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published on 06/10/2010 The Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Department receives national recognition! By Mike Dunne External Communications Manager, Hamilton County The National Association of Counties acknowledged the department’s 2009 “Buried and Hidden Treasures Program” with a 2010 NACo Achievement Award. The summer program celebrates Chester Frost Park’s many natural resources through a historical timeline and hands on learning activities for school age children six years and older, plus their parents. The program was developed over a two month period by Recreation Specialist Maureen Davis and Superintendent Tom Lamb. Their objective was to allow participants to see Chester Frost Park and surrounding areas as not only a fun place to picnic, hike and swim but also a classroom full of nature, wildlife and history. The program also teaches participants respect for properties and cultures explaining why it is necessary to obtain permission before hunting or digging on other people’s property. The “Buried Treasures Program” included discussion of fossil sites and how to unearth fossils using tools similar to what real life paleontologists use. Plus the site’s history was explored, touching on the activities of Native Americans in times gone by as well as the impact of the civil war campaigns that crossed the region. The “Hidden Treasures Program” unearthed the signs left by wildlife that permeate the park but are not instantly recognizable to the untrained eye as well as a discussion of the wildlife that inhabit Chester Frost Park and their circle of life. Hamilton County Mayor Claude Ramsey says the honor spotlights the diversity of Hamilton County Parks. “I believe we live in the most beautiful part of the country, I encourage everyone to take full advantage of the beautiful parks we have throughout our community. Awards like this showcase to the rest of the nation what we have known and enjoyed for decades here in Hamilton County.” Parks and Recreation Director Ron Priddy adds, “Programs developed by employees like Maureen and Tom look outside the box, finding new ways to share with our citizens the incredible complexity of our ecological system. I am so proud that NACo has honored their initiative. “ Treasure Hunters 2010-Life in a Pond, will take place Friday July 2nd, enrollment is still open, for more information about registration please call 842-6748.

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