News : Barker to replace Randall as VPRD Director

Brad Barker, recently chosen to take over as VPRD director in 2015, hands out 5K trophies

Brad Barker works with a young girl in the Pee Wee Mini Sports program; he will soon lead the VPRD.

The Vinton City Council approved the recommendation by the Vinton Parks and Recreation Board to replace retiring VPRD Director Duane Randall with Brad Barker.

Barker has been the assistant director for seven years.

Randall has served as director since 1985, and will retire at the end of 2014.

During his time at VPRD, Barker has worked on many new programs for the youngest participants, including Pee Wee sports clinics and Blastball.

"The Parks and Recreation Board is very happy with the hire of Brad Barker as our new Director," said VPRD Board President Ryan Davis. "He has been an asset to our department and is responsible for building many of our strong programs. We look forward to seeing what ideas he will bring in an expanded role, while continuing the proud tradition we have enjoyed with Director Duane Randall. The City of Vinton's Parks and Recreation Department is in good hands."