we create opportunities for healthy, happy living! pick up your team t

The GameChanger 1 November 2014

We create opportunities for healthy, happy living!

E-mail your news to [email protected]

by the 2nd Friday of the month and note The

Gamechanger in the subject line of your email. No

computer? Give Debbie Thatcher a call at 966-6649.

November 2014

Holiday BBQ - p1

Holiday BBQ Table Centerpiece & Lawn Decoration Contest - p2

Holiday BBQ Dessert Bake-off Contest - p2

Meet our Holiday BBQ Coordinator: Frank Knapp - p2

Golden Palm Award: Eric Call - p3

Golden Palm Award: Jennifer Cirillo - p3

SPBC Youth Football League honored at surprise event held at Lake

Lytal Park - p4

Employee Profile: Kelvin Greer - p4

Local retiree Seymour Weiner finds beauty in wetlands boardwalk - p5

United Way Department Events - p5

Employee Profile: Rodolfo ‘Rudy’ Espinoza - p6

Special Olympics swimmer Angela Height (Aqua Crest Pool) received

gold and silver in the State Championships - p7

Red Cross sets a goal to reduce the number of drownings to mark 100

years of Aquatics - p7

Congratulations to GIS/CADD Technician Casey Pranckun who officially

became a State of Florida Registered Landscape Architect - p8

Safety Corner - p8

Employee Profile: Arman Irons - p8

The John Prince Golf Learning Center has been selected as a 2014

Golf Range Association of America (GRAA) Top 50 Range in the Stand

Alone category - p10

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to

increase awareness of the disease - p10

Your Health & Wellness - p10

Young opossums were released back into the wild, a new feature at

the annual Halloween Hoot ‘n’ Howl event - p11

Riverbend park is criss-crossed with hard-packed shell trails designed

to be shared by hikers and bicyclists - p11

“The Morikami Museum is the only museum in the U.S. dedicated

exclusively to the living culture of Japan.” - p11

On November 1 Lakewood Park was turned over to the Village of Palm

Springs to operate and maintain - p11

Employee Profile: Earl Campbell - p11

Over 1500 people attended this year’s Migration Celebration at Green

Cay Nature Center and Wetlands - p12

Recreation Services’ annual ‘State of The Division’ meeting -p12

Congratulations to Noel Hermane— Parks Division’s Employee of the

Month for October - p13

Congratulations to Ed Greenan— Parks Division’s Employee of the

Month for November - p13

Help us preserve an important piece of our history! - p14

An estimated 800 area school children, local residents, and tourists

had an opportunity to experience living history at Loxahatchee River

Battlefield Park in mid-November - p14

Employees on the Move - p16

Send us your pictures! - p17

Friday, December 12, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Center Drive Pavilion, John Prince Park

Contests

Table Centerpiece and Lawn Decoration*

Dessert Bake-off*

Donut eating contest

*preregistration required; see page two for details

Activities and Fun!

Pick up your

team t-shirt

at the BBQ!

Service awards

Employee recognition

awards

Free lunch

Door prizes

Silent auction

Contest winners

announced

Volleyball

Basketball

Corn hole

Horseshoes

Golfzilla

mailto:[email protected]


Holiday BBQ Dessert Bake-off Contest

Bake your holiday favorite or new recipe!

Rules:

Must be homemade.

Preregistration is required.*

Deliver entries to JPP Administrative

Building, room 130 no later than 8:30 a.m.

on December 12. (Judging will begin

promptly at 9 a.m. Leftover desserts will be

brought to the holiday party for tasting by 11 a.m.)

*Contestants must preregister by Friday, December 5.

Email [email protected] or fax to 242-6930 the following:

name of dessert, name of participant, division/section,

phone number, and a list of ingredients. For information,

contact Rebecca Pine at 966-6650.

Holiday BBQ Table Centerpiece & Lawn

Decoration Contest

Rules:

Table centerpiece size requirements:14 in. wide, 20 in.

long,

24 in. tall (Must be able to stand alone.)

Lawn decoration size requirements: 4 ft. wide, 4 ft. long,

8 ft. tall (Must be able to stand alone.)

Must be home made.

No open flame, sharp objects, or live animals.

Entries must be delivered to Center Drive Pavilion in

John Prince Park between 8:30-11 a.m. on December 12.

(Judging will begin promptly at 1 p.m.)

Submit your entry form by email to [email protected]

or fax to 242-7024 and include the contestant's name,

division/section, phone number, and name/theme of

decoration (if applicable).

Please specify on the entry form if you want to enter

your decoration into the silent auction (11 a.m.- 1 p.m.)

to benefit United Way.

For information, contact Sue Aprea, 561-966-6636.

Meet our Holiday BBQ Coordinator: Frank Knapp

Maintenance Supervisor (and this year’s Holiday BBQ Coordinator), Parks Division

Team member for 3 years (Building Division/Department of Planning, Zoning & Building since 2001)

Frank followed in his father’s footsteps to become a Building Contractor in 1987. Self-employed for many years, he eventually took a position as Plans Examiner with the City of West Palm Beach. In 2001, he became the supervisor of the Delray Office for the county’s Building Division. The downturn in the economy would change that, however, when fewer permits started resulting in layoffs. He felt very fortunate when he applied for and was hired as Maintenance Supervisor in our Parks Division. He now supervises our sign shop, irrigation techs, painters, and general maintenance mechanics.

He’s well qualified. It’s not commonly known that Frank holds five State licenses in addition to his Building Contractor’s license.

“Every day’s a day in the park,” he says with a broad smile. His favorite part of the job is being outside and making sure the parks are up to our standards and safe for people to use.

He was quick to volunteer to head up our Holiday BBQ this year, and we can all be assured that our festive annual event is in good hands! Frank’s had plenty of experience coordinating projects, events, and people, and he loves every minute of it.

He was a member of Palm Beach County’s Building Officials Association, and, over time, served as Director, Treasurer, Secretary, Vice President, and President of the organization. He was Chairman of their Golf Committee and helped organize their annual scholarship golf tournament, as well as annual picnics and annual fishing tournaments.

He even started his own golf tournament—now called the G.F. Knapp Memorial Classic Invitational Golf Tournament (“everyone thought it needed a name”)—that’s been held for 26 years and has included as many as 70 people.

He lives life to the fullest and enjoys a good time. He rides a Harley Davidson Heritage Softail (“a weekend thing”) and takes his Aquasport out as often as he can to fish, dive or ski. His three sisters have a ‘sisters weekend’ in Las Vegas each year, and they always count on their brother Frank joining them.

Yes, our Holiday BBQ’s in good hands.

Frank is quick to join the fun by

contributing to United Way at a recent

fund-raising event. Heather Medina

happily accepted his donation.

Prizes for both contests:

1st place: 8 hours of incentive leave

2nd place: 6 hours of incentive leave

3rd place: 4 hours of incentive leave




Parks and Recreation Department winners of County Administrator Bob Weisman’s

2014 Golden Palm Awards were announced in the October issue of The GameChanger.

This is the first in a series of profiles that will include the accomplishment of each.

Watch for more in future issues of our newsletter.

Eric Call

Parks and Recreation Department Director

His leadership is demonstrated in multiple

ways, including dedication of department

employees, quality of services provided to the

public, range of services provided, willingness to

undertake new programs and improve existing

services, representation of the department to the

public, cooperation within county government with

other agencies, and awards of recognition of quality

of service.

Eric Call takes special pride in receiving this Golden

Palm Award, but he’s quick to point out that he’s

surrounded by “character individuals with strong skills

who are engaged in the program, and are as committed as I

am to what we want to do.”

Eric’s steady rise to Department Director over the past

31 years is a departure from his earlier career plans. As a

pitcher and an

outfielder at the

University of

Florida, he had

aspirations of becoming a major league baseball player.

He was hand-selected to play on the USA team in the Pan-

American Games in 1978 in Caracas, Venezuela and was

confident that he’d later be able to make it professionally.

An injury forced a change in plans.

Since joining our team in December 1983 as a

temporary on call employee at Westgate Recreation

Center, Eric has steadily risen within our ranks. He

assumed permanent status early the following year as a

Recreation Specialist I and later served as Manager of the

recreation center for almost two years.

Jennifer Cirillo

Parks and Recreation Assistant Department Director

Jennifer was assigned a complex special project: the

transition of the Head Start Program to Lutheran

Services Florida. From October 2013 to July 2,

2014, she was pulled from the Parks and

Recreation Department and assigned to the

Community Services Department to complete this

task…She accepted the challenge and her performance of

this special assignment exceeded expectations.

Many of us would require some time to carefully

consider this temporary, challenging re-assignment, but when

Jennifer Cirillo was first approached about it, she didn’t

hesitate. “I don’t have a lot of ‘quit’ in me,” says Cirillo. “It

was the most challenging thing I’ve done from a management

perspective, but I felt like a job needed to be done, and they

asked me to do it. It was that simple. I was honored, too, that

they thought I had what it takes to do the job.”

Diverse, specialized training and an unconventional

career path have provided Jennifer with a unique set of

skills that enabled her to take on and complete this

unexpected

assignment so

effectively.

Jennifer developed a passion for parks growing up within walking

distance of beautiful Presque Isle State Park in Pennsylvania where

she learned to sail, ice skate, ice fish, cross country ski, and canoe.

She now enjoys sharing the park (and Sara’s Ice Cream Shop) with her

kids Gabriel, age 14, and Grace, age 13.

“It’s where I saw my first interpretive program by a Park

Ranger and enjoyed the beach every warm day I could,” says Cirillo.

Originally from Erie, Pennsylvania, she developed a

love for basketball playing the sport with seven uncles who

Continued on page 15 Continued on page 16

“I don’t have a lot of ‘quit’ in me”

“His leadership is

demonstrated in multiple ways”


One of our long-time youth sports providers, the

PBC Youth Football League, was honored for

“Making An Extraordinary Difference” in their

community in a surprise event held at Lake

Lytal Park the evening of October 30.

Former professional New York Jets football player

Edwin Ross is now a local physical education teacher along

with his wife Shelia. Both are committed to the wellness

and health of today’s youth and have been actively involved

in supporting the PBC Youth Football League.

To the surprise of Mr. and Mrs. Ross, as well as the PBC

Youth Football League, TD Bank quietly arranged for an

unexpected event at which they donated $30,000 in football

and cheerleading equipment, games, and free food to over

500 league participants, volunteers, and family. Three retired

Miami Dolphins players were also present throughout the

event to give autographs and speak with the kids. TD Bank

had also arranged for bounce houses for the special occasion.

“I’ve been in this program for 15 years and have never

seen anything like this!” said one delighted parent.

Special thanks to the following staff for assisting with the

unexpected, behind-the-scenes arrangements that were needed:

Nancy Beale—for quickly coordinating

arrangements with the Film Commission.

Melissa Turner—for her coordination efforts and

attentiveness. She was able to work through the

planning and set-up process and keep the red tape to

a minimum. Her special event expertise and excellent

customer service shined throughout.

Michelle Terebinski—for providing guidance and

assisting Melissa to ensure we were appropriately

communicating information to park rangers and other

appropriate department staff ‘in secret.’

George Lacosta—for coordinating the extensive event

preparation so quickly with minimal staff to ensure we

complied with the confidentiality agreement.

Sherry Cleaves—for being on hand to provide

support throughout the event.

“Sherry Cleaves and I both agreed that last night’s

event was a true example of why we are in this

profession,” said Michelle Terebinski. “These

moments are truly special; when you get to see a

great program gain such well-deserved recognition.”

The PBC Youth Football League also conveyed its

thanks to everyone who assisted in making this event a

success. Check out the video for PBCYFB’s Team Gear

Day: http://www.youtube.com/watch?

v=dP7OgLCc4vo&list=PLnjBQWnUbZiEis5whNB0oZdY

LCyG4gg9U&index=1

Kelvin Greer Motor Equipment Operator II, Park Maintenance Division

Team member for 16 years (12 years full-time; 4 years part-time)

As part of the Glades District crew, Kelvin assists with cutting and trimming the grass and maintenance of all the parks in the district. His favorite part of the job is being able to work outdoors and spend time in our parks. Kelvin is an avid fisherman, catching anything that bites. He likes fishing from shore along the lake or ocean fishing along the coast in Stuart. Kelvin also enjoys spending time with his four children—3 boys and 1 girl that range in age from 5 to 18.

To George Lacosta:

“Thank you to the Parks crew for prepping the Lake Lytal

fields and common areas for this surprise special event. The

Lake Lytal multi-purpose fields and common areas looked

great last night. The special event donors commented on

what a beautiful facility we have here. Sherry [Cleaves] did

a great job last night and we are appreciative that she was

able to assist.” — Melissa Turner

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dP7OgLCc4vo&list=PLnjBQWnUbZiEis5whNB0oZdYLCyG4gg9U&index=1




“When Seymour Weiner enters [Green Cay]

wetlands with his camera, street sounds melt

away. He gets lost in the greenery and bird

calls. Sometimes, the 94-year-old spies an

alligator. Click…”

Read more in this Special to The Palm Beach Post

written by Faran Fagen: http://www.palmbeachpost.com/

news/news/local/retiree-finds-beauty-in-wetlands-

boardwalk/nhnWx/

The United Way Division Challenge was held at

Okeeheelee Golf Course on Thursday, October 23. Nine

teams of four players each competed in a team scramble

and raised $370 for the United Way of Palm Beach County.

The top four teams all recorded a score of 6 under par 30.

Tie breakers were used based on hole handicap and the

order of finish was as follows:

1st Place: (left to right) Park Maintenance Division’s

Frank Knapp, Ken Johnson, Craig Murphy, and

Gregg Irwin

2nd Place: Phil Henry (Park Ridge Manager), Rich

Smolen (John Prince Manager), Mallory Daniel

(Business Development Manager), Eric Garber

(Special Projects Coordinator)

3rd Place: Mac Hood (Okeeheelee Manager), Brad

Davis (Okeeheelee Golf Attendant), Ken Williams

(Okeeheelee Golf Attendant), Ken Smythe (Osprey

Point Asst. Manager)

4th Place: Tim King (Osprey Point Golf Attendant),

John Walwyn (Osprey Point Golf Attendant),

Dexter Charles (Osprey Point Volunteer),

Randolph Shafer (Osprey Point Volunteer)

Afternoon Delights in the Parks Division:

A sweet fund-raiser for United Way

(Left to right) Dian Daley, Heather Medina

(Left to right) Jane Lintner, Dian Daley, Terie Gempel

Ralph Solomon

Recreation

Services Director

Kathy Bolander

(left) and Athletics

Section Coordinator

Michelle Terebinski

were caught

enjoying our United

Way Payday

Popcorn on

Thursday

November 6th.

http://www.palmbeachpost.com/news/news/local/retiree-finds-beauty-in-wetlands-boardwalk/nhnWx/




(Left to right) Courtney Hanson, Carlos Duenas, Richard Gonzalez

The department’s United Way coordinators would like

to thank all who brought food and all who attended our

Boo Brunch.

Special thanks to BOO Brunch organizing committee

members Laurie Schobelock, Peggy Hawks, Michele

Bruno, Fawna Gallant, JoAnna Hertz, Indira Persaud,

Heather Medina, and Cliff Battles.

Boo Brunch was a huge success raising $300 toward

our department’s United Way contribution. Delicious food,

great company, and some of the most creative Halloween

costumes ever! Congratulations to the contest winners:

Mallory Daniel (Prego/Mama and her little meatball);

James Sansenbach (Braveheart); and Barbara Speerin

(Social Butterfly)

Rodolfo ‘Rudy’ Espinoza Motor Equipment Operator II, Park Maintenance Division

Team member for 25 years

Rudy handles park maintenance in our Glades District along with Kelvin Greer and Arman Irons. This typically includes cutting grass, cleaning bathrooms, and many other tasks that ensure our parks are beautiful and safe for patrons. Pioneer Park is his favorite, regardless of whether he’s on site working or visiting with family. When he’s not working, he can be found fishing (for speckled perch) or hunting (for rabbit). Rudy would like to visit Paris to see the Eiffel Tower and take a trip to Spain. Born in Mexico, he occasionally visits family in both Mexico and Chicago.

“Congratulations to our very own Parks and Recreation

Department Kickball Team who were victorious in this

year’s inaugural Give A Kick Tournament on November 4

benefitting United Way! Parks and Recreation won the

championship game over PalmTran 3-1.Way to go team!”

—Assistant Department Director Jennifer Cirillo


Special Olympics swimmer Angela Height was

the only representative from Aqua Crest Pool to

compete in the State Championships Swim

Meet in October. She placed 1st in the 50

freestyle and 2nd in the 100 freestyle and

received gold and silver.

From Left to right: Coach Anita, Assistant Coach Katy, Back Row: Paul

Rogers, Jeremy Adler, Michael Karp, Front Row: Melissa Riveros, Julie

Signorello, Angela Height

Angela Height swimming freestyle at Aqua Crest Pool in Delray Beach

“Lots of practice” is the key for Angela when she

prepares for competition. She loves being in the pool, but

swim practice is Angela’s favorite activity because it’s fun,

challenging, and she gets to be with her friends.

“Angela is a team player with a great attitude, and she

always comes to practice with a smile on her face!”

declared Coach Anita who trains Angela and her team

along with Assistant Coach Katy.

“I’m extremely happy for Angela, and she had

wonderful support from everyone on her team. They were

all excited to see her make it!” added Recreation Facility

Manager Alessandra Caliendo. “My staff and I are very

proud of the hard work she put into her practice here.”

To mark 100 years of Aquatics, the Red Cross

has set a goal to reduce the number of

drownings in the United States by 50% in 50

key markets. Palm Beach County’s drowning

rates are higher than the national average so it

was selected as one of the key markets.

The Parks and Recreation Department’s Aquatics

Division is honored to have been selected as the local

facility partner to participate in this new initiative. During

this 3-5 year initiative, we will be reaching out to teach

kids and adults who would not otherwise have this

opportunity to learn to swim. Water safety information will

also be distributed to parents and caregivers, and we’ll

teach them hands-on CPR and rescue skills.

To Michael Steele:

“The coachman of the Fairy Tale Pumpkin Carriage asked if I would thank you for your efforts in coordinating his twin daughters' party at the Okeeheelee pavilion. He said it was perfect!” — Wendy Stacy

By the way…the Clydesdale's name is Wyatt.

“We drive all the way up here because of the beach.

We love Carlin Park. This is the prettiest beach, we

love it!” —Debbie V.


Congratulations to GIS/CADD Technician Casey

Pranckun who officially became a State of

Florida Registered Landscape Architect on

October 20.

“It was a long process,” said Casey, “but the

completion is very rewarding.”

A landscape architect is licensed to design, draw,

directly supervise and approve, and seal construction

documents, details, and specifications for tangible objects

and irrigation systems.

Certificate qualifications included: A Masters Degree –

Florida International University Master of Landscape

Architecture (a 3 year program), Master of Landscape

Architecture (a 3 year program), Council of Landscape

Architectural Registration Boards record holder, 1 year of

work supervised by a registered landscape architect prior to

exams, passing a four section Landscape Architecture

Review Exam, and passing Section F Landscape Architect

Examination issued by the Florida Department of Business

Professional Regulation.

Casey is also a certified master gardener, a member of

ASLA (American Society of Landscape Architects), and a

member of FLASLA (Florida Chapter ASLA).

Congratulations, Casey!

Truck Driver Safety

Nationally, truck accidents are a major cause of

fatalities and severe traumatic injuries and property loss.

Our Parks Maintenance Division, over the past three years

alone, has experienced 51 accidents involving a variety of

truck types, and this figure represents over 67% of the total

Division accident instances. Thankfully, most of these

accidents were off road, low speed accidents involving

improper backing or striking a fixed object and no injuries.

To reduce the number of truck related accidents and

the potential for injuries, supervisors and staff are

encouraged to hold regularly scheduled safety meetings to

maintain a high level of safety awareness. Suggested topics

include:

Supervisors should hold an annual record review

with each driver.

Palm Beach County requires a clinic physical every

two years for those staff with CDL licenses who are

employed in a safety sensitive capacity.

Operators should do a thorough daily pre-trip

inspection of their truck and trailer.

Ensure scheduled maintenance is completed by

adhering to preventive maintenance schedules and

operator concerns.

Report any vehicle-related concerns to your

supervisor and to Fleet Management.

Inspect the brakes and tires for serviceable

conditions. Fix or replace them, if needed.

Check the vehicle load often. Tighten binders and

chains frequently.

Know your vehicle load. Loads handle differently

based upon load specifics.

Use your seat belt.

"We had our quarterly company function at Paul Rardin

Park today. The caretaker (Arman Irons) was very

pleasant and welcoming when he asked us if we had a

permit for the rental pavilion. He did a great job taking

care of the park and making sure it was used properly."

—Jeffrey O, Technical Operations Supervisor, Comcast

Arman Irons Maintenance Worker II/ Caretaker, Park Maintenance Division


Arman handles park maintenance in our Glades District along with Kelvin Greer and Rudy Espinoza. Each park has unique needs, and Arman and the others on his team

work hard to keep them safe and clean. He’s rewarded every time they see people enjoying themselves in one of their parks. After hours, Arman enjoys shooting pool, PlayStation, and basketball. He also coached baseball and basketball for his son.

To Bethany King, Osprey Point Golf Course Manager:

“…I just want to thank you for listening to the concerns of

the customers at Osprey…It’s always so beautiful at

Osprey and enjoy playing all the courses. The workers

are always so nice.” —Deborah G.


Be alert when you drive, and avoid distractions.

Obey county rules: do not use cell phones for calls

or texting while driving.

Constantly scan your mirrors. Be aware of blind

spots and of your surroundings.

Use a spotter when possible while backing.

Adjust your speed appropriately to match the driving

conditions you encounter.

Be aware of following distances; your truck doesn’t

stop on a dime.

Accidents can be prevented. Lowering risk through

safety awareness reduces the chance of an accident. Take

the time to hold safety briefings with your employees and

demonstrate your concern for them. Drive safely.

$AFETY PAYS

Sources: Forestry Mutual Insurance Co. – Safety Briefing for March

2008. Retrieved from http://www.forestrymutual.com/2013%

20safety%20meetings.

Palm Beach County’s Safety Policy PPM/CW-O-

005 provides guidance and basic requirements detailing

the elements of the County Safety program and the

responsibilities of all Palm Beach County employees to

be aware of and use the personal protective devices

required by their job. All staff should review this

important PPM.

Risk Management offered a Trailer Tie Down and

Transport Training class on November 3 for Parks and

Recreation Department staff. This class is required every

three years for anyone who regularly uses a trailer to

transport equipment and supplies. This training would also

be helpful for those that supervise these staff.

The Parks Division has tentatively scheduled a Coast

Guard Boater Safety Class on December 10th at the Phil

Foster Park training room. For more information, please

contact Dorothy Hayes at 966-6670 or by email at

[email protected].

Safety Tip #1:

Accidents ARE preventable – work safely and follow

instructions.

Safety Tip #2:

Take short breaks during long periods of repetitive

motion.

“…I happily take my dog Sparkie to the Lake Ida Dog

Park several times a week…My gratitude and

appreciation for all the hard work and effort to maintain

our dog park. Thank you for caring! Thank you for all

you do to make dogs happy here in Palm Beach County.

Please know that there are many people who feel the

same way. Dogs are an important part of all of our lives.”

—Jo Ann W.

The Parks Division hosted Front End Loader

Training at the Division Field Office training room on

November 4-5.

Back row: David Hanna, Quintin White, Edward Palmer, Mario

Vojkovic, Josue Lozada; Front row: Ralph Osgood, Robert

Iziquierdo, Alfredo Pulido, Brian Leidig, Joe Michael

The safety of employees and park patrons is a

priority here at Parks and Recreation.

Matthew Spicer, Central Parks District, and Dan Ross,

Therapeutic Recreation, participated in CPR training offered in

October.

A variety of training opportunities is available for staff

on an ongoing basis in conjunction with Risk

Management and other partners. For more information

on safety training opportunities that apply to your

particular job, check with your Supervisor or Division

training officer.

http://www.forestrymutual.com/2013%20safety%20meetings

http://www.forestrymutual.com/2013%20safety%20meetings


The John Prince Golf Learning Center has been

selected as a 2014 Golf Range Association of

America (GRAA) Top 50 Range in the Stand

Alone category.

This is the third year in a row this

popular golf facility has been selected

for this award. Congratulations!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an

annual campaign to increase awareness of the

disease.

Breast cancer is one of the leading health crises for

women in the United States. “1 in 8 women will be

diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime” according to

the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Members of the

Parks and Recreation team joined men and women across

the country in showing their support in the fight against

breast cancer by wearing pink on Friday, October

24….helping and inspiring hope to those affected by breast

cancer through early detection, education.

The Recreation Services Division hosted a “fun

day” wellness activity on October 28 at the TR

Complex Gym. Employees came together for a friendly

game of dodgeball and lunch. Teams included a mix of

Administration, Parks, and Recreation Services staff.

Employees enjoyed lunch together after the games

concluded. Everyone wins when we all participate in

wellness activities!

To Park Ridge Assistant Golf Course Manager Rich

Smolen and Travis McPheeters, Golf Assistant

Manager, John Prince Golf Learning Center:

“Please pass on to all the staff and volunteers [at John

Prince Golf Learning Center]… congratulate them on not

only a great job, but a great job of not missing a beat during

a difficult scheduling period for managers. I thought it was

excellent team work and it is greatly appreciated. The

same goes to you two for stepping up and covering many

jobs and decisions that you normally wouldn’t do.”

—Phil Henry, Manager, Park Ridge Golf Course

Congratulations to Financial and Support Division

Director Becky Pine and her mother Susan Bermann on

their recent graduation from the Get Golf Ready

program at the John Prince Golf Learning Center!


Young opossums were released back into the

wild, a new feature at the annual Halloween

Hoot ‘n’ Howl event on October 22.

Photo credit Keara Clancy

Read about the event held at Daggerwing Nature Center in

the Boca Raton News:

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/local/palm-beach/west-boca/

The 680 acre [Riverbend] park is criss-crossed

with hard-packed shell trails designed to be

shared by hikers and bicyclists.

FloridaRambler.com Getaways to the authentic

Florida selected Riverbend Park among their top eleven

favorites. Read more: http://www.floridarambler.com/

florida-bike-hike-trails/best-south-florida-bike-trails/

Bonnie Gross describes the scenic park with “trails ideal

for family biking…Quaint bridges, cypress-lined ponds,

shady pine forests, magnificent old live oak trees, a historic

battlefield, flocks of wild turkeys: They’re all part of the

lovely landscape that makes Riverbend Park in Jupiter a

delightful place to explore.” http://

www.floridarambler.com/florida-bike-hike-trails/riverbend

-park-trails-are-perfect-for-family-biking/

“The Morikami Museum is the only museum in

the U.S. dedicated exclusively to the living

culture of Japan.”

Morikami ranks among the “23 Reasons Florida (Yes,

Florida) Is Quite Possibly The Best State In America”

according to The Huffington Post. Read more: http://

www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/03/27/florida-best-

state_n_4981731.html

On November 1 Lakewood Park was turned

over to the Village of Palm Springs to operate

and maintain.

“The Jacobs Family and the Wellington Preservation

Coalition were pleased to sponsor the Hunter Classic

of the Wellington Summer Festival at the Jim

Brandon Equestrian Center. The Summer Festival

is part of the Wellington Citrus Series, a venue about

providing and developing young horses and riders to

gain valuable show-ring experience. In addition, we

presented a check to the Kids Cancer foundation to

support all the good works they do to help children

and families battling childhood cancer in our

community….” —Tom Wenham, Executive Director

Earl Campbell Maintenance Worker II, Park Maintenance Division


Another dedicated member of our Glades District crew is Earl Campbell. Earl takes pride in maintaining the beauty of the Glades parks by cutting, weeding, edging, and maintenance. Like the rest of his team, he most enjoys the opportunity to work outdoors and spend his day in the parks. Earl enjoys listening to music after he clocks out at the end of the day. His favorite music includes reggae, rhythm and blues, and gospel. He also enjoys playing football (AKA soccer here in the states). Originally from Jamaica, Earl would like to some day visit New York and see snow.

“I just love the graphics on this invitation! [to Memorial

Plaque Unveiling in memory of Leah Schad held

November 22] Chris [Korbelak, Public Relations

Specialist, Public Information Services] did a great job!”

—Kelli Dorschel, Naturalist, Okeeheelee Nature Center

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/local/palm-beach/boca-raton/fl-wbf-halloween-1022-20141022-story.html#navtype=outfit

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/local/palm-beach/west-boca/

http://www.floridarambler.com/florida-bike-hike-trails/best-south-florida-bike-trails/

http://www.floridarambler.com/florida-bike-hike-trails/best-south-florida-bike-trails/

http://www.floridarambler.com/florida-bike-hike-trails/riverbend-park-trails-are-perfect-for-family-biking/



http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/03/27/florida-best-state_n_4981731.html




Continued on page 13

Over 1500 people attended this year’s Migration

Celebration at Green Cay Nature Center and

Wetlands on November 15.

“There were hundreds and hundreds of people who

visited on what turned out to be an amazing sunny and

comfortable November day. Linda Fell and I did a ‘Big

Sit’ as part of the festivities. A Big Sit is where you stay in

one spot and see how many birds you can find from that set

spot.” Read more by blogger sheriffsmith: http://

palmbeachcountynaturally.wordpress.com/2014/11/16/

green-cay-migration-day-the-big-sit/

See more pictures of the 2014 Migration Celebration on

Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/pbcparks/

sets/72157648934344678/

Recreation Services’ annual ‘State of The

Division’ meeting was held on Nov 7. The event

includes full-, part-time and seasonal employees.

Team members:

were able to share all the great programs and

services going on within their section;

learned more about the upcoming changes in

operations from a division/department perspective

and why these changes are necessary;

learned more about job openings within the division/

department;

gained an understanding of where we are headed as

a department/division in FY 15; and

rewarded and recognized employees nominated by

their colleagues and supervisors.

This year the program supervisors and the director

gave out pavers, each with a customized quote, to

recognize six team members in the division:

Jim Henneman, Manager, West Boynton

Recreation Center, recognized by Donald Campbell:

“Taking One for the Team” – A good leader takes a little

more than his share of the blame, a little less than his share

of the credit. – Arnold H. Gaslow

Renata Watson: Manager, West Jupiter Recreation

Center, recognized by Donald Campbell: “Responsibility

over Popularity” – Being responsible sometimes means

pissing people off. – Colin Powell

Peggy LaVenture, Senior Secretary, John Prince

Park Administration, recognized by Kathy Bolander:

“Excellence is not a Skill. It is an Attitude!!” – Ralph

Marston

Melissa Turner: Recreation Specialist II, Athletics,

recognized by Kathy Bolander: “Excellence is the result of

caring more than others think is wise, Risking more than

others think is safe, Dreaming more than others think is

practical, and Expecting more than others think is

possible. – Ronnie Oldham

Callie Sharkey, Manager, Daggerwing Nature

Center, recognized by Jackie Lambert: “A great leader’s

courage to fulfill her vision comes from passion not

position.” – John Maxwell

To Recreation Facility Manager II Stacy Staebell:

“It was a pleasure meeting you and touring the facility – the information was extremely helpful and insightful….” —Michele Thompson, Director, City of Greenacres Leisure Services Department

“Green Cay’s Migration Celebration was GREAT! All the

staff and volunteers did a fantastic job!”

http://palmbeachcountynaturally.wordpress.com/2014/11/16/green-cay-migration-day-the-big-sit/



https://www.flickr.com/photos/pbcparks/sets/72157648934344678/



Scott Lillian, MW I, West Jupiter Recreation

Center, recognized by Jackie Lambert: “Leadership is not

about titles, positions or flow charts. It is about one life

influencing another”. – John Maxwell

Watch for profiles of 2014 Recreation Services

Division award winners in upcoming issues of The

GameChanger!

Congratulations to Noel Hermane— Parks

Division’s Employee of the Month for October

Noel Hermane, Maintenance Worker II, Central

District

“Always ready to assist when called upon and helps

out with a great attitude”

“Very good attitude and always there when you need

him”

“He has proven himself time after time to help out

when needed and complete tasks that are unfamiliar to

him. His dedication to the job is commendable.”

Congratulations to Ed Greenan— Parks

Division’s Employee of the Month for November

Ed Greenan, Certified Playground Safety Inspector

“This employee is a hard worker with a great attitude

and a willingness to always lend a helping hand towards

the successful completion of projects.”

“He is a team player, dependable and he always goes

out of his way to find alternative ways to perform repairs

in an efficient manner. His dedication and remarkable

work ethic are seen time and time again throughout the

performance of his job assignments.”

Okeeheelee Golf Course: “9 Holes for a Great Price”

This is just a well kept, beautiful little course. The price is

right and the surroundings very pretty. I’m no pro but the

players I was with have golfed all over the world and

agreed it was a hidden gem.”—tripadvisor.com

To Cameron Morris, Recreation Specialist I, West

Boynton Recreation Center:

“My name is Bill Grube, assistant coach of Tidal Waves

8-10... I want to tell you that my family and I are having a

great experience this season. The [volleyball] league is

well run and I really appreciate you sharing the dates for

next season so far in advance. See you in the gym.”


Help Parks and Recreation preserve an

important piece of its history!

The Pineapple Packing House restoration project has

been selected by NRPA as one of its Crowdfunding

projects. Over the course of a 45-day campaign launching

on November 25, donors will be able to make donations on

the NRPA website. Help spread the word and support the

preservation of local history! To donate, go to

www.pbcparks.com beginning November 25, and follow

the Fund Your Park links!

An estimated 800 area school children, local

residents, and tourists had an opportunity to

experience living history at Loxahatchee River

Battlefield Park in mid-November.

There was something every member of the family

could enjoy at the 2014 Fall Muster, including an army

encampment and a Seminole camp, exhibits, and historical

weapons demonstrations throughout the day. The cool,

sunny weather clearly enhanced the beautiful setting

underneath the canopy of oak trees. Battlefield walks were

led by Loxahatchee Battlefield Preservationists.

See more pictures of the 2014 Fall Muster on Flickr:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/pbcparks/

sets/72157647011245964/#

Chris Davenport, PBC Archeologist and Historic Preservation Officer,

was featured among the speakers who enjoyed sharing delightful

stories about the fascinating history of the park and surrounding

area. Other speakers included Richard Procyck, Pedro Zepeda, and

Guy Bachman.

Cretzer Barthelus, Maintenance Worker II, is a new member of the

team at Riverbend Park.

To Campground Attendant Lisa Meese, Recreation

Programs Coordinator Steven Schilly, and Public

Relations Specialist Chris Korbelak:

“Great work getting the [Peanut Island Campground map]

site data and pictures Lisa & Steve. Chris – you are the

graphics guru. Thank you for the great map design.”—

Parks District Operations Supervisor George Lacosta

To Special Projects Coordinator Indira Persaud:

“I'm the Site Supervisor for Early Voting at South County

Civic Center...On behalf of myself and my staff during

both the primary and general early voting 2-week cycles,

it is my privilege to tell you what a terrific group of folks

you have working at the Civic Center. They could not

have been more accommodating to us during either of

the times we spent worked at the Center…I had an

opportunity to personally thank each member of your

staff... in particular, Sarah Thompson, Fred Jarvis,

Luis Castano, Patsy Ivy and Chris Dolk. Each and

every one of these folks went above and beyond what

was expected of them to make our time at the Civic

Center during both the primary and general elections as

friendly and pleasant as possible…

http://www.pbcparks.com




He left the Recreation Division for a promotion to

Athletic Field Coordinator in our Parks Division in 1986.

The position had been newly created to serve as a liaison

between athletic programming staff in the Recreation

Division and field maintenance staff in Parks. His role

helped to bridge understanding between both operations

and enhance cooperative efforts.

A year and a half later, he was promoted to District

Operations Supervisor where he was responsible for

maintenance in four park districts. He also assisted the

Parks Division Director with budget preparation and

oversight, and he helped develop strategies for moving the

division forward. Our population was growing rapidly, and

the department was expanding quickly. Eric was soon

promoted to Assistant Parks Division Director, a position

he would hold for over two years. In 1992, he became the

Parks Division Director.

In December 1995 he was promoted to Assistant Director

of Parks and Recreation. For fifteen years Eric directed and

coordinated the efforts of our department operations and,

working closely with past

director Dennis Eshleman and

planning staff, he helped to

develop the strategies that

enabled our department to

effectively navigate an amazing growth in park development

and expansion of programs and services.

Since October 2010, Eric Call has served as Director

of Parks and Recreation. His professional passion and his

coaching and leadership style have guided us through a

tough economic downturn. His unique understanding of

our department cultivated through his various positions and

responsibilities over the years has also served us all well as

we continue to adapt and re-shape our organization.

“Yes, we have far fewer resources; staff has been

frustrated. They’ve voiced concern when they haven’t had

the resources to do the job, yet our park patrons see our

park system as being just as good as ever. Our sports fields

still look good, and they’re safe to play on. People continue

to enjoy our picnic areas and open space. Beaches are

guarded and safe. That’s a tribute to the kind of staff we

have who’ve bought into the high standards we’ve set in

maintenance and programming.”

Eric stresses the need to continue our shift towards a

business model, enhancing revenue where we can, and

partnering with other agencies to trim operating and

maintenance costs and

provide our services more

efficiently. He points to

successes: our golf facilities

are fully cost recoverable and

generate revenue. A use agreement was recently established

with Royal Palm Beach who assumed operation and

management costs and responsibility for the four soccer

fields at Seminole Palms Park.

With the ongoing and expanding retirement of many

experienced, career employees, Eric has instituted a

succession plan designed to pass on important historic and

working knowledge of our department and its operations.

“It mandates that staff coach up their bench strength,”

says Call. “It’s critical that we evaluate our staff for future

leadership positions, and it’s not surprising to find that we

have quality folks who, with a bit more coaching, will be

ready.”

“We have a great group of employees; even those

recently hired. They’re buying into this program and

learning the skill set necessary to meet the high standards

we’ve set.”

Eric will be presented a 2014 Community Giant Award

sponsored by Inner City Youth Golfers (ICYG) in

December. ICYG is an academic excellence and golf

program that uses golf to help inner city children focus on

the positive, mold them into good citizens, and make them

future role models. He was inducted into the University of

Florida College of Health and Human Performance Alumni

Hall of Fame last year.

Eric Call continued from page 3

Our hours were long, particularly in the general election,

and each member of your staff on different days came in

as early as 5:30 am each morning to accommodate our

early arrival and stayed as late as necessary until we left

in the evening... I can't say enough what a great staff

you have working at the [South County] Civic

Center…”—Fran Rowland, Site Supervisor

To Golf Course Supervisor Paul Connell:

“I have never seen a more patient or organized man than

the starter yesterday; I wish I’d gotten his name. [Tom

Draur] He is worth his weight in gold!”—Craig Murphy,

Park Maintenance Division Director

“We have such a dedicated and committed work

force,” says Call, “and the high standards we put in

place when we had ample resources have held true.


Michael David Kingsrud: Golf Attendant, Osprey Point

Johnny Kleckley: MEO II, Jim Brandon Equestrian Ctr.

David Mallouk: Golf Attendant, Osprey Point (Seas.)

Michael Nester: Golf Attendant, Osprey Point (Seas.)

Scott Deiseroth: Park Ranger, Parks Division

Cretzer Barthelus: MWII, Rec. Services, Riverbend Park

Retirement

Clive Pinnock Okeeheelee Nature Center Manager 11/1998 - 10/2014

John Wood Maintenance Worker III, Parks South District 10/2000 - 10/2014

On the move From To

Kamar Williams Calypso Bay Waterpark (Seasonal) Rec. Specialist I, North County Pool

Christopher Sheripitis North County (Seasonal) Pool Lifeguard North County Pool (FT)

Vincent Vasquez MEOII, County Engineering MEOII, Parks District South

Orlando Rios MWII, Parks Central MEOIII, Parks Renovation Coordination

Jose Barajas MWII, Parks Central Irrigation Technician, Parks Trades

Stanley Mongo MWII, Parks Central MEOIII, Parks Renovation Coordination

Welcome

Elbert Dean Mays: Rec. Services, Athletics (Seas.)

Chandler Brinkman: Rec. Services, Athletics (Seas.)

Omar Avila Rodriquez: Ocean Rescue Lifeguard (Seas.)

Tomasz Przedpelski: Ocean Rescue Lifeguard (Seas.)

Richard Sheppard: Ocean Rescue Lifeguard (Seas.)

Keshia Vazquez-Centeno: Ocean Rescue Lifeguard (Seas.)

were close to her in age. Her family moved to Tamarac when

Jennifer was fourteen, and at her new school here in South

Florida, she joined the basketball team. They won the State

Championship her junior year. (Her name hangs in the

gymnasium of J.P. Taravella High School to this day!)

Cirillo considered the medical field and business when

deciding on a college major and career. She opted for

business and earned a full basketball scholarship to attend

Broward Community College. She received an Associate

Degree in Business Administration, later received a Bachelors

Degree in International Business from Florida Atlantic

University, followed by a Masters Degree in Business

Administration with a specialization in Sports Administration

from Lynn University. She once aspired to become a college

athletic director.

Along the way, in addition to being an athlete and a

student, she volunteered as a candy striper, worked as a

Therapeutic Rec Aide in a head trauma hospital (where she

first met her husband), was a summer basketball camp

counselor, opened (and closed) a used sports equipment store

called Instant Replay, became a mom (two times), was a sales

representative for USA Today, and a grass roots marketer for

a company promoting hospitals and health care systems.

In a local hospital, she taught nurses how to use a computer

system, wrote clinical policies and procedures, learned medical

shorthand so she could serve as a Health Unit Coordinator, and as

a Patient Care Practice Coordinator, she ran the policy committee.

She worked in human resources, and she added the job of Sports

Director to her resume when a

new YMCA facility opened.

By the time Jennifer

joined our team ten years ago

as a Special Projects

Coordinator in Recreation

Services, she’d gained an

unusually wide and valuable

range of experiences that she’s

used to benefit us all.

She was promoted to

Recreation Program Supervisor

in 2007 and to Recreation

Services Division Director in

2010. She was asked to serve as

Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation shortly thereafter.

Cirillo describes herself as a ‘rule follower’ and insists on

establishing policy to ensure consistency and to support the

efforts of employees. But her insistence on following rules

and holding people accountable for their behavior are

balanced with considerable empathy and compassion.

She thinks it’s a great day when she gets to walk in a

park, spend a day with the kids in an after school program, or

spend time with employees.

“I’m just privileged to be part of this team,” says Cirillo.

“There’s no other department that’s quite like this. Even

though we have our challenges along the way, we do great

work, and that’s rewarding to me.”

Jennifer Cirillo continued from page 3

Jennifer shows her support for

United Way on Halloween as

World War II icon Rosie the

Riveter.


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Email: [email protected]

Parks and Recreation is on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, and

YouTube. The next time you snap a picture, send us your image and let us

share it with the community! We post your images to encourage more

people to take advantage of our amazing county park system.

The GameChanger Contributors

Cathy Austen: Employees On the Move

Kara Cowser: Volunteer News & Spotlights

Pam Giust: Employee Profiles

Chris Korbelak: Graphic Design

Jackie Lambert: Your Health & Wellness

Tom Landy: Safety Corner

Stephanie Surrena: Employee Profiles

Debbie Thatcher: Writer/Editor

We create opportunities for healthy, happy living!

Palm Beach County

Board of County Commissioners

Shelley Vana, Mayor, Mary Lou Berger, Vice Mayor

Hal R. Valeche, Paulette Burdick, Steven L. Abrams

Melissa McKinlay, Priscilla A. Taylor

County Administrator

Robert Weisman

Assistant County Administrator

Jon Van Arnam

Parks and Recreation Department

Eric Call, Director

Jennifer Cirillo, Assistant Director

Rosa Caceres

Ranger Tom Alcock

Ranger Marie Fiore

Kim Potter

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