09-24-01 vA regular meeting of the Parks and Recreation Board was held on September 24, 2001 at
the Adele Grage Community Center. DeJean Melancon called the meeting to order at
7:15 p.m. Present were: Ray Coleman, Phil Corp, Barbara Hopson, Tim Johnson, and
Tom Vogle. Visitor: Woody Winfree.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
DeJean asked for a motion to approve the minutes from the last regular meeting of
August 25, 2001. DeJean noted one correction. The minutes from August stated that
30,000 was approved by the Commission for the Project design cost for the proposed
Skateboard Park. DeJean asked for the minutes to indicate that the Commission may
approve the $30,000. The correction was noted. Barbara motioned to approve the
minutes, Phil seconded and the motion carried.
PRESENTATION BY VISITOR
Visitor, Woody Winfree was introduced to the Board by Timmy Johnson. Board
members received packets that explained Woody's purpose for attending the meeting.
Woody gave her presentation to the Board regarding Sole Sisters, Inc. Teen workshops
and dance performance will be available to the Atlantic Beach community in the summer
of 2002. Woody and her partner, Dana Carpenter developed Sole Sisters for the purpose
of dealing with self-esteem in young people, particularly young girls. All age groups as
well as young males and females will be welcome participants, explained Woody. Self-
esteem is such a vital issue and the summer workshops will teach self-discovery through
body movement and community participation. Professional talent will aide in the 3-4
day workshop program that will culminate in a community performance that will involve
a professional dance troupe. Woody explained that Sole Sisters is seeking funds from
Atlantic Beach to provide their program to the community. Woody indicated that free
admission to the public is a possibility. Board members were receptive to Woody's
presentation, and DeJean thanked her for sharing information about her program. The
Board agreed that the scope of this program would include older youth, a goal of the
Advisory Board. Tim Johnson advised the Board that the time is right to approach the
City Manager about possible funding for the Sole Sisters project. DeJean suggested that
a vote wasn't necessary, but the Board could be supportive.
OLD BUSINESS
Board members were given an update on the Budget. DeJean asked Tim Johnson if
priority items were approved. Everything was approved, including the request for
30,000 for the Skateboard Park design. The deadline for the Grant application has
passed. Tim advised the Board that the City would have another opportunity to apply for
a Grant in the spring. The City decided not to install restrooms at Bull Park.
Barbara Hopson is still concerned about the conflict between private property and Park
property lines. Tim Johnson indicated that a survey has been ordered for clarification.
Barbara asked about the safety gate at Bull Park, Tim advised the Board that a gate was
installed.
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DeJean requested a discussion regarding the purpose of a Recreation Advisory Board.
Several Board members indicated their willingness to continue serving and that they feel
the Board provides an important service to the community. Ray Coleman suggested that
it is healthy for government to seek citizen input. DeJean advised that a motion on the
issue wasn't necessary. He also asked the members to encourage applicants for service
on the Recreation Advisory Board.
NEW BUSINESS
DeJean advised members that the Board will need to hold elections for new officers.
Members were asked to give thoughtful consideration regarding service as officers.
Ray Coleman suggested that Reader Boards would benefit the community. Board
members all agreed that the boards provide information regarding community business.
DeJean suggested that Ray should call City Manager Jim Hanson about reader boards.
DeJean urged everyone to go vote in the upcoming Atlantic Beach election.
DeJean motioned to adjourn the meeting at 8:00 p.m. Tom Vogle seconded and the
motion carried.
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