OPELIKA – Opelika Parks and Recreation brought home three awards from the Feb. 6 Alabama Recreation and Parks Association (ARPA) conference in Orange Beach. Director Sam Bailey was awarded the Jim Spain Professional of the Year Award. This award is named for one of the most respected and influential parks and recreation professionals to have ever worked in Alabama. It is the highest honor that an ARPA member can receive. The recipient is chosen by former Jim Spain Award winners and signifies respect from some of the most distinguished professionals from around the state of Alabama.