District

 

Paul Hagan Remembered for Outstanding Service

Posted on by Elena Burge
 
 

Cordova Recreation & Park District Directors and staff pose alongside Julie Hagan Belka, accepting the Partnership for Quality Living Hall of Honor award on behalf of her late grandfather, Paul Hagan, at the Cordova Recreation & Park District July 17 board meeting. Neil Orchard, Cordova Recreation & Park District’s longest-serving district administrator, also attended with his wife, Rosealiê Orchard. Photo courtesy of Cordova Recreation & Park District

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) – Former Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) District Administrator Paul Hagan was recognized posthumously for his outstanding contributions to recreation, leisure and wellness within the Rancho Cordova community at the Cordova Recreation & Park District July 17 board meeting.

His award was presented by Wayne Lowery, former El Dorado Hills Community Services District general manager on behalf of the Partnership for Quality Living (PQL). The prestigious award was accepted on his behalf by Hagan’s granddaughter, Julie Hagan Belka.

Best known as the namesake of Rancho Cordova’s beloved Hagan Community Park, Hagan was Cordova Recreation & Park District’s first district administrator from 1960 to 1985. During his tenure, Hagan worked to significantly expand the acquisition and development of parks and recreation facilities throughout Rancho Cordova, developing 21 parks and recreation facilities under his leadership.

Besides his Rancho Cordova work, Hagan was engaged in the broader development of the parks and recreation industry as an active member of the National Recreation and Park Association and the California Park & Recreation Society for more than 20 years.

Among his many accomplishments, Hagan contributed to developing a nation-wide model for joint land usage between school districts and parks administrations, advocated for bringing nationally-recognized events to Rancho Cordova and received numerous awards for his dedication, including Rotary International’s highest award.

Hagan’s dedication to the Parks and Recreation industry was apparent throughout his life and even after his passing, his legacy continues to be worthy of recognition and celebration.

The Partnership for Quality Living Hall of Honor recognizes historical contributions of individuals in the development of leisure, recreation and parks services. In recognizing individuals such as Hagan, the Partnership for Quality Living hopes to chronicle influential developments in the field, further encouraging and celebrating future engagement and progress.

The Partnership for Quality Living recognizes recreation, parks and leisure as essential to promoting and maintaining a high quality of life for communities and their residents by enhancing public health and wellness.

 

CRPD Board Recognized for Commitment to Leadership

Posted on by Elena Burge
 
 

CRPD Directors, Mark Matus (left) and Daniel Langan (right), accept their certificates at the CRPD Regular Board meeting on June 19, 2024. Photo courtesy of CRPD

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) – Cordova Recreation and Park District (CRPD) Board Members Daniel Langan and Mark Matus were recognized at the CRPD Regular Board meeting on June 19 for their commitment to the community following their completion of the Special District Leadership Academy.

Earning this certificate demonstrates their commitment to CRPD, their constituents and their fellow special districts throughout the state. In pursuing this opportunity for professional development, Langan and Matus show a dedication to providing the best possible service to the community they serve.

This program seeks to provide members of special district leadership teams with skills in community leadership, direction setting, human resources management and fiscal accountability, among other essential leadership skills. Langan and Matus attended a three-day conference and completed ten hours of continuing education to complete the program.

The California Special Districts Association and the Special District Leadership Foundation support the Special District Leadership Academy as part of their continued commitment to providing quality development opportunities to California Board Members.

 

Rosemont Community Foundation Receives Award of Recognition

Posted on by Elena Burge
 

Members of the Rosemont Community Foundation pose alongside Cordova Recreation and Park District Directors and staff after accepting their award of recognition at the Cordova Recreation and Park District’s regular board meeting on June 19. Photo courtesy of Cordova Recreation and Park District

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) – During the Cordova Recreation and Park District’s board meeting on June 19, the Rosemont Community Foundation was presented with an award of recognition from the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts for the Rosemont Community Poles Project.

The Rosemont Community Foundation was honored with the Outstanding Community Organization/Partner Award by the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts at their conference in May, where they were recognized for their outstanding commitment to fostering community through a community beautification project. Kathy Gee, community advocate and board director, accepted the award on behalf of the Rosemont Community Foundation.

Cordova Recreation and Park District board members, staff and Kathy Gee celebrate the installation of the Rosemont Community Poles Project. Photo courtesy of Cordova Recreation and Park District

The Rosemont Community Poles Project was an effort by the community to improve the Rosemont community through the addition of art that reflected their community’s values. Gee brought the idea to Cordova Recreation and Park District, suggesting that four poles, decorated by community organizations to capture the spirit of the Rosemont Community, be installed in the newly-refurbished butterfly garden in the Cordova Recreation and Park District’s Rosemont Community Park.

Once Gee received a grant from SMUD for the project, the Rosemont Community Foundation worked in collaboration with Cordova Recreation and Park District to install the project. You can now see community poles from Cordova Recreation and Park District, Girl Scout Troop 1363, Golden Pond Senior Living and Atonement Lutheran Church in Rosemont Community Park.  Each pole is distinctive, painted with symbols, pictures and words that reflect the values of the Rosemont community and its residents.

As the project’s dedication ceremony was fast approaching, the project experienced a major setback. The hand-painted poles had been nearly covered in black spray paint, appearing to ruin the hours of hard work the community had put into the project. In an act of resilience, Cordova Recreation and Park District staff acted quickly, using specialized graffiti removal supplies to nearly return the artwork to its original condition. Their efforts allowed the Rosemont Community Foundation to proceed with the project’s dedication ceremony as planned.

Since the project’s initial installation, the community is set to add more poles, with several similar projects in the works throughout the community. This award celebrates the spirit that inspired this project and its positive influence on the community.

Readers can catch up on Cordova Recreation and Park District’s newest projects and developments at www.cordovarpd.gov. 

 

Gold Rush Park Opens

Posted on by Elena Burge
 

Cordova Recreation & Park District Board of Directors, staff and community cut the ribbon to officially open Gold Rush Park. Photo courtesy of Cordova Recreation & Park District

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) – Coinciding with the turn of the season, the Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) recently gathered to celebrate the opening of their newest park, Gold Rush Park.

Located in the Rio Del Oro development area, the 5.1-acre park pays tribute to the California Gold Rush, the historical event that brought Rancho Cordova into being. The community came together to recognize the park’s opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by local dignitaries and punctuated by speeches from committed Cordova Recreation & Park District staff members.

The festivities kept rolling after the ceremony with a Family Fun Day provided by local developer Elliot Homes. This event invited local families to explore the new park, complimented by delicious food offerings, lively lawn games and a variety of engaging activities. Rancho Cordova Chamber of Commerce provided resources for the community and Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District brought a fire engine for kids to explore.

Located at 11556 Lagarto Way in Rancho Cordova, nestled in a neighborhood beside White Rock Road, Gold Rush Park is the newest of 46 parks owned and operated by the Cordova Recreation & Park District. In line with the park’s namesake, mine-themed elements decorate the playground, surrounded by snaking pathways and drought tolerant native plants.

mine California Gold Rush

 Mine themed playground elements pay homage to the California Gold Rush. Photo courtesy of Cordova Recreation & Park District

Even in the summer sun, the park’s covered picnic area and play structure provide ample shade for a lovely day in the park. Park-goers can utilize the many amenities to make the most of their day – whether they are playing soccer on the multi-use field or engaging in a riveting chess match on the concrete chess tables.

“Gold Rush Park is the first neighborhood park to be constructed in the Rio del Oro development area. Rio del Oro will bring approximately 32,000 new residents that need parkland and will ultimately include 10 neighborhood parks varying in size and one large community park,” said Patrick Larkin, Cordova Recreation & Park District General Manager. “We believe that all residents within the district deserve to have a public park within walking distance that includes places for play, for recreation and for the community to gather.”

Readers can catch up on Cordova Recreation & Park District newest developments and happenings at www.cordovarpd.gov

 

Rosemont Community Park Sport Courts Complete!

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

Cordova Recreation & Park District Board of Directors, staff and community members celebrate the completion of the Rosemont Community Park Sport Courts Project. Photo: CRPD

On May 16, 2024, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) and the community celebrated the successful completion of Rosemont Community Park Sport Courts Project (project)!

The community’s input, feedback and unwavering support have been instrumental in shaping this project every step of the way. Leading up to submittal of grant applications for this project back in 2020, CRPD attended multiple meetings in the community including the Rosemont Community Association, the Rosemont Friday Night Food Truck Events in the summer and the Annual Rosemont Community Celebration where we solicited direct feedback through online surveys.

After this extensive outreach process, CRPD discovered that the neighbors of Rosemont were in support of renovating the existing tennis courts and providing more amenities for teens such as pickleball and basketball. From the initial planning stages to the final design, the community’s vision has guided CRPD and made this project truly community-driven.

This project has been nothing short of transformative. What once stood as four tennis courts has now been reborn into a dynamic multi-sport court facility that includes one basketball court, two pickleball courts and two tennis courts.

The total project costs including design was approximately $615,000.  The Federal Community Development Block Grant Funds (CDBG), administered by the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency (SHRA) contributed $165,630. The American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) funds administered by Sacramento County contributed $250,000 and CRPD’s MyParks Enhancement Fund (Measure J) contributed the remainder of around $200,000.

It is through these vital sources of funding that CRPD has been able to turn the community’s dreams into reality, creating a space that will enrich the lives of community members for years to come.

CRPD looks forward to the countless memories and experiences that will be created at the new sport courts!

Enjoy Rosemont Community Park’s new sport courts at 9326 Americana Way, Sacramento, CA 95826. For more information, visit cordovarpd.gov.

 
CRPD Board of Directors and staff with District Director Mark Cullum with Assemblyman Josh Hoover’s office recognizing the Rosemont Community Park Sport Courts Project completion. Photo: CRPD

CRPD Celebrates Champion of the Community

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

CRPD Board of Directors and staff with Champion of the Community Gianni Chauppette and his family. Photo: CRPD
CRPD Board of Directors and staff with Champion of the Community Gianni Chauppette and his family. Photo: CRPD

On March 13, 2024, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) joined the California Park & Recreation Society (CPRS) District 2 at their Awards & Installation Banquet where local park and recreation agencies came together to recognize outstanding agencies and professionals and install the 2024-2025 District 2 Board Members.

Combining his passion for nature and dedication to scouting, Chauppette proposed a unique project that would enhance visitors’ connection with the surrounding environment. As part of his project, he was able to raise nearly $11,000 thanks to contributions from 60 generous community members and CRPD.

In June of 2023, Gianni worked closely with CRPD to research and install an ADA-accessible binocular post overlooking the neighboring wetland preserve at Heron Landing Community Park. Nature enthusiasts can now easily get a close look at the local wildlife that call our region home. Visit the Heron Landing Community Park at 11750 Justinian Drive, Rancho Cordova to check it out! To learn more about this project, visit bit.ly/CRPDbinoculars.

During the installment of the new CPRS District 2 Board Members, CRPD Recreation Supervisor Nina Sinor was appointed as the President Elect, CRPD Recreation Supervisor Nicole Lowery was appointed as Treasurer and CRPD Recreation Supervisor Heather Schelske was appointed as the Aging Section Representative.

CRPD was proud to be a part of the CPRS District 2 awards banquet where park and recreation professionals came together to celebrate one another and the outstanding work throughout the previous year.

From the left: CRPD Recreation Supervisors Heather Schelske, Nina Sinor and Nicole Lowery. Photo: CRPD
From the left: CRPD Recreation Supervisors Heather Schelske, Nina Sinor and Nicole Lowery. Photo: CRPD
Champion of the Community Gianni Chauppette. Photo: CRPD
 
Champion of the Community Gianni Chauppette. Photo: CRPD

CRPD Arbor Day Tree Planting

Posted on by CRPD Communications


CRPD Board of Directors, staff and community members gathered to plant trees at Dave Roberts Community Park for an early Arbor Day celebration. Photo: CRPD
The Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) is excited to once again celebrate National Arbor Day! CRPD Board of Directors, staff and community members gathered to plant trees for an early Arbor Day celebration on the sunny Saturday morning of February 24, 2024.
 
The first Arbor Day took place in Nebraska in 1872 with an estimate of more than one million trees planted. By 1920, more than 45 states celebrated Arbor Day and tree planting became tradition across the nation. This year, CRPD partnered with the Sacramento Tree Foundation, SMUD and the City of Rancho Cordova to plant 24 trees at Dave Roberts Community Park in recognition of the vital role trees play in improving the livability and sustainably of our community, neighborhoods, parks and open spaces.
 
CRPD strives to improve the variety of tree species throughout our parks. Five different tree species were chosen for Dave Roberts Community Park: Incense Cedar, Eastern Redbud, Valley Oak, Interior Live Oak and Red Maple. These trees are a part of the Sacramento Tree Foundation’s Shady 80 list which is a list of the best trees for the Sacramento region and will thrive in our climate and soil. For additional information, visit sactree.org/best-trees-for-sacramento/. Trees contribute to their environment by providing oxygen, improving air quality, conserving water, preserving soil and supporting wildlife.
 
CRPD is proud to collaborate with the Sacramento Tree Foundation, SMUD and the City of Rancho Cordova to benefit the community through healthy, vibrant trees.
 
Stay informed on upcoming events and and more at CRPD’s website at www.cordovarpd.gov.
 
Sacramento Tree Foundation providing tree planting demonstration. Photo: CRPD
Sacramento Tree Foundation providing tree planting demonstration. Photo: CRPD
 
From the left: City of Rancho Cordova (City) Community Engagement Coordinator Matt Buland, CRPD General Manager Patrick Larkin, CRPD Board of Directors Chairperson Brian Danzl and Director Mark Matus, CRPD Director of Parks and Recreation Jill Nunes and City Arborist Lori Murphy with CRPD Arbor Day Resolution and City Arbor Day Proclamation. Photo: CRPD
From the left: City of Rancho Cordova (City) Community Engagement Coordinator Matt Buland, CRPD General Manager Patrick Larkin, CRPD Board of Directors Chairperson Brian Danzl and Director Mark Matus, CRPD Director of Parks and Recreation Jill Nunes and City Arborist Lori Murphy with CRPD Arbor Day Resolution and City Arbor Day Proclamation. Photo: CRPD
 

Cold for a Cause!

Posted on by CRPD Communications

CRPD Board of Directors, staff and community members take the plunge to raise funds! Photos: CRPD

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) recently hosted its annual Polar Bear Plunge event! Supported by the Cordova Recreation & Parks Foundation (CRPF), this event brought together residents of all ages for a refreshing and invigorating dip into a freezing cold pool to raise funds for the CRPF Fee Assistance Program, Cordova Blue Marlins Swim Team Parent Board and the Cordova Cordettes Synchronized Swim Team Parent Board.

Held at the Cordova Community Pool on the brisk morning of January 13, the event attracted enthusiastic participants who were eager to kick off 2024 with a splash – literally! Adorned in creative and festive attire, attendees embraced the winter chill as they gathered around the poolside, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter and camaraderie. The anticipation built as plungers prepared to brave the icy waters, all in the name of charity.

As the countdown commenced, cheers erupted from the crowd, and the brave participants took the plunge, immersing themselves in the freezing cold pool. The event not only provided a memorable experience for those taking part but also served as a reminder of the community’s ability to come together for a good cause.

The Polar Bear Plunge showcased CRPD’s commitment to both fun and philanthropy. Prior to the event, plungers collected donations from friends and family in support of the CRPF Fee Assistance Program, Cordova Blue Marlins Swim Team Parent Board and the Cordova Cordettes Synchronized Swim Team Parent Board. Together, over $3,000 was raised in support of the community!

In the end, the event proved to be a success, not just in terms of the funds raised but also in creating lasting memories for everyone in attendance. The Polar Bear Plunge stands as a shining example of how a little frosty water can go a long way in bringing people together for a common purpose.

Join us for our next community event, Hoppin’ & Huntin’ at Hagan on Saturday, March 23 at Hagan Community Park! For more information on this event and all other recreation programs, classes and activities, please visit our website at www.cordovarpd.gov.

 

A New Look at Nature: Eagle Project Brings Sightseeing Opportunity to Heron Landing Community Park

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

There’s a new attraction at Heron Landing Community Park, and it’s all thanks to a remarkable Eagle Scout project undertaken by a passionate young scout. With the installation of a brand-new binocular post, park-goers can now marvel at the diverse and vibrant wildlife thriving in the neighboring wetland preserve.

The Boy Scouts of America have long emphasized the importance of environmental stewardship and conservation. Scouts are encouraged to take an active role in their communities, particularly through their Eagle Scout projects. These projects serve as a platform for scouts to demonstrate leadership skills while making a positive impact on their surroundings.

Enter young scout, Gianni Chauppette, an aspiring environmentalist and nature enthusiast from Troop 363 who recognized the potential for wildlife observation at Heron Landing Community Park. Combining his passion for nature and dedication to scouting, Gianni proposed a unique project that would enhance visitors’ connection with the surrounding environment. As part of his project, he was able to raise nearly $11,000 thanks to contributions from 60 generous community members and Cordova Recreation & Park District.

After thorough research and coordination with park authorities, Gianni led the installation of a pair of ADA-compliant stationary binoculars at a strategic location within Heron Landing Community Park. The binoculars provide park-goers of all abilities with a closer look at the fascinating wildlife inhabiting the adjacent wetland preserve, fostering a deeper appreciation for the delicate ecosystem.

By providing park visitors with access to nature viewing, Gianni has encouraged a greater connection with the environment, sparking curiosity and promoting conservation values. The increased understanding and appreciation for the wetland ecosystem fostered by this project can inspire individuals to take further action to protect and preserve natural habitats.

This new installation at Heron Landing Community Park stands as a testament to Gianni’s dedication and commitment to environmental conservation. His project serves as a lasting feature that will benefit both current and future generations of park visitors. It also serves as an inspiration to other scouts and community members, showcasing the potential for impactful projects that benefit local ecosystems and communities. Gianni’s achievement serves as a shining example of how one individual, driven by passion and commitment, can make a lasting positive impact on their community and the environment.

 

Freezin’ for a Reason!

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

In the spirit of the New Year, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) welcomed over 30 community members to the Cordova Community Pool for the Cordova Recreation & Parks Foundation’s (CRPF) Annual Polar Bear Plunge on January 14, 2023. And, what a blast it was! Despite the cold, everyone was in high spirits while they enjoyed the pool, breakfast and comradery in the brisk January air.

 

A very special congratulations to our top fundraiser, Morgan Smith, who raised over $170 in support of the Cordova Cordettes Synchronized Swim Team Parent Board!

CRPD had a wonderful time braving the cold with the community and will be hosting many more fun-filled community events soon. Keep an eye out for a brand-new event, Creek Week Clean-Up on Saturday, March 11. Stay tuned at www.crpd.com for event updates!

This event was brought to the community by Cordova Recreation & Parks Foundation and sponsored by Rancho Cordova FiberCity.

 

CRPD Staff Donates to Unhoused Students

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) staff and Folsom Cordova Unified School District (FCUSD) staff with donations for Homeless Student Services. From left to right: CRPD CFO Matt Goodell, FCUSD Social Emotional Learning & Equity Director Dr. Iyuanna Pease, CRPD HR Manager Andrea White.

 
Our Community Engagement Program is underway! The Community Engagement Program, spearheaded by CRPD General Manager Patrick Larkin, is a quarterly program that focuses on giving back to the community.
 
During this year’s fall quarter, we collaborated with the Folsom Cordova Unified School District (FCUSD) Families in Transition (F.I.T) Program to provide donations to students in need. FCUSD F.I.T. program helps ensure children have an equal opportunity to obtain a high-quality education and provides resources to their families. Throughout the quarter, CRPD staff and Board of Directors contributed Target gift cards to be used for shoes, clothing and other essentials. On December 16, 2022, CRPD Chief Financial Officer Matt Goodell and Human Resources Manager Andrea White proudly presented FCUSD with donations totaling $1,420.
 
“I’m proud of our generous and caring CRPD staff for their continued support for the unhoused students in Rancho Cordova. Many of the CRPD staff are residents of Rancho Cordova so this opportunity to work with FCUSD for the students in need has special meaning,” said Larkin. “We look forward to more opportunities to work in partnership with FCUSD to make the community stronger and to meet the needs of our most vulnerable youth.”
 
CRPD is proud to collaborate with FCUSD Families in Transition Program to help support local students.
 
“FCUSD appreciates the generosity and strong partnership we share with the staff at CRPD,” shared FCUSD Social Emotional Learning & Equity Director Dr. Iyuanna Pease.
 

Doggie Day in the Park is Back!

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

We are so happy to have welcomed back your four-legged friends to Hagan Community Park!

A community member and his dogs pose with Animal Services at the free veterinary clinic. Photo: CRPD

On Saturday September 17, 2022, our community brought their furriest family members to Hagan Community Dog Park for a morning filled with exciting vendors, raffle prizes and a free veterinary clinic hosted by the City of Rancho Cordova.

Families completed their vendor passport for the chance to win fabulous raffle prizes, while their pets enjoyed free treats and received their microchips and vaccines from the clinic. Inside the dog park, excited dogs ran and played with each other in the beautiful, wide-open space.

We had a wonderful time meeting your pets, and we’ll be hosting many more fun-filled community events soon. Keep an eye out for Halloween at Hagan hosted at the Hagan Community Center on October 29. For more information, visit our website at www.crpd.com.

Thank you to our sponsor Incredible Pets for supporting this community event!

#ParkSpotlight – Ahlstrom Park!

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

We love acknowledging and highlighting our beautiful parks every chance we get! What better way to do so than by creating a monthly #ParkSpotlight?! Tune in every month to learn about one of our many District parks including amenities and the park’s history. And of course, if you have yet to visit our highlighted park for the month, we hope you take some time to enjoy its beauty! For August’s #ParkSpotlight, we would like to highlight Ahlstrom Park! Ahlstrom Park is a seven-acre park site with a partially shaded playground and picnic areas. The park includes a little league Baseball field fully equipped to host a game, along with a nice spot to have a BBQ with friends and loved ones. The little league baseball field and base set are available for rentals.

Ahlstrom Park has undergone renovations to improve the picnic areas, playground, drinking fountain, seating areas and sidewalks. Have you had the chance to visit Ahlstrom Park? If not, we encourage you to spend some time outdoors and have a relaxing picnic! For more information about our parks, we encourage you to visit our website at cordovarpd.gov.

Back to School with CRPD!

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

Our Community Engagement Program continues with Back to School donations!

The Community Engagement Program, led by our General Manager Patrick Larkin, is a quarterly program that focuses on giving back to the community.

“I’m proud of our generous and caring CRPD staff for their continued support for the unhoused students in our community. Many of the CRPD staff are residents of Rancho Cordova so this opportunity to work with FCUSD for the students in need has special meaning,” said Larkin. “We look forward to more opportunities to work in partnership with FCUSD to make the community stronger and to meet the needs of our most vulnerable youth.”

This quarter, we collaborated with the Folsom Cordova Unified School District (FCUSD) to collect school supplies to build Back to School bags for students in need. Throughout the months of April to June, our staff contributed various Back to School supplies including backpacks, notebooks, binders and more. On July 21, 2022, we presented FCUSD with over 500 supplies of Back to School items for students. “Folsom Cordova Unified School District is grateful for the generous donation of school supplies from Cordova Recreation & Park District employees,” said Education Services Liaison Marjorie Diaz. “Your partnership is key in order to support the needs of students experiencing homelessness. With these school supplies the kids in our program will be ready for the first day of school and looking forward to a successful school year.” We are so proud to collaborate with FCUSD to help support local students!

 

Congrats to Kristy – The CRPF Photo Contest Winner!

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

Cordova Recreation & Parks Foundation (CRPF) has announced their first ever photography contest winner!

During the month of May and June, CRPF encouraged community members to enter their first ever #CommunityPotlight #PhotographyContest. Members of the community submitted photos they felt represented the beauty of our diverse community. These entries could have been of people playing at any of our 43+ parks, engaging in any of our classes and programs or playing at the Cordova Golf Course.

 

After much deliberation, CRPF is excited to announce that Kristy is the winner of the contest! Kristy has received a $50 Cordova Recreation & Park District gift card. Moreover, Kristy’s submission is now the cover of our Fall/Winter 2022-2023 Recreation Guide! When asked about the submission process, Kristy stated, “My son has been playing soccer through the Rancho Cordova Soccer Club for the past few years. [My son] has learned so much about teamwork and good sportsmanship by being on a team. After each game, the parents come together to make a cheer tunnel. No matter how tired the kids were during the game, or how many boo-boos and tears occurred on the field, the kids immediately became happy and felt proud of themselves whenever they ran through the cheer tunnel”. Congratulations again Kristy and thank you to everyone who participated in the contest! Be sure to be on the lookout for the next #CommunitySpotlight #PhotographyContest!

 

 

Party in the Park Returns!

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

With the return of several entertaining activities, we held our annual Party in the Park event once again!

On July 15, 2022, we welcomed families to attend this engaging, community-oriented event. Over 1,000 people attended the event and participated in an assortment of activities including an inflatable slide, a Kid’s Zone full of games, and music from Music & More Entertainment. Community members danced their heart out at the silent disco and visited over 20 local vendors and community programs. West Coast Taco Bar, Beach Hut Deli, Jojo’s Hawaiian Fried Chicken and Cowtown Creamery had food and dessert available for purchase for anyone who worked up an appetite.

One lucky winner was also drawn to receive the overflowing “Booze Wagon” from the Cordova Recreation & Parks Foundation. The “Booze Wagon” Fundraiser raised over $2,000 and will help support families in need and allow them to participate in community recreation and enrichment programs. We will be offering many more fun and exciting events throughout the year. Keep your eyes out for Doggie Day in the Park being held on September 17 at Hagan Community Park. For more information, visit our website at www.cordovarpd.gov.

A Party You Won’t Want to Miss – Party in the Park!

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

We excitedly invite you to Party in the Park at Heron Landing! This annual, family-friendly event will be held on Friday, July 15 from 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at Heron Landing Community Park located at 11750 Justinian Drive in Rancho Cordova.

This FREE event will help you combat those end of summer blues with a day full of giveaways, music and community bonding. There will be a Kid’s Zone full of games, great food including Cowtown Creamery, West Coast Tacos, Beach Hut and more! Did we mention the splash park will be open? Party in the Park is one you won’t want to miss!

To learn more about this event, please visit  https://bit.ly/3MBsyva.

A big thank you to our sponsors Music & More DJ Entertainment, Cowtown Creamery, Beach Hut Deli and West Coast Taco Bar for supporting this wonderful community event!

 

First Ever Community Spotlight Photography Contest!

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

Cordova Recreation & Parks Foundation is excited to announce their first ever photography contest!

For the first time ever, the community has an opportunity to show the Cordova Recreation & Parks Foundation their skills in photography as it relates to parks, recreation and/or golf! The Foundation is looking for submissions that capture the beauty of our community diversity within Sacramento County*. This could be of people playing at any of the 43 parks, engaging in the many arts and sports programs offered by us, the Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD), or even of individuals playing at the Cordova Golf Course.

Graphic of Photography Contest

Submissions have been open since the beginning of June and the contest has created a positive community buzz!

The Details:

  • Deadline: Saturday, June 25

  • Up to 3 photos can be submitted per individual

  • Submission Page: Please submit via GoogleForms

What’s even more exciting? The selected winner of the Community Spotlight Photography Contest will receive a $50 gift card to any of our CRPD’s programs AND have their selected submission be featured as the cover of our upcoming Fall/Winter 2022-2023 Recreation Guide!

So don’t wait! Submit your photos today! For additional information about submission guidelines, visit the Cordova Recreation & Parks Foundation’s website. *Sacramento County includes the City of Rancho Cordova and the communities of Gold River, Larchmont, Mather, Riviera East and Rosemont East and additional incorporated communities within Sacramento County.

 

Outstanding Employee of the Year!

Posted on by Shelby Golden

 

We are proud to announce that our very own Director of Parks & Recreation Jill Nunes has been awarded the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts (CARPD) Outstanding District Employee Award. The award was presented during the CARPD Annual Conference on May 19, 2022.

Jill consistently demonstrates strong leadership skills, teamwork and her approach to coaching her staff and addressing issues and processes is thorough, thoughtful, respectful and professional. She has been instrumental in addressing challenges during COVID restrictions regarding concerns with Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) systems and staff and looking for ways to improve the conditions. She is very passionate about the parks and recreation field which is demonstrated through her numerous accomplishments.
 
Jill has been a champion for change management which has been a key for success. She has led staff through numerous COVID restrictions and protected staff from potential lay-offs due to limited to no programs by having the full time Recreation staff be direct service providers, creating new programs and producing a Virtual Recreation Guide. She created a work team that communicates well through diverse and challenging work assignments. Jill is excellent at providing tools and resources to her staff for them to work efficiently, smarter and to achieve their goals. Specifically, she has trained staff on expectations to evaluate existing programs and to add new programs to fill service gaps, especially during the challenging years of the pandemic. She is also connecting staff from multiple departments to make cohesive decisions so there is a District-wide point of view on critical capital improvement projects.
 
In addition, Jill has been the leader of the District Fee Schedule and updates to the CRPD Board of Directors (Board). She developed and presented the District Fee Schedule program to the Board for their approval, which demonstrated her ability to initiate a process and see it to completion. Jill also presents monthly reports to the Board to discuss department highlights and great services provided by staff.
 
The Cordova Golf Course is one of these highlights. The improvements at the golf course, along with new leadership, has yielded remarkable results. “An exceptional leader, Jill perseveres under pressure and articulates a clear vision for success – going above and beyond in service to the District. I consider myself fortunate to be a part of her vision to imbue an aging golf course with new life and vitality, for future generations to enjoy,” said Cordova Golf Course Manager Chase Michelotti. “Daily, Jill works to empower CRPD’s vision, and embraces the mission to serve the needs of a diverse and growing community.” Due to the new management approach and practices, revenue is at an all-time high and customers are feeling a sense of belonging and care.
 
Jill has proved how valuable building connections and relationships are to the success of CRPD. She has done an exemplary job learning about the parks maintenance, facility maintenance and management needs of CRPD. To gain perspective into the Park Department, Jill worked full days with each division within the Parks Department. The experience was beneficial as she learned about our dedicated staff and how hard they work each day to keep CRPD parks beautiful. Jill enjoyed gaining insight into their needs and obstacles which has helped her give the Parks Department the support they need and deserve. Through this, Jill has earned ample respect and admiration from the Parks staff, leadership team and the Board. She will continue to learn the Parks team needs, look for ways to advocate and support those needs in the budget and help prioritize projects considering limited resources.
 
Jill has also formed strong relationships with partners and stakeholders. Her confidence and professional approach enable her to connect with a diverse, and sometimes challenging, audience. She continues to strengthen her relationships with agencies including counties, cities, tourism agencies, school districts and neighborhood associations. She has written and received Board approval for Joint Use Agreements with multiple school districts. Jill continually strives to be the best listener in the group or meeting while maintaining an openness to the content of the communication.
 
“I really appreciate Jill’s strong work ethic, honesty, real approach to work and support for new directions,” said General Manager Patrick Larkin. “She has set the tone with professionalism and openness to change. Jill is an irreplaceable asset and a talented leader. “

Congratulations, Jill!

 

Root for Arbor Day!

Posted on by Shelby Golden
 
Cordova Recreation & Park District Board of Directors and staff celebrate National Arbor Day by planting trees at Prospect Hill Park. Photo: CRPD

We are excited to once again celebrate National Arbor Day! The first Arbor Day took place in Nebraska in 1872 with an estimate of more than one million trees planted. By 1920, more than 45 states celebrated Arbor Day and tree planting became tradition across the nation. This year, we partnered with the Sacramento Tree Foundation and SMUD to plant four trees at Prospect Hill Park in recognition of the vital role trees play in improving the livability and sustainably of our community, neighborhoods, parks and open spaces.

We strive to improve the variety of tree species throughout our parks. Three different tree species were chosen for Prospect Hill Park: Tupelo, Northern Red Oak and Gingko ‘Autumn Gold’. Tupelos are adaptive to varying soil climates such as droughts and flooding. During the spring and summer, these trees are a vibrant green and transform to a beautiful scarlet red in autumn. Northern Red Oaks provide abundant shade and acorns from this tree are a food preference for local wildlife including blue jays and wild turkeys. Gingko ‘Autumn Gold’s have unique fan-shaped leaves and turn a stunning deep yellow during autumn. Trees contribute to their environment by providing oxygen, improving air quality, conserving water, preserving soil and supporting wildlife.

We are proud to collaborate with the Sacramento Tree Foundation and SMUD to benefit the community through healthy, vibrant trees!

 

Springtime Egg-cellence!

Posted on by Shelby Golden
Kids with face paint enjoying meeting the Spring Bunny and Chick at Cordova Recreation & Park District’s (CRPD) Hoppin’ & Huntin’ at Hagan event. Photo: CRPD
Kids with face paint enjoying meeting the Spring Bunny and Chick at Cordova Recreation & Park District’s (CRPD) Hoppin’ & Huntin’ at Hagan event. Photo: CRPD

We held our annual, family-friendly Hoppin’ & Huntin’ at Hagan event on Saturday, April 9, 2022. Over 500 people attended the event and participated in an assortment of activities including free egg hunts, Tot Lot, Kid Zone, music and more! Kids also had the opportunity to get their picture taken with the Spring Bunny and Chick!

Free egg hunts featured over 12,000 eggs filled with goodies. Kids were overjoyed as they searched the grass for eggs, hoping to find the elusive golden egg hidden among the rest. Once they found a golden egg, they could exchange it for a special prize! Those too young to participate in the egg hunts headed over to our Tot Lot which featured continuous egg hunts. Tots could then trade in their eggs for a goodie bag.

Over in the Kids Zone, kids tested their agility by skipping and hopping through the Mather Sports Complex’s Hopstacle course and perfected their coordination with carnival games and Cordova Golf Course’s putt putt activity. In between egg hunts, attendees visited the vendors area to enjoy treats from Kona Ice, have a book read to them at the Cordova Kiwanis Book Buddies booth or grab a special goodie bag from the Cordova Senior Advisory Board.

A big thank you to our sponsors Music & More DJ Entertainment, Rancho Cordova Rotary Club, California American Water, Summerset Senior Living and the Kiwanis Club of Rancho Cordova for supporting this wonderful community event!

 

CRPD Receives Award for Cordova Community Pool

Posted on by Shelby Golden
 
From the left, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) Board Members; Director Rick Sloan, Vice-Chairperson Inez Reyes, Chairperson Terri Leimbach, General Manager Patrick Larkin, Director Brian Danzl, Secretary Michael Yearwood and Park Planning & Development Manager Laura Taylor with the California Association of Park and Recreation Commissioners and Board Members (CAPRCBM) Outstanding Project Award.

The Cordova Recreation & Park District (District) is honored to be the recipient of the California Association of Park and Recreation Commissioners and Board Members (CAPRCBM) Outstanding Project Award for the Cordova Community Pool. The District was presented with the award on March 10, 2022.

 

The new complex brings back an integral piece of community recreation and exercise. With two distinct pools, residents will find something for everyone: whether it is lap swimming, swim and safety classes, aquatic fitness, swim clubs or just cooling off during the hot Rancho Cordova summers. Swimming is one of the best exercises because it engages the whole body. Water-based exercise reduces impact on joints and provides steady resistance, making it ideal for people with joint-related issues. Having access to water-play is great for mental health as well. It improves mood in adults and the play feature is great for brain and motor skill development in small children. The Cordova Community Pool expands the aquatic capabilities in the community and is the only public pool in Rancho Cordova that accommodates swim teams and lap swimming.

 

As a part of improving the health and wellbeing of the community, the District created inclusive guidelines and signage. Swim Attire Guidelines encourage patrons to wear attire designed for water activities including, but not limited to, swimsuits, athletic shorts and dry-fit clothing. For safety reasons, the guidelines advise that patrons should not wear clothing that is excessively heavy or made of absorbent material. Additionally, the locker rooms at the Cordova Community Pool have signs that promote an inclusive environment. At the entrance and throughout each locker room, signs are displayed which feature the text “CRPD supports a person’s right to use the locker facility consistent with their gender identity”. In developing and implementing these guidelines and signs, the District has created and will continue to foster a positive culture where community members can feel welcome and enjoy activities at the Cordova Community Pool.

 

The District looks forward to being able to offer additional programs, including adaptive programs, for community members to enjoy.

 

Rock Your Socks!

Posted on by Shelby Golden

 

We are rocking our socks for World Down Syndrome Day! This year, we are diving deeper into World Down Syndrome Day by interviewing Brooke Daly, a mom of a child with Down Syndrome and an advocate for children with disabilities. We talk about why March 21st was chosen, the meaning behind Rock Your Socks, challenges, inclusion and resources.

 

Resources

– Down Syndrome Association of Central California (https://www.dsacc.org/)

– Down Syndrome Association of Delaware (https://www.dsadelaware.org/)

– National Down Syndrome Society (https://www.ndss.org/)

– Global Down Syndrome Foundation (https://www.globaldownsyndrome.org/)

 

Thank you to all of our staff who rocked their socks!

 
 
 

Safety First!

Posted on by Shelby Golden

 

The Cordova Recreation & Park District (District) is honored to be the recipient of the California Association for Park and Recreation Indemnity (CAPRI) Ted Winslow Safety Award.

Cordova Recreation & Park District General Manager Patrick Larkin (right) and Chairperson Rick Sloan with the California Association for Park and Recreation Indemnity’s Ted Winslow Safety Award.
Cordova Recreation & Park District General Manager Patrick Larkin (right) and Chairperson Rick Sloan with the California Association for Park and Recreation Indemnity’s Ted Winslow Safety Award.

The District was awarded by CAPRI for outstanding performance in recognition of the District’s commitment to safety and loss control. The District was presented with the award during the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts Annual Conference on June 24, 2021.

 

The award received its name to honor Ted Winslow. Prior to becoming General Manager of Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District, Winslow was in the insurance field. Winslow was instrumental in getting recreation and park districts in California to pool together and form a joint powers authority (JPA). This JPA, CAPRI, finds insurance for park and recreation districts throughout California.

 

The District is proud to be recognized by CAPRI for the dedication to safety.

 

Join us for Hoppin’ & Huntin’ at Hagan!

Posted on by Shelby Golden

 

We warmly invite you to our Hoppin’ & Huntin’ at Hagan event. This annual, family-friendly event will be held on Saturday, April 9, 2022, from 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. at Hagan Community Park located at 2197 Chase Drive in Rancho Cordova. Admission is free!

 

We will be having basketfuls of fun with themed activities including egg hunts, tot lot, music, Hopstacle Course and more! You can also take a picture with our Easter Bunny in our themed photo booth.

 

There are four different egg hunt times:

• 9 a.m. Area A: Ages 3-4 Area B: Ages 7-8

• 9:30 a.m. Area A: Ages 5-6 Area B: Ages 9-10

• 10 a.m. Area A: Ages 5 & under Area B: Ages 6-10

• 9 – 10:30 a.m. Tot Lot: Ongoing egg hunts for children under 3

 

A big thank you to our sponsors Music & More DJ Entertainment, Rancho Cordova Rotary Club, California American Water, Summerset Senior Living and the Kiwanis Club of Rancho Cordova for making this event possible!

 

New Year, New CRPD Park!

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

CRPD Board of Directors, staff and community cut the ribbon to officially open Hummingbird Park! Photo: CRPD

In celebration of community and nature, the Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) gathered in the neighborhood of Anatolia on January 8, 2024, for the grand opening of Hummingbird Park, the latest addition to the community’s green spaces. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a celebratory occasion marked by the presence of local dignitaries and speeches from dedicated CRPD staff.

Located at 11990 Cobble Brook Drive in Rancho Cordova, Hummingbird Park stands in the newest housing developments near the intersection of Sunrise Boulevard and Douglas Road. This neighborhood park packs a punch with its thoughtful design and commitment to celebrating the beauty of nature. From the hummingbird tiles in the seating areas to flowers in the play surfacing, every aspect was carefully selected to create a sense of place within the neighborhood. Hummingbird Park features a delightful playground, grassy areas, basketball court and a shaded picnic pavilion with multiple barbecue grills.

Hummingbird Park marks the 45th park to be owned and operated by CRPD, and as there continues to be rapid growth and development, one of CRPD’s priorities is to ensure access to recreation spaces for residents within its boundaries.

“As CRPD moves forward into a new era of park building, we will work hard to bring our residents public spaces that are unique to each community. CRPD sets high standards. We believe it is important to create spaces that not only provide park necessities, but also include memorable, creative opportunities,” says Patrick Larkin, CRPD General Manager.

Readers can learn more about new developments, stay informed on updates and more at CRPD’s website at www.cordovarpd.gov.
 
CRPD Board of Directors with District Director Mark Cullum with Assemblyman Josh Hoover’s office recognizing Hummingbird Park. Photo: CRPD
CRPD Board of Directors with District Director Mark Cullum with Assemblyman Josh Hoover’s office recognizing Hummingbird Park. Photo: CRPD
CRPD Board of Directors with District Representative Kosim Latipov with CA State Senator Roger Niello’s office recognizing Hummingbird Park. Photo: CRPD
 
CRPD Board of Directors with District Representative Kosim Latipov with CA State Senator Roger Niello’s office recognizing Hummingbird Park. Photo: CRPD

Congratulations on your retirement, Greg!

Posted on by Shelby Golden
 
 

With over 17 years of service at the Neil Orchard Senior Activities Center, we are announcing Greg Wright’s retirement. Greg has been the heart and soul of the Center for almost two decades! Greg interacted with all the members and treated them as family, as they did with him. Greg’s care and compassion for the seniors showed and made him thrive at his job. His dedication to the Center was displayed through his daily work and he took pride in keeping the inside and outside of the Center neat and orderly. His customer service went above and beyond!

 

We will miss Greg and wish him the best in his next adventures!

 
 
Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) Neil Orchard Senior Activities Center Staff Austin Hall, Heather Schelske, Greg Wright and Barbara Rogers.

CRPD Staff Donates to Unhoused Students

Posted on by Shelby Golden

 

The Cordova Recreation & Park District’s (District) Community Engagement Program is underway! The Community Engagement Program, spearheaded by District General Manager Patrick Larkin, is a quarterly program that focuses on giving back to the community.

Cordova Recreation & Park District staff and Folsom Cordova Unified School District staff with donations for Homeless Student Services.
 
During this quarter, the District collaborated with the Folsom Cordova Unified School District (FCUSD) Homeless Student Services. FCUSD Homeless Student Services helps ensure homeless children have an equal opportunity to obtain a high quality education and provides resources to families. Throughout the quarter, District staff and Board of Directors contributed various Target gift cards. On December 17, 2021, District staff presented FCUSD with donations totaling $940 to be used for new shoes and clothing.
 
“I’m proud of our generous and caring CRPD staff for their continued support for the unhoused students in Rancho Cordova. Many of the CRPD staff are residents of Rancho Cordova so this opportunity to work with FCUSD for the students in need has special meaning,” said Larkin. “We look forward to more opportunities to work in partnership with FCUSD to make the community stronger and to meet the needs of our most vulnerable youth.”
 
CRPD is proud to collaborate with FCUSD Homeless Student Services to help support local students.
 

Lend a Hand, Give a Can!

Posted on by Shelby Golden
 
 
Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) staff with 500 food donations for the Rancho Cordova Food Locker. Photo: CRPD.
Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) staff with over 500 food donations for the Rancho Cordova Food Locker. Photo: CRPD.

The Cordova Recreation & Park District’s (CRPD) Community Engagement Program is underway! The Community Engagement Program, spearheaded by CRPD General Manager Patrick Larkin, is a program that focuses on giving back to the community. Over the last few weeks, District staff contributed food items including pasta, snacks, instant noodles, rice, baby formula and canned foods such as soup, veggies and chili.

 

“More of our neighbors will be turning to food banks during the holidays – many of them for the first time. During a season that is traditionally filled with festive gatherings and holiday meals, many people will not be able to afford food for themselves or their families,” said Larkin. “We are proud of our donation to the Rancho Cordova Food Locker, who have become accustomed to this increased level of distribution and will continue to connect people to food. CRPD will continue to support and donate to the Rancho Cordova Food Locker that provides this critical service in our community.”

 

On December 3, 2021, District staff presented over 500 food items to the Rancho Cordova Food Locker. The Rancho Cordova Food Locker provides an emergency supply of food for individuals and families in the community.

 

The Rancho Cordova Food Locker accepts more than just cans, however, canned, boxed or bottled non-perishable foods are welcomed. To learn more about the Rancho Cordova Food Locker or to donate items, visit www.ranchocordovafoodlocker.org.

 

Halloween at Hagan returned for a night of fun!

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

With the return of many entertaining activities, Cordova Recreation & Park District (District) held its annual Halloween event once again!

Community members enjoy Cordova Recreation & Park District’s Halloween at Hagan event in full costume.
Community members enjoy Cordova Recreation & Park District’s Halloween at Hagan event in full costume.

On October 30, 2021, the District welcomed families to attend this safe, engaging and community-oriented event. Over 2,000 people attended the event and participated in an assortment of activities including carnival games, an inflatable slide and obstacle course and enjoyed music from Music & More Entertainment. Kona Ice and the AMERICAN RIVER LODGE #795 – Masonic Lodge had food available for purchase for anyone who worked up an appetite. Community members viewed demonstration experiments from The Science Wizard and ran for their lives in the Zombie Run, the most popular activity of the night. Those brave enough to enter the Zombie Run were tasked with running, jumping and dodging through a zombie-infested obstacle course while hoping to make it to safety. Through the District’s Trunk-or-Treat, families and community members were able to get their fill of candy and connect with community resources. The Trunk-or-Treat was packed with 22 vendors who skillfully decorated their vehicles and interacted with the community.

 

Cordova Recreation & Park District has great and exciting events coming up as we close out 2021! Please continue to keep your eyes out for the Green Thumb Lunch, Indoor Bingo, Breakfast with Santa & Holiday Craft Fair and the Polar Bear Plunge.

 

CRPD Opens Pyramid Peak Park!

Posted on by Shelby Golden
 
 
From the left, Cordova Recreation & Park District (District) Director of Parks & Recreation Jill Nunes; District Board Members: Director Brian Danzl, Director Michael Yearwood, Chairperson Rick Sloan, Vice-Chairperson Terri Leimbach; District General Manager Patrick Larkin and Park Planning & Development Manager Laura Taylor celebrate the opening of Pyramid Peak Park.
From the left, Cordova Recreation & Park District (District) Director of Parks & Recreation Jill Nunes; District Board Members: Director Brian Danzl, Director Michael Yearwood, Chairperson Rick Sloan, Vice-Chairperson Terri Leimbach; District General Manager Patrick Larkin and Park Planning & Development Manager Laura Taylor celebrate the opening of Pyramid Peak Park.
 

Earlier today, the Cordova Recreation & Park District (District) celebrated the opening of Pyramid Peak Park, a new neighborhood park in Rancho Cordova. Pyramid Peak Park is the 7th park the District has opened in the last five years and the District’s 43rd park overall. This park was named after the beautiful California Sierra Mountains that can be seen in the distance. Pyramid Peak Park offers meandering walkways, picnic areas and a beautiful landscape. In the midst of the densely built environment, people can come to this space to have a picnic, walk a dog or just relax in nature.

 

Pyramid Peak Park is the result of a team effort with two years of planning, designing and careful construction. The Pyramid Peak Park team consisted of District staff, Woodside Homes, Pacific Parks, Callander Associates and the District’s supportive Board of Directors.

 

This park is one of the many examples of the District’s sustainable parks. It has drought-tolerant landscaping, weather-wise irrigation systems and site furnishings that are durable and tough. The District will continue to bring the community sustainable places as the area grows and is built out. In the next few years, the District will be designing exciting parks, improving existing parks and planning for a sustainable and bright future.

 

The District is excited to see the community enjoy and make wonderful memories at this new neighborhood park. Now more than ever, Parks Make Life Better!® Visit Pyramid Peak Park at 4053 Red Blush Way, Rancho Cordova.

 

Meet Our Preschool Teacher!

Posted on by Shelby Golden

 

We are excited to announce our Cordova STEAM Preschool Teacher is Ms. Trish!

This will be Ms. Trish’s fifth year here in the CRPD preschool program. Ms. Trish has spent countless hours as a volunteer in the local school district and absolutely loves teaching preschool. It is her goal to find what sparks the interest of each child and to use that interest to build a love of learning that she hopes will serve them throughout their lives.

To get to know our Cordova STEAM Team a little better, we asked Ms. Trish a few fun questions!

What is one of your hidden talents?

I can touch my nose with my tongue, but please don’t ask me to demonstrate.

What song do you know all the lyrics to?

Too many to count, I love music in almost all genres. My preschool favorites are mostly counting songs like five little monkeys or five little ducks.

What are your “trapped on a desert island” books or movies?

I really like to learn new things, so mostly I read non-fiction. I tend to get carried away after reading true stories and I will find more info online (does this island have wifi?). I have recently been into this book called The Foundling and the documentaries created around the story. It is about a baby found abandoned who is now an adult and solving all these real-life mysteries about himself and his family. I think what really captured my attention is how it is one of those “stranger than fiction” stories with lots of surprises.

What can you cook to perfection?

I get a lot of requests for bacon and cream cheese stuffed mushrooms around the holidays.

What is your spirit animal?

This is a tough one, but I have to say an alligator. They like water, they are a little misunderstood at times and are pretty much the closest things we have to dinosaurs, what’s not to love?

What inspired you to become a teacher?

I have a really big family and have participated in the upbringing of lots of kids. There is something magical about the preschool age range. The first steps into autonomy and navigating peer relationships, finding their first friendships. The eagerness to learn new things and wanting to do things for themselves. The preschool age range is full of big milestones in a child’s life, which makes the preschool experience very important. Being able to contribute in positive ways and make that first step into education meaningful to children is very rewarding.

What makes a good day at school?

Every day is a good day at preschool, but I especially love a day when the kids are really engaged. I always have a plan for what we are going to teach on any given day, but often we get sidetracked because a student asks a really good question, or a few kids are doing something that we notice and create a lesson out of it. When that happens, lessons resonate more, and kids want to dig deeper. Because it came from them it feels like play, that’s really where the magic happens. Being flexible and having the day go a bit off course is almost always a great day in the classroom.

What is your favorite part about the first day of school?

Getting to know all the kids. We do a lot of activities in the first weeks that are really geared toward creating a community in the classroom. This means we will play games to help the children remember each other’s names and that sort of thing. It also means we will share a lot about ourselves in various ways. Asking even a shy preschooler if they have any pets will often illicit a response. That process of guiding kids through engaging with each other and discovering what they have in common is the best part of beginning a new school year.

 

Keep an eye out for our next blog post to learn about our new Preschool Aid, Ms. Shayla!

 
 

CRPD Receives Award for Senior Programs

Posted on by Shelby Golden

 

The Cordova Recreation & Park District (District) is honored to be the recipient of the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts (CARPD) Award of Distinction for Outstanding Activity or Special Event for the District’s Senior Drive-Thru Programs. The District was presented with the award during the CARPD Annual Conference on June 24, 2021.

 
 
From the left, CRPD Director of Parks & Recreation Jill Nunes, Recreation Supervisor Heather Schelske and General Manager Patrick Larkin with the CARPD Award of Distinction for Outstanding Activity or Special Event.
 

The need for healthy nutrition and play for seniors did not cease during the pandemic. In fact, the need may have been even be greater than before. With this mind, District staff developed several programs to keep seniors safe, provide seniors with a healthy lunch and provide community entertainment fun.

 

Our highly popular Green Thumb Lunch program was developed by District staff and a senior volunteer garden club and allows for the senior members of the community to come together for a nutritious meal. Our staff did not have the heart to let this viable program halt during the pandemic and instead developed the Green Thumb Lunch TO GO program. This program allows seniors to drive up and have a nutritious lunch brought out to their car. Since September 2020, the Green Thumb Lunch TO GO program has served over a thousand meals to seniors.

 

Knowing that the seniors loved to play Bingo at the Neil Orchard Senior Activities Center (Senior Center) prior to the pandemic, staff created a new Parking Lot Bingo. By using a FM transmitter and a microphone, staff and volunteers can call out Bingo letters and participants can listen through the radio and play along. This program became so beloved, the seniors rallied together to get donations for door prizes, volunteer bingo callers and car door prize runners to ensure the program stayed sustainable. Due to its success, multiple agencies throughout California have adopted this program for their seniors.

 

The District also partnered with the City of Rancho Cordova in the Great Plates program to deliver meals to an at-risk population. In short, the purpose of the new Great Plates Delivered program is to provide meals to seniors and to support local food providers who are struggling due to the pandemic. Even though the Senior Center is not a traditional restaurant, staff identified this opportunity to use our well-equipped, certified kitchen and partner in a program to provide meals to those in need. With over 600 Senior Center members, our staff was able to reach out to individuals and help them register for Great Plates. Our staff served breakfast, lunch and dinner to approximately 20 people for a total of 60 meals per day with meals being delivered Monday through Friday.

 

These programs gave the seniors something to look forward to and a safe event for them to attend where they can socialize with their friends from a safe distance. Imagine seeing a row of cars lined down the block where seniors can waive to one another and still be able to have a since of community while having safe fun outside of their home. When you can bring food and play together safely during a pandemic for the vulnerable population, in addition to lots of smiles, you know you have formed a connection.

 

CRPD Director Danzl Elected to CARPD Board

Posted on by Shelby Golden

 

Cordova Recreation & Park District’s Director Brian Danzl was elected to Board Secretary of the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts (CARPD) Board of Directors on June 24, 2021 at the CARPD Annual Conference.

CRPD Director Brian Danzl

An athletics coach and community volunteer, Danzl was born and raised in Rancho Cordova where he now raises his family. Danzl was first elected to the District’s Board of Directors in 2010 and was re-elected in 2014 and 2018.

 

“Brian Danzl has been an outstanding advocate for parks and recreation services throughout the Sacramento region,” expressed District General Manager Patrick Larkin. “He continues to represent the voice of the community as the District grows.”

 

Danzl is also an active member of CARPD, an organization dedicated to improving the quality of recreation and park districts throughout California. As a CARPD Board Secretary, Danzl will serve as an Executive Officer on the governing body responsible for all policy decisions related to support, education, member services and legislative advocacy for recreation and park districts in California. CARPD Board Members play a key role in overseeing the direction of the organization by identifying emerging trends in parks and recreation and working to provide resources to help better the communities of tens of millions of Californians.

 

“Danzl will bring a key voice from the growing Rancho Cordova community”, shared CARPD Executive Director Matthew Duarte. “We are grateful for his leadership and his continued commitment to our organization.”

 

CRPD Makes a Splash with Cordova Community Pool Grand Opening!

Posted on by Shelby Golden

 

We are excited to announce the unveiling of the new Cordova Community Pool! On June 28, 2021, several dignitaries joined the District for the ribbon cutting of the new aquatic center.

 
Cordova Recreation & Park District Board of Directors and staff celebrate the opening of the Cordova Community Pool with the City of Rancho Cordova and Assemblyman Ken Cooley.
Cordova Recreation & Park District Board of Directors and staff celebrate the opening of the Cordova Community Pool with the City of Rancho Cordova and Assemblyman Ken Cooley.
 

“The District is proud and excited to bring to our community this new aquatic center. The Cordova Community Pool will be a place for kids and families to make new memories at Hagan Community Park,” said General Manager Patrick Larkin. “Our staff will be offering numerous aquatic programs for all ages and swimming abilities with water safety and fun as our focus. We thank the community for their patience and support in bringing this important community facility new life.”

 

Since its construction in the late 1960’s, the Cordova Community Pool was a source of pride in the Cordova Recreation & Park District community. It hosted countless Cordova Blue Marlin’s and Cordova Lancers Swim Meets. The Cordova Community Pool was home for important trainings with the Red Cross. In the 1970’s, the facility hosted the California State Fair Swim Meet which was one of the largest meets of its type in the western United States. In 1974, Cordova Community Pool hosted the California State Police Olympiad. For decades, it has been home to the Cordova Cordettes Synchronized Swim Team and their amazing aqua shows. The Cordova Community Pool has been a source of fun and inspiration for the community for almost 53 years.

 

During public outreach for this Cordova Community Pool Replacement Project, community members shared how important this place was during their childhoods and how they looked forward to bringing their children or grandchildren to the pool again one day. The facility has been restored in a more sustainable way to ensure that generations of families can come back to Cordova Community Pool for many years to come.

 
Cordova Recreation & Park District Board of Directors and General Manager celebrate the opening of the Cordova Community Pool. From left to right: Director Michael Yearwood, Secretary Inez Reyes, General Manager Patrick Larkin, Director Brian Danzl, Vice-Chairperson Terri Leimbach and Chairperson Rick Sloan.
Cordova Recreation & Park District Board of Directors and General Manager celebrate the opening of the Cordova Community Pool. From left to right: Director Michael Yearwood, Secretary Inez Reyes, General Manager Patrick Larkin, Director Brian Danzl, Vice-Chairperson Terri Leimbach and Chairperson Rick Sloan.
 

“It was definitely a project form the heart”, said Chair of the Board Rick Sloan. “The passion that was poured into this facility will keep these two pools full and flourishing for the community members to enjoy for another 50 years.”

 

A project like this takes an incredible team and years of planning, public outreach, programming, design, budgeting and construction. This team consisted of District staff, Salaber and Associates, Inc., SW Allen Construction, Inc., LPA, Inc. and Aquatic Design Group. The project was supported in part by the Measure H Community Enhancement Fund from the City of Rancho Cordova. We appreciate the support and partnership with the City, and we look forward to more community projects in the future.

 

There are countless others who contributed to this project from parks and recreation staff to material suppliers to the plan reviewers, but now that the project is complete, this place belongs to the community. We invite the community to relax, stay cool, enjoy these beautiful pools this summer and start making family memories.

 

Music to Our Ears: Guitar Classes are Here!

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

We’re celebrating #NationalGuitarDay by introducing our new contract music instructor Adam Block, founder and owner of the Block Academy of Music.

About Our Partnership

For years CRPD has offered a plethora of sports, fitness, arts and enrichment programs for all ages. However, the community consistently asked for more music classes. One parent wrote in to the District asking for affordable opportunities for her child to learn an instrument. After reaching out to the successful and local professional, Adam Block, the District delivered, signing a contract to help the Block Academy of Music host guitar lessons.

 

About Adam

Adam began playing at the age of 13 and was self-taught through most of his youth. Having learned to love music without proper instruction and being of a practical mind, Adam pursued studying history at University of California, Davis, for his higher education. Post-graduation, upon realizing his heart was still with music, Adam decided to follow his passion and went on to earn a second degree in music from Berklee College of Music. After spending years performing on tour as a band leader, while simultaneously teaching and serving as a session musician, Adam determined that teaching was where his time/talent was best served. Thus, the Block Academy of Music was established in October of 2018.

 
 

With over 25 years of experience, Adam feels like he was born to teach. “How much a teacher can make a difference in the lives of students is a thought that motivates me constantly,” Adam said.

 

“Like music, teaching is an art. It’s the art of communication; a successful music teacher can communicate techniques and concepts to new students in a way that is clear, concise, accessible and easy to understand. When I began teaching, I realized this came so naturally to me. Plus, building relationships with your students and thriving with them, in their growth, is truly fulfilling,” Adam said.

 

Why Music?

District staff went to visit Adam’s studio and meet some of his students. Dominic Sanson, 13, has been one of Adam’s students for six months. Dominic’s mother, Tina loves what music brings to her son’s life. “He can unplug and have an outlet to express himself,” Tina said.

 

“It keeps him in the present and away from the digital world. At one point, Dominic was saving up for a PlayStation, but once he got invested in his lessons, he saved up to buy his own guitar,” Tina said.

 

Adam’s philosophy focuses on music’s benefits like these. He works to teach students more than the instrument, the chords and the songs. Adam wants his students to feel music connect their mind and body and witness how sound affects your emotional state. He believes individuals do not need to be masterful in playing music in order to enjoy the benefits. Learn, listen, sing or play!

 

How You Can Get Involved

Interested in trying guitar but not ready to commit? Adam offers a free introductory lesson for those contemplating private lessons.

 

Beginning Guitar is offered at the Block Academy of Music studio on Mondays and/or Wednesdays from 4 to 5 p.m. for ages 13-17 or from 7 to 8 p.m. for participants 18+. The classes are ideally suited for those interested in learning a new instrument or renewing a former passion. Classes are now open for online registration. For more information, visit crpd.com/programs.

 

Located off Sunrise and Coloma in Gold River, the Block Academy of Music studio has ample space for families to listen in on their loved ones’ lessons. Does your aspiring guitarist need privacy while learning? The studio is near fitness centers and plenty of restaurants to keep families occupied.

 
 
Left to Right: Elijah (student), Adam, Dominic (student)

CRPD & Cordova High School Partnership Brings Holiday Cheer to Students-In-Need

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

On December 12, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) staff donated $835 in various gift cards to students-in-need at Cordova High School. In partnership with the Folsom Cordova Unified School District, CRPD continued a tradition of holiday donations, reflecting a fierce commitment to their mission to serve community needs.

 
From left to right: Office Manager Sharday White, Human Resource Manager Andrea White and General Manager Patrick Larkin bring bag full of holiday card to Cordova High School Principal Jerad Hyden and Counselor Mark Levy.
 
Hand-written notes from staff will accompany the gifts.

CRPD’s General Manager Patrick Larkin, Human Resource Manager Andrea White and Office Manager Sharday White met with Principal Jerad Hyden and Counselor Mark Levy to drop off the holiday gifts. Each homeless student will receive an envelope with gift cards to restaurants, clothing stores and/or entertainment centers, and a hand-written note from a CRPD staff member.

 

Cordova High School’s Principal Jerad Hyden wrote a letter to Mayor of Rancho Cordova Robert McGarvey, acknowledging CRPD for their efforts. “We are truly speechless… to think of the combined efforts in raising this amount of money for our most vulnerable students is a task worthy of the highest level of praise,” Jerad said. “The remarkable caveat, this money was raised internally, that is to say, it was completely donated by the wonderful staff of CRPD!”

 

“A huge thank you to Patrick and his staff for making a difference in the lives of students who often have very little to look forward to and be thankful for given this time of the year. Our dedicated CHS Counselors have devised a plan to ensure this gift is in the hands of each of our students before winter break,” Jerad wrote.

 

CRPD staff members were thrilled about this opportunity and jumped at the chance to give back. “I was so excited about this decision to focus on high school students this year.” Recreation Supervisor Nina Sinor said. “I wanted to do so much more than just the gift cards because these kids are our neighbors. But to be able to provide such an impressionable age group with positivity and something that says, “we care about you because you’re in our community,” it just warms your heart. I hope we can continue to do this every year,” Nina said.

 

New to the District, Park Services Supervisor II, Tammy Rominger, felt the need to give, recalling the high school years as a challenging time of transition. “I was lucky to have a home during this vital time of transitioning to adulthood, so my hope was that this gesture would not only provide them with a necessity, but also let them know that we care,” Tammy said. “Teenagers have the desire to be independent and these gift cards can help provide a sense of pride and responsibility. I want the gift to be encouraging so that one day when they are successful, they’ll remember this moment, and give back too,” Tammy said.

 

CRPD staff wishes all a joyous holiday and Happy New Year!

 

The Giving Tree: Gail Retires & Receives Dedicated Tree Planting

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

Rancho Cordova, CA – On All Hallows’ Eve, Cordova Recreation & Park District’s (CRPD) beloved Administrative Specialist Gail Bair retired after 33 years of service. Just a few days later, to Gail’s surprise, the District held a dedicated tree planting at Ahlstrom Park.

Gail (center) and her family at Ahlstrom Park during her surprise tree planting (Nov. 2)
 

Since Gail’s hiring as a preschool teacher in 1986, she has impacted not only her coworkers at CRPD, but community members alike. Gail spearheaded the staff recognition committee, was the secretary of the safety committee and organized giving opportunities like presents, clothes or canned food drives for under-served families. General Manager Patrick Larkin feels Gail was a vital core of the District. “Gail is someone who made sure our integrity and community service mentality was alive and well,” Patrick said. “She did more than just serve the staff internally but led these incredible drives for the community throughout the year. She was a staple, and her servant leader personality is what we are looking for in her replacement,” Patrick said.

 
Gail (right) with Director of Parks & Recreation Jill Nunes during Gail’s retirement potluck at the District Office

For most employees, Gail was the first smiling face to welcome them to the District team. Human Resource Manager Andrea White said Gail brought “humor, color, and lightness to the office.”

 

Gail was hoping to leave without too much fanfare, having always been more comfortable giving than receiving. But because she was such an important part of the District, the management team purchased Gail’s favorite tree, a Watermelon Crape Myrtle, and invited her family and friends to surprise her with a tree planting at her favorite park.

 

“Words cannot even express how much I have loved working with everyone at the District,” Gail said. “I always felt appreciated and needed. What I love to do is serve, and that’s what I got to do here – it’s what I will miss the most,” Gail said. When asked what legacy she would like to leave at the District, Gail hopes kindness and the spirit of giving will remain.

 

Gail and her husband, Roy, will be moving to Utah within the month to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

 
Thank you, Gail. You will be missed!
 
 
Fellow District staff came out to celebrate Gail. From left to right: Recreation Coordinator Chase Michelotti, Golf Course Superintendent VJ Singh, Recreation Superintendent Rebecca Sermeno, Human Resource Specialist Jennifer Wilfon, Park Planning Manager Laura Taylor, Human Resource Manager Andrea White, Clerk of the Board Danielle Jones, Gail Bair, Finance Manager Matt Goodell, Recreation Supervisor Nina Sinor, Park Planner Cristina James & General Manager Patrick Larkin

She Brings Honor To Us All: Laura Taylor wins Staff Person of the Year

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

Anaheim, CA – Last week, Cordova Recreation & Park District’s (CRPD) Park Planning and Development Manager Laura Taylor received the Staff Person of the Year award from the California Special Districts Association (CSDA) during the association’s Annual Conference and Exhibitor Showcase, September 25-28, 2019.

 
 

Since Laura’s hiring in 2013, she has been praised by community members, colleagues and professional associations alike. General Manager Patrick Larkin, who oversees District operations, felt they “hit the jackpot,” with Laura, a certified landscape architect in three states with a vision for future improvements. Not only was she vital in the Nexus Study, Capital Improvement Plan and County-Wide Fee Initiative for CRPD, Laura took the time to make a difference in tasks that seemed minor, like changing the record-keeping system into a digital filing system. She is a mentor and a leader who inspires her team to be their best. She currently manages all Park Planning and Development projects, including construction of new parks or acceptance of turn-key parks and Measure J renovation projects.

 

“I am so grateful for my coworkers who nominated me, that in itself is a deep honor,” Laura said in her acceptance speech. She spent her few minutes acknowledging the team she works with and how they contribute to the District’s impeccable work. Watch the full award video on our Facebook page!

 

Congratulations, Laura!

 
 
From Left to Right: General Manager Patrick Larkin, Director Inez Reyes, Park Planning & Development Manager Laura Taylor, Director Terri Leimbach, Vice Chairperson Brian Danzl and Secretary Rick Sloan

Preschool, Parks and Pee Wee Programs

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

This year, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) has joined other parks and recreation agencies state-wide in recognizing Parks Make Life Better!® Month (PMLB Month). Parks Make Life Better!® Month is a celebration of Parks and Recreation, as a community service, and a demonstration of how these services model compassion and inclusivity, and promote social equity and networking.

 

In celebration of PMLB Month, CRPD has chosen to highlight one community member, weekly, showcasing community pride, recognizing individual contributions and encouraging younger generations.

Part 4: The Davis Family and Discovery Kids

The Davis family have been residents of the District for over eight years, are active members of the community and frequent District parks for leisure time and events. Meet Jamie (mom), Chandler (dad), 4-year-old James, and 2-year-old Ben.

 
From left to right: Ben, Chandler, James, and Jamie.
 

One of the youngest members of the District, James Davis, is a Discovery Kids Preschool student, who loves science, sports and socializing. Jamie keeps James in the program year-round, so he has an opportunity to continue preparing for future schooling and life.

 
James on his first day of preschool
 

“I was so excited to find out the Discovery Kids program existed. James loves it and I love it, because I feel like the program gives him the opportunity to socialize and trains the skills he needs for kindergarten. That’s why he attended preschool camp, all four weeks this summer. I wanted to keep him in a routine and keep him learning,” Jamie said.

 

CRPD’s Discovery Kids Preschool program is a child-centered, classroom experience that emphasizes hands-on activities to help children develop socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually.

 

Having completed a full year of Discovery Kids, James has already demonstrated immense growth. “James has flourished so much going to Discovery Kids. He’s learned to share, learned compassion for other people, and on the academic level, he’s learned the whole alphabet, and will tell me about the weather… He’s even starting to learn to spell and identify words just by looking at them,” Jamie said.

 

This upcoming fall, James will enter the new Discovery Kids STEM program at White Rock Community Clubhouse. “Last year, James showed a particular love for any sensory play or hands-on learning. Whether it was painting things or making things with clay, he always came home with something he made that day. But science-based activities, like making goo, were so fun for him, since he loves science stuff. So he’s really excited for the STEM program,” Jamie said.

 

After preschool, James participates in CRPD’s Pee Wee Sports program at the Mather Sports Complex. “He’s done basketball, t-ball, soccer, track & field, and is about to start flag football. It’s an amazing way to let them explore when they’re young, so they can pick and choose what they like. Plus, we’ve had an incredible experience with the coaches. Specifically, Coach Jim. He is so nice and always remembers kids’ names – he’s almost like family – like uncle Jim!” Jamie said.

 
James at Pee Wee Soccer lessons with Coach Jim
 

BEYOND PRESCHOOL & RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS

Living right off Bradshaw Road, Jamie feels that Riviera East Park is part of their home. “It’s like our second backyard, literally and metaphorically. The kids love to be there. They explore, identify the animals in the park, make friends with other kids – the socialization James has learned at the preschool helps him in these environments. He’s not afraid to talk to other parents or go play with other kids,” Jamie said.

 

While Riviera East Park’s proximity makes for a convenient, nature getaway, the Davis family considers themselves District park experts, having visited almost all 36 of them, multiple times. “The park and facility directory in the back of the recreation guide is so helpful. I can glance over each park’s amenities and use it to pick where we want to go that day. It’s nice to have the options for whatever we’re in the mood for. We hit up all the splash pads, attend some birthday parties in parks, enjoy the shade structures at the parks out in Anatolia and my two-year-old loves the Hagan Community Barn, which he calls ‘the farm,’” Jamie said.

 
Ben at the Village Green splash park
 

With their consistent participation in community events, District programs and utilization of parks, the Davis family has found joy in giving back to the District that serves their community. “Whenever we can, we go down to the barn to donate extra produce that we can’t eat in time for animals. It’s a great reason to bring Ben to the barn, but also nice to know we’re helping make this barn experience possible,” Jamie said.

 

As a parent in the District, Jamie does not solely seek out resources for her children. She has utilized District resources and programs for herself. “I have participated in golf lessons at the Cordova Golf Course and played in adult softball leagues. We utilize the services, because they’re ours to capitalize on. We kinda feel like they belongs to us,” Jamie said.

 
James at Riviera East Park
 

In her children’s future, Jamie sees further participation in the District. James will get to explore his other interests, like joining the Jr. Kings’ basketball league when he’s old enough, or expressing his love for dance in hip hop classes at the Hagan Community Center. “Until I had kids, I didn’t even know we had such a strong park district. Now that I have two, I’m so excited to flip through the rec guide CRPD sends out and see how many ways I can get them involved,” Jamie said.

 

As for little Ben, Jamie plans to place him in both Discovery Kids Preschool and Pee Wee Sports once he turns three. “It’s super affordable, and they’re playing with kids their age, and learning those super basic skills they’ll need later. For that age, that’s more than we could ask for,” Jamie said.

 
James (second from right) and fellow Discovery Kids Preschool students
 

Visit https://cordovarpd.gov/programs/earlychildhood/ to learn more about programs for children under 6. Discovery Kids Preschool is still open for registration and begins Tuesday, September 3.

 

Tag, You’re It

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

This year, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) has joined other parks and recreation agencies state-wide in recognizing Parks Make Life Better!® Month (PMLB Month). Parks Make Life Better!® Month is a celebration of Parks and Recreation, as a community service, and a demonstration of how these services model compassion and inclusivity, and promote social equity and networking.

 

In celebration of PMLB Month, CRPD has chosen to highlight one community member, weekly, showcasing community pride, recognizing individual contributions and encouraging younger generations.

 

Part 3: Shawn aka “Sheddy” and the Dova Boys

 
Shawn (front row, second from the left) and The Krew – CRPD’s Adult Softball League Team

Shawn Shedenhelm aka “Sheddy” has been playing in Cordova Recreation & Park District’s adult softball leagues since 1987. Though he experienced childhood in Iowa, Shawn’s fondest memories he recalls occurred here in Rancho Cordova parks. When Shawn moved into town, just before freshman year of high school, he was befriended by the self-proclaimed “Dova Boys” – a group of 10 young men who connected because of common interests and bonded for life.

 

All 10 boys in the “Dova Boys” friend group lived within the Cordova Recreation & Park District, attended a high school within the Folsom Cordova Unified School District and participated in District activities. Thus, the name “Dova Boys” came to be. “We were those kids playing in the trees, diving into the river, laughing on the rope swings and playing tag in the park. We met through gaming like Dungeons & Dragons, but also through sports and other activities of mutual interests,” Shawn said

 
A celebratory ’10-years-of-friendship’ T-shirt the Dova Boys created
 

One activity of peak interest for the Dova Boys was playing games outdoors. “We used to throw together pick-up, full-tackle football games, or we’d play this game called “paper tag,” in parks during fall or winter evenings when it gets foggy and cool. Basically, we used a rolled-up newspaper to tag people. If that newspaper touched someone, however you managed, that was the ‘tag.’ Back in the day, our biggest games included over 30 kids! Parks like Sunriver, Ahlstrom, Federspiel, and Dave Roberts were ideal because players couldn’t hide in the open fields. But we’d still use park amenities like the playground to hide or as obstacles. The game was like hide-and-go-seek combined with tag, on steroids,” Shawn said.

 
Shawn (top right) and four of the Dova Boys in 1988
 

While the parks combined with youthful energy provided inspiration to create games like paper tag, Shawn felt that the biggest benefit of the outdoor spaces was the built camaraderie. To this day, six of the 10 Dova Boys still get together on a Saturday every month. “We’ll hang out from noon to midnight, help each other with a project and do lunch or play board games, go out to the movies, shoot billiards, etc. These relationships we built in middle school and maintained throughout high school were strong because we had these open spaces to play in. The freedom parks gave us outside of school and home life shaped our upbringing,” Shawn said.

 

The six Dova Boys who still reside in the District help out the community in a variety of professions including IT, Police Department, and water treatment. Beyond their 9-5 job, some even volunteer coach for local youth sports program. Shawn, for example, was a volunteer Pee Wee sports instructor for CRPD from 2014-2016 when his sons participated in the program. “I introduced my kids to sports this way, because the sports are taught over a short enough time period that there’s no burn-out and they got to be introduced to different concepts before they entered into organized sports,” Shawn said. “Watching my kids go through the program and helping coach it, well, I just think it’s a great introductory sport program for those who haven’t played or are just beginning to play.”

 
Shawn’s sons, Connor (left) and AJ (right) at Code Ninjas in Rancho Cordova
 

Currently, Shawn’s sons are seven and nine. They love learning technology and math at Code Ninjas or playing basketball and skateboarding at Mather Sports Complex (MSC). “We’re looking into joining the Jr. King’s league. One of the guys I play softball with wants to volunteer coach for the program, so we’re even more interested because of that aspect. The fact he can volunteer coach and wants to, that’s community investment,” Shawn said.

 
Shawn’s youngest son, Connor, at Mather Sports Complex’s skate park
 

This community investment spans farther than parents wanting to help Coach. Shawn is in awe of the community participants who have shown care towards his sons. “At least a few times a month, I’ll go out to the skate park with an ice chest full of cold drinks to share. What’s nice is, I’ll offer a soda or water to some of the other advanced skaters, and they’ll come over and give my kids pointers, or initiate showing the kids some skills on their own. The community out here is pretty great,” Shawn said.

 

Shawn has seen these aspects of community in his fellow softball teammates, as well. While the full Dova Boys group may no longer be connected 30 years later, Shawn has bonded with his fellow league players that he interacts with Monday through Thursday at MSC.

 

“We’re there for each other all the time. It’s not just going out to play, you become a support system. When we see new players out there, we are inviting because we want them to enjoy the experience and keep coming out. Our guys will also help the staff clean up post-games. We look at it as a giving back system because the facility provides us with experience, and we want to take care of it right back. Especially when the staff has been so friendly and invested and interested in improving the experience for us. We see how the staff goes through all this effort for us, and so we think ‘what can we do for them?’ It comes in full circles,” Shawn said.

 
Shawn (bottom right) and Club2Me team at Mather Sports Complex for Thursday night’s adult leagues
 

One of Shawn’s teammates, Marlin Stark, agrees with Shawn that adult sports leagues are a friendly community, beneficial to both mental and physical health. “These leagues get you out of your circle. Playing and enjoying a game with and against people from different backgrounds, ages, professions, etc. just gets you away from the day to day stuff. I have friends who play in both adult softball and basketball leagues because they are such a great outlet and mental release. You get to have fun and be with friends, or make new friends,” Marlin said.

 

Beyond Shawn’s Dova Boys reunions, or Marlin and Shawn’s game time with teammates, both community members have found a desire to return each season because of these relationships built within Cordova. “We all get together for BBQs at Heron Landing Community Park, whether it’s for practice or to end the season with a celebration. We do more than just play softball together. We’ll get together as a team for something like watching a UFC fighting event. You just build some amazing friendships playing in this league,” Marlin said.

 

Visit cordovarpd.gov for more information about adult sports leagues and park amenities offered by CRPD.

 

Coming Full Twirl

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

This year, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) has joined other parks and recreation agencies state-wide in recognizing Parks Make Life Better!® Month (PMLB Month). Parks Make Life Better!® Month is a celebration of Parks and Recreation as a community service, and a demonstration of how these services model compassion and inclusivity, and promote social equity.

 

In celebration of PMLB Month, CRPD has chosen to feature the story of one community member each week during the month of July to showcase community pride, recognize individual contributions and encourage the utilization of parks and recreation services.

 

Part 1: Mariah Palmiter and Mather Sports Complex

 
Mariah (right) and fellow competitors at the World Championships
 

For Mariah Palmiter, Parks Make Life Better!® Month means the world to her, literally. Her relationship with Cordova Recreation & Park District is one that led her to worldwide competitions and championships, including a 2nd place team finish and an individual top ten placement at the International Cup. After watching her sister participate in the Baton Twirling program at Mather Sports Complex (MSC), Mariah began twirling with Revolution Twirl Club at age 10.

 

“I only ever remember practicing at Mather. I spent eight hours a day, every single day, over summer there when I was young. I see the days I spent practicing at Mather as the ones that built important relationships for me. Some that mean so much to me personally, and some that have opened doors in the business world. It’s like a home to me, and where I’ve met some lifelong friends,” Mariah said.

 

Mariah enjoyed the sport and the program’s environment so much, she twirled throughout her career at Oakmont High School, competing at the local, regional, national and international levels. Her dedication and passion for twirling manifested in the form of full-ride scholarship offers to both the University of Hawaii and the University of Memphis.

 
Mariah (front, center) and the Revolution Twirl Club
 

Because she had family in Memphis, Mariah chose to accept that scholarship and move to Tennessee to pursue collegiate twirling at the age of 17. When asked how CRPD/Revolution Twirl Club program helped prepare her for the collegiate and professional world, Mariah said “These long days of physical and mental work prepare our athletes for a full-time job. The girls I coach are 16-17, ready to compete in France with the world team and then twirl professionally. I was the same. Hard work and dedication are learned in this program, and the characteristics you build, you can continue adding to with a little bit more work,” Mariah said.

 

RETURNING TO HER ROOTS

In 2013, Mariah returned to her roots and moved back to Sacramento to raise her daughter. A few years later, Mariah found herself missing the team environment and athletic component of twirling. Though she only had one year of dance training, her experience with twirling at MSC prepared her to make the Sacramento King’s Dance Team in 2016. “The twirling program opened up professional opportunities in the dance world for me. Normally that door would be closed. But going through this program allowed me to combine my twirling training with a bit of dance, to still be an asset to a professional NBA dance team. Plus, now I still have a great network that keeps professional doors open, like coaching or judging,” Mariah said.

 
Mariah and her daughter at a Sacramento King’s game
 

Part of this network includes Kellie Pearlman, Mariah’s former coach and current Revolution Twirl Club Coach. “Kellie is like family to me,” Mariah said. When Mariah returned to her community, she found a way to give back to the program that shaped her into the professional athlete and person she is today. Following in the footsteps of Kellie, through coaching, Mariah gets to share her knowledge of the sport and mentor young twirlers in life. Kellie, who also began twirling in her youth with Cordova Recreation & Park District and returned to coach for the program years later said, “and to think it all started with a rec class at Hagan Community Park!”

 

While Mariah coaches Baton Twirling, her daughter participates in CRPD’s Kuk Sool Won program, Jr. Kings Clinics, or other activities held at MSC. “There’s so many great things offered here, and I would rather my daughter be running around, staying active, than sitting at home in front of a screen. The complex has so many options, which is great. Especially because you never know what you’ll like until you try it!” Mariah said.

 
 

With the variety of program options for her daughter to try while she is working, and a tighter budget to manage while she completes her master’s degree, Mariah feels grateful for parks and recreation facilities like Mather Sports Complex. “Going through parks and recreation classes is so helpful, especially the financial aspect for families. Competitive teams are so expensive, and you can get the same, or almost the same, training for less through rec. Plus, the opportunity to try classes without a huge commitment is also great for the little ones,” Mariah said.

 

BEYOND TWIRLING

Beyond twirling and programs for her daughter, Mariah believes another great thing about frequenting Mather Sports Complex is seeing friends who participate in the adult programs and the evolution of her home. “While I’m coaching, sometimes I run into friends playing in the adult sports leagues. That’s fun because some of them were basketball players I met when I was young practicing here. All of us got really excited when the floor was redone with the King’s. Plus, we got to be first to utilize the remodel! All of the upgrades have been incredible,” Mariah said.

 

Mariah’s experiences showcase not only the lifelong physical benefits of program participation, but also the incredible relationships. “You meet other program participants when you’re around each other all the time, and when you spend enough time together, lasting friendships form,” Mariah said.

 
Mariah performing at Oakmont High School
 

Kellie and Mariah recommend Baton Twirling because it helps improve confidence, hand-eye coordination, dance and life skills. Visit www.crpd.com for more information about Revolution Twirling Club’s classes offered by CRPD at Mather Sports Complex.

 

About CRPD: Cordova Recreation & Park District is one of the largest independent special districts in Northern California serving over 120,000 residents and four school districts in the greater Sacramento area. CRPD provides over 40 parks and recreational facilities, as well as athletic camps, enrichment classes, educational programs and special events for the community.

 

Winner, Winner, New Board Member

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) received two large district Awards of Distinction at the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts’ (CARPD) Annual Awards of Distinction Banquet on May 24, 2019. In addition, two of CRPD’s Board of Directors members were sworn in to hold positions within the association.

 

CRPD’s Mather Sports Center received the nod for Outstanding Renovated Facility for the newly-refinished, Sacramento Kings-branded gymnasium. A project made possible by multiple partnerships, CRPD identified an opportunity for Mather Sports Center that would increase the facility’s sustainability and aesthetic. The upgrades, which included a refinished gymnasium floor, new lighting, new bleachers and new basketball hoops, benefitted not only CRPD’s youth sports programming (i.e. adding the Youth Jr. Kings Basketball League) but also enticed local sports clubs to rent the facility, increased open gym attendance, improved energy usage and enhanced the safety of all visitors. Throughout the project, CRPD worked closely with the County of Sacramento, the Good Tidings Foundation, the Sacramento Kings Community Impact team, Kaiser Permanente and SMUD to uplift this accessible, sustainable and safe community athletic space.

 
 
Photo by Rick Maness
 

Furthermore, Lincoln Village Community Park’s Fitness Course was the recipient of the Outstanding New Facility award from CARPD. This course demonstrates a 21st century ethic of resource allocation, providing a myriad of opportunities that serve the needs of a diverse and growing community. CRPD’s Park Planning & Development team demonstrated outstanding design and cost efficiency in this project, essential criteria for the award.

 

Since the fitness course opened in early 2018, it has been praised by community members and professional associations alike. Resident Google postings on the park give it a score of 4 out of 5 stars and members of the Neil Orchard Senior Activities Center claim it’s their favorite way to exercise outside of the instructed programs CRPD offers.

 

Some of those who praise these projects include CARPD’s Board of Directors. As individuals who represent faithful and honorable service to the park and recreation field, CRPD’s Board Secretary, Rick Sloan, who served as President-Elect for CARPD’s Board during the 2018-2019 year, was sworn in as President of the Board for 2019-2020, while Vice-chair for CRPD’s Board, Brian Danzl, was elected to the CARPD Board of Directors. Both Sloan and Danzl were honored and delighted to receive these nominations and look forward to further serving the recreation and parks industry.

 
CRPD Board Secretary, Rick Sloan, being sworn in by Director Danzl as CARPD’s Board President for 2019-2020
 

The California Association of Recreation and Park Districts (CARPD) is a 501(c)(6), nonprofit whose goals include providing support and education to recreation and park districts throughout the state of California. This association uses its annual banquet to recognize excellence in the field and acknowledges achievements of leaders in the industry.

 

Don’t put a sock in it: CRPD opens up the conversation about Down syndrome awareness on World DS Day

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

On Thursday, March 21, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) celebrated its third consecutive year contributing to Down syndrome awareness. In honor of World Down Syndrome Day, CRPD employees in the District Office wore wacky socks to work, participating in the #rockyoursocks campaign. To participate, CRPD posted a photo of the team’s wacky socks to various social media platforms, hoping to bring awareness and begin conversations about disability dialogue.

 
 

“The idea for socks denotating the day came from the chromosomes themselves. Before you have a child, when you do the genetic tests and look at a picture of the baby’s chromosomes, the chromosomes look like little socks,” Brooke Daly, Vice President of the Down Syndrome Association of Connecticut, said.

 
 

“Socks are such an easy and fun way to get people involved. Plus, they are a conversation starter. The whole point of the awareness day is to get the conversation about disabilities started. In general, I’d say talking about disabilities is still not the most comfortable topic. But if we can bring awareness to Down syndrome and discuss openly what it is and what it is not, we can remove the rumors and fear that surround it simply because its unfamiliar,” Brooke said.

 

Brooke has firsthand experience understanding the misconceptions about Down syndrome. Before her son, now six years-old, Brooke says she knew very little about Down syndrome. “Until I had to face it personally, my knowledge about Down syndrome was limited. Now, I spend a lot of my time trying to help people understand the genetic condition and encouraging others to have conversations about it. Sometimes I’ll just be at the grocery store and see another child is interested in my son’s differences. When that happens, I encourage the parent and child to come talk and bond with him, so they can see that he’s more alike than different. My town was very receptive to the Down syndrome awareness push and now all schools, businesses, coffee shops – you name it – in our area celebrate the day and help us spread awareness physically and digitally,” Brooke said.

 
 

About WDSD: World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) occurs every year on March 21. The significance behind the date 3/21 comes from the genetic condition itself: having 3 copies of a 21st chromosome is also known as Down Syndrome. The extra chromosome affects behaviors, appearances and mental processing time, which often leads to a need for extra help in traditional education systems. While schools have implemented special needs programs, it is important for all businesses to participate, demonstrating awareness, support and spread the belief that ‘knowledge is power.’

 

Join the campaign and rock your (crazy) socks for World Down Syndrome Day to celebrate unique differences that make the world brighter.

 

One Step At A Time: CRPD Recognized For Dedication To Community Health And Connection In 2019

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

On Thursday, Mar. 7, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) accepted an Excellence in Design award from the California Park and Recreation Society (District 2) for the fitness course addition to Lincoln Village Community Park. Beyond this, CRPD recently received an instructor training grant from the National Recreation and Park Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which allows the District to provide the Walk With Ease program to the community. This program will be held at Lincoln Village Community Park beginning April 1.

 

While CRPD’s programs have long been centers of health and wellness in the community, parks and facilities had yet to offer a free workout environment. After the Lincoln Village Community Park walking paths were upgraded last year, the Neil Orchard Senior Activities Center members expressed an interest in “gym-quality” equipment to supplement the District’s aerobic offerings. Inspired by neighboring parks and recreation agencies and their residents, CRPD launched the Outdoor Fitness Course Project: a multi-agency, non-profit partnership between the Cordova Recreation and Park District, the City of Rancho Cordova, and the Neil Orchard Senior Activities Center Advisory Board.

 

CRPD Park Planner Cristina James, the project lead, spoke to the growing popularity of outdoor fitness courses and how the course will benefit the community. “Research shows that working out in nature and sunlight triggers chemicals in your brain that help you sleep better! After we’d heard from residents about their wishes and seen more research regarding the mental and physical health benefits, we were convinced that providing an outdoor fitness course was exactly what the community needed,” Cristina said.

 

Beyond the health benefits, the District felt an outdoor fitness course would also provide a welcoming, social environment that differed from a traditional gym. “Having fitness equipment outside makes it feel like an adult playground in some ways. It was exciting to have the opportunity to transition empty space into shared, endorphins-producing space that fosters social connection between the older and younger generations,” Cristina said.

 

For this project to become a reality, CRPD relied on public outreach to shape the design of the accessible, state-of-the-art, 5-piece course, and funding from the City of Rancho Cordova’s Community Enhancement Fund. With a matching amount and in-kind labor provided by CRPD, the Lincoln Village Community Park fitness course came to life and is now able to provide an environment for thousands of residents to engage in an active lifestyle.

 

Now, with CRPD’s new Walk with Ease (WWE) program, developed by the Arthritis Foundation, District Recreation staff will receive grant-funded training to continue increasing activity in community members daily routine. Studies by the Thurston Arthritis Research Center and the Institute on Aging at the University of North Carolina have shown that WWE helps reduce pain and stiffness associated with arthritis, offers benefits for people managing other chronic conditions, contributes to reduced pain, increased balance and strength, increased levels of physical activity, and improved overall health.

 

“Walking can offer numerous health benefits to people of all ages and fitness levels. It may also help prevent certain diseases and even prolong your life. This grant from NRPA and the CDC allows us to add a new way for community residents to fulfill daily recommended exercise, and all you need to start is a sturdy pair of walking shoes,” District Administrator Patrick Larkin said.

 

As one of only 40 park and recreation agencies across the country to be awarded the WWE instructor training grant, CRPD’s fitness instructors will receive grant-funded training so they may offer the best level of service to the community. “We are extremely grateful to be the recipient of the WWE grant because it allows us to continue to help our community keep fit in mind, body and spirit,” Heather Schelske, Recreation Supervisor at the Neil Orchard Senior Activities Center, said.

 

The Walk with Ease program will be offered three times per week for six weeks by certified and trained instructors. The classes are ideally suited for seniors 50+ who are interested in a low-impact exercise program in their local community, especially those looking to manage a chronic condition. The program is scheduled to begin Monday, April 1 at 10:30 a.m. For more information, visit cordovarpd.gov/programs/active-senior.

 

Making Money Moves: CRPD partners with Golden 1 CU & CalPERS for financial wellness luncheon

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

[Rancho Cordova, CA., Feb. 28, 2019] – Last Thursday, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) hosted a Wellness Potluck Luncheon focused on financial health for all employees. Thanks to Golden 1 Credit Union and CalPERS, employees were not only given insight to the benefits of financial freedom but were also able to build relationships with these partners, creating lasting resources for their future. During this luncheon, CRPD appropriated the financial-thoughtfulness theme to raise money for the Children’s Funding Assistance program. This event showcased values of both employers: supporting staff by providing resources and opportunities in their personal and professional lives, and a commitment to giving back to the community.

 

Every year CRPD’s Human Resource Manager, Andrea White, organizes a health and wellness potluck. This year, she shifted the focus slightly to honor CRPD’s District Administrator’s theme of 2019 “health and wealth.” Coinciding with the Chinese New Year “year of the pig” philosophy, financial health is an equally important factor to consider when reviewing personal physical wellness. Researchers of social science and medicine everywhere have seen “money worries contribute to health worries,” including actual physical effects of financial stress: migraines, cardiovascular disease, insomnia, mental health (depression and mood disorder) all leading to absences from work (Nall, 2017 – everydayhealth.com).

 

Because of the health issues that can stem from financial strains (such as personal debt and home foreclosures), Andrea and CRPD felt it was evidently important to focus on helping their employees maintain financial stability, in turn eliminating any potential stress-inducing situations. To do so, Andrea looked to potential partners, specifically financial professionals, to bring awareness and education on the financial resources and benefits to her fellow employees.

 

“These potluck events really contribute to CRPD culture and the unity of our team because we don’t all get to see each other often. So, these opportunities not only give us time to socialize, recognize each other’s’ accomplishments and feel like a team, it also gives me a chance to remind people or let them know who and what their resources are,” Andrea said.

 

“Last year’s lunch focused on physical health, like joining walking groups or sports, but this year we wanted to focus on financial wellness, because we have really great partners available to us as resources. Golden 1 and CalPERS were excited to come share their knowledge with our employees and I am grateful to have them as an additional resource to me, too,” Andrea said.

 

Not only did CRPD’s Management team demonstrate financial conscientiousness at this event, they also prioritized sustainability in gifts provided and the allocation of potluck leftovers. Post-luncheon, all leftover vegetables and fruits were donated to the animals of the Hagan Community Barn. In addition, a speaker from the Golden 1 team gifted CRPD employees with local honey produced by young community entrepreneurs, students of the Folsom Cordova Unified School District.

 

Golden 1 Credit Union Membership Development Officer, Anson Call witnessed something special about CRPD’s staff during the luncheon. “What impressed me most was how CRPD’s staff was so eager to donate to the scholarship fund that offers programs to families who could not otherwise afford it. People were lining up to buy raffle tickets before they even took their seats. I have been at events before where those selling raffle tickets went from table to table to try to solicit donations. With CRPD, staff seemed to savor the opportunity to help with the scholarship program,” Call said.

 

Call also believes in the importance of partnerships being dedicated to the betterment of a community and overall providing service to others. “Golden 1 and CRPD are both about people helping people. Where CRPD helps people by encouraging them to enjoy the outdoors and be active, Golden 1 is committed to helping people by encouraging them to take a proactive role in their financial health,” Call said.

 

About CRPD: Cordova Recreation & Park District is one of the largest independent special districts in Northern California serving over 120,000 residents and four school districts in the greater Sacramento area. CRPD provides over 40 parks and recreational facilities, as well as youth & adult sports, camps, enrichment classes, educational programs and special events for the community.

 

 

Oh, the places you’ll go, if you love to read: CRPD Celebrates NEA’s Read Across America Week

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

In honor of Read Across America Week, Cordova Recreation & Park District’s District Administrator, Patrick Larkin, took it upon himself to spend his mornings reading to the children of Discovery Kids Preschool.

 

Patrick created this tradition for himself to spread the importance of reading among our community. “I truly value education initiatives like this that connect parents with their children, but also provide an opportunity to embrace the power of stories. Storytelling is vital to culture because it shaped the way history was passed down through generations. Plus, reading to them in this fun way helps them learn that reading is enjoyable. Research shows that reading for pleasure is just as important as required reading for school. It helps our youth build vocabulary, imagination and creativity. So, with that in mind, I love bringing the Cat in the Hat to our preschool kids because I get to encourage reading through the connectivity of stories,” Patrick said.

 

Patrick will attend all three Discovery Kids Preschool programs this week for story time, including March 1, the official Read Across America Day celebration for the National Education Association. Discovery Kids Preschool students will enjoy specially themed treats and crafts during each session with Patrick.

 

The National Education Association’s Read Across America Day is often celebrated on March 2, Dr. Seuss’ birthday. However, this program encapsulates much more than the famed children’s author’s date of birth. “NEA’s Read Across America is an annual reading motivation and awareness program that calls for every child in every community to celebrate reading […] NEA’s Read Across America also provides NEA members, parents, caregivers, and children the resources and activities they need to keep reading on the calendar 365 days a year,” (www.readacrossamerica.org).

 

The NEA and CRPD call for story time with your children because of its impact in educational and social development. “In our diverse and complex society, students need books that provide both windows and mirrors if we are going to create more people who feel included and recognized, and who understand that the world is far richer than just their experiences alone,” (www.readacrossamerica.org).

 

Zumbathon Fundraiser for Paradise

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

(Sacramento, CA) – On Saturday, Dec. 8, Mather Sports Center co-hosted a Zumbathon with instructors Annalisa Brown and Gerardo Martinez dedicated to the Camp Fire victims. Gathering over 100 people, the Zumbathon raised almost 4,000 dollars for the devastated families of Paradise, CA.

 

The deadliest California fire to date, the Camp Fire destroyed almost 20,000 structures and covered over 150,000 acres, including the town of Paradise. Zumba professional Annalisa Brown grew up in the town of Paradise and hoped to raise money for the families who lost everything in the fires. “We can’t resurrect the places where people made childhood memories, so I just wanted to help the families feel comfortable again. It was in my heart to provide the little things we take for granted, like tooth brushes or diapers, for these families,” Brown said.

To make this fundraiser a reality, Annalisa contacted her long-time Zumba partner and friend, Gerardo Martinez. Gerardo, the local Zumba instructor at Mather Sports Center, connected with Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) to work out event space details and was met with a surprise. “I knew space for an event like this normally has to be rented out, so when Cordova donated the space and time to our cause, it just showed us how much they care about the community and doing what is right,” Martinez said.
 

When attendee Gloria Duffy from Elk Grove learned of CRPD’s donation, she was touched. “I think the generosity of Cordova inspires the community to put on even more fundraisers, knowing we have their support is so important when putting on events like these,” Duffy said.

 

“When Gerardo asked to rent space for the event, I knew we could do more for him and the community. This tragedy impacted so many people, and I wanted to provide any resources possible for their cause. I love our team here at CRPD because leadership did not hesitate to donate the space,” Nina Sinor, Recreation Supervisor at the Mather Sports Center, said.

 

“I am thankful for my relationship with Cordova and their tremendous support. With it, we were able to raise thousands of dollars for these families and I know CRPD will have my back for future fundraisers,” Martinez said.

 

Brown, Martinez and Duffy encourage anyone who is looking to leave their stressors on the dance floor, or simply hoping to find the fun in fitness, to try Zumba and join their community. Visit www.cordovarpd.gov for more information about Gerardo’s and other Zumba classes offered by CRPD.

 

About CRPD: Cordova Recreation & Park District is one of the largest independent special districts in Northern California serving over 120,000 residents and four school districts in the greater Sacramento area. CRPD provides over 40 parks and recreational facilities, as well as athletic camps, enrichment classes, educational programs and special events for the community.

CRPD Donates 40 Gifts to Children In Need

Posted on by CRPD Communications

 

On December 17, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) staff donated 40 gifts to 10 homeless children in partnership with the Folsom Cordova Unified School District Homeless Student Services. CRPD “adopted” these four homeless families for the holiday season, reflecting a fierce commitment to their mission to serve the needs of their diverse and growing community.

 

Director of this endeavor, CRPD’s Administrative Specialist Gail Bair, reached out to the school district a few years ago to see how CRPD could help the homeless in the community. “The children we provide for are in kindergarten through high school who live locally but don’t have homes. The wonderful thing about the Homeless Student Services program is that throughout the year they provide basic needs that we take for granted like clothes, hygiene products and school supplies, for these children. So, what is magical about this partnership during this season is we can step it up a notch and help give these kids elements of a childhood with games, coloring books, stuffed animals, etc.” Bair said.

 

CRPD staff members were honored when leadership presented them with this opportunity to give back. “I love to give back because there are so many families in need out there and I have the opportunity to help them have the best Christmas possible. It’s part of why I love working here,” Office Assistant Jacqueline Yoos said.

Recreation Coordinator Chase Michelotti agrees with Yoos that the spirit of giving back is what makes CRPD such a great work environment. “Having the chance to contribute to something greater brings out the best in everyone. I believe it is the responsibility of those who can give to give, so the presence of opportunities like these is really important in my work place,” Michelotti said.

 

CRPD staff wishes these families and yours a joyous holiday and Happy New Year!