Hosts Dave and Leonard interview Director Dr. Melody F. Phillips and Deputy Director Tanya Warner about their new leadership roles at the City of Wilmington Parks and Recreation, highlighting youth-driven initiatives such as the Next Level Youth Leadership Summit, a youth entrepreneurship program, and expanded community events, including Play Streets and Open Streets.
The episode explores park equity, hidden local gems, mentorship, workforce development, challenges faced by women leaders, and ways residents can connect with Parks and Recreation to access programs and services.
00:00:00 --> 00:00:12 Music.
00:00:12 --> 00:00:18 Another edition of News and Trends with your host, Dave and Lynn.
00:00:18 --> 00:00:23 Talk to him low How could I possibly be inconspicuous With my flow as f***ing
00:00:23 --> 00:00:27 ridiculous That's quite an accent See I'm from the south What's up with the
00:00:27 --> 00:00:31 most cute Welcome, welcome, welcome to News and Trends with Dave and Lynn.
00:00:32 --> 00:00:36 This is one of your hosts, this is David Coker, proprietor of Dave Mark Inc.,
00:00:36 --> 00:00:39 promoter, event planner, and all-around good guy.
00:00:39 --> 00:00:44 I just wanted to remind everyone, letting you know you can listen to us on the
00:00:44 --> 00:00:49 MBG Podcast Network as well, where we have not only our show,
00:00:50 --> 00:00:53 but a plethora of other shows that you guys might want to tune into,
00:00:54 --> 00:00:57 as well as Internet Radio.
00:00:57 --> 00:01:06 This show will be Playback on Saturday at 10 o'clock on 101.5 The Fever Internet
00:01:06 --> 00:01:13 Radio with our buddy DJ Rives and his buddy Bobby Keys.
00:01:13 --> 00:01:18 We want to thank you guys for always incorporating us into your shows.
00:01:18 --> 00:01:26 And like I said, everyone, you can listen to the Playback at 10 o'clock on 101.5.
00:01:27 --> 00:01:30 Hanging out with my partner, Mr. Leonard Young. What's going on, sir?
00:01:30 --> 00:01:34 Hey, Dave. Everything is good. This is Leonard Young, CEO of National Black
00:01:34 --> 00:01:40 Guide, DelawareBlack.com, Black Media Specialist, all-around good guy. How goes it?
00:01:41 --> 00:01:47 Man, I can't call it. It's another wonderful day in the neighborhood. Yes, it is.
00:01:47 --> 00:01:51 Yeah, just hanging out, man. Summer's coming to an end real quick.
00:01:51 --> 00:01:55 Like, man, you know, some people are already back in school,
00:01:55 --> 00:01:58 you know. You know, it's depressing.
00:01:58 --> 00:02:03 You know, it's already depressing. It is. It is. It goes by way too fast.
00:02:03 --> 00:02:09 Did you do anything exciting over the weekend? I want to say no because nothing stands out.
00:02:09 --> 00:02:12 But just a regular weekend worked.
00:02:12 --> 00:02:18 Didn't get a lot of sleep. Probably did some kids stuff. But other than that, a regular weekend.
00:02:20 --> 00:02:21 What about yourself,
00:02:23 --> 00:02:28 Yeah, I've worked too. And then I did manage to go to a friend of mine who invited
00:02:28 --> 00:02:31 me to a barbecue. So I went to a barbecue this past weekend.
00:02:31 --> 00:02:33 That was really, really cool.
00:02:33 --> 00:02:38 And, you know, I got a busy weekend this weekend coming up. I got phase two
00:02:38 --> 00:02:40 of our family reunion coming up.
00:02:40 --> 00:02:43 You know, we did the one in June.
00:02:43 --> 00:02:46 Remember I told you I have a bunch of family downstate as well.
00:02:46 --> 00:02:50 So the downstate portion is doing their reunion this weekend.
00:02:50 --> 00:02:57 So I'm going down. I'll be down in Dover this weekend to phase two of the reunion.
00:02:58 --> 00:03:01 Now, is phase two going to be as big as phase one?
00:03:02 --> 00:03:07 I'm not sure how many will be showing up to this one, but I mean,
00:03:07 --> 00:03:10 I'm sure it'll be numbers.
00:03:10 --> 00:03:12 And, you know, phase one was pretty big.
00:03:13 --> 00:03:16 I'm sure there's going to be quite a few people at this one,
00:03:16 --> 00:03:19 too. So we'll see what happens.
00:03:21 --> 00:03:27 Sounds good I'm sure the food has got to be plentiful I'm sure I'm going to
00:03:27 --> 00:03:30 do my best to taste everything.
00:03:31 --> 00:03:39 I'm just letting you know so don't worry if I can I'll bring you a doggy bag no you won't.
00:03:40 --> 00:03:46 I wanted to sound good for our listeners that's not a problem,
00:03:47 --> 00:03:49 but you know you're my boy though you know
00:03:49 --> 00:03:55 you're my boy so don't worry hungry hungry okay all
00:03:55 --> 00:03:59 right so but i'm really really excited
00:03:59 --> 00:04:02 about tonight's show because man we got
00:04:02 --> 00:04:08 double we got double fun with us today and you know and i you know and i know
00:04:08 --> 00:04:13 that we we have a lot of people who've been who gonna want to hear what these
00:04:13 --> 00:04:19 two young ladies have to say so why don't you uh why don't you read their information
00:04:19 --> 00:04:21 and let people know who we have.
00:04:22 --> 00:04:27 Coming on the show today? Sure. So the first person we have is Dr. Melody F.
00:04:28 --> 00:04:30 Phillips, Director of Wilmington Parks and Recreation.
00:04:31 --> 00:04:37 Dr. Phillips is a proud Southbridge native and the first woman to serve as the
00:04:37 --> 00:04:39 Director of the Wilmington Parks and Recreation.
00:04:39 --> 00:04:44 With over 20 years of experience in government, nonprofit, and youth-focused
00:04:44 --> 00:04:51 leadership, she oversees five divisions and has driven major growth in community programs,
00:04:52 --> 00:04:56 including expanding youth membership at the Hicks-Anderson Community Center
00:04:56 --> 00:04:59 from zero to 300 in one year.
00:04:59 --> 00:05:06 She previously led organizations at the Teen Warehouse, co-founded I Am My Sister's
00:05:06 --> 00:05:11 Keeper, and earned a PhD in organizational leadership in 2024.
00:05:12 --> 00:05:16 Active in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated.
00:05:16 --> 00:05:19 And my friend Portia Green said, tell her I said, hey.
00:05:20 --> 00:05:22 I was like, Portia, she may not know you. She was like, yes,
00:05:23 --> 00:05:24 tell her I said, hey. I said, okay.
00:05:25 --> 00:05:28 And she's also a part of several community boards.
00:05:29 --> 00:05:33 Dr. Phillips has been recognized with multiple awards for her impact,
00:05:33 --> 00:05:37 guided by the belief you are not simply a product of your environment,
00:05:38 --> 00:05:40 change your environment from within.
00:05:41 --> 00:05:44 She continues to inspire positive change across Wilmington.
00:05:45 --> 00:05:47 Dr. Phyllis, we'd like to welcome you to the show.
00:05:48 --> 00:05:54 And then we also have Tanya Warner, Deputy Director of Wilmington Parks and Recreation.
00:05:55 --> 00:05:59 Tanya has dedicated over 30 years of her career to public service with the Delaware
00:05:59 --> 00:06:04 Department of Health and Social Services, where she advanced from a frontline
00:06:04 --> 00:06:09 social worker to management and then to administration,
00:06:09 --> 00:06:13 ultimately serving as special projects manager in the office of the secretary.
00:06:14 --> 00:06:19 She holds a degree in human services from Delaware Technical and Community College
00:06:19 --> 00:06:24 and has continued her professional development through leadership programs and
00:06:24 --> 00:06:27 certifications in areas such as motivational interviewing.
00:06:28 --> 00:06:32 Trauma-informed care, and advanced psychological first aid.
00:06:33 --> 00:06:36 Known for her ability to take projects from concept to completion,
00:06:37 --> 00:06:43 Tanya is passionate about helping others find their personal power and reach their full potential.
00:06:43 --> 00:06:48 With her empathetic nature, positive outlook, and strong talent for connecting
00:06:48 --> 00:06:50 people and building partnerships.
00:06:50 --> 00:06:55 She brings a wealth of expertise in program development, policy,
00:06:56 --> 00:06:59 grants, workforce development, and leadership.
00:06:59 --> 00:07:03 So without further ado, Dr. Melody F.
00:07:03 --> 00:07:05 Phillips, Tanya Warner, we'd like to welcome you to the show.
00:07:06 --> 00:07:09 Thank you. Thank you. Yeah.
00:07:14 --> 00:07:25 So, you know, first of all, we would just like to congratulate you on these new positions.
00:07:25 --> 00:07:30 And I know Dave and I are excited. Well, first for me, I'm excited to meet both
00:07:30 --> 00:07:32 of you. I know Dave knows everybody.
00:07:33 --> 00:07:37 So, you know, he already. But I'm excited to meet you. I also want to say congratulations.
00:07:38 --> 00:07:43 So I guess, Melody, if I may, I guess if you can start. So you are the first
00:07:43 --> 00:07:46 woman to serve as the director of Parks and Recreation.
00:07:47 --> 00:07:52 Can you kind of tell me what that feels like or how proud you are to kind of
00:07:52 --> 00:07:54 hold that position or that title?
00:07:54 --> 00:07:57 Yes. Yes. Thank you, Pearl. Thank you for the congratulations.
00:07:57 --> 00:08:00 Thank you for the warm welcome. It is surreal.
00:08:01 --> 00:08:07 It's like, oh my goodness, during very tumultuous times going on in the world right now.
00:08:07 --> 00:08:12 It is one of those things that makes me super proud and super excited that other
00:08:12 --> 00:08:15 young girls, like girls from I Am My Sister's Keeper,
00:08:15 --> 00:08:20 like girls I have mentored to show, and women who are coming up to me like,
00:08:20 --> 00:08:22 would you coach me? Would you be my mentor? How did you do this?
00:08:23 --> 00:08:29 And I'm really excited about it because it allows youth who I'm absolutely passionate
00:08:29 --> 00:08:30 about to see that they can do anything.
00:08:30 --> 00:08:34 They can go from Southbridge to the boardroom and they
00:08:34 --> 00:08:37 can really put something together and they they can
00:08:37 --> 00:08:40 do well in and everything that they that they're
00:08:40 --> 00:08:43 thinking about in life so super excited about it there is
00:08:43 --> 00:08:46 a woman who paved the way for me to serve
00:08:46 --> 00:08:49 as the first director and her name was Jenny Weaver she served as the first
00:08:49 --> 00:08:55 parks superintendent before there was ever a parks and recreation for the city
00:08:55 --> 00:09:00 of Wilmington at one point there was just the parks department it did not have
00:09:00 --> 00:09:05 parks and recreation and then they later on added recreation and then kept going.
00:09:05 --> 00:09:10 And so there's a park named after Jenny Weaver for her being the first superintendent park.
00:09:10 --> 00:09:15 So she set the way and paved the way as well as Janet Lane Brown,
00:09:15 --> 00:09:20 who served as the first deputy director, first woman deputy director during
00:09:20 --> 00:09:23 the, she served as Romaine Alexander's director.
00:09:24 --> 00:09:26 About probably about six or seven years ago.
00:09:26 --> 00:09:31 So for those women, they kind of paved the way for Tanya and I, so excited about that.
00:09:32 --> 00:09:37 Yeah, I went to school with Janet. And yeah, I know her well.
00:09:38 --> 00:09:42 All right. Well, Melody and Tanya, I can already say Dave's going to continuously
00:09:42 --> 00:09:45 tell us about all the people he went to school with.
00:09:45 --> 00:09:49 Dave went to school with everybody from Eastside, Southbridge,
00:09:49 --> 00:09:51 probably Northside, Westside.
00:09:52 --> 00:09:55 And they all went to H.B. DuPont High School, from what Dave said.
00:09:56 --> 00:10:02 Anyway, go ahead, go ahead, go ahead. But so, Melody, for people who may not be familiar,
00:10:03 --> 00:10:09 can you kind of explain what the mission of Wilmington Parks and Recreation
00:10:09 --> 00:10:14 and then the role that you play as director and what you are responsible for?
00:10:15 --> 00:10:20 Absolutely. So our mission in Parks and Recreation is first to provide clean and safe parks.
00:10:21 --> 00:10:24 It actually was something that one of our city council members was like,
00:10:24 --> 00:10:28 hey, do you know Parks and Recreation mission statement doesn't speak to parks at all?
00:10:28 --> 00:10:31 And talked about a lot of recreation and educational initiatives.
00:10:32 --> 00:10:36 So this year we did made sure that it was updated and city council approved it.
00:10:36 --> 00:10:40 And so that's first and foremost, making sure that every constituent across
00:10:40 --> 00:10:43 the city of Wilmington has access to safe and clean parks.
00:10:43 --> 00:10:49 Then, or in collaboration with that, it is the mission to ensure that youth
00:10:49 --> 00:10:54 and adults receive recreational activities that benefit their health and their wellness.
00:10:54 --> 00:11:00 In addition to the mayor's priorities, which is education, with a specific age
00:11:00 --> 00:11:04 range of kindergarten through eighth grade, emphasizing kindergarten through
00:11:04 --> 00:11:06 third grade around reading comprehension.
00:11:07 --> 00:11:09 Literacy development, and mathematics.
00:11:10 --> 00:11:13 And so that's the mission currently of Parks and Recreation,
00:11:13 --> 00:11:17 to ensure those clean and safe parks so families feel like when they go inside
00:11:17 --> 00:11:19 the park it's vibrant, they want to play with their children there.
00:11:19 --> 00:11:23 And then also when youth are coming into William Hicks Anderson Community Center
00:11:23 --> 00:11:27 or any of our extended partners like the PAL Center, like People's Settlement,
00:11:28 --> 00:11:29 that they are knowing like, oh,
00:11:29 --> 00:11:33 Parks is helping to lead the way on these educational initiatives as well.
00:11:34 --> 00:11:38 Gotcha. Okay. Thank you for that. And Tanya, of course, we want to congratulate
00:11:38 --> 00:11:40 you on your role, Deputy Director.
00:11:41 --> 00:11:45 Can you kind of explain your role in Parks and Recreation?
00:11:46 --> 00:11:55 My role is to support Melody, of course, and all of our diverse staff over those five divisions.
00:11:55 --> 00:12:04 I believe one of the reasons for my fire is to infuse some new and innovative ideas,
00:12:04 --> 00:12:11 as well as support those projects and initiatives that have been proven already.
00:12:11 --> 00:12:17 Already, but to kind of give it just a little bit of a nudge and a new perspective
00:12:17 --> 00:12:22 and to ensure that we are looking at everything holistically.
00:12:23 --> 00:12:29 As we're talking about wellness, that is both physical and mental.
00:12:29 --> 00:12:32 When most people think recreation, they think, you know, physicality,
00:12:33 --> 00:12:36 but we are looking at the whole person, the whole community,
00:12:37 --> 00:12:43 places which need to be, need to have some feeling and need to have some introspection
00:12:43 --> 00:12:47 so that we are all healthy and doing well.
00:12:48 --> 00:12:53 Sure. So I know you mentioned some, I guess, innovation.
00:12:53 --> 00:13:02 You know, what are, and you know, I'm sure probably in positions prior,
00:13:02 --> 00:13:06 there are probably people who kind of just did what the person before them did
00:13:06 --> 00:13:08 and, you know, a lot of the same stuff.
00:13:08 --> 00:13:11 Are there things that, you know,
00:13:11 --> 00:13:15 the community can kind of look forward to during this administration?
00:13:16 --> 00:13:23 As Melody has stated, the mayor's priority is about education and infusing education
00:13:23 --> 00:13:25 into our different programs.
00:13:25 --> 00:13:32 So there will be opportunities potentially for not just our young participants,
00:13:32 --> 00:13:38 but some of our senior folks to be able to help enhance and move our youth forward.
00:13:38 --> 00:13:47 We are looking to utilize staff, resources, and community, especially those
00:13:47 --> 00:13:50 advocates in bringing us together,
00:13:50 --> 00:13:57 firming up our partnerships, and understanding what we are all doing so that
00:13:57 --> 00:14:04 we do it together and that we're not duplicative and that people are heard.
00:14:05 --> 00:14:13 And that we understand what the ongoing needs are of our community that we serve.
00:14:14 --> 00:14:18 Sure. And so I guess this next question is for the both of you,
00:14:18 --> 00:14:25 because I'm sure your position is very much community service or feels like community service.
00:14:26 --> 00:14:31 And, you know, I know probably wherever you go, the community is leaning on
00:14:31 --> 00:14:40 you to make changes. is, you know, what motivated you to kind of assume these roles?
00:14:40 --> 00:14:43 And I only say it because, you know, community service, you know,
00:14:43 --> 00:14:48 a lot of, or kind of being at the service of the community can be very challenging.
00:14:49 --> 00:14:54 You know, a lot of things you do, people don't understand the process.
00:14:54 --> 00:14:59 They're always looking for the results. So, you know, I guess what is your passion
00:14:59 --> 00:15:05 or where did your passion come from where, you know, this role kind of aligns
00:15:05 --> 00:15:08 with, you know, what you are about?
00:15:09 --> 00:15:11 You want to start, Tanya, now?
00:15:12 --> 00:15:18 Sure. So, as my bio said, my entire career has been in public service.
00:15:18 --> 00:15:24 It is, I have always been a firm believer that public service is a calling and
00:15:24 --> 00:15:30 you know in your gut, in your heart, in your soul, what it is that you want to do.
00:15:30 --> 00:15:36 And from time to time, I talk to staff and reassure them that I understand that
00:15:36 --> 00:15:42 sometimes it feels like it's a thankless job, but that the rewards,
00:15:42 --> 00:15:48 especially when you see the growth of our youth, the growth of our communities,
00:15:49 --> 00:15:52 communities coming together, it's all worth it.
00:15:52 --> 00:15:57 It has been something that I have done since I was a youth myself.
00:15:57 --> 00:16:04 It is something that I'm extremely passionate about because I'm a native Wilmingtonian. I'm a Northside girl.
00:16:06 --> 00:16:15 And I am a firm believer in you lead with heart.
00:16:16 --> 00:16:24 You lead with heart. If we can, if we can start there, then we can pretty much do anything.
00:16:24 --> 00:16:29 So this has been something that I have always had a passion for.
00:16:29 --> 00:16:35 As I stated, my entire career is based in, you know, serving others,
00:16:35 --> 00:16:39 vulnerable population, those who are underserved.
00:16:39 --> 00:16:45 It's definitely right now in this climate needed. I actually retired.
00:16:47 --> 00:16:50 They brought you back?
00:16:50 --> 00:16:56 Yes. And the resounding answer was yes.
00:16:56 --> 00:17:00 Wow. Yes. Because I believe in this city.
00:17:00 --> 00:17:07 I believe in its administration. I believe in the direction that Park and Rex is going.
00:17:07 --> 00:17:13 And I absolutely believe in the leadership of our Dr. Melody Phillips,
00:17:13 --> 00:17:15 and I am willing to serve and follow.
00:17:16 --> 00:17:21 Awesome. Well, so a few things. I was going to touch on to a couple of those
00:17:21 --> 00:17:26 innovative programs. So we just wrapped up what was called our Next Level Youth Leadership Summit.
00:17:26 --> 00:17:29 It's the first time that the City of Wilmington, through Parks and Recreation,
00:17:30 --> 00:17:34 ever had a true youth-led summit, which means that the keynote speakers were
00:17:34 --> 00:17:37 youth, the breakout session leaders were youth, They did the booklet,
00:17:38 --> 00:17:40 they did the badges, they did the flyer, et cetera.
00:17:40 --> 00:17:44 So the community can continue to look forward to things like that,
00:17:44 --> 00:17:47 which is going to connect to why I'm so passionate about this.
00:17:47 --> 00:17:51 And then this fall, we're going to be launching the Parks and Recreation Youth
00:17:51 --> 00:17:53 Entrepreneurship Business Program.
00:17:54 --> 00:17:58 It's going to be an eight to 10 week program focused on teaching young people
00:17:58 --> 00:18:03 all about the difference in an LLC, a proprietorship, a nonprofit,
00:18:03 --> 00:18:05 which avenue they want to go in.
00:18:05 --> 00:18:10 What does it mean when you have a business account versus a personal checking
00:18:10 --> 00:18:11 account or business savings?
00:18:11 --> 00:18:15 How does credit work, et cetera? We have a lot of businesses that are interested
00:18:15 --> 00:18:20 in helping us come in and, you know, facilitate to the youth who ultimately
00:18:20 --> 00:18:23 sign up for that program as well.
00:18:23 --> 00:18:26 Those are those are two that are really focused on our teams.
00:18:26 --> 00:18:30 And then, of course, making sure to Tanya's point that we are doing as much
00:18:30 --> 00:18:35 tutoring, offering as many tutoring service homework help to our younger youth.
00:18:35 --> 00:18:40 Which gets me to why I am passionate about not just serving in parks and recreation,
00:18:40 --> 00:18:43 but like you said earlier, in reference to like community service.
00:18:44 --> 00:18:48 I share my story a lot because I think it's really important to make sure that
00:18:48 --> 00:18:52 young people know that they matter My grandmother raised me during a very tumultuous
00:18:52 --> 00:18:56 time when my mom was caught up in the crack epidemic And then my mom went to
00:18:56 --> 00:19:02 jail for 15 years and then I didn't see her for a total of 20 And so when I was in sixth grade,
00:19:02 --> 00:19:05 I had a teacher who came up to me who happened to be a
00:19:05 --> 00:19:11 Delta And she and she said to me you are not just a little black girl from the
00:19:11 --> 00:19:16 hood You are a black girl who's going to turn into a young lady and a woman
00:19:16 --> 00:19:21 and impact generations after you And she kind of cupped my face when she was
00:19:21 --> 00:19:23 saying it and her name is dr.
00:19:23 --> 00:19:27 Terry Joyner And in the moment at 12 years old, I was like this lady is crazy
00:19:27 --> 00:19:32 and I don't know what she's talking about And I she doesn't know where I come
00:19:32 --> 00:19:36 from doesn't know I live but she started really pouring into And mentoring me.
00:19:36 --> 00:19:40 I went to my first ballet because of her my first play because of her I understood
00:19:40 --> 00:19:42 table etiquette because of her.
00:19:42 --> 00:19:45 And so she was literally a teacher coming to my house, picking me up,
00:19:46 --> 00:19:47 letting me spend the night.
00:19:47 --> 00:19:50 I thought Hocas in Delaware was somewhere else. I was like, what?
00:19:51 --> 00:19:54 She was like, oh, this is Delaware. I was like, black people are allowed to live here.
00:19:55 --> 00:20:01 And I'm 12 years old and this was just really new. So I have a strong,
00:20:01 --> 00:20:07 strong passion about this in the same way Tanya does to show young people know
00:20:07 --> 00:20:11 that no matter what circumstance happened to you while you were growing up,
00:20:11 --> 00:20:13 it does not determine your future.
00:20:13 --> 00:20:19 You can do a variety of different things. And so I share that because it's really important.
00:20:19 --> 00:20:24 And even that grace and forgiveness, because to this day, me and my mom are thickest thieves.
00:20:24 --> 00:20:29 That is my girl. And it took a long time to get there and making sure that we
00:20:29 --> 00:20:30 had a really strong relationship.
00:20:31 --> 00:20:33 And we built upon that while she was serving time.
00:20:34 --> 00:20:39 But grace and forgiveness and having that passion to serve is why I do what I do.
00:20:40 --> 00:20:44 Gotcha. And you actually touched on my next question because my next question
00:20:44 --> 00:20:49 was, you know, what are some some programs that Parks and Rec is looking to
00:20:49 --> 00:20:51 do or does that engage the youth?
00:20:51 --> 00:20:55 You talked about the Youth Summit, the youth. Was it the business?
00:20:56 --> 00:21:00 Entrepreneurship. business program. And the reason why I ask that is,
00:21:00 --> 00:21:06 of course, we always hear about crime and the young kids in the community.
00:21:07 --> 00:21:11 And we've seen lately in some other cities, the more activities,
00:21:11 --> 00:21:17 the more they can be involved in things, the less that they're involved in some
00:21:17 --> 00:21:18 of those other activities.
00:21:19 --> 00:21:22 So I'm definitely excited. And when you mentioned the Youth Summit,
00:21:22 --> 00:21:24 I do remember we're seeing the information for it.
00:21:25 --> 00:21:28 So, you know, just to know more information that it was, I guess,
00:21:28 --> 00:21:33 organized by young kids, facilitated, you know, that's really awesome.
00:21:33 --> 00:21:36 Are there going to be more of youth summer coming? Is that going to be like
00:21:36 --> 00:21:40 a once a year or do you think that may be a little more often?
00:21:40 --> 00:21:43 Right now, it's probably going to be once a year. If we can try to do it again
00:21:43 --> 00:21:47 in this current fiscal year that's starting in July, it will end in June, May.
00:21:47 --> 00:21:53 It was, we decided to bring on a new track this summer as a part of our youth
00:21:53 --> 00:21:54 career development program.
00:21:55 --> 00:21:59 So normally the youth career development program or what the community knows, summer youth, right?
00:21:59 --> 00:22:03 The city of Wilmington Parks and Recreation is going to hire 300 young people
00:22:03 --> 00:22:08 across the city and we're going to allow them to work for anywhere between six to eight weeks.
00:22:08 --> 00:22:11 It might be working in the parks, helping feed.
00:22:11 --> 00:22:15 It might be the variety of different summer camps or placed with a variety at
00:22:15 --> 00:22:17 different businesses and organizations across the city.
00:22:18 --> 00:22:22 And what we wanted to do was really try to tap into our youth who are still
00:22:22 --> 00:22:28 teenagers, 18, 19, you know, 20, and get them to see that they can actually
00:22:28 --> 00:22:30 lead the younger youth who were employed,
00:22:31 --> 00:22:33 all of those 14 through 17-year-olds.
00:22:33 --> 00:22:37 And so it was a vision of mine because I said, you can do this.
00:22:37 --> 00:22:41 And of course, we then decided to turn that into what's called Next Level.
00:22:41 --> 00:22:43 So that was our Next Level Internship Program.
00:22:44 --> 00:22:47 When those youth came on board, they did. They had employer sites.
00:22:47 --> 00:22:51 And every Tuesday throughout the summer, they worked in their committees to
00:22:51 --> 00:22:55 come up with and plan for the next level youth leadership.
00:22:55 --> 00:22:59 So when I first gave them the information and said, you're going to be leading
00:22:59 --> 00:23:03 this and everything, their faces were like, what? it.
00:23:03 --> 00:23:06 No, you know, they didn't, you know, they weren't grasping it.
00:23:06 --> 00:23:10 And then I came back and then Nicole Torrance, who is our program administrator,
00:23:10 --> 00:23:14 amazing job with, you know, another youth counselor by the name of Brittany,
00:23:15 --> 00:23:19 kept talking to them and having them break out into many subcommittees and everything.
00:23:20 --> 00:23:25 And the next thing I know, these young people were off to the races and just
00:23:25 --> 00:23:28 taking everything that I kind of envisioned in my head that I wanted to see
00:23:28 --> 00:23:31 and took it even further than I could even imagine.
00:23:31 --> 00:23:38 And so not only am I like super proud of them, it was also having other organizations
00:23:38 --> 00:23:40 and communities say, how did you do this?
00:23:41 --> 00:23:46 We need to figure out, we need to partner, you know, figure this out. So just excited.
00:23:46 --> 00:23:52 And knowing that like Tanya and I had that shared passion to help young people
00:23:52 --> 00:23:58 and workforce and getting them to lead initiatives and getting adults out of
00:23:58 --> 00:24:00 the way just made it 10 times better.
00:24:00 --> 00:24:07 Yeah, it was one of the first events that I, in my official capacity, got to go to.
00:24:07 --> 00:24:13 And now I'm just even more excited than I was looking at some of the subject
00:24:13 --> 00:24:16 matter and topics that they just say selected to do. Right.
00:24:17 --> 00:24:23 Was amazing from financial literacy, mental health, preparing for college, public speaking.
00:24:23 --> 00:24:25 It was amazing. Awesome.
00:24:26 --> 00:24:33 Now, so, you know, of course, Parks and Rec, I guess, encompasses the whole city of Wilmington.
00:24:33 --> 00:24:41 Are there, how do you ensure that, I guess, there's equity between the different areas?
00:24:41 --> 00:24:46 And, you know, sometimes, I mean, of course, we hear in different areas that
00:24:46 --> 00:24:51 some areas may get priority, which may be because maybe they're just easier
00:24:51 --> 00:24:53 to develop, easier to put programs.
00:24:53 --> 00:24:56 Maybe the community supports some more.
00:24:56 --> 00:25:00 And then maybe some areas are, you know, you don't have all that support.
00:25:00 --> 00:25:02 How do you make sure that,
00:25:03 --> 00:25:09 Or how do you try to make sure that all areas kind of get the same resources, the same effort?
00:25:10 --> 00:25:15 So you have to, well, there's a few different ways, but particularly for Parks
00:25:15 --> 00:25:18 and Recreation, it's partnering with all the city council members.
00:25:18 --> 00:25:22 So that's one way, because the city council members represent all of the districts
00:25:22 --> 00:25:25 and you have certain ones that are city council at large.
00:25:25 --> 00:25:30 And so having them be actively engaged in all of our activities allows us to
00:25:30 --> 00:25:32 increase equity. And I'll give a few examples.
00:25:33 --> 00:25:37 Over the summertime, we host summer movie cinema. We host play streets,
00:25:38 --> 00:25:42 which is blocking off the street throughout all eight districts over the course
00:25:42 --> 00:25:44 of four times in July, four times in August.
00:25:45 --> 00:25:48 The summer movie cinema is also placed in each district.
00:25:48 --> 00:25:52 And then we also have like our annual splash party during July,
00:25:52 --> 00:25:56 which is National Parks and Recreation Month. So it is making sure that we are
00:25:56 --> 00:25:59 connecting with all those city council members to get the information out to
00:25:59 --> 00:26:02 their neighborhood planning councils and the civic associations.
00:26:02 --> 00:26:08 So that way, all of the programs and activities that we have to offer can.
00:26:08 --> 00:26:10 You know, that the community knows about it.
00:26:10 --> 00:26:14 And then when we shift to like the after school and the academic year,
00:26:14 --> 00:26:19 it's those extended partnerships with MSK Community Center, with the PAL,
00:26:19 --> 00:26:20 with Brown Boys and Girls Club.
00:26:21 --> 00:26:25 With now soon to be additional partnerships with People Settlement to say,
00:26:26 --> 00:26:30 hey, we are here, we're trying to serve, including with the Community Education
00:26:30 --> 00:26:33 Building who has a variety of different schools in it.
00:26:33 --> 00:26:36 You have Kowoomba there, you have Great Oaks, you have University of Delaware,
00:26:36 --> 00:26:40 you have Network Connect and making sure that we're connected to all of these
00:26:40 --> 00:26:40 extended partnerships.
00:26:41 --> 00:26:46 So now it's more of an even playing field and how the services are being brought to the community.
00:26:47 --> 00:26:53 Okay. And I think one of my last questions for both of you, and this is an easy
00:26:53 --> 00:26:58 question, but so of course, you know, there are a lot of parks in the city of Wilmington.
00:26:58 --> 00:27:03 And which park do you feel is the most kind of like the hidden secret?
00:27:04 --> 00:27:09 I'm sure there's a park where it should be utilized more, but for some reason
00:27:09 --> 00:27:14 it's just not utilized as much as some of the others. But it's a great park.
00:27:14 --> 00:27:18 And if people knew knew about it, maybe visited it more, you know,
00:27:18 --> 00:27:20 it may be one of their favorites.
00:27:20 --> 00:27:25 We probably both have one. Tanya, do you have one that you? I'm thinking I just
00:27:25 --> 00:27:31 recently went on a ride along to a couple of them and I,
00:27:31 --> 00:27:40 For me, because I even, as much as I'm around Wilmington, didn't really realize is the state park.
00:27:42 --> 00:27:49 There is, and it's amazing that many who utilize it come from out of state because
00:27:49 --> 00:27:51 they have their own network and community.
00:27:51 --> 00:27:56 And it really is a gem and something that has taken decades,
00:27:56 --> 00:28:00 decades to be able to bring to fruition.
00:28:00 --> 00:28:09 So for me, it's probably the skate park because I'm uncertain how well it's
00:28:09 --> 00:28:15 utilized by locals or those outside of the skateboard community.
00:28:15 --> 00:28:21 Yeah. Because that's another, because we're looking to diversify sports and
00:28:21 --> 00:28:29 it would be great for some of our youth to really get into skateboarding.
00:28:30 --> 00:28:34 Now, for people who may not be familiar, what area is that?
00:28:34 --> 00:28:39 I think I know the skate park you're talking about, but I don't want to say
00:28:39 --> 00:28:41 I'm ignoring it from my co-host. So.
00:28:47 --> 00:28:51 It's the one It's the one that
00:28:51 --> 00:28:58 Is close to The riverfront but it is Under it's behind The underpass and the
00:28:58 --> 00:29:04 railroad Track With the actual Address
00:29:04 --> 00:29:10 or I can Follow up with the actual Address of where It is but it is
00:29:11 --> 00:29:14 easily accessible through the coming from,
00:29:15 --> 00:29:23 The riverfront area kind of close to the movie theater off Maryland Avenue. Oh, okay.
00:29:24 --> 00:29:29 Gotcha. The area where it is. I would probably have to, so that was a really great one, Tanya.
00:29:29 --> 00:29:32 I would say East Lawn Playground and Park.
00:29:33 --> 00:29:37 Lake, and then there's an East Lawn. I mean, so when you talk about a hidden
00:29:37 --> 00:29:40 gem, East Lawn is a truly hidden gem.
00:29:40 --> 00:29:44 It's kind of, you know, in the cut behind, you know, you don't really know what's
00:29:44 --> 00:29:46 there. The park was renovated a few years ago.
00:29:46 --> 00:29:51 It has great playground equipment, a nice basketball court, park benches.
00:29:51 --> 00:29:58 It is probably not utilized as much as it could be, but we did one of our movie
00:29:58 --> 00:30:03 nights there. And even my team was like, wait, when, is this park new?
00:30:04 --> 00:30:08 Like, always a park? And I was like, yes, it's, you know, it's always been a park.
00:30:08 --> 00:30:14 So because it's kind of like, it literally a hidden gem and you can't necessarily
00:30:14 --> 00:30:18 see it right from, you know, any, the, a main, a main street,
00:30:19 --> 00:30:23 it sits right at, on North Church street, 3601 North Church street.
00:30:23 --> 00:30:26 And so it is East Lawn, East Lawn playground. it
00:30:26 --> 00:30:29 is really a really nice you know it's one of our smaller
00:30:29 --> 00:30:32 parks but it's really nice and the community does a great job
00:30:32 --> 00:30:35 you know maintaining it and keeping it extremely clean over
00:30:35 --> 00:30:39 there as well yeah thank you it's
00:30:39 --> 00:30:42 so funny you mentioned that part because i i used to
00:30:42 --> 00:30:45 go there when i was a kid i grew up in riverside see
00:30:45 --> 00:30:48 i told you hey look look i think look i
00:30:48 --> 00:30:51 know we know you guys man i've
00:30:51 --> 00:30:53 been here a little bit i've been here for a little bit you know you've been
00:30:53 --> 00:30:56 everywhere okay anyway so but i
00:30:56 --> 00:30:59 that park in east lawn that is funny that you
00:30:59 --> 00:31:02 you mentioned that that is a place that's very
00:31:02 --> 00:31:05 hidden and if you don't if you've never been in
00:31:05 --> 00:31:08 east lawn you wouldn't know anything about it but i
00:31:08 --> 00:31:14 always felt that way about fox point park there too because fox point you know
00:31:14 --> 00:31:22 how many times have people come off of 495 and going in to wilmington and And
00:31:22 --> 00:31:26 go on wherever they're going in that area and not know there's a park right there.
00:31:26 --> 00:31:32 I mean, and it's probably been over the last five years that people really start
00:31:32 --> 00:31:35 to find out about it, started to find out about it, you know,
00:31:36 --> 00:31:37 and it's a beautiful park.
00:31:37 --> 00:31:41 Leonard, have you ever been there? So, Dave, I'm probably one of the people
00:31:41 --> 00:31:44 who rode right by it. There you go. Yep.
00:31:45 --> 00:31:51 So that's one of those parks as well. So I just wanted to throw that in there.
00:31:51 --> 00:31:59 But you guys, both of you guys have come from very diverse backgrounds.
00:31:59 --> 00:32:03 I know, like, Leonard, you heard Tanya say she just retired,
00:32:03 --> 00:32:05 which she did. But, you know, she came.
00:32:05 --> 00:32:11 Now, Tanya, what's been the challenge with coming from you've been on the state
00:32:11 --> 00:32:15 side all these years and now you're moving in, moving to the city?
00:32:15 --> 00:32:21 Has there been any challenges or what challenges do you think will happen with
00:32:21 --> 00:32:27 you changing from what you're used to going into a whole new endeavor?
00:32:27 --> 00:32:32 I will say that, and Melody has been really good and patient,
00:32:32 --> 00:32:37 is that I'm used to being the subject matter expert because I've been around for a long time.
00:32:38 --> 00:32:45 And I try to apply some of the rule regulations or policies that, you know,
00:32:45 --> 00:32:51 are governed either federally or by the state to the city just to find out it's
00:32:51 --> 00:32:53 like, no, it doesn't quite work that way.
00:32:53 --> 00:32:58 The good part about that is, is that I do come with a wealth of knowledge and
00:32:58 --> 00:33:04 I can easily pivot to the different changes that don't quite align.
00:33:04 --> 00:33:09 But the foundation of the information is the same.
00:33:09 --> 00:33:13 The specifics and how you apply them are a little different.
00:33:13 --> 00:33:24 So that's been my challenge in turning off that 30-year federal state and cutting
00:33:24 --> 00:33:28 on and opening up to the city.
00:33:28 --> 00:33:33 And I have to say that some of the ways that the city applies things,
00:33:33 --> 00:33:36 I'm loving better. I'm absolutely loving better.
00:33:37 --> 00:33:44 Oh, I know. Oh, I'm sure. Let me ask, Melody, and actually this is a question
00:33:44 --> 00:33:47 for both of you. I'd like to hear what both of you have to say about it.
00:33:48 --> 00:33:56 With the new administration, how has the transition been with the new administration that,
00:33:57 --> 00:34:01 you know, as far as the mayor's office and with the new administration in your
00:34:01 --> 00:34:07 own building, How has the mesh been as far as getting together and working together
00:34:07 --> 00:34:11 and being able to see the visions that each of you have?
00:34:11 --> 00:34:20 Well, working together has the new city administration has been pretty good.
00:34:21 --> 00:34:27 I've been here a week, a work week, and I've already met twice with the mayor.
00:34:27 --> 00:34:33 And that is because of his focus, priority, and passion for his platform,
00:34:34 --> 00:34:43 which is education and ensuring that we have opportunities for both youth and
00:34:43 --> 00:34:44 adults, and including seniors,
00:34:45 --> 00:34:48 have opportunities that they may not have had before.
00:34:48 --> 00:34:54 And to ensure that those opportunities and programs that we already have get
00:34:54 --> 00:35:01 expanded to include that and for especially the youth to be able to experience.
00:35:02 --> 00:35:08 Different potentially sporting activities that they may not have before that
00:35:08 --> 00:35:13 might not be the most traditional that they're used to, like basketball, football.
00:35:14 --> 00:35:20 We really want to start expanding the different types of sports that we provide.
00:35:20 --> 00:35:25 So that has been a key piece. And that's something I'm a sports person.
00:35:25 --> 00:35:30 I love sports. So when we started looking at other sports that are non-traditional,
00:35:31 --> 00:35:35 that's going to be great for all the communities, I think.
00:35:35 --> 00:35:40 That's a really key point. And I'll just, so one of the other things that has
00:35:40 --> 00:35:46 been working well in terms of being, because I transitioned in with this administration
00:35:46 --> 00:35:47 from the previous administration.
00:35:48 --> 00:35:54 So it is, you know, having the conversations with the chief of staff,
00:35:54 --> 00:35:58 Saran Cain and the Deputy Chief of Staff, Daniel Walker, and our other Deputy
00:35:58 --> 00:36:01 Chief of Staffs, Stephanie Murgler and Javier Hortzman, along with the mayor,
00:36:02 --> 00:36:06 specifically around our unhoused population and how we can make sure that we
00:36:06 --> 00:36:07 are being extremely humane.
00:36:08 --> 00:36:10 Making sure that we are providing services.
00:36:10 --> 00:36:14 We're actually, Tanya and I are going to be walking through one of the parks
00:36:14 --> 00:36:18 on Thursday that, you know, has a significant amount of unhoused individuals
00:36:18 --> 00:36:25 to try to figure out how we can provide services, how we can partner with other organizations.
00:36:25 --> 00:36:27 And the mayor is fully invested in that.
00:36:28 --> 00:36:33 Several of our meetings have been either around the education priorities or
00:36:33 --> 00:36:38 one of our very specific parts and trying to make sure that we have a,
00:36:38 --> 00:36:39 you know, a full understanding of,
00:36:40 --> 00:36:44 you know, what direction the mayor's office wants to go in and how we can, you know,
00:36:44 --> 00:36:49 make as much out of it as possible for all of the different social services
00:36:49 --> 00:36:54 that are available for individuals pretty much living at the park,
00:36:54 --> 00:36:58 but maybe they are not aware of them. That's a big thing.
00:36:59 --> 00:37:02 Unhoused and that's on all levels and especially
00:37:02 --> 00:37:06 when it comes to the youth because of course quite naturally you
00:37:06 --> 00:37:09 know that affects everything if you are
00:37:09 --> 00:37:12 a youth and you're you know you don't have a permanent home
00:37:12 --> 00:37:16 so that's that's something that's i'm
00:37:16 --> 00:37:19 hoping that you guys can get off the ground and be able
00:37:19 --> 00:37:23 to do something about especially at womington and i think i know the narrative
00:37:23 --> 00:37:29 that you're talking about so i understand tell me have you guys had any challenges
00:37:29 --> 00:37:36 as far as being women in leadership i know that could be a challenge at times.
00:37:38 --> 00:37:42 Yeah i know and i you know i know that could be a challenge because it's a challenge
00:37:42 --> 00:37:46 for men as well i mean i'll be honest with you it's not always it's not always
00:37:46 --> 00:37:51 as easy as it looks and And I know it could be hard for women as well.
00:37:51 --> 00:37:54 Have you got either one of you had any challenges as far as,
00:37:54 --> 00:37:57 especially now that you're both in these positions that you're in,
00:37:58 --> 00:38:02 have you had any challenges or do you foresee any challenges as far as leadership?
00:38:04 --> 00:38:09 Sure. It would be, you know, untruthful to say that there hasn't been or there
00:38:09 --> 00:38:11 will be challenges moving forward.
00:38:11 --> 00:38:18 Some of them are being underestimated. and then the others being the first.
00:38:19 --> 00:38:26 So then therefore comes some responsibility of ensuring that you're successful
00:38:26 --> 00:38:27 and your programs are successful.
00:38:27 --> 00:38:33 And so there can be some perceived expectations or actual expectations,
00:38:35 --> 00:38:36 ensuring everything is great.
00:38:37 --> 00:38:44 And that pressure of always being on, always being correct, always being prepared
00:38:44 --> 00:38:50 because of historically being underestimated.
00:38:50 --> 00:38:54 And if you are, you have earned, because I'm not saying giving,
00:38:54 --> 00:38:56 you have earned the opportunity.
00:38:56 --> 00:39:01 And I mean, really earned it, the opportunity to be in a leadership seat.
00:39:01 --> 00:39:09 There is that responsibility of those who come behind you, as we and Melody
00:39:09 --> 00:39:12 specifically talked about, those who have come before us.
00:39:13 --> 00:39:21 So, to me, sometimes the pressure of being exemplary can be a lot.
00:39:22 --> 00:39:24 I'll turn it to Melody.
00:39:26 --> 00:39:28 That was that was a spot on
00:39:28 --> 00:39:32 and I would add that over the
00:39:32 --> 00:39:37 years one of the things that I have probably had some challenges with as it
00:39:37 --> 00:39:42 relates to being a woman in leadership and you know like Tanya said you want
00:39:42 --> 00:39:47 to make sure you're being honest is other women other other women right and
00:39:47 --> 00:39:52 in particular sometimes and it's it's hard to say but you know I'm going to,
00:39:52 --> 00:39:56 really talk about this because I don't think black women talk enough about how
00:39:56 --> 00:40:03 black women hurt black women and how we oftentimes are in positions of leadership and you have,
00:40:03 --> 00:40:08 you enter into an organization, there's a black woman leading that organization
00:40:08 --> 00:40:11 and they're not the expectation.
00:40:11 --> 00:40:15 You're looking maybe for a mentor as a woman, you know, a black woman coming
00:40:15 --> 00:40:20 up in this organization and they are the complete opposite of what you were hoping for.
00:40:21 --> 00:40:24 And then you have some vicarious trauma you have workplace
00:40:24 --> 00:40:27 trauma as a result of what happened
00:40:27 --> 00:40:30 with you and that individual because you just knew
00:40:30 --> 00:40:33 oh man this is another black woman here this
00:40:33 --> 00:40:41 is going to be fantastic and then you realize oh it's it's not necessarily as
00:40:41 --> 00:40:47 fantastic as you were hoping for wishful thinking you know and whatnot and then
00:40:47 --> 00:40:51 of course and for me that kind of brings you around to saying,
00:40:51 --> 00:40:54 okay, let me kind of reset my expectations.
00:40:55 --> 00:40:59 You know, continue to do your job and then just kind of realize that that definitely exists.
00:41:00 --> 00:41:04 And I'm sure some of your listeners and everything, black women would agree.
00:41:04 --> 00:41:07 Yes. There have been, you know, other black women who have hurt black women.
00:41:08 --> 00:41:11 And then on the, on the flip side, constantly having to fight for a seat at
00:41:11 --> 00:41:18 the table when you are the most qualified individual in the room, right?
00:41:18 --> 00:41:21 Or not just the most you're overqualified you are
00:41:21 --> 00:41:24 more qualified than the people who you have
00:41:24 --> 00:41:26 to report to and you're not even you're okay with that
00:41:26 --> 00:41:29 part right you're okay with that you understand that but then there's
00:41:29 --> 00:41:32 a sense of oh you know this this
00:41:32 --> 00:41:38 kind of I'm not sure which direction they you know they they're not they don't
00:41:38 --> 00:41:44 understand me your light is shining too much right it's you're getting too much
00:41:44 --> 00:41:50 you know people are too excited to have you there so over the years I have definitely experienced that.
00:41:50 --> 00:41:53 I would say, when I became the Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation,
00:41:54 --> 00:41:57 the former director, a gentleman by the name of Ian Smith.
00:41:57 --> 00:42:00 Was diligent about giving me my flowers.
00:42:00 --> 00:42:06 And so I thought that was so impactful because he consistently and constantly
00:42:06 --> 00:42:08 would say, that was not my policy. That was Melody.
00:42:08 --> 00:42:12 And I was like, stop doing that. But he was like, no, it is really important
00:42:12 --> 00:42:17 for people to know that you are also a leader in your own right.
00:42:17 --> 00:42:23 And you're doing these things so much so that he fought for salary that I didn't
00:42:23 --> 00:42:25 even ask for when I first came on board, like hire.
00:42:25 --> 00:42:28 And we were so close to salary. He was like, I don't care.
00:42:28 --> 00:42:34 It's that important because black women are often looked over and they are some
00:42:34 --> 00:42:36 of the most qualified individuals.
00:42:36 --> 00:42:39 And so for that, that was not only sometimes you had the challenge,
00:42:39 --> 00:42:43 but that was really humbling to know that, that, you know, me being in that
00:42:43 --> 00:42:46 leadership position and coming on board to help was that important for him to
00:42:46 --> 00:42:47 fight, you know, for that.
00:42:48 --> 00:42:51 I absolutely agree in reference to mentorship.
00:42:51 --> 00:42:56 That is something that I do formally and informally.
00:42:56 --> 00:43:05 In my previous position, I had 12 young women of diverse backgrounds that I
00:43:05 --> 00:43:10 mentored and I call them divas diamonds because they are diamonds.
00:43:11 --> 00:43:15 And I guess before this podcast, One of them called and said,
00:43:15 --> 00:43:19 you got a second? And I was like, sure. I got a couple of minutes.
00:43:19 --> 00:43:25 And so they still reach out to me. I still, you know, look after them because
00:43:25 --> 00:43:28 I didn't always have that.
00:43:28 --> 00:43:33 So I wanted to ensure those who came behind me had that.
00:43:35 --> 00:43:40 And Leonard, let me just kind of hit you on to something right quick.
00:43:41 --> 00:43:45 You heard her say something about divas, Dinah, right?
00:43:45 --> 00:43:49 You see her reaction right there because you knew I was going to go, right?
00:43:49 --> 00:43:52 So this young lady has an alter ego.
00:43:53 --> 00:43:56 Dr. Phillips, have you met this alter ego yet?
00:43:57 --> 00:44:03 Not fully. I think like she like kind of, you know, yeah, she like showed a
00:44:03 --> 00:44:06 little sprinkle and then was like, no, no, I haven't been here long enough yet.
00:44:08 --> 00:44:13 Full effect of diva. Diva is definitely a diva.
00:44:14 --> 00:44:20 And believe me, I'm sure and Dr. Walker also knows about diva as well.
00:44:21 --> 00:44:26 You'll meet her eventually. A full person of her. I'm just telling you,
00:44:26 --> 00:44:29 you see how quiet she is right now because she knows, I know.
00:44:31 --> 00:44:34 So, very unique person. Very unique.
00:44:34 --> 00:44:40 Well, Dave, you can't bring all this up and not give us no details, okay?
00:44:40 --> 00:44:45 Yeah. I mean, they brought all this up just to be like, you'll see.
00:44:46 --> 00:44:50 You see this person that we're talking to right now? Mm-hmm.
00:44:51 --> 00:44:57 Diva is 10 times more of a personality than what you're hearing right now. Nice. Okay.
00:44:57 --> 00:45:00 And then the 10 is being nice. Okay. That's all I'm going to say.
00:45:03 --> 00:45:06 So so but diva you know but you know
00:45:06 --> 00:45:09 she has people you know she's mentoring people
00:45:09 --> 00:45:13 under the diva name so that tells you that people pay attention and that's that's
00:45:13 --> 00:45:18 a good thing so yeah and and you know what tanya i would say round up some of
00:45:18 --> 00:45:23 these youth and you know you just point out dave to them and then you just walk
00:45:23 --> 00:45:27 that direction walk the other direction and be like,
00:45:28 --> 00:45:31 Well, I know about Deva, so that's all I'm going to say.
00:45:33 --> 00:45:37 But I'm going to go back to something that Dr. Phillips just touched on,
00:45:37 --> 00:45:40 and it was something I was going to ask, and it's funny, he touched on it just
00:45:40 --> 00:45:42 before I got ready to ask about it.
00:45:42 --> 00:45:46 Okay, and you talked about how the former, your predecessor,
00:45:46 --> 00:45:53 you know, fought, you know, for equal pay for you as far as when you came on in the position.
00:45:54 --> 00:45:58 And, you know, that's something that we find with women in leadership and not
00:45:58 --> 00:46:03 just you guys, but women in leadership, because sometimes your experience does get overlooked.
00:46:03 --> 00:46:08 Sometimes, you know, you come to the table with a doctor in front of your name,
00:46:08 --> 00:46:12 Melody, you know, that that should never be taken lightly lightly.
00:46:13 --> 00:46:19 Tanya comes with retiring from the state after 35 years with with a bunch of
00:46:19 --> 00:46:22 knowledge and experience and so forth.
00:46:22 --> 00:46:26 So when you step into the positions that you guys have stepped into,
00:46:26 --> 00:46:30 there should never be any question as to what your worth is.
00:46:30 --> 00:46:38 And it's a shame that we still are having issues with making sure that women
00:46:38 --> 00:46:40 get the pay they deserve.
00:46:41 --> 00:46:45 You guys care to comment on that more? Yep. So.
00:46:46 --> 00:46:50 I, well, like I said, I was really thankful for, you know, what my predecessor did.
00:46:50 --> 00:46:54 You know, he didn't have to, and he was really, really firm about it.
00:46:54 --> 00:46:56 And so, you know, I always will thank him for that.
00:46:57 --> 00:47:00 There are, you know, there continues to remain, you know, gaps for women in
00:47:00 --> 00:47:05 leadership versus what, you know, you know, sometimes men make for the same
00:47:05 --> 00:47:07 exact, you know, roles and positions.
00:47:07 --> 00:47:11 And as you noted right there's the educational background
00:47:11 --> 00:47:14 of coming to the table with a doctor degree there's tanya's you
00:47:14 --> 00:47:17 know overwhelming amount of experience for across
00:47:17 --> 00:47:21 a plethora of platforms you know for the state of delaware so which means she
00:47:21 --> 00:47:25 has a significant amount of transferable skills and sometimes those don't always
00:47:25 --> 00:47:30 be are aren't always taken into consideration when you're talking about you
00:47:30 --> 00:47:35 know salary unequal pay and in negotiations now specifically related to the
00:47:35 --> 00:47:37 city, it's kind of, you know,
00:47:38 --> 00:47:42 really not ability to be, you know, unequal because the city has a charter and
00:47:42 --> 00:47:45 they have to follow the charter and, you know, meet the law.
00:47:46 --> 00:47:48 And then certain amount of times you may be able to go and say,
00:47:48 --> 00:47:52 hey, I want to give this particular person, we believe this particular person
00:47:52 --> 00:47:56 and this individual based on their education and skill set should be at this,
00:47:56 --> 00:47:58 particularly in our roles that are appointed.
00:47:58 --> 00:48:00 And then there's some additional approvals and they can, you know,
00:48:01 --> 00:48:02 sometimes make that happen.
00:48:02 --> 00:48:07 But I think the broader conversation is around why is there still a gap,
00:48:07 --> 00:48:10 whether no matter what, you know, area that you're working in,
00:48:10 --> 00:48:13 whether you're in, you know, corporate America, nonprofit,
00:48:13 --> 00:48:19 the government, you know, why does there continue to be a gap for women in leadership?
00:48:19 --> 00:48:23 And then the added part is, but we are expected to save the day.
00:48:24 --> 00:48:27 Right? We're expected to save the day without the pay.
00:48:27 --> 00:48:30 And so sometimes that, you know, can be a little daunting.
00:48:30 --> 00:48:36 And that has been my experience with, former positions over the course of my
00:48:36 --> 00:48:42 career is you're expecting me to come in and right the wrongs of everyone else,
00:48:42 --> 00:48:46 but then you're going to pay me less than the person who messed it up to begin with.
00:48:48 --> 00:48:51 Tanya, you have insults on that. That right there.
00:48:54 --> 00:49:00 That right there. That's my response. That right there. Absolutely. I concur.
00:49:02 --> 00:49:08 I'm about to say, Tanya, I'm sorry, Melody, if I can ask the question real quick.
00:49:08 --> 00:49:11 What type of legacy would you like to leave? So, you know, whenever,
00:49:11 --> 00:49:15 you know, you choose not to be in, let's say, that position anymore,
00:49:15 --> 00:49:18 what type of legacy would you like to leave?
00:49:18 --> 00:49:20 For the Department of Parks and Recreation.
00:49:21 --> 00:49:24 Man, you took that question right out of my head, man. I know, I know, I know.
00:49:24 --> 00:49:29 Go ahead, go ahead. That one was for me? Yes. Oh, okay.
00:49:29 --> 00:49:34 So I want to leave a legacy that, you know, a few things.
00:49:34 --> 00:49:40 One, that people remember Melody as, oh my goodness, she was the one who came in, sent new policies.
00:49:40 --> 00:49:42 She was bright. She was energetic.
00:49:42 --> 00:49:45 But then, you know, when they talk about me as an individual,
00:49:45 --> 00:49:51 Oh, man, Mel made these changes and parks benefited, parks received awards,
00:49:51 --> 00:49:52 parks increased funding.
00:49:52 --> 00:49:56 But the core amount of our limited service employees can say,
00:49:56 --> 00:49:59 before Melody got here, I made this.
00:49:59 --> 00:50:02 And when she left, I was making this.
00:50:02 --> 00:50:06 And that's unprecedented because normally some of our limited service employees
00:50:06 --> 00:50:08 do not get bumps in wages.
00:50:08 --> 00:50:12 And every consistent year I've been here, I have increased their wages,
00:50:12 --> 00:50:16 which is something that I'm really, really proud about because our limited service
00:50:16 --> 00:50:18 employees absolutely do.
00:50:20 --> 00:50:24 You know, run Parks and Recreation, right? We have limited amount of full-time
00:50:24 --> 00:50:28 employees, but we have a significant amount of limited service employees and temps.
00:50:28 --> 00:50:33 And so I really want to be known as the person who not only did a lot of things
00:50:33 --> 00:50:37 in youth leadership and, you know, you kind of put some things with Parks and
00:50:37 --> 00:50:43 Recreation on the map, but for the staff that we work with and the staff to go away and say, yeah,
00:50:44 --> 00:50:46 Mel was the one who helped me, you know, elevate.
00:50:47 --> 00:50:51 And that's kind of part of the legacy, which includes like a limited service
00:50:51 --> 00:50:57 employee who worked here for 15 years, and he is now the superintendent of recreation.
00:50:57 --> 00:51:01 And I'm proud of that because I was able to help him move through the ranks,
00:51:01 --> 00:51:05 which he never thought was possible before in order to be able to do that.
00:51:05 --> 00:51:09 And so that's really important to me because I am a firm believer that you need
00:51:09 --> 00:51:13 to grow your staff, even if that means they leave you for something better.
00:51:15 --> 00:51:22 So as, you know, Leonard, when you're in a park and your grandchildren are sitting
00:51:22 --> 00:51:28 there playing in that park in Wilmington and you see the name, Melody, Dr.
00:51:28 --> 00:51:33 Melody Phillips, the name of the park, you're going to say, you know,
00:51:33 --> 00:51:37 in your old voice, you're going to say, I interviewed her once on my podcast.
00:51:37 --> 00:51:38 They're going to say, what's the podcast?
00:51:40 --> 00:51:44 Yeah, right, right, right. But you'll be able to tell them all about it.
00:51:44 --> 00:51:45 Because that's the thing.
00:51:45 --> 00:51:50 When we... And actually with both of you. Now, we have a lot of parks in Wilmington.
00:51:50 --> 00:51:54 And they... You know, some of the names have been changed over the years or whatever.
00:51:54 --> 00:51:58 You know, we go... You know, people have been in Wilmington for a long time.
00:51:58 --> 00:52:00 We refer to the old names of these parks.
00:52:00 --> 00:52:05 But there's been some parks that have been renamed after people. You know.
00:52:06 --> 00:52:09 And... But we don't necessarily... The kids...
00:52:10 --> 00:52:19 Or the young folks don't necessarily know the stories behind who these parks are being named after.
00:52:19 --> 00:52:24 Are you guys doing what your mentorship programs or entrepreneur,
00:52:24 --> 00:52:31 entrepreneurial programs, are you guys talking about these parks that are named
00:52:31 --> 00:52:35 after people and what the backgrounds are and who these people are?
00:52:35 --> 00:52:38 Are we getting are we able to
00:52:38 --> 00:52:41 inform the kids of their history these the
00:52:41 --> 00:52:44 history of these parks and who these people are
00:52:44 --> 00:52:47 um yes so we haven't done
00:52:47 --> 00:52:50 it in like a formal setting like as you know when we're doing mentorship
00:52:50 --> 00:52:54 or when we're having some of the after school activities if
00:52:54 --> 00:52:57 youth you know just generally ask or if they say oh you
00:52:57 --> 00:53:00 know that's uh prices park we'll say that's brown burton winchester and
00:53:00 --> 00:53:03 then give the history behind it or even for
00:53:03 --> 00:53:06 our you know and it's not just our young people even for somebody
00:53:06 --> 00:53:09 like myself when i came into when i came into
00:53:09 --> 00:53:12 the parks department and they kept talking about barbara hicks
00:53:12 --> 00:53:15 i was like where is that is that and they were like
00:53:15 --> 00:53:18 this south bridge i was like i know every park in south bridge i grew up in
00:53:18 --> 00:53:23 south bridge what is barbara hicks and then i went to barbara hicks park i was
00:53:23 --> 00:53:27 like this is bradford this is breakfast park what are you talking about this
00:53:27 --> 00:53:32 is not perfect so even parks like you know Millie Cannon that has a significant
00:53:32 --> 00:53:33 amount of history behind it.
00:53:34 --> 00:53:39 Whether it's a staff member like me or individuals asked, we can definitely get that history.
00:53:39 --> 00:53:43 And we have a staff person, our Capitol Projects manager, Lenny Soffrin,
00:53:43 --> 00:53:47 who absolutely knows the full history of every.
00:53:48 --> 00:53:52 Single park across the city, whether the city manages it and owns it,
00:53:52 --> 00:53:55 or if it's owned by the state and just sits in city limits.
00:53:55 --> 00:54:01 And he's always happy to give information about when the Park name changed and
00:54:01 --> 00:54:04 why the name was changed and some of the history behind it.
00:54:04 --> 00:54:09 So, you know, it's something that is easy to get that information out.
00:54:11 --> 00:54:14 So that's good to know that you have somebody that has that information because,
00:54:14 --> 00:54:20 you know, people, old school people, they always refer to these parks.
00:54:20 --> 00:54:25 You just mentioned Price's Park, you know, of course, you know, that's what we know.
00:54:25 --> 00:54:28 People that grew up in that neighborhood, I mean, I grew up in Riverside,
00:54:28 --> 00:54:30 like I said, it's always been Price's Park to me.
00:54:30 --> 00:54:35 And when I see that Winchester Park, it always makes me smile because that's
00:54:35 --> 00:54:37 not, you know, that's not what I grew up with.
00:54:37 --> 00:54:41 I grew up with prices, you know, so, but that's great that you have somebody
00:54:41 --> 00:54:48 who can give the history and, and that history is very important because I'm sure, you know,
00:54:48 --> 00:54:52 with other parks that may pop up or names that have been, you know,
00:54:52 --> 00:54:55 parks that the names have been changed that that type of information is,
00:54:55 --> 00:54:57 is definitely going to be welcome.
00:54:57 --> 00:55:03 You guys, what I know you mentioned the Open Streets thing.
00:55:03 --> 00:55:06 I know that you guys partnered with our buddy, Mr.
00:55:07 --> 00:55:12 Tim Byard, also known as DJ Tim Doe, giving him a little shout out.
00:55:12 --> 00:55:17 That's his voice you hear at the beginning of the show, by the way. We can't keep him quiet.
00:55:18 --> 00:55:20 He made us promise to give him a spot.
00:55:21 --> 00:55:27 That seems to be going pretty well. I know that was the vision of one of our
00:55:27 --> 00:55:29 former council people, Ms. Dixon.
00:55:30 --> 00:55:32 So how has that,
00:55:33 --> 00:55:38 been for you guys how has that worked out for you guys and you know how successful
00:55:38 --> 00:55:42 has it been yes so so there's two things that happen in the city of woman's
00:55:42 --> 00:55:43 and there's play streets.
00:55:44 --> 00:55:48 That's right i forgot about that but we also partner with open streets which
00:55:48 --> 00:55:53 is you know an extended partnership with the you know entire west side grows
00:55:53 --> 00:55:57 community as well as urban bike project and everything on open streets but more
00:55:57 --> 00:56:01 specifically about play streets we are so happy that Rashima's,
00:56:01 --> 00:56:03 Councilman Rashima Dixon's dad,
00:56:04 --> 00:56:06 Mr. Ronald Dixon, has kept on her legacy.
00:56:06 --> 00:56:12 And he travels here from Virginia for every single play streets over the course of the eight.
00:56:12 --> 00:56:14 We offer four in July and four in August.
00:56:14 --> 00:56:19 He comes, he barbecues, he feeds the kids, he's fully engaged,
00:56:19 --> 00:56:21 and it's just a wonderful, wonderful thing to see.
00:56:22 --> 00:56:26 And so our play streets is one of our most popular activities over the summertime.
00:56:26 --> 00:56:30 You're literally talking about blocking off a street within like a mile,
00:56:30 --> 00:56:35 so a half mile radius, normally connected to one of our community centers.
00:56:35 --> 00:56:37 So let's say it's around Southbridge neighborhood house.
00:56:37 --> 00:56:41 You know, we're blocking that area off. We have the blue coats who are there.
00:56:41 --> 00:56:45 They bring out their, you know, portable and inflatable basketball equipment.
00:56:45 --> 00:56:49 We have First Tee Golf. They have been a huge partner over the years.
00:56:49 --> 00:56:53 They provide, you know, miniature golf lessons while the kids are out.
00:56:53 --> 00:56:56 Of course, like you said, DJ Tim Thug is always spinning great music.
00:56:56 --> 00:57:01 We'll have water ice in the evening. Sometimes our council members will add benefits to it.
00:57:01 --> 00:57:04 They'll bring out food trucks for the, you know, events.
00:57:04 --> 00:57:08 And this year, two additional things are happening. For all of our Play Streets,
00:57:08 --> 00:57:11 we have had the new fun mascot, Cooley.
00:57:11 --> 00:57:15 Cool World mascot. Cooley has been everywhere with Parks and Recreation.
00:57:16 --> 00:57:22 And the kids love Cooley. The adults love Cooley. Cooley has been everywhere. And it has increased.
00:57:23 --> 00:57:26 Our attendance across all of these play streets. And yes, I mean,
00:57:26 --> 00:57:27 significantly increased.
00:57:27 --> 00:57:31 If you think about play streets before Cooley, you may have been generating
00:57:31 --> 00:57:33 anywhere between 20 to 30 individuals.
00:57:33 --> 00:57:36 Now we're talking about 50 to 60 at a lot of our play streets,
00:57:37 --> 00:57:40 not every single one, but a good portion of our play streets events.
00:57:40 --> 00:57:43 And he's really brought a lot of new, you know, fun, excitement,
00:57:43 --> 00:57:45 and energy to those events.
00:57:45 --> 00:57:48 And then he's partnered with Parks and Recreation. He was at our Next Level Youth Summit.
00:57:49 --> 00:57:52 So those are some additional benefits. And then finally, we
00:57:52 --> 00:57:55 have our grand finale of play streets happening on
00:57:55 --> 00:57:58 august 26th which has been a huge partnership not
00:57:58 --> 00:58:01 only with the entire city council of wilmington and
00:58:01 --> 00:58:05 i just want to you know especially recognize uh councilwoman harley
00:58:05 --> 00:58:09 uh councilwoman xanthia oliver and councilwoman leticia bracy they worked hard
00:58:09 --> 00:58:14 to get us ten thousand dollars towards the play streets funding so that way
00:58:14 --> 00:58:19 mr dixon did not have to try to find a significant amount of extended partners
00:58:19 --> 00:58:22 and so though they They work hard. Women in leadership, right?
00:58:22 --> 00:58:25 Worked really hard to get that funding.
00:58:25 --> 00:58:30 And the grand finale of Play Streets is going to happen at Rodney Square,
00:58:30 --> 00:58:32 6.30 p.m. on August 26th.
00:58:32 --> 00:58:35 Oh, Wilmington, you're in for a treat.
00:58:35 --> 00:58:39 We cannot, Tanya and I can't give it all away. I'm trying to chime in,
00:58:39 --> 00:58:40 but, oh, you're in for a treat.
00:58:40 --> 00:58:43 Oh, come on out. You don't want to miss out.
00:58:45 --> 00:58:48 I was going to say, it's time to really plug that. And, you know,
00:58:48 --> 00:58:55 I know you guys can't give everything away, but, you know, I know Tim's real
00:58:55 --> 00:58:57 excited because I talked to him about it today.
00:58:57 --> 00:59:03 And he was up there and said, man, it's going to be something else at Rodney
00:59:03 --> 00:59:05 Square, man. He's all excited and everything.
00:59:05 --> 00:59:08 So I'm sure that's going to be a big event, and I'm sure.
00:59:09 --> 00:59:16 Will you guys bust in children or anything for those events, for that type of event?
00:59:17 --> 00:59:20 How do you get the young people there, or do you just tell them to show up?
00:59:21 --> 00:59:25 So normally, specifically for play streets, it's because it's in the neighborhood,
00:59:25 --> 00:59:29 so those, you know, youth and everything who live in that particular neighborhood
00:59:29 --> 00:59:32 will come out to the play streets because it's literally, like,
00:59:32 --> 00:59:34 literally right outside of their house.
00:59:34 --> 00:59:38 However, the Parks and Recreation Department does have transportation.
00:59:38 --> 00:59:42 We have two school buses, and then we have two 15-passenger vans.
00:59:42 --> 00:59:47 And so, for example, for the next level, Youth Summit, we provided transportation for that.
00:59:47 --> 00:59:50 We picked youth up from a few different community centers across the city to
00:59:50 --> 00:59:56 make sure that transportation was not a barrier for them to come to that summit.
00:59:56 --> 01:00:00 So there's definitely times when we will offer transportation via our equipment
01:00:00 --> 01:00:05 and transportation assistant, Victoria Davis, who does a phenomenal job in,
01:00:05 --> 01:00:10 you know, making sure that our youth are able to get between different locations in a safe manner.
01:00:11 --> 01:00:13 Okay. All right. Good. Good.
01:00:14 --> 01:00:18 And, well, since we're talking about the programs that you guys,
01:00:18 --> 01:00:22 any other big programs coming up in the near future that you guys have planned?
01:00:22 --> 01:00:27 I would say that right now, if you are a community site or organization and
01:00:27 --> 01:00:30 you are interested in serving,
01:00:30 --> 01:00:34 excuse me, signing up for our child and adult care food program,
01:00:35 --> 01:00:39 meaning you want the city to provide your after school program with food for
01:00:39 --> 01:00:42 free, we are still taking applications for that.
01:00:42 --> 01:00:45 That program will start on September 8th.
01:00:45 --> 01:00:49 So a lot of people see us in the parks over the summertime and providing free
01:00:49 --> 01:00:50 breakfast and free lunch.
01:00:50 --> 01:00:55 During the academic year, we provide free dinner and snacks to a variety of
01:00:55 --> 01:00:58 different community centers and organizations across the city.
01:00:59 --> 01:01:02 And so that's through our nutrition program. Our Youth and Families Division
01:01:02 --> 01:01:07 Manager, Shakesha Clark, oversees that along with the nutrition program team.
01:01:07 --> 01:01:10 And so if you are interested of your site and
01:01:10 --> 01:01:14 you would like to ensure that your site receives free food
01:01:14 --> 01:01:17 for your after school program there is an application process
01:01:17 --> 01:01:20 and you can reach out to Shakesha Clark her information
01:01:20 --> 01:01:23 is on the city's website and she will walk you through the
01:01:23 --> 01:01:26 process to get signed up okay that's
01:01:26 --> 01:01:29 like a great program I want to tell you you know
01:01:29 --> 01:01:33 if you ever need any entrepreneurial type
01:01:33 --> 01:01:39 leadership or whatever my partner is is entrepreneurial
01:01:39 --> 01:01:42 people here and of course he has a campground are
01:01:42 --> 01:01:44 you guys familiar with that mr young owns the
01:01:44 --> 01:01:50 campground in delaware tell me more tell us okay parks and recreation we need
01:01:50 --> 01:01:56 to know about no well go ahead well you know i'm always i'm always shameless
01:01:56 --> 01:02:03 plug for him all the time but he actually owns and it's downstate so it's an opportunity, you know,
01:02:04 --> 01:02:07 for a retreat or something like that for some of the youth or whatever,
01:02:07 --> 01:02:09 if you wanted to do something like that.
01:02:09 --> 01:02:16 But he owns the GNR campground, him and his wife own the GNR campground down in Houston, Delaware.
01:02:17 --> 01:02:23 And, you know, that's, you know, they have cabins, all kinds of amenities and everything down there.
01:02:23 --> 01:02:27 So it's something that, you know, you guys, if you ever wanted to do something
01:02:27 --> 01:02:32 where you do a retreat or something for your youth and wanted to, you know.
01:02:33 --> 01:02:39 You know, have them go somewhere where they can learn all about entrepreneurial type things.
01:02:39 --> 01:02:42 And, you know, he's been doing it forever. You know, of course,
01:02:42 --> 01:02:44 he's also the proprietor of
01:02:44 --> 01:02:48 Delaware Black as well for those who have ever heard of DelawareBlack.com.
01:02:49 --> 01:02:53 So just something to put out there to let you guys know, you know,
01:02:53 --> 01:02:56 there's resources out there and whatever we can do to help out,
01:02:56 --> 01:02:59 that'd be great and let you know about that.
01:02:59 --> 01:03:02 I know, Tanya, I know we've done a couple of recognitions down
01:03:02 --> 01:03:05 there at gnr in the past he didn't own it at that time but he owns
01:03:05 --> 01:03:08 it now so yeah yeah i
01:03:08 --> 01:03:11 wasn't i was like wait a minute you remember
01:03:11 --> 01:03:16 you remember i was doing i'm like wait a minute and
01:03:16 --> 01:03:19 then going i don't remember meeting you so it
01:03:19 --> 01:03:22 was yeah that was that was the previous owner
01:03:22 --> 01:03:25 then yeah he's had it for how long you had that placement
01:03:25 --> 01:03:29 um so we bought it in march of 2023
01:03:29 --> 01:03:36 so this is i guess going on our third year okay well one thank you appreciate
01:03:36 --> 01:03:43 it you got my wheels spinning so don't be surprised no no i mean come on that
01:03:43 --> 01:03:47 you know i i can't pay dave to come down but y'all come on down.
01:03:48 --> 01:03:53 Welcome my dad anyway don't
01:03:53 --> 01:03:57 listen to him believe me that's i've been down there believe me many times so
01:03:57 --> 01:04:03 but i don't know about many i don't know i've been there but anyway you know
01:04:03 --> 01:04:10 so whatever that we can do to help your initiatives because we first of all
01:04:10 --> 01:04:12 we we applaud you both for.
01:04:13 --> 01:04:19 Being the women, you know, the new face of Parks and Recreation and the new leadership there.
01:04:20 --> 01:04:22 And, you know, I know it's going
01:04:22 --> 01:04:25 to take a village to be able to do everything that you guys want to do.
01:04:26 --> 01:04:30 And Leonard talked about your legacy, Dr. Phillips, as far as what,
01:04:30 --> 01:04:36 you know, when this is all over, your run is all over there, what people will say.
01:04:36 --> 01:04:40 And that's important because we always want to know what people are going to
01:04:40 --> 01:04:43 say when our run is done. You know what I mean?
01:04:44 --> 01:04:48 And we're hoping that it's always going to be a good run, you know.
01:04:49 --> 01:04:53 And, you know, but sounding, you know, listen to both of you speak,
01:04:54 --> 01:04:57 listen to both of the things that you guys have to say.
01:04:57 --> 01:05:01 We can see Parks and Rec is definitely in good hands. Definitely.
01:05:02 --> 01:05:08 Thank you. Yeah, definitely. All right. So do us a favor.
01:05:08 --> 01:05:12 And you guys list contact information, websites, and everything.
01:05:12 --> 01:05:15 If people want to get in contact with you guys?
01:05:16 --> 01:05:21 Yes. Yep. So if you would like to get in contact with myself or Tanya,
01:05:21 --> 01:05:24 you can go right directly to the city of Wilmington website,
01:05:24 --> 01:05:30 which is www.wilmington.de.gov.
01:05:30 --> 01:05:35 And when you go onto the parks tab, you will see my name with my contact information,
01:05:35 --> 01:05:38 email, and office number, as well as Tanya's.
01:05:39 --> 01:05:42 And then, you know, you can send us an email, call us.
01:05:42 --> 01:05:46 We are more than happy to assist. If there are specific things that you want
01:05:46 --> 01:05:49 to know about a specific division within Parks and Recreation,
01:05:49 --> 01:05:53 the City of Wilmington always encourages everyone to call the 311 number.
01:05:53 --> 01:05:54 So that's literally 311.
01:05:54 --> 01:06:00 You call that and one of our team members from within the department will get
01:06:00 --> 01:06:05 you to the correct division based on your question or your inquiry for the department.
01:06:06 --> 01:06:09 Okay. Great. Great. Great. All right.
01:06:10 --> 01:06:15 So that brings us to Leonard's favorite part of the show. Okay.
01:06:16 --> 01:06:20 And this would be, this is the part of the show that's called Dave's Corner.
01:06:20 --> 01:06:22 It's his favorite part of the show, by the way.
01:06:22 --> 01:06:28 So where we ask the philosophical question or situation or whatever the case
01:06:28 --> 01:06:31 may be and get your opinion on it.
01:06:31 --> 01:06:36 So I'm going to ask this question to each one of you and I want to see how each
01:06:36 --> 01:06:40 of each of you answer it and I'm gonna start with Dr.
01:06:40 --> 01:06:47 Phillips here okay same question everybody you can eliminate any single behavior
01:06:47 --> 01:06:55 that humans do right now everybody has to stop doing it permanently no matter
01:06:55 --> 01:07:00 who they are what is it that you choose to eliminate?
01:07:02 --> 01:07:13 Single behavior. I would say when people don't trust their themselves, meaning,
01:07:13 --> 01:07:18 if I would definitely eliminate the effect of you are consistently lying to
01:07:18 --> 01:07:21 yourself about who you are and where you're trying to grow and be,
01:07:22 --> 01:07:25 because whether you believe you can do it or you believe you can't,
01:07:25 --> 01:07:26 you're actually telling yourself the truth.
01:07:26 --> 01:07:29 And so I really want people to you know eliminate that
01:07:29 --> 01:07:32 kind of behavior where like I'm second guessing every single
01:07:32 --> 01:07:38 decision I make I'm constantly unsure if I'm qualified to be in the room I you
01:07:38 --> 01:07:42 know how did I get here imposter syndrome you know if I could eliminate those
01:07:42 --> 01:07:45 things and I guess in particular for women because I think sometimes it shows
01:07:45 --> 01:07:50 up more for us I would eliminate that immediately and let us know to show up
01:07:50 --> 01:07:52 in our most true authentic selves.
01:07:54 --> 01:07:59 Dave, that right there was deep. Don't call on me next, okay? Okay.
01:08:00 --> 01:08:03 Okay. Leonard, what's your answer? Here you go.
01:08:05 --> 01:08:12 So, and Dr. Melody Phillips, I apologize because mine's not going to be as deep.
01:08:13 --> 01:08:16 But if it were me, I would,
01:08:16 --> 01:08:24 the single behavior that I would eliminate would be the behavior of people not
01:08:24 --> 01:08:30 recognizing that you're busy or that you're trying to get something done and
01:08:30 --> 01:08:31 they keep talking to you.
01:08:32 --> 01:08:36 So that would be the behavior I'm trying. And I just say, because I'm at the
01:08:36 --> 01:08:42 camp around all the time, I'm trying to do something and people are talking and, you know,
01:08:42 --> 01:08:45 Southern Delaware is probably a little bit different from Northern Delaware because, you know,
01:08:46 --> 01:08:49 up here, we're not as friendly, but down there, they're going to talk to you
01:08:49 --> 01:08:52 and they're going to talk to you and you're going to turn your back they're
01:08:52 --> 01:08:55 going to keep talking you're going to walk away they keep talking i try to get
01:08:55 --> 01:09:00 in my car shut the door they're still talking i'm like ah so i,
01:09:01 --> 01:09:07 yeah sounds like a rant but with that said i would eliminate people not being
01:09:07 --> 01:09:13 able to recognize when other people are busy okay all right all right.
01:09:14 --> 01:09:20 Oh, this one is kind of easy for me because it is a test peeve of mine.
01:09:21 --> 01:09:27 It's probably really philosophical and it is the behavior of superiority.
01:09:28 --> 01:09:37 That's good. Drives me absolutely financially because it's the root to me of
01:09:37 --> 01:09:42 elitism and privilege and some of the foundation of hate.
01:09:42 --> 01:09:51 Because you think you're better or different or above others so it spawns other
01:09:51 --> 01:09:55 hateful or negative behaviors so superiority,
01:09:56 --> 01:09:58 that's it for me.
01:10:00 --> 01:10:06 Alright Dave what about you if you can eliminate any single behavior that humans
01:10:06 --> 01:10:12 do right now everybody has to stop doing it permanently no matter who they are
01:10:12 --> 01:10:15 what is it that you would choose to eliminate?
01:10:15 --> 01:10:25 Racist behavior. We are in a society right now where, especially these days, where it's them and us.
01:10:25 --> 01:10:28 That's all we hear about these days, it's them and us.
01:10:29 --> 01:10:33 And it would be nice if Dr.
01:10:34 --> 01:10:37 King's message was fully realized. I mean,
01:10:37 --> 01:10:40 it's gotten better over the years since the speech
01:10:40 --> 01:10:47 was done but if it was true where little black boys and little black girls could
01:10:47 --> 01:10:59 truly unite and be together and and you know not have any issues not have any stereotypes or.
01:11:01 --> 01:11:05 I mean, you know, so many different things I can plug in right there.
01:11:06 --> 01:11:13 You know, when the country is being led the way that it's being led and we have
01:11:13 --> 01:11:20 the issues that we do, it'd be nice if you can just snap your fingers and make it all go away.
01:11:21 --> 01:11:29 And that we all could get along and that we all could do the things that we want to do together.
01:11:29 --> 01:11:33 That would be, the world would just be a much better place.
01:11:34 --> 01:11:38 So that's my thought. And that's where I would go with it.
01:11:39 --> 01:11:41 Agreed. Okay.
01:11:42 --> 01:11:48 So, well, that's the end of our show. And this has been a great and wonderful experience.
01:11:49 --> 01:11:52 Thank you, thank you. We want to thank you, too, for coming on,
01:11:52 --> 01:11:56 Dr. Melody Phillips, Ms. Tanya Warner, a.k.a.
01:11:56 --> 01:12:01 Diva. You guys at Parks and Rec, look out. I'm letting you know. You want to meet her.
01:12:03 --> 01:12:08 You know, so. But that's my friend right there, you know. I like Diva, too.
01:12:08 --> 01:12:11 You know, she's cool. She's cool. Y'all would get a kick out of her.
01:12:12 --> 01:12:16 But we want to thank both of you for taking the time out. We know you're busy.
01:12:17 --> 01:12:23 But we also want to applaud you. for taking on the tasks that you guys are taking on.
01:12:24 --> 01:12:26 And we know that you're going to do a wonderful job at it.
01:12:27 --> 01:12:31 So we want to thank you for taking a moment out of your day to hang out with
01:12:31 --> 01:12:33 us on News and Trends with Dave and Lance.
01:12:34 --> 01:12:39 Thank you for allowing the platform. We appreciate it. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
01:12:40 --> 01:12:43 All right. And so, guys, thank you for tuning in.
01:12:44 --> 01:12:52 We will be back with you again next Tuesday. make sure you tune in and we will talk to you then,
01:13:02 --> 01:13:06 tune in next week ladies and gentlemen for another edition of news and trends
01:13:06 --> 01:13:09 with your host Dave and Lynn,
01:13:17 --> 01:13:18 Bye.
01:13:22 --> 01:13:29 Music.