Town of Marana receives two APRA awards
Published on September 03, 2024
MARANA — The Marana Parks & Recreation Department has been honored with two awards from the Arizona Parks & Recreation Association (APRA) on August 26, 2024, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the community through innovative events and impactful media outreach.
OUTSTANDING EVENT - POPULATION 25-100K - MARANA FALL FESTIVAL
The department received the “Outstanding Event for Populations 25k-100k” award for the iconic Marana Fall Festival. This annual event, held each October, has become a beloved tradition, drawing thousands of residents and visitors to celebrate the season with live music, local food vendors, and family-friendly activities. This year’s festival stood out for its unique blend of entertainment, community partnerships, and engaging activities that brought together people of all ages. The festival’s success underscores the Town’s commitment to creating experiences that foster community spirit and connection.
Special Events Supervisor Shelby Scheer and Special Events Programmer Alex Roberts accepted the “Outstanding Event for Populations 25k-100k” award for Marana Fall Festival.
“Marana’s Fall Festival has evolved into a beloved community tradition right in the heart of the Gladden Farms neighborhood and we are honored that this event has been recognized as the “Best of the Best” in the state by the Arizona Parks & Recreation Association,” said Shelby Scheer, who oversees the planning and implementation of Marana Events. “This event is a special blend of western thrills, like our Mutton Bustin’ and rodeo activities for the kiddos, a rockin’ country band, and antique tractors combined with nine county fair-grade rides, vendor fair, free family activities, our famous sunflower field, and over 20 local food trucks: it really is a cowboy carnival designed for all ages to enjoy!”
Click here to learn more about the Signature Events series.
OUTSTANDING MEDIA - #SPLASHSAVVY
The department was also recognized with the “Outstanding Media” award for its #SplashSavvy program. This innovative water safety campaign, featuring the beloved mascot Sammy the Seal and spanning multiple departments and agencies, was designed to educate the community about the importance of water safety in a fun and engaging way. Through social media outreach, educational events, and partnerships with schools and community organizations, #SplashSavvy reached thousands of residents, significantly raising awareness about water safety practices.
Aquatics Programmer Allison Rock, Communications Manager Vic Hathaway, and Sammy the Seal accepted the “Outstanding Media” award for the #SplashSavvy program.
Click here to learn more about #SplashSavvy.
“#SplashSavvy is honored to receive the AZ Parks & Recreation Association Media Award,” said Aquatics Supervisor Kevin Goodrich, who spearheaded the event. “The Drowning Awareness message is an extremely valuable message to spread in the community, and it could not be as successful as it is without the help of all of our partners, especially, the Town of Marana Communications Division, in all of the branding and marketing material that is created and implemented from this team. We look forward to years ahead of Drowning Awareness and Drowning Response messaging and education. Stay safe and stay #SplashSavvy!”
“We’re thrilled that our work in media outreach is helping to keep Marana families safe and connected,” said Hathaway.
Additional partners for the #SplashSavvy program include Northwest Fire District, Marana Police Department, Public Safety Communications, and Marana Unified School District.
The Marana Parks & Recreation Department is excited to continue building on this momentum with a series of upcoming initiatives designed to engage and inspire the community. From new seasonal events to expanded recreational programs, the department remains dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all Marana residents.
ABOUT MARANA PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT:
The Marana Parks & Recreation Department is committed to providing exceptional recreational experiences, enhancing community well-being, and preserving the town’s natural and cultural resources. Through innovative programs and events, the department aims to foster a sense of community and improve the quality of life for all residents.
AWARD PHOTO GALLERY
Photos provided by J.D. Fitzgerald on behalf of the Arizona Parks & Recreation Association.