Park Conversations Spring 2023

CONVERSATIONS park

Welcome back to Park Conversations, where we share stories of our parks, programs, and the people we serve. After several years of only producing a digital version, we are thrilled once again to share this magazine with you. At the root of each story is how Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation is here to support you as a member of our community.

I hope the articles in this edition both inspire and inform you. From helping individuals achieve their goals to providing rewarding ways to give back to others, this issue highlights the experiences and lasting memories that unfold every day in your awardwinning park and recreation system.

Whether you’re an active user of our programs and facilities or simply enjoy seeing natural areas and greenspace being preserved throughout the city, Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation is here to serve you. However you engage with us, we look forward to being the best part of your day!

Recreationally yours,

Michael W. Klitzing, CPRE Director of Parks and Recreation/CEO

We encourage you to share your stories!

A Defining Moment

Championing a new era for our park system

Even the most innovative, well-planned playground will reach its end-of-life after 20 years. To put that in perspective, in 2003 (or 20 years ago) Apple launched its iTunes Music Store and the social network service Myspace was founded. It would be an understatement to say things have changed—culturally, socially and economically —since then. The same can be said about the purpose and expectations of public parks.

“Park systems are an integral part of any community,” shares Michael Klitzing, director for Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR).

“I think in recent years the impact of local parks and recreation facilities has become even more apparent. People are looking to their park agencies to further expand their offerings to meet community challenges like safety and accessibility.”

Since 2019, CCPR has received over $20 million from the Clay Township Impact Program (CTIP). With this investment, CCPR launched its Reimagining Parks initiative which included the renovation of six existing parks throughout Carmel and Clay Township. In fall 2022 CCPR reopened the final reimagined park for the public to enjoy.

“We are incredibly grateful for the funding provided by the CTIP and the work that the Clay Township Board, the Park Board and the Carmel Clay Parks team put into reimagining our parks,” says Rich Taylor, president of the Carmel/Clay Board of Parks and Recreation. “The updates made to the parks reiterate our dedication to listening to our community’s needs and developing world-class park experiences for our community.”

Each park project included input from community leaders, stakeholders, community organizations, the public, and more. CCPR is proud to have worked with industry leaders in playground manufacturing, architecture and landscaping at each reimagined park.

“We faced a unique moment in time for our community during the Reimagining Parks initiative,” shares Klitzing. “It was an opportunity to make park improvements to better serve our community. This new era of our park system will be one that is safer, more accessible and highly innovative. We look forward to the many new memories and experiences that will be had at each of these reimagined parks.”

CAREY GROVE PARK

• Reopened Winter 2021

• Updated playground, yearround restrooms, improved parking, loop trail, and basketball court.

FLOWING WELL PARK

• Reopened Spring 2021

• Cool Creek bank stabilization, year-round restrooms, improved parking, trails, interpretive signage, and park access from Gray Road.

LAWRENCE W. INLOW PARK

• Reopened Summer 2022

• Updated splash pad, pickleball courts, picnic shelters, year-round restrooms, and improved parking.

MEADOWLARK PARK

• Reopened Summer 2022

• Updated playground, year-round restrooms, two shelters, improved parking, pickleball courts, a wheelchair-accessible fishing pier, an accessible boardwalk, and interpretive signage.

RIVER HERITAGE PARK

• Reopened Fall 2022

• New playgrounds with a focus on accessible play, accessible trails, White River overlooks, and updated shelter.

WEST PARK

• Reopened Fall 2022

• Updated playground, splash pad, year-round restrooms, shelters, improved parking, and connectivity to the Jill Perelman Pavilion.

Master Plan — looking forward to 2024-2028:

CCPR’s first priority is determining how to best serve an ever-changing and growing community. Every five years the department develops a new parks and recreation master plan, which is a comprehensive look at the future of CCPR.

Each master plan incorporates input from elected officials, community leaders, stakeholders, community organizations, the public and more. Constituents provide feedback which allows CCPR to create a snapshot in time of the wants and needs of the community.

Be part of CCPR’s next chapter! There will be several opportunities for the community to give feedback throughout the master planning process. Stay tuned to carmelclayparks.com for more information!

LONGTIME MEMBER MARC ZOLNER SAYS THE MCC IS HIS GO-TO WORKOUT HOME

ONE PRICE. ONE PLACE. ALL ACCESS.

Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation’s ads say their memberships are: One Price. One Place. All Access. Longtime Monon Community Center (MCC) member Marc Zolner says that is exactly why he has been working out at the MCC for over 12 years. It’s his true home for everything that keeps him healthy, happy and on-the-move. A true mind, body and spirit community no matter your individual workout goals.

“I chose the MCC for my workouts because it was close to both my home and work, affordable, and the facilities were better and offered more options than anywhere else close by,” says Zolner. “I could run on the track or outside on a trail, lift weights, swim, take a group fitness class, find comradery in my workout sessions, and then have a place to shower and head back to work. I really can do it all right at the MCC.”

For Zolner, his commitment to a health-conscious workout routine started when he was in college in Colorado. Even as a college student, he was at the recreation center working out every day alongside his twin brother. Admittedly, both brothers have a competitive edge and used to run marathons and road races together—especially during their college years.

“We are identical twins, and my brother was a competitive cyclist for years,” Zolner says. “He was always a better runner than I was, but we enjoyed racing and training together. Sometimes, we would wear the same things just to confuse folks (and the girls). That part was fun. We didn’t necessarily grow up in a household with a workout or health-focused routine but we both were drawn to all things running, cycling and strength-based and that became a way of life for both of us. It still is today.”

ADDING ENERGY TO COMMUNITY

In 2008 Zolner did his first Ironman and a second followed in 2010. He had been running marathons since he was 18 and then just took the step up to train for the Ironman, which includes a full marathon run, 2.4-mile swim and a 112-mile bike ride. Training for both the Ironman and triathlons, Zolner says, are a thing of the past but he’s still intent on a daily workout routine.

“As often as I can—every day if I could—I try to get in some morning cardio either biking or running and then attend a strength workout group class during my lunch break,” says Zolner. “The competitive spirit—no matter what level—is alive and thriving during those noon classes.”

Zolner may have given up his racing days, but he is well-known around the MCC for the number of pullups

he can accomplish, and his farmer carries on the track. He’s often described as a motivator and support system for others.

“Marc adds such amazing energy to our community,” says CCPR fitness & wellness supervisor Shannon Strzynski. “Not only is he incredibly fit and dedicated to his own routine, but he encourages those around him to be their best self. He can often be seen organizing workout meet-ups in the fitness center or engaging fellow group fitness members in a friendly competition. He will remind us that his wife is really the athlete in the family, but Marc brings a healthy dose of athleticism, enthusiasm, fun and the best smile to the MCC.”

Everything “state of the art” that you would need for any kind of workout is available at the MCC, shares Zolner. The atmosphere, he continues, is like family with a lot of encouragement and support of one another—and adaptable to whatever level of intensity works for the individual. As Zolner ages, he admits that he’s aware of aching knees and the ability to not exercise as hard as he once did. Finding alternatives to his workout to adapt to his body is something that is important to Zolner and a must as his fitness routines flex and change.

“That is what makes the MCC so special,” Zolner says. “You can find what workout best fits your individual lifestyle and daily workout goals and needs. Everyone is encouraged to move at their own pace, modify their workout and if you want to be competitive with the person next to you–well that is okay too.”

The noontime class is my favorite, and you really develop a sense of community too, so you have workout friends that you see every day at lunch, and it keeps you coming back.

making a difference every day after school

Molly McGeehan radiates positivity. In a conversation with her, you can’t help but soak it in and smile. When asked to describe herself she chose the words outgoing, bright and positive— she’s spot on. These are all qualities that make her an outstanding member of the Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) team.

McGeehan joined CCPR as an Extended School Enrichment (ESE) after-school counselor in 2009. The ESE program offers on-site, after-school care for grades K-6 at all 11 Carmel Clay elementary

schools. As a counselor, she assists with program activities like homework time, enrichment clubs and recess.

“I honestly love kids in general and I think that working with kids is so rewarding,” shares McGeehan. “It’s important for kids to learn about disability awareness, especially from someone with a disability herself. I just love it when kids ask questions because, you know, they’re curious! And I’m more than happy to share my story with them.”

A PASSION FOR SHARING HER STORY

When McGeehan was born, a bleed in her brain caused her to have a stroke. Over the course of the next two years, her parents noticed she wasn’t meeting typical milestones like walking or crawling. At 29 weeks she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. According to the Mayo Clinic, cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture. McGeehan has used a wheelchair since she was 3 years old.

McGeehan has a passion for working with kids and educating them about disability awareness. Even as early as her elementary school days, she participated in a program called Everybody Counts. Through that program she visited elementary classrooms to share her story about living with cerebral palsy.

“It’s so important for people to know it’s okay to ask questions,” she shares. “When I’m at work, my disability disappears. The kids are my world, my main focus, and I forget about my disability. I’m so focused on their needs that I forget about myself.”

MAKING AN IMPACT AT ESE

When McGeehan interviewed to be an ESE afterschool counselor, her now-manager Valeska Simmonds hired her on the spot. McGeehan laughs as she recalls the interview, “Valeska said ‘We want you at Forest Dale (Elementary) and you’re never allowed to leave.’”

McGeehan has worked with Simmonds on the after-school team at Forest Dale Elementary for 14 years now. Their relationship has had a positive impact on them both.

“I enjoy Valeska so much,” McGeehan shares. “She’s so good with the kids, and I’ve learned so much from her. She’s always been at the finish line for me.

“I appreciate all the hard work that Valeska has done to make me successful,” says McGeehan. “She’s been behind me 100 percent since day one. She has given me a chance and I feel very accomplished working at ESE. I feel like I’m a huge part of CCPR.”

McGeehan’s impact on the students and families at Forest Dale Elementary as well as the CCPR team over the years is beyond words. Simmonds shared that McGeehan makes a positive impact on anyone she comes across.

“She is very kind and understanding with the children, and they in turn enjoy being around her,” says Simmonds. “I would say she is a perfect role model for the kids in our program. She is a positive example to the children that nothing can stop you from realizing your dreams and working up to your full potential.”

JOIN MOLLY ON THE CCPR TEAM

At Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation, we believe our differences are what make us better. CCPR is lucky to have McGeehan’s bright, positive spirit on our team. CCPR is always looking for individuals who are passionate about making a positive difference. If you’re interested in joining the CCPR team, visit carmelclayparks.com/work/

My disability doesn’t stop me from doing anything.

VOLUNTEERS

VOLUNTEERS

MAKE A DIFFERENCE, ONE PARK AT A TIME

Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation’s (CCPR) Adopt-APark volunteer-driven program allows everyone from individuals to organizations to care for, nurture and grow an identified park partner, or section of a park, enhancing the park’s beauty and taking ownership of its maintenance. Nothing feels better – volunteers say –than giving back and caring for something so valuable to the community.

“Parks are an integral part of every community. They provide access to nature and better our quality of life. Adopt-A-Park offers an opportunity for the community to help us maintain our parks, trails and natural areas,” shares CCPR volunteer coordinator Caitlin May.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Encouraged to think globally and act locally, Adopt-APark promotes a shared community responsibility to care for and protect our natural resources and have a direct hand in their sustainability and beautification.

“Adopt-A-Park evolved and was designed as a recurring, long-term commitment for volunteers seeking to make a difference in the park system overall, in parks near their neighborhoods, or as an organization's initiative promoting volunteerism,” says May.

“We have individuals who take care of trails, families looking for a volunteer opportunity to impact a park near their home, and we have organizations that have taken on an entire park as their focus. It’s not one size fits all but each and every volunteer makes a difference.”

WHAT IT TAKES

Once interest in the Adopt-A-Park program has been identified, shares May, the process begins with an application that will ultimately combine the interests of the volunteers matched with a CCPR park need. The commitment is usually for one year and the onboarding process includes a background check for the team leader and training.

“We’ve been able to add 11 new adopters in the course of the last year,” May says. “These volunteers, and the time they are investing, are making such a noticeable and valuable impact in our parks. Our hope is to grow Adopt-A-Park by inspiring others to get on board.”

park adopt - a spotlight: nicole sipe

Choosing to adopt my little portion of the Monon Greenway was an easy decision. I use the trail every day—it has given me so much, in the form of a safe and beautiful way to get outside, get fresh air, get exercise and enjoy nature. It makes me happy! So, I wanted to make sure that the trail is as beautiful as it can be. That’s why I joined the Adopt-A-Park program, and that’s why I volunteer to pick up the litter that I see on “my” portion of the trail. We’re fortunate that the parks and greenspaces in Carmel are extremely well cared for in general, so I don’t usually have much litter to pick up. But maintenance crews can’t be everywhere at all times, so I’m happy to do my part as a resident and trail lover.

When I first became an Adopt-A-Park volunteer and the sign with my name on it went up, I took my kids over to see it. My youngest son said, “I didn’t know that regular people could adopt a park!” I think that kind of sums up the Adopt-A-Park experience. Yes, regular people can (and should) adopt a park and make a difference in their community. We tend to think that the upkeep of public spaces is someone else’s job. But we all enjoy these beautiful natural areas. It’s our collective responsibility to be stewards of the earth.

During the pandemic, Nicole Sipe was searching for a way to get outside and keep her mental health strong. She began walking the trails of Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation and found that it was a wonderful way to support her physical and mental health. When she decided to become more than a trail walker and adopt part of the trail to maintain herself— it was a wonderful way to stay involved and beautify the natural areas she was enjoying every day.

The Adopt-A-Park program has given back to me, too. Since joining almost a year ago, I’ve gotten outdoors a lot more. Knowing that I have a little piece of land to take care of and watch over and knowing that my name is on the sign is good motivation to get out of the house and make sure that the area is clean. Because my adopted area is part of the Monon Greenway, it has encouraged me to walk a lot more and I’ve gotten to know many other regulars on the trail. I’ve had many people also come up to me and thank me for picking up litter. If you want to feel like you’re a part of the community and making a difference in your community, the Adopt-A-Park program is a great way to do that.

—Nicole Sipe

MCC One-Stop Training for Triathlon Race

Dublin Ireland’s Celtic Warrior information packet read “races will start bang on time.” For those who might not know what that means, Monon Community Center (MCC) member, Irish transplant and Warrior conqueror Janine Beazley can tell you it means to be prompt, trained-up and mentally ready to undertake quite a feat: A half Ironman triathlon race. Make that a half iron woman race.

“We moved to Carmel almost a year ago now,” says Beazley. “We looked at houses and then my very next stops were to find a workout center. When I toured the MCC I was sold immediately. We unpacked the house, and my husband and I both bought a membership.”

For Beazley, a center that offers everything she needed to work out and train in one location is a must.

“The Irish aren’t built for extreme heat or extreme cold,” laughs Beazley. “The indoor track at the MCC is exceptional for training. I’m on the track, in the pool, participate in spin class three times a week and I use the fitness center as much as I can as well.”

DREAMS=GOALS=REALITY

When she turned 40, Beazley decided it was time for some goal setting. She began to train for the Celtic Warrior race back in Dublin in August of 2022. The race would include a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride and a 13.1-mile run. Before that, her first goal was to run the Carmel half marathon.

“The biking piece of the half Ironman was going to be something I was going to have to really focus on,” Beazley says. “I’ll admit I was a bit apprehensive about my first cycle class, but instructor Brian encouraged me to bike at my own pace and allow my own training to accelerate as I grew stronger and increased endurance.”

SUPPORT TRANSLATES TO SUCCESS

Her first cycling class on a Monday night was a bit daunting Beazley admits as she hadn’t taken one before. She encourages anyone to give it a try.

“You’ll find your flat” Beazley says which is where you feel comfortable and then progress from there based on how fast and difficult you want to make the experience. The Indiana flat roads aren’t ideal for training for the biking piece of the half Ironman, so training through a cycling class became crucial.

“Coming from Ireland, I have to admit the rides outside were beautiful,” says Beazley. “But Brian has a way of bringing the outside into the class by describing the cycling as if we were riding up the Blue Ridge Parkway or cycling past a couple walking their dog. It makes it feel real and he offers steady encouragement. The other cycle classes have incredible music for motivation or a focus on burning calories. Each has their own benefit in my overall workout plan.”

The encouragement and support of all the MCC staff has been key to Beazley’s motivation. She completed the Celtic Warrior in early August with a time of 6 hours and 58 minutes which was 45 minutes quicker than her targeted time. She was surrounded

by her Irish family and Brown Shoes Triathlon Club teammates in Ireland for the celebration. (See photo below.)

Beazley’s career has been spent in administration at center’s just like the MCC and she hopes to become involved again with something in the sport exercise and leisure industry. No wonder, she says, that the MCC felt like home to her.

“Up next is training for Lap the Lough, an 89-mile annual cycle event around Lough Neagh, the largest lake in Ireland and Britain,” Beazley says.

Let the training for the conquering begin. For Beazley, at the MCC of course.

“Being able to train at the MCC made all the difference. I know I had prepared well, and it was just a tremendous feeling to complete the Warrior.”

TOMASSLIVA

Variety is the Spice of Life: Recreation programs delight even the most adventurous at heart

If variety is the spice of life, adaptive recreation program participant Tomas Sliva brings the heat and not just because he enjoys eating hot sauces that can only be purchased after signing a waiver. Sliva keeps life flavorful by continuously finding new ways to satisfy his craving for adventure. And despite his long list of exciting interests, recreation programs at Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) remain a favorite.

FOUNDATIONALLY DIFFERENT

Growing up in the Czech Republic and Sweden, Sliva was fortunate to experience many different cultures throughout his childhood.

Exposure to other worldviews resulted in a lifelong sense of wonder for Sliva. Not only did his upbringing change the way he viewed the world, but his Down

Syndrome diagnosis also changed the way he experienced it.

“Tomas’ friends at school were from Japan, China, Denmark, and many other places around the world,” explains his mother Veronika Slivova. “The children would take turns sharing their cultural dishes like sushi which is still his favorite. I believe this helped him become open to trying new things from an early age.

“Down Syndrome is one disability," shares Slivova. "Obesity is almost like another. We knew as a family prioritizing health, whether that was nutrition, physical activity, mindfulness practices, etc., would be even more important given the higher rates of obesity and sedentary lifestyle in individuals with Down Syndrome.”

Kickbike

Adaptive 5K

Barrier-Free Theatre

“HANG-TEN”-TARY LIFESTYLE

Given the tools and support Sliva received from his family throughout his life, he went on to qualify for Team Indiana’s downhill skiing Special Olympics team, compete in marathons, master kickbiking, and more. That’s why it’s no surprise he was immediately drawn to the FlowRider® on his first visit to The Waterpark in 2017.

FlowRider® is CCPR’s surf simulator with waves that rush up to 30 miles per hour. Sliva participates in Open Flow adaptive recreation programs each summer.

“Tomas is well-known within CCPR for his FlowRider® skills,” shares inclusion program supervisor Kelvin Solares. “People see Tomas shredding waves and think if he can do it, they could easily do it, too. Of course, that isn’t the case. Tomas has great balance and courage.”

BEYOND THE WATER

CCPR offers dozens of adaptive programs each season. Adaptive programs are designed for individuals with disabilities. While the FlowRider® is his favorite, Sliva participates in two other adaptive programs year-round: Barrier-Free Theatre and Adaptive 5K.

“Tomas’ dream is to become a stand-up comedian,” Slivova says. “When we heard other families at Open Flow discuss Barrier-Free Theatre, we thought that would be a great way for him to work on stage presence.”

Barrier-Free Theatre is a form of drama therapy in which participants with and without disabilities work together to write and act in their own production. Barrier-Free Theatre empowers participants, increases self-confidence and improves selfawareness. It also creates a positive, inclusive and creative environment.

“I was nervous to start, so mom joined me at the first session,” shares Sliva. “I immediately loved it and didn’t need her to stay anymore. It’s really fun. I like acting.”

Sliva’s other spring activity is the Adaptive 5K race. He won first place in 2022 and looks to claim that title again in 2023.

HEALTHY VARIETY

New and exciting experiences make life more interesting. Adaptive recreation programs at CCPR have made life more flavorful for Sliva. Despite varying interests, activity levels, abilities, and age, there is a recreation program for everyone at CCPR, even the most adventurous at heart.

I wanted to try surfing right away. It looked so fun. I didn’t want to just body surf though, I wanted to stand. Now I even have my own special board and wet suit. FlowRider®