Missouri Parks & Recreation Magazine Spring 2015

MissouriParks & Recreation

sPriNG 2015

Official publication of the Missouri Park & Recreation Association

18.5 Million People Visited Missouri State Parks in 2014

Partnerships in O’Fallon Make a Positive Impact

CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS &

2015 AwARd Winners

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TABLe OF COnTenTs President’s Letter ............................................................................... 5 Announcements .............................................................................. 6-7

Welcome New Members ................................................................... 8

Visits to Missouri State Parks Reach a New High .............................9

Blue Springs Fieldhouse Opening this Fall ................................10-11

O’Fallon’s Partnerships Make a Positive Impact ........................12-13

World’s Largest Swimming Lesson ..................................................14

Legisltative Action Day ......................................................................15

2015 MPRA Conference Highlights ........................................... 16-23

Recreation News & Updates ......................................................24-25

Have You Considered D-School? ................................................... 26

Can MPRA Make a Difference…Half Way Around the World? ... 27

ADVerTiser inDeX

Bag Spot ............................................................................Back CoverCunningham Recreation ...................................................................13Missouri Propane Education & Research Council ......................... 9Most Dependable Fountains ............................. Inside Front CoverPush Pedal Pull ................................................................................... 3RJ Thomas Mfg. Co., Inc. ................................................................ 25Worlds of Fun / Oceans of Fun ......................................................... 5

Thank you to Musco Lighting, our Corporate Sponsor.

On the cover: The Bay, Kansas City, MO. Photo submitted by Kansas City Parks and Recreation

The Musco Lighting Building 2018 william Street Jefferson City, MO 65109-1186

Phone: 573-636-3828 Fax: 573-635-7988 www.mopark.org

Managing Editors Jan Neitzert, CPRP, CAE Executive Director [email protected]

Gary Gates, CPRP Assistant Executive Director [email protected]

Sarah Veile Membership and Marketing Specialist [email protected]

advErtising/dEsign/Production

Pernsteiner Creative Group (952) 841-111 [email protected]

Missouri Parks & Recreation ©2015. The official publication of the Missouri Park & Recreation Association, an affiliate of the National Recreation & Park Association. The magazine is included in annual membership dues.

We need your contributions!

Missouri Parks & Recreation magazine is composed, in large part, from submitted articles and photos. We rely on your input to produce a successful publication. Please send articles, news and high-resolution photos to Sarah Veile at [email protected].

Advertise in MISSOURI magazine.

For advertising information, email Todd Pernsteiner at [email protected] or call (952) 841-1111.

Deadlines:

Deadlines for articles, photos and advertisements are:

Fall – August 15, 2015 Winter – November 15, 2015 Spring – February 15, 2016

MissouriParks & Recreation

The Missouri Park & Recreation Association will comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by providing reasonable accommodations for our meetings, events and in our services when they are requested. Please make your accommodation request at least 72 hours in advance by calling our office at (573) 636-3828.

4 Missouri Parks and Recreation • www.mopark.org

MPra caLEndar• Northwest Region Lunch & Learn, April 24,

Platte County

• Board Meeting, June 12, Jefferson City

• Northwest Region Golf Tournament, July 20, Blue Springs

• Student Workshop, September 27-28, Lake Ozark

• NRPA Congress, September 15-17, Las Vegas, NV

• Certified Playground Safety Inspector Course, November 3-5

Spring 2015 • Missouri Parks & Recreation 5

dear Members,

Another conference has come and gone, and as always, I feel rejuvenated, ready to tackle the challenges I will face in the upcoming year.

The theme for this year’s conference was “State of Health and Happiness,’’ and we were challenged by the dynamic keynote speaker, Mark Fenton, to apply parks and recreation principles in all areas of community development to boost health, economic vibrancy, environmental sustainability, and overall quality of life.

we all probably have a walgreen’s in our community - you know, “at the corner of Happy and Healthy.” If walgreen’s are at the corner of Happy and Healthy, our local, regional and state parks should be at the CENTER of Happy and Healthy! we need to be better advocates of the benefits of parks and recreation and the difference our profession makes in the health and wellness of our communities.

Last year, NRPA announced the Commit to Health campaign initiative to get kids healthy by implementing standards for healthy eating and physical activity at parks and recreation program sites. Is this campaign making a difference in communities across America? Yes, it is. during its inaugural year, 486 parks and recreation program sites pledged to implement the Healthy Eating and Physical Activity (HEPA) standards, and 51,382 children now have improved access to healthy foods and increased opportunities for physical activity.

The Commit to Health initiative is just one measurable example of how parks and recreation agencies can make a difference in the health and wellness in our communities. Jefferson City Parks and Recreation has implemented several healthy initiatives within the past couple of years that have been successful. we now offer healthy food options at all our concession stands. we partner with the Cole County Health department and the CeMO weCan Coalition to offer the “Kids in the Kitchen” program to area schools serving kids from low income families. we have started several community walking programs, and one participant lost over 40 pounds and is now competing in half marathons on a regular basis. what are you doing in your community to make people healthy and happy? I encourage you to send MPRA your “health and happiness” stories to be featured in an upcoming article in the Missouri Parks and Recreation magazine.

Have a great summer everyone!

Sincerely, Phil

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

By Phil Stiles, MPRA Board President

Worlds of Fun & Oceans of Fun — one park, one price, twice the thrills...

where guests enjoy all 235-acres of rides and slides. Worlds of Fun amusement park features over 100 family rides, thrill rides, waterslides,

shows, and attractions including seven world-class roller coasters. Plus the Midwest’s largest

Halloween event in September and October.

Visit participating Missouri Park and Recreation locations for a low cost Good Any Day ticket!

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NEW in 2015Splash Island


Great Rivers Greenway adds Greenway Operations Manager

Great Rivers Greenway announces the addition of Ben Grossman, of O’Fallon, Mo., to the park and trail district’s growing team. Hired in October, Grossman is working with other staff to make the St. Louis region an even better place to live.

As greenway operations manager, Grossman collaborates with various partners, including municipalities, nonprofits, and volunteers, to ensure a high quality user experience for those

out on the trails. He also works with Great Rivers Greenway project managers to plan and design greenways that are easier and less costly to maintain and care for.

Grossman is a Certified Arborist and Missouri Master Naturalist. Prior to joining the Great Rivers Greenway team, he worked for more than 12 years as a Natural Resource Supervisor at St. Charles County Parks and Recreation.

Grossman earned his Bachelor of Science in Forestry at Southern Illinois University Carbondale and his Master of Science in Forestry at the University of Missouri-Columbia. He has been recognized for his excellence in the field of Arboriculture and serves on the Missouri Community Forestry Council.

St. Louis County Parks promotes Marvin Anderson

St. Louis County Parks is excited to announce the promotion of Marvin Anderson to Recreation Complex Manager of the St. Vincent Community Center (STV). Anderson previously served as the Recreation Supervisor at STV, which is situated in a struggling area of North St. Louis County with generally low income levels among its residents. during his time in that position, he always looked for innovative ways to partner with other organizations, keeping costs down for programs and events.

Marvin is well-known for his tireless work ethic, exemplary service, creativity, long-term vision and compassion and was recently awarded the 2015 MPRA Southeast Region Outstanding Young Professional Award.

Marvin is also the proud father of three-year-old twins, Mason and McKinley.

Jefferson City welcomes New Park Planner

Callie Weber has recently joined the Jefferson City department of Parks, Recreation & Forestry as their new Park Planner. Callie received a Bachelors of Science in Geography with an emphasis in geographic information sciences from western Michigan University in 2012 and completed a certificate in database management from the University of washington’s

Continuing Education in 2013. She is responsible for maintaining the parks and recreation GIS layers, collecting GPS data on park facilities, inventorying park structures, performing asset management for park facilities, and providing planning support to senior level planning staff and the general public.

Everything you need to know about access during CityArchRiver constructionGreat Rivers Greenway, the regional parks and trails district, began construction on the central riverfront in November 2013 as part of the CityArchRiver project. The roadway is

being elevated 2.5 feet to eliminate the majority of flooding occurrences that shut down the riverfront each year. The 1.5-mile stretch will also receive enhanced lighting, security, green space and separate biking and

accessible walking paths. It will connect to pathways being built around the perimeter of the Arch grounds, and those sloping downward to the river, offering a more accessible alternative to the grand staircase.

Complete directions for getting around during Arch grounds improvements (including maps) can be found at http://www.cityarchriver.org/construction. Parking information on the numerous garages downtown that serve the Arch grounds and other downtown attractions can be found at http://getaroundstl.com/attractions/parking/.

As improvements continue, residents and tourists can visit riverfront attractions, the Arch, Old Courthouse, and the historic Laclede’s Landing throughout the remainder of the CityArchRiver project construction. Contractors are looking forward to finishing the project this fall so people can fully enjoy the riverfront.

ANNOUNCEMENTS


Youth Sports Administrator earns Professional Certification

Missy Morarity recently joined recreation professionals from across the country by successfully completing the Academy for Youth Sports Administrators online program.

Missy is the recreation program supervisor of Jefferson City Parks, Recreation & Forestry. By attending the Academy, she earned the professional title of Certified Youth Sports Administrator (CYSA) from the National Alliance

for Youth Sports (NAYS).

The Academy for Youth Sports Administrators is a comprehensive certification program that offers cutting-edge information on critical topics for youth sports administrators today. The Academy’s primary goal is to provide attendees with a foundation, tools and resources needed to positively impact the youth sports experience for all children in their communities.

The professional youth sports administrator is charged with ensuring that every child has a quality youth sports experience.

Branson welcomes Holly MullenHolly Mullen recently joined the Branson Parks & Recreation department as a Recreation Specialist II. She oversees a number of programs including adult and youth sports, summer day camp, swim team, and special events. She received her bachelor degree in recreation, sport, and park administration from Missouri State University with a minor in communications. She was an intern at the RecPlex for two summers during college. Holly and her family

have returned to Branson after two years in Cocoa Beach, Florida where she was a Recreation Program Coordinator with Brevard County Parks & Recreation.

Blue Springs Parks & Recreation welcomes Heather Reynolds

The City of Blue Springs has added Heather Reynolds to its team in the position of Recreation Supervisor. Heather comes to the Blue Springs Parks & Recreation department from the Kansas City, KS public schools where she worked at F.L. Schlagle Library to provide science, nature, and outdoor education opportunities. Her new responsibilities include the planning, organization, and supervision of general recreation programs in

the areas of day camps for youth, instructional classes, and community special events.

Lee’s Summit Parks & Recreation hires new employees

Lee’s Summit Parks & Recreation recently hired Devin Blazek as their Aquatics Coordinator. devin grew up in Lenexa, KS and graduated from Saint Thomas Aquinas High School. He then attended Benedictine College on academic scholarship where he played rugby and volunteered as a track and field coach for the local middle school. He graduated with a Bachelor

of Arts in Physical Education with a focus on strength and conditioning.

Following his graduation from Benedictine College, devin gained national certification as a personal trainer and strength and conditioning specialist. He worked as a full time personal trainer, focusing on aquatic based training, then transitioned into a management position in North Kansas City overseeing operations for multiple athletic facilities.

devin is an accomplished U.S. soccer official, appearing often in men’s and women’s professional matches and NCAA playoff games. In his free time, devin can be found in the Member’s Stands at Sporting Kansas City games. devin says, “I’ve always been the kind of person to seek out new and exciting challenges. I’m grateful to the City of Lee’s Summit for providing me with the opportunity to grow and utilize my skills in a fun and friendly environment.”

José Ruiz says he is excited to serve Lee’s Summit and the members of Legacy Park Community Center as the new Legacy Park Community Center Assistant Manager. José currently resides in Belton, MO with his wife and two daughters. He attended Avila University as a student-athlete playing baseball and earned his bachelors degree in sports science. After

undergrad he went on to work for the YMCA of Greater Kansas City for six years. In 2013, José completed his masters in physical education, sport and exercise science, and nutrition. After graduate school he became an adjunct instructor at Avila University and most recently served as General Manager for a group personal training studio.

In his free time he enjoys anything that gets the body moving: lifting weights, running, disc golf, squash, basketball and going to parks to play with his family. Two interesting, fun facts about José: His legal name is Joseph but he decided to go by José in grade school because it was the Spanish translation. He is Hispanic and thought it was a better baseball name. José also appeared on America’s Funniest Home Videos as an eight year old who fell asleep in a dog house, wearing Ninja Turtle PJs.

ANNOUNCEMENTS


WELCOME

welcome to Our Newest MPRA Members!

Corporate Members Cameron Smith, Olsen Associatesdave wiecher, Capri PoolsKristy deGuire, dG2 design Laura Schellenberg, NuToysLindsay Smith, weis design GroupMatthew Smith, Smith-Midland Corporation Nick Mauer, Musco LightingPJ Novick, ConfluenceScott Crawford, RdG design Group

Professional Members Adi Powell, St. CharlesAjsa Hukic, ArnoldAl Cross, BrentwoodAlan Bull, CarthageAlex Kent, warrensburgAmanda Becker, SpringfieldBen Hess, Richmond HeightsBen Kellner, SpringfieldBenjamin Armstrong, SpringfieldBilly Roll, wentzvilleBradley Maxey, SpringfieldBrian Knippelmeyer, Jackson CountyCathy Pierce, Clay CountyChad Ledbetter, ChesterfieldChelayne Sloss, SpringfieldCheryl Martin, North Kansas CityChris wilson, LibertyCotrell Kris, Springfielddan Eastham, Eurekadanielle Reecht, O’Fallondavid Rowan, Forest Park Foreverdavid Shockley, Jackson Countydavid Trent, Springfielddiana Tyndall, Springfielddoug Simmons, SpringfieldElliot wilburn, LebanonEmily ChamberlinErica Bockhoff, St. Louis CountyErin Boschen, SpringfieldFaith Raulie, HarrisonvilleGary Gerber, St. CharlesGreg Kappelmann, ChesterfieldHeather Liszewski, OlivetteHeather Reynolds, Blue SpringsHolly Mullen, BransonJared Swantner, ChesterfieldJason Booher, SpringfieldJayme Gee, warrensburgJeff Cumley, SpringfieldJeff weddle, FarmingtonJenna Lummis, Hannibal

Jerry Mitchell, SpringfieldJoe Rozycki, Jackson CountyJoey wilmes, ColumbiaJohn Hoffman, BallwinJohn Johnson, Jackson CountyJonathon Gehrin, FergusonJordan Nichols, Sunset HillsJoshua Curnutt, SpringfieldJoy Beseth, GrandviewJulie King, PerryvilleKara warren, SpringfieldKaren Otto, Richmond HeightsKathryn Steinhoff, SpringfieldKeith Riney, PerryvilleKelly Stroot, Richmond HeightsKevin Amonette, FarmingtonKevin Schuh, EurekaKirby Christopher, SpringfieldKory O’Laughlin, wentzvilleKraig Briggs, GrandviewKristy Stacy, SpringfieldLarry Bennett, CamdentonLarry Haugness, SpringfieldLaura ThalLeonard Perry, OlivetteLisa Matthess, SpringfieldMadeline Hinkfuss, GrandviewMaria Johnston, SpringfieldMarvin Anderson, St. Louis CountyMary Lynne Richards, HannibalMatthew Asikainen, FergusonMatthew Ball, American Red CrossMegan Herman, Maryland HeightsMelinda Pope, ColumbiaMichael Lamkin, SpringfieldMichael Mills, SpringfieldMichelle Ruesing, BoonvilleMike Barker, wentzvilleMike davis, west PlainsMike Irvine, SpringfieldMiles Park, SpringfieldMitch McQueen, Clay CountyMK dashke, CaseyvilleMorgan Curry, Richmond HeightsNancy Chamberlain, Youth SHARE Inc.Natalie Vaughan, SpringfieldQuinton Gittemeier, OlivetteRay Hyncik, SpringfieldRichard dutcher, SpringfieldRick Smith, RollaRob Hammond, Jackson CountyRobert Mcdavid, ColumbiaRoy Hays, O’FallonRyan Gibson, Lee’s Summit

Sally Grobelny, EllisvilleSteph deidrick, Missouri State ParksStephen Smith, Cape GirardeauSteve Casey, Lee’s SummitSteve Gallamore, Clay CountyTasia Kinney, SpringfieldTaylor Lee, SpringfieldTede Price, Lee’s SummitTerry Hinton, St. LouisTessa Bollinger, Cape GirardeauTheresa Rees, American Red CrossThomas Moore, SpringfieldTom Highfill, SpringfieldTravis worden, SpringfieldTrevor Steinbacher, NixaTrey Metzelthin, SpringfieldTyler Carr, SpringfieldTyler Tapps, Northwest Missouri Statewill Rein, Ballwin Parks & RecreationZach Patton, Sedalia

Student Membersdawon Bakerwilliam BolinEthan CobbErin CogbillSharia ColemanBrad CopelandCourtney devlinAnna duleyJoshua EbbesmeyerRyan GarberJessica Gillespiewill GrefrathLisa GroshongSam GuccioneZach HansonMichael HedrickQuinn HindmanMason HunterLuke JacksonBrittany JohnstonAshley MorganKara Overlydylan PaulEmily PorterKelsey RejkoLexa SchmidtCaitlin ShoultsEmily StacyKayla TempleAlex ThrelkeldKatie YagerHongchao Zhang


CLEANERWITH

PROPANE.

moperc.org

Park departments around the country are converting their lawn mowing fleets to propane fuel. They’ve discovered that propane-powered engines run cleaner than gasoline-fueled commercial mowers and reduce greenhouse gases by nearly 50%. What’s more, cleaner-running propane-powered mowers require less engine maintenance and cost less to operate.Find out more about the benefits of propane at moperc.org, where you’ll also find information about the financial incentives to switch to propane.

270.32877 MPRA 2015 Ad.indd 1 12/12/14 3:25 PM

Visits to Missouri State Parks Reach a New High

during a visit to Bennett Springs State Park, Gov. Jay Nixon announced that a record number of guests visited Missouri state parks in 2014 - more than 18.5 million! The governor says park attendance has helped the state economy by supporting more than 14,500 jobs and bringing in $9.7 million.

“we’re excited to see such a positive trend in park visitation as more Missourians chose to spend their time in our parks and historic sites,” said Bill Bryan, director of Missouri State Parks. “In 2015, we want to encourage even more people to experience the natural wonders and cultural treasures throughout our state.”

Missouri State Parks started a race series in 2014 in an effort to engage new user groups and bring more people to the parks. Races included the Finger Lakes Adventure Challenge at Finger Lakes State Park, Rocktober Run at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, Haulin’ Bass 8K and 15K at Stockton State Park, and 5K and 12K Tunnel Trot on the Katy Trail State Park starting in Rocheport. Plans for the 2015 series are underway.

Camping occupancy at the state's 40 parks and historic sites with campsites also increased about 5 percent last year, in part because of a bump in youth camping. About a quarter of campers in 2014 were under 18 years old.

Check out mostateparks.com throughout the year to hear about the adventures you can discover in Missouri state parks.

Roaring River State Park, Photo courtesy of Missouri State Parks

18.5million Missouri

state parks visitors in

2014


In October of 2014, the City of Blue Springs purchased the Blue Springs Fieldhouse, formally known as SportsCity. The Fieldhouse will offer new resources allowing the Blue Springs

Parks & Recreation department to better meet the community’s recreational needs as identified in a 2013 citizen survey.

In November 2013, the City put forth a half-cent Parks Sales Tax initiative to address park maintenance needs, develop new parks and to build our first community center. This initiative was defeated, challenging our department to find a new, creative way to meet our community’s recreational needs.

There is a famous quote that “Success happens when preparation meets opportunity.”

we were presented with just that opportunity when Linda Edison,

a resident and former Park Commissioner, came forward with a very generous donation after the unsuccessful sales tax initiative. This donation, paired with a private recreation facility for sale in our community, created an innovative solution to help us address

recreational shortfalls.

Staff worked with our City Council and Park Commission to use findings in the existing community center feasibility study to develop a business plan and funding strategy to purchase the private recreation facility. This creative solution allowed us to provide many of our residents’ key recreational priorities for a fraction of the cost of the proposed $35M community center in 2014. The estimated

purchase and renovation cost are expected to be $6M for what will be called the Blue Springs Fieldhouse.

Blue Springs Fieldhouse opening this fall

Submitted by Rachel Uptergrove, Blue Springs Parks & Recreation


The facility offers more than 76,000-square-feet of indoor recreation space. The building will contain four new, full-sized basketball courts providing space for league and tournament play with the possibility of adding a track along the perimeter for exercise. A larger soccer field will have new turf, along with a walking track added to the field’s perimeter. Staff have been working to incorporate rentable batting tunnels that will be installed on the turf and can be removed when soccer and football practices/games are being played.

For people interested in the family experience, the Fieldhouse will house an approximately 2,000-square-foot indoor playground where kids can play year-round. A 6,500-square-foot fitness center with state of the art equipment, an aerobics studio, a spin studio, and a child watch area will be available.

Other amenities in the building will include party rooms, an open seating area for spectators, concessions, men’s and women’s

locker rooms and a family changing room. The Fieldhouse will offer fitness and

recreational opportunities for everyone, regardless of skill or fitness level.

deconstruction began in January and the Blue Springs

Parks & Recreation crew performed most of the demolition work to be as cost-effective as

possible. Contractors will begin the renovation process in March with a scheduled completion date of September 2015.

The Blue Springs Parks & Recreation department is excited for this new space and looks forward to being able to better serve the Blue Springs community!

The estimated purchase and renovation costs for the Blue Springs Fieldhouse are

expected to be $6M.


Local schools, daycares and athletic programs have partnered with the City of O’Fallon’s Parks and Recreation department to find new ways to improve the health of the community. Together, they have introduced First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move!” initiative and the Missouri Council for Activity and Nutrition’s (MoCAN) “Eat Smart in Parks” program to the city. O’Fallon is one of only a handful of cities to participate in both programs.

“with more than 400 acres of parks and countless recreational programs for all ages, O’Fallon has established a reputation as an active community, dedicated to the health of our residents,” said Cindy Springer, director of Parks and Recreation. “Participating in ‘Let’s Move!’ and ‘Eat Smart in Parks’ takes this commitment a step further. Both of these programs are dedicated to reducing obesity and encouraging healthier choices. Through our participation, we are making decisions

on programming, concession options, menus, and recreational opportunities based on how we can help foster a healthier O’Fallon.”

Let’s Move! The Let’s Move! initiative, which is celebrating its fifth anniversary, establishes five goals designed to help solve the problem of obesity within a generation. O’Fallon officially joined “Let’s Move!” in 2014, and the city already is well on its way to achieving high ratings.

Achieving these goals requires cooperation from elected officials, local schools, daycares and residents. Communities are awarded gold, silver or bronze medal status based on their ability to meet each goal. O’Fallon currently has achieved medalist status in all five goals, and has received gold medals in the “My Plate, Your Place,” “Smart Servings for Students” and “Active Kids at Play” categories.

Submitted by Tom Drabelle, City of O’Fallon

O’Fallon Partnerships Make a Positive Impact


O’Fallon Partnerships Make a Positive Impact

“To be at this level only a year into our participation is a real testament to this community,” said Ty Joyce, Recreation Specialist, Fitness. “It is wonderful to be able to approach our local schools and daycares with an initiative like this and have them enthusiastically jump on board and say ‘what else can we do to help our community?’”

Eat Smart in Parks In addition to looking at the community, parks and recreation staff members also decided to look within their own department to see what O’Fallon could do to improve the healthy options in concession stands and parks facilities. The department teamed up with MoCAN’s Eat Smart in Parks program in the spring of 2014, and the impact already has been felt throughout the community.

“we started working with Amy dunaway and Cindy deBlauw with Eat Smart in Parks, and we immediately knew this was the right thing for our community,” said Roy Hays, Recreation Manger. “They have done several surveys on what kind of healthier options our residents would like to see in our parks, and our city has enthusiastically endorsed these ideas.”

Items such as frozen grapes, whole grain rice cereal treats and applesauce have quickly become popular items in O’Fallon’s concession stands and new healthy options will be introduced over the next year.

“This partnership really has been a positive experience,” said Hays. “we have only scratched the surface so far, and we are excited to continue moving forward with Eat Smart in Parks.”

Built on a strong foundation that has spanned three generations, Cunningham Recreation is dedicated to creating unique, fun playgrounds that provide meaningful play experiences for children of all ages and abilities.

From lightly themed play areas to complete themed designation parks, if you can imagine it, we can build it!

800.438.2780www.cunninghamrec.com


Submitted by Cathy Haggarty, World Waterpark Association

Host Location registration for the 2015 world’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ (wLSL) is now open. New this year, all Host Locations will teach their lessons at 10 a.m. in their local markets as the lesson travels around the globe over the course of 24 hours. In prior years, aquatic facilities hosting wLSL events conducted lessons simultaneously at 3 p.m. GMT.

The 2015 event will mark Team wLSL’s sixth Guinness world Record attempt for the largest swimming lesson ever conducted. The international team, made up primarily of kids, works together to prevent childhood drowning by participating in a global swim lesson to spread the vital message Swimming Lessons Save Lives™.

Tragically, drowning remains the leading cause of unintended, injury related death for children ages 1-5, and the second leading cause for children under 14. Research shows participation in formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88% among children aged 1 to 4, yet many children do not receive formal swimming or water safety training.

More than 40 different aquatics and safety organizations and publications support Team wLSL™ in their mission and encourage their members and constituencies to join the effort by registering as an official wLSL Host Location or participating in a local lesson.

The world’s Largest Swimming Lesson was founded by the world waterpark Association in 2010 as a platform to help aquatic facilities and the many different regional, national and international water safety organizations work together to communicate the fundamental importance of teaching children to swim.

Team wLSL set its fifth Guinness world Record on June 20, 2014 with 36,564 participants from 22 countries. Since its inception more than 120,000 people have participated in wLSL lessons generating more than 150 million media impressions.

Aquatic facilities, pools and waterparks interested in becoming an official wLSL Host Location can register at: www.wlsl.org/teach/.

World’s largest sWimming lessontm is making a

SPLASH around the World

LegisLative

Submitted by Jan Neitzert, Missouri Park & Recreation Association

MPRA's annual Legislative Action day was held on January 21, typically early in what is shaping up to be a very busy session. The weather cooperated again this year, and legislators lingered in Jefferson City awaiting the Governor's State of the State address later that evening. Thirty MPRA members - some veterans of MPRA's legislative activity, some first-timers - visited numerous offices, leaving copies of our legislative platform and nurturing relationships with Representatives, Senators and their staff.

This session there are several bills we will be monitoring for potential impact for MPRA and/or our partners: minimum wage, public vs. private sector businesses, dept. of Conservation matters, and more. Thanks to all our members who took the time to spend their day at the Capitol, and we look forward to assisting all of you in advocating for parks and recreation with our elected officials statewide. If you would like to know more about our legislative activity, please contact Jan Neitzert at [email protected].

Photo 1: Mark McHenry and Forest Decker of Kansas City Parks & Recreation with Senator Will Kraus (right).

Photo 2: Kirsten Barnes, Creve Coeur, with Representative Joe Adams, St. Louis (right).

Photo 3: Representative Josh Peters, St. Louis (left), talks to Chris Buckland, Missouri State Parks

action Day


1

2

3


On behalf of our entire Conference Committee, allow me to extend our appreciation to the many delegates, vendors, students, and other colleagues who came to Springfield February 24-27 for the 2015 Missouri Park and Recreation Association’s Annual Conference. we had a great deal of fun and fellowship developing this year’s event, “State of Health & Happiness,” and perhaps you’re a bit healthier and happier as a result of joining us!

I think we all agree that our Conference General Session was a most memorable one. Springfield’s top elected official, Mayor Bob Stephens, kicked things off for us that morning and our top elected official in Missouri, Governor Jay Nixon, closed out our session with resonating comments regarding the health and vitality of our State’s parks and trails. wow! Somewhere in between, we honored our well-deserving peers and heard an absolutely dynamic keynote address from community health advocate, Mark Fenton. Mark strongly admonished each of us to be genuine “change agents” back in our home communities – so let’s take him up on that worthwhile challenge!

Our Conference Committee would also like to congratulate all of those deserving honorees who were recognized at our Annual MPRA Awards Banquet. So many good things are happening throughout our Great State as a result of their

efforts – and many of yours as well. we acknowledged our newest Hall of Fame inductees – Ms. Anita Gorman and dr. Keith Roys. Both leave amazing legacies that helped to pave the way for, and truly inspire, our current generation of parks and recreation professionals. did you notice that our student involvement at this year’s Conference was at an all-time high, as evidenced by our many student room hosts and scholarship recipients.

The record-setting sponsorship support we had with this year’s Conference was nothing short of incredible! It’s essential for the health and happiness of MPRA’s annual bottom-line (pun intended) and gave us ample opportunity to “get our groove on” at each of our three Conference Socials. with that in mind, let’s give another MPRA standing ovation to the following firms and organizations:

2nd wind Exercise Equipment, All Inclusive Rec, BagSpot Pet waste Solutions, BBN Architects LLC, Cannon design, Confluence, Counsilman Hunsaker & Associates, Cunningham Recreation, Fry & Associates Inc., GameTime, Hood-Rich Architecture, Landscape Structures, McCownGordon Construction, Miracle Recreation, Missouri State University, Musco Lighting, Planning design Studio, Push Pedal Pull, SAPP design Associates, Springfield-Greene County Park Board, SSCI – Operation TLC2, SwT design, Vermont Systems, and the many other

agencies and organizations that pitched in – thanks so much!

Finally, as Conference Chair I really cannot adequately thank the many talented individuals that made up this year’s Conference Committee. during Conference itself, I affectionately referred to them as, “The dream Team,” and I meant every word of it. It’s no mystery that we had very high expectations going into this year’s Conference here in Springfield and somehow they exceeded those expectations at virtually every twist and turn! If you were lucky enough to attend this year’s Conference, I’m certain they exceeded yours as well. we would also be remiss not to give a huge shout-out to our fine MPRA staff – Jan, Sarah, and especially Gary – for their extensive efforts in helping make the 2015 Conference so very successful – a proud team effort all the way around!

So as you reflect back on your 2015 MPRA Conference experience, please know that we expect you to keep the MPRA momentum going in each of your hometowns throughout this entire year! As for our good friends in Columbia? we have no doubt they will knock it out of the park when we all come visiting next February for the 2016 MPRA Conference!

In Health & Happiness, Bob Belote CPRP, 2015 Conference Chair Missouri Park and Recreation Association

2015 CONFERENCE

HIGHLIGHTS

“Keep rockin’ That state of Health & Happiness”


Steve Clark@brewersfansteveAwesome interactive session on

POUNDFit by Jen Keets at #MPRA2015 We have got to get this program started in the STL area!

Angie Fox Toebben@mamafoxoffourSocial time at the #MPRA2015

conference in Springfield. Good times, food and friends!

ParkBoard@TheParkBoard#SGF Mayor Bob Stephens

welcomes hundreds of Mo parks professionals to the city #MPRA2015 @MOParkRec

GreatRivers Greenway@GreatRiversSTLPresident Elect of NRPA greets

#MPRA2015: “it’s good to be here, feels like coming home”!

Em Porter@emporter21Excited to see NW’s Dr. Robertson

and all the wonderful professionals this week. Because of you we love what we study! #MPRA2015 #NWMSU Kelly Stroot

@klcordia@markfenton is making great

points. Let’s give our kids free range of play like we had growing up. #MPRA2015

Michael Biedenstein@mikeybeadIt’s awesome to hear @

GovJayNixontalk at @MOParkRec about the importance of Parks & Rec! #voice4parksnrec #MPRA2015

Elliot Wilburn@eburn40ozJust finished a great seminar with

@bphipps68 of the @Sgf_Cardinals #MPRA2015

Chuck Kempf@ckk0731Great session with Mark Fenton

on Healthy Community Designs at #MPRA2015.

Gabe Huffington@GeHuffCPRDThe difficulty lies not in the new

ideas but in escaping from the old ones #MPRA2015

Alyssa G. @aly_313Dr. Roys and Mrs. Gorman=great

role models for all P&R professionals #MPRA2015

Meg Wilkerson@huntress65x55‘Never have your mouth

open stupidly during a speaker photo.’ Quote of the day goes to Mike Griggs #MPRA2015

Joseph Seastrom@theQuewi forgot how mad my dance skillz

were... thanks #MPRA2015

Thanks to everyone for using #MPRA2015 throughout conference. We look forward to seeing you all again next year!

Meg Wilkerson@huntress65x55@MOParkRec great keynote

speaker for #MPRA2015 Mark Fenton is super passionate and has a awesome way of sharing it.

Governor Jay Nixon@GovJayNixonMissourians share an outdoor

heritage that’s good for our health and our economy. Pleased to address @MOParkRec in #SGF today #MPRA2015

Jason Knight@1980jknight#MPRA2015 Phone. dying. Must.

Find. Charger... Good sessions today! #tweetforprizes

Angie Fox Toebben@mamafoxoffourNothing as great as the

friendships you make from networking at conference! @GeHuffCPRD #MPRA2015

SSCI@SSCI2000We had a great session this

morning at #MPRA2015! Thank you to everyone who attended! @MOParkRec

Steve Clark@brewersfansteveAnother GR8 @

MOParkRecconference. Job well done by MPRA staff & @TheParkBoard Learned lots & connected w/a lot of great friends! #MPRA2015

Ballard*King@BallardKingGood turn out for the Sports

League session @MOParkRec #mpra2015.

Matthew Asikainen@MattAsikainenJust got a roll of toilet paper...

#expogiveaway #MPRA2015

Alyssa G. @aly_313@SealsweetieDani I won the

Fitbit!!! #mpra2015

Dave Musgrave@dave_musgraveLearning “If you can’t measure

it, you can’t manage it” #MPRA2015

Hannibal Parks-Rec@HannibalParksLearning about outdoor fitness

park at MPRA conference, maybe something for Hannibal! #MPRA2015

Kirsten Barnes@kirstenmbarnesAmazing work by @

ForestPark4Everwarrants true recognition from @MOParkRec for all you do. Congrats! #mpra2015


AwARd WINNERS

Anita B. Gorman and Dr. Keith B. Roys, Sr. were inducted into the Missouri Recreation and Parks Hall of Fame on Thursday, February 26, 2015.

Anita Gorman has worked to improve Kansas City’s quality of life for more than 50 years. Her leadership in and work with many groups and organizations has helped the city blossom.

Mrs. Gorman was the first woman appointed to the Kansas City, Missouri Board of Park and Recreation Commissioners, serving from 1979 until 1991. during her tenure, so much was accomplished: the building of several fountains, the passing of bonds to support and expand the Kansas City Zoo, the acquisition of property for additional parks and boulevards and many more.

Mrs. Gorman also served on the Missouri Conservation Commission from 1993 until 2005 and became the first woman to chair the commission in 1996. Her focus was to help urban communities better connect with nature and the importance of conservation. In addition, Mrs. Gorman has been a member of the City of Fountains Foundation since its

beginning in 1973. The Foundation works in partnership with the Kansas City Parks and Recreation department to operate and maintain 47 publicly-owned fountains.

Today Mrs. Gorman continues her work on behalf of Kansas City’s Parks and Recreation projects. She has been a strong supporter of sales tax increases to better fund parks and recreational activities for many years to come.

dr. Keith Roys received his Bachelor of Arts in Recreation Leadership from the University of washington, and his master’s in physical education - interrupted by service in the U.S. Navy. It was a rare degree choice in those days, and his first job was with the Green Bay, wisconsin Recreation department. Following positions with Rohr Aircraft Corporation in Southern California and the City of Coronado, he pursued his Phd at the University of Illinois. At Illinois, his skill as a statistician was evident - his dissertation on psychometrics resulted in the Recreation key on the Strong Campbell Interest Inventory. These distinctions resulted in an offer to join the faculty at the University of Minnesota. In 1966, he finally found

his “home” at the University of Missouri - Columbia, as the department of Recreation’s first Chair.

Prior to 1966, students received a BA in Social work with a Recreation Option. dr. Roys’ charge was to pursue department accreditation, then to develop both bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in recreation and park administration. The BS gained approval in 1967, followed by the MS degree in 1968.

In 1973, North Carolina State and the University of Missouri became the first two universities to receive accreditation from NRPA.

Instrumental in developing Mizzou’s internship program, dr. Roys is a respected author on the subject, and for years met individually with every intern candidate. He was also a driving force behind the creation of Rho Phi Lambda and the student organization now known as SPRTA.

After serving as department chair for 4 years, he returned to teaching and advising and retired in 1997. Thousands of graduates have their degrees from Mizzou, many directly influenced by Roys in one way or another.

HALL OF FAME

Missouri Recreation & Parks Hall of Fame Inducts Two Professionals

Anita B. Gorman dr. Keith B. Roys, Sr.


MPRA FELLOWS

A Closer Look at the 2015 MPRA Fellows

rod Auxier, FellowRod Auxier has served as the Maryville Parks & Recreation director for the last 29 years. He oversees full-time staff, 11 parks and facilities, develops the budget, and manages short-term and long-term plans to enhance the future of Maryville Parks & Recreation. during his time as director, Rod successfully passed a General Obligation Bond to expand the Maryville Community Center building and was a major organizer in the first joint use Community Center/Armory in the State of Missouri. He also planned and raised funds for a 40-acre park and sports complex, and led the effort for a 1.9 million dollar bond issue to construct a new Aquatic Center. Before he became the Maryville Park director, he worked as a Sports Coordinator in the Peoria, Illinois Park district for six years and an Athletic Supervisor in the St. Joseph, Missouri Parks & Recreation department for two years.

Rod graduated from Northwest Missouri State University with a Park & Recreation Administration degree and was a Certified Park & Recreation Professional for 28 years. He has been active in the National Recreation & Park Association, Missouri High School Activities Association, National Federation of High School Activities, and Missouri Park & Recreation Association. His service to MPRA includes 20 years on the Professional Certification Board, previous Secretary/Treasurer, Board Member, and Municipal Section President.

In his free time, Rod enjoys golfing, officiating for high school football games on Friday nights, and traveling to warm vacation destinations. Rod has two sons, Brent in New York and Erick, the Mozingo Park Manager in Maryville.

Tom Ott, Associate FellowTom Ott began his career with Saint Louis County Parks in 1983 as a Park Ranger, and soon became a Park Supervisor. After 10 years as a Park Supervisor, Tom became the Park Operations Supervisor for the City of Crestwood in 1994, returning to Saint Louis County in 1998 as Program Service Manager. In 2002 he moved to the Park Operations Manager position and in 2005 he was promoted to deputy director. when the Parks director retired in 2012, Tom began serving as Acting director.

during his tenure as Acting director, Tom guided Saint Louis County Parks through some difficult financial constraints, rallying his staff to “do more with less.” He was instrumental in helping to pass Proposition P in April 2013, generating $6 million annually for the Saint Louis County Parks department’s budget, as well as supporting the Great Rivers Greenway/Jefferson National Expansion Memorial renovation project, and Saint Louis County Municipal Park Grant fund. working with various outside groups, he brought about the total replacement of the North County Recreation Complex Aquatic Center at Veterans Memorial Park that opened in 2014, in addition to the construction of the Lemay Aquatic Center scheduled to open in 2015. Tom also successfully created a foundation to establish private funding for Saint Louis County Parks.

“The educational sessions that I attended covered a wide range of topics from engaging part time staff members and student development to producing races and new programming ideas. I was able to learn from many other professionals in the field, while earning CEU’s for the sessions I attended.” - Samantha Simmons, professional scholarship recipient

“I walked away wanting to pursue my professional certification (CPRP) and am excited about hopefully attending next year’s conference.” - Danielle Reecht, professional scholarship recipient

MPRA FELLOWS

A Closer Look at the 2015 MPRA Fellows

Kim reser, Associate FellowKim Reser has been an impactful change agent in parks and recreation for over 25 years. Beginning her career at Marshall Parks & Recreation, she added experience at the University of Kansas and United States Tennis Association before joining the Springfield-Greene County Park Board department’s management team in 1997. Currently Assistant director of Parks, she oversees several multi-million dollar divisions, family centers, indoor and outdoor aquatics, school-park sites, all sports program administration (except golf), senior programs, and scholarship programs. Additionally, she administers numerous special events, drawing thousands of participants each year.

Kim has served on several boards of directors and committees, including NRPA, MPRA, USTA and Urban district Alliance. A graduate of NRPA’s director’s School, she holds CPRP and PTR certifications.

She served on a past NRPA National Programs Committee, as liaison to the MPRA Board of directors from that committee’s programs. For over two decades, she has been an executive officer and national committee member of the United States Tennis Association and currently serves on the United States Olympic Committee/Community Olympic development Program Board. Also an author, she has contributed to NRPA, MPRA, USTA and other business publications.

Another passion for Kim has been the mentoring of students and young professionals, offering work environments to prepare for the work force upon graduation.

20 Missouri Parks & Recreation • www.mopark.org

AwARd WINNERS


BY THE NUMBERS2015

Source: 2015 Conference Evaluations

386 Delegates Attended

73.1%

93.2% attended conference for the Education Sessions

82% attended conference for the

Networking Opportunities

90.2%attended the Expo Hall

78.8%rated the Education Sessions

better than average

plan to attend the 2016 Conference in Columbia on February 23-26

$7,100was raised by the Silent Auction

students registered as Room Hosts102

Most creative delegate gift suggestion2 tickets to the Virgin Islands

THAnK yOu TO THe 2015 COnFerenCe COmmiTTee

Administrative/Legal Committee: Bob Belote, Karen Herron, Lana woolsey

Program Committee: Kim Reser, Jill Simmons, Bill Ingemi

Sponsorship Committee: Craig Luetkemeyer, diana Tyndall

Off-Sites Committee: Jeff Cumley, Terry whaley, Mike Crocker

Transportation & Signage Committee: Miles Park, Matt Coats, dennis McMan

Expo Hall Committee: Jon Carney, Trey Metzilthin, Tom Moore, Jon Chamberlin, Tom Highfill

Social/Events Committee: Anne-Mary McGrath, diana Tyndall, Robert Uckele, Maria Johnston, Cindy Jobe

Auction Committee: Crissy withrow, Chad Beasley, Maria Johnston, Audra Schupbach, Karen Herron, Amanda Becker

Room Host Committee: Brad Stulce, diana Lung, Steve webb, Keith Ernce

Student Activities Committee: Susan McLeod, Ashleigh Lewellen, Larry Bennett, Amy Hays

Technology Committee: Tim McCrea, Tom Adams

Awards Committee: Craig Feldt, Jenny Edwards

Hall of Fame Committee: Ann Schroeder, Miki McKee-Koelsch, Bettie Yahn-Kramer, Jim Kent, Richard Ash, Mary Vaughan, Charlie Barr, Roscoe Righter, Bob Belote

Promotion Committee: Jenny Edwards, Kristen Milam

Budget Committee: Jerry Mitchell, Bob Belote

SW Region 3 Committee: Samantha Payne, Susan McLeod

MPRA President – Phil Stiles

President-Elect – Kirsten Barnes

Immediate Past-President – Terry Robertson

22 Missouri Parks & Recreation • www.mopark.org

2015 MPRA AWARD AND CITATION WINNERS

AwARd WINNERS

Musco Giveback AwardGreat Rivers GreenwayNominated by Emma Klues

Retirement Service AwardJim Kent, St. Charles CountyNominated by Bettie Yahn-Kramer

Retirement Service AwardMike Opperman, City of webster GrovesNominated by Miki McKee-Koelsch

Retirement Service AwardAnn SchroederNominated by Mary Vaughan

Individual Citation Bobby & Betty AllisonNominated by Bob Belote

Individual Citation Jay K. GithensNominated by Clark Allen

Organization Citation Liberty Community Health Action TeamNominated by Janet Bartnik

Organization Citation Liberty Memorial AssociationNominated by Mark McHenry

Organization Citation Forest Park ForeverNominated by Dan Skillman

Southeast Region Outstanding New ProfessionalMarvin Anderson, St. Louis CountyNominated by Michael Biedenstein

Southeast Region Outstanding New ProfessionalStephanie Hopp, City of BrentwoodNominated by Eric Gruenenfelder

Northwest Region Outstanding New ProfessionalRyan Gibson, City of Lee’s SummitNominated by Tede Price

Individual Citation Mike & dee BowlesNominated by Tede Price

Congratulations also to these award winners who were unable to join us.

Public Official AwardPatrick Kelly, City of BrentwoodNominated by Bola Akande

Aquatics Section Outstanding New Professional Tracy Baer, City of des PeresNominated by Nikki Thole Buechler

Aquatics Section Distinguished ServiceCasey Turner Gaines, City of LibertyNominated by Charles Anderson

Park Resources Section Distinquished Servicedennis Green, St. Charles CountyNominated by Betty Yahn-Kramer

Park Resources Section Outstanding New Professional devin wetzel, City of Lee’s SummitNominated by Tom Lovell

Sports Section Excellence in ServiceRodney Sadler, City of BeltonNominated by Michael Biedenstein

Sports Section Outstanding Volunteer CoachZak wilson, City of Jefferson Nominated by Angie Toebben


CONGRATuLATIONS TO OuR 2015 PROFESSIONAL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

These individuals received an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2015 MPRA Conference and Expo. Find out how you can apply for a professional scholarship to the 2016 conference at www.mopark.org.

2015 MPRA AWARD AND CITATION WINNERS

THAnK yOu TO Our 2015 COnFerenCe spOnsOrs

2nd wind Exercise Equipment

All Inclusive Rec

BagSpot Pet waste Solutions

BBN Architects, LLC

Cannon design

Confluence

Counsilman Hunsaker & Associates

Cunningham Recreation

Fry & Associates, Inc.

GameTime

Hood-Rich Architecture

Landscape Structures

McCownGordon Construction

Miracle Recreation

Musco Lighting

Planning design Studio

Push Pedal Pull

SAPP design Associates

Springfield-Greene County Park Board

SSCI – Operation TLC2

SwT design

Vermont Systems

Tyler Landreth Melinda Pope Danielle Reecht Samantha Simmons

“Thank you for making the [awards banquet] an unforgettable event for me.” – Anita B. Gorman, 2015 Hall of Fame inductee


Submitted by Angie Riehn, St. Louis County Parks

There is nothing like the experience of a natural tree in your home during the holiday season, but if you are like most people, the problem comes after the holidays when it’s time to dispose of the tree. Saint Louis County Parks teamed up with the Missouri department of Conservation (MdC) again this year to put retired trees to good use.

The community was invited to drop off undecorated natural Christmas trees at one of four designated locations around the County: Creve Coeur Park, Spanish Lake Park, Bella Fontaine Park or the North County Recreation Complex. The trees were then sunk by MdC in County Park lakes to create fish habitats.

“Our lakes are manmade or have been dredged so there is not much fish cover in them,” said Jim Gerken, Park Operations Manager. “Natural Christmas trees are a great way to create cover in the winter.”

The trees also give anglers an advantage because the habitats benefit some of the most popular fish that anglers like to pursue, including largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish and crappie.

“we were very pleased with the response from our community,” said Gerken. “Several hundred trees were dropped off and sunk in Creve Coeur Lake, Spanish Lake and Rearing Pond at Suson Park. we have some very happy fish in our County lakes.”

St. Louis County Parks and MdC Put Retired Christmas Trees to Good Use

RECREATION NEWS & uPDATES

2015 winter Classic Clayton Parks and Recreation’s Shaw Park Ice Rink was host to the 2015 winter Classic on Saturday, January 24th. The Shaw Park winter Classic is organized by the Mid-States Club Hockey Association. Eight St. Louis area high school hockey teams faced off in these highly anticipated exhibition games. despite this year’s unseasonably warm temperatures, each school was able to cheer on their team at this exciting community event.


The MPRA model for developing grass-roots support for the value of parks and recreation to our citizens and communities is now in its fourth year. we have been invited to deliver the outline for the plan in 9 different states now, and 5 have demonstrated their support by purchasing the program: Kansas, Oklahoma, Minnesota, Alaska and now, our first academic partner - Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky. As our training sessions continue, MPRA staff and volunteers work on fine-tuning the presentations for each unique audience and the program today is much improved over those initial regional training sessions a few years ago!

A return visit to Indiana is coming up and then we hope to make it to the west coast later in 2015.

If you are an MPRA member, we’d love to make you part of the Missouri dYK/FOP family that is almost 25-strong now! we will bring a customized 1/2-day session to you at no charge, and you’ll leave fully-equipped to launch your own initiative, and ready to begin forming an informed, confident and passionate base of citizen advocates. Contact Jan Neitzert at [email protected] to schedule your training.

Tede Price & Tom McCarthy facilitate training for 83 professionals in Minnesota.

did You Know/Friends of the Parks Spreads Across the Country


By Nathan Musteen, CPRP Director of Parks & Recreation, City of Raymore

The month of February brought our association one of its biggest events of the year, the Annual Conference, and with it something that I greatly enjoy – training. Both our state conference and National Recreation and Park Association’s National Congress are great fun. I truly enjoy everything about them: the sessions, the travel, the social events, the exhibit halls, the networking, seeing friends and colleagues from across the country, and the break it provides us in our day-to-day jobs. These conferences rejuvenate, inspire, and put us at least five to seven days behind at work with a pile of “to-dos” or “uh-ohs” awaiting our return to the office. I love it!

But once in a while, usually through some thrifty budgeting or tough sacrificial decision making, I get the opportunity to attend something a little different, something I like to call “a résumé booster with substance,” otherwise known as professional development schools or certification programs. For the purpose of this article, I want to focus just on the schools offered through NRPA.

As a director of a brand-new department, I was searching for some additional training or resources to help move our tiny department forward and lay the groundwork for growth based on sound principles and best management practices. due to budget constraints, I was limited to what I was able to attend. In

doing a quick online search, I discovered the John C. Potts Scholarship to attend the NRPA director School (d-School).

The first thing I noticed the application deadline was only two weeks out. As I researched the school and read through the application details, I decided it was worth a shot and within two weeks, I had written my application essay, obtained my letters of support, and completed the application. I figured if I was awarded the scholarship, I planned to attend d-School; if not, I would try to budget for it the following year.

In early July, I received a full scholarship, including travel expenses, to attend the 2014 NRPA directors School (Year 1). what a great honor and awesome opportunity, not to mention the kudos from my city manager for not spending any of my budget on the training.

Per the NRPA website, www.nrpa.org/directors, “The NRPA directors School is an exclusive professional development opportunity designed to prepare new and potential directors of park and recreation agencies for the challenges of leading and managing effectively.”

That is the perfect summary of what d-School is, although anyone who has attended could vastly expand on that description. Upon my arrival, I noticed that those in attendance weren’t just new or upcoming directors – there were also veteran directors.

For me, the experiences I brought home from those seven days at the Oglebay

Resort in wheeling, west Virginia, d-School were much like college. It’s a privilege to attend, it’s expensive for a small town budget (but scholarships are available), and people from all geographic areas come together for a short period of time to share thoughts, ideas and information.

Like anything, you truly get out what you put in, and the knowledge and information presented is invaluable if you choose to absorb it and apply it. The program instructors were fantastic and extremely gracious, and the networking and diverse experiences shared between classmates helps craft a unique, bonded society of alumni. Much like the typical college experience, you love it, you hate it, you look forward to the sessions but can’t wait to get out early. You stay up way too late and get up way to early, but when it’s all over, you can’t wait to go back. Plus, the friendships you make there will last a lifetime – we even have our own Facebook page (but you have to be a d-school alumnus to join).

d-School is the second NRPA professional development school I’ve attended: Park Maintenance Management School was equally beneficial. I would recommend that anyone looking for additional training opportunities to consider the NRPA schools as a supplement to our MPRA’s educational opportunities. NRPA directors School information is available online and the registration window is currently open.

I hope to see you at d-School this August!

“Hey, MPRA Members - Have you Considered ‘D-School?”

Nathan Musteen


do you have a closet full of t-shirts, hats, and jackets – either at home or your office? I believe that we have an opportunity to make a difference. Last summer I had the opportunity to travel to Uganda, Africa on a mission to a village of 1,200 orphans. while there, I worked on the construction of a medical building. Over the years, I’ve heard of several other MPRA members traveling to Africa or other third world countries, witnessing the extremely poor living conditions of their citizens: no shoes, scarcity of safe drinking water, minimal health and medical services, unreliable electricity, lack of transportation, etc.

Visiting casually with Gary Gates, Assistant Executive director, MPRA, about this experience, I mentioned that on my trip I brought dozens of my old t-shirts, hats, and other items to leave for the locals. we collected funds and purchased new shoes for some of the staff, too - I couldn’t believe how appreciative they were and how much it

impacted them! Many have only one set of clothes and wear it for several years.

As our discussion continued, Gary and I realized that all of us in this profession have a collection of t-shirts, hats and jackets in our closets, have a lost and found box with balls, gloves, and Frisbees, or end up with extra similar items sitting in a box somewhere. we have an opportunity to make a positive change, albeit a small one, perhaps.

what if we, MPRA, could collect these and other items, and send them to Uganda? what if MPRA challenged other state associations within the United States to do the same, or to adopt a third world country? why not?

I’ve begun a conversation with the organization that sponsored my trip last year to determine costs of freight, distribution, timing, and need. This single organization has several thousand orphans, widows, and workers who need help. There are

2.5 million orphans in Uganda and a total of 47.5 million orphans in Africa. I know organizations exist that can help with the distribution of these donations. There may be legal issues with departments donating surplus items to such a cause. But I also know we have so much here in the U.S., and that we could make a difference. I don’t know if this will be a one-time project or an annual project. I know I am not expecting MPRA to make a large financial commitment, just to help organize and be the clearinghouse or provide a collection location.

I plan to present this idea to the Board at the leadership retreat in April, hoping to gain their approval. If that happens, you will be hearing more about this new initiative. we would need everyone’s help to make this happen. Every day you make a difference working in your local community, but my question is.... can you make a difference in another country for people you have never met? I am willing to bet that we can!

Can MPRA Make a Difference…Half Way Around the World?Submitted by Roscoe Righter

Tom McCarthy (Chesterfield) and Ann Schroeder (Union) traveled to Kenya in 2005 with eight others from Missouri and many others from the United States and Canada.

Roscoe Righter’s mission group sharing candy with a few of the 1,500 orphans at Suubi Village in 2014

The Musco Lighting Building 2018 william Street Jefferson City, MO 65109-1186

Missouri Parks & Recreation

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Documents

Missouri Parks & Recreation Magazine Spring 2015