Herndon Community Center recreation supervisors Ron Tillman and Amanda Herzog, and Ann Marie E. Heiser Deputy Director at Town of Herndon Parks and Recreation Department. Photo by Ryan Dunn.
“It is the Herndon Parks and Recreation Department and the Herndon Community Center staff’s honor to provide engaging, healthy and recreational programs and events,” said Abby Kimble, marketing specialist for the Herndon Parks and Recreation Department. On Tuesday, March 26, the Herndon Community Center celebrated its 35th anniversary. Throughout the day visitors enjoyed free admission to the Herndon community center and there were demonstrations and activities for all ages.
“The Herndon Community Center is a jewel of the Town of Herndon and we want everyone in the area to know about it and benefit from all it has to offer,” said Kimble. The Herndon Community Center (HCC) opened the first phase on March 25, 1979. Since opening its doors, the center has expanded its programs and now offers a fitness center, swimming pool, art classes, and tennis, basketball, and racquetball courts. “It is a convenient, close resource, I appreciate the childcare,” said Herndon resident Dawn Detrick. From Mondays to Thursdays the community center offers kid care to parents registered in HCC programs.
Sally Malloy, a pottery instructor, conducted a pottery demo. “About seven years ago I gave pottery a shot and now I am doing it full time,” said Malloy. Watching the demo was Herndon resident Jennifer Coulson and her children. “This is our first time visiting the community center, and we are impressed,” said Coulson. Coulson and her family are relatively new residents, having moved in just eight moths ago.
"The Herndon Community Center is a treasured amenity in the heart of Town,” stated Mayor Lisa Merkel. “Many people's first experience with the Town is through Community Center classes, and it is no surprise that the Parks and Recreation staff has received national recognition for their outstanding programs and events."
“I am proud of what the community center represents and glad to live in walking distance of it,” said Herndon council member Charlie D. Waddel. “The staff are special people who make the experience worth coming back to.” Throughout the year, Herndon Parks and Recreation Department intends to offer special events and promotions to celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the Herndon Community Center. “It’s got everything,” said town council member Dave Kirby. “The center has racquetball, gymnasium and much more. Many people use this facility from outside Herndon.”
At a reception with the Herndon Town Council, Mayor Merkel and the council presented a proclamation expressing appreciation to the staff and volunteers at Herndon Community Center, congratulating the Department of Parks and Recreation for a recognized comprehensive parks and recreation system. Also attending was town manager for the Town of Herndon, Arthur A. Anselene. Anselene has served as town manager since September 2007, prior to this served the Town of Herndon as director of Parks and Recreation, a position he assumed in 1976.
Anselene oversaw the development of a comprehensive parks and recreation system for the town to include a dozen parks, the indoor tennis center at Bready Park and the flagship Herndon Community Center. “The town jointly worked with Fairfax County to construct the building,” said Anselene. “It is great to see the success the community center has had in fulfilling the needs of the community.” To learn more about Herndon Community Center, visit www.herndon-va.gov/Content/Parks_rec/