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KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 1
SPRING 2011SPRING 2011SPRING 2011SPRING 2011SPRING 2011SPRING
2011SPRING 2011TodayTodayTodayTodayTodayKANSAS RECREATION &
PARK ASSOCIATIONKANSAS RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATIONKANSAS
RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATIONKANSAS RECREATION & PARK
ASSOCIATIONKANSAS RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATIONKANSAS
RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATIONKANSAS RECREATION & PARK
ASSOCIATIONKANSAS RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATION
KRPAKRPAKRPAKRPAKRPAKRPAKRPA
Highlighting how recreation and park agencies are engaging
residents in outdoor activities both for fitness and fun.
Highlighting how recreation and park agencies are engaging
residents in outdoor activities both for fitness and fun.
How Can We Better Connect Children
with Nature
Water Park Boom in Kansas
Naturalistic Playgrounds
Discovering Kansas Parks
How Can We Better Connect Children
with Nature
Water Park Boom in Kansas
Naturalistic Playgrounds
Discovering Kansas Parks
How Can We Better Connect Children
with Nature
Water Park Boom in Kansas
Naturalistic Playgrounds
Discovering Kansas Parks
How Can We Better Connect Children
with Nature
Water Park Boom in Kansas
Naturalistic Playgrounds
Discovering Kansas Parks
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2 KRPA Today - www.krpa.org
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KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 3
Our Mission To advance park and recreation opportunities that
enhance the quality of life through education, communication and
advocacy.
Our Vision The Kansas Recreation and Park Association is THE
SOURCE for information which advances parks and recreation in the
State of Kansas and beyond.
An affiliate of the National Recreation and Park Association
Kansas Recreation and Park Association 700 SW Jackson St. Suite
805, Topeka, Kansas 66603 www.krpa.org 785-235-6533
KRPA Board of Directors President - Mike Buchanan (Manhattan)
President-Elect - Ernie Shaw (Lawrence) Past President - Jill
Geller (Johnson County) Secretary/Treasurer - Connie Smith
(Emporia) Aquatics Branch - Ted Nelson (Hutchinson) Park Law
Enforcement Branch - Josh DeHoux (KDWP) Therapeutic Recreation -
Annette Deghand (Lawrence) Park and Natural Resources - Logan
Wagler (Lenexa) Recreation Branch - Nathan Nogelmeier (Fairway)
Members At Large West - John Washington (Garden City) Central -
Brian Bascue (Newton) East - Brandy Shoemaker (Ottawa)
Committees/Ex Officio Awards - Connie Smith (Emporia) Citizens -
Bob Johnson, Jr. (Blue Valley) Colleges and Universities - Clint
Longacre (Emporia) Conference Planning - Ernie Shaw (Lawrence)
Professional Development - Steve Herrig (Blue Valley) Public Policy
- John Knight (Shawnee County) Youth Sports - Brent Peintner
(Cheney) KDWP - Linda Lanterman (Pratt) Parliamentarian - Steve
Friend (Baldwin)
Editorial Staff Managing Editor - Doug Vance Contributing Staff
- Bonnie Simon, Cathy Ziegler
Editorial Committee Chair - Chris Claxton (Leawood) Randy Knight
(Johnson County) Roger Steinbrock (Lawrence) John Washington
(Garden City) Brian Bascue (Newton) Brandy Shoemaker (Ottawa)
This magazine is the official quarterly publication of the
Kansas Recreation and Park Association and is provided
complimentary as part of membership in KRPA. The editorial
committee encourages the submission of articles and photos for
publication. Articles of approximately 1000 words or less may be
submitted, but may be edited for length and clarity.
Deadlines for articles, photos and advertising: Fall - September
15, 2011 Winter - December 15, 2011 Spring - April 15, 2011 Summer
- June 15, 2011
KRPA reserves the right to approve all advertising in Kansas
Recreation and Park Association. All requests for advertising
should be made to Todd Pernsteiner, Account Manager, at
952-841-1111 or [email protected].
Cover photo: GameTime, A PlayCore Company
ContentsWhats Inside
..............................................................
4
Presidents Message
................................................... 5
Around KANSAS
....................................................... 6
KRPA Conference in Review ..................Back Cover
The Outdoor Revolution
........................................... 9
Water Park Boom Paying Off .................................
11
Big Pool is a Big Plus
............................................ 14
A New Old Way to Play ..........................................
15
Hutchinson Offers Creative Play ...........................
17
Ready, Set, RUN!
................................................... 19
Discovering Kansas Parks ......................................
20
Commercial Connections .......................................
20
Putting Emphasis on Customer Service ............... 21
2011 KRPA
Calendar................................................ 21
AdvertisersBell Structural Solutions
......................................... 17
Emporia Chamber & Visitors Bureau .....................
7
Future Pro Inc
............................................................. 2
G. Farney & Associates
............................................. 3
MUSCO Sports Lighting LLC ..................................
2
Paddock Enterprises
................................................ 22
Pernsteiner Creative Group, Inc ............................
22
United Industries/Swimtime .................................
14
Please support our advertisers, they make this publication
possible. For information on advertising, contact Todd Pernsteiner
at (877) 694-1999 or [email protected].
TodayKANSAS RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATION
KRPA
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4 KRPA Today - www.krpa.org
Early in my tenure as executive director of KRPA, while
attending a conference planning committee meeting, one of the
veterans in attendance made a passing comment about the park and
recreation profession that has always stuck with me.
He reminded those attending the meeting that, we work so others
can play!
Since my first introduction to that phrase, Ive heard it used by
several others when discussing their role in the community. Ive
also adopted it when explaining one of the major values our
profession brings to each community.
Although it falls short of telling the full story, its a simple
and direct way of expressing one of the major benefits of park and
recreation professionals in each community.
What is play?
According to The National Institute for Play, an organization
doing research and compiling data on the topic, it is a state of
being that is intensely pleasurable.
It energizes and enlivens us. It eases our burdens, renews a
natural sense of optimism and opens us up to new possibilities.
These wonderful, valuable qualities are just the beginning of what
play is.
In addition, the organization makes a case that play sculpts our
brain and that play fulfills fundamental human needs.
In many instances along with schools - the vehicle for play in
communities all across Kansas begins with the local park and
recreation agency or recreation commission. We are the primary
resource for play in public parks, in swimming pools, on youth and
athletic fields, on trails and in recreation centers.
We provide the varied organized programs for children and adults
which encourage active lifestyles.
You will find in this issue of KRPA Today several articles that
focus on the programs and facilities in our local communities that
offer opportunities for play. They discuss the development of a new
statewide plan that helps children connect with nature, the concept
of naturalist playgrounds, the growth of water parks around the
state and a national pilot program underway in Kansas which
encourages children to run and be active.
We hope they help everyone learn more about how to better bring
the elements of play to your community.
Whats InsideBy Doug Vance, KRPA Executive Director
KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 1
SPRING 2011SPRING 2011SPRING 2011SPRING 2011SPRING 2011SPRING
2011SPRING 2011TodayTodayTodayTodayTodayKaNSaS RecReatIoN &
PaRK aSSocIatIoNKaNSaS RecReatIoN & PaRK aSSocIatIoNKaNSaS
RecReatIoN & PaRK aSSocIatIoNKaNSaS RecReatIoN & PaRK
aSSocIatIoNKaNSaS RecReatIoN & PaRK aSSocIatIoNKaNSaS
RecReatIoN & PaRK aSSocIatIoNKaNSaS RecReatIoN & PaRK
aSSocIatIoNKaNSaS RecReatIoN & PaRK
aSSocIatIoNKRPAKRPAKRPAKRPAKRPAKRPAKRPA
Highlighting how recreation and park agencies are engaging
residents in outdoor activities both for fitness and fun.
Highlighting how recreation and park agencies are engaging
residents in outdoor activities both for fitness and fun.
How Can We Better Connect Children
with Nature
Water Park Boom in Kansas
Naturalistic Playgrounds
Discovering Kansas Parks
How Can We Better Connect Children
with Nature
Water Park Boom in Kansas
Naturalistic Playgrounds
Discovering Kansas Parks
How Can We Better Connect Children
with Nature
Water Park Boom in Kansas
Naturalistic Playgrounds
Discovering Kansas Parks
How Can We Better Connect Children
with Nature
Water Park Boom in Kansas
Naturalistic Playgrounds
Discovering Kansas Parks
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KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 5
Well, Im about of the way through my presidential gig, and I
have to say that, to this point, its been so far, so good. I havent
come across anything yet that has changed my opinion that if I can
do it, anyone can do it. If youre reading this, keep that in mind
when it comes time for me to solicit names to go on the election
ballot!
To this point, my time spent as President has been highlighted
by two particular events. I didnt see myself writing about these
two events because, at first thought, they dont appear to be
related. However, as more time has passed, Ive come to realize that
they have more in common than I ever imagined.
The pair of events that I am referring to occurred in two very
hectic, consecutive weeks back in March. The first week, I attended
the NRPA Legislative Forum, held in Washington, D.C. A day after
returning from that, I repacked my bags and headed off for a
Carnival Caribbean Cruise. So, you askhow in the world are these
even remotely related?
The purpose of the NRPA Legislative Forum was to join forces
with Parks and Recreation professionals from all over the country
to discuss very important issues facing our industry. Team Kansas
myself, Doug Vance, Bob Johnson, and Jill Geller had appointments
with our senators and representatives to review and discuss the
impact and importance of five particular topics: Land & Water
Conservation Fund Urban Revitalization and Livable Communities Act
Surface Transportation Program No Child Left Inside Act Healthy
Communities Program
On the Carnival Cruise, there was also a Team Kansas, made up of
21 people, and we too gathered forces to tackle a number of equally
serious issues: What time is breakfast? Can we really have as many
lobster tails as we want? Favorite excursion ziplining in the
forest canopy, swimming with stingrays, or snorkeling? Schedule for
reserving prime deck-chair locations Which pool salt water or fresh
water?
Something else I remember about the NRPA Forum was the hustle
and bustle of Washington, D.C. There were people. Lots of people.
People everywhere! Tourists. Lobbyists. Politicians. Interns.
Joggers. Bicyclers. Security guards. Everybody with places to be
and things to do. In particular, I recall what seemed to be the
prevailing dress code; men in dark suits, women in dark skirts.
It was the same way on the cruise! Hustle and bustle, only in a
more confined space. People everywhere! There were just about
4,000 folks on that boat. Tourists. Joggers. Room stewards.
Security workers. Musicians. Places to be, things to do. (No,
really!) And again, a prevailing dress code; men in swim trunks,
women in bikinis. I vaguely remember the bikinis!
One other vivid memory I recall that pertains to both events
occurred while I was standing on the upper deck of the cruise ship.
We were somewhere in the Gulf of Mexico, and the only thing I could
see was water. In all directions, there was nothing but deep, blue
seas that stretched clear to the horizon. It made me appreciate
just how massive our world is.
After speaking to some of the staffers in Washington, it
occurred to me that their job of balancing the national budget must
seem just as imposing as the vastness of the ocean! I remember
thinking how desperate it would feel to be stranded in the middle
of that ocean; our political leaders probably have that same
feeling of desperation when it comes to our national debt. Just as
I felt a sense of awe regarding planet Earth, I also feel a sense
of respect for the task that lies before them.
Less we get too depressed, Ill conclude by paraphrasing a
comment made during a speech by Ron Sims, the Deputy Secretary of
Housing and Urban Development, at the Legislative Forum. In
assessing the importance of the Parks and Recreation industry,
Secretary Sims ended by stating that Parks are the souls of our
communities.
Very true, indeed, and most inspiring to those of us that were
there. Yes, times are tough, but there is hope for the future!
PerspectiveBy Mike Buchanan, KRPA President, Manhattan Parks and
Recreation
The Kansas Team Representing KRPA at the NRPA Legislative Forum
in Washington, D.C. were Executive Director Doug Vance, KRPA
President Mike Buchanan, Past President Jill Geller and Citizen
Board Chair Bob Johnson, Jr.
it occurred to me that their job of balancing the national
budget must seem just as imposing as the vastness of the ocean!
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6 KRPA Today - www.krpa.org
KRPA To Co-Host Webinar on Customer ServiceKRPA will partner
with five other state
associations to host a special webinar
Leading A Culture of Service Excellence and
featuring Dennis Snow, who spent over 20 years
developing service excellence concepts with the
Walt Disney World Company. The webinar is
scheduled for Sept. 8 at 10 a.m.
Snow has presented to audiences in diverse
locations around the world, such as South
Africa, Australia, Mexico and England and
has consulted with some of the worlds largest
companies including ExxonMobil, AT&T,
General Motors and Coca Cola.
He has authored two books, Unleashing
Excellence: the Complete guide to Ultimate
Customer Service; and Lessons From the
Mouse: A Guide for Applying Disney Worlds
Secrets of Success to Your Organization, Your
Career, and Your life.
In addition to KRPA, other state associations
also involved in hosting the webinar are
Colorado, Missouri, Texas, Illinois and
Connecticut. Registration information for the
webinar is available at www.krpa.org.
Around KANSASAround KANSAS highlights KRPA member events, news,
people and more. To contribute to this section,
please send a 125 word or less article and photos to Doug Vance
at KRPA.
KRPA Partners to Offer Unique Golf Course WorkshopRemodeling a
golf course, particularly in this tough economic environment, is a
project that must be considered carefully. Is it feasible, both
financially and demographically? How could it fit in with other
land use and green space plans? Can it work environmentally? How
will a remodel affect the maintenance budget?
KRPA will join with The American Society of Golf Course
Architects (ASGCA) and the Golf Course Superintendents Association
of America (GCSAA), in partnership with The Toro Company, will
present a day-long Remodeling University course in late September
(specific date to be determined) to address these and other
questions about investigating a golf course remodel. Members of
ASGCA and GCSAA with experience working with municipal golf
operations will craft the curriculum with the KRPA member in
mind.
The event will be at the Golf Course Superintendents Association
of America headquarters in Lawrence.
Johnson County Opens New Century Fieldhouse
Dates Set for Southwest Kansas Golf Tournament, KRPA Golf
TournamentTwo of the outstanding municipal golf
courses in Kansas will serve as the sites
for two annual park and recreation golf
tournaments. Prairie Dunes Golf Course
in Garden City will once again serve
as host of the annual Southwest Golf
Tournament on Aug. 12 . The annual
KRPA Golf Tournament is scheduled
for Sept. 16 at Sand Creek Station
Golf Course in Newton. Look for more
information on how to register your
group in the near future for both of these
outstanding and fun events.
One of the largest indoor recreation centers in the
state New Century Fieldhouse has its grand
opening scheduled for June 11. Johnson County Park and
Recreation District acquired the 88,000 square foot facility,
originally constructed
as an indoor soccer facility, after financing fell
through for the original ownership group.
The District, looking for a replacement for an
older indoor facility, had originally planned to
upgrade an existing 55,000 square foot facility,
Okun Fieldhouse in Shawnee. However, JCPRD
officials learned of the availability of the larger
building (near Gardner, in south Johnson County)
and found they were able to purchase the building,
complete renovation needs, for the same cost
($8.5 million) as the upgrade of Okun Fieldhouse
and provide much more space for activities.
The building will be multi-purpose in scope
with artificial turf and court surfacing splitting
the building and offering the possibility of four
basketball courts, eight volleyball courts, four
Futsal courts, an Astroturf soccer field area, plus
a multi-purpose room and party rooms. It will also
have an upper level for observation and seating.
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KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 7
Surrounded by the blue skies and open prairie of the
Kansas Flint Hills, Emporia is the place to get away
from it all. Catch live music or a movie at our historic
Granada Theatre, visit our award winning chocolate
shop, or enjoy a peaceful round of golf. For a real
adventure, head out and explore the Flint Hills. On
two wheels or four, it's a ride you'll never forget.
CALL 800-279-3730 | CLICK emporiakschamber.orgTEXT Emporia to
71297 (standard txt msg rates apply)
Had enough of big city life?
Parks and Recreation Offers Substantial Economic BenefitsFunds
spent in Kansas recreation and parks programs or facilities,
activities and employees return $1.70 for every $1 invested,
according to
an economic impact study conducted by Jayhawk Consulting,
University of
Kansas School of Business.
This means that spending for Kansas parks and recreation
activities
are additive, not detrimental, to the overall Kansas economy,
said Wallace
W. Meyer, Director of Entrepreneurship Programs, University of
Kansas
School of Business.
Its a statement that funds invested into Kansas recreation and
parks
produce a positive economic value and may be better investments
than
other alternatives which produce lower returns as evaluated
using the same
model, added Meyer.
The economic impact study was commissioned by KRPA to examine
the
economic benefits provided in local communities and on a
state-wide
basis. The study was conducted by a six-person team representing
Jayhawk
Consulting, an outreach program primarily made up of MBA
students and
coordinated through the KU School of Business.
In addition, the study also revealed that real estate values in
Kansas
communities are consistently higher when located next to or near
local parks.
We knew that our agencies provide essential services in local
communities
and now it is clear from this study that parks and recreation
brings
meaningful economic value in our local communities, said KRPA
Executive
Director Doug Vance. We believe this is powerful information
that
illustrates we are an industry that offers a meaningful return
on investment.
Among the findings of the report was that parks and recreation
offers
healthy lifestyle benefits to its users at a significantly
reduced cost and as
a result has a substantial impact in reducing the overall cost
of health care
for citizens and state agencies.
Vance said this is the first statewide economic impact study
that focused
exclusively on the park and recreation industry. In addition to
the positive
impact on the economy, the study also provided insights into
usage and
perceptions of park and recreation.
Salina Hires New DirectorDion Louthan, 41, started work
in April as the new director at
Salina Parks and Recreation. He
was selected from among 110
applications for the position.
Prior to his appointment in Salina,
Louthan served as recreation manager in Henderson, Nev. where he
worked
for 14 years. He also worked for the Hugoton (KS) Recreation
Commission
for three years prior to moving to Henderson, the second largest
city in
Nevada. Louthan is a native of Hugoton and he received his
bachelors
degree in recreation management from the University of
Kansas.
Louthan replaces Steve Snyder, who retired last fall after 36
years of service.
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8 KRPA Today - www.krpa.org
Highlighting how recreation and park agencies are engaging
residents in outdoor activities both for fitness and fun.
Highlighting how recreation and park agencies are engaging
residents in outdoor activities both for fitness and fun.
Highlighting how recreation and park agencies are engaging
residents in outdoor activities both for fitness and fun.
Phot
os: G
ameT
ime,
A P
layC
ore
Com
pany
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KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 9
If you were asked to close your eyes for a moment and imagine
your favorite childhood memories, most of you will probably recall
times spent outside. Maybe you recalled time spent climbing your
favorite tree, wading in the creek, playing hide and go seek in the
neighborhood or simply digging in the dirt. When our children
become adults and we ask them to recall their favorite childhood
memories, one wonders what those memories will be.
According to a 2010 Kaiser Family Foundation study, our children
today are spending an average 7.5 hours a day in front of
electronic equipment. How will that translate into childhood
memories of endless hours of texting, video games or watching TV?
This changing landscape of childs play became the focus of Richard
Louvs 2005 book, Last Child in the Woods. Louv noted that this
declining time spent in nature was having devastating consequences
on our childrens physical and mental health and well-being. Louv
raised the alarm, correlating decreasing time spent in nature with
rises in childhood obesity, attention-deficit/hyper-active disorder
(ADHD), and social and cognitive delays.
Louv wasnt the only one to take note. In a recently published
research article, Using Nature & Outdoor Activity to
Improve
Childrens Health, written by McCurdy, et. Al & published in
the journal, Current Problems in Pediatric & Adolescent Health
Care (May 2010), the authors note that the sedentary lifestyle of
our nations children is linked to rises in diabetes, cardiovascular
disease, increased childhood asthma, sleep apnea, vitamin D
deficiency and depression, in addition to Louvs previous
observations. The authors sum it up with this startling statement:
Todays children may be the first generation to have a shorter
lifespan than the previous generation.
Kansas was one of the first states in the nation to take
definitive steps toward addressing these issues for our states
children. In 2009, Governor Kathleen Sebelius issued an Executive
Order creating Kansans for Children in nation, to be led by the
Kansas State Department of Education and Board of Education, the
Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, the Kansas Department of
Health and Environment, the Kansas Department of Agriculture, as
well as the Kansas Recreation and Park Association, the Kansas
Association for Conservation and Environmental Education, the
Kansas Wildlife Federation and representatives from business and
industry and other non-profit organizations related to outdoor
learning and recreation.
Building on the momentum from national efforts including No
Child Left Inside (www.nclicoalition.org) and the Children and
Nature Network (www.childrenandnature.org), Kansas took bold steps
to create a plan to foster Kansas youths appreciation,
understanding and involvement with the outdoors. More than 100
volunteers from across the state of Kansas - including many park
and
recreation professionals - came together to develop a
comprehensive plan to increase opportunities and access for our
children to learn and play outdoors.
The KCN Plan (www.kacee.org/kansas-coalition-children-nature)
outlines eight broad goals across three primary opportunities:
early childhood education, K-12 education and community
experiences. Rather than creating new programs, the plan seeks to
build on, enhance and expand existing programs and opportunities.
The KCN plan identifies key strategies to achieve the following
goals:
Goal 1. From birth, kids engage in outdoor
learning and nature play.
Goal 2. A Kansas Environmental Literacy
Plan will help kids learn about and appreciate the
environment.
Goal 3. Outdoor learning spaces at schools will become an
integral part of K-12 education.
Goal 4. Schools will have resources to
implement green school projects and curriculum.
Goal 5. Increase physical activity and
outdoor experiences in schools and on public lands.
Goal 6. Develop facilities and programs
that encourage outdoor activity.
Goal 7. Increase collaboration between
community organizations and schools for outdoor programming and
service learning.
Goal 8. Increase access to parks and other
public lands.
The Outdoor Revolution: Connecting Children With NatureBy Laura
Downey, Executive Director, Kansas Association for Conservation and
Environmental Education
-
10 KRPA Today - www.krpa.org
While this is an important first step, there is still a great
deal of work to be done. With a road map in place, Kansas parks,
nature centers, schools, early childhood programs, community and
state organizations, local and state agencies and businesses and
industry all play a supporting role in implementation.
With a collaborative, coordinated and concerted effort,
achievement of the eight goals outlined in the KCN can be realized.
Take a moment to review the plan
(www.kacee.org/kansas-coalition-children-nature), lend your support
to the plan by endorsing it and most importantly, find those areas
where your park or organization can be a part of insuring that our
children lead long and healthy lives, playing and learning
outdoors.
KRPA Plays Major Role In KCN Plan DevelopmentRepresentatives
from KRPA were heavily involved in helping develop the KCN Plan.
Executive Director Doug Vance served as a member of the Conveners
Group and was among three of that group that helped author the
final text of the plan. In addition, Jerry Hover (recently retired
from the Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks) also served as
a member of the Conveners Group.
Among others involved in various KCN committees were Bill
McGowen (Ernie Miller Nature Center, Johnson County Park and
Recreation District), Susan Fowler-Hentzler (Shawnee County Parks
and Recreation), Jabeth Coachman (Parks and Recreation of Topeka),
James Boyd (Ottawa Recreation Commission), Roger Steinbrock
(Lawrence Parks and Recreation), Ronna Stump (Liberal Parks and
Recreation), Brandi Andersen (Grant County Parks and
Recreation).
As of April 12, 2011:
Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Miami County
Boy Scouts of America Troop 289,
Springhill, KS James R. Nemer
Camp Wood YMCA Anne Clark
Central Plains School District #112, Steve Woolf,
Superintendent
Child Care Aware of Kansas Leadell Ediger
Clifton-Clyde School District #224
Brian Pekarek, Superintendent
Dillon Nature Center
Douglas County Community Health Improvement Partnership (CHIP)
-- Janelle Martin
E.A.R.T.H. (Earth Awareness Researchers for Tomorrows
Habitat)
Girl Scouts of Kansas Heartland, Inc. Shelly Chenoweth
Girl Scouts of NE Kansas & NW Missouri Barbara Brown
Goddard High School Denise Scribner
Grant County Recreation Commission, Brandi Andersen
Hiawatha High School Mandy Kern
Johnson County Park and Recreation District
Kansas Association for Conservation and Environmental Education
Laura Downey
Kansas Association of Accredited Zoos
Kansas Accredited Zoo Educators
Kansas Chapter of the Wildlife Society Brad Simpson
Kansas Department of Agriculture Secretary Dale Rodman
Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Secretary Robin
Jennison
Kansas Master Naturalist Program
Kansas Recreation & Park Association Doug Vance
Kansas State Board of Education
Kansas State University, Research and Extension - Gary
Pierzynski, Ph.D., Interim Director
Cooperative Extension and Applied Research- Daryl Buchholz,
Ph.D.
Extension Family and Consumer Sciences Programs-Paula Peters,
Ph.D.
Department of 4-H Youth Development
- Gary W. Gerhard, Ph.D.
Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment
(KCARE)
and Kansas Water Resources Institute (KSRI)-Dan Devlin,
Ph.D.
School of Family Studies and Human Services Elaine Johannes,
Ph.D.
Kansas Wildlife Federation Steven G. Sorensen
Lee Richardson Zoo, Garden City Kathy Sexson
Marshall Elementary School Pamela Collinge
Outside for a Better Inside John McGrew
Pass It On- Outdoor Mentors, Inc.
Quail and Upland Wildlife Federation Nick Prough
The Sunflower Foundation Billie Hale
US Fish & Wildlife Service, Kansas Ecological Services Field
Office, Michael LeValley
Endorsements for the Kansas Children and Nature Plan:
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KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 11
That old sports movie line - if you build it, they will come is
a fitting description for what has happened in recent years for
many Kansas communities that have invested in building aquatic
facilities that feature water park style amenities.
Existing evidence suggests that the money being spent to build
water parks is not down the drain. More appropriately, it appears
to be floating to the surface.
Consider the following attendance increases from seven Kansas
communities: Salina opened Kenwood Cover in the summer of 2010,
replacing a
50-year-old rectangular-shaped swimming pool. The $11 million
park averaged 1,600 visitors per day in year one compared to 118
daily customers at the previous facility.
Black Bob Bay in Olathe, a $3.9 million water park built over
4.5 acres, opened its doors in 2010 and saw annual attendance jump
from 28,909 the previous year to 98,456 in its first year of
operation.
Following an expansion and enhancement of its aquatic center in
2007, Gardner has seen attendance rise from an average of 20,000
visitors to 97,650 annually over the last four seasons.
Manhattan spent $8.4 million to renovate its City Park Pool in
2010 and saw a 62% increase in attendance in just over six weeks of
operation last summer.
Since opening Rock River Rapids and its array of water park
features in 2004, Derby has averaged 118,921 in yearly attendance
the last five years. Before its opening, the municipal pool
attracted 28,436 in 2003.
Shawnee added water park features to its Thomas A. Soetaert
Aquatic Center in 2001 and opened Splash Cove in 2007 to replace a
35-year-old pool. Combined, their attendance at the two facilities
after enhancements went from 10,000 a year at one pool to an
average of 140,000 combined customers.
Shawnee County Parks and Recreation opened the gates to the $3.6
million Shawnee North Family Aquatic Center in 2006 and saw
attendance in its first year balloon to more than 78,000 after
averaging 300-500 in daily attendance in previous years.
As the turnstiles of these enhanced water parks turn more
frequently, so does the ring of the cash register inside the ticket
window.
Conversely, facility operators and administrators of these civic
showpiece facilities now find themselves swimming more comfortably
in the deep end of an increased revenue stream.
Water Park Boom Paying Off for Many Kansas Communities By Doug
Vance, KRPA Executive Director
As the turnstiles of these enhanced water parks turn more
frequently,
so does the ring of the cash register inside the ticket
window
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12 KRPA Today - www.krpa.org
A thoughtfully planned regional attraction such as Rock River
Rapids (Derby) is an example of how public facilities when properly
financed and professionally managed can not only reverse the trend
of subsidizing public pools, but add to the economic and physical
health of an entire community, said Frank Seitz, Superintendent of
Recreation for Derby Recreation Commission.
Seitz knows first-hand about the positive economic impact
resulting from the construction of a creative water park complex.
Prior to Rock River Rapids, the 2003 aquatics ledger sheet in Derby
reflected a negative balance. In 2009, Rock River Rapids generated
an impressive total of $671,000 in aquatic revenues.
The overall economic impact factor for a community of increased
pool attendance is a somewhat overlooked added bonus to the
process. Derby Recreation Commission regularly conducts a
comprehensive zip code
survey of its customers which helps illustrate how its facility
attracts customers and spending from outside the community. The
most recent survey showed that 51 percent of those in attendance
were from outside Derby, with a large influx of users (40%) on
weekends coming from neighboring Wichita.
The dramatic increases in attendance and revenue demonstrated
through recent water park construction and enhancements are even
more impressive when the negative factors of bad weather and an
unhealthy economic climate are constant detriments in attracting
customers.
The trend weve continued to see since the early 1990s begins
with a need to replace a
deteriorated pool along with an almost universal desire to build
more than a traditional pool, explained Dave Swartz, of Waters Edge
Aquatic Design. Traditional pools almost always lose money each
summer.
The new water parks offer a diverse range of amenities that
appeal to the entire family
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KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 13
The local community water park concept, an outgrowth of large
theme parks such as Disney World, Six Flags and Worlds of Fun,
first started to appear in public pools in early 1990s, according
to Swartz, and now represent an emerging trend as communities both
large and small - recognize the financial impact introduced in
communities such as Derby and many others in recent years.
A traditional pool used to be a lap pool with diving and a
separate wading pool, pointed out Swartz. Traditional pools
typically had no shade. The pool water depths could range from
three feet to diving depths of 10 feet or more.
We often use the water park name for public pools 20,000 square
feet or so in size with a good balance of features for all ages,
added Swartz.
The new water parks offer a diverse range of amenities that
appeal to the entire family such as high-tower slide concepts,
long, meandering river rides, themed landscaping, interactive spray
and play features for children, shade structures, a full range of
water depths and much more.
The dilemma of funding the high cost of a new water park
construction and daily maintenance is one of the major challenges
communities face in meeting community demands for enhanced aquatic
facilities.
The concept of Kenwood Cove in Salina was born in 2008 with city
officials found themselves like many other communities in desperate
need of replacing an aging swimming pool.
Described by many residents as old, outdated and boring with
annual high maintenance costs just to open each year, the Salina
city
pool became a difficult issue for residents and for Salina Parks
and Recreation. Despite its inadequacies, replacing the pool drew
minimal interest as two sales-tax measures to replace it had failed
in recent years.
Finally, after seeing attendance take a dramatic drop as Salina
residents were lured to surrounding communities in the summer where
they enjoyed updated and more modern aquatic facilities, city
officials took an aggressive, creative approach.
It was pretty obvious after seeing the attendance numbers fall
that we had to do something, recalled Steve Snyder, former director
of Salina Parks and Recreation. We had tried unsuccessfully a
couple of times to find the funding through sales-tax measures, but
at that point
I dont think residents had experienced the new trend in water
parks.
Since that time, many other communities around Salina built
water parks and that become the norm rather than neighborhood
pools, or replacement, stand-alone rectangular pools with little to
offer.
The city hired a consulting firm to help plan, promote, design
and construct a modern aquatic facility. In the fall of 2008,
city
residents passed an extension of a sales tax that was due to
sunset that included a variety of city improvements, including the
building of a new water park.
Kenwood Cove is, without a doubt, an achievement I look back
upon with great pride, added Snyder. I truly believe the addition
of Kenwood Cove has had a tremendous impact on the economic benefit
for the community but not just serving our citizens, but also by
inviting and including people from outside the community.
Funding the high cost of a new waterpark construction is one of
the major challenges communities face
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14 KRPA Today - www.krpa.org
800-835-3272United Industries, Inc. SwimTime Division 202 E.
Cleveland Sterling, KS 67579
www.swimtime.com
POOL PROBLEMS?FEEL LIKE YOURE SWIMMING WITH THE SHARKS?
TO THE RESCUE!
Big Pool is a Big Plus in the CommunityWhile the trend of
building modern water park facilities continues to gain momentum,
some communities are seeing positive results with older facilities
simply by adding enhancements to the existing pool.
Through creative planning and listening to public suggestions,
Garden City has been able to maintain a vintage public pool while
creating modern, water park features.
Since 1922, residents of Garden City and surrounding communities
have been flocking to the Big Pool to enjoy the waters of what was
once labeled as the worlds largest free outdoor concrete municipal
swimming pool.
The attraction, recognized as a historic Garden City landmark,
is a jaw-dropping mammoth, larger than a football field with a
surface area of 72,600 square feet and holding just under $2.6
million gallons of water. Its so large that even a modest western
Kansas wind drives miniature waves across the waters surface.
Since 2002, the facility has undergone several changes to
improve its pool concept into a water park approach. Among the
additions have been a multi-generational pool with zero-depth entry
and interactive water features, a lazy river, two waterslides, a
raft ride, new bath house, shade areas and spray ground areas.
Annual attendance jumped from nearly 30,000 in 2005 to 45,314 in
2006 and has maintained those numbers ever since.
In addition to being one of the largest municipal pools in
existence, the facility is also one of the best entertainment
bargains offered by a community. Prior to 2002, the pool was open
free of charge to residents. A modest admission fee of $1 was
charged starting in 2002 and continues to be in place today.
KRPA Agencies:Dont miss out on the summer issueGet listed in the
2011 Meeting & Event Planner Issue of KRPA Today - AT NO
COST!
The Summer 2011 issue of KRPA Today magazine will mail to over
500 event and meeting planners, members of the Kansas Society of
Association Executives. In addition to stories about planning
meetings and events in Kansas, we will include a chart and listings
of meeting and event spaces available at Kansas parks and
sites.
KRPA agencies can get their facilities listed at no charge in
the summer Meeting & Event Planner Issue.
Complete and submit the form on page 23 for each of your
facilities.
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KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 15
Sometimes old is old. And sometimes old iswell, new! Increasing
childhood obesity rates through Kansas are forcing parks and
recreation agencies to look beyond slides, jungle gyms, and other
plastic-coated structures for playgrounds. Agencies are revamping
an old concept fitness and nature focused playgrounds to disguise
exercise and childhood development as fun.
The Massachusetts Emergency and Hygiene Association created the
first sand garden of record in the United States in 1885. The
association dumped a pile of sand in the yard of the Parmenter
Street Chapel in Boston as a supervised play area for immigrant
children. By the early 1900s, 14 other U.S. cities sponsored
similar playgrounds all based on supervision, rules, and
regulations.
The strictly supervised style of play remained popular until
after World War II when children in Western Europe began creating
their own play spaces in bombed out area neighborhoods.
The adaptation to the environment sparked the idea of adventure
playgrounds in the states. Instead of traditional play spaces that
instilled youngsters with discipline, new playgrounds fostered
fitness, creativity, and independent thinking.
Todays trend in playgrounds combines the adventure-theme with
elements of how kids play in back yards. Kids are active - they run
outside, play in sandboxes, crawl under bushes, dig in the dirt,
climb trees, and enjoy every bit of free space to be found. Nature
play spaces, fitness trails, and fitness-focused equipment from the
past all contribute to a new style of play.
Why natural play space?Naturalist playgrounds operate on the
idea that kids learn best through free play and discovery. Loose
parts such as sticks and water in an unconfined space stimulate
creativity, imagination, and a sense of wonder. Studies support the
theory that exposure to natural environments improves cognitive
development by improving awareness, reasoning, and observational
skills.
However, dont expect to find a bunch of rocks sprawled on the
ground. Instead, the space is a careful design of landscape
elements, movement corridors, and sun paths combined with natural
materials and structures. Prairie Village Parks and Recreation
incorporated the upgrade of several parks in its Master Plan. The
space allows for creative and imaginative play. Kids play in a
fantasy world of their own complete
A New Old Way to PlayBy Dawn L. Harmon, Marketing Supervisor,
Blue Valley Recreation Commission
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16 KRPA Today - www.krpa.org
with play streams, crawl-through logs, shrub mazes, and
mini-evergreen forests.
Affordability and sustainability are two reasons for naturalist
playgrounds. A 22,000 square foot natural play area featuring a
rain garden, a labyrinth, an amphitheater, a large sand play area,
a fairy village, a stream, a teepee village, caves, climbing
elements, a slide, fruit trees, benches, and a discovery path costs
the same as a traditional playground that measured 3,000 square
feet. In addition, the carbon footprint of a natural play space was
much smaller than that of a traditional playgrounds metal and
plastic equipment.
Combating Nature Deficit DisorderThe City of Lenexa Parks and
Recreation transformed damaging storm water runoff into an
environmental and community asset. The departments Rain to
Recreation program reduces flood damage, improves water quality,
and provides recreation and
educational services. The newly renovated 240-acre Black Hoof
Park features a uniquely designed damn and spillway with cascading
pools and a destination play area.
The trails and natural beauty attracted adults, said Logan
Wagler, Lenexa parks superintendent. But viewing the scenery isnt
always a favorite activity of kids who are inclined to stay
indoors.
The play area opens this summer and blends traditional
playground equipment with naturalistic elements to make the
outdoors attractive to kids. They can play in the hide-and-seek
area, climb on boulders, conquer a timber fort, or enjoy the play
stream, said Wagler. It is important for families to be able to
easily engage with nature while keeping kids outside and
active.
Fitness Trails with a TwistThe old fitness trails of the 1970s
are getting a new look because of the benefits they provide. Gone
are the traditional exercise stations with jumping jacks, sit-ups,
and push-ups. Todays play trails offer interactive exhibits
throughout the path. Each station has a theme, coordinating
activities, and informational signage. Kids learn about the
transformation of a butterfly while climbing on a caterpillar,
gliding down a wing of the insect, or spinning in a chrysalis.
Its a concept suitable for the entire family. Each play pocket
features critters or local flora and fauna. Kids are encouraged to
hang from a spider web, ride on a huge ant, or crawl through
honeycombs. The relatively new trend is gaining exposure and
interest thanks to the interaction it creates amongst families as
they discuss their activities on the path to the next pocket.
The Springfield-Greene County Park Board and the Springfield
School District in Missouri collaborated on the areas first play
trail. The trail includes several play pockets located along South
Creek Trail, which runs through Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial
Park.
Combating Video Game ManiaA new option is available for
recreation agencies without parks or space in which to create
naturalist playgrounds. Blue Valley Recreation in Overland Park
installed a Playworld Systems NEOS 360 at its Recreation Complex.
Its the first electronic play system for the playground and
combines the fun of video games with explosive movement for a fun,
physical challenge.
The idea of playground equipment encouraging fast-paced movement
and activity for all ages appealed to us, noted Steve Baysinger,
Blue Valley Recreation executive director. The NEOS 360 also
provides unique opportunities for our special populations and
Boomers and Beyond segments.
Variable speeds and programs allow all ages and fitness levels
to reap the benefits of physical exercise. Its a chance to connect,
compete, collaborate, and have fun and its not just for kids. The
companys website brags that passive playtime for parents is over
and it will have parents running, reaching, and laughing right
along with their kids.
Designing for LifeExperts agree that quality play involves the
whole body. Kids develop gross motor and fine motor skills; develop
senses and intellect; display emotion; and improve individual
growth and social interaction through play. Lessons learned early
through play leads to healthier adults. Todays emerging playgrounds
borrow from the past and add new strategies for fresh designs that
promote both distinct and creative play and health opportunities.
Simply put, fitness and naturalist play areas offer more inventive
and creative things with which to play for all ages.
Photos by: Doug Pickert, Indego Design
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KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 17
Little minds will wander, little hands will discover, and little
feet will explore this summer as Hutchinson Recreation Commissions
Dillon Nature Center will open an outdoor playscape that encourages
young childrens imaginations to run wild.
The playscape came as a result of Nature Center staff
brainstorming a nature-related play area for several years.
We had exhibits and displays and trails for older children, but
not much for younger kids to do on their own, says Jim Smith,
superintendent of the Nature Center.
In 2008, the Nature Center hired a professional design company
to create a master building plan for the area north of the Visitor
Center they opened in 1994. The plan included a building that could
accommodate several Nature Center programs, namely preschool and
early childhood activities.
We saw the building as top priority and a nature play area as
the lowest in planning, Smith recalls. However, we finalized the
master plan in the fall of 2008 the same week that the stock market
crashed.
We basically put all fund raising for such a project on
hold.
A few months later, though, Smith and Mary Clark, chief
naturalist for the Nature Center, attended a natural playscapes
workshop. Rusty Keeler, a designer for Earthyplay, Inc., discussed
the concepts of open-ended, free, creative play in the outdoors
some of the same concepts that Smith and Clark had discussed years
earlier.
Smith and Clark left the workshop buzzing with ideas and moved
into fast forward motion.
Hutchinson Offers Creative Play in the OutdoorsBy Amy Conkling,
Hutchinson Recreation Commission
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18 KRPA Today - www.krpa.org
Funding SourcesSmiths top priority was coming up with funding.
Due to the economy and other factors, the Nature Center just did
not have the money for it. Later in 2009, Hutch Rec Director Tom
Cook and others encouraged Smith to apply for a grant under the
United Methodist Healthy Ministry Funds Think of the Possibilities
grant.
The Nature Center ended up receiving the $75,000 grant, with
Rusty Keeler serving as the master planner. But Smith admits he
still had his doubts on how he would raise the remaining playscape
funds as well as upkeep costs in future years.
The Hutchinson community, however, thought differently.
To date, actual cash pledges and donations total about $160,000.
In-kind donation already has exceeded $75,000.
The actual cost of completing the project has been hard to pin
down because of all the people who are generously giving us
materials and their labor that we had not
planned on. That is a good thing, Smith says.
Smith is also interest in developing an additional funding
concept by selling recognition bricks to help with on-going costs
of the facility.
Playscape FeaturesAs soon as Nature Center staff found out they
received the Think of the Possibilities grant, they formed a
playscape committee to come up with ideas and hired Keeler to serve
as the planner. Keeler arrived in the spring of 2010 and stayed for
several days, working up ideas and sketches for the site based on
the committees proposed needs and desires.
Dillon Nature Centers playscape includes several activities that
cover a variety of learning skills. Children can build their own
structures using natural materials or create a natural art project.
They can get dirty as they play with water and sand and then touch
and wade in water in the
fountain and streams that wind their ways throughout the
playscape.
Future musicians can play in the natural sound and music area,
while nature-lovers will enjoy the bird observation and garden
area.
There will be lots of little hands-on displays and activities
that we plan to keep adding to the area in the next few years,
Smith says. We want the area to be for both play and discovery. We
want the kids to have fun and get dirty, but at the same time learn
something.
Smith says he sees staffdeveloping more preschool programming in
the future, thanks to the playscape.
This area will serve as a great site for much of it, he
says.
For More Information:Check out the playscape progress at
www.dillonnaturecenter.com or become a friend of Dillon Nature
Center on Facebook.
Children can build their own structures using natural materials
or create a natural art project.
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KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 19
Hutchinson youth are finding out that running is more than a
sport its a lifestyle.
Sixty-one tweens and teens are participating in a pilot youth
running program called Ready, Set, Run!, hosted by Hutchinson
Recreation Commission and sponsored by the National Alliance for
Youth Sports (NAYS). NAYS selected six pilot sites in the nation
this spring Hutchinson being one of them.
There are many great sports programs available for youth such as
basketball, football, volleyball, tennis, golf, and
baseball/softball, says Ted Nelson, superintendent of wellness at
Hutch Recreation Commission and coordinator of the program. Its
exciting that now running can be included as an opportunity for
kids to enjoy and stay active.
Marc Trent, superintendent of athletics for HRC, learned of the
Ready, Set, RUN! program in late 2010. Trent, Nelson, and Amy
Conkling, marketing director of Hutchinson Recreation Commission,
applied to become a pilot program which occurred in early 2011.
The program is for youth ages 8-13 years old and is divided into
different age groups for both boys and girls. Each participant
receives a training manual and a t-shirt from NAYS. Ready Set Run
is done over the course of 12 weeks, with 24 total lessons.
Participants will culminate their experience by running in Hutch
Recs Firecracker 5K Run/Walk on July 2.
Nelson says he appreciates NAYS taking the time to research and
create customized lessons in the training manuals.
They took age and gender into consideration when they developed
the
curriculum, Nelson says. It encourages running and activity
through games the kids are running a lot, and they dont even
realize it. Lessons on pacing and breathing also are taught within
the activities. The program also incorporates lessons such as goal
setting, self-esteem, healthy eating, and friendship.
Nelson and Trent worked to get area running enthusiasts and
cross country/track and field coaches to help lead or volunteer
sessions. Both were surprised at the interest in helping out with
the program.
They help develop a goal of the program that running can be a
lifelong fitness activity that doesnt require extra equipment, a
playing field, or a court, Nelson says.
Thanks to a local grant from the Healthy Eating Active Living
(HEAL) Cooperative in Reno County, Hutch Rec was able to provide 50
entries at no cost. The remaining entries were from the Boys and
Girls Club of Hutchinson, who also received a HEAL grant to cover
the cost of participation.
We stress that running can be a fun and great way to stay
active, Nelson says. Some kids have the aspiration to run
competitively in track or cross country, and we support and
encourage them. But, we also explain that they can run to remain
active and healthy and achieve personal goals.
For More Information:Check out
www.nays.org/Sports_Programs/Ready_Set_RUN/ for more information on
the Ready, Set, RUN! program and other pilot programs across the
nation or how your community can get involved.
Hutchinson Pilots Ready, Set, RUN! Youth ProgramBy Amy Conkling,
Hutchinson Rereation Commission
2050 Vista Parkway
West Palm Beach, FL 33411
800.729.2057
nays.org
[email protected]
A program of the
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20 KRPA Today - www.krpa.org
The Oakdale Fountain in SalinaJesse James still roamed the
prairies and American homes still were lit by oil lamps, but the
citizens of Salina could enjoy picnicking along the Smoky Hill
River in Oakdale Park. In 1881 this 45 acre track of land was
purchased for use as a county park. Four years later an ornate cast
iron fountain was installed in the park.
This fountain was comprised of a large base bowl, a five-foot
pedestal that features the three graces, and a top bowl, all of
painted cast iron. On the top was mounted a four foot bronze
stature of a girl with a raised vase.
In 1942, because vandals had destroyed part of the fountain and
also because metal was needed for the war effort, the bronze top
figure was scrapped. Luckily, the cast iron part of the piece was
not scrapped, nor was it lost. In 1968, after being stored for 26
years, the fountain was repaired by Robert Levin of the Salina
Antique Club. Another female figure, the Greek pitcher-carrying
Adriene, replaced the original top figure. The fountain was
reinstalled at its present location as the focal point in the mall
area of the botanical garden. It was painted white and remained so
for the next 34 years.
The Salina Park Division looked at the possibility of completely
restoring the fountain to its original condition in 2001.
Inspections showed that the repair work done in 1968 consisted of
filling in the missing cast iron parts with body putty. Also, the
concrete top figure had deteriorated to a point that it needed
replacement.
At that time it was decided to include money in the 2002 Park
and Recreation Capital Improvement Program to restore the fountain.
Robinson Iron of Alexander City, AL. was chosen to do the work.
In the summer of 2002, the fountain was removed and shipped to
Alabama where a determination was made on the condition and method
of restoration. The process consisted of stripping the fountain,
replacing all of the missing castings, creating a new four-foot
bronze figure for the top, priming, painting and assembling.
Fortunately, Robinson Iron had molds for making new castings.
Also, a determination of origin was made. Although there are no
foundry marks on the piece, Robinson iron researched and found that
many fountains of this era came from the Mott iron Works of
Trenton, NJ. A Mott Catalog of the 1800s shows pieces that look
exactly like the Oakdale Fountain.
On Dec. 11, 2002, the fountain was reinstalled in Oakdale Park
and the overall cost of the project was $31,600.
The Oakdale Fountain now looks as much like the original as
possible and should continue to grace the park for another 126
years.
Discovering Kansas ParksBy Bob Ash, City of Salina
Superintendant of Parks and Forestry
Discovering Kansas Parks will be a regular feature of KRPA Today
highlighting unique parks and park features in Kansas cities,
counties and state lands. Have a park youd like to see highlighted?
Send your suggestions to Doug Vance at [email protected].
CommercialConnections Commercial members of KRPA are invited to
submit COMMERCIAL CONNECTIONS briefs, up to 125 words or less,
along with a photo (optional) of new products or services, company
news, special events or anything related to the profession of parks
and recreation. There is no charge for this space. Consideration
will be given for future issues of KRPA Today magazine. We reserve
the right to edit content. Submissions placed based on when
submitted and space availability. Send your article and photos to
[email protected] two months prior to publication date.
Tellermates technology counts coins and bills, as well as
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KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 21
By Brandi Tubb, Recreation Coordinator, Turner Recreation
Commission
What is a customer worth?
Well, it depends on who you ask. What everyone can agree on is
that its considerably more expensive to attract a new customer than
it is to retain an existing one. In fact, a recent study showed
that retaining a customer was five to seven times more profitable
than attracting a new one. The question then becomes, how do you
keep your customers coming back?
Turner Recreation Commission (TRC) believes that there is not
one particular solution, rather a comprehensive, ongoing plan. When
creating your plan there needs to be flexibility. What works for us
may not work for your organization. At TRC, we take a holistic
approach to customer service, comprised of three key areas:
evaluation, feedback and loyalty rewards.
When we introduced a new customer service plan to help encourage
repeat customers we wanted to get back to the basics. To accomplish
this we sent secret shoppers into our buildings and programs to
find out what really happened when we werent looking. The results
were uplifting, surprising and some were even a bit scary.
Every month we have different shoppers come in person or call us
undercover and report their findings back to us. Once the reports
are back we meet with each staff member that was shopped and
discuss ways to improve, and praise the positive notes. Since
starting this program, our staff has become more cognizant about
their customer service skills and daily customer interactions.
Customer Service feedback was something that we have been
attempting to gather for quite some time. We tried a comment
card box, soliciting feedback in person, and even internet surveys
nothing seemed to work quite like we intended. Thus, the comment
card board was created. Placed strategically in our main entrance
corridor, the comment card board provides a space for customers to
voice their opinions, praises or complaints in an anonymous
forum.
Once the completed comment card is dropped in a locked comment
card box (right next to the comment card board) a TRC staff member
posts a response directly on the card, and then posts the card and
response on the comment card board for all to view. To keep
everything timely, the response is posted to the comment card board
within one business day. We have found that this process empowers
our customers to make suggestions without traditional barriers.
Customers are now more engaged and are filling out more comment
cards than ever before.
To complete this plan we introduced a customer loyalty program.
For every 10 purchases a customer makes, they get a $30 program for
free; its that simple. Weve found it doesnt have to be complicated,
it just has to work, and so far its working like a charm. Customers
feel like they are getting a good bargain and our retention rates
are higher than they have ever been. Thats a win-win in our
book!
Customers are the reason our organization exists and why we
started this customer service plan. They are important to us and we
want to keep them happy, involved and engaged. Based on feedback
and retention rates we know our customer service has improved and
by constantly evaluating and improving our processes, we feel we
are taking steps in the right direction.
2011 KRPA CalendarJuly 12 .........................KRPA Board of
Directors
Meeting (Conference Call)
August 12 .....................Southwest Kansas
Golf Tournament,
Great Bend, KS
August 23 ....................KRPA Board of Directors
Meeting, Hutchinson, KS
September 8 .................Webinar: A Culture of
Excellence by David Snow
September 13-15 ..........Tomorrows Leaders Institute,
Linwood, KS
September 16 ...............KRPA Golf Tournament,
Newton, KS
September 28 ...............Aquatics Branch Workshop,
Hays, KS
October 5-6 .................Built Environment and Outdoors
Summit, Lawrence, KS
October 25 ..................KRPA Board of Directors
Meeting, Lawrence, KS
November 1-3 ..............NRPA Congress,
Atlanta, Ga.
January 24-27, 2012 .....KRPA Conference and Trade
Show, Topeka, KS
Make Plans to Attend...
Tomorrows LeadersKRPAs Leadership Development Institute
for Young Professionals
September 13-15, 2011 Tall Oaks Conference Center
Linwood, KS
Watch for program details soon!
Putting an Emphasis on Customer Service
-
22 KRPA Today - www.krpa.org
Advertising Sales & Design Exhibits
Printing & Planning Magazines & Directories
Event Marketing & Planning Direct Mail
Branding & Implementation Calendars
952.841.1111www.pernsteiner.com
www.cityofapplevalley.o
rg 952-953-2300
1
Tab
le o
f Co
nte
nts S
pe
cial Eve
nts
CITY OF APPLE VALLEY
PARKS & RECREATION
SUMMER 2008
www.cityofapplevalley.org
952-953-2300www.cityofap
plevalley.org
952-953-2300www.cityofap
plevalley.org
952-953-2300www.cityofap
plevalley.org
952-953-2300
SPLISH SPLASH
DIVE INTO SUMMER
SWIMMING LESSONS
SPLISH SPLASH
DIVE INTO SUMMER
SWIMMING LESSONS
SPLISH SPLASH
DIVE INTO SUMMER
SWIMMING LESSONS
SPLISH SPLASH
DIVE INTO SUMMER
SWIMMING LESSONS
SPLISH SPLASH
DIVE INTO SUMMER
SWIMMING LESSONS
GET CAMPY
ALL NEW SUMMER CAMPS
FOR AGES 4-12
GET CAMPY
ALL NEW SUMMER CAMPS
FOR AGES 4-12
GET CAMPY
ALL NEW SUMMER CAMPS
FOR AGES 4-12
GET CAMPY
ALL NEW SUMMER CAMPS
FOR AGES 4-12
GET CAMPY
ALL NEW SUMMER CAMPS
FOR AGES 4-12
PARTY IN A PARK
RENTAL SPACES
AVAILABLE THIS
SUMMER
PARTY IN A PARK
RENTAL SPACES
AVAILABLE THIS
SUMMER
PARTY IN A PARK
RENTAL SPACES
AVAILABLE THIS
SUMMER
PARTY IN A PARK
RENTAL SPACES
AVAILABLE THIS
SUMMER
PARTY IN A PARK
RENTAL SPACES
AVAILABLE THIS
SUMMER
HEALTHYPARKS
HEALTHYPEOPLE
Smart marketing increases program and event participation,
revenuesEffective marketing isnt a luxury only large organizations
can
afford. Give us a call to discuss options for your community,
facility
or companys marketing and design needs.
EIDEM HOMESTEAD - BROOKLYN PARK HISTORICAL FARM
JULY 26, 2008
A free day to step back in history.
GetUp&GoGetUp&GoGetUp&GoGetUp&Go
www.menomoniecham
ber.org 2010 Destin
ation & Living Guide
1
MenomonieNature Vall
ey
Grand Prix
Comes to
Menomonie
Creativity Central
See why the
arts thrive here.
Get Out!
From trails to lakes,
camping to golf,
we have your
outdoor escape.
MenomonieMenomonieMenomonieOfficial De
stination
& Living Guide of
the Greater
Menomonie Area
Official Destination
& Living Guide of
the Greater
Menomonie Area
Official Destination
& Living Guide of
the Greater
Menomonie Area
Official Destination
& Living Guide of
the Greater
Menomonie Area
Official Destination
& Living Guide of
the Greater
Menomonie Area
Official Destination
& Living Guide of
the Greater
Menomonie Area
Official Destination
& Living Guide of
the Greater
Menomonie Area
Official Destination
& Living Guide of
the Greater
Menomonie Area
Official Destination
& Living Guide of
the Greater
Menomonie Area
Official Destination
& Living Guide of
the Greater
Menomonie Area
Official Destination
& Living Guide of
the Greater
Menomonie Area
Official Destination
& Living Guide of
the Greater
Menomonie Area Nature Vall
ey
Grand Prix
Comes to
Menomonie
Creativity Central
See why the
arts thrive here.
Get Out!
From trails to lakes,
camping to golf,
we have your
outdoor escape.
Nature Valley
Grand Prix
Comes to
Menomonie
Creativity Central
See why the
arts thrive here.
Get Out!
From trails to lakes,
camping to golf,
we have your
outdoor escape.
Nature Valley
Grand Prix
Comes to
Menomonie
Creativity Central
See why the
arts thrive here.
Get Out!
From trails to lakes,
camping to golf,
we have your
outdoor escape.
Nature Valley
Grand Prix
Comes to
Menomonie
Creativity Central
See why the
arts thrive here.
Get Out!
From trails to lakes,
camping to golf,
we have your
outdoor escape.
Nature Valley
Grand Prix
Comes to
Menomonie
Creativity Central
See why the
arts thrive here.
Get Out!
From trails to lakes,
camping to golf,
we have your
outdoor escape.
Nature Valley
Grand Prix
Comes to
Menomonie
Creativity Central
See why the
arts thrive here.
Get Out!
From trails to lakes,
camping to golf,
we have your
outdoor escape.
Nature Valley
Grand Prix
Comes to
Menomonie
Creativity Central
See why the
arts thrive here.
Get Out!
From trails to lakes,
camping to golf,
we have your
outdoor escape.
Nature Valley
Grand Prix
Comes to
Menomonie
Creativity Central
See why the
arts thrive here.
Get Out!
From trails to lakes,
camping to golf,
we have your
outdoor escape.
201020102010
ATTRACTIONS DIN
ING ACCOMODATI
ONS SHOPPING LI
VING EVENTS EDU
CATION
ATTRACTIONS DIN
ING ACCOMODATI
ONS SHOPPING LI
VING EVENTS EDU
CATION
ATTRACTIONS DIN
ING ACCOMODATI
ONS SHOPPING LI
VING EVENTS EDU
CATION
ATTRACTIONS DIN
ING ACCOMODATI
ONS SHOPPING LI
VING EVENTS EDU
CATION
(952) 924-2540 www.stl
ouispark.org 1
Experience EVENTS in the Park.
Please join us for these one
-day events. Activities are l
isted in order by date.
Online registration is availa
ble for activities requiring
advance registration.
Tennis Block Party
Ages 6 and up
Experience the benefits of ten
nis. Rotate through a variety
of fun lessons run by a profe
ssional from the U.S. Tennis
Association. Bring your own
racquet or use one of ours.
Door prizes will be awarded
.
Saturday, May 17, 11:30 a.m
. 1 p.m.
Aquila tennis courts, 3110 Xyl
on Ave. S.
Free Activity # ____
Registration deadline: May 12
Park & Run Fun Runs
All ages
Come join us for a 5K family-
friendly run or try the youth
Almost-a-Mile. Both courses
travel along paved city trails
and around lakes before finish
ing at the Veterans Memoria
l
Amphitheater in Wolfe Park.
All proceeds support the St.
Louis Park Youth Scholarship
Fund. Registrants receive a
T-shirt and goodie bag. Park &
Run is generously sponsored
by Park Nicollet Heart and Va
scular Center, Excelsior &
Grand, Sams Club and Citizen
s Independent Bank.
Sunday, May 18
Registration begins at 8 a.m.
$5 per person
Almost-a-Mile Activity # ___
_
Starts at 9 a.m.
$15 in advance
/ $18 on day of race
5K Activity # ____
5K run starts at 9:15 a.m.
Wolfe Park, 37
00 Monterey Drive
Registration deadline: 8:45 a.m
. on race day
Special Events
20th Annual Kiwanis Kite
Fly
All ages
Pack a picnic lunch, bring yo
ur lawn
chairs and watch the kites ta
ke flight.
Or, bring your kite and fly it
with
members of the Minnesota K
ite Society.
Saturday, April 19, Noon -
4 p.m.
Louisiana Oaks Park, 3400 L
ouisiana Ave. S.
Free no registration requir
ed
Earth Day and Arbor Day
Open House
All ages
Get face to face with a live ra
ptor as you celebrate the
Earth. Visit with local organ
izations to learn simple ways
to make a big impact on our
planet. Make a difference b
y
planting trees or picking up
litter. The interactive musica
l
group Kidtime with Rachae
l will be performing.
Refreshments provided. Brin
g a lunch and stick around
for a showing of An Inconv
enient Truth at 12:30 p.m.
See movie description on pag
e __. This event is co-
sponsored by Waste Managem
ent.
Saturday, April 26, 10 a.m.
- noon
Westwood Hills Nature Cent
er, 8300 W. Franklin Ave.
Free no registration requir
ed
Mothers Day Open House
All ages (children must be a
ccompanied by a paid adult
)
Celebrate Mom! Bring her to
the nature center and plant
a pot of flowers to take home
. Lead her on a spring plants
scavenger hunt in search of b
eautiful spring wildflowers.
Treat her to a sundae that is
out of this world. Come and
enjoy Moms special day. Pro
gram is open-house style.
Sunday, May 11, 1 p.m. - 4
p.m.
Westwood Nature Center, 830
0 W. Franklin Ave.
$4 per person (resident) / $5 (n
on-resident)
Activity #____
Registration deadline: when p
rogram is filled
www.stlouispark.org
APRIL-AUGUST 2008
INSIDE
18 St. Louis Park
Aquatic Park
22 Westwood Hills
Nature Center
36 The Rec Center Experience
RECREATION in the Park.
Parks & Recreation
Proud member of MSAE, MAGC and MRPA.
KRPA Today MagazineMeeting Space Form for Summer Issue 2011
The Summer 2011 issue of KRPA Today magazine will mail to over
500 event and meeting planners, members of the Kansas Society of
Association Executives. In addition to stories about planning
meetings and events in Kansas, we will run a chart and listings of
meeting and event spaces available at Kansas parks and sites.
Please complete this form to have your facility(ies) listed in
the Summer 2011 Meeting Planning issue. You can submit one for each
facility you have. When completed, print and fax to (952) 841-3460
or mail to: Pernsteiner Creative, 7841 Wayzata Blvd, #100,
Minneapolis, MN 55426. You may also complete online at
www.pernsteiner.com/meetingspaceform.html
Optional: Submit a high quality photo of your space to:
[email protected]. Forms/photos due by: Friday, June 10, 2011
for inclusion in the summer issue.
Questions? Call Todd Pernsteiner at (952) 841-1111 or email
[email protected].
Community/Organization:
On Site Catering? Yes No
Open Catering Yes No
Kitchen Rental Yes No
Number of Meeting Room(s) Available ________________________
Max Meeting Capacity - Classroom Style ___________ # of
Attendees
Max Meeting Capacity - Theater Style _____________ # of
Attendees
Max Meeting Capacity Total ______________________ # of
Attendees
Cocktail Reception Capacity ______________________ # of
Attendees
Convention/Exhibit Hall Yes No
Convention/Exhibit 10x10 Booth Capacity _____________ # of
Booths
Alcohol Permitted Yes No
On Site AV Rental Yes No
On Site Maintenance Yes No
Pool/Water Park Rental Yes No
Pool Capacity # of People
Outdoor Space Rentals Yes No
Amphitheater Rental Yes No
Amphitheater Seating Capacity ______________________ # of
People
Indoor Theater/Performing Arts Center Yes No
Theater Seating Capacity ____________________________ # of
People
Floor Plans available online Yes No
Contact (will not print in magazine)
____________________________
Contact Phone (include area code)
____________________________
Fax ________________________________________________________
Email
_______________________________________________________
Website ____________________________________________________
Mailing Address
_____________________________________________
Mailing Address
_____________________________________________
City _______________________________ State ____ Zip ________
-
KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 23
Reach out to recreation and park professionals for as little as
18* per person.
TodayKANSAS RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATION
KRPA
For advertising information, call Todd at (877) 694-1999 or
email [email protected].
Each issue is distributed to over
1,000 professional recreation and park
professionals, as well as 100 commercial
KRPA members, from throughout Kansas.
The Summer 2011 issue will be a special
Meeting & Event planning issue and mail
to over 500 meeting and event planner
members of the Kansas Association of
Association Executives. Dont miss out!
Advertising Rates Width x Height 1x 2x 3x 4x Dimensions Ad Rate
Ad Rate Ad Rate Ad Rate
A) Full Page 7.875" wide x 10" high $850 $800 $750 $700
B) Inside Front Cover 8.5" wide x 11" high (add .125" bleed)
$1,000 $900 $850 $800
C) Inside Back Cover 8.5" wide x 11" high (add .125" bleed)
$1,000 $900 $850 $800
D) Back Cover 7.875" wide x 8.25" high $1,200 $1,150 $1,100
$1,000
E) 1/2 Page Horizontal 7.875 wide x 4.75 high $600 $550 $500
$475
F) 1/2 Page Vertical 3.5 wide x 10 high $600 $550 $500 $475
G) 1/3 Page Vertical 2.5 wide x 10 high $500 $450 $400 $350
H) 1/3 Page Island 5.1875 wide x 4.75 high $500 $450 $400
$350
I) 1/4 Page 3.5 wide x 4.75 high $400 $375 $300 $250
J) 1/8 Page 3.5 wide x 2.325 high $350 $325 $250 $200
*Based on 4x rate for 1/8 page ad with distribution to over
1,100 readers.
ABCK
DE
F
I IJ
G
H
Non-KRPA member - add 10% to these published rates.
ALL ADS ARE FULL COLOR
KRPA Today - www.krpa.org 1
SPRING 2011SPRING 2011SPRING 2011SPRING 2011SPRING 2011SPRING
2011SPRING 2011
TodayTodayTodayTodayTodayKaNSaS RecRea
tIoN & PaRK aSSocIatIoN
KaNSaS RecReatIoN & PaRK aS
SocIatIoN
KaNSaS RecReatIoN & PaRK aS
SocIatIoN
KaNSaS RecReatIoN & PaRK aS
SocIatIoN
KaNSaS RecReatIoN & PaRK aS
SocIatIoN
KaNSaS RecReatIoN & PaRK aS
SocIatIoN
KaNSaS RecReatIoN & PaRK aS
SocIatIoN
KaNSaS RecReatIoN & PaRK aS
SocIatIoNKRPAKRPAKRPAKRPAKRPAKRPAKRPA
Highlighting how recreation and par
k agencies
are engaging residents in outdoor ac
tivities
both for fitness and fun.
Highlighting how recreation and par
k agencies
are engaging residents in outdoor ac
tivities
both for fitness and fun.
How Can We Better
Connect Children
with Nature
Water Park Boom
in Kansas
Naturalistic
Playgrounds
Discovering
Kansas Parks
How Can We Better
Connect Children
with Nature
Water Park Boom
in Kansas
Naturalistic
Playgrounds
Discovering
Kansas Parks
How Can We Better
Connect Children
with Nature
Water Park Boom
in Kansas
Naturalistic
Playgrounds
Discovering
Kansas Parks
How Can We Better
Connect Children
with Nature
Water Park Boom
in Kansas
Naturalistic
Playgrounds
Discovering
Kansas Parks
Advertising Deadlines:
Summer - June 15, 2011
Fall - September 15, 2011
Winter - December 15, 2011
Spring - April 15, 2012
-
TodayKANSAS RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATION
KRPA
Kansas Recreation and Park Association 700 SW Jackson St., Suite
805 Topeka, Kansas 66603
Brad Delay (left) of Overland Park Park and Recreation and KRPA
President Jill Geller (right) present Jack Kline (center) with his
Hall of Fame Award.
Travis Scheele (left) of Salina Parks and Recreation along with
KRPA President Jill Geller (right) present Steve Snyder (center)
with his Hall of Fame Award
KRPA President Jill Geller (left) presented the BlueCHIP Award
for medium size communities to Amy Conkling, accepting on behalf of
Hutchinson Recreation Commission
KRPA President Jill Geller (left) presented the BlueCHIP Award
for large size communities to Roger Steinbrock, accepting on behalf
of Lawrence Parks and Recreation
Toyla Frondorf (left) of Hutchinson Recreation Commission
presented the Distinguished Volunteer Award to Opal Wilson. At
right is KRPA President Jill Geller.
Betty Zeka (left) of Hutchinson Recreation Commission and KRPA
President Jill Geller (right) present the Distinguished New
Professional Award to Amy Conkling (center) of Hutchinson
Recreation Commission.
KRPA Executive Director Doug Vance (left) and KRPA President
Jill Geller (right) presented the Distinguished Public Service
Award to Billie Hall (center) and the Sunflower Foundation
Bill Maasen (center) of Johnson County Park and Recreation
District receives the Distinguished Professional Award from Mike
Ray and KRPA President Jill Geller, both from Johnson County Park
and Recreation District
2011 KRPA Conference & Trade Show In Review
Gary Ristow (left) of Lenexa Parks and Recreation along with
Jill Geller (right) present the Distinguished Commission Member to
Nancy Klunder (center).