Metro Parks Score State Awards

NASHVILLE, TN — Metro Parks won six statewide awards during the Tennessee Recreation and Parks Association’s 66th annual conference in Franklin, including the prestigious Four-Star Award.

The department's disABILITIES Division won the Four-Star Award for Athletic Programming for their accomplishments in athletic/sports events for those with disabilities. The department has offered a supervised recreation program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for more than 40 years and partners with local agencies including the Sports 4 All Foundation, Special Olympics Nashville, and Best Buddies Vanderbilt to offer special activities throughout the year. TRPA’s Four Star Awards recognizes the best overall programs, facilities and marketing strategies.

Metro Parks’ horticulturist Randall Lantz won the Wayne Hansard Award for his work in landscaping and maintenance. This award was developed by the Municipal/County Section of the TRPA to recognize personnel who have demonstrated excellence in the maintenance of parks, facilities, and/or grounds in a cost effective and efficient manner for safety.

The Dennis Rainier Award went to Dana Allen of the disABILITIES Division. This award was developed by the Athletics Branch of TRPA to recognize personnel who have demonstrated excellence in athletic planning and programming.

Belmont University won the Benefactor Award for their contributions to E. S. Rose Park Community Center and Sports Complex, while both Adrie Rhodes and the Sports 4 All Foundation won the Volunteer Service Award. Rhodes won the honor for her dedication and volunteer service at Watkins Park Community Center and the Sports Foundation was honored for their work with the Metro Parks’ disABILITIES Division.

Image via Metro Parks