"We owe a debt of gratitude to our volunteers," says Robert Reeve, director of Southern Pines Recreation and Parks Department for the Town of Southern Pines. "Volunteers turn good programs, special events, and athletic leagues into great programs, special events, and athletic leagues. Volunteers help beautify the town by planting approximately 3,000 Impatiens each spring, picking up litter along roadways throughout the year, and checking holiday decorations each winter."

The department paid tribute to all of its volunteers with an appreciation luncheon featuring a slide show of many of the volunteers in action, followed by an awards presentation, and social time.

Outstanding Volunteer Awards were given to individuals who have freely and enthusiastically given of their time and talent in service to the department and whose contributions have significantly enhanced the success of the program.

Special Citation Awards were presented to individuals or organizations who have rendered extra special service to help advance the recreation and parks field by sponsoring a program, developing a new program, contribution to beautification efforts, etc.

Meritorious Service Award recognized individuals or organizations who have unselfishly given long tenure of loyal service in the field of recreation and parks.

Charles Hughes and Liz Neligan were honored with Outstanding Volunteer awards for their dedication tothe Senior Division and its many programs.

"Mr. Hughes is the one man in a sea of women who regularly volunteers and participates," says Rynet Oxendine, of the Senior Division.

Neligan volunteers her time and talent and leads a successful games program for the division.

Also receiving the Outstanding Volunteer Award was high school student and Kinder Camp volunteer, Tiffany Wall, who was recognized for her creative spirit in leading preschoolers in activities for the past four summers.

Sue Gillis also extolled the praises of volunteer Melissa Watford, who was the driving force for establishing the Community Garden and her unceasing enthusiasm and energy in coordinating the First Garden and the many Master Gardeners who help lead the project that teaches our day campers and After School participants how to garden.

The Athletic Division honored coaches Jeff Batton and Darrin Kelly, who were described as "outstanding coaches and assets to youth sports" because of their positive attitudes, enthusiasm, and dedication.

The Buildings and Grounds Division awarded Greg Zywocinski and Carter (Bud) Wallen with the Outstanding Volunteer Award. Buildings and Grounds Superintendent Gregg Davis honored these individuals for their leadership role in the design of the seasonal sidewalk banners. They were and continue to be proponents of the litter problem, and they spearheaded replacement of downtown street lighting.

Two Special Citation Awards were presented. The Southern Pines Police Department was honored for its contributions to the Senior Division and Youth Program for its tireless efforts in leading informational, educational, and entertaining programs, classes and special events for the Recreation Department.

"It is a pleasure to work closely with our town's police department and to be able to count on them to help offer great ideas," says Sue Gillis.

"If you haven't visited Sandhurst Park, you are missing out on a great community park," says director Robert Reeve. Reeve went on to describe the support, commitment, and cooperation he received from the Sandhurst Homeowners Association when the park was being planned, designed, and built. The Sandhurst Homeowners Association went a step farther as it raised money to install equipment at the park and for these reasons the Association is a recipient of the Special Citation Award.

Mike Griffin was the recipient of the Meritorious Service Award for his many years of coach youth sports. Athletic Coordinator Jordan Phillips describes Griffin as "an inspirational coach whose energy and enthusiasm for youth sports knows no bounds."

Those who are interested in volunteering with Southern Pines Recreation & Parks Department should call the office at 692-2463.