[Source: Bill Thornton, Tucson, Arizona Heritage Alliance Board Member] — The theme of the 2008 Arizona Parks and Recreation Association Convention and Trade Show was “No Child Left Inside,” a new federal initiative to get children out from behind computer and TV screens and into outdoor activity. The need for action is compelling. The average child spends from six to nine hours each day watching TV and playing computer games with a corresponding reduction in outdoor activity. Due to budget constraints many school districts have reduced or eliminated physical education programs. The resulting lack of physical activity coupled with unhealthy diet is a major contributing factor in the epidemic of childhood obesity.
As a new board member of the Arizona Heritage Alliance the most valuable session for me was “Advocacy for Parks and Recreation.” Featured speaker, Richard J. Dolesh of the National Recreation and Park Association, sees the upcoming election as a historic opportunity to engage the new congress and administration with a pro park message. There will be a relatively short (i.e. six to twelve month) window of opportunity. During this time legislative priorities will be set. If parks don’t have a seat at the table the next four years could see further budget cuts and a very real possibility of park closings.
The park advocate’s task is to convince decision makers that parks serve a vital public need and are worthy of support. Emphasis should be on public health, quality of life, parks role in providing clean air and water, and parks as economic drivers. The message must be clear, focused, and compelling. Competition for decision maker’s attention is keen. If we have a dozen priorities we have no priorities. To accomplish our goals we need to reach out and form new alliances with health care professionals and other non traditional partners. The health benefits of outdoor activity are undeniable. Cardiologists are writing prescriptions for outdoor exercise. Now is the time to carry the message to decision makers.
The same lessons apply at the state level. New legislators need to get the message early. In addition to his message of advocacy Mr. Dolesh also pointed out that a 12.5% levy on offshore oil production could raise $100 million extra dollars per year for the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Increased offshore drilling is considered likely regardless of the outcome of the election. We need to be vigilant so the funds aren’t diverted for other uses. Sound familiar?
The day concluded with an awards banquet that showcased many fine examples of innovative parks and recreation programs around the state. I considered it a day well spent.