RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - On March 13, 2024, Cordova Recreation & Park District (CRPD) joined the California Park & Recreation Society (CPRS) District 2 at their Awards & Installation Banquet where local park and recreation agencies came together to recognize outstanding agencies and professionals and install the 2024-2025 District 2 board members.

 From the left: CRPD Recreation Supervisors Heather Schelske, Nina Sinor and Nicole Lowery. Photo courtesy of CRPD

Nominated by CRPD, Gianni Chauppette was the recipient of this year’s Champion of the Community Award. Chauppette is an aspiring environmentalist and nature enthusiast from Troop 363 who recognized the potential for wildlife observation at Heron Landing Community Park. Combining his passion for nature and dedication to scouting, Chauppette proposed a unique project that would enhance visitors’ connection with the surrounding environment. As part of his project, he was able to raise nearly $11,000 thanks to contributions from 60 generous community members and CRPD.

In June of 2023, Gianni worked closely with CRPD to research and install an ADA-accessible binocular post overlooking the neighboring wetland preserve at Heron Landing Community Park. Nature enthusiasts can now easily get a close look at the local wildlife that call our region home. Visit the Heron Landing Community Park at 11750 Justinian Drive, Rancho Cordova, to check it out! To learn more about this project, visit bit.ly/CRPDbinoculars.

During the installment of the new CPRS District 2 board members, CRPD Recreation Supervisor Nina Sinor was appointed as the president elect, CRPD Recreation Supervisor Nicole Lowery was appointed as treasurer and CRPD Recreation Supervisor Heather Schelske was appointed as the aging section representative.

CRPD was proud to be a part of the CPRS District 2 awards banquet where park and recreation professionals came together to celebrate one another and the outstanding work throughout the previous year.

 CRPD board of directors and staff with Champion of the Community Gianni Chauppette and his family. Photo courtesy of CRPD