By Mary-Justine Lanyon
Dr. Hugh Bialecki had served the board of directors of the Rim of the World Recreation and Park District for 17 years.
At their March 25 meeting, the staff and board celebrated his service. Sidney Sonck, Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh’s field representative, was there in person to present Dr. Bialecki with a certificate honoring his service.
“You have been a huge part of the community since I was a child,” Chair Elizabeth Greeban told Bialecki. “In 1991 I was your ‘no cavity’ kid. It’s been such a pleasure to serve with you. I have seen your passion for the community. We’ve all been able to learn from you.”
Fellow director Lawrence Mainez told Bialecki, “I appreciate your guidance and your skill set. I could not have done it without you. You’ve become a good friend. What you do for the community is amazing.”
“I’m proud to have been able to serve with you,” was the comment from Director Gigi Bannister. “When we first met, we have a long discussion about saving parks and open spaces.”
“As the newest member,” said Director James White, “I appreciate the example you have been to all of us in this community. I hope the rest of us can live up to your example.”
“This board has worked together really well over the years,” Bialecki said. “I’ve been proud to serve. It comes down to staff carrying out the vision of the board. We have a really small staff for all that gets accomplished. It’s remarkable how much gets done.
General Manager Jenny Hueter and board members James White, Elizabeth Greeban, Lawrence Mainez and Gigi Bannister celebrated Dr. Hugh Bialecki’s 17 years of service to the Rec and Park district.
General Manager Jenny Hueter said she wanted to thank Bialecki personally for all his help. “Hugh has always been a great brainstorm person. It’s the passion, the what ifs, the connections you make with people. Thanks for being a great mentor. You’ll always be part of the park district family.”
Bialecki was presented with a proclamation from Rec and Park as well as a plaque; he also received a certificate from Supervisor Dawn Rowe.
Chair Elizabeth Greeban swore in Jeremy Follweiler as the new District 2 director.
Dr. Bialecki’s resignation from the board left a vacancy for a District 2 director. At the meeting, Chair Greeban interviewed Jeremy Follweiler, who had applied for the position.
The main reason he wanted to be on the board, Follweiler said, “is to keep the programs going that have been so beneficial to my family. I have no other agenda that to be helpful and be of service.”
When asked what motivated him, Follweiler said he is a product of parks and rec. “I grew up as one of the poorest kids in Seal Beach. It was parks and rec that gave me so many wonderful experiences and I want that for my children and the community.”
Follweiler said he would like to see veterans more involved with Rec and Park. “I think it would be great to have them as volunteers,” he said, noting he served in the Air Force for eight years. He added he would like to see another park in Crestline where people could gather and fellowship.
When asked why he believes he is the best candidate, Follweiler acknowledged he has big shoes to fill. But, he added, he is a “man of integrity – someone who wants to broaden what we have and make it better for everyone in the community.”
Greeban then administered the oath of office to Follweiler, who took his seat at the table with the other directors.
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