Stafford County Department of Parks and Recreation
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Stafford County has appointed Eugene Loew as its new Director of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, bringing over two decades of experience in public recreation and leisure services. Loew joins the county from Prince William County, where he served as the Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation.
Loew’s selection follows the retirement of longtime Parks Director Brian Southall, who stepped down in January 2025 after more than 30 years of service to Stafford County. The Board of Supervisors honored Southall, recognizing his dedication and leadership across multiple county departments, including utilities and facilities management, before taking the helm of Parks and Recreation. “Brian has been a cornerstone of Stafford County, ensuring access to top-tier facilities and recreational opportunities,” Board Chairman Deontay Diggs said during the January 21st board meeting. “We thank him for his incredible contributions and wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement.”
Stafford County is preparing to recognize individuals and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to its parks system and the character development of its youth. The annual Florence D. Helms Award recognizes those who have gone above and beyond in volunteer activities in memory of one of Stafford’s most inspiring parks volunteers, Florence Helms.
“Volunteers are the backbone of our many parks and recreational offerings,” said Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, Meg Bohmke, Falmouth District. “The Florence Helms Award recognizes those who share her dedication and loyalty to the youth of Stafford.”
Stafford County Parks, Recreation and Tourism is hosting its annual Candy Cane Hunt on Government Island on December 14. The family-friendly event runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and registration is required in order to receive the activities bag, which contains the scavenger hunt information.
Giant candy canes will be hidden in the woods throughout the island. Participants can use a scavenger hunt map provided by Stafford Tourism to mark off their finds.