missouri parks & recreation spring 2016

MISSOURIMISSOURIMISSOURIParks & RecreationParks & RecreationParks & Recreation

SPRING 2016SPRING 2016SPRING 2016SPRING 2016SPRING 2016SPRING 2016SPRING 2016SPRING 2016

Official publication of the Missouri Park & Recreation Association






2016 NRPA CONFERENCE: LOCAL UPDATES

Pitch, Hit & Run Celebrates 20 YearsPitch, Hit & Run Celebrates 20 YearsPitch, Hit & Run Celebrates 20 Years

Hannibal acquires a 185-acre Nature Reserve boasting a large endangered bat population

2016 MPRA Conference Highlights & Awards



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TABLE OF CONTENTS President’s Letter ............................................................................................. 4 Thank You, MPRA ............................................................................................. 5Announcements .......................................................................................... 6-10Did You Know? ................................................................................................12Welcome New Members ...............................................................................13To The Bat Cave .........................................................................................14-15MLB Pitch Hit & Run Celebrates 20 Years ....................................................16Go Ape, KC Parks Partnership.......................................................................172016 MPRA Conference Follow-Up ........................................................ 18-25CODP Athletes of the Year ........................................................................... 26

NRPA Conference: Local Updates ..........................................................28-30

ADVERTISER INDEX MPRA AFO Course .......................................................................................... 5BagSpot ..........................................................................................Back CoverCunningham Recreation .................................................... Inside Back CoverJohn Deere ......................................................................................................11M&M Golf Cars ................................................................................................ 9Most Dependable Fountains ........................................... Inside Front CoverNRPA Volunteers Needed ............................................................................ 27PlayCore ...........................................................................................................17R.J. Thomas / Pilot Rock .................................................................................15Safe Sitter.......................................................................................................... 4USTA Missouri Valley ..................................................................................... 27 Thank you to Musco Lighting, our Corporate Sponsor.

On the cover:

Clint Miller, of The Conservation Fund, talks to Mary Lynn Richards, Hannibal Parks & Recreation, and Hannibal High School seniors Luke Anderson and Aaron Fogel at the Sodalis Nature Preserve.

Photo courtesy of Steve Orr

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) 841-1111 [email protected]

Missouri Parks & Recreation ©2016. 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 2016 – July 15, 2016 Winter 2017 – November 15, 2016 2017 Directory & Buyer’s Guide - January 13, 2017 Spring 2017 – February 15, 2017

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.

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4 Missouri Parks and Recreation • www.mopark.org

Every year, we have the chance to come together at our annual conference. It’s always amazing, and this year was certainly no different.

From education sessions to the keynote, we were called to action. We were reminded that positive coaching matters, and Dr. McGuire challenged us to truly define what our personal philosophy is. We were reminded that we don’t manage parks and recreation – we manage parks and recreation professionals, and we were given a variety tools to do so. We were reminded to JFDI (just focus and do it) and were given new and innovative ways to do whatever “it” is for each of us. We were called on to tell our story and

extend our reach our communities, and we were called on not just to be a mentor but to thank those who mentored us.

When we get together each winter, we are reminded that we are on this path together. We have a chance to share our stories, to be inspired, to find guidance and support, to be challenged, and to refresh. But, as Mr. Ford said, coming together is only the beginning. To continue to progress forward – to grow our organization and our profession, to deepen our ties in our communities and state – we must remain connected beyond our annual conference.

So I encourage you to turn back the page a bit, review your notes from conference and ask yourself if you’ve followed those calls to action. I encourage you to think about what inspired you and to reach out to the new contacts you made. But most importantly, I encourage you to get involved with this organization in a deeper way: volunteer at a Regional fundraiser, attend a mini-conference, sit in on a committee or section meeting, or reach just reach out to MPRA staff to find out where you can help.

This is an amazing organization filled with amazingly talented professionals, and all of us working together is the real key to another 50+ years of success!

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

By Kirsten Barnes, MPRA Board President

Henry Ford once said “Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.”

WE’LL BE AT THE NRPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE. WILL YOU?

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Thank you, MPRA!Submitted by Rebecca Stidham, Columbia Parks & Recreation

A LETTER TO MPRA

Columbia Parks & Recreation would like to thank MPRA Executive Director Jan Neitzert for making special arrangements to present the 2016 MPRA Public Official Achievement Award to Mayor Bob McDavid at the February 15 Columbia City Council Meeting. Since the honoree was going to be out of town during the week of the 2016 MPRA Conference and Expo, Jan graciously agreed to make the presentation early at the Council Meeting. We also send a “thank you” to MPRA Assistant Executive Director Gary Gates for expediting the plaque order and to Craig Feldt and his staff at O’Fallon Parks & Recreation for compiling the award video in time for the early presentation.

In front of city council members, city administration, media, and public observers, Jan made effective use of the speaking opportunity, educating the audience as to the benefits of Parks and Recreation. Here is an excerpt from her introductory comments:

“…to inform everyone in America of the value of what Parks and Recreation brings to the quality of life…

• For the million Americans employed in Parks and Recreation

• For businesses who know that quality parks and recreation is the number two reason that people choose to relocate to a community

• For communities who benefit from $140 billion in economic activity every year

• For citizens who care about clean air and water (which is what they care about the most)

• For children whose only chance for a healthy meal when school is out is from summer meal programs through parks and recreation

• For seniors who live longer and healthier when they have the chance to be active and social

• For teens who are less likely to smoke, drink, do drugs, and vandalize when organized positive options are available to them

• For men, women, and children who have affordable opportunities to get healthy and stay healthy (which by the way, saves everyone money)

• For citizens who have access to trails, parks, recreation programs, and open space regardless of age, income, physical or mental ability

That sounds pretty essential to me.”

Thank you, MPRA, for honoring Columbia’s supportive mayor and for going above and beyond to make the early presentation possible.

Thank you, MPRA, for honoring Columbia’s supportive mayor and for going above and beyond to make the early presentation possible.

(Left to right): Mike Griggs, Director of Columbia Parks & Recreation, Mayor Bob McDavid, Jan Neitzert, Executive Director of MPRA, and Mike Matthes, Columbia City Manager.

Missouri Park and Recreation Association Offers AFO Course

The aquatics industry provides safe and enjoyable opportunities for people of all ages to engage in recreation, increase their fitness and health, learn sportsmanship, and spend time with family and friends. Get state-of-the-art educational training for pool operations and management staff. This program is designed to meet the needs of those working in public, semi-public, and municipal pool or waterpark facilities.

Aquatic Facility Operator Course

Online registration is available at www.mopark.org/afocourse.html

October 3-4, 2016Pavilion at Lemay, St. Louis, MO

ANNOUNCEMENTS


Anders Kropp joined the Park Board’s School-Park section January 4, as an Account Services Representative. With a background in accounting and tax preparation, Anders coordinates and maintains information required for grant reporting and budgeting systems, as well as reviews and processes credit card payments, timesheets, revenue receipts, and data processing entries.

Alexandria Blewer began as a Contract Concession Assistant December 7, bringing with her more than ten years of experience in managing concessions. Alexandria supervises and manages the Mediacom Ice Park concession operations, as well as assists with general concessions and catering opportunities. She also supervises temporary and seasonal staff.

Sarah Fuller was named a Community Recreation Specialist with School-Parks November 15. Sarah previously worked with SPARC’s summer camps, after-school programs, and volleyball league. Sarah assists in the planning of School-Park programming opportunities, the supervision and management of temporary and seasonal staff.

Elizabeth Crum started November 2 as Community Recreation Specialist assigned to outdoor initiatives. She previously worked at Table Rock State Park and the Outdoor Recreation Department at the Naval Air Station in Sigonella, Italy. Elizabeth assists in supervision and management of temporary/seasonal staff.

Tim McCrea was named Business Systems Analyst November 1, after serving a decade as Community Recreation Coordinator at Chesterfield Family Center. Tim has played a key role in the Park Board’s successful implementation of the Active computer software. In this new position, Tim reviews and analyzes system software requirements

and procedures, determines effectiveness and efficiency of existing and new systems, and overall maximizes the benefits of information technology for the Park Board.

Daniel Villalobos began as Community Recreation Supervisor at the Springfield Skate Park August 24. Daniel has twelve years experience in marketing, retail service, and computer support. He organizes activities for all ages at the Springfield Skate Park, as well as recruits, and manages seasonal, full-time and contractual staff.

Jim Fisher began as the Park Board’s Assistant Director – Administration June 1. Jim has more than 30 years in public parks administration, mostly in the Kansas City area, previously serving as Director for Clay County Department of Parks, Recreation and Historic Sites. Other job titles held during his career include Superintendent of Parks, Parks and Grounds Manager, Senior

Park Manager, and Park Ranger. Fisher is a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) and has been involved with both NRPA and MPRA throughout his career. Jim filled a position left vacant by Bob Belote when he was promoted to Parks Director in May 2012. Jim oversees Human Resources, Golf, Park Rangers, Business Operations, the Springfield Lasers, Special Facilities, and Jordan Valley Park, as well the ongoing departmental accreditation process.

Amanda (Becker) Nguyen has been named Community Recreation Coordinator, assigned to Chesterfield Family Center, effective February 21. Amanda has been with the Park Board since 2012, serving as Youth Sports Supervisor and later, Springfield Skate Park Coordinator. Prior to joining the Park Board team, Amanda was the Assistant Director at the Southwest Baptist University Meyer Wellness and Sports Center.

Justin Smith is Community Recreation Supervisor assigned to Outdoor Initiatives effective July 27. Justin was previously an Outdoor Education Teacher/Ropes Course Facilitator at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, CO and Rock Wall Coordinator for the Ozark Community Center. He organizes and teaches outdoor initiative activities for all ages, and aquires and manages seasonal, full-time and contractual staff.

Holly Garrison was named Community Recreation Supervisor - Concessions July 13, after working in various Park Board concessions positions for fourteen years. Holly purchases and maintains inventory, and inspects concession stands for health department compliance. She also participates in the supervision, training, scheduling and evaluation process for temporary/seasonal concessions employees.

Springfield-Greene County Park Board Makes Several Promotions and New Hires

DID YOU KNOW?…Including a walking path at your dog park can increase the chance of dog owners participating in physical activity rather than sitting on a bench? Recreation Management, March 2016

Young people with the early stages of a serious mental disorder experienced a 27% decrease in the overall severity and frequency of their symptoms after participating in a 10-week exercise program? LiveScience, 2016; Early Intervention in Psychiatry


ANNOUNCEMENTS

Spalding Hired as Jefferson City Parks & Recreation Director

Todd Spalding has been hired as the director for the Jefferson City Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department. Todd began his employment on January 26.

Todd is originally from Raymore, MO and has previous work experience with YMCA’s in Fort Worth, TX, Brookfield, MO, and Quincy, IL. Prior to accepting the Jefferson City

director’s post, Todd was the director for the Belton, MO Parks and Recreation Department for the past 12 years.

Lee Joins Branson Parks & Recreation

Taylor Lee recently joined Branson’s Parks & Recreation team as their new Facility and Aquatics Manager. Taylor is a graduate of Missouri State University with a degree in recreation, sport, and park administration. She previously worked for the Springfield-Greene County Park Board where she was in charge of summer day camp, before and

after school programming, and youth basketball. She also has experience as a swim coach, instructor, and lifeguard. Her duties will include oversight of facility reservations, dog park, concessions and aquatic programming.

Griggs Honored by WIN for ColumbiaColumbia Parks & Recreation Director Mike Griggs was honored by the “Women’s Intersport Network (WIN) for Columbia” at their 19th Annual Awards Luncheon. Keynote speaker Stephanie White, Head Coach for Indiana Fever (WNBA), presented Mike with the Kent Heitholt Memorial Award for his positive influence and support of women in sports.

In his various department roles throughout the years, Mike has overseen improvements to existing sport facilities, as well as the development of new sport complexes to accommodate athletes in Columbia’s growing community. Mike and his staff have worked with local schools and colleges with inadequate sport facilities to provide golf, tennis, softball, baseball, soccer and swimming facilities for their practices, games and/or tournaments. Thanks, WIN for Columbia for recognizing him!

Lockwood Retires After 45 Years of ServiceBill Lockwood, former director of the Jefferson City Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department, retired March 4 after a distinguished 45 year career in the parks and recreation profession.

A University of Missouri graduate, Bill was the first Parks and Recreation Director for the city of Fulton where he served for four years. Bill worked eight years for Columbia Parks & Recreation as Parks Management Supervisor and as the Superintendent of Park Planning and Development. His notable accomplishments while at Columbia were the acquisition and conversion of

Lake of the Woods public golf course, the acquisition and development of the MKT Parkway as the first Rails to Trails project in the state of Missouri, and the planning and construction of the Rainbow Sports Complex, still one of the premier sports complexes in the state.

For 33 years, Bill served as Director in Jefferson City. Bill inherited a previously run down and poorly maintained park system. Under his leadership, Bill renovated and modernized major facilities such as the Washington Park Ice Arena, the Optimist Sports Complex, the Memorial Park Family Aquatic Center, the Binder Park Softball Complex, the Oak Hills Golf Center, and Ellis-Porter Riverside Pool; developed the greenway master plan linking the KATY Trail to the Capitol and Lewis and Clark Trailhead Monument; and many other projects. Perhaps the most significant accomplishment of Bill’s tenure in Jefferson City was the passage of the local parks sales tax which will provide, for the long range stewardship of Jefferson City’s 1,400 + acre park system.

Bill has been a member of NRPA and MPRA for over 45 years, having served MPRA as president, treasurer, board member, legislative committee member, founding chairman of the Missouri Recreation and Parks Hall of Fame and as a founding trustee of the MPR Trust. He currently serves as the MPRA liaison to the Conservation Federation of Missouri Board of Directors.

Bill’s numerous awards include the MPRA Fellow Award and the University of Missouri Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Eye of the Tiger Distinguished Career Achievement Award. He was recently inducted into the Dean’s List of the American Institute of Park Executives, becoming only the fourth person from Missouri and one of only 33 nationwide to be inducted. On January 29, the Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce honored Bill with the William W. Quigg Award for his lifelong leadership, vision, and dedication to the Jefferson City community.

Under Bill’s leadership, the Jefferson City Parks and Recreation Department has been honored with many recognitions including, the MUSCO Lighting Give Back Award, the MPRA Outstanding Program Award, and the MPRA Citation Award.

He is an active member of the First United Methodist Church having served on its Administrative Committee and Board of Trustees. He is a member of the Breakfast Rotary Club, the Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce, the Jefferson City Convention and Visitors Bureau Athletic Events Committee, the Capital Region Medical Center Board of Governors, and a Paul Harris Fellow.

Bill has been married to his wife Lu for almost 46 years, and they have two daughters, Lauren and Melissa.

Photo

by: K

ile Brew

er

Bill Lockwood receives a Key to the City from Mayor Carrie Tergin.


ANNOUNCEMENTS

Columbia Staff Receives Lifesaver AwardSeveral staff members from Columbia Parks & Recreation’s Activity & Recreation Center (ARC) received the City’s Lifesaver Award from the Columbia Fire Department. When a patron at the ARC experienced sudden

cardiac death while playing pickleball, staff applied their training, using resuscitation and AED to save his life.

Missouri Loses a Key Parks and Rec EducatorDr. Gary G Shoemaker passed away on December 26, 2015, at the age of 74 in his home in Springfield, MO. Gary served as Coordinator of Recreation and Leisure Studies at Missouri State University until his retirement.

Dr. Shoemaker was an active member of the Missouri Park & Recreation Association (MPRA) for many years. Over the years, he served as the board secretary, program chairperson for the annual conference, chairperson of the constitution committee, and chairperson of the study and research committee. He was also heavily involved in the association’s Leisure Educators Section the Missouri Park & Recreation Scholarship Charitable Trust.

Dr. Shoemaker was an influential leader within MPRA and played and very important role in educating many of the parks and recreation professionals throughout our state. He will truly be missed.

A Bright Spot from a Ferguson FriendBy Stan Kreitler, former Director, Ferguson Parks & Recreation

After 40 years, I retired about a year ago from the City of Ferguson Parks & Recreation department. A lot can happen in 40 years: during my tenure, we renovated the Aquatic Center and the Sports Complex at Forestwood Park, creating the city’s first Community Center. The wonderful team in my

department developed new programs, instructed professional seminars and receive a “Playful City USA” designation from KaBoom! Our “Live Well Ferguson,” a healthy community initiative through the Missouri Foundation for Health, is widely recognized as a great example of citizens working together to become more vibrant through better nutrition and physical activity. Over the years, we received 10 Municipal Park Grants totalling over $1.4 million. One of our brightest spots was raising funds to create the Lighthouse in January Park Lake honoring Dave Smith.

While I’m no longer involved in the day-to-day operations with the department, I will never forget the awesome staff I was privileged to work with over the years. I know that Ferguson will continue to grow and thrive!

Wentzville Parks & Rec Welcome New StaffThe Wentzville’s Parks & Recreation Department is excited to welcome two new Recreation Coordinators, Patrick Logel and Hannah Sinclair, to its team.

Patrick is coordinating adult and youth sports, concessions and outdoor field reservations for the department. Before accepting the position with Wentzville, Patrick worked part -time for the City of St. Charles Parks and the City of Chesterfield. Patrick graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor of Science in Parks, Recreation and Tourism. While at the University of Missouri, he worked with the football team in video operations.

Hannah is programming the preschool and youth activities, along with summer-camp programs. Hannah is a graduate of Southern Illinois University-Carbondale with a degree in hospitality and tourism management. She most recently worked for the City of Bowling Green’s Parks & Recreation Department as Director. Hannah says her love for parks and recreation has grown, now that she is combining her

event-planning skills with her hobbies (children, fitness and the outdoors). Wentzville is excited to have such passionate and eager individuals join its team.

Springfield Renames Ice Rink in Honor of Longtime Hockey Advocate

Springfield Ice Hockey advocate and longtime Missouri State Ice Bears general manager Stan Melton was honored January 22 as the Springfield-Greene County Park Board unveiled a new name for Mediacom Ice Park’s East Rink

The home ice for the Missouri State Ice Bears and the Springfield Express junior-A hockey teams is now known as the Stan Melton Ice Rink. The surprise honor was presented in a pre-game ceremony, as the Ice Bears hosted the University of Missouri.

Melton, who was “completely shocked” by the rename, was recognized for his tireless efforts to establish, promote, and grow the sport of ice hockey in the Ozarks.


ANNOUNCEMENTS

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Jeff Atkins has been named Assistant Director of the City of St. Joseph, MO - Parks, Recreation, & Civic Facilities Department. In this position, Jeff oversees the activities of the Remington Nature Center, Joyce Raye Patterson Senior Center, Civic Arena, Missouri Theatre, and maintenance division of the department. Jeff has thirty years’ experience

in the field of parks and recreation. Previously he served as of Maintenance Electrician, Field Supervisor, Superintendent of Parks and now, Asst. Director for the department. Jeff holds the Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) designation from the National Recreation and Park Association, Certified Pool Operator (CPO) designation from the National Swimming Pool Foundation and is a graduate of the Missouri Park and Recreation Associations’ Lyle B. Beaver Leadership Development Institute. He also served twenty-three years as a United States Navy Seabee in Naval Mobile Construction Battalion Fifteen, retiring in 2010.

The City of St. Joseph Parks, Recreation, & Civic Facilities Department also welcomes Julie Noel. Julie holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master’s in instructional technology from Northwest Missouri State University. She transferred to the department from Planning and Community Development. Beginning in the Human

Resources department in 1997, she has extensive knowledge of employment law, workers compensation, risk management, the city

policies, procedures, and the services provided to St. Joseph. Julie’s role will be as Special Events and Communications Coordinator, responsible for coordinating and promoting special events, administration of the parks website and social media accounts, and print publications.

David Cavin is another addition to the St. Joseph Parks, Recreation, & Civic Facilities team as Recreation Programs & Facilities Supervisor. David received a degree in physical education with an emphasis in recreation administration and athletic coaching from Missouri Western State University. With several years of experience working in youth

and adult recreation programs, he will direct adult softball, youth basketball, tennis, and volleyball programs plus lead the operation and maintenance of the 5 field Bill McKinney Softball Complex.

Jannie Castanada has joined the St. Joseph Parks, Recreation, & Civic Facilities Department as the Recreation Programs Coordinator. She received her bachelor’s degree in recreation sports management with a concentration in recreation from Missouri Western State University. She has five years of experience with the department as an intern,

part time, and seasonal employee. She has worked at Fairview Golf Course and has served as a youth basketball scorekeeper/referee for the youth basketball program.

St. Joseph Makes New Parks, Recreation & Civic Facilities Department Additions

2016 CALENDARApril 15, 2016 Leadership Retreat; Jefferson City, MO

April 21, 2016 Southwest Region Mini-Conference; Nixa, MO

April 22, 2016 Northwest Region Mini-Conference; Kansas City, MO

May 9, 2016 - Northwest Region Golf Tournament, Kansas City, MO

June 10, 2016 MPRA Board Meeting; Jefferson City, MO

August 24-25, 2016 Executive Forum; Leawood, KS

September 9, 2016 MPRA Board Meeting; Jefferson City, MO

October 3-4, 2016 Aquatic Facility Operator Course; St. Louis, MO

October 5-8, 2016 NRPA Conference & Expo; St. Louis, MO


ANNOUNCEMENTS

Clayton Parks & Recreation Department Hosts Fox Sports Midwest Winter Classic The City of Clayton Parks & Recreation Department was proud to host the Fox Sports Midwest Winter Classic at the historic Shaw Park Ice Rink for the first time. The Winter Classic is a live on-site broadcast of a St. Louis Blues away-game. Skaters and spectators watched the team face off against the Toronto Maples Leafs on the four big-screen televisions set up around the rink.

The event was a huge success thanks to some great friends: St. Louis County Parks lent additional skates, maximizing the number of fans that could get out on the ice. Clayton’s local food trucks, Straub’s Smoker and Vincent Van Donut, sold food to hungry fans’ since the rink does not currently operate concessions. Hall of Famers Brett Hull and Bernie Federko, former Blues player Jamie Rivers, Pat Parris, Jim Hayes, and Blues mascot, Louie all provided a lot of smiles.

While some may consider St. Louis to be only a baseball town, the Blues might have something to say about that! Over 900 fans bundled up and laced up their skates on a cold January night to watch the game. Unfortunately the Blues didn’t win the game, falling 4-1, but the fans still had a wonderful time.

Hundreds of Racers Compete in USA BMX Gold Cup Championship in Springfield The Springfield-Greene County Park Board’s Spokes BMX Raceway hosted hundreds of BMX racers Sept. 25-27 at the USA BMX Gold Cup Championship Central.

BMX racers from 20 states, along with their families, attended the event. Competitors included boys and girls, ages 7 and under through 17 and older, novice through pro.

This was the first USA BMX Gold Cup event hosted in Springfield. The location was selected through the collaborative efforts of the Springfield Sports Commission, Spokes BMX and the Springfield-Greene County Park Board.

“Through our partnership with Spokes BMX and the Park Board, an event like this helps grow this emerging sport locally and regionally while adding awareness to the sporting opportunities it provides,” said Lance Kettering, Executive Director of the Springfield Sports Commission.

While some may consider St. Louis to be only a baseball town, the Blues might have something to say about that!

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Submitted by Janet Bartnik, Liberty Parks & Recreation and Jan Neitzert, MPRA.


The best time to plant a tree? Twenty years ago. The next best time? Today.

That awkward moment when you realize that you’re wearing Nikes but you’re not doing it!

When it comes to building a case for parks and recreation as an essential service, there’s just no question that using the Did You Know campaign aids in telling the story. Stories abound, including the most recent successful ballot vote in Columbia following implementation of a repositioning campaign!

So, why is it that not every agency in Missouri is engaged in the program - one that has resulted in trainings solicited from around the country in 9 states and 2 universities? The Study and Research Committee of MPRA conducted a study in January 2016 to find out. Eighty-eight of you responded to our short survey. Here is what we learned:

Twenty-one respondents representing nine agencies indicated their agency is currently highly engaged in the Did You Know campaign. When asked if they found participations in the DYK campaign beneficial, 100% responded that they did. There were reports of elected officials repeating their Did You Know facts publically, stronger community support, and across the board there is a better understanding of what the department does and how that work affects the lives of the citizens in the community.

Keys to success included: starting small - begin with one medium and grow from there; be consistent with messaging and branding; make DYK a department priority; convene a staff team to spread the work around; and ensure that general facts are connected to the community so they’re relevant to citizens.

Responses from 27 individuals representing 21 agencies stated their agencies were working toward involvement. Still being in early or not-yet-rolled-out implementation stages has not precluded recognizing returns for their efforts. Agencies reported seeing genuine interest among city council members and increased

knowledge of local and regional statistics among staff members. One even reported that simply researching the facts validated staff’s work in the field, resulting in a reenergized effort.

Not surprising, the majority of agencies working toward involvement chose “insufficient staff time” as a barrier to implementation.

Of those respondents indicating that they were once involved but have either ceased or decreased participation (12 respondents, representing 11 agencies), the most common reason for the drop is also insufficient staff time. When asked what MPRA could do to encourage their participation, we heard: adding more material to the program, making the facts more impactful, and providing more Missouri statistics (rather than national) eliminating a step for customization.

When asked if they wished their agencies were still involved in the program, nearly half said yes!

So, here’s a “Catch 22” question: If an agency cannot implement DYK because of insufficient staff time, how could that be solved? How would you make the case, say, for additional staff? Perhaps by making sure elected officials hear and understand the essentiality of what their local departments contribute to their community’s quality of life? Sounds like DYK may hold the key to making the difference all the way around!

How is MPRA responding? The Did You Know Committee created the following plan to help grow the use of Did You Know across our state.

Goal 1: Turn Missouri’s Yellow Lights to Green

• Grow capacity by growing the size of the DYK committee.

• Recruit champions to tell their stories, adding anecdotal information to data and facts.

• Approach those agencies who indicated that they are working toward involvement. Mentor them to implementation.

• Approach those agencies who indicated that they were engaged but have dropped or are slowing participation. Mentor those who desire to reengage to reimplementation.

Goal 2: Revisit the DYK Web site. Make it more vibrant and robust.

• Create a starter kit with the “Top Ten” DYK facts

Goal 3: Create Measurements Tool Kits and make them available for DYK member use.

• Create a list of the measures most useful to a great number of agencies, such as economic impact, property values, community health and wellness, and youth development.

• Develop “calculators” for those measures and place them on the DYK web site for program use.

So, what is keeping your agency from engaging in Did You Know? Your association is standing by to help you “make the case” for your department, your budget, and your career!


Welcome to Our Newest MPRA Members!Aaron Dobson, Maryville Parks & Recreation

Allison Kelly, Student

Amanda Owens, Student

Amy Schroeder, Jefferson City Parks & Recreation

Andrew Bell, Columbia Parks & Recreation

Andy Morgan, Grandview Parks & Recreation

Audrey Osborn, Maryville Parks & Recreation

Ben Laboube, Hermann Parks & Recreation

Brittany Fischer, Liberty Parks & Recreation

Brooke Jameson, DNR - Missouri State Parks

Brooke Smith, Dexter Parks & Recreation

Cameron Leeds, Liberty Parks & Recreation

Cara Wagner, Chesterfield Parks & Recreation

Casey Gaines, Liberty Parks & Recreation

Chris Bunch, St. Charles Parks & Recreation

Chris Crocker, DNR - Missouri State Parks

Christina Roszkowski, Student

Cireena White, Student

Dalton Blackwell, Student

Dan Frost, Columbia Parks & Recreation

Danae Beckett, Springfield-Greene Co Park Board

Daniel Kersting, Springfield-Greene Co Park Board

Daniel Villalobos, Springfield-Greene Co Park Board

Daniele Hogard, Student

Danielle Kruger, St. Charles Parks & Recreation

Darryl Miller, Hazelwood Parks & Recreation

David Willey, Clayton Parks & Recreation

Dianna Schuman, Springfield-Greene Co Park Board

Drew Jordan, Houston Parks & Recreation

Dustin Care, Sikeston Parks & Recreation

Dustin Ludy, Student

Elizabeth Peoples, Student

Ellen Morris, University of Missouri

Emily Russo, Student

Erin Nicole, Student

Gary Kinder, Dexter Parks & Recreation

Gaston Orahood, Dexter Parks & Recreation

Grace Flowers, Student

Grant Purkey, Peculiar Parks & Recreation

Greg Bertoncino, Joplin Parks & Recreation

Gregory Viehman, Hazelwood Parks & Recreation

Haley Williams, Richmond Parks & Recreation

Hannah Faucett, Springfield-Greene Co P ark Board

James Ritter, Grandview Parks & Recreation

Jami Guck, St. Joseph Parks & Recreation

Jamie Rowe, Dexter Parks & Recreation

Jason Cowen, Joplin Parks & Recreation

Jason Young, University of Missouri

Jay Carlisle, Midwest Pool Management

Jay Gallivan, Nixa Parks & Recreation

Jay Garner, Nevco Inc.

Jeff Putman, Springfield-Greene Co Park Board

Jerry Martin, Columbia Parks & Recreation

Jessica Driskell, Student

Jessica Prichard, University City Parks & Recreation

Jill Arnold, Hazelwood Parks & Recreation

John Garber, Student

Jon Gutmann, Richmond Heights - PARC

Jordan Reddin, Student

Jordan Taylor, Student

Josh Linderer, Cape Girardeau Parks & Recreation

Julie Noel, St. Joseph Parks & Recreation

Justin Whipple, Clayton Parks & Recreation

Kaley Coulter, Maryville Parks & Recreation

Kayla Bransetter, Student

Kayla Hruby, Springfield-Greene Co Park Board

Kenneth McClendon

Kirby Clements, Belton Parks & Recreation

Kirsten Hochstetler, Ballwin Parks & Recreation

Kody Clevenger, Student

Kristopher Cottrell, Springfield-Greene Co Park Board

Kristopher Smith, Student

Kyle Teter, Student

Lida Gochenour, Columbia Parks & Recreation

Madeline Mason, Student

Maitland Wells, Student

Matt Vendevoort, Osage Beach Parks & Recreation

Matthew Cox, Student

Mel Waldron, Springfield-Greene Co Park Board

Michael Cox, Student

Molly Foster, Springfield-Greene Co Park Board

Molly Goulding, Student

Molly Koester, Student

Montel Gardner, Student

Nate Williams, Excelsior Springs Parks & Recreation

Patrick Hoffmann, Student

Paul Hartwell, Warrensburg Parks & Recreation

Phil Marler, Rockwood School District

Preston Brethour, Student

Robert Wages, North Kansas City Parks & Recreation

Robert Ward, Dexter Parks & Recreation

Ruth Flanigan, Farmington Parks & Recreation

Sally Geniec, Clayton Parks & Recreation

Sarah Fuller, Springfield-Greene Co Park Board

Sarah Huber, Student

Shannon Gordon, Osborn Hare & Hare, a design studio of Olsson Associates

Stephanie Bruemmer, Jefferson City Parks & Recreation

Steve Casada, Play and Park Structures

Stewart Mackay, All Inclusive Rec

Sue Yerkes, Grandview Parks & Recreation

Tammy Miller, Columbia Parks & Recreation

Taylor Ratcliff, Student

Teresa Johnson, Sunset Hill Parks & Recreation

Tim Snyder, O’Fallon Parks & Recreation

Toni Roper, Ferguson Parks & Recreation

Tony Huynh, Student

Tye Lydon, Salem Parks & Recreation

Tyler Landreth, O’Fallon Parks & Recreation

Vickie Tillery, Grandview Parks & Recreation

Zach Harmening, Nixa Parks & Recreation

Zane Schmeeckle, Springfield-Greene Co

WELCOME

To the Bat Cave!





To the Bat Cave!To the Bat Cave!To the Bat Cave!To the Bat Cave!

It was a series of unique partnerships that made the formation of Hannibal’s second largest park a reality. Hannibal Parks & Recreation officially took over Sodalis Nature Preserve in January of 2016. More than just a place to hike or bike, it will serve as a protected area for thousands of endangered bats. The 185 acres will have several miles of trails, in a town already boasting almost 40 parks.

The openings of the former Lime Kiln Mines, where the bats hibernate in the winter, have now been blocked to protect them from human disturbance. But about three years ago, Kirsten Alvey-Mudd, who grew up in Hannibal, was exploring the area. She remembered the mine passages and entrances located on the bluffs above the city from her childhood and had been fascinated with the bats inside. As an adult and director of Missouri Bat Census, she returned, rediscovering the mines and their inhabitants. After consulting experts from the Missouri Department of Conservation and United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), there was new information about the endangered Indiana bats (whose scientific name “Myotis Sodalis” is the basis for the park’s name).

Prior to this discovery, the total winter population of the Indiana bat in Missouri was estimated to be about 13,000, and experts presumed all bats hibernating in Missouri were located south of the Missouri River. After about 17 miles of passages at Sodalis were mapped by the Cave Research Foundation, the new hibernating number reached at least 168,000! These are

federally endangered bats, and represent one-third of all the Indiana bats known to exist. No other Indiana bat hibernaculum, place of hibernation, of this size occurs anywhere else in the world. Additionally, five other bat species are known to use the property, including the federally endangered gray bat and federally threatened northern long-eared bat.

The Indiana bat has been greatly affected by white-nose syndrome. Permanent protection of important hibernacula is essential to the conservation and protection of affected species. So, conservation officials are hard at work.

Around the time of the discovery, the FWS was negotiating a unique and precedent-setting mitigation package for the Canadian-based Enbridge Energy’s Flanagan South Pipeline Project. FWS established measures for avoiding and minimizing impacts to bat and migratory

bird habitat from the 600-mile pipeline. However, for the unavoidable habitat destruction, they worked with Enbridge to establish a $22 million habitat compensation fund. FWS partnered with a national mitigation expert, The Conservation Fund (CF), which specializes in real estate transactions, to implement a land protection and restoration program to benefit migratory birds and bats.

FWS made CF aware that protection of the former Lime Kiln Mine was the highest priority because of its significance to Indiana bats. CF approached the current owner and, after nearly a year of negotiations, signed a purchase contract on the main mine facility and 185 surrounding acres. Thirty-four individual bat-friendly gates were installed across all mine entrances, some large enough for two semi-trucks side by side! Prior to gating, the entrances invited trespassers on ATV’s and vehicles into the mine, where, by their own admission, they built fires and used the bats for target practice. Another partner, Springfield-based Environmental Works, Inc., removed and restored 2.5 acres of concrete buildings, part of the former limestone processing buildings, tons of garbage, and former mine debris as part of an extensive environmental cleanup.

The City of Hannibal Parks & Recreation Department was approached last year about taking ownership of the property. Parks officials understood the importance of the property for bat habitat in addition to the potential community benefits of a nature preserve within the city limits.

Photos by Steve Orr

Submitted by Mary Lynn Richards, Hannibal Parks & Recreation


New trails through Sodalis extend the current Bear Creek Trail, providing important connectivity through downtown Hannibal. The new nature preserve will also serve as a hands-on laboratory for students of all ages to observe and research bats and nature.

The Hannibal Parks & Recreation Department (HPR) has the biggest role in determining the future of the nature preserve. In addition to providing a trailhead and passive recreation amenities, such as park benches and trash cans, HPR is planning interpretive signage explaining the history of the mines and the importance of the bats.

In cooperation with the city, the FWS will coordinate monitoring, management, and research of bat populations in the mine and on surrounding property. To ensure the property will forever remain a nature preserve, open only to non-motorized low impact recreational use, a conservation easement held by Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation was placed on the property. The Foundation will enforce the terms of the conservation easement in perpetuity and maintain an endowment fund to be used to repair or replace the bat gates if necessary.

The success of this project would not have been possible were it not for the discovery of the bats, recognition of the importance of the site to the conservation and recovery of Indiana bats, the unique mitigation package negotiated by FWS that provided funding, willingness of the HPR to step up and own the property, commitment of the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation to secure the site with a permanent conservation easement, and the persistence of The CF to stitch all the pieces together.

What a wonderful example of cooperative effort!


Scotts MLB Pitch Hit & Run (PHR) is celebrating its 20th consecutive year as the Official Skills Competition of Major League Baseball and all departments in Missouri can host a FREE local event!

MLB PHR is an easily administered one-day program that provides boys and girls ages 7 to 14 the opportunity to showcase their pitching, hitting, and running abilities in either the baseball or softball division. Each year, 720 youngsters nationwide will advance to one of 30 Team Championships at every major league ballpark with the top 24 competitors earning an all-expense paid trip to the National Finals at MLB All-Star Game.

Pitch Hit & Run is an exciting and educational program for kids of all skill levels. From the All-Star players in your town to those just learning the sport, PHR brings families together to enjoy our country’s “National Pastime.” For some lucky youngsters, your local event is just the starting point for an experience of a lifetime. Last summer, two PHR National Finalists came from the state of Missouri - Abby Braby and Kaul Kleeman.

Abby Braby Kaul Kleeman Tipton, MO Miller, MO

Scotts MLB Pitch Hit & Run Celebrates 20 Years

Give the kids in your community the opportunity to feel like All-Stars by signing up to host your own MLB Pitch Hit & Run competition.

Visit www.PitchHitRun.com to sign up today!

visit PitchHitRun.com to register

Open to BOYS and GIRLS AGES 7-14

Email us at [email protected]

2016 Scotts MLB® Pitch Hit & Run™ National FinalsSan Diego, CA

Major League Baseball trademarks and copyrights are used with permission of Major League Baseball Properties, Inc. Visit MLB.com

Submitted by Angie Toebben, Jefferson City Parks & Recreation


Go Ape’s Second Treetop Adventure in Missouri is set to open this month: Residents of the Kansas City metro area will have the chance to swing from the trees this spring thanks to a new partnership between Kansas City Parks & Recreation and Go Ape, the nation’s premier treetop adventure course company.

Beginning construction in January 2016, the new seven-acre high-ropes and zip line course will be located in Swope Park and will offer visitors a 2-3 hour trek through the forest canopy. It will be Go Ape’s first course featuring a double Tarzan swing: a tall rope swing 30 feet high safely landing in a cargo net. Other features include rope ladders, five zip lines up to 500 feet long, and more than 40 other challenging and fun obstacles all more than 40 feet in the air!

“We’re thrilled to have this partnership with Kansas City,” says Go Ape Managing Director Dan D’Agostino. “This will be a unique outdoor experience for residents

and visitors alike. It’s ideal for friends and family outings, corporate team building, and anyone who enjoys a challenge. We hope to get all metro area residents up in the trees.”

Go Ape Treetop Adventure courses inject fun and exhilaration into everyday life by giving guests the unique opportunity to experience the outdoors in a new and adventurous way. All Go Ape courses are designed to allow for a wide variety of skill levels, offering a balanced mixture of challenge and fun.

With a Grand Opening scheduled for April 9, 2016, the course at Swope Park will be Go Ape’s fourteenth course in the United States and its second in Missouri, the first being at Creve Coeur Park in St. Louis. With a 100% capital investment from Go Ape to build the Treetop Adventure course, Kansas City Parks and Recreation will share in the revenue derived from all ticket sales. Go Ape estimates that approximately 70 percent of its guests are new park visitors, and that park partners generally see an increase in visitors by as much as 25 percent.

“This partnership represents the exciting new ways that we’re working to grow the local and regional attendance at our parks,” said Mark McHenry, KC Parks Director. “The adventure course will give residents and visitors an opportunity to get outside and enjoy Kansas City’s largest park, experiencing views of the park that they’ve never seen before.”

Go Ape Treetop Adventure courses offer a first-hand forest ecosystem experience, while also providing exercise, team building and personal confidence building skills. Participants gain access to forest canopies in a low-impact way, allowing them to experience and gain an appreciation for the forest’s richly diverse ecosystem.

Additionally, Go Ape supports the parks and local communities in which their courses are based by taking part in park cleanups, non-native invasive plant removal, and by donating free and discounted tickets to underserved and special needs groups. Last year, Go Ape donated more than $620,000 in free and reduced-price tickets to local community groups.

The ONE resource for allof your playground,site furnishings, shade,and shelter needs.

Steve Casada

[email protected]

Missouri & S. Illinois

Go Ape, KC Parks Parntership a Win for Park Goers, Outdoors Enthusiasts and Mother NatureSubmitted by Heidi Downer, KCMO Parks & Recreation


February 23-26, 2016 • Columbia, MO

Continuing to Build on a Solid Foundation

Highlights from

What a great way to begin celebrating the 50th anniversary of Parks, Recreation and Tourism at Mizzou. MPRA had its humble administrative beginnings in our Clark Hall offices back in 1977 and our relationship has never been stronger. Our profession is rich with alumni who work in a wide variety of locations ensuring healthy access to recreation and leisure for everyone. I cannot be prouder of the work put into this conference by our faculty, staff, students, Mizzou Rec Center staff and Mizzou Athletics. In cooperation with Columbia Parks & Recreation staff we have committed time and resources to preparing and offering another outstanding conference. Thank you to all attending and please be on the lookout for summer events in Kansas City, St. Louis and Columbia celebrating our 50th anniversary.

Sincerely,

Dr. David Vaught 2016 Conference Co-Chair

On behalf of the 2016 MPRA Conference Committee, it’s our privilege to thank the delegates, vendors, students, sponsor and other colleagues who joined us here in Columbia February 23-26. We are especially grateful to all our honored speakers, who took the time to prepare sessions designed to educate, inspire, and motivate us to become better parks and recreation professionals.

We couldn’t have done it without the assistance of Dr. David Vaught and the University of Missouri Parks, Recreation, and Tourism students, faculty, and staff. Their contributions to tours, socials and session content cannot be overstated - and what a great way to celebrate their 50th anniversary!

As every conference committee member knows, each year is a challenge to provide what our members ask for: pouring over hundreds of evaluations, we try to respond in ways that make every aspect of the week fresh - and better. That was the case this year:

- The new and more dynamic conference mobile app was introduced, allowing for comprehensive speaker information, sharing, and evaluations. The app was used by 782 unique visitors, who viewed over 45,000 total pages!

- Social settings provided unique venues for Tuesday and Wednesday nights: the Columns

Club overlooking Faurot Field and the casual comfort of Riechmann Pavilion at Stephens Lake Park.

- A new format for the Thursday Luncheon, allowing for enhanced student/professional interaction, and a bonus address from Susan Trautman, Chair of NRPA’s Board of Directors, who gave us the “view from the top” and made us look forward to NRPA in St. Louis this October.

This year’s theme was “Building on a Solid Foundation.” You can keep that growth going by committing to make next year’s conference even better. How? You can present an education session - your knowledge and experience is priceless! You can also volunteer - it’s not difficult, but every single helpful person makes a difference. Please contact Cindy Shook and offer your assistance - and mark your calendars for March 7-9, 2017 for all the education and fun in wonderful Branson.

Sincerely,

Mike Griggs 2016 Conference Co-Chair

Gabe Huffington @GeHuffCPRD Great kickoff to the #MPRA2016 conference in Columbia! @Matthes8 #CPRD

Joseph Seastrom CPRP @JosephSeastrom Learning some great info from case studies of @ACAcamps crisis hotline. #MPRA2016 Some good resources here: http://www.acacamps.org/

resource-library/camp-crisis-hotline …

Parkway-Rockwood Community EdOur sports staff are collaborating with peers from around the state and learning best practices in the field of

recreation this week at the Missouri Park and Recreation Association conference in Columbia, MO #MPRA2016

The Heights @THEHEIGHTSRH 15.2 percent of children don’t get any exercise at all daily. Let’s start taking them to the park to play. #MPRA2016

Cunningham RecreationEnjoying another successful MPRA. Proud to partner with them. Great job

Gary and Sarah. #MPRA2016

Matt Boehner@CPRD_Planning Congratulations to Adam Peper, Michael Davis, Don LaChance,

Stuart Duncan, Don Gerling, Eilien Ramirez, & Danielle Reecht... #MPRA2016

Steve Clark @brewersfansteve Incredible session by Tom Johnston regarding thinking “outside” the box when it comes

to outdoor fitness. #MPRA2016

Ballard*King@BallardKing Great opening session by @MU-PositiveCoach today and a good expo hall. Fun stuff! #MPRA2016

Mike Griggs@MikeGriggsCPRD Social equity in parks means keeping environment clean, providing parks/playgrounds

in all areas & =access to rec programs. #mpra2016

Tyler Tapps, Ph.D. @DrTapps Dr. Ferg about to get his award. Surrounded by @NWHealthSciWell @NWMOSTATE students, faculty

and family. #MPRA2016

CONFERENCE CHATTERCONFERENCE CHATTER

#MPRA2016



2016 MRPA FELLOWS

Erika Coffman, FellowErika Coffman has worked in parks and recreation since 1991 and upon her 2001 arrival in Columbia as the Director of the Activity and Recreation Center (ARC), she quickly became involved in MPRA. She volunteered to assist Columbia Parks & Recreation in hosting many MPRA conferences and seminars. Through her early contacts, Erika was quickly sought after to take on more responsibility in the association. Her involvement increased exponentially until she was elected MPRA Board President. Erika is currently involved with MPRA by working on the Lyle B. Beaver Leadership Development Institute.

It is her expertise in the area of recreation center management that sets her apart from the others. With a long history of managing high quality recreation facilities, the ARC is one of the premiere facilities in the Midwest. Erika provides Columbians with a premier recreation center at a very modest participant fee, still managing to generate a profit every year since its opening. This allows the Columbia Parks & Recreation Department to support non-revenue producing programs such as Special Olympics.

On an average, Erika hosts several groups every year that are in the process of building a recreation center. She provides them with detailed information on her best-management-practices and has become a key “go-to” person when it comes to public recreation center management.

Erika supports MPRA by encouraging all of her staff to become actively involved with the association. Several are local, state, or regional leaders in their respective fields of aquatics, seniors, at-risk, sports, and golf. She further encourages pursuit of multiple types of certification, is willing to budget and send staff to conferences, seminars, and other training programs.

Freely giving her time to support young professionals and students, she hosts interns year-round at the ARC, placing five to eight students in various programs during the traditional

summer internship season. Erika makes a concentrated effort to spend time with the interns, often serving as a mentor.

The University of Missouri’s PRT enrollment has grown from 100 to over 500 students. As a guest lecturer at many classes ranging from recreation programming to budgeting to risk management, she stresses the importance of state and national involvement. Interns are often given the opportunity to attend MPRA conferences or educational seminars. She makes sure that all interns are MPRA members, as well.

Wayne Dunker, Associate FellowWayne Dunker began working for the City of Crestwood in park maintenance. In 2001 he moved on to the City of Fenton as a Recreation Supervisor where he single handedly turned around their softball leagues to one of the largest leagues in the area, producing more revenue for the program than ever before. In 2007, Wayne moved to the City of Webster Groves as a Recreation Supervisor to expand his programming career. There, he was in charge of one of the largest day camps in the area and also served as the president of the Metro Day Camp Association. He coordinated special events and ran countless programs for adults, children and even animals! During his time at Webster Groves he attained his master’s degree in management. In 2013, Wayne moved on to the City of Clayton where he serves as the Recreation Manager.

Wayne has been involved in many aspects of MPRA. An MPRA member since 2001, he served as a conference speaker, and was on the auction committee for two years. Wayne is a graduate of the Lyle B. Beaver Leadership Development Institute, has served as the Southeast Region Membership chair, co-chaired the region golf tournament, educational chair (co-chairing and chairing the always successful mini-conference), and served on the MPRA Executive Board as Secretary/Treasurer. He is also a member of the MPRA Sports Section and was recently elected to the MPRA Board as a Director-At-Large.

Erika Coffman (left) receives the MPRA Fellow award from her nominator, Mike Griggs.

Wayne Dunker (left) receives the MPRA Associate Fellow award from his nominator, Steve Clark.


2016 MRPA FELLOWS

Dr. Jeff Ferguson, Associate FellowDr. Jeff Ferguson joined the faculty at Northwest Missouri State University in 1987 as the first full time faculty member assigned to Parks and Recreation. Over the next 28 years, his vision and leadership played a central role as the department grew from a handful of students to over 200 recreation majors across three areas of specialization.

“Jeff’s natural ability to build relationships with students has been central to this growth and many students see him as family,” said Terry Long, Professor, Northwest Missouri State University. “Alumni regularly frequent his office, invite him to weddings, and send him family photos. One student even sent him a piece of shrapnel taken from his body after a road side bomb struck his vehicle in Iraq. Through these supportive relationships with students, he has truly impacted parks and recreation in Missouri and in many other places.”

Jeff is a long-standing MPRA member and contributor. He currently serves on the MPR Scholarship Charitable Trust Board of Trustees and has chaired the Leisure Educator’s Section four times. He has served multiple terms on MPRA committees, including the Conference Program, Citations and Awards, and Student Professional Day Committees. He demonstrates constant involvement in MPRA student initiatives such as the Student Retreat and attendance at MPRA annual conference and Legislative Action Day.

Jeff believes in the benefits that parks and recreation offers to society, encouraging students and professionals to recognize the inherent link our profession has to the wellness of the community.

THANK YOU TO OUR 2016 CONFERENCE SPONSORS• 2nd Wind Exercise Equipment

• All Inclusive Rec

• Allstate Consulting

• BagSpot Pet Waste Solutions

• Ballard*King & Associates

• BBN Architects, Inc.

• Byrne & Jones Construction

• Cannon Design

• Columbia Parks & Recreation

• Confluence

• Counsilman Hunsaker & Associates

• Crockett Engineering Consultants

• Cunningham Recreation

• Erb Turf Equipment, Inc.

• Fry & Associates

• Jacobs

• Landscape Structures

• Lighting Associates, Inc.

• M&M Golf Cars

• Miracle Recreation

• Musco Lighting

• Planning Design Studio

• Professional Turf Products

• Push Pedal Pull

• SAPP Design Architects

• SSCI - Operation TLC2

• SWT Design

• TNT Golf Car & Motorsports

• University of Missouri Parks, Recreation & Tourism Dept.

• Vermont Systems, Inc.

Dr. Jeff Furgeson (left) receives the MPRA Fellow award from his nominator, Terry Long.

22 Missouri Parks and Recreation • www.mopark.org22 Missouri Parks and Recreation • www.mopark.org

Musco Giveback AwardFrank DvorakNominated by Alyssa Groeteke

Retirement Service AwardSharon RitcheyNominated by Jeffrey Atkins

Retirement Service AwardKyra KaltenbronnNominated by Tom Ott

Retirement Service AwardBill LockwoodNominated by Phil Stiles

Individual Citation Karen RidderNominated by Janet Bartnik

Individual Citation Linda WebsterNominated by Scott Davis

Individual Citation Brand & Sandy CoxNominated by Tede Price

Organization Citation Clay County Senior ServicesNominated by Janet Bartnik

Organization Citation Columbia Cosmopolitan Luncheon ClubNominated by Columbia Parks & Recreation

Organization Citation Starlight Theatre AssociationNominated by Mark McHenry

Public Official AwardMayor Bob McDavidNominated by Mike Griggs

Support Staff AwardEvelyn WesterholdNominated by Gerald Brown

Aquatics Section Distinguished Service AwardAdam PeperNominated by Travis Vancil & Hedy Boone

Aquatics Section Outstanding New Professional AwardMichael DavisNominated by Susan Honeycutt

Sports Section Excellence in Service AwardDon LaChanceNominated by Michael Biedenstein

Sports Section Outstanding Volunteer Coach AwardStuart DuncanNominated by Liz Hickox

2016 AWARD & CITATION WINNERS

Fall 2014 • Missouri Parks and Recreation 23SPRING 2016 • Missouri Parks & Recreation 23

THANK YOU TO THE 2016 CONFERENCE COMMITTEE

Co-Chairs - Mike Griggs & David Vaught

Program Committee: Gabe Huffington, Ron Schmidt, Courtney Deters & Janel Twehous

Sponsorship Committee: Mike Griggs, Erika Coffman & Gabe Huffington

Tours and Site Visits: Mike Snyder, Janet Godon & Brett O’Brien

Transportation and Signage: Steve Evers & Toney Lowery

Expo Hall: Lida Gochenour, Zack Weitkemper & Mark Kottwitz

Auction: Karen Chandler, Travis March, Sarah Bowman & Melinda Pope

Social/Events: Erika Coffman, Stacey Kulik, Matt Boehner, Brian Higginbotham, Jenny Upah & Bobby Chick

Room Host: Cassie Dins, Joey Wilmes & Mary Dewey

Student Activities: Jason Young, Ellen Morris, Ragh Singh & Jenna Fusinatto

Technology: Ryan Atkinson & SJ Idel

Awards: Craig Feldt

Hall of Fame: Ann Schroeder

Promotion: Tammy Miller

Budget: Mike Griggs & Rebecca Stidham

Northeast Region: Janel Twehous & Megan Harrington

THANK YOU FOR ALL OF YOUR DONATIONS!

We’ll be shipping one pallet of clothes, toys, and sports

equipment to Africa thanks to your generosity.

Please keep an eye out for a similar effort at the 2017

conference in Branson!

These individuals received an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2016 MPRA Conference and Expo. Find out how you can apply for a professional scholarship to the 2017 conference at www.mopark.org.

Jessica Sida Donna Kay Taylor Travis Vancil

Park Resources Section Distinguished Service AwardDon GerlingNominated by Kyra Kaltenbronn

Fitness, Health & Wellness Section Distinguished ServiceEilien RamirezNominated by Steve Clark

Southeast Region Outstanding New ProfessionalDanielle ReechtNominated by Liz Groeteke

“I think [the conference] offered many great opportunities for students to network with professionals. There was great representation from several schools in the room hosts. I think this definitely should be continued to sell them on the benefits of MPRA early.”

“Dr. McGuire was incredible to listen to; his style of presenting was very easy to follow, kept your interest, not dry or monotonous very conversational. And, the topic was so inspiring it made me want to create change for my own staff and hope for change in my managers.”

2016 AWARD & CITATION WINNERS

2016 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS


Sources: 2016 Conference Evaluations & EventMobi

405 Delegates Attended

82% attended conference for the

Networking Opportunities

90.5%attended the Expo Hall

rated the Education Sessions better than average76%

3 out of 4people plan to attend the

2017 Conference in Branson, MO on March 7-10.

$7,500was raised by the Silent Auction

students registered as Room Hosts:157

BY THE NUMBERS

attended conference for Education Sessions

89.6%

unique visitors to the Mobile App782


As a new professional, this year’s conference was very educational for me. It reassured my confidence in the selection of my career path. Surrounded by all of my peers and mentors in their element, I couldn’t imagine having chosen any different profession, I knew that I was in the right place.” - Jessica Sida, professional scholarship winner

“The students really impressed me this year. They werevery outgoing and not afraid to walk up to you andintroduce themselves. They all seemed really eager tolearn and very passionate. I’m looking forward to whatthey all bring to the field when they enter the workforce.”- Travis Vancil, professional scholarship recipient

SPRING 2016 • Missouri Parks and Recreation 25

CONFERENCE SNAPSHOTS


The top CODP athletes included:Rachel Dwyer, representing CODP tennis, is sixteen and has played varsity tennis at Glendale High School in Springfield since her freshman year. As a sophomore, she won high school districts and sections and qualified for the state high school championship. Now a junior, she has also qualified for state this year. Dwyer was nominated to 2015 Best of Southwest Missouri Preps in June and was recognized as an American Family Insurance ALL-USA Ozarks Performer of the Week in August. She holds a 4.9 grade point average and serves as co-captain of the Glendale girls’ tennis team.

Chance Coger, representing CODP ice hockey, is fifteen, from Nixa, and started playing hockey in 2010. As a forward, Coger helped take his team to 2013 Missouri Hockey PeeWee State Championship. In 2014, he was a member of the second-place Missouri Hockey bantam team which earned the Northern Edge Award. Last season, his team, the Springfield Spirit, won the Mid America High School Hockey League championship. He also played with the Springfield Express practice squad last season and he’s currently attending the Okanagan Hockey Academy in Penticon, British Columbia, Canada.

Jacob Nanney, representing CODP archery, is seventeen and began shooting archery at age 10. He was the Archery Shooters Association State Champion in youth pins (2012) and young adult (2013). In 2014 and 2015, he was a Show-Me State Games young adult champion. He took first-place (2014) and third-place (2015) titles with the Missouri Bowhunters Association. He is a 2015 Missouri Archery Association State Champion and has

earned both the Silver and Bronze Award with the Junior Olympic Archery Development Program. He is currently a senior at Republic High School in Republic and is dual enrolled at Ozark Technical Community College, where he is studying to be a firefighter.

Gerri Idos, representing CODP volleyball, is eighteen and began playing CODP volleyball in fifth grade. In 2013, her team took second place at the USA Volleyball Girls’ Junior National Championship (15 and under.) She was also named a USA Volleyball All American (15 and under.) Idos, now a senior at Kickapoo High School in Springfield, is captain of the school’s volleyball team as well as her USA Volleyball club

team. She has earned all-district and all-region volleyball honors and was also on the all-state academic team. She currently holds a 5.0 grade point average and is ranked No. 1 in her class.

Gerri Idos was also named the top CODP Athlete of the Year.

The CODP provides young athletes access to some of the best training, facilities, programs, and coaches, enhancing athletes’ ability to compete in Olympic and Paralympic sports. Since its formation in 1996, the CODP has introduced more than 500,000 youth athletes to Olympic and Paralympic sports across the country.

The Greater Springfield CODP was established in 2003 currently includes Archery, Ice Hockey, Tennis and Volleyball programs. Athletes involved in CODP programs receive holistic mental and physical training in their sport, both in the competitive arena and off the field. The program includes nearly 600 athletes and has an outreach to nearly 2,000 youth. Many CODP athletes have gone on to compete at the collegiate, state and national levels.

CODP Athlete of the Year Honors Top Youth Athletes in Archery, Ice Hockey, Tennis and VolleyballThe Greater Springfield Community Olympic Development Program (CODP) and the Springfield-Greene County Park Board honored four youth athletes and named the Athlete of the Year October 18, at the first CODP Athlete of the Year reception.

COPD athletes (left to right): Rachel Dwyer, Chance Coger, Jacob Nanney and Geri Idos

Submitted by Jenny Edwards, Springfield - Greene County Park Board

The best programs start with the best coaches. The best coaches start with Coach Youth Tennis.

Learn how to:

• Teach tennis skills and fundamentals

• Organize age appropriate games and activities

• Communicate more effectively with children

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NRPA is Coming to St. Louis! YOU can get involved!

Tuesday, October 4 - Saturday, October 8, 2016

The 2016 Local Host Committee needs VOLUNTEERS before, during, and after the NRPA Conference!

Interested in Volunteering? Fill out a quick online form at:

http://bit.ly/NRPAin2016

Visit http://www.nrpa.org/volunteer for more information about volunteering directly with NRPA (room hosting,

ticket taking, conference registration desk, etc.) for discounted conference registration fees.

Also Needed: DONATIONS (coupons, food, etc.) to thank these volunteers!

Volunteer Questions? Michael Biedenstein - St. Louis County

[email protected] Tyler Landreth - O’Fallon [email protected]

Local Host Questions? Kyra Kaltenbronn

[email protected]


Great Rivers Greenway is partnering with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and the City of Wellston, MO, to transform a vacant lot at the corner of Skinker and Etzel into a vibrant community park. The project is part of NRPA’s Parks Build Community initiative, which aims to demonstrate the transformative value of parks and recreation on communities across the country. Plans are underway for the new Trojan Park, named after the former high school in Wellston, and the park will open on Oct. 8, 2016, during NRPA’s Annual Conference. With contributions from national vendors and local companies alike, this partnership aims to create a safe place for families to gather and play.

The site chosen for the park is located along the St. Vincent Greenway, a seven-mile urban paved greenway that will connect regional hub Forest Park to multiple transit stops and the University of Missouri-St. Louis. The ultimate goal is to create a dynamic gathering space that transforms the local community and is embraced and treasured by residents for years to come. NRPA will work with its national partners and suppliers to provide equipment donations for the site, based on input from Wellston residents ranging from a multi-sport court (including full-court basketball), playgrounds for all ages, a pavilion for family reunions or movie nights, and a splashpad for summer fun. Donors are even contributing lighting, benches, trash cans and bike racks.

“The city of Wellston is thrilled for the opportunity to establish a new park,” said Mayor Nathaniel Griffin. “We want to do

everything we can to give kids a great place to play and our whole community a space to come together.”

The city of Wellston and Great Rivers Greenway are coordinating with the local community to bring this park to life. Nonprofit partner Beyond Housing is donating their services to engage residents, ensuring this park directly reflects community priorities. Forum Studio, David Mason and Associates, Kozeny-Wagner, Inc., Lochmueller Group, EFK Moen, LLC and Geotechnology, Inc. have all contributed in-kind gifts to supplement the design, engineering, pre-construction and construction management services, signal modification, surveying and subsurface exploration, respectfully. SWT Design is donating a maintenance plan and St. Louis County Parks is contributing operations and maintenance once the park is built, in partnership with Wellston. Great Rivers Greenway is coordinating the project and funding site preparation.

“We are so grateful to the local and national vendors who have stepped up to bring a very deserving community the transformative benefits that a local park can provide,” said Susan Trautman, Executive Director of Great Rivers Greenway.

Trojan Park represents the sixth Parks Build Community project aligned with the NRPA Annual Conference. The St. Vincent Greenway is part of the regional network of greenways that Great Rivers Greenway is creating to connect people to their rivers, parks and communities.

Join 7,000 other park and recreation professionals for inspirational education sessions, energetic networking activities and an inside look at amazing products. The National Recreation and Park Association Conference will provide hundreds of education and learning opportunities through educational tracks specifically tailored to parks and recreation.

New Park Coming to Wellston as Part of National Recreation & Park Association’s Parks Build Community Initiative

Submitted by Emma Klues and Pamela Powell


1. From Dreams to Reality: What’s New in Facility Design? Tour several new community recreation facilities in the St. Louis area, including Maryland Heights, Bridgeton, University of Missouri, and the O’Fallon Center in St. Louis and learn how they were designed, financed and plans for operation. Tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, October 4, 8 am-5 pm.

2. Partners in Play: Exploring Creve Coeur Park Tour St. Louis County’s Creve Coeur Park and learn about public private partnerships that exist to boost park attendance and revenue! Participants will have the opportunity to experience the Go Ape Challenge Course, kayak, canoe, bike, hike, and more! Tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, October 4, 10 am-4pm.

3. Downtown St. Louis Walking Tour The Downtown St. Louis Walking Tour will be a 2-mile tour highlighting the history, renovations, programming and funding of these public spaces: Old Post Office Plaza, Gateway Mall, Citygarden, Kiener Plaza, Old Courthouse, Arch Grounds, Leonor K. Sullivan Boulevard, Laclede’s Landing, and Washington Avenue. Learn about the successful private-public partnership developed to fund and make this renovation a reality! Tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, October 4, 1:30-4 pm.

4. Eagles, Elk, and Owls, Oh My! Tour two adjacent and truly unique St. Louis County facilities. Lone Elk Park is a 400 acre publicly owned fenced animal display site with free-roaming Elk and Bison. Next door is the 300 acre privately owned World Bird Sanctuary whose mission is the propagation and rehabilitation of sick and injured raptors such as eagles, owls, and hawks as well as the education of the public in various environmental issues. The tour of both facilities will include the rehabilitation hospital, propagation facilities, training facilities and meetings with various veteran staff with regard to habitat management, rehabilitation and educational programs offered throughout the country. Tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, October 4, 1-5 pm.

5. Green In Between: River des Peres Greenway Tour The 2-mile River des Peres Greenway Walking Tour will highlight the transportation and recreation connections and stormwater management that the greenway provides. Tour participants will explore the developing corridor that connects neighborhoods, parks and businesses with a light rail station, local greenways and the other on-street bike network. Tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, October 5, 9 am-12noon.

6. Henry Shaw Legacy Tour The tour will visit the Missouri Botanical Garden and Tower Grove Park, which were both established by Henry Shaw. At the world renowned Garden the group will be given tours lea by Kevin Mattingly, Manager of Maintenance and Special Projects and Jim Cocos, Senior Manager of Horticulture Operations. Departing the Garden, the tour will proceed to the adjacent Tower Grove Park, the best example of a Victorian Park in the United States. Tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, October 5, 1-5 pm.

7. Partnerships with the Past, Present and Future: Jefferson Barracks Park Tour the many facets of St. Louis County’s Jefferson Barrack’s Park and learn about its historic significance as well as the public private partnerships that were forged to make trails, greenways, and a new community recreation center a reality. Tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, October 5, from 9 am-2 pm.

8. Paving the Way for All to Play Learn how to hear the true needs of your community when building a playground for all children to play and how to make friends along the way that will help you reach your goal. Tour three cities in St. Charles County that partnered with various local organizations and Unlimited Play, Inc. to build three very different playgrounds making a large impact within their communities. Learn from each of them about the different phases from committing to the project, to design, to build, to daily maintenance of operating an accessible playground. Tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, October 5, 9 am-3 pm.

9. Touring Forest Park: A Revitalized and Treasured Resource Across four key stops within the 1,300-acre Forest Park, learn how the City of St. Louis, the nonprofit conservancy Forest Park Forever and world-class park institutions partner to create a vibrant, thriving community jewel and natural resource where 13 million annual visitors explore, celebrate and connect! Tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, October 5, 9 am-3 pm.

Proposed 2016 NRPA Conference Off-Sites

NRPA Opportunities to Benefit Our State Association:

• Off-Site Tours• 5K Fun Run/Walk• Golf Tournament

Registration for the entire conference opens May 2016 at www.NRPA.org/conference2016


Thank You to the Local Host Committee for NRPA Congress 2016

Co-Chairs: Kyra Kaltenbronn, retired from St. Louis County; Alicia Stellhorn, St. Louis City

Golf Tournament Committee: Gerald Brown, Sunset Hills; Scott Davis, Webster Groves

Hospitality Committee: Brian Schaffer, Des Peres; Miki McKee Koelsch, Webster Groves; Maralee Britton, St. Charles

Fun Run/Walk Committee: Jakcee McCall, O’Fallon; Tom Ott, St. Louis County; & Tom McCarthy, Chesterfield; Michael Biedenstein, St. Louis County; Patty DeForrest, Clayton; Tyler Landreth, O’Fallon; Eric Gruenenfelder, Brentwood

Accessibility Committee: Eric Gruenenfelder, Brentwood; Terri Johnson, MPIR; Danielle Reecht, O’Fallon; Cheryl Thompson, Florissant; Crissy Withrow, Midwest Pool Management

Off-Site Institutes Committee: Linda Bruer, Ballwin; Maggie Martin, St. Louis County; Teresa Proebsting, Richmond Heights; Lisa Blumer, Ellisville; Bill Reininger, Tower Grove Park; Elizabeth Simons, Great Rivers Greenway; Nancy Whitener, Ferguson

Program Committee: Kirsten Barnes, Five Star Recreation; Brian Schaffer, Des Peres

Promotion: Marketing & Communication Committee: Maralee Britton, St. Charles; Chris Atkinson, St. Charles; Emma Klues, Great Rivers Greenway

Leisure Park Committee: Craig Feldt, O’Fallon; Scott Davis, Webster Groves; Brian Schaffer, Des Peres

Thank you also to CTS Group for donating polos for the local host committee!

5K Fun Run/Walk Friday, October 7, 7:30 a.m.

Golf Tournament Wednesday, October 5

The Course at Forest Park

Don’t miss!


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