CELEBRATING HISTORICAL IMPROVEMENTS
Dedication Ceremony at MacArthur Park

Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks celebrated the completion of the MacArthur Park Improvement Project on Saturday, September 12, 2009. Councilmember Ed P. Reyes and hundreds of local community members were on hand to cut the ceremonial ribbon and join in the festivities.

The MacArthur Park Improvement Project transformed a dusty and flat dirt field into a green meadow that features a 37,000-square-foot synthetic turf, play area, picnic tables and outdoor exercise equipment. New lighting, an irrigation system and landscaping were also part of the improvements.

The new synthetic multipurpose field will provide a much needed soccer space for local youth and adults. Over 10,000 youth participate in soccer leagues at the park yearly.

The $2.4 million project was built by Park West Landscape, Inc. Public Works' Bureau of Engineering designed and managed the project. Funding was provided by Propositions K (specified) and the Capital Improvement Expenditure Program.

Dedicated and opened in 1887, MacArthur Park is one of the oldest and most popular parks run by the Department. Located just west of the Downtown Los Angeles, MacArthur Park lies in one of the most densely-populated areas in the City. The 40-acre parkland provides recreational opportunities to hundreds of local residents and visitors daily.

MacArthur Park is located at 2230 West 6th Street 90057. For more information on this project of the Department, please visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

A NEW PLACE TO WORK ON YOUR FANCY FOOTWORK

Dedication of a Soccer Stadium at Boyle Heights Sports Center's

Los Angeles - Dozens of community members joined the Department of Recreation and Parks and Councilmember Huizar (14th District) in dedicating the a new synthetic soccer field at Boyle Heights Sports Center on Tuesday, September 8, 2009.

After a ceremonial ribbon cutting, attendees were invited onto the field where CHIVAS USA's power forward Gerson Mayen was showing of his foot skills and signing autographs. The new field will join a dozen other synthetic playing grounds run by the Department. With over 500 youth already signed up to play in soccer leagues at the Sports Center, the new field is sure to get plenty of use.

The $1.5 million project included the installation of a stadium sized soccer field and the refurbishment of the baseball/softball field. The project also included new permanent soccer goals, bleachers, remote controlled score boards at each field, lighting and landscaping.

The 103,910-square-foot soccer field boasts a synthetic surface which requires neither fertilizer nor water and is not only eco-friendly but also allows for more play with far less maintenance. The new field creates a significant increase in playing time, providing the community with more opportunities for recreational experiences.

The Architectural Division in the Bureau of Engineering (BOE) of the City's Department of Public Works designed the project, which the BOE's Recreational and Cultural Facilities Program managed. Park West Landscaping, Inc., of Pacoima served as the general contractor. Project funding came from Propositions K and 12.

Boyle Heights Sports Center is located at 933 South Mott Street, Los Angeles 90023. For more information on this location or the Department in general, please visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

SAYING FAREWELL TO SNL 2009

End of Summer Celebration at Jackie Tatum/Harvard RC

Los Angeles - Thousands of youth and families came together at Jackie Tatum/Harvard Recreation Center to say farewell to the Summer Night Lights (SNL) 2009 season on Saturday, September 5. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri, Commission President Barry A. Sanders and many other dignitaries were also on hand to celebrate the end of the summer program.

The End of Summer Celebration brought together youth from all 16 sites for a culminating event that emphasized friendship and healthy competition. Participating athletes took part in citywide basketball, soccer, skateboarding, handball and softball tournaments. Each winning team received trophies and shoes donated by VANS in collaboration with Soles4Souls, Inc.

Attendees were treated to FREE entertainment which included dance crew performances and live music. A moonbounce, climbing wall and classes/workshops in aviation, culinary arts, drama, mosaic art and hip-hop kept the fun going while The Hungry Hog kept bellies full by serving thousands of free meals.

This summer, SNL provided extended park hours at 15 City Recreation and Park facilities (plus one high school campus) in the City’s Gang Reduction and Youth Development (GRYD) zones. The gang reduction program offered expanded programming, after-school activities, athletic leagues, arts and family programs. This year, SNL ran from July 8 through Sept 5 and operated Wednesday though Saturday from 7 p.m. to midnight. All sites served free BBQ dinner.

Congratulations to all the Tournament Winners for a job well done!

*Imperial Courts Rec Center: Junior Basketball Division Champions

*Jackie Tatum/Harvard Rec Center: Adult Basketball Division Champions

*Jackie Tatum/Harvard Rec Center: Adult Co-Ed Softball Champions

*Ross Snyder Rec Center: Soccer Champions (5-7 year olds)

*Hubert Humphrey Park: Soccer Champions (8-10 year olds)

*Ross Snyder Rec Center: Soccer Champions (11-12 year olds)

*Jim Gilliam Rec Center: Soccer Champions (18 & up)

The Department would like to thank everyone for another successful SNL summer! We thank you for your support and participation and we hope to see you next SUMMER!!

A SPACE HERO LANDS AT THE GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY

The celebration of Buzz Aldrin Day in Los Angeles

Los Angeles - At 6:00 pm on Thursday, August 27, 2009, Councilmember Tom LaBonge stood at the front of the Griffith Observatory and declared it to be "Buzz Aldrin Day in Los Angeles". The famous Astronaut, who was one of the first humans to land and walk on the moon, joined Councilmember LaBonge, General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri, Dr. E.C. Krupp (Observatory Director) and over 100 hundred Angelenos.

Dr. Aldrin spoke about some of his experiences from his famous Apollo 11 voyage, which is part of his new autobiography, Magnificent Desolation. Buzz Aldrin landed on the moon with Neil Armstrong on July 20, 1969. The two astronauts spent 21 hours on the moon's surface and returned to Earth with 46 lbs of lunar rocks. Dr. Aldrin recounted his experiences in preparing for his trip to the moon, standing on the lunar surface and his bumpy return to Earth. After his speech, Dr. Aldrin greeted visitors and signed copies of his book.

Multiple telescopes were also set up along sidewalk of the Observatory's front lawn for free public viewing of the first quarter Moon. There are four major moon phases; new, first quarter, full and last/third quarter. The first quarter moon phase occurs a week after the new moon, when the Moon has completed about a quarter of its turn around the Earth. During this phase half of the illuminated part of the moon is visible.

For more information about this special event or the Department in general, please call (213) 202-2700 or visit our website at www.laparks.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

SNL'S: "END OF SUMMER CELEBRATION"
At Jackie Tatum/Harvard Recreation Center in South L.A.


Los Angeles - It's hard to believe that summer is already ending and it's even harder to believe that the Summer Night Lights program will be over too! But there will be one more chance to have some summer fun at the "End of Summer Celebration" at Jackie Tatum/Harvard Recreation Center on Saturday, September 5, 2009.

The culminating event will include basketball, soccer, softball, tennis, handball and skate tournaments, classes and/or workshops in aviation, culinary arts, drama, mosaic art, mechanics and hip-hop. There will also be FREE entertainment and food, a moon bounce, climbing wall and dance crew performances. The Jackie Tatum/Harvard Aquatic Facility will also be open, so don't forget your bathing suits!

The daylong event will begin at 10 am and is open to EVERYONE looking for a fun and safe way to spend the last Saturday of summer. Jackie Tatum/Harvard Recreation Center is located at 1535 West 62nd Street, Los Angeles 90047. For more information call (213) 202-2700.




MEDIA CONTACT:
Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2700

HAPPY 228TH BIRTHDAY, LOS ANGELES!!
A festive birthday celebration at El Pueblo Plaza on September 5

Los Angeles - Can you believe Los Angeles is turning 228 years old? She looks pretty good for her age, doesn't she? She can't wait to celebrate her birthday and she wants everyone to join her in the festivities! The celebration starts at 6 am on Saturday, September 5, 2009 with Los Pobladores' "Walk to Los Angeles" and continues at El Pueblo Plaza.

The "Walk to Los Angeles" will follow in the footsteps of the original settlers whose walk 228 years ago led to the establishment of the City of Los Angeles. During the first week in September 1781, 44 people from 11 different families and four soldiers left Mission San Gabriel and proceeded nine miles to a river. There, on September 4, 1781, they established El Pueblo de la Reina de Los Angeles (The town of the Queen of Angels). Over 200 years later, Los Angeles is the largest city in the state of California and the second largest in the United States.

The walk is approximately nine miles and should take about three hours. It begins at San Gabriel Mission and proceeds west along Mission Road to Alhambra Avenue, then to Valley Blvd to Cesar Chavez then over the bridge to Alameda. For those who cannot make the entire trip, there is an option to meet at Lincoln Park to walk the last three miles. Concluding the nine-mile trek from San Gabriel, walkers will be greeted with a warm L.A. welcome at Los Angeles' 228th birthday celebration at El Pueblo Plaza (Olvera Street).

The celebration at El Pueblo Plaza will include free entertainment which will feature traditional dancing, dramatic presentations, a pinata and birthday cake. There are also various restaurants, historic tours and shops to visit on Olvera Street.

For more information or to register for the "Walk to Los Angeles" please call (213) 485-8376. Registered walkers will receive a wrist band, t-shirt and a fact sheet. Remember the event is FREE and is open to everyone!


MEDIA CONTACT:
Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

THE HEAT REMAINS & SO WILL 7 SEASONAL POOLS
Seven seasonal pools will remain open until September 13

Los Angeles - With Los Angeles temperatures expecting to remain above 80 degrees for the next two weeks, the Department of Recreation and Parks has some cool news. Thanks to financial support from Kaiser Permanente, seven of our seasonal pools will remain open for an extra six days beyond their traditional Labor Day closing.

Jackie Tatum/Harvard Aquatic Facility, Griffith Park Pool, Northridge, Ritchie Valens, Ross Snyder, Stoner and Sun Valley pools will all be available for use from September 8 through September 13. Hours will be from 3:30 pm to 7:00 pm September 8-11; and noon to 5 pm September 12-13. Four of the seven locations have fun waterslides for kids to enjoy (Jackie Tatum/Harvard, Northridge, Stoner and Sun Valley pools).

Children age 17 or younger, seniors 65 or older and the disabled can continue to swim for FREE. Adults with a Library Card can swim for $2; otherwise, the charge for patrons ages 18-64 is $2.50. Children age 6 or younger must be accompanied by an adult at all times. In addition, kids ages 3-6 must be potty-trained and those younger than 3 must wear a swim diaper.

To find a pool near you, please contact the Department's Aquatics Division at (323) 906-7953. Individual pool brochures can be viewed and downloaded at www.laparks/dos/aquatic/aquatic.htm.




MEDIA CONTACT:
Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

EVERGREEN CHILD CARE CENTER IS OFFICIALLY OPEN

Dedication of new center and the Willie Corona Multi-Purpose Room

Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks proudly dedicated the Evergreen Child Care Center on Monday, August 10, 2009. Department staff joined Councilmember Jose Huizar, Boyle Heights residents and family and friends of respected community member William Corona to celebrate the grand opening of the newly constructed $3.1 million center.

Features to the 4,150 square-foot Child Care Center include two classrooms, a technology room, snack room, ADA-compliant restrooms, staff offices and laundry room. The project also included the installation of a new children's play area, parking lot, site landscaping and fencing. The style and base colors of the building were intended to match those of the nearby recreation center and accentuated with vivid tones to invoke a colorful sense of play. The state-of-the-art facility boasts a Mayan-architectural design and plaster facade and incorporates the needs of the community, childcare requirements, the need for safety and security and addresses the priorities of center staff.

Evergreen Child Care Center is the Department's 26th state-licensed facility and provides safe and qualified programming for before and after school children. The year-round center offers a variety of programming that includes arts & crafts, drama, science projects and sports activities.

Along with the dedication of the facility, the Department also dedicated the center's multi-purpose room in honor of Mr. William "Willie" Corona. Mr. Corona was not only an important part of the Evergreen community, he was also a member of the Recreation and Parks family. Willie made Evergreen Park a better place through countless hours of selfless dedication. With a passion for sports, he was always a positive influence on children and coaches alike, teaching the meaning of sportsmanship and the importance of being a team player. Whenever he learned a child was unable to afford a uniform, athletic shoes or gloves, Corona was said to always open his wallet.

When he began the park's tennis program, he kept his community's financial hardships in mind and took it upon himself to buy all the necessary racquets, tennis balls and shoes. He even taught the classes free of charge. Willie also dedicated his time volunteering for the park's Child Care Center (then located inside the gym).

Corona's primary concern was that the children of Evergreen Park have a fun experience. From chalking fields to treating children to ice cream, sodas, hot dogs or even some kind words after practice or a game, Willie did whatever it took to make them happy. He was eventually hired by the Department as a part-time recreation assistant at Evergreen, always working his shifts, always staying late and always using his earnings on the children of Evergreen Park.

Indeed, it was Willie's love for Evergreen that kept him there, up until those last two months before he passed away in October of 1997. For many, he will always remain in their hearts a true hero of Evergreen Park, a man, who in the words of his family and friends, "always gave of himself and never asked for anything in return."

The Department and community have honored Willie Corona with a memorial plaque inside the multi-purpose room at Evergreen Child Care Center, which now stands in the same location as Willie's beloved tennis courts. Throughout his life, Willie never left Evergreen and now will continue to do so, as his name and legacy will remain in the park, set in stone.

Evergreen Child Care Center is located at 211 S. Evergreen Avenue, Los Angeles 90033. For more information on this location or the Department in general, please call (213) 202-2700 or visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

THE BEGINNING TO A BEAUTIFUL UPGRADE

Groundbreaking Ceremony at Fred Roberts Recreation Center

Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks joined Councilwoman Jan Perry (9th District) and local residents to celebrate the start of construction on a new and much-needed recreation center at Fred Roberts in South Los Angeles on Thursday, July 9, 2009.

The existing recreation center no longer fills the needs of the local growing community. More space and diversity is needed and the new center will provide just that to its residents. The building is designed to provide movement and excitement with angular elevations and an innovative floor plan.

Features to the recreation center will include a regulation sized gymnasium, office space for staff and ADA complaint restrooms. The main building, which will function as the recreation center will be approximately 9,200-square feet and will be used mainly for athletics such as basketball, volleyball and other court activities. There will be another smaller 2,400-square-foot building, which will be used for child care and community services, attached to the main building.

The project is expected to be complete in Fall of 2010. Fred Roberts Recreation Center is located at 4700 South Honduras Street, Los Angeles 90011. For more information on this project or the Department, please visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

A QUICK & EFFICIENT UPGRADE

Groundbreaking for Shatto Improvement Project

Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks broke ground for the Shatto Park Improvement Project on Monday, July 13, 2009. Councilmember Tom LaBonge, Commission President Barry Sanders, community leaders and residents gathered at the outdoor volleyball court to celebrate the start of much-needed improvements at Shatto Recreation Center.

The Department's Assistant General Manager Vicki Israel said it herself, "Shatto Recreation gets a lot of use. It's a popular community institution." Located in the Mid-Wilshire district of the City of Los Angeles, Shatto's surrounding community has the highest population density of all neighborhoods in Los Angeles. The 5.4 acre park provides a variety of services and programs, which are heavily utilized by the surrounding community. There are currently 55 youth participating in Shatto's summer camp and the basketball league has over 240 kids registered.

The Department of Recreation and Parks determined that in order for Shatto Recreation Center to continue being a valued community facility, improvements were needed to provide additional recreational opportunities. When completed the improvement project will provide park patrons with a more extensive use of the park space.

The project will include the installation of new universally accessible play equipment with security lighting, outdoor fitness equipment for adults and cushioned athletic surfacing for the outdoor basketball and volleyball courts. Drought tolerant plants will also be planted throughout the park.

The improvement project will take 6 months to complete. The $685,000 cost will be funded by Quimby. The Department's Planning and Construction Division will be managing and constructing the project.

Shatto Recreation Center is located at 3191 West 4th Street, Los Angeles 90020. For more information on this project or the Department of Recreation and Parks, please visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

THE BEGINNING OF A BEAUTIFUL TRANSFORMATION

Groundbreaking for Fred Roberts Recreation Center

Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks held a Groundbreaking Ceremony for Fred Roberts Recreation Center on Thursday, July 9, 2009. Councilwoman Jan Perry, City Engineer Gary Lee Moore, Department staff and community members were all on hand to celebrate the start of construction on a new and much-needed recreation center at the South Los Angeles park.

The existing recreation center at Fred Roberts no longer fills the needs of the local and growing community. More space and diversity is needed and the new center will provide just that. Features to the new recreation center will include, a regulation sized gymnasium, office space for staff, ADA compliant restrooms and storage space. The gymnasium will have a multi-use sports floor, which can be used for basketball, volleyball and other indoor sports.

The Bureau of Engineering will be managing the project and AWI Builders, Inc. will be constructing the recreation center. The $3.8 million project will be funded by Proposition K. The recreation center is expected to be completed in September 2010.

Fred Roberts Recreation Center is located at 4700 South Honduras Street, Los Angeles 90011. Fred Roberts provides youth sports leagues (e.g. basketball, t-ball, soccer, etc.), pre-school, an after-school program and a variety of classes (e.g. aerobics, dance, arts and crafts, etc.). For more information on this location or the Department, please visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

THE RETURN OF SUMMER NIGHT LIGHTS

Kick-off of Summer Gang Reduction Effort at City Parks

Los Angeles - Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa joined Department General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri to kick-off the second year of Summer Night Lights (SNL) and announce the program's expansion to 16 sites. The SNL press conference was held at Imperial Courts Recreation Center (one of the 16 SNL sites and a Department facility) on Monday, June 29, 2009.

The Mayor and General Manager were joined by Councilmember Herb Wesson, Chief William Bratton, USC Football Coach Pete Carroll and representatives from participating non-profit and community based organizations. 160 youth squad members were also on hand to celebrate the launch of SNL. Summer Night Lights was developed in partnership with the Department of Recreation and Parks, Coach Carroll's non-profit organization, A Better L.A., the LAPD, the Department of Cultural Affairs and LAUSD.

Taking action to combat gang violence during the summer months, traditionally the most violent time of the year, Summer Night Lights targets parks in the City’s Gang Reduction and Youth Development (GRYD) zones and expands programming, after-school activities, athletic leagues, art initiatives and family programs. The anti-gang initiative keeps City parks open after dark with organized activities for at-risk youth, therefore providing a safe place to spend the summer.

The SNL Program has three major components:

1) Extended hours and programming: From July 8 – September 8th, 16 sites will extend their hours until midnight, four nights a week (Wednesday-Saturday) and expand programming to include youth-centered recreational, educational and artistic activities to engage youth in positive activities during peak times of violence.

2) Youth Squad: Ten community coordinators have been hired to create and staff the extended hours and programs at each park. Community coordinators are at-risk youth, ages 17-20, who received extensive training and will receive stipends for 10 weeks of work.

3) Cease-Fire: Intervention workers will help maintain cease-fires at the sites and in the surrounding community. They also assist in hiring and overseeing community coordinators.

With last summer's success, it only made sense to expand the program from 8 to 16 sites this year. Last year, each site averaged over 6000 kids per week and communties around SNL parks experienced a 17% drop in violent crime, an 86% reduction in homicides and a 23% decrease in aggravated assualt.

Besides expanding to eight additional sites, two other features have also been added to this year's programming. All sites will feature barbeques from 7:00-9:00 p.m. and evening swimming will be available at three Recreation and Parks sites (Jackie Tatum/Harvard Aquatic Center, Glassel pool and Sepulveda pool).

The 16 Summer Night Lights locations are: Cypress Park Recreation Center, Denker Recreation Center, Edward E. Roybal Learning Center, Glassell Park, Jackie Tatum/Harvard Recreation Center, Hubert Humphrey Memorial Park, Imperial Courts Recreation Center, Jim Gilliam Park, Jordan Downs Recreation Center, Lemon Grove Recreation Center, Mount Carmel Recreation Center, Nickerson Gardens Recreation Center, Ramon Garcia Recreation Center, Ross Snyder Recreation Center, Ramona Gardens Recreation Center and Sepulveda Recreation Center.

For more information on the SNL program, please visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

A DOUBLE, DOUBLE WHAMMY

A special start to Summer Swimming

Los Angeles - It started with a double ceremony and now it has ended with a double ceremony. In November 2007, the Department of Recreation and Parks celebrated the rededication of Harvard Recreation Center as the Jackie Tatum/Harvard Recreation Center and broke ground for the facility's pool. Almost two years later on June 21, 2009, we returned to the same place to celebrate the grand opening of the Jackie Tatum/Harvard Aquatic Center and the start of the 2009 swimming season.

The $6.2 million aquatic center includes a 3,400-square-foot traditional swimming pool, a 2,600-square-foot activity pool with zero depth entry, play equipment and a water slide. There is also a 3,700-square-foot one-story masonry building with a lifeguard station, first aid room, Americans with Disabilities Act compliant restrooms and six individual changing rooms.

Western Group, Inc. built the aquatic complex, which was designed by Jones & Madhavan Architecture Engineering. The City's Bureau of Engineering managed the project. Funding came from Proposition K, Proposition 40 and Kaiser Permanente.

The new aquatic center and recreation center was renamed after Jackie Tatum a former Recreation and Parks General Manager. Ms. Tatum was the first woman and first African-American General Manager of the Department of Recreation and Parks. She was a City of Los Angeles employee with 43 years of service.

In November 2007, a ceremony was held to rededicate Harvard Park as the Jackie Tatum/Harvard Recreation Center. More than 200 people joined Jackie to reminisce and celebrate her Recreation and Parks career. Almost a year later on November 7, 2008, Ms. Tatum passed away. She is survived by her children, Chandler-Renee and Ricky and sister Marilyn.

With the opening of the Jackie Tatum/Harvard Aquatic Center the Department also celebrated the start of the 2009 Summer Swimming Season. The new family aquatic center joined 33 other City seasonal pools that all opened on Saturday, June 20. The Department's 16 year-round pools will also began their summer schedule.

The Department is partnering for the fourth year with Kaiser Permanente for Operation Splash through which qualifying children can receive free lessons. The 2009 commitment of $250,000 will make it possible for thousands of kids in low-income areas to learn how to swim and provided the water slide at Jackie Tatum/Harvard Aquatic Center.

Another partner is the LA84 Foundation, which was established to manage Southern California's share of the surplus from the highly successful 1984 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles; the organization has granted hundreds of thousands of dollars to the Department of Recreation and Parks for a variety of uses, including aquatic facilities and programs.

For the 11th consecutive year, children age 17 or younger, seniors age 65 or older and the disabled can swim for free at all City pools. Children ages 3-6 must be potty-trained and accompanied by an adult at all times; children under 3 must wear a swim diaper. The charge for adults ages 18-64 will be $2.50; those who have a City Library Card will pay $2.

Seasonal pools will be open daily through Monday, September 7. Residents can contact their nearest pool, or the Department's Aquatic Section at (323) 906-7953. Individual pool brochures can be viewed and downloaded at www.laparks.org/aquatic/aquatic.htm.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

A SKATEBOARDING OASIS IN THE S.F. VALLEY

Dedication of the Paul Rodriguez Skate Park

Pacoima - Young skaters were already lining up at Ritchie Valens Recreation Center at 7 a.m. on Sunday, June 21. The festivities for the grand opening of the Paul Rodriguez Skate Park did not start until 12 p.m. but hundreds of skateboarding fans were ready four hours in advance.

When Professional Skateboarder Paul "P-Rod" Rodriguez, Jr. and the NIKE SkateBoarding (SB) Team rolled in, there was over 600 people waiting to greet them. P-Rod brought a special guest with him, his father, comedian and actor Paul Rodriguez who emceed the event which featured music, refreshments and demonstrations by P-Rod and the NIKE SB Team.

Constructed in an area of the San Fernando Valley near where P-Rod grew up, the skate park has an innovative and unique design. The park features replicas of famous Southern California skate spots like the Griffith Park run-off ditch and Sylmar rails. The park has no fences or traditional skate park elements, just natural, skateable architecture.

The new skate park is part of a partnership between the Department of Recreation and Parks, Professional Skateboarder Paul "P-Rod" Rodriguez, Jr., LA84 Foundation and NIKE. The park was designed by P-Rod, Professional Skateboarder Lance Mountain and Joe Ciaglia. California Skateparks built the project which was funded by NIKE and LA84's "Let Me Play" program.

The new skateboarding spot is the ninth skate facility run by the Department of Recreation and Parks. The Paul Rodriguez Skate Park is located within Ritchie Valens Recreation Center at 10731 Laurel Canyon Boulevard, Pacoima 91331. For more information on this location or the Department, please visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACT: Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

LET THE RENOVATIONS BEGIN!!!

Groundbreaking Ceremony for Downey Pool

Los Angeles - "What if we don"t know how to swim?" "Then you"ll take lessons and learn." Children from Downey Child Care Center and Albion Street Elementary School curiously questioned Assistant General Manager Vicki Israel about their future swimming adventures. "Will we be able to do cannonballs at the new pool?" "Can my little brother go swimming too?" "What if I only know how to float?" "What's a Splash Pad?"

It was Thursday, June 11, 2009 and the Department of Recreation and Parks was celebrating the start of construction on the Downey Pool Renovation Project. Even though their adventures will not start until the summer of 2010, the young swimmers were already anticipating the fun they will have at the new $3 million aquatics facility.

And what fun they will have with all the exciting and cool features at Downey Pool! The renovation project involves the demolition of the existing deteriorated swimming pool and pump house (which has been closed for the past three years); the construction of a new swimming pool that is 38 feet by 75 feet, a new 1,700-square-foot activity pool/splash pad, and new pump house; and the installation of decorative pool decking, perimeter fencing, landscaping, and irrigation. Renovations are planned to be completed by March 2010.

The Architectural Division in the Bureau of Engineering designed the facility. The Bureau's Municipal Facilities Program will manage the project and Horizon Construction, Inc. or Anaheim will build the aquatic center. Funding for the project at Downey Pool was provided by MICLA, Prop K and Quimby Funds.

When open, Downey Pool will join 33 other Department seasonal pools. Seasonal locations are only open during the summer months (usually from mid-June to early September). The pool will be operated by the Recreation and Parks' Aquatic Division. The Aquatic Division runs over 55 aquatic facilities and provides recreational swimming, lap swim, team sports, lifeguard training, junior lifeguard training, adaptive swimming for the disabled and swimming lessons to 1.3 million Los Angeles residents each year.

Downey Pool is located at 1775 North Spring Street, Los Angeles 90031. The closest open swim facility is Lincoln Pool located at 3501 Valley Blvd., Los Angeles 90032, (213) 847-3382. For more information on this project or the Department, visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

A WATER CONSERVATIVE PARK IN NORTH HOLLYWOOD

Groundbreaking Ceremony for Bellaire Avenue Park

North Hollywood - The Department of Recreation and Parks' General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri, Councilmember Wendy Greuel and local residents broke ground to celebrate the construction of Bellaire Avenue Park on Monday, June 8, 2009.

The Groundbreaking Ceremony marked the start of the transformation of a 0.14 acre vacant lot into a charming neighborhood park. When complete the new park will provide a much-needed haven for local residents to relax, gather and play. Features to Bellaire Avenue Park will include a 2-5 year old play area, an outdoor classroom with wood stump seating and a demonstration garden.

The Department's Planning Division has designed Bellaire Avenue Park to contain water conservation objectives. Water conservation has become an important issue around the world and the implementation of water saving measures is greatly needed everywhere. The Department of Recreation and Parks is proud to say that Bellaire Avenue Park will be part of that effort by implementing the following special features to the new park.

Bellaire Park will be landscaped with California native and drought tolerant plants. Native/drought tolerant plants are adapted to the wet winters and dry summers, allowing less use of water, fertilizer and pesticides. The beautiful existing Walnut Tree will be preserved and has been worked into the park's design. A Smart Irrigation System will be installed, which will help save 325,000 gallons of water annually. All of these special efforts will help conserve water and the natural habitat while providing residents with local parkland.

The new park will be constructed by the Department's Planning and Construction Division and will cost approximately $350,000. Bellaire Avenue Park site is located at 7960 Bellaire Avenue in North Hollywood, 91605. For more information on this location or the Department, please visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

A FREE & SIMPLE WAY TO EXERCISE

Dedication of a new Outdoor Fitness Zone at Pan Pacific

Los Angeles - The Department of Recreation and Parks, in partnership with the Trust for Public Land (TPL), proudly dedicated an Outdoor Fitness Zone at Pan Pacific Recreation Center on Thursday, June 4, 2009.

TPL is a non-profit organization that conserves land for people to enjoy as parks and other natural places. The Pan Pacific Outdoor Fitness Zone is part of the TPL’s Fitness Zone Program. The Fitness Zone Program was created to provide new opportunities for park patrons to be active and healthy.

During the last 20 years there has been a dramatic increase in obesity in the United States. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, over 40 million Americans are considered overweight or obese. More than 60% of adults and 50% of young people do not get the recommended amount of regular physical activity. Studies have shown that providing simple and accessible exercise equipment dramatically increases physical activity and therefore improves a person’s health.

The new Fitness Zone is an easy-to-use outdoor gym designed to improve general health through weight loss, cardiovascular endurance, increased flexibility and strength building. The exercise equipment is designed to be durable, vandal resistant and used in various configurations. The Fitness Zone is free and can be used by teenagers and adults of all fitness levels.

The outdoor exercise area has eight pieces of equipment: a cross-country ski machine, an upper body workout station, horizontal bars, leg press machine, lat pull-down machine, seated arm machine, incline crunch bench and lying leg curl machine. All of the machines have American’s with Disability Act compliant surfacing and bilingual instructions decals.

Pan Pacific is the sixth completed Fitness Zone. The Outdoor Fitness Zone was donated in memory of Geysol Johana Lopez Vasquez (April 20, 1972 – August 18, 2007) by her family and friends. Geysol worked to better the health and lives of those around her through selfless service and dedication.

Pan Pacific Recreation Center is located at 7600 Beverly Blvd 90036. For more information on this project of the Department, please visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

A BEAUTIFUL AND REWARDING TRANSFORMATION

A new multipurpose facility in South L.A.

Los Angeles - For over 60 years, the property on Figueroa and 70th Street was vacant and barren. Until community members came together and decided to initiate the development of a park facility. After many years of hard work and dedication, the Department of Recreation and Parks proudly dedicated and opened the South Los Angeles Sports Activity Center on May 21, 2009.

The project was truly a team effort with three very important players; the Bureau of Engineering, Recreation and Parks and the community. General Manager Jon Kirk Mukri, Councilmember Bernard C. Parks, City Engineer Gary Lee Moore and community members were all in attendance to celebrate their rewarding achievement.

The 7,000-square-foot facility features: one 2,000-square-foot multipurpose room, two classrooms, an administrative office, Americans with Disabilities Act compliant restrooms and a lobby area. The project also included a new parking lot, landscaping and irrigation system.

The $3 million project was designed by the Architectural Division of the Bureau of Engineering in the City's Department of Public Works. The Bureau's Recreational and Cultural Facilities Program managed the project, which was built by Tobo Construction Inc. of Los Angeles. Funding came from the Community Development Grant and Propositions K, A, 12 and 40.

The South Los Angeles Sports Activity Center will not only provide local residents with various recreational opportunities, but the facility will also be used by the LAPD 77th Division's Jeopardy Program. The Jeopardy Program is a gang prevention/intervention program for youth ages 8 to 17 and their parents. The program combines the strength of the community, neighborhood schools and Police Department to create positive lifelong attitude changes in at-risk youth.

The Sports Activity Center is located at 7020 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles 90003. For more information on the new facility or the Department, please visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/ or call (213) 202-2700.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694

Amy A. Garcia: (213) 202-2689

A TANK SAVER FOR GRIFFITH PARK

Dedication of a 75,000-gallon water tank

Los Angeles - In honor of the 2nd Anniversary of the Griffith Park fire the Department of Recreation and Parks along with Councilmember Tom LaBonge, DWP Assistant General Manager Jim McDaniel and Fire Chief Douglas Barry dedicated a new water tank at Travel Town Transportation Museum on Thursday, May 7, 2009.

The 750,000-gallon tank will be used to fight future fires in the 4,217-acre park. Griffith Park is the largest municipal park with urban wilderness in the United States. Brush fire present a definite safety hazard, especially from Spring to Fall, when the natural chaparal and underbrush is very dry.

"The Travel Town water tank is a great assest to Griffith Park," said Fire Chief Douglas Barry. Over the past ten years, the DWP has been working on improving the water system at Griffith Park by installing over 200 fire hydrants and two water tanks. The Travel Town tank is the third tank in the new system. The Water Tank will also be used to irrigate the western areas of the park.

On May 8-9, 2007 a major wildfire burned more than 800 acres of parkland in Griffith Park. The Bird Sanctuary, Dante’s View and Captain’s Roost were all destroyed. The blaze also threatened the Los Angeles Zoo, the Griffith Observatory and one of the largest Universally Accessible Playgrounds in Los Angeles, Shane’s Inspiration. Hundreds of people were evacuated and one home was damaged. Fortunately no lives were lost. The May 2007 fire was the third major blaze in Griffith Park history

For more information on this event of the Department, please call (213) 202-2700 or visit our website at http://www.laparks.org/.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jane Kolb: (213) 202-2694