Below is a high-level overview of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 that will provide you with some context on what to expect as a result of the new legislation.
Increased Down payment requirements:
Minimum contribution will increase from 3.0% to 3.5% of the appraised value. Seller funded Down Payment Assistant Programs (“DAPs”) or funds from any other interested party to the transaction will be prohibited on all loans where final credit approval has not been established by September 30, 2008.
Risk Based Premiums:
Up Front and Monthly Mortgage Insurance Premiums implemented on July 14, 2008 will change on October 1, 2008.
Condominiums:
Guidelines for project approval will be relaxed, likely by year end.
Reverse Mortgages (HECM):
Changes to loan limits and origination fees.
HOPE for Homeowners:
Program designed to assist eligible at risk borrowers through refinancing into a new FHA insured loan. Program guidelines yet to be defined by HUD.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Park and Recreation Update
Ø Volunteers in the Park: For Fiscal Year 2008, Mecklenburg Park and Recreation received community support from more than 14,500 volunteers. They contributed 114,188 hours of help for our department. The value of their donation of time was more than $2.1 million.
The department is now looking for volunteers to help with the Hearts and Hands playground construction. This is a fully accessible playground in Nevin Park where children of all abilities will be able to play side by side.
COMMUNITY AND RECREATION CENTER SERVICES
Ø Neighborhood Crime Prevention Plan: First Ward Recreation Center will host a Community Meeting focusing on crime prevention as part of National Night Out on Tuesday, August 5. Representatives from the different various neighborhood associations and citizens in the community will meet with community police officers to discuss ways to cut crime in the area. They will begin working on an overall Neighborhood Crime Prevention Plan. We are excited about uniting the community against rising crime in the area.
Ø 2008 National Night Out: Arbor Glen Outreach Center will host the 2008 National Night Out for the West Boulevard Corridor on Tuesday, Aug 5 from 6:00-9:00pm. The event will be free to the community with food, music, prizes, and a dance contest. Event is designed to raise community awareness and as a demonstration against crime and drugs. Southview, Amay James and Arbor Glen Outreach Center staff will team up with the Stratford Richardson YMCA, Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, City Dive, Vision Charlotte, and community leaders of 17 neighborhoods along the West Boulevard Corridor to make this a great community event.
Ø International Clown Week: On Monday, August 4, Tuckaseegee Recreation Center will celebrate International Clown Week with a day that honors clowning! Carolina Clowns will perform and teach us tricks of the trade. The YWCA Summer Camp will provide face painting, while the MADE Summer Camp will perform some clown routines! Rubber chickens, snow cones, RAY, and free lunch for those under 18 will also help make this event special!
Ø Constitution Day- Puerto Rico: Marion Diehl Recreation Center partnered with the Puerto Rican Cultural Society of Charlotte and the Latin American Coalition to celebrate "Constitution Day of Puerto Rico" on Saturday, July 26. The event was a great drew more than 300 patrons. They enjoyed traditional songs, food, music, art and dances of Puerto Rico.
Ø Mecklenburg 4-H Teens Attend NC 4-H Congress: Nine Mecklenburg County 4-H teens attended the annual NC 4-H Congress the week of July 21-25. These teens participate in 4-H through recreation center programs, YWCA programs and community clubs. This leadership and citizenship conference was held on the campus of NC State University. Throughout the week, the teens participated in workshops covering topics such as careers, electric, healthy choices, and government involvement. The Mecklenburg delegation was a part of more than 800 teen 4-H’ers from across North Carolina.
Ø 4-H’ers Ready for Summer Camp: Mecklenburg County 4-H is taking a delegation of 40 campers, ages 8-13, to a week-long residential summer camp at Millstone 4-H Center in Ellerbe, NC. They will depart Sunday, August 3 and return on Friday, August 8. While at camp, the youth will enjoy swimming, canoeing, archery, riflery, horseback riding, crafts and many other traditional camp experiences.
Ø 4-H Volunteer Workshop: Calling anyone interested in volunteering with a 4-H club throughout 2009! Mecklenburg County 4-H is offering an Introduction to 4-H Clubs workshop on Monday, August 4th from 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. for anyone interested in volunteering. The workshop will be held at the 4-H Office (1418 Armory Drive). Participants will learn the basics of 4-H, including how to start and manage a 4-H club.
Ø Annual Eastside Back to School Festival: Partnership team consisting of Weed & Seed (East side), MeckCares and Mecklenburg County Park & Recreation Department completed plans to provide the 1st Annual Eastside Back to School Festival, scheduled for August 2 from 11am – 3pm at Eastland Mall. This is the first Eastside Back to School Festival hosted by above partners. Moe than 20 service agencies will be on hand to provide students and families in east Charlotte information and resources to help prepare them for academic success during the school year. Entertainment and educational sessions will be provided during the event for children and adults. Prizes will be given to participants who complete the Passport to Academic Success!
NATURE PRESERVES AND NATURAL RESOURCES
Ø Academic Research: Both the herbarium and zoological collections housed in the newly named "Dr. James F. Matthews Center for Biodiversity Studies" in Reedy Creek Nature Preserve are being used by researchers involved in 4 different research projects this month. These partners are from: the University of South Carolina - Columbia, UNC-Chapel Hill, Belmont Abbey College, and the Schiele Museum of Natural History.
ENTERPRISE SERVICES
Ø Track & Field: Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation and the Charlotte Flights Track and Field Club sponsored twenty-two local youth who participated in the 2008 Junior Olympics in Omaha, Nebraska from July 22-27. Khayla Dawson placed first and brought home a gold medal in the shot put with a heave of 28’8”. The 4 X 100 meter relay team consisting of Calvin Haines, Jalen Porter, Aaron Tindall and Jacquece placed third and brought home bronze medals. Chanin Scott placed fifth in the 800 meter run. “Well done!” to all of local athletes who advanced from regional and state events to participate.
Ø Memorial Stadium: Staff met with City Council Member James Mitchell, Charlotte Department of Transportation, City Special Events staff, Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department and the Athletic Director and staff of North Carolina Central University to start the strategic planning process for the NC Central vs. NC A & T football game. The game is scheduled for October 4 at Memorial Stadium. Discussions focused on the estimated attendance, marketing, traffic plan and facility logistics.
CAPITAL PLANNING AND ALLIANCE DEVELOPMENT
Ø Romare Bearden Park: Planning staff conducted the final stakeholder design meeting for the Park. The stakeholder group, made up of representatives from the surrounding neighborhood, adjacent business owners and the City, has provided meaningful feedback and direction as the design has progressed. The department will now begin preparing construction documents with an anticipated late spring 2009 construction start. (See artist’s conception of park, next page.)
Ø Pearle Street Park: The Urban Land Institute conducted a design charette for the Charlotte Regional Realtor Association. The one day design exercise looked at the possibilities and opportunities for the site directly adjacent to the park. As the area around the park redevelops, Park Planning staff is working with the City and adjoining property owners to plan a much needed face lift to the Park.
Ø Berewick Park/Rec. Center Plans Review: The review period for the 50% Berewick construction documents concluded this week. Staff compiled a lot of good comments and will be discussing them with the consultant next week. Project bidding is expected this Fall, 2008.
Ø Greenprinting: Planning staff attended Green Printing Training with County GIS. The Trust for Public Land developed this program for Park & Recreation as part of the recently completed 2008 Parks Master Plan. Planning staff will be able to use this powerful model for objective, detailed site analysis and needs assessment in regards to all future land acquisitions.
Ø Nevin Accessible Playground Organization Day: Plans are currently being finalized for this special event set for Thursday, August 7 from 11am - 6pm. This important event will allow individual committees to meet with representatives from Leathers & Associates to check on progress and map out a strategy for the final stages of the project. The day will be spent reviewing the site, the final design, meeting with individual committees, and clarifying schedules, plans, responsibilities and other details for construction. There will be multiple meetings throughout the day, such as: a site review, stakeout review, individual committees update reviews, construction captains informational, and an overall summary meeting.
GREENWAY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Ø Little Sugar Creek Greenway - Belmont Ave. to Alexander St. Park: The contractor has paved a portion of the greenway trail from Belmont Ave. to the top of bank of Belmont Branch. Shoring system design plans are still under review by CSX's engineering consultant, and should be approved soon. Contractor has also cleared and graded on the Alexander Street Park side of the railroad. Once shoring system is installed, the contractor will spend the next month installing the pedestrian underpass structure, and installing the bridge across Belmont Branch.
Ø Little Sugar Creek Greenway - Baxter St to Morehead St: Precast walls are now being installed for the central large fountain.
Ø Little Sugar Creek Greenway - Charlottetowne Ave to Pearle St Bridge (Metropolitan): Next week, this section of greenway will be advertised for bids.
Ø Clark's Creek - Tributary #2: Staff from Greenways and Natural Resources met with City of Charlotte Storm Water services this week regarding a stream restoration planned along a tributary of Clark's Creek that runs through the northern half of the Huck's Road Nature Preserve property, which is also a future greenway corridor.
The department is now looking for volunteers to help with the Hearts and Hands playground construction. This is a fully accessible playground in Nevin Park where children of all abilities will be able to play side by side.
COMMUNITY AND RECREATION CENTER SERVICES
Ø Neighborhood Crime Prevention Plan: First Ward Recreation Center will host a Community Meeting focusing on crime prevention as part of National Night Out on Tuesday, August 5. Representatives from the different various neighborhood associations and citizens in the community will meet with community police officers to discuss ways to cut crime in the area. They will begin working on an overall Neighborhood Crime Prevention Plan. We are excited about uniting the community against rising crime in the area.
Ø 2008 National Night Out: Arbor Glen Outreach Center will host the 2008 National Night Out for the West Boulevard Corridor on Tuesday, Aug 5 from 6:00-9:00pm. The event will be free to the community with food, music, prizes, and a dance contest. Event is designed to raise community awareness and as a demonstration against crime and drugs. Southview, Amay James and Arbor Glen Outreach Center staff will team up with the Stratford Richardson YMCA, Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, City Dive, Vision Charlotte, and community leaders of 17 neighborhoods along the West Boulevard Corridor to make this a great community event.
Ø International Clown Week: On Monday, August 4, Tuckaseegee Recreation Center will celebrate International Clown Week with a day that honors clowning! Carolina Clowns will perform and teach us tricks of the trade. The YWCA Summer Camp will provide face painting, while the MADE Summer Camp will perform some clown routines! Rubber chickens, snow cones, RAY, and free lunch for those under 18 will also help make this event special!
Ø Constitution Day- Puerto Rico: Marion Diehl Recreation Center partnered with the Puerto Rican Cultural Society of Charlotte and the Latin American Coalition to celebrate "Constitution Day of Puerto Rico" on Saturday, July 26. The event was a great drew more than 300 patrons. They enjoyed traditional songs, food, music, art and dances of Puerto Rico.
Ø Mecklenburg 4-H Teens Attend NC 4-H Congress: Nine Mecklenburg County 4-H teens attended the annual NC 4-H Congress the week of July 21-25. These teens participate in 4-H through recreation center programs, YWCA programs and community clubs. This leadership and citizenship conference was held on the campus of NC State University. Throughout the week, the teens participated in workshops covering topics such as careers, electric, healthy choices, and government involvement. The Mecklenburg delegation was a part of more than 800 teen 4-H’ers from across North Carolina.
Ø 4-H’ers Ready for Summer Camp: Mecklenburg County 4-H is taking a delegation of 40 campers, ages 8-13, to a week-long residential summer camp at Millstone 4-H Center in Ellerbe, NC. They will depart Sunday, August 3 and return on Friday, August 8. While at camp, the youth will enjoy swimming, canoeing, archery, riflery, horseback riding, crafts and many other traditional camp experiences.
Ø 4-H Volunteer Workshop: Calling anyone interested in volunteering with a 4-H club throughout 2009! Mecklenburg County 4-H is offering an Introduction to 4-H Clubs workshop on Monday, August 4th from 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. for anyone interested in volunteering. The workshop will be held at the 4-H Office (1418 Armory Drive). Participants will learn the basics of 4-H, including how to start and manage a 4-H club.
Ø Annual Eastside Back to School Festival: Partnership team consisting of Weed & Seed (East side), MeckCares and Mecklenburg County Park & Recreation Department completed plans to provide the 1st Annual Eastside Back to School Festival, scheduled for August 2 from 11am – 3pm at Eastland Mall. This is the first Eastside Back to School Festival hosted by above partners. Moe than 20 service agencies will be on hand to provide students and families in east Charlotte information and resources to help prepare them for academic success during the school year. Entertainment and educational sessions will be provided during the event for children and adults. Prizes will be given to participants who complete the Passport to Academic Success!
NATURE PRESERVES AND NATURAL RESOURCES
Ø Academic Research: Both the herbarium and zoological collections housed in the newly named "Dr. James F. Matthews Center for Biodiversity Studies" in Reedy Creek Nature Preserve are being used by researchers involved in 4 different research projects this month. These partners are from: the University of South Carolina - Columbia, UNC-Chapel Hill, Belmont Abbey College, and the Schiele Museum of Natural History.
ENTERPRISE SERVICES
Ø Track & Field: Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation and the Charlotte Flights Track and Field Club sponsored twenty-two local youth who participated in the 2008 Junior Olympics in Omaha, Nebraska from July 22-27. Khayla Dawson placed first and brought home a gold medal in the shot put with a heave of 28’8”. The 4 X 100 meter relay team consisting of Calvin Haines, Jalen Porter, Aaron Tindall and Jacquece placed third and brought home bronze medals. Chanin Scott placed fifth in the 800 meter run. “Well done!” to all of local athletes who advanced from regional and state events to participate.
Ø Memorial Stadium: Staff met with City Council Member James Mitchell, Charlotte Department of Transportation, City Special Events staff, Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department and the Athletic Director and staff of North Carolina Central University to start the strategic planning process for the NC Central vs. NC A & T football game. The game is scheduled for October 4 at Memorial Stadium. Discussions focused on the estimated attendance, marketing, traffic plan and facility logistics.
CAPITAL PLANNING AND ALLIANCE DEVELOPMENT
Ø Romare Bearden Park: Planning staff conducted the final stakeholder design meeting for the Park. The stakeholder group, made up of representatives from the surrounding neighborhood, adjacent business owners and the City, has provided meaningful feedback and direction as the design has progressed. The department will now begin preparing construction documents with an anticipated late spring 2009 construction start. (See artist’s conception of park, next page.)
Ø Pearle Street Park: The Urban Land Institute conducted a design charette for the Charlotte Regional Realtor Association. The one day design exercise looked at the possibilities and opportunities for the site directly adjacent to the park. As the area around the park redevelops, Park Planning staff is working with the City and adjoining property owners to plan a much needed face lift to the Park.
Ø Berewick Park/Rec. Center Plans Review: The review period for the 50% Berewick construction documents concluded this week. Staff compiled a lot of good comments and will be discussing them with the consultant next week. Project bidding is expected this Fall, 2008.
Ø Greenprinting: Planning staff attended Green Printing Training with County GIS. The Trust for Public Land developed this program for Park & Recreation as part of the recently completed 2008 Parks Master Plan. Planning staff will be able to use this powerful model for objective, detailed site analysis and needs assessment in regards to all future land acquisitions.
Ø Nevin Accessible Playground Organization Day: Plans are currently being finalized for this special event set for Thursday, August 7 from 11am - 6pm. This important event will allow individual committees to meet with representatives from Leathers & Associates to check on progress and map out a strategy for the final stages of the project. The day will be spent reviewing the site, the final design, meeting with individual committees, and clarifying schedules, plans, responsibilities and other details for construction. There will be multiple meetings throughout the day, such as: a site review, stakeout review, individual committees update reviews, construction captains informational, and an overall summary meeting.
GREENWAY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Ø Little Sugar Creek Greenway - Belmont Ave. to Alexander St. Park: The contractor has paved a portion of the greenway trail from Belmont Ave. to the top of bank of Belmont Branch. Shoring system design plans are still under review by CSX's engineering consultant, and should be approved soon. Contractor has also cleared and graded on the Alexander Street Park side of the railroad. Once shoring system is installed, the contractor will spend the next month installing the pedestrian underpass structure, and installing the bridge across Belmont Branch.
Ø Little Sugar Creek Greenway - Baxter St to Morehead St: Precast walls are now being installed for the central large fountain.
Ø Little Sugar Creek Greenway - Charlottetowne Ave to Pearle St Bridge (Metropolitan): Next week, this section of greenway will be advertised for bids.
Ø Clark's Creek - Tributary #2: Staff from Greenways and Natural Resources met with City of Charlotte Storm Water services this week regarding a stream restoration planned along a tributary of Clark's Creek that runs through the northern half of the Huck's Road Nature Preserve property, which is also a future greenway corridor.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
South Beach Cold Cuts
Choosing the Best Cold Cuts
Presliced deli lunch meats provide protein and make for handy on-the-go eating. But before you stop at the deli counter, check out this shopping guide to learn which meats are South Beach Diet-recommended and which ingredients you should avoid:
Choose lean meats that are low in saturated fat. Fresh turkey breast, boiled ham, and chicken breast are all great choices. Lean roast beef is also fine.
Avoid processed meats with fillers. Fillers are carbohydrate additives that are used to hold the meat together and reduce production costs. Look for modified food starch, wheat starch, and corn starch in the ingredient list, and avoid products made with these fillers unless they appear near the end of the ingredient list. If this is the case, the amount of starch is minuscule.
Steer clear of meats with added sugar like honey-baked ham or honey-roasted turkey. If you'd like to add more flavor to your deli meat, try spreading a little mustard or mayonnaise on it.
Presliced deli lunch meats provide protein and make for handy on-the-go eating. But before you stop at the deli counter, check out this shopping guide to learn which meats are South Beach Diet-recommended and which ingredients you should avoid:
Choose lean meats that are low in saturated fat. Fresh turkey breast, boiled ham, and chicken breast are all great choices. Lean roast beef is also fine.
Avoid processed meats with fillers. Fillers are carbohydrate additives that are used to hold the meat together and reduce production costs. Look for modified food starch, wheat starch, and corn starch in the ingredient list, and avoid products made with these fillers unless they appear near the end of the ingredient list. If this is the case, the amount of starch is minuscule.
Steer clear of meats with added sugar like honey-baked ham or honey-roasted turkey. If you'd like to add more flavor to your deli meat, try spreading a little mustard or mayonnaise on it.
South Beach Shrimp Salad
Shrimp Salad With Herb-Dill Dressing
Herbs are a must when it comes to cooking full-flavored, delicious meals — and fresh dill is no exception. It's often used for creating summery main-dish salads and seasoning seafood and lean meats. Here is a delicious recipe flavored with dill for your recipe box.
Shrimp Salad With Herb-Dill Dressing (Phase 1)
Serves 2
Ingredients Shrimp 1/2 cup dry white wine1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds1⁄8 teaspoon red-pepper flakes1 bay leaf1/2 lemon, sliced3/4 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Herb-Dill Dressing 1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil1 1/2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar1 tablespoon water1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill1/2 teaspoon finely chopped garlic1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard1/4 medium onion, sliced1/2 large head romaine lettuce2 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges3 fresh mushrooms, slicedFresh dill sprigs (optional)
Instructions To make the shrimp: Combine the wine, mustard seeds, pepper flakes, bay leaf, and lemon in a large saucepan. Add water to fill the pan two-thirds full. Bring to a boil over high heat. Add the shrimp, and cook for 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp have turned pink and are no longer translucent in the center. Drain and cool. Discard the bay leaf.
To make the herb-dill dressing: In a screw-top jar, mix the olive oil, red-wine vinegar, water, basil, dill, garlic, mustard, and onion. Shake well.
Place the shrimp in a large bowl and add the dressing. Toss well, cover, and refrigerate until well-chilled.
Serve the shrimp mixture on romaine lettuce leaves and surround with the tomato wedges and mushroom slices. Garnish with dill sprigs, if using.
Nutritional Information 382 calories14 g total fat (2 g sat)260 mg cholesterol16 g carbohydrate38 g protein4 g fiber310 mg sodium
Herbs are a must when it comes to cooking full-flavored, delicious meals — and fresh dill is no exception. It's often used for creating summery main-dish salads and seasoning seafood and lean meats. Here is a delicious recipe flavored with dill for your recipe box.
Shrimp Salad With Herb-Dill Dressing (Phase 1)
Serves 2
Ingredients Shrimp 1/2 cup dry white wine1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds1⁄8 teaspoon red-pepper flakes1 bay leaf1/2 lemon, sliced3/4 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Herb-Dill Dressing 1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil1 1/2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar1 tablespoon water1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill1/2 teaspoon finely chopped garlic1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard1/4 medium onion, sliced1/2 large head romaine lettuce2 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges3 fresh mushrooms, slicedFresh dill sprigs (optional)
Instructions To make the shrimp: Combine the wine, mustard seeds, pepper flakes, bay leaf, and lemon in a large saucepan. Add water to fill the pan two-thirds full. Bring to a boil over high heat. Add the shrimp, and cook for 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp have turned pink and are no longer translucent in the center. Drain and cool. Discard the bay leaf.
To make the herb-dill dressing: In a screw-top jar, mix the olive oil, red-wine vinegar, water, basil, dill, garlic, mustard, and onion. Shake well.
Place the shrimp in a large bowl and add the dressing. Toss well, cover, and refrigerate until well-chilled.
Serve the shrimp mixture on romaine lettuce leaves and surround with the tomato wedges and mushroom slices. Garnish with dill sprigs, if using.
Nutritional Information 382 calories14 g total fat (2 g sat)260 mg cholesterol16 g carbohydrate38 g protein4 g fiber310 mg sodium
Parks Update
COMMUNITY AND RECREATION CENTER SERVICES
Ø Constitution Day - Puerto Rico: The Marion Diehl Recreation Center is partnering with the Puerto Rican Cultural Society of Charlotte and the Latin American Coalition to celebrate "Constitution Day of Puerto Rico". The event will take place on Saturday, July 26, 2008 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Come and enjoy traditional songs, food, music and dances from Puerto Rico. Featured Artist: Orquesta Mayor, Pleneros - Remembranza, DJ "El Nene" and Artist Lillian White.
PARK OPERATIONS AND ATHLETIC SERVICES
Ø Blythe Landing Dock Improvements: On Monday night the Lake Norman Marine Commission voted to approve the permit application to replace the boat docks at Blythe Landing. The new docks will have slips on both sides. The next step in the permit process is for the application to go to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for approval. FERC is expected to review the plans and return the application in 45-90 days.
Ø National Softball Association (NSA) Tournament, July 21-23: The NSA World Series "B" tournament for Girls' Fastpitch Softball will be held Monday, July 21 through Wednesday, July 23 at Hornet's Nest and Nevin softball complexes. Athletic Services has worked very closely with Park District and Park Services staff in planning for a great event this year!
Ø Free Football Clinic: Park and Recreation and the Carolina Panthers have teamed up to offer a free one-day football clinic for boys and girls ages 7-14 on Wednesday, July 30, 2008 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Tuckaseegee Park. Derichard McCoy, recently promoted to the position of Recreation Coordinator/Supervisor over the county's youth football initiative, will be leading the county's involvement in this event.
Ø National Recreation and Park Association Conference Scholarships: Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation is honored to have three employees receive scholarships to attend the 2008 National Recreation and Park Association Congress and Exposition in Baltimore, MD. October 14-18. Park and Recreation Manager Andra Eaves was awarded a diversity scholarship, Athletic Coordinator Atuya Cornwell won the Southern Region young professional fellowship and Jason Tryon had the winning essay and was awarded the Department scholarship.
Ø Free Dog Parks: Effective July 1, all dog parks were opened up free of charge. On Thursday an interview was held with PS&I at Ray’s Fetching Meadow (McAlpine Park) that will be placed on the website. Greg Jackson and a park patron were interviewed. Among the 7 or 8 park patrons using the dog park all but one were previous pooch pass holders. All admitted they were opposed to the dog parks being free, however agreed that it is working just fine. Several even commented that they had made a couple new friends (both canine and human) from new dog park visitors.
CAPITAL PLANNING AND ALLIANCE DEVELOPMENT
Ø Friendship Sportsplex Community Meeting: The July 17 community meeting at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church (FMBC) was well attended great input and positive feedback was received. 35 community members were present with great comments and suggestions. This project is an exciting partnership between the FMBC and Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation. Wirth & Associates, Inc. is the consulting firm being contracted to design phase I. The principal for the project will be Gary Wirth.
Ø First Ward Park: Staff attended a First Ward Park planning meeting with city officials.
Ø Independence Boulevard Corridor Charette: Staff participated in the Independence Boulevard Corridor master planning charette with the City to provide input relative to parks, greenways and open space needs
Ø Mint Hill Town Board: A presentation on future park plans was made before the Mint Hill Town Board.
Ø Planning Charette: Staff participated in a planning charette with Charlotte Housing Authority (CHA), CPCC and CMS regarding CHA’s plans to redevelop Boulevard Homes as a Hope VI project.
GREENWAY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Ø Independence Boulevard Land Use Study: Planning staff met with the City's consultants to provide input into a plan to redevelop the area surrounding Independence Boulevard. The existing and future greenway and park amenities that staff identified within the study area will be incorporated into the land use plan.
Ø Elmwood Cemetery Pedestrian Connection: Staff met with CDOT representatives to discuss opportunities to increase pedestrian connectivity around Elmwood Cemetery. This effort could improve access to Ray's Splash Planet, existing Irwin Creek Greenway, and future Irwin Creek Greenway north of I-277.
Ø Little Sugar Creek Greenway - CSX Underpass: A flagman has finally been assigned to the construction site of the CSX underpass. The contractor will be coordinating schedules, and will be spending the next two weeks clearing and testing under the tracks. The contractor's design solution for the embankment stabilization has been submitted to DMJM Harris (CSX's engineering consultant) for review. Work on the soil nail wall and retaining wall cannot begin until these plans are approved by DMJM Harris, which should be in the next week or two.
Ø Little Sugar Creek Greenway - 10th to 7th Connector: Staff met with representatives from CDOT to discuss the 10th to 7th overland connector. CDOT through their consultant, HNTB, is conducting a feasibility study, structural and traffic analysis on the 7th Street Bridge over 277. The results of the study will determine the appropriate design options for the bridge. Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation’s consultant has also drawn a design solution to the McDowell Street, 10th Street and 11th Street intersections. Staff will take this to their next coordination meeting with CDOT to get conceptual approval and commitments from CDOT.
Ø Little Sugar Creek Greenway - 7th to Elizabeth: A ground breaking ceremony was held this week for the CPCC Culinary Arts Facility. CPCC president Tony Zeiss, donned in a chef's hat, directed the mixing of pancake batter and talked of the importance of this new state-of-the-art facility and its relationship to the greenway. Everyone had chef hats and confetti flew. A delicious breakfast was provided, of course. Construction has already begun on the site. Building construction will begin soon to be ready for Fall 2009 classes.
Ø Constitution Day - Puerto Rico: The Marion Diehl Recreation Center is partnering with the Puerto Rican Cultural Society of Charlotte and the Latin American Coalition to celebrate "Constitution Day of Puerto Rico". The event will take place on Saturday, July 26, 2008 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Come and enjoy traditional songs, food, music and dances from Puerto Rico. Featured Artist: Orquesta Mayor, Pleneros - Remembranza, DJ "El Nene" and Artist Lillian White.
PARK OPERATIONS AND ATHLETIC SERVICES
Ø Blythe Landing Dock Improvements: On Monday night the Lake Norman Marine Commission voted to approve the permit application to replace the boat docks at Blythe Landing. The new docks will have slips on both sides. The next step in the permit process is for the application to go to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for approval. FERC is expected to review the plans and return the application in 45-90 days.
Ø National Softball Association (NSA) Tournament, July 21-23: The NSA World Series "B" tournament for Girls' Fastpitch Softball will be held Monday, July 21 through Wednesday, July 23 at Hornet's Nest and Nevin softball complexes. Athletic Services has worked very closely with Park District and Park Services staff in planning for a great event this year!
Ø Free Football Clinic: Park and Recreation and the Carolina Panthers have teamed up to offer a free one-day football clinic for boys and girls ages 7-14 on Wednesday, July 30, 2008 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Tuckaseegee Park. Derichard McCoy, recently promoted to the position of Recreation Coordinator/Supervisor over the county's youth football initiative, will be leading the county's involvement in this event.
Ø National Recreation and Park Association Conference Scholarships: Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation is honored to have three employees receive scholarships to attend the 2008 National Recreation and Park Association Congress and Exposition in Baltimore, MD. October 14-18. Park and Recreation Manager Andra Eaves was awarded a diversity scholarship, Athletic Coordinator Atuya Cornwell won the Southern Region young professional fellowship and Jason Tryon had the winning essay and was awarded the Department scholarship.
Ø Free Dog Parks: Effective July 1, all dog parks were opened up free of charge. On Thursday an interview was held with PS&I at Ray’s Fetching Meadow (McAlpine Park) that will be placed on the website. Greg Jackson and a park patron were interviewed. Among the 7 or 8 park patrons using the dog park all but one were previous pooch pass holders. All admitted they were opposed to the dog parks being free, however agreed that it is working just fine. Several even commented that they had made a couple new friends (both canine and human) from new dog park visitors.
CAPITAL PLANNING AND ALLIANCE DEVELOPMENT
Ø Friendship Sportsplex Community Meeting: The July 17 community meeting at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church (FMBC) was well attended great input and positive feedback was received. 35 community members were present with great comments and suggestions. This project is an exciting partnership between the FMBC and Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation. Wirth & Associates, Inc. is the consulting firm being contracted to design phase I. The principal for the project will be Gary Wirth.
Ø First Ward Park: Staff attended a First Ward Park planning meeting with city officials.
Ø Independence Boulevard Corridor Charette: Staff participated in the Independence Boulevard Corridor master planning charette with the City to provide input relative to parks, greenways and open space needs
Ø Mint Hill Town Board: A presentation on future park plans was made before the Mint Hill Town Board.
Ø Planning Charette: Staff participated in a planning charette with Charlotte Housing Authority (CHA), CPCC and CMS regarding CHA’s plans to redevelop Boulevard Homes as a Hope VI project.
GREENWAY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Ø Independence Boulevard Land Use Study: Planning staff met with the City's consultants to provide input into a plan to redevelop the area surrounding Independence Boulevard. The existing and future greenway and park amenities that staff identified within the study area will be incorporated into the land use plan.
Ø Elmwood Cemetery Pedestrian Connection: Staff met with CDOT representatives to discuss opportunities to increase pedestrian connectivity around Elmwood Cemetery. This effort could improve access to Ray's Splash Planet, existing Irwin Creek Greenway, and future Irwin Creek Greenway north of I-277.
Ø Little Sugar Creek Greenway - CSX Underpass: A flagman has finally been assigned to the construction site of the CSX underpass. The contractor will be coordinating schedules, and will be spending the next two weeks clearing and testing under the tracks. The contractor's design solution for the embankment stabilization has been submitted to DMJM Harris (CSX's engineering consultant) for review. Work on the soil nail wall and retaining wall cannot begin until these plans are approved by DMJM Harris, which should be in the next week or two.
Ø Little Sugar Creek Greenway - 10th to 7th Connector: Staff met with representatives from CDOT to discuss the 10th to 7th overland connector. CDOT through their consultant, HNTB, is conducting a feasibility study, structural and traffic analysis on the 7th Street Bridge over 277. The results of the study will determine the appropriate design options for the bridge. Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation’s consultant has also drawn a design solution to the McDowell Street, 10th Street and 11th Street intersections. Staff will take this to their next coordination meeting with CDOT to get conceptual approval and commitments from CDOT.
Ø Little Sugar Creek Greenway - 7th to Elizabeth: A ground breaking ceremony was held this week for the CPCC Culinary Arts Facility. CPCC president Tony Zeiss, donned in a chef's hat, directed the mixing of pancake batter and talked of the importance of this new state-of-the-art facility and its relationship to the greenway. Everyone had chef hats and confetti flew. A delicious breakfast was provided, of course. Construction has already begun on the site. Building construction will begin soon to be ready for Fall 2009 classes.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Meck Parks Update
COMMUNITY AND RECREATION CENTER SERVICES
Ø NACo Awards: Park and Recreation won seven of Mecklenburg County's 12 NACo awards this year for innovative programs that can serve as models for other counties. Five of the awards came form the Community and Recreation Center Services Division. Our winners this year will be recognized at the Mecklenburg County Commission meeting on August 5. The five from CRCS are:
§ VIP Travel Club
VIP Travel Club provides opportunities for adults and seniors with visual impairments (VI) to travel throughout their community with a group of persons with similar challenges and interests. These monthly day trips were developed after many requests by members of existing programs offered by Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation’s Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Division and partnering agencies. The program is led by licensed Therapeutic Recreation Specialists, knowledgeable in the adaptations needed to assist people with visual impairments. (Kerri Good and Karen Howard, Therapeutic Recreation Section)
§ “With These Hands Mix” DJ Academy
“With These Hands Mix” DJ Academy” was a two week camp for teens, ages 13 to 17, which teaches how to be a disc jockey. Each student received hands-on training by industry professionals that allowed them to develop their talents and interests in music, mainly focusing on use of the turntable as an instrument. Instructors also provided lessons on how to conduct entertainment events, and they provided a step-by–step approach for managing such events as a profitable business. (Terri Stowers, Recreation Center Section)
§ TR Spirit Squad
TR Spirit Squad is a community cheerleading group for girls, ages 8 and older, with developmental disabilities. The squad also was formed as a result of Park and Recreation’s partnership with the Carolina Panthers NFL team. Park and Recreation and the Panthers sponsor a Challenger Football Program for young men with disabilities. The TR Spirit Squad gives young women the opportunity to develop confidence and self worth while participating in an activity they cherish and benefit from. (Monica Best, Therapeutic Recreation Section)
§ Battle Slam Jam
“Battle Slam Jam” was developed to bring different urban cultures together for a day of peace and an opportunity to show off their skills in wholesome competition. The program was developed by Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation and Donnel Stines, of CreateDontHate Productions. Its first year was 2006, with categories in skate boarding, DJ battle, and hip hop dance. In 2007 it grew with new entries in skating (best trick, and bowl skating), DJ battle, hip hop dance, tap off (tap dance), 3 on 3 basketball, and t-shirt design. This program continues as a celebration in which different groups come together, celebrate their diversity and enjoy each others’ talents. (Carla Hoover, Recreation Center Section)
§ Imagination Station
Imagination Station is a summer day camp for children, ages 2-6, with disabilities, first offered in 2007 for six weeks. In 2008 it will expand to eight weeks. Children participate in sports, exercise, art, music, dance, and games. They also attend field trips, all centered on the theme of a “Discovery Train” traveling to a different destination each week. Activities follow weekly themes, such as Animal World, Over the Rainbow, Four Seasons Way, and Helping Hands Boulevard. These help the children to learn and improve play skills, social interaction, coping, sharing, physical activity, and motor skills. (Angela Conti, Therapeutic Recreation Section)
Ø 4-H Trains Greater Enrichment Summer Staff: Mecklenburg County 4-H staff trained over 40 Greater Enrichment summer day camp staff on June 19. The four Greater Enrichment day camp sites will implement 4-H curriculum during their summer day camps, reaching over 400 youth. The training provided by the 4-H staff covered teambuilding games, health and fitness programming, arts and crafts programming, and agricultural education programming. Each week throughout the summer, the young people at these day camps will experience quality, hands-on 4-H activities that increase both knowledge and necessary life skills.
Ø Therapeutic Recreation's Lights, Camera, Action Summer Day Camp has been awarded a Cultural Project Grant through the Arts and Science Council. This summer day camp provides teens that have developmental disabilities an opportunity to experience a performing arts programs. The teens learn about set design, costume design, script writing, and all other aspects of producing and performing in a theatrical production. This grant will enable the expansion of the existing program and will provide support for set design and costume design workshops during the 8 week camp.
Ø Therapeutic Recreation/TR Summer Day Camp Orientation: Therapeutic Recreation hosted a week long orientation for TR Summer Day Camp staff. This is the preparation for 8 weeks of camps for pre-school, youth, teens and young adults who have disabilities. Camp staff learn about inclusion, working with people who have specific disabilities, planning for age appropriateness and most importantly how to help the participants have fun at camp. This year, TR is hosting 9 camps across the county. Camps begin Monday, June 23 and end Friday, August, 15.
Ø Skate & Music Festival at Grayson SkatePark: On Saturday June 21 Grayson SkatePark will play host to the third annual Charlotte Skate and Music Festival. Come join in the family fun with a day of music from live bands and a skateboard competition. Registration is at 8 a.m. with the event kicking off at 9 a.m. June 21 is also recognized as Go Skateboarding Day across the country.
Ø Summer Day Camp Program Kick-offs: Numerous summer day camp programs kicked off last week and more will be starting Monday at various recreation centers. The 2008 Mallard Creek Recreation Center’s Summer Camp has gotten off to a great start. Seventy-two children, ages 6 to 12, have participated in fitness activities, nutrition education, sport challenges, trips to the parks and bowling alley, art activities and nature exploration. Seven summer day camp programs are involved with a literacy initiative by incorporating fun literacy oriented projects and activities on a daily basis.
NATURE PRESERVES AND NATURAL RESOURCES
Ø International Speaker & Explorer Helen Thayer: On Sunday, June 29, McDowell Nature Preserve will host a program featuring the famous female explorer, Helen Thayer. Helen Thayer was the first woman to travel alone to the North Pole and the first woman to walk across both the Gobi and the Sahara Deserts. She is a best selling author, international speaker, and has appeared on Good Morning America, The Today Show, and in National Geographic. Helen will also be hosting a meet and greet immediately after the program. Her website is http://www.helenthayer.com/. Helen's visit and a pizza dinner are provided free, courtesy of CORDURA fabrics, however, pre-registration is required. Call (704) 588-5224. Program starts at 5 p.m.
Ø Survivor Copperhead Island: In cooperation with Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department’s Steele Creek Youth Network, staff will be conducting the 3rd Annual Survivor Copperhead Island Camp. Four weeks of camp begin on Monday. Forty at-risk youth campers will participate in a variety of outdoor events focused on leadership and team building skills. Since 2006 Park and Recreation staff have partnered with CMPD to provide a wilderness camp experience for youth through the Copperhead Island program. This year the program has been expanded to serve youth in North Charlotte. This program has received national recognition through the NACo Award program and is recognized as an innovative partnership to promote long-term solutions to youth violence prevention.
Ø LUESA Helps at McDowell Prairie: Over the years, Natural Resources have been working on one of the largest Piedmont Prairie restoration projects in the greater region. The McDowell prairie protects federally endangered species as well as provides critical habitat for rare grassland birds. Piles of woody debris have been stacked and stored on site for years, but with the help of Mr. Elliot, LUESA Yard Waste Manager, we will now compost these debris piles on site. Solid Waste delivered nine 18-wheeler loads and twenty dump truck loads of yard waste, covering the debris piles which will speed decomposition. This was a great partnership that benefits both departments. Thank you LUESA!
Ø Environmental Book Study: Reedy Creek Nature Center will host an environmental Book Study on June 21. This month’s book is Blessed Unrest by Paul Hawken. The program begins at 10 a.m. at Reedy Creek Nature Center.
ENTERPRISE SERVICES
Ø Track & Field: The USATF Youth Championship Local Organizing Committee held its final meeting at UNCC on June 18. More than two thousand (2,000) athletes from around the world have registered to participate in the event which starts June 24 and continues through June 29. More than 300 officials and volunteers will assist with the event at UNCC.
Ø Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center: Staff is hosting the Country Club Swim Championships on Sunday, June 22 after normal operations from 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Approximately two hundred fifty (250) local youth swimmers will compete in the special event.
Ø Grady Cole Center: Staff is hosting Pro-Am Basketball games from June 23-26, starting at 6:30 p.m. each day. Former and active professional players from the National Basketball Association and the Continental Basketball Association will be in action. Admission is free.
CAPITAL PLANNING AND ALLIANCE DEVELOPMENT
Ø Trust for Public Land Quarterly Meeting: Staff attended the Trust for Public Land Quarterly meeting to discuss the Parks for People Initiative and how the Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department can play a significant role in this endeavor.
Ø Friendship Sportsplex: A tentative schedule for the Community Workshop for the Friendship Sportsplex project has been set for either July 10 or 14. This date will be confirmed by early next week.
Ø Bradford Park: Staff attended a construction meeting at the Bradford Park site to assess the project's level of completion. The general contractor has hired a new project manager in an effort to resolve the remaining outstanding issues to complete the project.
Ø Berewick Project Schedule: Staff met with Peter Pappas and Marty Davis of Pappas Properties to discuss the Berewick Project schedule and a possible land swap opportunity to enable the Charlotte Housing Partnership to build apartments. It is felt that this would offer more rounded housing opportunities and complement the owned options.
Ø Planning Commission Meeting: Staff attended the Planning Commission meeting to discuss and respond to any questions regarding the proposed land donation for Pine Valley from the HOA to Park and Recreation to facilitate the construction of a playground for this threatened community.
Ø Accessible Playground: A meeting was held with Architect Troy Luttman to discuss his role in the permitting and construction document development for the accessible playground community build project.
Ø Bryant Park: The division received an update from Merrifield Partners on the long range plan for the educational, residential and commercial development initiatives near Bryant Park.
Ø Regional Sports Complex: A meeting was held with Woolpert Inc. and project stakeholders to discuss the current status and progress of the Mecklenburg County Regional Sports Complex (formerly Matthews Sportsplex).
PARK OPERATIONS AND ATHLETIC SERVICES
Ø Ray's Black History Quiz Bowl Soars to New Heights: For the past 3 years we have sponsored a Quiz Bowl for 8th grade students in honor and memory of Black History Month. The purpose of this quiz bowl is to provide a spirited competition between schools that would allow both the participants and the audience to gain more knowledge of Black History.
Last year 12 middle schools participated in the bowl. The elimination tournament was held during the week of February 11-15, 2008 at Mahlon Adams and on "Super" Saturday its finale was at the Imaginon Theater. At the conclusion of the Bowl, Northeast Middle School stood out in front. Unknown to the committee, Jacquelin Peters with 100 Black Men of Charlotte was in the audience. Ms Peters contacted Isaac Applewhite to get some additional information about our event. She and Jackie Hemingway worked together to ensure that the top three schools from our tournament participated in their local Black History Challenge Tournament. The winners of this tournament advanced to the National Black History Challenge in Orlando, Florida. Luck had it that the winners of our tournament (Northeast Middle) advanced to the national challenge and finished second.
History was made at the annual convention of the 100 Black Men of America, sponsors of the National Black History Challenge. No Charlotte team in prior years has reached the finals of this competition. Because of our quiz bowl we were able to grant this opportunity for students to do something they have never done. This type of leisure recreation is very important and needed for our children to stimulate personal growth.
If there is anyone that would like to be a part of our quiz bowl committee please feel free to contact Jackie Hemingway. Your help is welcome. Special thanks to our partner, the Public Library. This year's department committee members were: Regina Devers(Knox), Hellen Tolber, Jocelyn Anthony, Cheri Hamilton, Shakeita Maloye, Jackie Hemingway and Karla Thornhill. John McClelland, Travis Landrum, Aaron Cheeks and Isaac Applewhite helped initiate the event the first year.
Ø 11th Annual Juneteenth Festival: The Juneteenth Festival is alive with culture, food and fun. The festival is free and open to everyone. Friday, June 20 is a drumming circle. Bring your drum or borrow one when you come! On Saturday the festival highlights are music, drama, storytelling, a health fair, fashion show, African ballet and much more. On Sunday the festival concludes with a youth seminar, talent show, health fair, gospel explosion and Sunday service at 11 a.m. Come early for good parking. For additional information about the festival call the sponsor office at 704-376-6160. Event hours are: Friday 6 to 8:30 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Ø Hornet’s Nest Park: The Northwest Park District will be hosting a Crystal Carolina's Sports youth baseball tournament at Hornets Nest Park on Saturday and Sunday. Thirteen teams ages 10 - 13 are scheduled to play in the two day tournament.
Ø Lake Norman Tennis Association: The Lake Norman Tennis Association Southern Cities Qualifier tennis tournament will also be held at Hornet's Nest Park Saturday and Sunday. Approximately 70 women participants are expected to compete for an opportunity to advance to the tournament in Atlanta.
Ø Park Watch Operations-Youth Helmet Program: Park Watch and Carolinas Center for Injury Prevention at Carolinas Health Care kicked off it's Youth Helmet Program on June 17. The kick off campaign was covered by four media stations and featured youth on bicycles, Division Director Julie Clark and PWC Reggie Covington. Youth found wearing their helmets while riding bicycles will be given a voucher for any Charlotte Knights home game. Youth without helmets will receive a voucher for a new helmet at participating bike shops. It is a win-win scenario for youth bicycle safety.
Ø Athletic Services: Offered in partnership with Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation, Charlotte Health and Fitness Magazine directed the first of three summer 5K trail runs on the evening of Tuesday, June 17 at Reedy Creek Park. Over 100 runners participated. The next run in the series will be held on Tuesday, July 22 at Col. Beatty Park.
Ø Youth Baseball Tournaments: County-wide youth baseball tournament for center-based teams in the 8&U, 10&U, and 12&U age divisions is currently in progress. Games are held on weeknights and Saturdays at Revolution and Nevin.
GEENWAY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Ø Creek Coordination Meeting: Greenway planning staff attended the quarterly creek coordination committee (composed of CMU, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Stormwater, MCPR, and RES staff) hosted by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities. Topics on the agenda included an overview of the post construction ordinance, an update on the Park and Recreation Master Plan, a brief discussion on the CIP projects for the various departments, and an overview of the purpose and role of the Joint Use Task Force. Charlotte Mecklenburg Stormwater Services will host next quarter’s meeting.
Ø McAlpine Creek Greenway, Sardis Road to Providence Road: Staff met on site with residents along the proposed section of McAlpine Creek Greenway, Sardis Road to Providence Road. The greenway will be designed as part of a larger stream restoration project led by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services who will be restoring McAlpine Creek and many tributaries and ponds. This section will have a different character than the existing greenway with a focus on preserving as much of the woods as possible.
Ø Four Mile Creek Greenway: Staff met with property owners adjacent to the Radner Lane neighborhood entrance to the greenway last Friday. Staff discussed the typical greenway neighborhood entrance design and will continue to work with the property owners as construction wraps up on the greenway.
Ø NACo Awards: Park and Recreation won seven of Mecklenburg County's 12 NACo awards this year for innovative programs that can serve as models for other counties. Five of the awards came form the Community and Recreation Center Services Division. Our winners this year will be recognized at the Mecklenburg County Commission meeting on August 5. The five from CRCS are:
§ VIP Travel Club
VIP Travel Club provides opportunities for adults and seniors with visual impairments (VI) to travel throughout their community with a group of persons with similar challenges and interests. These monthly day trips were developed after many requests by members of existing programs offered by Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation’s Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Division and partnering agencies. The program is led by licensed Therapeutic Recreation Specialists, knowledgeable in the adaptations needed to assist people with visual impairments. (Kerri Good and Karen Howard, Therapeutic Recreation Section)
§ “With These Hands Mix” DJ Academy
“With These Hands Mix” DJ Academy” was a two week camp for teens, ages 13 to 17, which teaches how to be a disc jockey. Each student received hands-on training by industry professionals that allowed them to develop their talents and interests in music, mainly focusing on use of the turntable as an instrument. Instructors also provided lessons on how to conduct entertainment events, and they provided a step-by–step approach for managing such events as a profitable business. (Terri Stowers, Recreation Center Section)
§ TR Spirit Squad
TR Spirit Squad is a community cheerleading group for girls, ages 8 and older, with developmental disabilities. The squad also was formed as a result of Park and Recreation’s partnership with the Carolina Panthers NFL team. Park and Recreation and the Panthers sponsor a Challenger Football Program for young men with disabilities. The TR Spirit Squad gives young women the opportunity to develop confidence and self worth while participating in an activity they cherish and benefit from. (Monica Best, Therapeutic Recreation Section)
§ Battle Slam Jam
“Battle Slam Jam” was developed to bring different urban cultures together for a day of peace and an opportunity to show off their skills in wholesome competition. The program was developed by Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation and Donnel Stines, of CreateDontHate Productions. Its first year was 2006, with categories in skate boarding, DJ battle, and hip hop dance. In 2007 it grew with new entries in skating (best trick, and bowl skating), DJ battle, hip hop dance, tap off (tap dance), 3 on 3 basketball, and t-shirt design. This program continues as a celebration in which different groups come together, celebrate their diversity and enjoy each others’ talents. (Carla Hoover, Recreation Center Section)
§ Imagination Station
Imagination Station is a summer day camp for children, ages 2-6, with disabilities, first offered in 2007 for six weeks. In 2008 it will expand to eight weeks. Children participate in sports, exercise, art, music, dance, and games. They also attend field trips, all centered on the theme of a “Discovery Train” traveling to a different destination each week. Activities follow weekly themes, such as Animal World, Over the Rainbow, Four Seasons Way, and Helping Hands Boulevard. These help the children to learn and improve play skills, social interaction, coping, sharing, physical activity, and motor skills. (Angela Conti, Therapeutic Recreation Section)
Ø 4-H Trains Greater Enrichment Summer Staff: Mecklenburg County 4-H staff trained over 40 Greater Enrichment summer day camp staff on June 19. The four Greater Enrichment day camp sites will implement 4-H curriculum during their summer day camps, reaching over 400 youth. The training provided by the 4-H staff covered teambuilding games, health and fitness programming, arts and crafts programming, and agricultural education programming. Each week throughout the summer, the young people at these day camps will experience quality, hands-on 4-H activities that increase both knowledge and necessary life skills.
Ø Therapeutic Recreation's Lights, Camera, Action Summer Day Camp has been awarded a Cultural Project Grant through the Arts and Science Council. This summer day camp provides teens that have developmental disabilities an opportunity to experience a performing arts programs. The teens learn about set design, costume design, script writing, and all other aspects of producing and performing in a theatrical production. This grant will enable the expansion of the existing program and will provide support for set design and costume design workshops during the 8 week camp.
Ø Therapeutic Recreation/TR Summer Day Camp Orientation: Therapeutic Recreation hosted a week long orientation for TR Summer Day Camp staff. This is the preparation for 8 weeks of camps for pre-school, youth, teens and young adults who have disabilities. Camp staff learn about inclusion, working with people who have specific disabilities, planning for age appropriateness and most importantly how to help the participants have fun at camp. This year, TR is hosting 9 camps across the county. Camps begin Monday, June 23 and end Friday, August, 15.
Ø Skate & Music Festival at Grayson SkatePark: On Saturday June 21 Grayson SkatePark will play host to the third annual Charlotte Skate and Music Festival. Come join in the family fun with a day of music from live bands and a skateboard competition. Registration is at 8 a.m. with the event kicking off at 9 a.m. June 21 is also recognized as Go Skateboarding Day across the country.
Ø Summer Day Camp Program Kick-offs: Numerous summer day camp programs kicked off last week and more will be starting Monday at various recreation centers. The 2008 Mallard Creek Recreation Center’s Summer Camp has gotten off to a great start. Seventy-two children, ages 6 to 12, have participated in fitness activities, nutrition education, sport challenges, trips to the parks and bowling alley, art activities and nature exploration. Seven summer day camp programs are involved with a literacy initiative by incorporating fun literacy oriented projects and activities on a daily basis.
NATURE PRESERVES AND NATURAL RESOURCES
Ø International Speaker & Explorer Helen Thayer: On Sunday, June 29, McDowell Nature Preserve will host a program featuring the famous female explorer, Helen Thayer. Helen Thayer was the first woman to travel alone to the North Pole and the first woman to walk across both the Gobi and the Sahara Deserts. She is a best selling author, international speaker, and has appeared on Good Morning America, The Today Show, and in National Geographic. Helen will also be hosting a meet and greet immediately after the program. Her website is http://www.helenthayer.com/. Helen's visit and a pizza dinner are provided free, courtesy of CORDURA fabrics, however, pre-registration is required. Call (704) 588-5224. Program starts at 5 p.m.
Ø Survivor Copperhead Island: In cooperation with Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department’s Steele Creek Youth Network, staff will be conducting the 3rd Annual Survivor Copperhead Island Camp. Four weeks of camp begin on Monday. Forty at-risk youth campers will participate in a variety of outdoor events focused on leadership and team building skills. Since 2006 Park and Recreation staff have partnered with CMPD to provide a wilderness camp experience for youth through the Copperhead Island program. This year the program has been expanded to serve youth in North Charlotte. This program has received national recognition through the NACo Award program and is recognized as an innovative partnership to promote long-term solutions to youth violence prevention.
Ø LUESA Helps at McDowell Prairie: Over the years, Natural Resources have been working on one of the largest Piedmont Prairie restoration projects in the greater region. The McDowell prairie protects federally endangered species as well as provides critical habitat for rare grassland birds. Piles of woody debris have been stacked and stored on site for years, but with the help of Mr. Elliot, LUESA Yard Waste Manager, we will now compost these debris piles on site. Solid Waste delivered nine 18-wheeler loads and twenty dump truck loads of yard waste, covering the debris piles which will speed decomposition. This was a great partnership that benefits both departments. Thank you LUESA!
Ø Environmental Book Study: Reedy Creek Nature Center will host an environmental Book Study on June 21. This month’s book is Blessed Unrest by Paul Hawken. The program begins at 10 a.m. at Reedy Creek Nature Center.
ENTERPRISE SERVICES
Ø Track & Field: The USATF Youth Championship Local Organizing Committee held its final meeting at UNCC on June 18. More than two thousand (2,000) athletes from around the world have registered to participate in the event which starts June 24 and continues through June 29. More than 300 officials and volunteers will assist with the event at UNCC.
Ø Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center: Staff is hosting the Country Club Swim Championships on Sunday, June 22 after normal operations from 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Approximately two hundred fifty (250) local youth swimmers will compete in the special event.
Ø Grady Cole Center: Staff is hosting Pro-Am Basketball games from June 23-26, starting at 6:30 p.m. each day. Former and active professional players from the National Basketball Association and the Continental Basketball Association will be in action. Admission is free.
CAPITAL PLANNING AND ALLIANCE DEVELOPMENT
Ø Trust for Public Land Quarterly Meeting: Staff attended the Trust for Public Land Quarterly meeting to discuss the Parks for People Initiative and how the Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department can play a significant role in this endeavor.
Ø Friendship Sportsplex: A tentative schedule for the Community Workshop for the Friendship Sportsplex project has been set for either July 10 or 14. This date will be confirmed by early next week.
Ø Bradford Park: Staff attended a construction meeting at the Bradford Park site to assess the project's level of completion. The general contractor has hired a new project manager in an effort to resolve the remaining outstanding issues to complete the project.
Ø Berewick Project Schedule: Staff met with Peter Pappas and Marty Davis of Pappas Properties to discuss the Berewick Project schedule and a possible land swap opportunity to enable the Charlotte Housing Partnership to build apartments. It is felt that this would offer more rounded housing opportunities and complement the owned options.
Ø Planning Commission Meeting: Staff attended the Planning Commission meeting to discuss and respond to any questions regarding the proposed land donation for Pine Valley from the HOA to Park and Recreation to facilitate the construction of a playground for this threatened community.
Ø Accessible Playground: A meeting was held with Architect Troy Luttman to discuss his role in the permitting and construction document development for the accessible playground community build project.
Ø Bryant Park: The division received an update from Merrifield Partners on the long range plan for the educational, residential and commercial development initiatives near Bryant Park.
Ø Regional Sports Complex: A meeting was held with Woolpert Inc. and project stakeholders to discuss the current status and progress of the Mecklenburg County Regional Sports Complex (formerly Matthews Sportsplex).
PARK OPERATIONS AND ATHLETIC SERVICES
Ø Ray's Black History Quiz Bowl Soars to New Heights: For the past 3 years we have sponsored a Quiz Bowl for 8th grade students in honor and memory of Black History Month. The purpose of this quiz bowl is to provide a spirited competition between schools that would allow both the participants and the audience to gain more knowledge of Black History.
Last year 12 middle schools participated in the bowl. The elimination tournament was held during the week of February 11-15, 2008 at Mahlon Adams and on "Super" Saturday its finale was at the Imaginon Theater. At the conclusion of the Bowl, Northeast Middle School stood out in front. Unknown to the committee, Jacquelin Peters with 100 Black Men of Charlotte was in the audience. Ms Peters contacted Isaac Applewhite to get some additional information about our event. She and Jackie Hemingway worked together to ensure that the top three schools from our tournament participated in their local Black History Challenge Tournament. The winners of this tournament advanced to the National Black History Challenge in Orlando, Florida. Luck had it that the winners of our tournament (Northeast Middle) advanced to the national challenge and finished second.
History was made at the annual convention of the 100 Black Men of America, sponsors of the National Black History Challenge. No Charlotte team in prior years has reached the finals of this competition. Because of our quiz bowl we were able to grant this opportunity for students to do something they have never done. This type of leisure recreation is very important and needed for our children to stimulate personal growth.
If there is anyone that would like to be a part of our quiz bowl committee please feel free to contact Jackie Hemingway. Your help is welcome. Special thanks to our partner, the Public Library. This year's department committee members were: Regina Devers(Knox), Hellen Tolber, Jocelyn Anthony, Cheri Hamilton, Shakeita Maloye, Jackie Hemingway and Karla Thornhill. John McClelland, Travis Landrum, Aaron Cheeks and Isaac Applewhite helped initiate the event the first year.
Ø 11th Annual Juneteenth Festival: The Juneteenth Festival is alive with culture, food and fun. The festival is free and open to everyone. Friday, June 20 is a drumming circle. Bring your drum or borrow one when you come! On Saturday the festival highlights are music, drama, storytelling, a health fair, fashion show, African ballet and much more. On Sunday the festival concludes with a youth seminar, talent show, health fair, gospel explosion and Sunday service at 11 a.m. Come early for good parking. For additional information about the festival call the sponsor office at 704-376-6160. Event hours are: Friday 6 to 8:30 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Ø Hornet’s Nest Park: The Northwest Park District will be hosting a Crystal Carolina's Sports youth baseball tournament at Hornets Nest Park on Saturday and Sunday. Thirteen teams ages 10 - 13 are scheduled to play in the two day tournament.
Ø Lake Norman Tennis Association: The Lake Norman Tennis Association Southern Cities Qualifier tennis tournament will also be held at Hornet's Nest Park Saturday and Sunday. Approximately 70 women participants are expected to compete for an opportunity to advance to the tournament in Atlanta.
Ø Park Watch Operations-Youth Helmet Program: Park Watch and Carolinas Center for Injury Prevention at Carolinas Health Care kicked off it's Youth Helmet Program on June 17. The kick off campaign was covered by four media stations and featured youth on bicycles, Division Director Julie Clark and PWC Reggie Covington. Youth found wearing their helmets while riding bicycles will be given a voucher for any Charlotte Knights home game. Youth without helmets will receive a voucher for a new helmet at participating bike shops. It is a win-win scenario for youth bicycle safety.
Ø Athletic Services: Offered in partnership with Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation, Charlotte Health and Fitness Magazine directed the first of three summer 5K trail runs on the evening of Tuesday, June 17 at Reedy Creek Park. Over 100 runners participated. The next run in the series will be held on Tuesday, July 22 at Col. Beatty Park.
Ø Youth Baseball Tournaments: County-wide youth baseball tournament for center-based teams in the 8&U, 10&U, and 12&U age divisions is currently in progress. Games are held on weeknights and Saturdays at Revolution and Nevin.
GEENWAY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
Ø Creek Coordination Meeting: Greenway planning staff attended the quarterly creek coordination committee (composed of CMU, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Stormwater, MCPR, and RES staff) hosted by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities. Topics on the agenda included an overview of the post construction ordinance, an update on the Park and Recreation Master Plan, a brief discussion on the CIP projects for the various departments, and an overview of the purpose and role of the Joint Use Task Force. Charlotte Mecklenburg Stormwater Services will host next quarter’s meeting.
Ø McAlpine Creek Greenway, Sardis Road to Providence Road: Staff met on site with residents along the proposed section of McAlpine Creek Greenway, Sardis Road to Providence Road. The greenway will be designed as part of a larger stream restoration project led by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services who will be restoring McAlpine Creek and many tributaries and ponds. This section will have a different character than the existing greenway with a focus on preserving as much of the woods as possible.
Ø Four Mile Creek Greenway: Staff met with property owners adjacent to the Radner Lane neighborhood entrance to the greenway last Friday. Staff discussed the typical greenway neighborhood entrance design and will continue to work with the property owners as construction wraps up on the greenway.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Mortgage Matters - SunTrust Mortgage
FHA to use FICO scores for risk-based pricing on loan insurance
The FHA plans to shift to a 'risk-based' system tied to credit data to price its mortgage insurance.
By Kenneth R. HarneyWashington Post Writers GroupMay 18, 2008DALLAS -- Who has a better credit score on average -- a home buyer with higher or lower income?Inside the country's fastest-growing mortgage program, the surprise answer is: People with lower incomes have slightly higher FICO scores. That finding, which emerged from a statistical analysis of all approved mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration during fiscal 2007, is now buttressing a policy switch that could affect thousands of buyers and refinancers.The FHA, which for decades has used a one-size-fits-all approach to pricing its insurance on home loans, plans to shift to a "risk-based" system keyed to FICO scores and down payments, beginning as early as mid-July. Private-sector lenders and insurers have priced interest rates and premiums using sliding scales of FICO scores and down-payment amounts since the mid-1990s.The agency's move, which will cover new applications including "jumbo" loans up to $729,750 in high-cost markets through December, will bring the FHA in line with the private sector's main approach.Brian D. Montgomery, the FHA's top official, outlined the impending change in a speech here May 8 at the annual conference of the National Assn. of Real Estate Editors. Under the old approach, he noted, buyers with stellar FICO scores paid the same premiums as borrowers with poor scores. That amounted to a pricing inequity for applicants who presented a low risk of default on loans and an inappropriate subsidy of applicants who were likely to default.A study of an entire year's applications turned up the additional fact that the FHA's lower-income borrowers typically had higher FICO scores than those with larger incomes."Is it counterintuitive? Yes," Montgomery said. According to the study, applicants with FICO scores of 680 to 850 had a median income of $48,756 last year, while those with low scores of 500 to 559 had a median income of $53,388. Fair Isaac Corp.'s FICO scores range from about 300 to 850 -- the higher, the better -- and are predictive of future defaults and foreclosures. Even at rock-bottom down payments of 3%, applicants with lower incomes had higher credit scores than applicants with bigger incomes making similar-size down payments.All of which underlines the key reason for making the switch to risk-based pricing: Why should people who have demonstrated superior credit -- irrespective of their income levels -- pay the same mortgage insurance premiums as loan applicants who have seriously flawed credit histories?Under the new system, according to the FHA's outline of its plan, "a larger number of low-income borrowers [will] benefit from premium reductions than . . . moderate-, middle- and upper-income borrowers combined."On 30-year mortgages with down payments of 10% or more, applicants with FICO scores above 680 will qualify for the lowest premiums -- 1.25% of the loan amount upfront and annual renewal premium payments of 0.5%. Borrowers with down payments of less than 5% and poor credit scores -- FICOs ranging from 500 to 559 -- will be charged premiums of 2.25% up front and 0.55% annually. All borrowers will continue to receive the same market-based interest rate. Under the current system, borrowers pay uniform 1.5% premiums upfront and 0.5% annually.To set premium rates by credit standing, the FHA plans to use the middle score of an applicant's three FICOs generated by the national credit bureaus -- Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. If only two are available, it will use the lower. For applicants with thin or "nontraditional" credit histories on file at the bureaus, the FHA will underwrite and price the loans without reference to FICOs, with heavier emphasis on rent and utility payments among other measures of creditworthiness.Although FHA mortgage volume has more than doubled in the last year, the move to risk-based pricing is expected to make it more attractive to buyers and refinancers.During the housing boom years, the FHA lost much of its business to subprime lenders and insurers who offered zero-down, low- or no-documentation loans at high interest rates and fees, including prepayment penalties.The FHA, by contrast, always has required at least a 3% down payment and full documentation of income and assets but has never permitted prepayment penalties.Since taking over as FHA commissioner in 2005, Montgomery has emphasized "modernizing" the agency and winning back market share. That has included pushing for higher loan limits to serve greater numbers of borrowers in high-cost areas such as California and the East Coast.The FHA also is now the government's key vehicle for refinancing borrowers stuck with unaffordable -- and often toxic -- subprime mortgages.
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