NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 15, 1999

VOLUNTEERS TO BE RECOGNIZED AT ANNUAL CARY PARKS AWARDS BANQUET

CARY, NC – Officials once again expect hundreds to gather tomorrow night as the Town of Cary Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources honors its community volunteers and sponsors at its 3rd Annual Volunteer Recognition Banquet. The event will be held on Tuesday, February 16, from 7:00-9:00 PM in Cary’s Community Center. Catherine R. Stuart, member of the Board of Directors of the 1999 Special Olympics World Games, will be the guest speaker.

Over 450 invitations have been distributed for the banquet, which is designed to highlight the varied and important contributions of Cary’s citizens to the Town’s parks, recreation, and cultural arts programs.

"So much of what we offer to the community is dependent upon the hard work, support, and dedication of our volunteers "," said Judy Willard, PRCR Recreation Projects Coordinator. "Without them, many of our programs and special events simply would not be a reality."

Ms. Stuart, who will speak on "The Importance of Volunteers", is currently a Raleigh attorney in private practice as well as member of the bid committee for 2007 Pan American games and a member of the board of directors of NC Amateur Sports. Stuart is a former NC Senate staffer, former NC Assistant Attorney General, and former general counsel to the US Olympic Festival in 1987 held in the Triangle.

In addition to remarks by Ms. Stuart, Greenways Committee, Cultural Arts Committee, Athletic Committee, and PRCR Advisory Board members who have completed their terms of service will be recognized. Cary’s Mayor, Town Council members, and staff will be also on hand to present awards in several categories:

• (NEW THIS YEAR) Distinguished New Coach Award—presented to a person who has coached less than five years for the Town of Cary and who communicates effectively with players, parents, and staff; brings new ideas to the program; and promotes the Athletic Division philosophy;
• Don Smith Award--recognizing a volunteer in the Town’s athletics programs who demonstrates leadership as well as promotes skill development, sportsmanship, participation, and fun;
• Cultural Arts Award--presented to an individual who lends leadership and support to all aspects of the Town’s arts programs, including literacy, performance, and visual arts;
• Environmental & Trails Award--recognizes leadership and effectiveness in advocating environmental conservation as well as the improvement and development of the Town’s greenways, trails, and open spaces;
• Teen Award--given to a deserving member of Cary’s Teen Council who demonstrates leadership and a strong interest in community service;
• Senior Award--presented to one with a strong interest and participation in senior activities;
• Herb Young Award--given to a volunteer with overall outstanding service, leadership, and support for and of the staff and programs of Cary’s PRCR department.

Nominations for the awards were taken in late November from throughout Cary. Winners will receive a plaque as well as a crystal dish. The winner of the Herb Young Award will also have his or her name added to PRCR’s perpetual plaque at Town Hall.

Finally, the Athletic Division will again offer special recognition of local businesses and organizations that have sponsored youth sports for five to 10 years. As many as 14 groups will be singled-out this year. Each will receive a plaque for their work.

###

PRIMARY CONTACTS: Judy Willard, PRCR Recreation Coordinator, 469-4065

Bill Coleman, Town Manager, 469-4002

Susan Moran, Public Information Officer, 460-4951