Gwinnett Daily Post

LAWRENCEVILLE -- Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation fared well recently during the 66th annual Georgia Recreation and Park Association's state conference.

The Dacula Pageant Girls and Mountain View Pageant Girls received awards for volunteer services to the local parks and recreation department. They are service-based organizations that aim to instill leadership skills and service for girls of all ages.

The volunteer award in therapeutic recreation went to Jeff Jansma with the Gwinnett Masters Special Olympics. The GMSO is an organization that serves more than 300 young adults throughout the area.

The volunteer award for facilities and grounds was presented to veterans of the Gwinnett Veterans Council War Memorial Museum for contributions made to enrich the community.

The minority section award went to Helping Others Organize Kreative Everyday Differences, or HOOKED, a teen group sponsored by Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation in conjunction with Gwinnett United in Drug Education.

Teens in Leadership Training took home the award for innovative camp. The group provides skills and training necessary for young teens to become positive role models for campers as well as future counselors and camp directors.

The distinguished professional award in the athletic section went to Stacy Fowler, program supervisor with GCPR. Fowler was recognized for his contributions to adult athletics.

The senior section award was presented to GCPR for "May is Older Americans Month." The accolade recognized the department for the programs and activities provided to support Older Americans Month.

The state volunteer award went to Lois Allen, former chair of the Gwinnett County Recreation Authority, for her dedication and involvement in parks and recreation for more than 40 years.