First State Parks Caucus

STATE PARKS CAUCUS -- DECEMBER 6TH!!
Come to the caucus to learn more about our parks and to voice your comments, questions, and suggestions.

From a notice sent to the leglislature Dear Members of the Legislature, I would like to invite you to attend the first State Parks Caucus meeting next Wednesday, December 6th from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM in Hearing Room B-2. The purpose of the meeting will be to strategize and set an agenda for improving state park land throughout the Commonwealth for the next legislative session. I invited Kathy Abbott, former DCR commissioner, as a guest speaker. I would like you as legislators to share your input regarding personal experiences and your vision for the future of state parks. Refreshments will be served . If you plan to attend please RSVP to my office at x8914 or by responding to this email. More information will follow prior to the date of the meeting. Legislators only please. Thanks, Mike Michael F. Rush State Representative 10th Suffolk District Chairman, Legislative Parks Caucus -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BEFORE THE CAUCUS I invite you to take a look at the following TALKING POINTS from the Partners in Parks Conference:

1) Linking Parks and Recreation with the Public Health Agenda
How can parks and recreation programs play a wider role in health promotion through partnerships with public health agencies, healthcare providers, walking, jogging and biking constituencies, and others?

2) How Much Economic Value Does a Park and Recreation System Bring to a City?
What are the economic aspects of parks and recreation in a community? How can parks and open space stimulate economic development?

3) Making Room for Youth in our Parks
How can parks and recreation programs attract young people, nurturing leadership skills and a new generation of park stewards?

4) How to Talk the Talk: Communicating to be Heard
In many communities the value of urban parks and recreation is under-appreciated and misunderstood. How can park and recreation supporters deliver a persuasive and powerful message to make an impact at budget time?

5) Parks as Safe Havens
Real or perceived threats to public safety can keep people away from parks. What are the critical issues, and how can park and open space supporters develop partnerships to address public security issues and restore parks as welcoming, safe centers of community?

6) Parks and Corporate Citizens: Stories of Successful Partnerships
The corporate relationship is one of the most important resources that parks can develop. How can the corporate sector aid park restoration and maintenance through participation on boards, hands-on projects, and sponsorships?

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR THOUGHTS ON THESE TOPICS????