As we celebrate the Parks and Recreation profession during the month of July, I extend a note of appreciation to each of our PRPS members and our partners for your commitment to this profession of service.The dedication you demonstrate each day of work throughout the year is unbelievable!
However, during the summer months you each amaze me in what you accomplish and provide to assure our communities receive the benefits derived from engaging in recreation and leisure opportunities.
It all begins with planning and lots of attention to details in the months leading up to Summer. Of course, we take a break (maybe not everyone but we all should) to rejuvenate, learn new information and ideas by attending the Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society's Annual Conference and Expo. Then before we can blink an eye it is time to open the community swimming pools you have prepared and filled as Memorial Day welcomes the start of Summer.
Then we gather to celebrate America on the Fourth of July with parades, concerts and fireworks all of which you have had a direct hand in organizing as I am able to see from all the Facebook and Instagram posts of these great events. Love being able to see all the excitement in those pictures.
Plus, in those extra hours you add on to your work day or week throughout the summer months you assure our parks, trails and playgrounds are maintained and safe for all to use.
Last but certainly not overlooked from point of view is your leadership in organizing and operating the much appreciated summer camps where the next generation of parks and recreation professionals are being shaped by your role modeling.
THANK YOU for the sacrifices of long hours, working weekends and those 7 day work weeks so others can enjoy life.
Our 35th President of the United States (aka John F. Kennedy) knew the value of Parks and Recreation as he wrote "How we Americans spend leisure time might seem to have little bearing on the strength of our nation or the worth and prestige of our free society. Yet we certainly cannot continue to thrive as a strong and vigorous free people unless we understand and use creatively one of our greatest resources - our leisure. A life of complete leisure is the hardest work of all."
