ALSO INSIDE:
Colorado Professionals Make Waves at International Aquatics & Water Safety Conference
Making a Splash: Your Stress-Free Roadmap to Pool Season
Apex Activated: Podcasting with Heart
COLORADO PARKS & RECREATION ASSOCIATION PO BOX 1037 Wheat Ridge, CO 80034 [P] 303-231-0943
[F] 303-237-9750 cpra@cpra-web.org www.cpra-web.org
Dede de Percin Interim Executive Director deded@cpra-web.org
Rachel Hungerbuhler Professional Development Program Manager rachelh@cpra-web.org
Jillian Galoci (Strogis) Membership & Communications Coordinator jilliang@cpra-web.org
Aleigh Scott Administrative Coordinator aleighs@cpra-web.org
2026 CPRA ADVISORY COUNCIL
AAPS
Debbie Haynie Town of Castle Rock dhaynie@crgov.com
AQUATICS
Sara Schmalfeldt City and County of Broomfield sschmalfeldt@broomfield.org
CARA
Wes Dulin Foothills Park & Recreation District westond@fhprd.org
Amanda Aburto City of Brighton alaburto@brightonco.gov
DIRECTORS Amanda Hobson Pueblo County hobsona@pueblocounty.us
EPIC
Kris Davison
Colorado Byline is the official member magazine of CPRA, Colorado Parks & Recreation Association. CPRA is a dynamic, proactive organization that creates healthy residents and livable communities by promoting excellence in parks and recreation.
Spring 2026 Issue
Content/Ad Deadline: March 19, 2026 | Mails: May 2026
Summer 2026 Issue
Content/Ad Deadline: June 12, 2026 | Mails: Aug. 2026
Fall 2026 Issue
Content/Ad Deadline: October 7, 2026 | Mails: Nov. 2026
Winter 2027 Issue
Content/Ad Deadline: February 5, 2027 | Mails: March 2027
Learn more about advertising at www.bit.ly/CPRA2026.
2025-26 CPRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESIDENT Ali Rhodes City of Boulder rhodesa@bouldercolorado.gov
PRESIDENT-ELECT
Mark Snow City of Colorado Springs mark.snow@coloradosprings.gov
SECRETARY/TREASURER
Nicole Reeves City of Grand Junction nicole.reeves@gjcity.org
AT-LARGE
Sara Heisdorffer City of Wheat Ridge sheisdorffer@ci.wheatridge.co.us
Amy Hodge Town of Windsor ahodge@windsorgov.com
Kyle Parker Prospect Recreation & Park District kparker@prospectdistrict.org
Mari Steinbach Montrose Recreation District mari@montroserec.com
Jules Sheldon Fraser Valley Metro Rec District jules@fraservalleyrec.org
FACILITY MANAGEMENT
Scott Hickman
Carbon Valley Parks & Recreation District shickman@cvprd.com
FITNESS
Suzi Shankweiler Carbon Valley Parks & Recreation District sshankweiler@cvprd.com
PARKS
Jared Musil Town of Parker jmusil@parkeronline.org
PLAaY - Chair & Board Rep
Kelly Dubois City of Fort Collins kdubois@fcgov.com
THERAPEUTIC RECREATION (TRSC) Emily Nelsen City of Boulder nelsene@bouldercolorado.gov
BYLINE, ONLINE & EMAIL
ADVERTISING: Todd Pernsteiner Pernsteiner Creative Group 952-841-1111 todd@pernsteiner.com www.pernsteiner.com
View this issue online at cpra-web.org/page/byline. Keep up on all things CPRA via Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
Tony Jaramillo retired in 2025 after working 35 years in Commerce City. He began employment with Commerce City in 1990 in the Public Works Department, Street Maintenance Division. He quickly transferred over to the Parks, Recreation & Golf Department in 1991 as a Parks Maintenance worker.
In 2000, Tony became a Parks Maintenance Supervisor and during this time enrolled and graduated from Front Range Community College with an associate degree in landscape horticulture. He became a Certified Playground Safety Inspector and Certified ADA Coordinator. He also became a certified irrigation auditor, pesticide applicator, master gardener, and landscape technician.
In 2010, Tony became a Parks Maintenance Superintendent; this was during a time of rapid growth in Commerce City and the department began to construct many new parks, amenities, and
trails. In 2012, Tony received the Parks Professional of the Year award through CPRA. Tony became the Parks Capital Projects Manager in 2015, and directly oversaw numerous capital improvement projects across the city.
“I would have to say the projects I am most proud of include the expansion of Pioneer Park, and the renovations of Fairfax Park, Veterans Memorial Park, and Monaco Park. Each of these projects gave me an overwhelming satisfaction to watch and be part of the transformation. I truly love visiting these parks and watching the community enjoy them.” - Tony Jaramillo
In 2019, Tony was honored with the Fellow Award from CPRA, which highlights individuals who exemplify leadership, inspiration, and noteworthy contributions to the park and recreation profession. It is the highest honor one can receive as a CPRA Parks and Recreation professional. In July 2025, after 35 years, Tony decided it was time to retire from Commerce City.
“I have truly enjoyed the past 35 years. As someone that was born and raised in Commerce City it was amazing to see the city transform into what we see today, it was a true honor to be part of this journey.” - Tony Jaramillo
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By Sara Schmalfeldt CPRP, Aquatics Program Coordinator, City and County of Broomfield
Aquatics professionals from across Colorado gathered February 16–19 at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs for the International Aquatics and Water Safety Conference and Exposition.
Educational sessions covered key topics including DEI in aquatics, technical and operations staff training, drowning prevention, risk management, and leadership development. Attendees explored practical strategies and shared best practices to strengthen aquatic safety and programming in their communities.
Social events provided valuable networking opportunities, allowing Colorado park and recreation professionals to connect with peers and industry leaders from across the country.
The strong Colorado presence underscored the state’s commitment to advancing water safety, professional development, and excellence in aquatics management.
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By TRSC Board: Ronja Vaitaitis (Chair), Lindsey Emmerich (Chair-Elect), Jenni Dehmlow (Secretary), and Emily Nelson (CPRA Board Section Rep)
Through Therapeutic Recreation (TR), participants with disabilities engage in activities that promote emotional well-being, enhance physical and cognitive abilities, and encourage creative and spiritual expression. They find comfort in moments of relaxation, joy in play and laughter, and pride in learning new skills or rekindling old ones.
Therapeutic Recreation Programs are more than just activities — they’re meaningful experiences that bring joy, growth, and connection to every participant. Every individual is celebrated for who they are, and each program is thoughtfully designed to support their unique journey.
Whether it’s through art, games, music, or movement, participants enjoy opportunities to socialize, make decisions, express themselves, and connect with others who share their interests and experiences. These moments help foster independence, build confidence, and create a vibrant sense of community.
At the heart of it all, our participants remind us every day that recreation is not just about activity — it’s about living life fully, meaningfully, and with joy.
If your organization is not currently offering Therapeutic Recreation activities, remember that investing in Therapeutic Recreation strengthens equity, access, and community wellbeing. TR programs are led by Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS) to promote physical health, social connection, independence, and confidence, supporting outcomes that align directly with the core mission of Parks and Recreation. Therapeutic Recreation is not an add-on. It is essential for a truly inclusive Parks and Recreation system.
CPRA Board Section Rep: Emily Nelsen and CTRS of the Year: Ashley Bordenet
The winner of the CTRS of the Year award at the Colorado Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA) 2025 conference was Ashley Bordenet-Grice. Bordenet-Grice, a professional from the Colorado Springs Therapeutic Recreation Program (TRP), received the honor at the annual CPRA Awards Reception held in Vail on October 16, 2025. The award is given by the Therapeutic Recreation Society of Colorado (TRSC), a section within the CPRA. Congratulations Ashley!
If you have questions regarding Therapeutic Recreation, please reach out to the Therapeutic Recreation Society of Colorado (TRSC) via Facebook.
By Veronica Mueller, Fitness and Wellness Manager, City and County of Broomfield
Clare’s journey is a shining example of what it means to be part of a USMS Masters Swim Team. Since joining the BeeGees a few years ago, she has shown unwavering dedication to both her teammates and the sport. She has logged countless hours in the pool and open water training for each of her goals as a swimmer.
Her efforts in the pool have earned her notable results, including a
top-10 time on a relay with the BeeGees. Even before joining the team, Clare had already made her mark in US Masters Swimming, earning three top-10 finishes—two in the 1650 and one in the 1000 freestyle.
Over the last year, Clare prepared for one of the most extraordinary challenges in open water swimming: crossing the English Channel, completed through the
Channel Swimming Association. True to her modest nature, Clare downplayed her accomplishments, but her dedication was clear. Week after week, she trained tirelessly with the BeeGees, friends, and often solo, always gravitating toward her signature stroke— freestyle—and always bringing a smile to practice.
Clare’s English Channel swim marked the final leg of her Triple
Through every milestone, Clare has shown not only exceptional endurance and strength but also the generosity of spirit that inspires those around her.
Crown of Open Water Swimming. She began her journey with the 20 Bridges Manhattan Swim (45.9 km, 2023) with a time of 7:29:40, followed by the Catalina Channel Swim (32.3 km, 2024) with a time of 9:43:57.
Her open water résumé continues to grow, included in her accomplishments are:
• Around Coronado Swim (11.5 miles, 2024) –with a time of 4:45:40.
• Lake Tahoe (34.2 km, 2023) with a time of 13:17:00.
• The Castle 10K ( 2021 and 2022), first place female non-wet suit.
• St. Croix Coral Reef Swim (5 miles, 2022) –with a time of 2:10:46.
• Swim Around Key West (18.4 km, 2022) –with a time of 4:49:42, 4th overall, 1st female.
• Swim Around Charleston (21 km, 2022) –with a time of 4:27:03, 5th overall
Through every milestone, Clare has shown not only exceptional endurance and strength but also the generosity of spirit that inspires those around her. Her journey reflects the very best of what US Masters Swimming represents.
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By Kris Davison, The Aqueous Solution
While the start of the new year might make summer feel like a distant dream, for those in the aquatics industry, the countdown to Memorial Day weekend has officially begun. Opening day always arrives faster than you think, but with a detailed roadmap, you can trade the preseason chaos for a smooth, successful summer. For those experiencing this for the first time, I have learned firsthand the hard lessons of experiencing problems that arise and chaos that can occur during the preseason.
Now is the time to ensure your team is ready for the summer season. Begin scheduling Certified Pool Operator (CPO) and Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) courses for your year-round and seasonal staff to meet local health department requirements.
Don’t wait for too long to see what’s happening under your pool covers. Inspect the facility early to assess how your winterizing efforts held up, looking specifically for debris, shell damage, or cracks in the surrounding deck. It is also crucial to check your
mechanical room: lubricate motors to prevent failed startups and service your heaters and filter media now to avoid mid-season repairs. If you have water slides, contact your inspector now to schedule annual inspections and start the registration paperwork.
As you get closer, it’s time to stock up. Inventory your pump room, deck and safety equipment, ensuring supplies and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) are available and functional. This is also the window to:
• Set up a chemical delivery schedule with your providers.
• Update your SDS sheets, operational logs, and staff manuals.
• Turn the water supply back on if the weather permits.
Winters can be harsh, so give yourself at least a month to uncover and prep the pool. This buffer is essential if you find you need to pressure wash the pool shell, acid wash or repaint surfaces. Be sure to inspect hydrostatic relief valves for debris and replace drain grates for VGB compliance. There is nothing worse than filling a pool only to find it drained overnight because of a faulty valve! Once cleaned, reinstall your drain covers, and install skimmer baskets, inlets, and circulation plugs.
You’re almost there! Conduct your pre-season operational training for staff and aim to begin filling the pool 7-14 days before opening. As soon as water covers the inlets, start your pool systems, add chemicals early to balance the water and prevent algae growth, and don’t forget to turn on the heater!
In these final days, vacuum and brush the pool and arrange your facility equipment. Ensure all required signage is installed according to local codes. Continue
to monitor your water chemistry and make adjustments as needed.
On the day before you open, perform a safety audit to catch any last-minute issues. Before the gates are ready to swing open, remember to take a moment to breathe and acknowledge the incredible hard work you and your staff have put in to provide the community with a summer of fun.
Here’s to a safe, successful, and splash-filled season!
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In parks and recreation, we focus on programs, facilities, and outcomes, and all for good reasons, but at the heart of Apex Park and Recreation is people! The people who deeply care about their communities and show up, daily, to make them better. The people who walk through our doors and participate in programs and love to spend time in our facilities with their families. The people who volunteer for events and help make Apex PRD a better place. This is why we started Apex Activated Podcast!
In the beginning Apex Activated was formed to learn about how people in the park and recreation industry are activating their community. What we didn’t know
was that everyone had a story and how very important those stories were for others to hear. The impact they would have. The force they would be on communities around the United States. We began interviewing and having conversations that not only brought us to tears and gave us insight into personal perspectives, but our talks went from parks and recreation to how our guests were growing and teaching those around them about everything under the sun!
Our mission is simple: listen to people and tell their stories. Every other week, we sit down with guests who are activated in their communities-parks and rec professionals, partners, and advocates, neighbors, friends-and give them the space to share what they’re doing and why it matters. From standing up after unthinkable tragedy to speaking in Washington D.C., our guests have become family and they have changed lives. This podcast wasn’t built to spotlight only big projects or headline-worthy programs. Some of the most powerful stories come from small moments-a creative idea, a challenge overcome, or a quiet win that made a real difference. We believe those stories
deserve to be heard just as much as the big ones.
We don’t rush onto the next question; we don’t look for the perfect soundbite. We listen. We laugh. We learn and we walk away with new advice, new love for a guest and always a story to tell.
At its core, Apex activated is about connection. When you hear how someone else tackled a challenge or brought an idea to life, it sparks inspiration and reminds you that you’re not doing this work alone. You are not doing life alone. We are all walking with each other.
If you’re doing something in your community, we want to hear about it. Because when we listen to each other’s stories, we all become a little more activated.
1. Get Included in the NEW Keeping Up Section
Submit your brief updates (up to 300 words) about your events, projects, staff news, or retirements. Photos welcome.
2. Submit a Feature Article
Your agency can be featured in the next issue of Byline. Why not add being published in your state professional magazine to your resume?!
CPRA agencies are invited to submit articles (350-700 words) aligned with our mission, along with 3-4 high-resolution photos. Suggested themes are available, or you may propose a topic that would benefit our members.
3. Send Article Leads/Ideas If you’re short on time, send us your article ideas and contact details. We’ll handle the research and writing whenever possible.
Send your article or suggested topic and photos to Jillian Galoci at jilliang@cpra-web.org. If you have questions, please call (720) 588-0943. For reference, CPRA members can view past issues of Byline at www.cpra-web.org/publications.
Spring 2026 Byline
Ad deadline April 10, 2026
Mails May
Editorial topics: CPRA 75th Anniversary; Tech for Parks, Recreation, & Sports
Summer 2026 Byline
Ad deadline July 10, 2026
Mails August
Editorial topics: 2026 CPRA Annual Conference; Creative Play for All
Fall 2026 Byline with Annual Buyer’s Guide
Ad deadline ..................... September 25, 2026 Mails November
Editorial topics: The Science of Play & Park Design; Unique events
Looking for amazing exposure to your target audience? Get in front of CPRA members with a customized advertising or sponsorship package that could include Byline magazine, sponsored editorial, online, email and event sponsorships. One-time magazine, email and website advertising opportunities are also available. Unsure of what you’d like to do, contact us to discuss options!
Questions? Contact Todd at todd@pernsteiner.com or (952) 841-1111 or download the 2026 media kit at bit.ly/CPRAByline2026.
If your small team is stretched thin, you need a reliable partner who can jump in and lighten the load. Pernsteiner Creative Group specializes in park and recreation marketing and brings decades of experience working with municipal clients across the country. We deliver results with minimal ramp-up time, offering affordable, effective design and marketing solutions tailored to help you maximize every dollar and every minute. Think of us as the creative extension of your team—ready to tackle projects and keep things moving smoothly. When you’re ready to get things done, we’re here for you!
• Graphic design
• Flyers & posters
• Direct mail
• Presentations
• Signage & displays
• Strategic plans
• Brochures & catalogs
• Social media campaigns
• Marketing management
• Printing & mailing
• Advertising & sponsorships
• Incentive products
• City of Apple Valley
• City of Bloomington
• City of Eden Prairie
• City of Edina
• City of Galt
• City of Hopkins
• City of Inver Grove Heights
• City of Maple Grove
• City of Minnetonka
• City of Norwalk
• City of San Jose
• City of St. Louis Park
• City of Woodbury
• Great Neck Park District
• California Recreation & Park Society
• Illinois Association of Park Districts
• Minnesota Recreation & Park Association
Need a design and marketing partner?
Contact Todd Pernsteiner: (952) 841-1111
todd@pernsteiner.com
www.pernsteiner.com
March 16-18, 2026
Financial Sustainability Certificate Program
Colorado Springs
April 7, 2026
TRSC Presents: Sensory-Enhanced AquaticsTeaching Swimming and Water Safety to Children with Autism Boulder
April 9, 2026
Parks Spring Workshop & Trade Show 2026 Greeley
Advertisers in this issue:
May 20-22, 2026
Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) Course and Exam Broomfield
October 20-23, 2026
75th Anniversary CPRA Annual Conference Breckenridge
at cpra-web.org.
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