Henry Daily Herald

Special Photo Henry County recently launched a Park Scavenger Hunt, featuring photographs taken at parks in McDonough, Hampton, Locust Grove and unincorporated portions of the county. The endeavor is part of a partnership with KaBOOM!, a non-profit organization.

McDONOUGH — The Henry County Parks & Recreation Department is offering local residents a chance to explore local recreation facilities, in picture-perfect fashion.

The county recently developed a park scavenger hunt contest. It features photographs of objects at parks in McDonough, Hampton and Locust Grove, as well as unincorporated portions of Henry. The endeavor is part of a partnership with a non-profit organization, entitled KaBOOM! The three local municipalities were among 213 cities from across the nation named Playful Cities by KaBOOM!, earlier this year, said county spokesperson, Julie Hoover-Ernst.

“This fun activity is a great opportunity for families to get out and explore our parks together and discover all the great amenities this community has to offer — and perhaps win a fantastic prize!” Hoover-Ernst said. “The first individual/family to correctly name the object and park location featured in all 20 photos on the official scavenger hunt form, and submit it via e-mail ... will win a wicker picnic basket with service for four and a $25 gift card for Folks Restaurant.”

Hampton, Locust Grove and McDonough, in partnership with Henry County Parks & Recreation, earned accolades earlier this year from the KaBOOM! organization, as 2012 Playful City USA communities.

“I think it demonstrates Henry County’s commitment to its children,” Hoover-Ernst said in May. “Henry County Parks and Recreation has extraordinary opportunities for a number of quality programs for children, from its day camps to after-school programs, as well as a paintball course, a BMX track, and its award-winning playgrounds. The cities, too, have created a number of family-oriented events that also promote active play in their communities.”

Darell Hammond is founder and chief executive officer of KaBOOM! He commended them for their recreation outlets.

“Some of the most innovative concepts and cost-effective programs are being developed in Playful City USA communities,” said Hammond. “Cities like these three in Henry County are key allies in the fight to combat the play deficit and serve as outstanding role models for government and community leaders across the country.”

The official scavenger hunt form can be found online at www.hcprd.org, in the “What’s Happening Now” section of the website’s main page, Hoover-Ernst noted.

“Completed forms should be mailed to jernst@co.henry.ga.us,” said Hoover-Ernst. “The first correct entry will be determined by the time stamp of the e-mail. The winner must be a Henry County resident.” County and city employees are not eligible to win the contest. Call (770) 288-6020.