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The City of Valley announced Tuesday that Jonathan Neal will be joining the city as the new Director of Parks and Recreation, effective June 2. 

He will be replacing Laurie Blount, who will be retiring from the city at the end of June. Blount has been the Director of Parks and Recreation for 15 years. 

Neal graduated from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Magna Cum Laude, with a Bachelor of Science, Sport & Leisure Services and a distinguished Military graduate. Prior to accepting this position, he served six years with Munford Recreation in Munford, Tennessee, as Athletic Manager. 

In a press release from the city, it says, “Neal brings experience and a proven track record of success in the parks and recreation area, which will be invaluable in meeting the departmental goals and objectives. Mr. Neal’s recreational approach is rooted in community relations, and he will strive to create a diverse and positive recreational environment for all to feel welcome at our facilities, parks or programs.”