The Profile | Spring 2022

Indiana Park & Recreation Association www.INPRA.org Spring 2022

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Inside this Edition: Our Parks Family

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Special Membership Renewal Offer Continued for Park Agencies

Membership Includes: Discounts on Professional Development IPRA provides members with a dynamic and comprehensive calendar of educational events delivered through a variety of methods ranging from regional workshops to online and on-demand learning. Certification courses are offered in CPSI and AFO. CEU’s are also available for select events.

District, Section and Virtual Events Members meet around the state or virtually for educational sessions and/or park tours that provide the opportunity for better communication and networking among peers. Town Halls and Roundtable discussions are provided virtually to provide access to all without requiring travel.

The Indiana Park and Recreation Association grew your membership benefits in 2021. We want to thank you for your continued support and extend the special membership offer again, for 2022. This offer allows you to expand your membership benefits to include your entire team.

That’s right, all of your fulltime and part-time staff are eligible for membership in IPRA at NO additional cost to your department. It’s imperative your staff grows professionally in 2022, we’re here to help.

We know budgets are tight and it’s imperative your staff get quality professional development. We’re here to provide opportunities, often with no or very low registration fees.

Any 2021 IPRA Member Park Department who renews for 2022 at the same level or above will be eligible for this promotion.

To take advantage of this offer, have each staff or park board member NOT included in your membership dues complete the brief form to be added to our membership database.

Discounts on State Conference Registration At the IPRA Annual Conference, professionals exchange ideas and information in education sessions, meetings, social gatherings, and an awards banquet. In addition, exhibitors display the latest in park and recreation equipment and supplies.

Develop Professional Contacts/ Network on IPRAConnect.org Meet with other professionals in the park and recreation field who are eager to share new ideas and discuss current challenges. Join the only communications platform in the State of Indiana developed specifically for park professionals – IPRAConnect.org.

Online and Print Buyer’s Guide Looking for park products or services?

IPRA produces a print version of our Buyer’s Guide annually, or you can use the searchable buyer’s guide on IPRAConnect.org.

Communication Through multiple channels that include The Profile magazine, weekly e-newsletter and social media, IPRA keeps members up to date on the latest in industry news.

Advocacy IPRA is active in monitoring legislative activities and tracking legislation which impacts parks and recreation.

http://www.inpra.org/forms/2022-additional-members

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Indiana Park & Recreation Association 107 Logan Street Noblesville, IN 46060 317.219.5272 www.inpra.org

We Need Your Contributions

What makes The Profile a success is your input, ideas, experiences, and creativity.

Please consider sharing your input with our network of IPRA members. Artwork and photographs are encouraged.

How to Submit

Inside this issue 5

Leadership Team

2 Rundell Ernstberger Associates, LLC

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From the Association

6 Commercial Recreation Group

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From the President

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Kids Just Want to Have Fun

13 Save the Date: 2022 IPRA Conference & Expo 15

From the Foundation

Articles and Photographs to: IPRA, The Profile 107 Logan Street Noblesville, IN 46060 317.219.5272 courtnie@inpra.org

17 2021 Holiday Spirit Photo Contest

Publication Schedule

22 Indiana Park and Recreation Association Announced Nonprofit Employer of the Year

Spring Content Deadline - February 18 March Distribution Summer Content Deadline - May 20 July Distribution Fall/Winter Content Deadline - October 21 December Distribution

Advertising Sales Felisha Canillas felisha@inpra.org

Editorial Committee Chloe Jennings Courtnie Pettigrew Felisha Canillas Kaleigh Stephenson

Advertisers

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Viking Festival

21 Bringing Our Communities Together

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Members on the Move

26 Paint, Posters, and Passion: Community Collaboration Leads to Tactical Urbanism for Active Living in Indianapolis Parks 28

Problems, problems, problems

30 Skills Development Webinar Series 31

Youth Pickleball in the Parks!

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2022 Events

7 Butler Fairman & Seufert, Inc. 8 Browning Day 11 The Veridus Group 12 PlayPros 14 Context Design LLC 15 Hawkins Water Treatment Group 16 Recreation inSites, LLC 18 MartinRiley Architects Engineers 19 Buddenbaum & Moore, LLC 20 Miracle Playgrounds of Indiana 21 Lehman & Lehman, Inc. 23 Weihe Engineers 27 PROS Consulting, Inc. 29 RJ Thomas Mfg. Co., Inc./ Pilot Rock 30 HWC Engineering 32 Meyer Najem Construction 32 Forest Commodities, Inc. 33 Huffcutt Concrete 34 Spear Corporation 34 Hitchcock Design Group 36 Green Sign Company 36 Norwalk Concrete Industries 37 V3 Companies 38 Zec Eight Insights, LLC 38 RLTurner Corporation 39 Sinclair Recreation, LLC 40 Midstates Recreation

Editor

Courtnie Pettigrew courtnie@inpra.org

Publisher

Indiana Correctional Industries 317.955.6800 www.IndianaCorrectionalIndustries.com Front Cover photo credit: Courtnie Pettigrew, Salamonie State Park; Felisha Canillas, Finch Creek Park; Lisa Nye, Carey Grove Park, Flowing Well Park; and background images throughout publication, attributed to: Freepik.com Connect with us: facebook.com/INParkandRec @INParkandRec instagram.com/inparkandrec 4 the profile

Mission Statement The Indiana Park & Recreation Association advances healthy lifestyles and environmental stewardship by providing education, professional development, resources and advocacy.

Vision Statement The Indiana Park & Recreation Association is the premier source of support and advancement for parks and recreation providers.

2022 IPRA Board of Directors SOUTHERN DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVES

CORPORATE REPRESENTATIVES

Chip Orner Franklin Parks

Nathan Kane Clarksville Parks

Megan Miller Miracle Playgrounds of Indiana

PRESIDENT-ELECT

RECREATION & PROGRAMMING CHAIR

ELECTED OFFICIAL

PRESIDENT

Becky Barrick-Higgins Bloomington Parks

PAST PRESIDENT

Steve McDaniel Fort Wayne Parks

SECRETARY / TREASURER

Randy Royer Hitchcock Design

Megan Bowman Johnson County Parks

Chuck Gardiner NuToys Leisure Products, Inc.

Meghan Stritar Brownsburg Parks

IPRA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Lisa Nye Indiana Park & Recreation Association

Travis Tranbarger Brownsburg Parks

AQUATICS CHAIR

NORTHERN DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVES

NATURAL RESOURCES TRAILS & GREENWAYS CHAIR

Brandon Beno

Chuck Reddinger Fort Wayne Parks

VACANT

IPRA STAFF

Greg Dickenson Zionsville Parks

Courtnie Pettigrew Membership & Events Coordinator Indiana Park & Recreation Association

NEW & YOUNG PROFESSIONAL CHAIR

Felisha Canillas Development Coordinator Indiana Park & Recreation Association

Charlie Elliott Indy Parks

Introducing Our Parks Family The Indiana Park and Recreation Association is excited to introduce Our Parks Family! In future issues, we will be featuring you, our members, on the cover and inside The Profile magazine. On the cover of this edition are the families (two and four legged) of the IPRA staff enjoying parks in central Indiana. We invite you to share photos of yourself and whomever you call family, enjoying local parks. Indiana is full of beautiful places and people and pets. We’d love to feature you in an upcoming edition.

This will not be your average parks photo contest. This is a place to share your love for parks and your family in one place.

Share your parks family here: http://www.inpra.org/forms/our-parks-family

Photo credit: Fo

rt Wayne Parks

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From the Association

By Courtnie Pettigrew, Membership and Events Coordinator; Felisha Canillas, Development Coordinator

Happy Spring IPRA members!

It is crazy to think we are already four months into 2022. It feels like just yesterday we were together at the 2021 Conference & Expo in Muncie. We are thrilled that we are shifting back to in-person events in 2022 and we can’t wait to see all of you!

We have five district meetings planned across the state: Bloomington, New Albany, Lafayette, Avon, and New Haven.

In addition to hosting our usual great events, we are excited to introduce new events like All Things Camp, an IPRA camp educational summit on April 20th. If you have learned anything over these past couple of years, it is that camps are crucial to children and families. Therefore, with the guidance and leadership of IPRA members, we have created this event that includes education sessions on trending camp topics as well as opportunities to network with fellow camp professionals!

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Neelay Bhatt, Vice President and Principal, PROS Consulting

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Michael Kirschman, CPRP, Director of City of Virginia Beach Parks

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Tom O’Rourke, Professor at Clemson University, former Director of Parks, Charleston County South Carolina.

The Leadership Summit will be held at Saxony Hall in Fishers. This event is all about high quality professional development. Following the Summit on June 22, we will host a fundraising card scramble, where attendees will visit sponsored checkpoints and draw a playing card at each one. This event is still a work in progress, stay tuned for more information!

We will also bring back the Leadership Summit on June 22–23 with nationally recognized speakers and park experts:

As a reminder, IPRF provides Professional Development Grants to assist in the attendance of a professional development schools or events, like the IPRA Leadership Summit, which will enhance professional growth and contribute to the overall knowledge base of the parks and recreation profession. Check out IPRF grants and scholarship here: http://www.inpra.org/foundation/ foundation-scholarships We hope that you are just as excited about this year as we are. Thank you for sticking with us for these past few years – we know things have been challenging. We are here to serve you, our members, and will continue to be your premier source of support and advancement for parks and recreation in Indiana.

www.inpra.org Indiana Park & Recreation Association

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From the President

By Becky Barrick-Higgins, Bloomington Parks 2022 IPRA President

My favorite part about living in Indiana is that the seasons change. I love winter and looking at pictures of the shelf ice on Lake Michigan. Or, watching snow fall out the window while having a fire in the fireplace. But this year, even though it isn’t my favorite time of year, I am looking forward to spring more than ever. Those who know me know that I like fall best of all.

Still, I’m ready for a change and I bet some of you are too. The definition of change is to make different, cause a transformation.

Is there something that you have been wanting to change?

Change your pace, clothes, hair, lifestyle, way of thinking? Well, how about changing your involvement with IPRA? Perhaps, you would like to become more involved by joining a committee, volunteering your time, mentoring a new parks and recreation professional, or sponsoring an event. It is a great way to meet new people, learn new trends, and see new sites.

As the 2022 president of IPRA I’m excited about our Board of Directors. They represent a plethora of knowledge and experience and are just waiting for an opportunity to speak with

you about all this organization has to offer. Check out something new that you haven’t done before or maybe just in a long time. Make this the year you attend an event or district meeting, sign up for a webinar or town hall meeting, or commit to attending and participating in our state conference and expo. Just ask a board member. We are all here to help. We are confident we can help you find a place to fit in with Indiana Park and Recreation Association.

Early in my career, one of my first supervisors was speaking to a new group of interns. He said to remember that the “only constant is change”. For the past 41 years I’ve carried that advice with me and learned to not only get used to change, but to embrace it. I share it with you now because it is still good advice.

Be open to change. Be willing to change your mind, opinion, point of view, or even just your shoes. Yes, I encourage you to walk in someone else’s shoes, if only for a short while. It just might help you become the change you are looking for.

IPRA Leadership Summit June 22-23, 2022 | Saxony Hall, Fishers Mark your calendars for the 2022 IPRA Leadership Summit. This event will feature high quality professional development presented by nationally recognized experts in the parks field: •

Neelay Bhatt, Vice President and Principal, PROS Consulting

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Michael Kirschman, CPRP, Director, City of Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation

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Tom O’Rourke, Professor at Clemson University and former Director of Charlestown County Parks and Recreation

Topics include:

Thank You Our Title Sponsor

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Ethical Leadership

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Mission Driven Decision Making

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Organizational Culture

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Planning for an Innovative and Inclusive Future

Additional information and speakers will be announced soon.

There are still sponsorship opportunities available, please contact Felisha Canillas for more information!

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Kids Just Want to Have Fun

By Lynn Pinoniemi, Vice President of Marketing, Landscape Structures, Inc.

Kids Just Want to Have Fun

When people pass by a community park sprouting colorful, inviting play structures, they might recall the fun, carefree days of childhood and smile.

Parks and recreation professionals go beyond just those memories.

Their thoughts also go to the accessibility of quality play spaces, the safety of the equipment or to necessary investment to provide physical, social and emotional development to children and families in their community. And you can be sure they crack a smile when they see that kids of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds are enjoying time on the community’s playgrounds.

That’s the goal for all children: the chance to play freely. And a childhood that includes the full spectrum of developmental opportunities.

Returning to the Playground

As spring 2022 kicks off and more children and families increase their time at the park, each child will experience the playground in their own way. That’s why it’s important for park professionals to remember that for kids with special needs, regulating their bodies and emotions through play and socialization may be even more critical.

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“Playgrounds can be an ideal natural play setting for children who are neurotypical,” said Virginia Spielmann, executive director at the STAR Institute for Sensory Processing Disorder. “But for kids with special needs, a traditional playground doesn’t offer the same opportunities to master physical challenges, gain social confidence or hone fine motor skills.”

Many Experience Sensory Challenges Thanks in part to advances in brain imaging technologies, such as structural and functional MRIs, we are beginning to learn just how—and how many—children feel, process and respond to everyday sensory events more vividly or differently than most.

According to breakthrough research by the University of California San Francisco, 5 to 16 percent of school-aged children experience sensory processing difficulties.

Some have biological differences in brain structure and connectivity patterns that cause them to take in and respond to stimuli differently than most.

How does this affect a child’s experience on the playground? It differs with each child, of course, but the struggle to

take in, integrate and process sensory stimulation—whether it’s the chaotic spin of a whirling merry-go-round or the noise and tussle of rambunctious climbers on monkey bars—can sometimes prove overwhelming.

To highly sensitive children, these intense experiences can feel like an assault on their senses. In other cases, children may seek out external stimulation.

“Children who struggle to process external stimuli can react in many different ways to visual input, sounds, smells, balance, movement and more,” explains Spielmann.

They may react strongly and with enthusiasm, or they may be overwhelmed and retreat. And often, they can’t match the motor skills of other children, which adds to feelings of being different and isolated— especially on a traditional playground.”

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Kids Just want to Have Fun, continued from page 10 Playgrounds have Evolved

The right play equipment can make all the difference. And today’s thoughtfully designed playgrounds have evolved into places that foster all-sensory experiences for every child.

Inclusive playgrounds are among the few places where a child with special needs can feel like just another kid who wants to have fun. Here, kids who live with the stigma of being “other” or “less than” can choose their own level of activity, create their own play experience and finally find new ways to connect with others.

The hallmark of an inclusive playground?

Intentional design.

Intentionally inclusive Design Insights

When playground equipment planners and designers are educated and interested in how kids with special needs experience the world, it informs their approach and

designs—and makes an enormous difference in the final product.

That insight can translate to subtle equipment details in materials, shapes, movement or orientation. For example, a play structure with builtin tactile elements invites children to explore a variety of textures and shapes and helps them to integrate multiple tactile experiences.

Some play structures also offer a variety of interactive panels in a variety of positions—including passive musical or auditory components. These inclusive playgrounds also incorporate quiet, cozy spaces where overstimulated kids can go for a calming escape to regain their equilibrium and recharge.

all abilities to play, explore and learn with confidence, to connect with others on their own terms and to feel a sense of control over their surroundings.

Parks and recreation professionals know what looks like mere child’s play is really vital preparation for life. And it is owed to all kids in our communities to prepare them for their best possible life.

There are many other ways that playground design can invite children of

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Save

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2022 IPRA Conference & Expo November 15 – 17, 2022 Now accepting proposals for 2022 conference education sessions The Conference Education Session Committee are now accepting speaker proposals for the 2022 IPRA Conference & Expo. The 2022 Conference needs YOU and your willingness to advise, to inspire, and to share with other parks and recreation professionals the benefits of your expertise and lessons learned.

Date

We are excited to share the location and dates of the 2022 IPRA Conference & Expo.

We’ll see you November 15-17, 2022, at the Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown Union Station!

Applications must be submitted by June 30, 2022.

Hot Topics to Consider: Programming/ operational challenges brought on by the pandemic, Aquatics, Fundraising, Grants, and Sponsorship, Health and Wellness, Innovation, Leadership, Maintenance, Marketing and social media, Programming and event ideas, Trails Maintenance and Security, and so much more!

Award nominations are open The Indiana Park & Recreation Association Awards of Excellence recognize those throughout Indiana that embody vision, dedication, and excellence in parks & recreation.

These awards highlight the efforts that transcend everyday standards to make a difference and improve the quality of life in our Indiana communities. Award winners include park and recreation professionals, organizations, agencies, and volunteers.

Visit our website for more information and to start the nomination process.

Thank you to our sponsors There are still sponsorship opportunities available, please contact Felisha Canillas for more information!

TITLE SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

ADDITIONAL SPONSORS

http://inpra.org/conference-expo/awardnominations Deadline to submit a nomination is Sunday, August 28, 2022.

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From the Foundation

By Felisha Canillas, IPRA

Last year the Foundation provided more than $12,000 in scholarships to deserving individuals. These scholarships benefited current park professionals as they sought to expand their knowledge of the parks field, future park professionals studying to become a player in the parks field as well as children of IPRA members. We are so proud to award these scholarships and look forward to continuing to provide these awards in 2022.

Did you know that by participating in the Dollars for Scholars Golf Outing and the Annual IPRF Trivia Night event, you are helping the foundation raise critical funds to support Indiana parks? Don’t miss out on your opportunity to join the foundation at these events this year. The Golf Outing will be held on May 10th at Eagle Creek Golf Club in Indianapolis. Registration is open and we look forward to seeing you there!

In other news, the Foundation is thrilled to announce we are now members of the National Association of Park Foundations, which offers a lot of benefits for its members. By joining NAPF our membership will have access to educational programs, online resources, strategic planning, and board development just to name a few.

Furthermore, we are collaborating with Charitable Advisors to assess the board and the organization to strengthen our leadership. This year we are honored to have Dominic Cornette of Whitestown Parks and Recreation serve as our board president and lead us through some exciting changes. We have also added an advisory board. These people include Susan O’Connor, Phil Parnin, Don Seal, Dan McGuire and Joe Wynns. Their past leadership and knowledge of the

foundation is critical for us to grow, and we are grateful for their service and guidance.

Lastly, we want to encourage everyone to please consider donating to the Foundation at https://inpra-foundation. evrconnect.com/give By supporting the Foundation, you are committing to provide funds to park professionals that will facilitate their growth and development in the field. We need your support more than ever and hope you’ll consider making a donation!

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2021 Holiday Spirit Photo Contest

By Courtnie Pettigrew, IPRA

The Indiana Park and Recreation Association invited its members to participate in our annual Holiday Spirit Photo Contest. The contest seeks photos that capture the holiday spirit that park departments bring to their local community. Photos could be of parks, park properties, or of park events.

The contest ran from November to December 31, 2021. Then voting took place via Facebook from January 3 – 7, 2022. The photo with the most combined likes and shares by the voting deadline was the winner.

1st Pla

ce: Ya

2nd Place : Grinch in Jail, Bluffton Parks

: 3rd Place ck, Clo d a re Gingerb Parks Bluffton e, : lace y Can P h 5t Cand arks P with lkhart a t San ity of E C

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4th Place: High View of Parks Winter Festival, Valpo

Thank you to all of our participants for the 2021 Holiday Spirit Photo Contest! Get ready to bring your communities even more holiday spirit for the 2022 holiday season!

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Viking Festival

By Alexa Lingg, Events Coordinator, Whitestown Parks

Fire performances, axe throwing, and Scottish eggs are just a few of the things you’ll find at Whitestown’s Viking Festival.

2022 will mark the fifth year for the annual Whitestown Viking Festival, held in the northwestern suburb of Indianapolis. The event originated in another region, but they were seeking a new location and Whitestown fit the mold. Anson Acres Park had the perfect environment for a Viking Festival event. This led to Whitestown Parks and Recreation taking full ownership of the event. It is unlike any other event in the area and continues to grow year after year.

Whitestown’s Anson Acres Park will be transformed into a Viking village for the 3-day festival in late Spring. The event will run Friday, April 29th from 4pm-9pm,

Saturday, April 30th from 12pm-9pm, and Sunday, May 1st from 12pm-5pm.

Event attendees can experience authentic Viking culture in a variety of ways. Artisans will be on-site selling handcrafted items, including chainmail armor, ceramics, horns, candles, weapons, leather goods, and more! There will be live music performances, educational animal interactions, and reenactments between different Viking groups. Guests can also try their hand at axe throwing and archery,

compete in a keg toss throw, enjoy periodthemed food, and even drink mead out of Viking horns. Viking Festival combines education and culture into a unique, family-friendly experience that draws nearly 5,000 attendees annually.

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Bringing Our Communities Together

By Mitch Billue, Superintendent, Monticello Parks

When people work together, amazing things will happen. The Monticello Parks Department has done this before and is doing it again. The first community-wide project ended with the completion of a popular skate park in 2009. Beginning with a plea from area youth, partnerships with area industries, businesses, organizations, and community members were formed, and big dreams were not only imagined, but brought to life. Now, thanks to new partnerships, the Monticello Parks Department is nearing completion of another big dream; a new nature center.

for the youth, and brought our community together through a common goal - development of a nature center.

The Monticello Parks Department has a rich history of involving volunteers, civic organizations, and businesses in development projects where possible. By providing opportunities for involvement in the creation of our parks and park amenities we, as departments, foster atmospheres that allow us one very important way of “Bringing Our Communities Together”

Higher than anticipated construction costs for building a much-desired community nature center left the department with little hope for completion of the project. Grant possibilities, donations, and other methods of fund raising for this project were discussed, but Superintendent Mitch Billue had another idea. A unique partnership had formed between the Monticello Parks Department and Twin Lakes School Corporation where the Twin Lakes Building Trades class was able to have handson experience with construction projects while also helping their community. In the past, the class had assisted with construction of simple projects such as dugouts at the softball park and a restroom at the skate park.

This time students would have an opportunity to be involved with a large construction project from the ground up, while also helping to make their community a better place. Working together with the Parks Department, and with the support of many volunteers and generous local businesses, this project became more than just a nature center.

As construction of the nature center moved forward, students were able to learn from seasoned business owners who donated their time to share their passion and knowledge with those individuals participating in the Trades program.

Through this experience, the atmosphere created fostered connections, provided an exceptional educational experience

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Indiana Park and Recreation Association Announced Nonprofit Employer of the Year

By Courtnie Pettigrew, IPRA

On Tuesday, February 22, 2022, Work+Learn Indiana held their 16th Annual IMPACT Awards Celebration where the Indiana Park and Recreation Association was announced winner of Nonprofit Employer of the Year. Work and Learn Indiana is a program of the Institute for Workforce Excellence, a 501(c)3 subsidiary of the Indiana Chamber of Commerce. Their program links employers, learners, high schools, colleges and universities. Their goal is to help create or expand high-quality experiential opportunities within Indiana.

IPRA was honored to accept this award and so proud to celebrate their intern program. “Interns are not just a part of the team at IPRA, they are an essential part of the organization” said Courtnie Pettigrew, Membership and Event Coordinator. Felisha Canillas, Development Coordinator, also recognized that the Indiana Park and Recreation Association has just three full time employees, and “without the hard work from these incredible interns IPRA wouldn’t be able to serve members or deliver the education and programming that is integral to the mission.” The staff at IPRA are committed to providing interns with real life experience that they can use in their future careers, and they are thrilled to be recognized for this commitment.

Executive Director, Lisa Nye praised IPRA interns and stated that “IPRA values its strong internship program and is grateful for every person that joins and brings new ideas to the team.”

IPRA was lucky enough to continue to offer internships during a global pandemic.

The organization was able to provide six students from central Indiana an internship experience and looks forward to working with interns!

If you would like to watch the awards ceremony, you can view at: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=pSx0Mma4dlE&feature=youtu.be

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“I never knew how much went into creating and running a park. IPRA gave me the opportunity to meet the individuals that run the parks and learn directly from them. I also got the chance to help with IPRA’s annual conference, even though my internship ended before the conference took place. Overall, it was a great experience, and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to do more than just get coffee and make copies for an internship. You will gain real experience!”

–Rachel Landis, 2021 Summer IPRA Intern, Ball State University Student

Morgan Hale “My favorite part of interning with IPRA was working one-on-one with a team of strong women who want to cultivate your ideas and talents. I’m thankful for the experience as it was the final push I needed to pursue my current career.”

–Morgan Hale, 2021 Spring IPRA Intern, Anderson University Student “Interning for IPRA this past summer provided me with so much professional development that greatly added to my resume--like event planning, business development, and communications--but it also brought me so many fond memories.

I am so grateful for my time as an intern at IPRA, and I am especially thankful I was able to get to know the staff and members of the organization.”

–Christine Dunker, 2021 Summer IPRA Intern, Ball State University Student

Rachel Landis

Christine Dunker

“My time as an intern at IPRA was so valuable to my professional and personal life. The staff was so welcoming and really gave me an opportunity to be hands-on with so many aspects of the organization.

I learned so much from IPRA, and it was really cool to see the parks and recreation field and the nonprofit world come together.”

–Abigail Witte, 2021 Fall IPRA Intern, Ball State University Student

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Congratulations to the IPRA movers and shakers who have recently changed jobs and/or retired within the park and recreation profession!

April McCampbell

Content manager at Annie’s Creative Studio to Manager of Communications at Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation April has a background in radio, television, and publishing in NE Indiana with experience in audio/video production, writing, directing, producing and editing for television and digital. She had the privilege to work with over 50 nonprofit organizations in her role as Community Affairs Director for a local television station.

In April’s new role, she will serve as community relations for the Parks and Recreation Department, disseminating information via traditional media, social media, internal communications, public meetings and special events.

Gilbert Young

Innovation Campus Landscape Supervisor at Utah State University Facilities to Supervisor of Horticulture at Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Gilbert has specialized training and experience in managing water resources in landscaping in Utah, maintaining a historic estate and garden, curating and accessioning plants, designing new garden spaces in California, overseeing all landscape operations within Utah State University’s Innovation Campus, and documenting the tree inventory throughout the Utah State University system.

In Gilbert’s new role, he will create, maintain, protect, and make accessible to the public indoor and outdoor horticultural displays within Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory.

Lead the Showcase Design Committee and collaborate with other members within Parks and Recreation and Botanical Conservatory to develop and design engaging seasonal horticultural displays within the Showcase House. Collaborate with Programming staff to educate and interpret the plant collection for the visiting public.

Kelsey Gerig

Volunteer Coordinator at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Fort Wayne to Interpretive Program Coordinator at Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Kelsey received her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a concentration in Science Education and Graduate Certification in Cultural and Ethnic Education from Indiana University. She also earned a Graduate Certificate in Organizational Leadership from Purdue Fort Wayne. She did her graduate-level student teaching at a primary school in Australia that offered outdoor classrooms, a student-run hobby farm, gardening class rotation, an Aboriginal foraging garden, and a nature playground.

In Kelsey’s new role, she will facilitate learning at the Conservatory through public classes and workshops, interactive displays, and educational pieces. She helps visitors connect to the gardens through programming for adult group visits, school field trips, and the summer day camp.

Continued on page 25

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Members on the Move, continued from page 24

Riley Hollenbaugh

Director of Community Development at Whitley County Economic Development Corporation to Manager of Riverfront Programs and Events at Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Riley has a background working with nonprofit organizations focusing on downtown development including two nationally accredited Main Street organizations. Most recently, Riley completed two crowdfunding campaigns for public space projects in South Whitley and Columbia City, Indiana. He also participated in economic development improvements such as business attraction and retention, workforce development and tax abatements.

In Riley’s new role, he will plan and produce recreational and educational programs, special events, and manage rental activities for events to engage the public with the Fort Wayne Rivers and Riverfront Parks. He will attract families, children, youth, and adult participants of all abilities to facilitate enjoyment and learning, and to promote connection to the rivers.

Rhonda Foster

Administrative Assistant at Knox County Parks to Park Superintendent at Knox County Parks Rhonda is the first female to ever hold the County Parks Superintendent position, at Ouabache Trails Park in Vincennes, Indiana, the oldest city in the state of Indiana. She is proud to say, “I look forward to the coming challenges ahead!”

Sarah Young

Professor at Indiana University Department of Health & Wellness Design to Retired After 35 years with Indiana University, Dr. Sarah Young retired from School of Public Health, Department of Health & Wellness Design (formerly Recreation, Park & Tourism Studies) in December 2021.

IPRA gives a warm happy retirement, Dr. Sarah Young!

Stay up to date on IPRAConnect.

Our online social platform for park professionals.

Sign up at: IPRAConnect.org Indiana Park & Recreation Association

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Paint, Posters, and Passion: Community Collaboration Leads to Tactical Urbanism for Active Living in Indianapolis Parks

By Marissa Byers and MacKenzie Isaac, Health by Design

Tactical urbanism (n.) – A citizen-led, community-driven approach to neighborhood building using short-term, lowcost, and scalable interventions to catalyze long-term change.

Whether tactical urbanism is a new term for your Parks and Recreation Department or a strategy you’re still learning to optimize, engaging residents and organizations to participate in and implement active living projects through tactical urbanism benefits all parties. Since the goal of these temporary installations is to be low-cost and community-led, parks can stretch their budgets further, create resident engagement and explore what community members prefer, and encourage healthy habits at the same time.

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MacKenzie Isaac – a former AmeriCorps Public Ally and Health

by Design team member who was recently named a Rhodes Scholar – led tactical urbanism projects in two Indianapolis locations, Frederick Douglass and Washington Parks, to demonstrate just how these programs can encourage an active lifestyle while engaging different community groups. Her work installing tactical urbanism supported larger Active People, Healthy Indy goals in the Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) service area. REACH is an initiative administered through the Marion County Public Health Department, which encourages active living and other healthy community strategies. Here are a few strategies Parks and Recreation departments can emulate for successful tactical urbanism projects: Organizational Collaboration: The tactical urbanism projects included walking path mile-markers, a recreation lot (with four-square, hopscotch, and a giant checkers board), and accessible, dualpurpose resting and recreation stations for users of two different Indianapolis parks. Health by Design led the project and volunteer organization in partnership with Indy Parks, other City of Indianapolis departments, and the Marion County

Public Health Department, while also receiving input from various neighborhood groups such as the Alliance for Northeast Unification (ANU) and One Voice Martindale-Brightwood.

Neighbor Engagement: A key factor to the success of Health by Design’s tactical urbanism installations was neighbor engagement. MacKenzie grew up in one of the project’s target neighborhoods and could help make important connections in the community. She benefited from advice and networking from local leaders, including Indy Parks and Recreation management. One of the successes of this project was using spray paint and stencils to create mile-markers along the route of a local senior walking group that meets weekly in one of the target parks. By adding mile markers, additional individuals or groups can use the trail for physical exercise.

Accessibility: Accessibility was one of the foundational tenets for these tactical urbanism installations. In order to encourage active living, Mackenzie aimed to ensure that all neighbors, regardless of current physical activity level or disability, are able to engage with the new park assets. A local advocacy organization, ACCESSability, provided support to this effort and helped to conduct multiple walk audits that identified potential barriers for

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Paint, Posters, and Passion: Community Collaboration Leads to Tactical Urbanism for Active Living in Indianapolis Parks, continued from page 26 park users who rely on mobility devices to get around. This led to the development of the dual-purpose resting and recreation stations, which allow park users to use picnic tables for physical exercises or recovery. Instructions at each station were tailored so that participants in wheelchairs or scooters could complete the guided exercises too.

Youth Action: One of the most joyful aspects of the tactical urbanism projects was including young volunteers in the implementation of the recreation lot.

A group of volunteers from the Felege Hiywot Center, an Indianapolis nonprofit focused on youth mentorship and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education through

urban farming, spent a full Saturday helping to clear off the asphalt pad, measure and trace designs, and paint the giant checkerboard, hopscotch, and four-square lines onto the lot. Including them in the implementation allowed them to take ownership of the project, thus encouraging engagement with the new resources.

Tactical urbanism is a place-making strategy that can be simple, fun, costeffective, and community driven. Not only is it low-cost for Parks and Recreation Departments to implement, but it creates active living and physical recreation opportunities for community members.

Health by Design offers guidance and technical assistance on active living projects, including tactical urbanism and Safe Routes to Parks, throughout the state. Visit healthbydesignonline.org to learn more about how we can help.

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Problems, problems, problems

By Greg Martin, Jennings County Parks

Indiana author Richard Bach wrote in his novel Illusions, “There is no such thing as a problem without a gift for you in its hand.

You seek problems because you need their gifts.” This makes perfect sense to a rock climber! As many people are noting, rock climbing is becoming a mainstream activity. This was not originally the case, but today with the sport having its debut in the Olympics and award-winning films like “Free Solo”, climbing is exploding in popularity and is making an impact recreationally as well as economically.

Climbing in America started out as a fringe activity, done by a small number of individuals who often cast as thrill seekers to crazies. It was hard for others to understand why someone would risk injury in such a way. Conversely, we note climbing is one of the more basic recreational activities: run, jump, swim, bike, climb, etc. Nearly all playground equipment has climbing features, and many have artificial climbing walls. Large indoor gyms are being built in most large to average size communities.

Outdoor climbing in Indiana has been going on for quite some time, yet was mostly a sporadic activity. There are reports of a few areas being developed 28 the profile

in the 70’s on private property with little documentation and serious development. In the 80’s areas did start to see some attention, but most climbers tried to keep quiet about their endeavors afraid access could be limited. With Red River Gorge exploding in popularity in the early 90’s, nearly every possible rock face has been explored. Indiana will never be a great destination for climbing, but a few areas could start to get popular.

One such area is Muscatatuck Park in North Vernon. With Bouldering development starting in 1991, a hundred climbs were created in a few years. The late 90’s saw another wave of harder problems, giving climbers a local area to be challenged by. The original guidebook, kept on the park’s website, was a simple chronological list of climbs done, with simple descriptions, and only a few pictures. Jennings County Parks and Recreation Director just recently finished a more robust guidebook. This FREE 92-page PDF can be downloaded off the park’s website and is being distributed widely in the climbing community. There is a wide range of difficulty represented and beginners and advanced climbers can all be challenged.

So...What is bouldering? Bouldering is a form of rock climbing that is usually done reasonably close to the ground. Today,

climbers usually carry backpack style pads to soften impact. Often multiple pads are used for rough and/or taller areas. A boulder “problem” is a series of moves with a distinct start and finish. A problem could be just a couple moves or could be a longer complex traversing “Problem.”

Often a climber will seek out a boulder problem that is beyond their ability to climb. The boulder problems are given grades, but this is often very subjective and size dependent. A hard problem may take the climber multiple tries over multiple days, often years. Sounds weird, doesn’t it? The climber gets on a steep problem, perhaps, 20 times over the coarse of a couple hours. At first a few moves can be completed. Then a few more added.

Eventually the climber figures out each individual move. Now it is time to do the complete problem. Strength, power, flexibility, execution, and precision must all be perfect. At some point skin, muscle, and mental fitness take their toll. The climber gives up for the day to come back later and try again, when they are stronger.

It is a funny game, yet not so different than running or any other sport, except the challenge is mostly against oneself.

Indoor gyms came to Indiana in the early 1990’s. They have increased in popularity steadily. Indoors, limits can be pushed in a very safe and controlled manner. The falling consequence is mostly mediated

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with large foam pads, much like the high jump or pole vault. Today climbing holds are made by numerous manufacturers and home gyms are also steadily increasing.

Indiana has just seen the development of its first climbing advocacy group. In mid-2021 the Indiana Climbers Coalition was created. The fledgling ICC was

created to assist the climbing community to gain greater access to increasing climbing possibilities. Access to climbing areas is always a concern to climbers.

The Access Fund was one of the first national organizations to help climbers.

This group started out in the 80’s. The Sierra Club helped climbers somewhat prior to that. Today, the Red River Gorge Climbing Coalition (Daniel Boone National Forest and Natural Bridge State Park area in Kentucky) is a model for the whole country. This group has hundreds of members and has purchased well over 1000 acres of recreational land in four climbing preserves. The University of Kentucky has been doing economic studies of the climber’s impact over the last few years and annually this has become a multi-million-dollar impact.

Numerous climbers are also buying land and cabins.

Indiana will not be able to compete with Kentucky for climbing, as the Red is the best sport climbing in the country and

also has significant traditional climbing opportunities. Indiana can increase access though. In the Muscatatuck Park Guidebook, four main walls are listed as developed with around 300 problems.

The guidebook author also noted over 10 additional areas in Jennings. There are additional areas throughout the state that can accommodate the increasing demand.

For now, Muscatatuck Park is the only well-known outdoor climbing resource in Indiana. Once, Indiana’s Fourth State Park, this small park is an Indiana gem.

215 Acres of lush forest with nearly 10 miles of trail (most mountain bike friendly), RV campground, shelters, a community building, and historic attractions. The park just recently had its 100th anniversary. Please glance through the free guidebook and visit our webpage and Facebook page for additional information. muscatatuckpark.com/pdf/ BoulderingGuide2021.pdf

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Learn more about the Skills Development Webinar Series

The Indiana Park and Recreation Association has partnered with the Illinois Park and Recreation Association for their upcoming Skills Development Webinar Series.

The Skills Development Webinar Series provides park and recreation, conservation, and forest preserve district professionals with access to monthly professional development opportunities from the comfort of their home or office. This unique program is designed to meet the needs of park and recreation professionals by providing subscribers with the option to participate in live webinars or on-demand recordings.

One time registration includes monthly login (group participation is encouraged) and access to all 2022 recorded webinars. Earn up to 1.1 CEUs.

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To register, INPRA members should create a profile (if not done already) and use the discount code at checkout to receive the $100 discount making the yearlong series $275.

Discount Code: SDWS22INPRA

Upcoming Webinars April

Innovative and Inclusive Community Engagement; Neelay Bhatt, Vice President PROS Consulting Inc.

May

Emerging Technologies for Integrating Nature and Health into Parks and Recreation; Teresa Penbrooke, PhD, CPRE, CEO and Founder GreenPlay, LLC

June

Micro-Aggressions and Unconscious Bias; Tracey Crawford, CTRS, CPRPExecutive Director, Northwest Special Recreation Association

Youth Pickleball in the Parks!

By Jason Jamison, Contracted Advisor and Trainer, USA Pickleball

Pickleball is a paddleball sport that combines elements of badminton, table tennis, and tennis. Two or four players use solid paddles made of wood or composite materials to hit a perforated polymer ball, much like a wiffle. Wikipedia

Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the nation that appeals not only to seniors and retirees but is quickly catching the interest of youth and young adults due to its simplicity to learn, the fun social culture, and easy access to play.

Parks and Recreation facilities need to be prepared to handle the influx of youth players with appropriate programming opportunities that can be balanced with existing adult and senior play. So where do you begin?

Since pickleball is known for being a very social sport where people are often welcomed to participate, it’s important to leverage this culture for youth by establishing specific days or times at facilities in which kids can get together and play with their peers or family members.

For years now, skate parks have demonstrated how dedicated facilities for youth can be beneficial to the community by providing a safe place for kids to gather with friends and stay active.

Since courts in the afternoons are often more accessible with adults and seniors preferring the morning or evening times, it’s the perfect opportunity to establish Youth Pick-Up Pickleball.

Just like pick-up basketball and pick-up volleyball, kids can show up at designated times and play pickleball like adults often do in the mornings. It is recommended that a dedicated Play Supervisor welcome kids to participate and keep things going smoothly on the courts. Loaner paddles and balls can be checked out to get kids started. Over time, the courts will be filled with kids staying safe, active, and healthy

enjoying a lifetime sport at your facility.

In addition to providing supervised play opportunities for kids with Youth PickUp Pickleball, classes and camps can be offered. The beauty of pickleball is how easy it is to learn and the ability to play instantly. With that in mind, coaches should focus more on introducing and reinforcing basic fundamentals through guided play vs. technical instruction that can become boring quickly. Classes and camps should concentrate on games and dynamic play rotations similar to adult drop-in programs and mixers.

In regards to youth pickleball events, consider an alternative to the typical tournament format that rewards the top performers and can discourage others.

Instead, try offering half-day, nonelimination round robin events with kids getting multiple matches against a variety of players regardless of results. Group kids by age and ability to ensure an enjoyable experience for all!

Now’s the time to start promoting your summer program offerings and recruit and train staff to offer camps and classes.

USA Pickleball has a complete package of resources available to help schools, parks, and facilities to offer youth pickleball programs. Visit https://usapickleball. org/get-involved/organizers-educators/ to access free and membership-based

resources for your youth programs including a playbook of skill activities, fun games, and dynamic play rotations along with virtual training, instructional videos, deeply discounted equipment, and more!

Additionally, contracted and department staff can earn a Youth Pickleball Coach certification through the Professional Pickleball Registry Youth Play and Development course. It’s a 2-hour virtual workshop and includes a certificate for completion with options to obtain personal liability insurance if needed. It was developed in cooperation with USA Pickleball using the Youth Pickleball Playbook as a foundational resource for the training. For more information, visit: https://ptr.teachable.com/p/youthdevelopment-certificate.

We hope this information is helpful to you. For additional assistance with your pickleball operations, please contact, Hana Papaco, Recreation Coordinator for USA Pickleball at Hpapaco@usapickleball. org. She can help direct you to a USA Pickleball Ambassador in your community to help you further. Thanks for all you do to help make a difference in the lives of kids through fun and healthy recreation programs.

Author: Jason Jamison is a Contracted Advisor and Trainer for USA Pickleball and the Professional Pickleball Registry. He has developed youth programs and trained staff for over 25 years for schools, parks, and recreation organizations on a national and local level. He is the author of the USA Pickleball Youth Playbook and developed the PPR Youth Play and Development Course. He is a Certified Youth Sports Administrator with the National Alliance of Youth Sports.

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Join us for the Dollars for Scholars Golf Outing on May 10th

REGISTER YOUR TEAM TODAY!

The Indiana Parks and Recreation Foundation’s (IPRF) annual Dollars for Scholars Golf Outing presented by RLTurner Corporation will be May 10, 2022 at Eagle Creek Golf Course. We look forward to another successful year of raising funds for the IPRF Scholarship Fund, which supports the continuing education of park professionals & students in Indiana.

Thank You to Our Sponsors Presenting Sponsor:

Additional Sponsor: Browning Day • Context Design, LLC • Cripe • Commercial Recreation Group Don Seal • Lehman & Lehman, Inc. • Midstates Recreation • Miracle Playgrounds of Indiana Musco Sports Lighting • Norwalk Concrete Industries • PlayPros • PROS Consulting, Inc. Recreation inSites, LLC • Rundell Ernstberger Associates • Sinclair Recreation, LLC The Veridus Group • Zec Eight Insights

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2022 Events IPRA is dedicated to creating dynamic educational and networking opportunities that engage and excite while providing new and innovative ideas for serving today’s changing communities.

February 24

What’s on the Horizon; Everything from Y to Z Webinar Presented by: Lori Hoffner

March 7-8

Virtual AFO Training Course

April 5

Virtual CPSI Training Course

20

All Things Camp – IPRA Camp Summit, Avon

24 - 27 Indiana University’s Executive Development Program, Bloomington

May 10

IPRF Dollars for Scholars Golf Outing, Indianapolis

17

Invasive Species Webinar, with Stephanie Schuck at State of Indiana Cooperative Invasives Management

June 7

Switchyard Park District Meeting, Bloomington

22

IPRF Card Scramble Scholarship Fundraiser

22 - 23 IPRA Leadership Summit, Fishers 23

World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™

July 12

Floyd County Parks District Meeting, New Albany

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Columbian Park Zoo District Meeting, Lafayette

August 11

Murphy Park District/Aquatics Meeting, Avon

September 1

New Haven Community Center District Meeting, New Haven

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Trails Gathering, Zionsville

November 15 - 17 IPRA Conference & Expo IPRF Trivia Night ** Dates and locations are tentative and subject to change at any time.

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IPRAConnect.org

Have you used IPRA’s online membership community lately? Do you have a burning question or need to run an idea past other park professionals?

Are you new to IPRA and want to connect with other IPRA members?

We want to see you online!

IPRAConnect is a place for IPRA member park professionals to communicate with other members, access educational content, ask questions about a perplexing challenge, and invite your peers to weigh in. There is also a searchable buyer’s guide to simplify locating products from our IPRA corporate members... and SO MUCH more.

Creating an IPRAConnect account.

1.

Go to IPRAConnect.org and select create account.

2.

Fill out information and upload profile photo.

3.

Go to Community Directory and request access to all communities of interest to you.

4.

Network, ask questions, search Resource Center, or gain knowledge through our park professionals only social platform.

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Join us at All Things Camp IPRA CAMP SUMMIT April 20, 2022 | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM EST Camp directors, counselors, enthusiasts, programmers, and more!

We have planned this summit just for you! Let’s come together for a day of education, fun, and networking. During this summit you will find education sessions in the following topics: camp accreditation process, strategies for behavior management, social emotional curriculum, environmental education programming, staff orientation/ training, and so much more.

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Submit an Article Be featured in the Profile magazine.

We’re always looking for new, interesting things to feature in our magazine, so if you’re interested in contributing content for the upcoming editions, email Courtnie at courtnie@inpra.org.

IPRA Profile Magazine Submissions Guidelines : All articles must be educational and non-commercial in nature and must be pertinent to the parks field in a way that benefits and educates park professionals.

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pro

In order to comply with the non-commercial requirement above, an article may not specifically mention a business by name in the body of the article, but the business name/s can be included with the information about the author at the end.

We strongly encourage our corporate members to collaborate on articles with park department members to highlight their work and partnerships. Articles on new projects, programs or innovations will be given preference.

If the article features or mentions a park department, the director of the department must approve the contents prior to publication of the submission.

Any article submitted that does not meet these guidelines will not be published. IPRA retains the right to edit, publish or reject any article submitted based on these guidelines.

If you are interested in advertising in The Profile, please contact Felisha Canillas at felisha@inpra.org.

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Indiana Park & Recreation Association

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Indiana Park & Recreation Association 107 Logan Street Noblesville, IN 46060

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