Doug Hulse

Thousands of community members who reside both inside and outside Cottonwood's city limits enjoy using the city's swimming, baseball, softball, and weight lifting facilities. Others enjoy tennis, basketball, running, volleyball, skating and soccer opportunities. Parks and Recreation Commissioner Doug Hulse says, "We are always looking at ways to improve the recreational opportunities the city offers."

The Parks and Recreation Commission works to assure that residents have access to parks for enjoyment, as well as varied recreational activities in which to participate.

Arizona born, Hulse grew up in Flagstaff and San Manuel. Both parents set the standard for volunteerism and community participation. His father, who worked for APS, helped build the Baptist Church in San Manuel. His mother was politically active, serving on governors' boards. Hulse's family includes wife Carol and sons Matt of Kansas and Jeff of Colorado. Grandson Trevor is the highlight of their lives.

After high school Hulse entered the Coast Guard, and then attended Northern Arizona University. Later he became a police officer in Arvada, Colorado. When he hung up his badge after 23 years, Arvada was the seventh largest city in Colorado and had the lowest crime rate in cities under 100,000 population. Hulse commented that extremely high hiring standards contributed to the low crime rate. "We would interview 100 to 150 people for a position. A four-year degree, preferably with experience, was required." He added, "We worked hand in hand with the community to provide a safe environment."

During his years on the Arvada Police Force, Hulse volunteered on his church board. He also taught Sunday school and amateur radio classes. Since moving to Cottonwood, he's started a second career teaching 8^th grade science at Camp Verde Middle School. He has a bachelor's of science degree in police science and administration and is nearly completed with a master's in education. Besides his busy teaching schedule, Hulse volunteers as an examiner for amateur radio license examinations. He sponsors the Camp Verde Schools Ham Radio Club, the only ham radio club for students in the

Verde Valley. "After two years, we have nine licensed Hams in the club, ranging in age from 10 to 15 years," Hulse commented.

He is an active member of SATERN, the Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network. "I believe everyone has a responsibility to give back to his or her community," Hulse said.

Parks and Recreation Director Richard Faust says, "Doug Hulse is an incredible asset to the commission, the city council and to me personally. In the realm of human commodity, Doug holds prominent value as a person to this community in many ways. His arduous pursuit, enthusiasm and vision to see the city build a Multi-Generational Recreation Center is contagious and engaging. His personal research toward this potential future possibility has been diligent and purposeful."

In 10 years, Hulse envisions Cottonwood as the center of all activities and commerce in the Verde Valley. "We will have to be prepared to provide all the needs of the Verde Valley. It will be a wonderful place to live because of the planning and forethought that has gone into developing our community. Tourists will want to visit us because we offer everything they will want or need while visiting the Verde Valley," Hulse said.

He envisions Cottonwood as a community that incorporates trails, recreation, beauty and quality of living that everyone wants to enjoy and experience.

Hulse feels that the biggest challenge for Cottonwood is planning for the exponential growth that is going to occur in the Verde Valley and city. "I have observed cities that have been able to bring growth and quality of life to their citizens and others that have brought growth and misery. We are in the unique situation of being able to plan and build a community that will be the envy of all of northern Arizona. We must plan to provide our citizens with the very best of everything," Hulse said.

Hulse believes this includes a trails system for the Verde Valley, one that would connect Sedona to Cornville, extend into Cottonwood and Clarkdale, then proceed south to Camp Verde. It would be a trail for equestrians, hikers and bicyclists, who could enjoy the scenery, pleasantries and Verde River.

Faust said, "As I observe Doug in his present capacity of volunteerism for this community, his undaunting vision will broadly affect youth and community in the near future. I am deeply impressed and proud to have Doug in a representative position along with so many other talented community leaders serving people on the Parks and Recreation Commission for Cottonwood Their dedication and service are invaluable."

Chairperson Frank Vocca, vice chair Jim Wixom, members Ann Shaw Jenkins, Bill Bowden, Jim Bostwick and Steve Fettkether make up the remainder of the Parks and Recreation Commission.

Hulse's advice to the citizens of Cottonwood is to support planned growth and development. "Do not allow unplanned or wildcat building to deface the Verde Valley. Expect and accept growth as a natural consequence of the great things Cottonwood is doing. Express your wants and desires to the city council and commissions in the city," Hulse added. "Be an active participant in the growth of our community."

Ham radio, hunting, fishing, reading and RVing are some of Hulse's other enjoyments. If he could get every community member in Cottonwood to do just one thing, "I would ask them to be considerate of their neighbors and do little things to make everyone's life more enjoyable," he said.

Hulse invites community members to share their thoughts and ideas about community parks and recreation. He may be contacted at dhulse@commspeed.net. Hulse said his favorite saying is, "Just do it!"

Spotlight on Volunteers recognizes the invaluable contributions volunteers make to the betterment of city government and the community. There are many opportunities to volunteer and make a positive difference. Volunteer today!