Thank you Sean and Patrick for creating a wonderful new learning community through an incredibly put together social networking site! It's especially important that there is a quick and easy way to connect with each other, learn from each other, and navigate the economic crisis we are all facing together.

As the recently installed CPRS President, the Board and I are committed to listen to you and will continue to work with Districts and Sections across California to ensure that quality education and networking opportunities are provided to professionals. CPRS is here to advance California's park and recreation profession. But, we need your help to ensure that CPRS remains relevant and vital for member success.

What are ways that CPRS can better serve you? Specifically, what do you need in terms of competencies to better manage what is happening in your department? I'm here to listen and to work with you.

Also, stay tuned on the full release of the CPRS Public Opinion Research Report. Jane Adams and the CPRS staff are working hard on finalizing this for members. But, I will quickly share with you some key findings:

1. 98% of respondents indicated that they had visited a public park in the past year and two-thirds reported visiting a public park in the past month or more often.

2. Nearly one half of the respondents indicated using a structured park program at least once in the past year.

3. The preservation of, and access to, outdoor spaces was of the highest priority.

4. Space for facilities and play (especially for children), exercise, and group sports (for both children and adults) are also among the highest priority for respondents.

5. California placed a high priority on activities and programs targeted to juveniles as a positive alternative to crime and mischief.

Again, these are just tid-bits and a full report for member use will be shared in the very near future.

Please comment, share your thoughts, call me at (650) 780-7253, use RecWave.com and/or e-mail me at cbeth@redwoodcity.org.

Thank you.

Chris Beth, CPRS President