2010 CSA Winners

Leon Searles Clinton County	Leon Searles, owner of Searles Construction, offered 42 acres of land to the county for park and recreation purposes. After the purchase of the land, he assisted the county with development of the site. Because of his generosity and efforts, the county was able to open the property for public use soon after acqusition. Without Leon Searles, the Parks and Green Space Commission would remain an agency in name only.
Huron Valley Board of Education Huron Valley Schools	Through the support of the Huron Valley Board of Education, the district constructed a field house, two pools and a fitness center. These facilities provide enhanced opportunities for recreation in our community. They also converted an elementary school into a multi-use facility that houses several programs. This move not only resulted in a cost savings for the district, but also provided a stronger preschool program, a new revenue source, and additional services for at-risk families in the community.
Family Eye Care Associates Clinton Township	Family Eye Care Associates is a truly community-minded business that makes Clinton Township a better place to live. They sponsor a number of events including the Festival of the Senses Art Fair, Trick or Treat Trail, Easter Egg Hunt, and others. They are active in our Kiwanis Club and Boy Scouts. They are a joy to work with and make Clinton Township a better place for families.
Pam Fleming Van Buren Charter Township	As lead coordinator for the township's Goodfellows program, Pam Fleming has worked diligently to make sure that no family goes without a Thanksgiving or Christmas. She has never turned a family away, and people around Van Buren Township have officially designated her "Mrs. Santa Claus."
Plymouth Lions Club Plymouth Recreation Department	The Plymouth Lions Club has been a pillar of the community since 1948. Their commitment and service has been unquestioned and they have continuously answered the call of those in need. Recently, they sponsored a scholarship to help youth continue their recreation and athletic puruits.
Alger Parks and Recreation Partners Alger Parks and Recreation Department	Five municipalities stepped up to form a partnership so no one community had to bear the burden. Au Train Township, Grand Island Township, Munising Township, City of Munising, and Munising Public Schools continue to support Alger Parks and Recreation Department and more importantly, their residents. APRD offers programs for all ages and income levels thanks to these partners.
Troy 50+ Computer Learning Center Troy Parks and Recreation	When the SeniorNet computer lab in Troy was in danger of closing due to budget constraints, the Troy Parks and Recreation Steering Committee took on the challenge. They developed lesson plans, took over technical support, and formed partnerships with other organizations. The learning center has over three dozen volunteers, and is a wonderful asset to the community.
McDonald's of Sterling Heights Sterling Heights Parks and Recreation	McDonald's of Sterling Heights has been an integral part of the city's program offerings for the past four years. They have offered sponsorships, in-kind donations, and new program development. Thanks to McDonald's of Sterling Heights, the department has been able to offer enhanced services to the city's residents.
Rob Redman City of Kalamazoo	Rob Redman has been a steadfast supporter of Kalamazoo's youth coed intramural leagues since 2005. Rob provides countless hours of activities and is a positive role model for youth. Thanks to Rob and Redman Insurance's donations, the city has been able purchase equipment and keep registration fees minimal.
Ingham County MSU Extension 4-H Lansing Parks and Recreation	Lansing Parks and Recreation is better because of Ingham County MSU Extension 4-H. They have brought new programs to the deparment and improved existing ones. They are truly a valuable asset to the City of Lansing.
Lahn Hall and Schand PLLC Saline Parks and Recreation	Lahn, Hall, and Schand PLLC has been a great supporter of Saline Parks and Recreation for over five years. Geoff Lahn and his office assist our Saline Halloween Hullaballoo by sponsoring dinner for the event, lending a helpful hand, and providing prizes. The success throughout the years of the Halloween Hullabaloo can be directly attributed to the generosity of Lahn, Hall, and Schand PLLC.
Lloyd A. Stage Nature Center Volunteers City of Troy	The Lloyd A. Stage Nature Center volunteers consist of over 100 remarkable, service-oriented indiciduals. their support of public recreation and park programs is evident through more than 2,600 hours of service in 2009. They are always eager to help with a variety of tasks and truly contribute to the success of the Lloyd A. Stage Nature Center.
Jim & Jean Klein Portland Parks and Recreation	Jim and Jean Klein, owners of S&K Trophies and Plaques, are an invaluable asset to the Portland community. They provide top quality products at a reasonable price and are always willing to lend a helping hand, whether it be with last-minute orders, trophy delivery, or fence installation. They provide excellent service and commitment to the Portland Parks and Recreation Department and the entire community.
Telecom Credit Union Berkley Parks and Recreation	Telecom Credit Union understands what the word "community" means and they show it by getting involved as active participants. The partnership with Telecom has allowed the department to make improvements to parks, purchase equipment, and offer scholarships to children in need. Telecom makes a difference in the community.
Lincoln High School Honor Society Ypsilanti Township	Under the direction of John Porter, the Lincoln High School Honor Society supports special events by providing volunteers. The volunteers are professional and personable. By utilizing the assistance of the society, the department has saved hundreds of dollars on each event.
Environmental Science and Services Oakland County Parks	An energy audit conducted through the Retired Engineer Technical Assistance Program helped Oakland County Parks go "green" and save green. In response to the audit, staff instigated light-saving strategies through the use of motion-sensitive and energy-efficient lighting. Due to the success of the RETAP audit, Oakland County Parks plans to complete energy audits in each park facility.
Maria Delgado Pontiac	Maria Delgado is a remarkable person who contributes to the leisure needs of the Pontiac community. She is always willing to lend a helping hand in any capacity. She has enriched so many programs through her commitment to Pontiac.
Faye Alexander Nelson Michigan DNR	The Detroit RiverFront Conservancy has been instrumental in the creation of the Detroit Riverwalk. It supports riverfront development and facilitates community access to the waterfront. The DRFC has been a leader in developing a collective sense of ownership to enhance Detroit's image.
John McKinney Michigan DNR	The Fox Island Lighthouse Association (FILA) has proven to be a boon to weary boaters traveling on Lake Michigan. FILA was created to save the South Fox Island Lighthouse, which they have done so through fundraisers and donations. Without FILA to volunteer time, funding, and a boat, the PRD could not adequately take care of this historical complex.
Marisa Reeves Michigan DNR	In 2009, Macy's continued their "Turn a New Leaf" campaign, a fundraising initiative to generate financial support and awareness for the National Park Foundation and Michigan state parks and recreation areas. The program was simple - shoppers purchased a "leaf" good for discounts, and the proceeds from the leaf sales were donated to national and state parks. Macy's generous donation helped fund the DNR's Urban Outreach initiatives and the "Park and Read" program.
Jerry Sarasin Oakland County Parks	Not only has Jerry Sarasin of Troy made significant contributions to the disabled community, but he has also had a great impact on the Adaptive Recreation Program at Oakland County Parks and Recreation. He has helped the parks adaptive recreation program grow, and coordinates the Adult Recreation Wheelchair Basketball program. Jerry inspires many adults and children through his selfless actions for the disabled community.
Janelle Rydberg Michigan DNR	Gander Mountain generously sponsored the "First Time Campers" pilot program, which provided a two-day, hands-on, interactive experience for people who had never camped. Through donations and discounts, Gander Mountain enabled almost 200 families to experience camping for the first time.
Leslie Kuhn Ingham County Parks	Leslie Kuhn spearheaded an effort to acquire 120 acres of forest and wetlands adjacent to Ingham County's Lake Lansing Park and was instrumental in forming the Preserve Lake Lansing Trails Committee. She organized a fundraiser that raised in excess of $150,000 for the parks. Leslie Kuhn has provided valuable leadership in building a successful group that educates citizens in the management of our lands and waters.
East Lansing Basketball Club East Lansing Parks and Recreation	The East Lansing Basketball Club was formed in 2003 as a community based youth sports organization. Through the dedication of a volunteer board, coaches, sponsors, and others, the club has benefitted East Lansing youth and created community. The club is also invested in other community activities, and has made over $62,000 in cash contributions to other community programs in the last six years.
Kathy Trumbo/Rick Burrough Grand Blanc Parks and Recreation	The Grand Blanc View has been a tremendous partner to the Grand Blanc Parks and Recreation Commission, distributing the monthly senior center newsletter to over 26,000 households. In addition, the View runs advertisements and cover stories to promote the Commission's upcoming events. The Grand Blanc Parks and Recreation Commission is grateful to have such a supportive community partner.
Victoria Palace West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation	Victoria conducts a free drop-in fitness program twice a week for seniors in West Bloomfield Township. In the past ten years, she has grown the program from 16 regulars to over 3,500! West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation Commission would like to thank Victoria Palace for her dedicatino to the seniors of our township.
Claudette Pilon West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation	Claudette has volunteered with West Bloomfield since 2000. She never says no to helping. She lends a hand with the West Bloomfield Half Marathon, wears the mantle of Mrs. Easter Bunny, and serves at our HalloweenFest. Our events are an extra special place to be thanks to Claudette's enthusiasm and willingness to help.
Pittsfield Township Historical Society Pittsfield Charter Township	Ten years ago, the Pittsfield Township Historical Society took on the restoration of the 1850's Sutherland-Wilson Farm. They renovated the barn, repaired buildings, planted crops, and created a farm museum. In 2009, the society co-sponsored the first annual Fall Harvest Festival, celebrating 175 years of Pittsfield Township.
Terri Mayfield Southfield Parks and Recreation	Terri volunteers with the Southfield Special Forces, the city's special needs program. In the last decade, she has expanded the programs to include classes in dance, exercise, money management, and much more. She is also very active with the Special Olympics. Terri makes Southfield a better place to live.
Ben Wettenstein Oak Park Recreation	Oak Park's Senior 50 Up Program is enriched by Ben Wettenstein's dedication to service. He has been a key volunteer and a great leader, making BINGO one of the most popular parts of the program. Oak Park could not have provided diversified programming without Ben's dedication and commitment.
Power Company Kids Club City of Pontiac	The Power Company Kids Club provides transportation, sports, and enrichment programs for disadvantaged youth in Pontiac. Mentoring is a major focus of this program, and many youngsters come back to serve as bus monitors and counselors. The members of this club are truly fortunate.
Northville Chamber of Commerce Northville Parks and Recreation	The Northville Chamber of Commerce included Parks and Recreation events in their special sponsorship programs in 2008. Sponsorship fees are shared between the Chamber and the Department, which reached over $8,900 in the first year. Partnering with the Chamber has brought exposure to Northville businesses and needed revenue for the Parks and Recreation Department.
Wolverine Sports and Conservation Club Livonia Parks and Recreation	The Wolverine Sports and Conservation Club members provide financial assistance and countless volunteer hours to ensure that Livonia's youth experience the quality of life upon which Livonia prides itself. The members' determination and love for the community is evident when you see the smiles, camaraderie, enthusiasm, and family spirit that are displayed at each special event.
Cooley Law School Lansing Parks and Recreation	Cooley Law School has generously sponsored Lansing's Summer Playground Program for five summers. Each year, students and staff raise funds to send 500 campers to a Lansing Lugnuts game. Throughout the years, this event has grown to include a parade on the field and kids throwing the first pitch. Cooley Law School has been a great partner to Lansing Parks and Recreation.

Leon Searles Clinton County	Leon Searles, owner of Searles Construction, offered 42 acres of land to the county for park and recreation purposes. After the purchase of the land, he assisted the county with development of the site. Because of his generosity and efforts, the county was able to open the property for public use soon after acqusition. Without Leon Searles, the Parks and Green Space Commission would remain an agency in name only.
Huron Valley Board of Education Huron Valley Schools	Through the support of the Huron Valley Board of Education, the district constructed a field house, two pools and a fitness center. These facilities provide enhanced opportunities for recreation in our community. They also converted an elementary school into a multi-use facility that houses several programs. This move not only resulted in a cost savings for the district, but also provided a stronger preschool program, a new revenue source, and additional services for at-risk families in the community.
Family Eye Care Associates Clinton Township	Family Eye Care Associates is a truly community-minded business that makes Clinton Township a better place to live. They sponsor a number of events including the Festival of the Senses Art Fair, Trick or Treat Trail, Easter Egg Hunt, and others. They are active in our Kiwanis Club and Boy Scouts. They are a joy to work with and make Clinton Township a better place for families.
Pam Fleming Van Buren Charter Township	As lead coordinator for the township's Goodfellows program, Pam Fleming has worked diligently to make sure that no family goes without a Thanksgiving or Christmas. She has never turned a family away, and people around Van Buren Township have officially designated her "Mrs. Santa Claus."
Plymouth Lions Club Plymouth Recreation Department	The Plymouth Lions Club has been a pillar of the community since 1948. Their commitment and service has been unquestioned and they have continuously answered the call of those in need. Recently, they sponsored a scholarship to help youth continue their recreation and athletic puruits.
Alger Parks and Recreation Partners Alger Parks and Recreation Department	Five municipalities stepped up to form a partnership so no one community had to bear the burden. Au Train Township, Grand Island Township, Munising Township, City of Munising, and Munising Public Schools continue to support Alger Parks and Recreation Department and more importantly, their residents. APRD offers programs for all ages and income levels thanks to these partners.
Troy 50+ Computer Learning Center Troy Parks and Recreation	When the SeniorNet computer lab in Troy was in danger of closing due to budget constraints, the Troy Parks and Recreation Steering Committee took on the challenge. They developed lesson plans, took over technical support, and formed partnerships with other organizations. The learning center has over three dozen volunteers, and is a wonderful asset to the community.
McDonald's of Sterling Heights Sterling Heights Parks and Recreation	McDonald's of Sterling Heights has been an integral part of the city's program offerings for the past four years. They have offered sponsorships, in-kind donations, and new program development. Thanks to McDonald's of Sterling Heights, the department has been able to offer enhanced services to the city's residents.
Rob Redman City of Kalamazoo	Rob Redman has been a steadfast supporter of Kalamazoo's youth coed intramural leagues since 2005. Rob provides countless hours of activities and is a positive role model for youth. Thanks to Rob and Redman Insurance's donations, the city has been able purchase equipment and keep registration fees minimal.
Ingham County MSU Extension 4-H Lansing Parks and Recreation	Lansing Parks and Recreation is better because of Ingham County MSU Extension 4-H. They have brought new programs to the deparment and improved existing ones. They are truly a valuable asset to the City of Lansing.
Lahn Hall and Schand PLLC Saline Parks and Recreation	Lahn, Hall, and Schand PLLC has been a great supporter of Saline Parks and Recreation for over five years. Geoff Lahn and his office assist our Saline Halloween Hullaballoo by sponsoring dinner for the event, lending a helpful hand, and providing prizes. The success throughout the years of the Halloween Hullabaloo can be directly attributed to the generosity of Lahn, Hall, and Schand PLLC.
Lloyd A. Stage Nature Center Volunteers City of Troy	The Lloyd A. Stage Nature Center volunteers consist of over 100 remarkable, service-oriented indiciduals. their support of public recreation and park programs is evident through more than 2,600 hours of service in 2009. They are always eager to help with a variety of tasks and truly contribute to the success of the Lloyd A. Stage Nature Center.
Jim & Jean Klein Portland Parks and Recreation	Jim and Jean Klein, owners of S&K Trophies and Plaques, are an invaluable asset to the Portland community. They provide top quality products at a reasonable price and are always willing to lend a helping hand, whether it be with last-minute orders, trophy delivery, or fence installation. They provide excellent service and commitment to the Portland Parks and Recreation Department and the entire community.
Telecom Credit Union Berkley Parks and Recreation	Telecom Credit Union understands what the word "community" means and they show it by getting involved as active participants. The partnership with Telecom has allowed the department to make improvements to parks, purchase equipment, and offer scholarships to children in need. Telecom makes a difference in the community.
Lincoln High School Honor Society Ypsilanti Township	Under the direction of John Porter, the Lincoln High School Honor Society supports special events by providing volunteers. The volunteers are professional and personable. By utilizing the assistance of the society, the department has saved hundreds of dollars on each event.
Environmental Science and Services Oakland County Parks	An energy audit conducted through the Retired Engineer Technical Assistance Program helped Oakland County Parks go "green" and save green. In response to the audit, staff instigated light-saving strategies through the use of motion-sensitive and energy-efficient lighting. Due to the success of the RETAP audit, Oakland County Parks plans to complete energy audits in each park facility.
Maria Delgado Pontiac	Maria Delgado is a remarkable person who contributes to the leisure needs of the Pontiac community. She is always willing to lend a helping hand in any capacity. She has enriched so many programs through her commitment to Pontiac.
Faye Alexander Nelson Michigan DNR	The Detroit RiverFront Conservancy has been instrumental in the creation of the Detroit Riverwalk. It supports riverfront development and facilitates community access to the waterfront. The DRFC has been a leader in developing a collective sense of ownership to enhance Detroit's image.
John McKinney Michigan DNR	The Fox Island Lighthouse Association (FILA) has proven to be a boon to weary boaters traveling on Lake Michigan. FILA was created to save the South Fox Island Lighthouse, which they have done so through fundraisers and donations. Without FILA to volunteer time, funding, and a boat, the PRD could not adequately take care of this historical complex.
Marisa Reeves Michigan DNR	In 2009, Macy's continued their "Turn a New Leaf" campaign, a fundraising initiative to generate financial support and awareness for the National Park Foundation and Michigan state parks and recreation areas. The program was simple - shoppers purchased a "leaf" good for discounts, and the proceeds from the leaf sales were donated to national and state parks. Macy's generous donation helped fund the DNR's Urban Outreach initiatives and the "Park and Read" program.
Jerry Sarasin Oakland County Parks	Not only has Jerry Sarasin of Troy made significant contributions to the disabled community, but he has also had a great impact on the Adaptive Recreation Program at Oakland County Parks and Recreation. He has helped the parks adaptive recreation program grow, and coordinates the Adult Recreation Wheelchair Basketball program. Jerry inspires many adults and children through his selfless actions for the disabled community.
Janelle Rydberg Michigan DNR	Gander Mountain generously sponsored the "First Time Campers" pilot program, which provided a two-day, hands-on, interactive experience for people who had never camped. Through donations and discounts, Gander Mountain enabled almost 200 families to experience camping for the first time.
Leslie Kuhn Ingham County Parks	Leslie Kuhn spearheaded an effort to acquire 120 acres of forest and wetlands adjacent to Ingham County's Lake Lansing Park and was instrumental in forming the Preserve Lake Lansing Trails Committee. She organized a fundraiser that raised in excess of $150,000 for the parks. Leslie Kuhn has provided valuable leadership in building a successful group that educates citizens in the management of our lands and waters.
East Lansing Basketball Club East Lansing Parks and Recreation	The East Lansing Basketball Club was formed in 2003 as a community based youth sports organization. Through the dedication of a volunteer board, coaches, sponsors, and others, the club has benefitted East Lansing youth and created community. The club is also invested in other community activities, and has made over $62,000 in cash contributions to other community programs in the last six years.
Kathy Trumbo/Rick Burrough Grand Blanc Parks and Recreation	The Grand Blanc View has been a tremendous partner to the Grand Blanc Parks and Recreation Commission, distributing the monthly senior center newsletter to over 26,000 households. In addition, the View runs advertisements and cover stories to promote the Commission's upcoming events. The Grand Blanc Parks and Recreation Commission is grateful to have such a supportive community partner.
Victoria Palace West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation	Victoria conducts a free drop-in fitness program twice a week for seniors in West Bloomfield Township. In the past ten years, she has grown the program from 16 regulars to over 3,500! West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation Commission would like to thank Victoria Palace for her dedicatino to the seniors of our township.
Claudette Pilon West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation	Claudette has volunteered with West Bloomfield since 2000. She never says no to helping. She lends a hand with the West Bloomfield Half Marathon, wears the mantle of Mrs. Easter Bunny, and serves at our HalloweenFest. Our events are an extra special place to be thanks to Claudette's enthusiasm and willingness to help.
Pittsfield Township Historical Society Pittsfield Charter Township	Ten years ago, the Pittsfield Township Historical Society took on the restoration of the 1850's Sutherland-Wilson Farm. They renovated the barn, repaired buildings, planted crops, and created a farm museum. In 2009, the society co-sponsored the first annual Fall Harvest Festival, celebrating 175 years of Pittsfield Township.
Terri Mayfield Southfield Parks and Recreation	Terri volunteers with the Southfield Special Forces, the city's special needs program. In the last decade, she has expanded the programs to include classes in dance, exercise, money management, and much more. She is also very active with the Special Olympics. Terri makes Southfield a better place to live.
Ben Wettenstein Oak Park Recreation	Oak Park's Senior 50 Up Program is enriched by Ben Wettenstein's dedication to service. He has been a key volunteer and a great leader, making BINGO one of the most popular parts of the program. Oak Park could not have provided diversified programming without Ben's dedication and commitment.
Power Company Kids Club City of Pontiac	The Power Company Kids Club provides transportation, sports, and enrichment programs for disadvantaged youth in Pontiac. Mentoring is a major focus of this program, and many youngsters come back to serve as bus monitors and counselors. The members of this club are truly fortunate.
Northville Chamber of Commerce Northville Parks and Recreation	The Northville Chamber of Commerce included Parks and Recreation events in their special sponsorship programs in 2008. Sponsorship fees are shared between the Chamber and the Department, which reached over $8,900 in the first year. Partnering with the Chamber has brought exposure to Northville businesses and needed revenue for the Parks and Recreation Department.
Wolverine Sports and Conservation Club Livonia Parks and Recreation	The Wolverine Sports and Conservation Club members provide financial assistance and countless volunteer hours to ensure that Livonia's youth experience the quality of life upon which Livonia prides itself. The members' determination and love for the community is evident when you see the smiles, camaraderie, enthusiasm, and family spirit that are displayed at each special event.
Cooley Law School Lansing Parks and Recreation	Cooley Law School has generously sponsored Lansing's Summer Playground Program for five summers. Each year, students and staff raise funds to send 500 campers to a Lansing Lugnuts game. Throughout the years, this event has grown to include a parade on the field and kids throwing the first pitch. Cooley Law School has been a great partner to Lansing Parks and Recreation.