Past "What's New" Information
Due to space limitations, we cannot keep information on the "What's New" section even though the information may still have current implications. View what has been removed from the home page of the CPRS Web site below.

Removed December 28, 2007

Snapshot of Legislative Implementation Proposals For Props 84 & 1C
At the beginning of the Legislative year (2007), there were no fewer than 20 bills that proposed different allocation scenarios for the bonds approved by the voters in November 2006. CPRS believes there are three "viable" options. Click here to learn more

Aquatics Section Committee Forming - Get Involved!
The CPRS Aquatics Sections is forming a new committee to work on a drowning prevention campaign. This committee is tasked to work together to put together a comprehensive campaign utilizing current resources in order to promote aquatic safety and prevent drowning through a variety of means. For those of you who are interested in working on this committee contact Kerrilyn Ely with the Hayward Area Recreation District by email at: ElyK@haywardrec.org or call 510/881-6720.

Student Scholarships Now Available To CPRS Student Members
The California Foundation for Parks and Recreation works with the Scholarship Committee to coordinate the efforts of professionals in promoting the education of noteworthy students wishing to enter the field of service throughout the state. The Board annually awards approximately 25 scholarships to junior, senior and graduate level students majoring in recreation, parks and leisure studies throughout the state of California . For more information click here.

2008 Scholarship Applications
Scholarship applications are now available for distribution. The Aging Services and Activities Section Scholarship committee awards several scholarships to deserving students each year. Application Packets have been sent to Universities and Colleges in California, as well as Aging Section district representatives. Click here to download an application. The deadline for applications is Friday, December 14, 2007 at 5:00 p.m. Faxed applications will not be accepted.

America's Promise Alliance Announces 100 Best Communities for Young People 2008 Competition
Cities can now apply for the annual 100 Best Communities for Young People competition sponsored by America 's Promise – the Alliance for Youth.  The 2008 competition will recognize outstanding community-wide, cross-sector collaborations that improve the well-being of children and youth by delivering Five Promises: caring adults, safe places, a healthy start, an effective education and opportunities to help others.  Criteria for selecting the winning communities includes community support for children and youth, resources children and youth receive, and innovative ideas used to improve the circumstances of children and youth with an emphasis on policy, practice, and resources.  Winning communities gain national recognition and media exposure, eligibility to participate in a request for proposal process for $300,000 in grant funds, and tools and Alliance support to energize and expand local efforts.  The YEF Institute is working in partnership with the America 's Promise Alliance to promote the Five Promises through the City Platform for Strengthening Families , which has been adopted by 71 cities in 31 states .  Learn About and Apply for 100 Best Communities for Young People Competition >>

Excellence in Building Healthy Communities for Active Aging Now Taking Applications
Eligible candidates are invited to submit applications for the Excellence in Building Healthy Communities for Active Aging award. This award recognizes communities for their outstanding comprehensive approaches to implementing principles of smart growth, as well as strategies that support active aging. This award will be presented to communities with the best and most inclusive overall approach to implementing smart growth and active aging on a variety of fronts, at the neighborhood, tribe, city, county, and/or regional level. Learn more by visiting: http://epa.gov/aging/bhc/awards/bhc-awards.htm

American Planning Association - City Parks Forum Briefing Papers
The American Planning Association has published a number of briefing papers that document the value of parks and recreation to cities and counties.  These papers are formatted to provide basic information and key concepts, along with examples of cities and counties implementing those concepts.
Arts and Culture
Community Engagement
Community Revitalization
Create Safe Neighborhoods
Economic Development
Green Infrastructure
Help Children Learn
Improve Public Health
Promote Tourism
Smart Growth

Removed September 24, 2007

Funding Available For Projects That Incorporate Physical Activity
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH) PLACE Program (Policies for Livable, Active Communities and Environments) is pleased to announce the release of a Request For Initiatives (RFI) that will promote changes to the built environment (i.e. streets, parks, transportation, etc.). Successful applicants will pursue policy change (i.e. community design, land use, zoning, street standards, general plans, etc.) and physical projects (i.e. bike lanes, sidewalks, trails, traffic calming, lighting, public playgrounds, parks, etc.) that help people to incorporate physical activity into their daily lives. PLACE RFI 2007-01 solicits applications from cities, community-based organizations, schools, and for-profit organizations. DPH will fund up to five Applicants at approximately $100,000 per year for three years and five months beginning on or about February 1, 2008. The RFI and corresponding documents can be downloaded from: www.lapublichealth.org/place. Please see the attached flyer for more information. A Bidders' Conference will be held on Tuesday, September 11th from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon at: Department of Health Services, Administration Building - First Floor Auditorium, 313 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles , CA 90012

CPRS To Raise Dues September 1, 2007
Like most public agencies, the staffing and operating costs of CPRS have increased since 2001 which is the last time CPRS increased its dues. While dues increases are not necessarily popular, the Board of Directors believes the adjustment is justified and necessary for CPRS to be effective in serving the needs of our members and our profession. Click here to learn more about the additional services CPRS will offer

Removed August 16, 2007

New Rules Take Effect Requiring Agencies To Supply Automated External Defibrilators
Beginning July 1, every health studio in California is required to have an automated external defibrilator (AED) available for use. A "health studio" is defined as any facility permitting the use of its facilities and equipment to individuals or groups for physical exercise, body building, weight reducing, figure development, fitness training, or an similar purpose on a membership basis. Click here to learn more

Healthy Habits To Fight Childhood Obesity
The Alliance for a Healthier Generation is a partnership between the American Heart Association and the William J. Clinton Foundation. They have come together to fight one of our nation's leading health threats – childhood obesity. Its mission is to eliminate childhood obesity and to inspire all young people in the United States to develop lifelong, healthy habits. Their Web site has excellent resources to help agencies in the battle of obesity in their communities.  Click here to learn more

Removed June 21, 2007

Act Now! Your Letter Is Needed
Proposition 1C Park Funds May Go To Housing And Community Development
You Must Act Today, Monday, June 18, 2007. We are losing the fight on the Proposition 1C funds as the Senate may acquiesce and allow the $200 million in the Urban-Suburban-Rural Parks Program to be administered by Housing and Community Development (HCD). Please send a letter today. Click here for more information and a sample letter.

Share Your Knowledge and Benefit the Park & Recreation Profession
The 2008 CA & Pacific Southwest Recreation & Park Training Conference Call for Sessions is open!  You may apply to secure a speaking opportunity by answering the 2008 Call for Sessions by May 31, 2007. More than 2000 industry professionals come to the conference to learn, connect, renew and become equipped community-change leaders. This conference is the showcase for knowledgeable representatives and consultants who discuss difficult situations and share creative solutions. Click here to download the Call for Sessions form. For more information on the conference visit, www.cprs.org/conference-education.htm.

Removed June 11, 2007

Three-hundred Words and A Photograph Is Worth $10,000
The 2nd Annual California Governor's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports Spotlight Awards will once again honor individuals, organizations, agencies and events that positively impact the physical activity and fitness levels of California's children and youth. The Council is looking for entries that have employed innovation, inspiration and initiative to significantly impact physical activity and fitness levels of California children and youth. California's park and recreation agencies may nominate a program for the "Park and Recreation Program of the Year." Programs held from June 1, 2006 to May 31, 2007 are eligible for entry. The agency selected as the Spotlight Park & Recreation Program of the Year will receive $10,000. Click here to learn more

Attend the NRPA Congress Through The AAPRA Externship Program.
The American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration is now accepting applications for its 2007 Externships. The Externship Program enables outstanding young professionals 35 years of age and younger in the park and recreation field to interact with and learn from members of the American Academy for Park and Recreation, and other individuals who attend the NRPA Congress and its associated meetings. Up to four Externs are selected each year, two of which are part of the Academy's goal to expand diversity . Questions may be directed to Andy Kimmel, Externship Committee Chair, at 847/968-3209 or akimmel@co.lake.il.us. Click here to download the application.

Removed May 23, 2007

Trends Worth Noting:

May is National Aquatics Month
As many of you are preparing your swimming pools, waterfronts, and waterparks for the summer season do not forget to celebrate Aquatics! May is National Aquatic Month and National Water Safety Month. Sample Proclamations are available from the NRPA website www.nrpa.org in the NAB (National Aquatic Branch) area as well as from World Waterpark Association www.waterparks.org .. Members of WWA can get a Free National Water Safety Month Kit with a variety of tools to celebrate. It is not too late to celebrate your aquatics program and May is the perfect month to do so. Join me and others across the State and the country as we recognize the impact of aquatic safety and programming this month.

Hope you're ready because the Power of Play is back.  Check out the five youth transitions that shape the future of the world.  Mature adults rank recreational amenities as #1.
Click here for the March TrendSCAN

Tiger Woods Teams With Target To "Start Something"
Tiger Woods and Target are continuing their "Start Something" program in 2007.  The program offers after school programs and others a multi-part curriculum to help children identify and achieve personal goals, develop character, and learn the habit of service to others.  After completing the curriculum, with leadership from after school providers or other educators, or on their own with downloadable materials - students are eligible to apply for scholarship grants of up to $5,000 to help them further their goals. The Start Something website, http://sites.target.com/site/en/spot/page.jsp?title=startsomething , offers downloadable versions of the curriculum for students and educators, as well as grant application materials.  The next round of applications is due May 1, 2007.

Legislative Analyst Office (LAO) Releases Report on Infrastructure Bond
In November 2006, California voters approved $42.7 billion in general obligation bonds to fund infrastructure projects in transportation, education, resources and housing. The 2006 bond package represents a major opportunity for the Legislature to address many of the state's most pressing infrastructure concerns. With more than $18 billion allocated to new programs, effective legislative oversight is critical to the success of the programs. In this report, released January 22, 2007, the LAO offers key considerations and recommendations to assist the Legislature in implementing the bonds. Visit their Web site to access the entire report: http://www.lao.ca.gov/2007/2006_bonds/2006_bonds_012207.aspx

Removed May 3, 2007

Trends Worth Noting:

What's the Future of Sports and Physical Activity?  How Do Age and Economy Influence Sport Participation?  Check out the latest from Faith Popcorn, Pew Center Research, and Leisure Patterns of Older Adults
Click here for the February TrendSCAN

The New Year means New Directions - Be sure to check out the Strategic Initiatives with potential for our future.
Click here for the January TrendSCAN

Where Does Your City Fare When It Comes To Fast Food Restaurants?
Searching for Healthy Food: The Food Landscape in California Cities and Counties, documents that in 2005, the state had more than four times as many fast-food restaurants and convenience stores as supermarkets and produce vendors. Two counties (San Bernardino and Sacramento), and two cities (Bakersfield and Fresno), had nearly six times as many fast-food restaurants and convenience stores as supermarkets and produce vendors. This may be useful data when presenting plans for community gardens, food options for vending machines and concession operations. To access study documents visit CA Center for Public Health Advocacy's web site .  Study documents include:

• a policy brief which describes the study, findings and policy recommendations,
• individual facts sheets for cities and counties with populations over 250,000, and
• press materials.

Removed April 10, 2007

21 Century Funding Available To Park & Recreation Agencies
Fight Crime: Invest in Kids California is accepting applications for $70 million in new "21st Century" after-school funding. Applications are due on March 12. The application is available at http://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/ba/cp/funding.asp   21st Century dollars can support park and recreation agencies, community-based organizations as well as schools, high school-age as well as younger students. They are more flexible than Prop. 49 state dollars. For example, any public or private organization can apply directly and act as fiscal agent. For more information, download a one page fact sheet ( www.cprs.org/pdf/21stFacts.pdf ). Please feel free to contact Brian Lee at Fight Crime: Invest in Kids ( blee@calfightcrime.org or 510/836-2050 x307) with any questions.

New Study Shows Two-Thirds Of Youth Not Getting Resources Needed To Succeed
A new study released by America 's Promise – the Alliance for Youth finds that when youth are provided with at least four out of five fundamental resources, their chances for success dramatically increase and damaging racial and economic gaps are significantly reduced.  The data also show that more than two-thirds of youth are not currently receiving enough of these resources.  The in-depth study, Every Child, Every Promise: Turning Failure Into Action , measures the presence and impact of Five Promises that affect the development of youth: caring adults; safe places; a healthy start; effective education; and opportunities to help others.  The Alliance has issued a call to action outlining recommendations for policymakers and other sectors that impact the lives of children and youth. Click here to learn more.

America's Promise Alliance Names Five California Agencies "One of 100 Best Communities for Young People"
The Alliance for Youth is pleased to announce that the cities of Brentwood, Irvine, Long Beach, San Ramon, and Santa Clarita and the Georgetown Divide Recreation District are  winners of a national competition to identify the 100 Best Communities for Young People.  The 100 Best competition honors communities – ranging from small towns to urban neighborhoods across America – for their commitment to provide healthy, safe and caring environments for young people.  Hundreds of communities in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands took part in the competition. Visit www.americaspromise.org for more information.

Removed January 6, 2007

Land and Water Conservation Fund State Assistance Program to Receive Dedicated Funding by Action of Congress
NRPA has prepared a fact sheet and Legislative Analysis: HR 6111/S.3711
In the waning hours of the 109th Congress one of the final bills passed, HR 6111, was a tax credit and trade promotion bill that contained the entire text of S.3711, the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act of 2006. The bill as approved by Congress and sent to the president, who has indicated he will sign it, allows expansion of off-shore oil and gas drilling in the eastern Gulf of Mexico. The legislation will dedicate 37.5 percent of lease royalty revenues to four Gulf states, Florida, Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana, for coastal conservation, as well as 12.5 percent of royalty revenues to the Land and Water Conservation Fund state assistance program for distribution to all states. To read the entire fact sheet, visit the NRPA Web site (http://www.nrpa.org/content/default.aspx?documentId=5068).

Parks & Recreation: Being Recognized as Vital Partners in Health & Wellness
In 1960 America spent 5.1% of the Gross Domestic Product on health care; in 2003 the portion was 15.3%, at a total of $1.7 trillion! As a nation and state we are just beginning to confront the immense cost of caring for a growing obese population. The aging of baby boomers is expected to add significantly to the number of individuals who are obese and the subsequent health consequences of diabetes, depression, heart disease, and cancer will only increase. Please view the Health & Wellness Policy adopted by CPRS, click here.

Removed December 18, 2006

November 7 Election Update
We thought the commercials would never end but they did! For the latest updates on the statewide election, click on this link to the Secretary of State's website. http://vote.ss.ca.gov/

CPRS supported and opposed several of the statewide propositions:
Proposition 1C - CPRS supported - Passed
Proposition 1D  - CPRS supported - Passed
Proposition 84 - CPRS supported - Passed
Proposition 86 - CPRS supported - Failed
Proposition 90 - CPRS opposed - Failed

For the first time CPRS endorsed a number of candidates for State Assembly and Senate. Each of the candidates CPRS endorsed was successful in their election!

New State Assembly Members That Were Endorsed by CPRS:
(D) Jared Huffman, Attorney - District 6
(D) Lois Wolk, Assemblymember 8 th District (re-elected) - District 8
(D) Cathleen Galgiani, Chief of Staff, Assemblymember Barbara Matthews - District 17
(D) John Laird, Assemblymember 27 th District (re-elected) - District 27
(R) Jean Fuller, School Superintendent - District 32
(R) Cameron Smyth, Councilmember - District 38
(D) Julia Brownley, School Board President - District 41
(D) Mike Davis, Senior Deputy - District 48
(D) Wilmer Amina Carter, Educational Consultant - District 62
(R) Kevin Jeffries, Investor & Fire Department Manager - District 66
(R) Bonnie Garcia, Assemblymember 80 th District (re-elected) - District 80

New State Senators That Were Endorsed by CPRS:
(D) Patricia Wiggins , CA Integrated Waste Management Board Member - District 2
(D) Darrell Steinberg, Attorney - District 6

Removed November 8, 2006

Student Scholarships Available - Deadline is October 26, 2006
The California Foundation for Parks and Recreation works with the Scholarship Committee to coordinate the efforts of professionals in promoting the education of noteworthy students wishing to enter the field of service throughout the state. The Board annually awards approximately 30 scholarships to junior, senior and graduate level students majoring in recreation, parks and leisure studies. If you are interested please click here to download the application.
For more information on the application process, click here.

NRPA Releases Call to Action for all Park Providers
In May 2006 NRPA co-sponsored the Summit on Urban Parks and Recreation with the Trust for Public Land and the City Parks Alliance in Chicago . The Summit was a huge success.  Over 400 attended, including the directors of 40 of the top 50 largest park and recreation systems in urban areas in the country.  Attendees adopted this Call to Action. Local agencies are encouraged to share this Call to Action with their boards and commissions as well as their policy boards and encourage local adoption of the Call to Action. For further information, contact Rich Dolesh , Director of Public Policy, National Recreation and Park Association, RDolesh@nrpa.org . Click here to download the Call to Action.

SAVE THE DATE! School Wellness Policy Implementation Workshops
The theme for the workshop is: Policy in Action: Implementation and Evaluation of Your Local School Wellness Policy. The workshops will be held throughout California, starting October 23 - December 6, 2006. Participants will be able to:

• Identify the critical steps in implementing a local wellness policy and communicating the policies implemented
• Develop an implementation plan for each component of the policy
• Identify resources and technical assistance needed to ensure the successful implementation of the wellness policies
• Identify strategies for monitoring and evaluating the impact of the wellness policies

For more information on workshop dates and places, click here.

Agencies Needed to Participate in Background Screen Survey – Potential for Reimbursements from the State
CPRS continues to partner with the City of Los Angeles on a revised time study that will give YOU the opportunity to seek reimbursement for background screenings of employees and volunteers. For more information on the program, click here.  

New LandVote, Parks Data Posted
Trust for Public Land (TPL) has posted new data in two popular resources on urban parks and conservation finance. TPL's comparative survey of urban park systems nationwide now includes data from 143 agencies within the 56 largest cities in the United States . TPL's online LandVote database of conservation finance measures nationwide now includes an additional 11 years of data, back to 1988. The data is collected and maintained by TPL's Center for City Park Excellence and Center for Conservation Finance.
LandVote Database
City Park Facts
Center for Conserservation Finance
Center for City Park Excellence

Removed September 21, 2006

Sun Safety Awareness
Here are some easy tips to promote sun-safety practices in your recreation programs. Although written for school programs, these tips can easily be adapted to the park and recreation field. Click here to download.

Going To Congress In Seattle? Get In The California Housing Block
California Housing Block at the NRPA Congress is now open. NRPA Congress will be held at the Washington State Convention & Trade Center, in Seattle, Washington, October 10-14, 2006. The housing block is at the Red Lion & Crowne Plaza. Click here to download a housing form.

California State Parks Releases Recreation Policy Brief To Promote Value of Parks & Recreation
A new 2005 California Recreation Policy, highlighted at the recent CPRS Conference, considers the full range of recreation activities - active, passive, indoors and out-of-doors. Further, it considers the means by which recreational opportunities are provided - the lands, waters, facilities, programs and support functions - and it recognizes the considerable health, personal, social, economic and environmental benefits served through the many important dimensions of recreation. The policy was developed by California State Parks' Planning Division and the State Park and Recreation Commission with the help of a team of local, state, federal and commercial park professionals. The group encouraged park and recreation professionals to share the Recreation Policy with their boards, commissions, legislators and other decision makers advocating on behalf of funding, facilities, operations and on-going support. For a copy of the 2005 CA Recreation Policy, visit http://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/795/files/recpolicy.pdf or call 916/653-9901 and copies will be sent to you. For more information, please contact 916/651-8691.

Removed August 14, 2006

What Economic Indicators Could Affect Parks & Recreation?
Click here to view the July 2006 trendSCAN, which contains information on Signs of the Times, Economic Updates, Changing Patterns and Preferences, and Thinking Outside of the Box: Ending Homelessness.

Removed June 29, 2006

Spotlight Your Agency's Programs On The Governor's Council Program
The Governor's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports is looking to shine a spotlight on individuals, organizations and events that employ innovation, inspiration and initiative to positively impact physical activity, fitness levels and the well being of California children and youth. Specifically, the Governor's Council is looking for Park Programs (click here for sample categories)  – those innovative local, regional or state park programs (either a single program or a series) that engage California children and youth in fun and habit forming physical activities. We are looking to spotlight those programs (either a single event or a series) that were conducted between June 1, 2005 and May 30, 2006 . Nominate one or more of your park programs by completing the 2006 Spotlight Nomination Form (click here to download form) by June 6, 2006 . You may submit your entry via email to jane@cprs.org or via fax to 916/665-9149. Any questions? Contact either Angie Avery at aavery@downeyca.org , 562/904-7241 or Jane Adams at jane@cprs.org , 916/665-2777.

Share Your Knowledge With The Rest Of California
Three different training programs for CPRS members are in the planning stages and are gathering proposals for educational sessions. If you would like to present at any or all of the upcoming educational sessions, please download the appropriate forms.
CPRS Administrators Insitute in Monterey, November 5-9, 2006, Click here for Call for Session Proposal Form. Due June 30, 2006.
Aging/Therapeutic Recreation Annual Institute in Sacramento, March 7, 2007. Click here for Call for Session Proposal Form. Due to June 30, 2006.
2007 California & Pacific Southwest Recreation & Park Training Conference in Sacramento, March 8-10, 2007. Click here for the Call for Session Proposal Form and the Fact Sheet: Training and Learning Objectives. Due May 31, 2006.

Removed May 30, 2006

Estimating the Need for Parks and Recreation in the US
In October, 2005, National Park Service asked each state to estimate their unmet need for LWCF grants for the past fiscal year. With all fifty states responding, the demand for recreation facilities and parks was strong: the total unmet national need was estimated at $2.8 billion. Click here to view a PDF of nationwide needs. To view some of the projects LWCF funded in California, click here.

Decrease Injuries, Accidents and Illness At Your Day Camps
American Camp Association (ACA) has gained funding to do a 5 year tracking of illnesses and injuries among campers and staff in day and resident camps across the country - and they want to include camps that represent the broad spectrum of camp programs in America - not just the ones in their "membership." A by-product of participating in the survey can result in a reduction in injuries, accidents and illness at your day camps, For more information, click here.

Another Successful Conference Is Over
Thank you to all CPRS members who attended the California & Pacific Southwest Recreation & Park Training Conference in Ontario, March 16-18, 2006. Early indications showed an increase in registration and talk around the convention center was that the City of Ontario and the many volunteers helped make the conference a wonderful experience. Conference handouts are now available on the CPRS Web site, click here to download any handouts you may have missed.

TrendSCAN Takes A Look At Ideas From Annual Conference
Stats and other information such as those featured in trendSCAN serve as a framework for discussing issues and examining priorities. However, they shouldn’t be used as the only input and insight for such discussions. Listed in this version of trendSCAN are some of the insight, comments, and concerns of conference attendees related to recent trends. Click here to view the March issue.

CPRS Would Like To Remind You And Encourage Your Participation In A Pair Of Free Youth Skills Programs!
It’s not too late! Don't miss out on a great opportunity to participate in the official youth skills competition of the U.S. Olympic Team. Hosting a competition is FREE & easy to administrate. For more information, click here.

Removed May 18, 2006

Leg Alert - Let The Legislature Know Your Opinion On Infrastructure Bond
The California State Senate continues in the grip of a protracted stalemate on a comprehensive infrastructure spending plan for the state. On March 15, the Senate convened for the sole purpose of deliberating on the infrastructure bond. Earlier in the day, it was anticipated that general consensus had been reached between the parties and a deal was in the works. However, it is rumored that the administration intervened in the 11th hour and pulled Senate Republicans off the bonds in hopes of forging a better proposal in the Assembly side. A number of Senators continue to fight the good fight for CPRS included Senators Murray, Escutia, Kuehl, Perata and Chesbro but all senators must hear from you. For more information on the alert and sample letters you use please click here.

Removed April 21, 2006

CPRS Identifies Needs of Park Providers
To investigate the infrastructure needs of local park providers, CPRS conducted an Infrastructure Needs Survey in January 2006. Questions were asked about the funding needs of cities, counties, and special districts; agency participation in Prop 40; perceptions about greatest funding needs for the future; availability of funding to address needs; and challenges facing local park and recreation providers. Of the more than 130 agency respondents, CPRS learned that local government park providers view their greatest funding needs as capital improvements and major rehabilitation to their existing infrastructure (parks, recreation facilities). For more details on the results of the survey click here.

New State Board of Directors Elected!
Congratulations to the newly elected 2006-07 CPRS Board of Directors. New Board members are:

• Vice President: Angie Avery, City of Downey
• Region 1 Rep: Lisa Rudloff, Sunrise Recreation & Park District
• Region 3 Rep: Bob Brown, City of Hanford
• Region 5 Rep: Jonathan Jones, City of Beverly Hills

On behalf of Sheila Canzian, CPRS President, we thank all the candidates for their interest in serving on the CPRS Board of Directors. We had a simply "stellar" list of candidates. For a complete list of Board members and contact information click here.

Congratulations To The Winners of 2007 Conference Registrations
Winners of the "Yes I Voted" contest are George Brunson, Recreation Supervisor, City of Belmont and Dean Rodia, Senior Maintenance Supervisor, City of Costa Mesa. Each wins a conference registration to the 2007 California & Pacific Southwest Recreation & Park Training Conference in Sacramento. CPRS Members who voted in the recent State Board Elections were asked to send in an entry into a drawing for a free 2007 California & Pacific Southwest Recreation & Park Training Conference registration. Congratulations to George and Dean.

Removed February 16, 2006

Your Voice Is Needed NOW!
As reported in news headlines, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and legislative leaders are currently negotiating a major infrastructure bond package that, presently, contains no guaranteed urban or local parks funding. As local park and recreation providers, it is important to let the Governor and the Legislature know right now that urban parks are an essential element of the State’s infrastructure, and ask that $1 billion be earmarked for urban parks in any infrastructure bond that moves forward. Click here for more infomation on what you can do.

Governor Misses Opportunity to Address Parks, Open Space & Trails
CPRS is perplexed by recent actions of the Governor and is in complete agreement with a January 8, 2006, Sacramento Bee editorial, “Does Schwarzenegger’s plan make the grade?” wherein the plan was given a grade of “F” under the category of open space and parks. To read the entire editorial please click here.

Removed January 31, 2006

Infrastructure Bond Proposal Has Park & Recreation Implications
SB 1024 seeks to address California’s infrastructure challenges with respect to transportation, housing, water quality and flood control. Click here to read an outline of background materials provided by the Senate Housing and Transportation Committee as to the funding SB 1024 provides for such items as transportation, flood protection, and transit-oriented development.

You Can Help Disaster Relief From Hurricane Katrina
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) has launched a national campaign to assist park and recreation agencies, staff and communities suffering damages inflicted by Hurricane Katrina. While damage in the hardest hit areas of Louisiana and Mississippi, Alabama and Florida are still being assessed, NRPA is rallying for donations of cash and volunteerism to offer immediate disaster relief and future recovery assistance.
Your donation of cash, equipment or in-kind assistance, whether immediate or in the near future, will be received by NRPA and connected with communities in greatest need. As specific requirements are more clearly defined by the affected agencies, NRPA will partner with state park and recreation associations, local agencies and public officials to distribute 100% of the donations received. Examples of how donations may be applied include provision of temporary housing, food, water and utilities for park and recreation professionals; clean-up campaigns; recreation relief efforts; damage assessment; rebuild and restoration efforts and more. Visit the NRPA Web site to learn more. (http://www.nrpa.org/katrina)

CDC's Health Research Guide
The Centers for Disease Control issued a draft of its Health Protection Research Guide on November 18, 2005. The CDC Office of Public Health Research is accepting comments on this agency-wide research agenda until January 15, 2006. The NRPA Public Policy office will work in conjunction with interested members to provide NRPA comments on this new initiative that focuses on the agency's strategies and proposals to address obesity and health promotion through recreation. Contact Monica Hobbs Vinluan for further Information mvinluan@nrpa.org

Removed January 17, 2006

How Does Your Afterschool Program Compare To Others Statewide
The Center for Community School Partnerships at the University of California Davis, School of Education has recently completed a study of California's Afterschool and Safety Education (ASES) Program and 21st Century Community Learning Center grantees. The findings suggest the current structure of required evaluation process does not facilitate efficient evaluation practices at the site level. Recommendations include allocating resources specifically for supporting program evaluation activities and further consideration of what constitutes appropriate required program elements, outcomes and measures for California's afterschool programs. For more information and links to the reports click here.

Job Interview Questions Compiled And Now Available On The CPRS Web Site
During the summer CPRS requested agencies share interview questions that they used for various positions. Well over 400 questions were received and CPRS thanks all those agencies who responded. The questions were catagorized into seven areas and are now available to CPRS members. Visit the CPRS Job Center to see the categories and sample questions. www.cprs.org/JobCenter-interviewquestions.htm.

An Additional 100 Items Added To The Information and Referral Area Of The CPRS Web Site
Another 100 items have been added to the Information and Referral area to provide resources to agencies. New sections include: Aquatic Resources, Health Requirements, Filming Use, and Subsidy Funding. Current sections that received a large number of samples include: Art in Public Places; Facility Use; Volunteer Resources; Youth Development; and Joint Use, Agreements & MOUs. Click here to see an alphabetical listing of resources available for download.

Removed January 9, 2006

New Tool Simplifies Local Wellness Policy Writing
Action for Healthy Kids is pleased to announce that after months of development and testing, the Wellness Policy Tool is now available on its Web site , www.actionforhealthykids.org/resources.php. Created in collaboration with many partner organizations and Action for Healthy Kids State Team members, the searchable database of policies (state and district) can help guide the drafting of local wellness policies. The tool has an easy-to-use template, a listing of fundamental elements to consider including in your policy, and access to hundreds of individual policy components that can be cut and pasted into the template to create a local wellness policy unique to each district. The extensive database is easily searchable by the five wellness policy topic areas specified in the Child Nutrition Act: nutrition education goals; physical activity goals; nutrition standards for all foods and beverages; other school-based wellness activities; and governance and evaluation. Visit this site area often, as they will be updating the database as new policies emerge and additional tools and helpful information will be posted.

Learn More About The Growing Latino Population
The Pew Hispanic Center/Kaiser Family Foundation 2002 National Survey of Latinos explored the attitudes and experiences of Latinos on a wide variety of topics. The survey sample was designed to include enough Hispanics from various backgrounds and national origin groups so that in addition to describing Latinos overall, comparisons also could be made among segments of the Hispanic population. Click here to view the survey brief.

Removed October 17, 2005

Send us your interview questions!
One of CPRS’ goals is to support your career advancement. Interviewing is a key step in your career advancement. We’d like to gather questions asked during job interviews and make them available to you on the CPRS website. Send us some of your typical interview questions you ask candidates. We are interested in questions asked of administrative or managerial positions (director, assistant director, superintendent, manager); supervisory positions (center director, supervisor, coordinator); or staff positions (secretary, administrative assistant, coordinator, or leader). Send in your interview questions to Jane H. Adams, CPRS Executive Director, at jane@cprs.org

CPRS Communicates Legislative Priorities to State Legislators
On August 25, 2005, CPRS distributed a list of its key legislative priorities and our position on these bills to each member of the State Legislature (Download document here). This action reminds legislators that CPRS tracks votes on our issues and we record those votes on our Legislative Score Card which is published at the conclusion of each 2 year legislative session. You can track how your legislator has voted on these bills by visiting the CPRS Legislative Action Center at http://capwiz.com/caparks/state/main/?state=CA.

Attention Students!!! Scholarship Program Now Looking For Qualified Candidates
The California Foundation for Parks and Recreation works with the Scholarship Committee to coordinate the efforts of professionals in promoting the education of noteworthy students wishing to enter the park and recreation field. The Board annually awards approximately 30 scholarships to junior, senior and graduate level students majoring in recreation, parks and leisure studies throughout the state of California. Applications are due in October so download your application from the CPRS Web site.

CPRS Candidate PAC In Action
The CPRS Candidate PAC recently made its first contributions to candidates for state office. The CPRS Candidate PAC Committee (Don Allen, Chair; Terry Jewell, Phil Hester, & Pat O'Brien) authorized contributions to Assemblywoman Judy Chu, Assembly District 49 and Assemblymember Tom Harman, Assembly District 67. Chu serves Alhambra, El Monte, South El Monte, Monterey Park, Rosemead, San Gabriel and San Marino; she is currently Chair Assembly Appropriations Committee. Chu is running for re-election. Harman serves Huntington Beach, Anaheim, Cypress, Westminster, Seal Beach, Garden Grove, La Palma, Los Alamitos and Stanton. Harman is the author of AB 1144, a CPRS sponsored bill on playground safety regulations. He is running for State Senate.
Mark Your Calendar!
The CPRS Candidate PAC is hosting its first social! CPRS Candidate PAC will host a networking social on Wednesday, September 28, 2005 for candidates Assemblyman Tom Harman and Dianne Harmon. Assemblyman Tom Harman is a candidate for the State Senate and Diane Harman, a first time candidate, is running to represent Assembly District 67. She is the spouse of the current Assemblymember. This event will be held in Northern California. Watch for registration information for this great event!
Contribute Today To The CPRS Candidate PAC!
Help support candidates for office that believe in the value of parks and recreation! Help CPRS broaden its legislative influence! You can contribute to the CPRS Candidate PAC today! (http://www.cprs.org/pdf/CandidatePACContribution.pdf)

CPRS Communicates Legislative Priorities to State Legislators
On August 25, 2005, CPRS distributed a list of its key legislative priorities and our position on these bills to each member of the State Legislature (Download document here). This action reminds legislators that CPRS tracks votes on our issues and we record those votes on our Legislative Score Card which is published at the conclusion of each 2 year legislative session. You can track how your legislator has voted on these bills by visiting the CPRS Legislative Action Center at http://capwiz.com/caparks/state/main/?state=CA.

Removed September 23, 2005

Your Programs That Promote Healthy Eating and Increased Activity Are Needed
CPRS is participating in a series of regional forums throughout California for locally elected officials. “Building Leadership for Healthy Living/Active Living Leadership Initiative,” is intended for city councils, county boards of supervisors and school board members to identify programs, policies and partnerships that are working. These workshops will be held this fall at six locations: Coachella Valley, South Central LA, West Orange Co., Stockton, Marysville/Yuba City, and one TBD. CPRS knows many agencies are engaged in promoting health and wellness especially for children and youth. We want to gather examples of existing policies, programs, and practices from cities, counties, special districts and schools that aim to promote healthy eating and physical activity, especially for children and youth. Are their particular innovations within your agency you’d like to get state-wide attention? Please answer a few questions and we’ll include your information on a web-based directory of promising policies and practices.Click here to download a form and return to Jane H. Adams, CPRS Executive Director.

Report Shows Well-Being of Chidren Throughout Nation
America's Children: Key National Indicators of Well-Being, 2005 is a biennial report to the Nation on the condition of children in America. Nine contextual measures describe the changing population, family, and environmental context in which children are living, and 25 indicators depict the well-being of children in the areas of economic security, health, behavior and social environment, and education. This year's report has special features on children with asthma, children with specified blood lead levels, and parental reports of children’s emotional and behavioral difficulties. In addition, the report includes a special section on family structure and the well-being of children. The composite picture presented by the report notes recent improvements in child well-being as well as continuing challenges. The adolescent birth rate has reached a record low, the death rate for children between ages 1 and 4 is the lowest ever, and young children are more likely to receive their recommended immunizations. At the same time, children are also more likely to live in poverty and infants are more likely to be of low birthweight. This year’s report includes special features on lead in the blood of children, asthma, parental reports of emotional and behavioral difficulties and a special section on family structure and children’s well-being. http://childstats.gov/americaschildren/

Learn to Position Your Agency Within Your Community at League of California Cities Conference
Learning how your Community Services Programs can gain greater respect and more resources in your city gaining ideas on how to transform your community services into a vital economic resources and assets to your city, making contacts to enhance your knowledge and improve your services to the public, obtaining insights from the experiences of others that will translate into more effective, community services programs that are more inclusive. Download the conference announcement here, download a registration form here or visit the League Web site here.

Removed September 14, 2005

CPRS Communicates Legislative Priorities to State Legislators
On August 25, 2005, CPRS distributed a list of its key legislative priorities and our position on these bills to each member of the State Legislature (Download document here). This action reminds legislators that CPRS tracks votes on our issues and we record those votes on our Legislative Score Card which is published at the conclusion of each 2 year legislative session. You can track how your legislator has voted on these bills by visiting the CPRS Legislative Action Center at http://capwiz.com/caparks/state/main/?state=CA.

CPRS Sponsored Resolution on Role of Parks & Recreation in Obesity Passes Assembly Floor
Assemblywoman Wilma Chan's ACR 77 sailed off the Assembly Floor Wednesday, August 31, with a 52-0 vote. To read the text of the resolution click here. This measure would recognize the importance of local recreation and park agencies in the effort to reverse negative trends in inactivity, obesity, diabetes, and other health problems among Californians and encourages the state to utilize and partner with local recreation and park providers to create a healthier state. Please take a moment and thank your Assemblymember for voting for this important resolution. To find your Assemblymember, visit http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/yourleg.html.

Park and Recreation Professionals' Opinions Are Needed In Web Forum
A web-based forum to engage coalition leaders to discuss strategies for leveraging local action to advance state policy. With the Governor’s Summit on Health, Nutrition and Obesity planned for mid September, we have a critical opportunity to organize and promote our collective agenda for a healthier California. The web forum will provide an opportunity to consider strategies, such as media advocacy and local organizing, for building the movement for healthy food and activity environments in preparation for the Governor’s Summit and beyond. The Strategic Alliance for Healthy Food and Activity Environments will lead the forum by introducing Taking Action for a Healthier California: Recommendations to Improve Healthy Food and Activity Options. The forum is August 23, 2005, 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. For more information on click here.

Variety of Subjects Covered In August TrendSCAN
See what sports are going "extreme"
Boomers Not As Old As We May Think - see the stats
More information on the alarming increase in youth inactivity
Check out this month's trendSCAN to learn more.

Removed September 1, 2005

Governor Schwarzenegger Announces Governor's Summit On Health, Nutrition And Obesity
As part of his reform agenda for California, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger announced the Governor's Summit on Health, Nutrition and Obesity to Shape Up California by bringing together California's public and private sector leaders to fight California's obesity epidemic. At this first-of-its-kind Action Summit, taking place in Sacramento on September 15, 2005, leaders and experts from the business, transportation, education, government, and public health communities will stand with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and commit to making reforms that will improve California's health and well-being. For more information and to get involved click here.

Add Your Parks To The California Governor’s Council On Physical Fitness And Sports
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger launched the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports Web site, www.ActiveCA.org, on June 10th at Disneyland. CPRS President-elect Pamela Yugar represented CPRS at this exciting event. The Web site contains a wealth of information on places and programs for all Californians to get active. This is a highly visible location to promote your parks! CPRS encourages each park and recreation agency to send a completed Excel spreadsheet to Gerald@calgovcouncil.org so the Council will ad your parks to their database. All you have to provide is the name of the park, its specific street address and zip code. Click here to download the template.

Assess Your Leadership Skills Against Other Park & Recreation Professionals
Take the online leadership profile questionnaire sponsored by CPRS and Peopleassets to see how you compare to top performers in the field. By learning your strengths and weakness you can improve your marketability for job advancement. You will also be able to assess your leadership style and help establish a road map for planning goals. According to Mark Honberger, Recreation Supervisor, City of Tracy, "After approximately 100 questions and a half hour of my time, I was given valuable feedback on my leadership effectiveness. I was then given leadership development tools that I could apply to my everyday work. I am recommending that my coordinators use the Peopleassets program as a training tool." To determine your leadership profile visit www.peopleassets.net/cprs/.

California Room Blocks Availabe For NRPA Congress
If you are attending the NRPA National Conference in San Antonio, October 18-22, 2005 and would like to stay with other California delegates, please download the Housing Reservation form. Deadline is September 6 or when the room block is filled.

Legislators in Summer Recess – Take Advantage of Their Being Home
CPRS seeks your assistance to advance three legislative proposals that will raise the awareness of parks and recreation in promoting health and wellness (ACR 77 – CPRS sponsored); align California’s playground state regulations with nationally recommended safety guidelines for playground equipment (AB 1144 - CPRS sponsored) and place a clean water, safe neighborhood parks, and coastal protection bond act on the June 2006 ballot (SB 153 – CPRS heavily involved). Each of these initiatives will assist you in positioning your services with decision makers and stakeholders, improve your operations, and bring critical financial resources. We ask that you take action which is simply taking the sample letters provided and sending them to the bill author(s) with copies to your respective State Senators and Assembly members. It’s that easy! If you need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Jane H. Adams, jane@cprs.org, 916/665-2777. Take action today! Download sample letters and background information here.

Obesity Problem Has Reach Epidemic Levels. Governor Speaks On Issue During Weekly Radio Broadcast
To view his entire message on childhood obesity please click here.

Use Your Local Media To Tout Importance of Parks & Recreation
CPRS has a sample press release pertaining to the importance of local parks to a community. Download the press release to use in your community.

Removed August 1, 2005

Your Assistance Is Needed For A Sign-On Letter to Preserve Funding for Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)
Late last month the Senate approved restoration of $30 million for the LWCF state assistance program in the Interior Appropriations bill. The House had voted to strip all funding for the state assistance program, as well as drastically cut the federal side of the program following a proposal by the President to terminate the state assistance program in the FY 2006 budget. While the Senate-approved $30 million in their version of the bill, this is only a third of the funds that have been allotted to this program every year for the last five years. This funding level will keep the program alive and offer some progress in local projects. Please help the Land and Water Conservation Fund state assistance emerge this fiscal year with hope for the future and avoid further damage. We have less than three weeks to convince Congress of the merits of adopting the higher Senate funding level. Click here for more information on how you can help.

Communities in All 50 States Vying To Be One of the "100 Best for Young People"
America's Promise--The Alliance for Youth is proud to announce that communities from all 50 states have registered for the "100 Best Communities for Young People" honor. The first-of-its-kind competition was kicked off in May by America's Promise Founding Chairman General Colin L. Powell (Ret) as a way to recognize communities that want to help their young people realize their full potential. Cities and Towns in All 50 States Now Competing To Be One of the "100 Best Communities for Young People" Communities have until July 29th to register for the competition and submit their qualifications to be named one of the nation's best places for young people. For more information click here.

Promote Your Programs To Teens Through Text Messages
The CDC and The VERB campaign has partnered to create a promotion using text messaging/instant messaging as the delivery mechanism. Kids will have the chance to sign up their cell phones for text messaging and/or their desktop instant messenger -- in exchange, they will receive cool text/instant messages all summer long about new promotions and events in their area. For more information click here. But hurry, the deadline has been extended to July 29, 2005.

Removed July 27, 2005

More Resources Available To Help You Save Time
The CPRS Information and Referral area on the CPRS Web site has an additional 60 resources to help park and recreation professionals in their daily work. New topic areas include: Amusement Use, Budgets, Facility Use, Order Forms, and Organizational Charts. Be sure to check out this invaluable resource area to see if there are any documents that you can use.

CPRS Announces The Creation Of The CPRS Candidate PAC
The CPRS Candidate PAC (Political Action Committee) was formed to support candidates for state office who recognize the value of parks and recreation for all Californians and who are willing to listen to us about the important role recreation and parks plays in creating community through people, parks and programs. Read more about the CPRS Candidate PAC and see how you can contribute to its success.

The Rivers, Trails & Conservation Assistance (RTCA) Program of National Park Service provides technical assistance to communities working to conserve rivers and open space, and to establish trails and greenways.
The RTCA Program recently announced an invitation for proposals for its next fiscal year, which begins October 1, 2005. You can download an electronic newsletter, which includes a list of current projects, application guidelines, and local contacts for Hawai'i, southern California, Nevada, and regional office in Oakland (http://www.ncrc.nps.gov/rtca/). We will consider requests for technical assistance for new and continuing projects. The deadline for applications is August 1, 2005. The purpose of the Rivers and Trails Program is to empower local communities to achieve locally defined goals for natural resource conservation and outdoor recreation. In keeping with the NPS mission, we encourage proposals for "network" projects - those that create physical connections in and between parks and communities and that contribute to local, regional and state networks of parks, rivers, trails, greenways and open spaces. They have a particularly interested in projects that incorporate health and fitness goals as part of outdoor recreation planning.
These initiatives are further explained in their newsletter, which is available on-line. If you have questions or need help developing a proposal, please call 510/817-1449 or e-mail to Barbara_Rice@nps.gov.

Training Scholarship Available for California Parks & Recreation
The Chronic Disease Directors, the University of South Carolina Prevention Research Center, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are pleased to announce the availability of the Anne Seeley Scholarship, which will enable a person outside the field of public health to attend the annual Physical Activity and Public Health Practitioners' Course on Community Interventions. The course will be held September 15-21, 2005, at the Sea Pines Resort and Conference Center in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Click here for more information.

Removed May 9, 2005

Resources Galore - Check out this Web site
The Community Tool Box provides over 6,000 pages of practical information to support your work in promoting community health and development. The Web site, created and maintained by the Work Group on Health Promotion and Community Development at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas (U.S.A), was developed in collaboration with AHEC/Community Partners in Amherst, Massachusetts. Visit their Web site at http://ctb.ku.edu/index.jsp.

National Park Planners Conference Comes To Folsom, California
NARRP is particularly pleased to be working with the National Association of State Outdoor Recreation Liaison Officers (NASORLO) and California State Parks to present the 2005 conference, May 2-4, 2005 in Folsom, CA. The theme is "Healthy Landscapes, Healthy People" and the program offers an agenda that will interest recreation planners from all levels of government as well as the private sector. Download a brochure at www.narrp.org/conference/index.html.

Back By Popular Demand -
The Cal-ICMA Coaching Program can help get your career on the fast track to senior management.Experienced city and county managers developed a FREE coaching program designed to prepare aspiring managers to tackle the challenges and reap the benefits of an executive level career. For more information click here.

Removed April 25, 2005

AHS Volunteer of the Year Nominations Sought by April 15th
American Hiking Society seeks nominations for this year's Volunteer of the Year awards. Nine regional awards will be selected and one of these nine regional winners will be chosen "National Volunteer of the Year." The work for which s/he is being nominated must benefit hikers and/or the hiking experience. For more details or to nominate your volunteer, go to www.americanhiking.org/events/ntd/awards.html. The deadline for nominations is April 15, 2005. If you have questions please contact Shirley Hearn at 800/972-8608, ext. 206 or by Shearn@AmericanHiking.org

Arizona Parks & Recreation To Offer Two-day Training For 50+ Programming
This two-day, interactive regional workshop for senior recreation programmers is in its second year and would be a great forum for any professionals who work with the 50+ age group. The Blending of Generations: Serving Baby Boomers and Older Seniors Successfully will explore topics including “Who is the new senior? What do they what?” Marketing questions like “Where are they and how do we reach and excite them?” and programming questions like “How do we attract the new senior and still service our current customer?” and “The Blending of the old and new – can we do it and if so how?”
Click here to download a registration brochure.

Get the latest information about arsenic-treated (CCA) wood from the Safe Playgrounds Project
As of January 1, 2004, the manufacture of Chromated Copper Arsenate-treated wood for most residential uses was stopped in the United States. However, there are many existing structures made of CCA wood still in use. Find out more about the Safe Playgrounds Project here.

Removed March 30, 2005

2005's Hottest Trends
March's trendSCAN looks at Health Issues, Out of School Activities and Environment's Influence on Physical Activity.

"We Create Community Parade and Rally" in State Capitol
Thousands of Parks and Recreation Professionals and Volunteers Called on the Governor and Legislature to Fight Costly Obesity Epidemic.
The “We Create Community Parade and Rally” included thousands of parks and recreation professionals and citizens from across the state as well as Arizona, Hawaii, Nevada and Utah who marched from Memorial Auditorium to the west steps of the Capitol to join with leading state legislators. The rally featured a call for an increased investment in the parks and programs to get Californians healthy and active as part of the mix of solutions to fight the costly epidemic of obesity. Click here for press release.

NRPA Policy Issue Papers/Schedule Congressional Visits
For those who have registered for NRPA's Legislative Forum - February 16-20 in Washington, DC. The NRPA Legislative Platform, a summary of legislation affecting parks and recreation at the national level, is available on the CPRS Web site. We hope you will find this information valuable as you schedule your visits with members of Congress on Thursday, February 17. Click here to download.

Announcing CPRS Aging Services and Activities Section Scholarship Winners!
The Aging Section’s Scholarship Committee is proud to announce the winners of the 2005 Scholarship Awards. The Committee received applications from 12 college students with extensive academic, and in many cases, professional backgrounds in the Aging and Human Services field. To view the winners click here.

Sports Illustrated and NRPA Team Up Again
NRPA has joined forces again with Sports Illustrated magazine to promote the Good Sports Program. The program is designed to advice, action plans, resources and recognition for administrators, coaches and parents who want kids in their towns to get the most out of their youth sports experiences. To learn more about what is available visit the CPRS Web site here.

Removed February 28, 2005

Great Materials Found Elsewhere
KIDS COUNT
A project of The Anne E. Casey Foundation, is a national and state-by-state effort to track the status of children in the U.S.” The KIDS COUNT 2004 Data Book: Moving Youth from Risk to Opportunity actually reports mostly positive news about children in California.
The Los Angeles Children Planning Council
Published the Youth Engagement Taskforce Report.
Partnership for Public Health
Published Midpoint Lessons Learned and Policy Recommendations from the Partnership for the Public's Health. The report describes strategies used by communities and public health departments to address local challenges.
Strategies
Publishes several newsletters a year. The Summer 2004 editions contains a great article by Lisabeth B. Schorr. There Is A Silver Bullet After All! talks about mapping outcomes.

CPRS Members Encouraged To Participate In Health Advocacy Day At State Capitol
The CPRS Legislative Committee on December 6th actively supported CPRS joining with the Strategic Alliance for Healthy Food and Activity Environments to participate in ENACT 2005 - an advocacy day at the State Capitol. CPRS members will be joined by members of the California PTA, the CA Food Policy Advocates, CA WIC, and others to promote healthy eating and activity to state legislators. It is vitally important CPRS members participate in this advocacy day. To print the flier for ENACT - April 28, 2005, please click on the following link http://www.cfpa.net/ENACT2005/index.htm. To register visit http://www.cfpa.net/ENACT2005/registration.htm.

New Membership Service Delivered Right To Your Desktop
CPRS has implemented a new on-line account manager for its members. Members will have the benefit of an on-line directory search - allowing them to access contact information for specific agencies, districts, professionals and companies to assist them in their daily business operations. A "Member Profile" area has been incorporated as a special feature into the new web based account manager as well. Within the "Profile" area, you will have direct control in updating your own information 24/7. To check on your CPRS directory entry visit the CPRS Web site here.

CPRS Joins Afterschool Challenge on February 16, 2005
The California Afterschool Challenge is a day at the State Capitol for celebration and education by the broad afterschool and school-age child care field. This year’s inaugural event will be held Wednesday, February 16, 2005, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in Sacramento. CPRS is joining efforts with the CA School Age Consortium, the Foundation Consortium, the California Collaboration for Youth, the State Alliance of YMCAs, and the Afterschool Alliance in Washington, D.C. on this important event. CPRS members, particularly those that offer afterschool programs, need to attend this important event to strengthen afterschool programs and educate California leaders about the important work afterschool programs provide. To learn more click here.

Looking Back and Looking Forward
Do you know what 11 trends should be part of your future plans? This months trendSCAN looks back at what we learned from 2004 and what to look forward to in 2005.

Three Options To Reserve Housing For The 2005 Conference
Delegates attending the 2005 California & Pacific Southwest Recreation & Park Training Conference can reserve rooms on-line. You can also download the housing form and fax or mail it in. Be sure to use this housing form instead of the one in the pre-conference brochure as the Sheraton Hotel rate has been lowered to $140.

CPRS Releases 2004 Legislator Scorecard "Know the Score"
CPRS Legislative Committee has conducted its assessment of how state legislators voted on bills of interest to park and recreation providers. "Know the Score," a publication which lists how each state legislator voted on bills supported by CPRS, will be distributed to state legislators when they resume their legislative session. To see if your state Assemblymember or Senator is on our "Honor Roll," click here.

CPRS Job Center Is THE Place To Look For And Place Job Announcements
CPRS is proud to announce the opening of the CPRS Job Center, the most extensive listing of park and recreation jobs in the U.S. The new Job Center will allow CPRS members to view job announcements on a 24/7 basis. You will no longer have to wait for the monthly publication. Agencies can also post new job announcements as soon as the job is available. To make the viewing of jobs easier, CPRS created a search function to allow you to refine your search by using key words or job classifications. To visit the new Job Center click here.

Removed December 1, 2004

Search Institute Resources for Youth Development
This report is the first in a series of reports from Search Institute, and they are part of the "Insights & Evidence" series. The second issue is "Unique Strengths, Shared Strengths: Developmental Assets Among Youth of Color" and the third is "Tapping the Power of Community: Building Assets to Strengthen Substance Abuse Prevention." The main page URL will take you to links to all three. Youth Collaboratives have found these reports to be very useful. The main page to Insights & Evidence: http://www.search-institute.org/research/Insights/
The one-page summary: http://www.search-institute.org/research/Insights/IE-10-03-brief.pdf
The full report: http://www.search-institute.org/research/Insights/IE-10-03-Achievement.pdf

Policymakers: A Checklist of Youth Development Principles
This tool was developed using recognized research that will help you in writing budget justifications, council and commission reports and establishing partnership guidelines. Click here to download.

Removed September 15, 2004

The California Performance Review Document Available For Public Inspection And Comments
The Report of the California Performance Review (CPR) - Government for the People for a Change - contains four volumes of comprehensive recommendations to reform and revitalize California's state government. 275 volunteers worked tirelessly for five months examining organizational structures, analyzing data, meeting with stakeholders and compiling the recommendations. To download the report (available in four volumes) visit http://www.report.cpr.ca.gov/. There will also be five public hearings on the recommendations in the report. The meetings will focus on CPR recommendations to improve the efficiency and management of the State Infrastructure Programs; and to improve services and efficiency in Resource Conservation, and Environmental Protection programs. For more on the meetings click here.

Changes To Public Resources Code 5164
Governor Schwarzenegger recently signed SB 1314 a CPRS supported bill, authored by Senator Deborah Ortiz (Sacramento-D) and sponsored by Attorney General Bill Lockyer. This bill provided for a number of technical clean-up provisions to the Penal Code as it relates to the dissemination of criminal background information. For more information on SB 1314 click here. For more information on Code 5164 and park and recreation agencies, please click here.

Budget Shift Helps Special Districts
CPRS successfully advocates to substantially reduce the budget hit on recreation and park districts statewide. Under a negotiated deal between the Governor, the California Special Districts Association, the League of California Cities and the California State Association of Counties local entities are required to shift $1.3 billion in property taxes for the next two years to balance the state budget in exchange for constitutional protection against future property tax raids. For more information click here.

"Suspense File" Bills Of Interest To Parks and Recreation
Senate Appropriations Committee met August 12, 2004, to act on the "Suspense File” bills. Suspense bills are bills that have been tagged as having more than $150,000 impact on the state's General Fund. To see the CPRS bills of import advanced August 12th click here.

If You Reuse It You Could Earn Money
FY 04/05 Reuse Assistance Grants Available
The California Integrated Waste Management Board (CIWMB) approved the Reuse Assistance Grants (RAGs) to provide the incentives for California local public agencies to promote and apply the reuse of non-hazardous material(s). Reuse is defined as using a material over again in its current form without any significant processing that alters its material structure. For more information click here.

State Parks To Make Major Effort In Central Valley
What is it about the Great Central Valley that makes it so special and how do we collectively protect these unique areas? Growth is going to happen and we don't have to lose what is special to your community. California State Parks has just released the Great Central Valley Strategy that will help guide future State Park System acquisition and development projects. What partnerships and collaborations can be built through this effort? Find out more by downloading the Department's Central Valley brochure.

Uncertain Future For TEA-21 Renewal
Since Congress recessed for the lengthy recess period, which runs until September 7th, most observers believe that TEA-21 renewal will not move in this Congress. For more information click here.

NEW! Nickelodeon Let's Just Play Grants Program
Application deadline: November 1, 2004. The Let's Just Play Grants Program provides support to create or expand opportunities for physical play in K-9 schools and after-school community-based organizations throughout the U.S. Approximately 25 to 50 grants will be awarded with awards ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. Eligible applicants include elementary and middle schools grades K-9 and after-school community-based organizations. Applicants must participate in Nickelodeon's Worldwide Day of Play. Funds may be used to purchase playground and athletic equipment, integrate playtime or recess into school/organization curriculum, establish nutritional or health education programs, establish athletic or intramural clubs/teams, or to host days of play for club/school/community throughout the year.

Removed August 9, 2004

NRPA to Host Executive Forum for Senior Parks and Recreation Managers
This forum is an intensive, interactive three-day program for parks and recreation professionals seeking to address significant leadership challenges. The forum is September 12-14, 2004 at The Seal Lodge, LaJolla, California. To download the registration form, click here.

Feed Your Program Participants For Free
The Summer Food Service Program provides children of low-income areas with free meals and snacks during the summer months when they are out of school. This service operates through The Food and Nutrition Service agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and can be administered through State education agencies, State health or social service departments, and by local approved sponsors including local government agencies. Playgrounds/parks, indoor recreation centers, and community centers sanctioned with local government and Non-Governmental Organizations provide up to 40% of the sites, serving 24% of meals. Free meals are served at sites deemed eligible for this program. Organizations that administer SFSP to their community receive reimbursement from the government through their state agencies. For more information about the program click here.

This Guidebook A Must Have For Project And Regional Conservation Planning
Understanding the Habitat Conservation Planning Process in California is designed to provide those who are involved in projects or planning efforts an understanding of the regulations and issues affecting protected species, focusing on the requirements for habitat conservation plans, and advice and recommendations regarding best approaches to project planning and regional conservation planning for protected species. To download the guide visit the Institute for Self Government Web site.

Transportion Network Has Resources To Help Create Healthy Communites
The Healthy Transportation Network provides information, connections, and direct assistance that agencies will ffind useful while working to improve the health of their communities. For more information about the resources available, click here.

Share Your Time
The 2004 NRPA Congress and Exposition is coming to Reno, Nevada. Volunteers are needed to help throughout the conference. If you would like to volunteer, please download the Volunteer Registration Form.

Physical Activity Makes a Difference - GoGirlGo! National Campaign
The non-profit Women's Sports Foundation, founded 30 years ago by tennis legend Billie Jean King, is trying to get girls ages 8 to 18 excited about exercise. The program, called GoGirlGo!, is rooted in government and medical statistics that link inactivity to increasing rates of obesity and other health problems, including breast cancer and osteoporosis, and escalating health costs. Too many girls are not physically or psychologically healthy, happy or confident about their ability to succeed in life. For more on the program click here.

Removed June 29, 2004

Park & Recreation Professionals Needed to Share Their Views
The Strategic Alliance seeks feedback from parks and recreation professionals on “The Environmental Nutrition and Activity Community Tool” (ENACT). ENACT can be the cornerstone for local assessments and policy change and can be used with a broad range of partners. Your feedback is needed to make the tool more effective and tailor it to meet local needs. Click here for more information on how you can participate.

Parks and Recreation – Leading to Promote Health and Wellness
Promoting health and wellness is a key mission of parks and recreation. It is vitally important park and recreation agencies position themselves as “players” in our state’s obesity and inactivity crisis. Your agency has at its disposal trails, bike paths, sports fields, gyms, playgrounds, swimming pools and beaches, community buildings, programs, and services that encourage children, youth, adults, and seniors to be active. Click here to find a variety of resources to help your agency promote health and wellness in your community.

Community Approach Needed To Fight Obesity
According to a California survey on Childhood Obesity, a majority believe that reducing childhood obesity requires a community approach, involving health providers and community groups, rather than leaving it solely to children and their families. The margin was 53% to 30%. Thirty-eight percent down rate their neighborhood as a place that promotes the overall health of its children or in offering opportunities for children to exercise and get physical activity. The survey was conducted by the Field Research Corporation and sponsored by The California Endowment. For a complete look at the data, please visit www.eatbettermovemore.org and check out the link under "What's New."

Local Park And Recreation Agencies Are Encouraged To Share Their "Bright Ideas"
BRIGHT IDEAS is designed to showcase successful or promising examples of healthy eating and physical activity strategies that have made it easier for youth to eat healthy food and/or be physically active in their community and at school. We want to illustrate that people with different knowledge and skills can be brought together in a supportive environment and implement policy changes to improve the health of California's youth and communities. To submit your "bright ideas," click here.

Removed May 11, 2004

Your Immediate Help Is Needed - Governor's Office Seeks Examples on Prevailing Wages and Volunteerism In California
The Department of Industrial Relations, citing state law and its mandate to prevent the exploitation of workers, has ruled that volunteers in most cases cannot be used on projects receiving public funds. The department late last year fined a Sacramento Valley nonprofit group $33,000, in part because it used student volunteers to help clear a stream bed. The administration of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is preparing its response, but top officials seem to think their hands are tied by the law. The Governor is seeking information on how this law impacts your use of volunteers in specific programs. For more information and contacts click here.

Aspiring Managers Have New Resources In New On-line Coaching Program
Recognizing that most baby-boomer Senior Managers in local government are ready to retire, Cal-ICMA (the California affiliate of the International City/County Management Association) has developed a Coaching Program for mid-career aspiring managers and has invited CPRS to be a partner! The Coaching Program offers up-and-coming talent in all the disciplines of local government (planning, public works, community services, engineering, finance, HR) the opportunity to participate in telephone sessions addressing key leadership and career development topics. For more information on the different sessions available click here.

Pool Facilities Needed For Diffusion Study
The POOL COOL program, a partnership between National Cancer Institute and the National Recreation and Park Association is recruiting 150 outdoor swimming pools from various metropolitan regions across the country to participate in a 3-year research study on skin cancer awareness, education, and prevention. For more information click here.