CEREMONIAL PRESENTATION ..Title Proclamation of "PARKS MAKES LIFE BETTER MONTH" ..Body RESOLUTION Resolution No.: ___________ RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRESNO, CALIFORNIA, PROCLAIMING JULY 2015 AS PARKS MAKE LIFE BETTER MONTH. WHEREAS, Parks and Recreation makes lives and communities better now and in the future; and WHEREAS, it is established through statewide public opinion research, 98% of California households visit a local park at least once a year; two in three households visit a park once a month; 50% of households participate in an organized recreation program; and most park use is with family and friends; and WHEREAS, residents value recreation as it provides positive alternatives for children and youth to reduce crime and mischief especially during nonschool hours; it promotes the arts, it increases social connections; aids in therapy; and promotes lifelong learning; and WHEREAS, residents value their parks for access to outdoor spaces for children and adults to play and be active; exercise and group sports; and WHEREAS, parks provide access to the serenity and the inspiration of nature and outdoor spaces as well as preserve and protect the historic, natural and cultural resources in our community; and WHEREAS, the residents of the City of Fresno including children, youth, families, adults, seniors, businesses, community organizations, and visitors benefit from the wide range of parks, trails, open space, sports fields, swimming pools, skate parks, community centers, and programs including the Healthy Lifestyle Fitness Program, Science, and Senior Hot Meals Programs provided by the City of Fresno Parks, After School, Recreation and Community Services (PARCS) Department; and WHEREAS, the Council of the City of Fresno urges all its residents to recognize that parks and recreation enriches the lives of its residents and visitors as well as adding value to the community's homes and neighborhoods; and WHEREAS, July is celebrated across the nation as Parks and Recreation Month, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the City of Fresno hereby proclaims July 2015 as Parks Make Life Better!? Month and in doing so, urges all its citizens to use and enjoy its parks, trails, open space, facilities, and recreation opportunities.