Parks & Recreation - September 2015

Baltimore Teen Lifesaver | Dallas Dedication | CPRP : Living Up to the Hype SEPTEMBER 2015 W W W. N R PA . O R G

Using Art to Define Our Parks How creative art installations can be used to add character to parks and create connections with the wider community Page 58

2015 NRPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE ISSUE

Play + Sculpture = PlayForm 7 Great play engages on several levels; the same goes for public art. So we’ve merged the two. Sculpted play forms blend with an array of environments and architectural styles. They inspire imaginative, open–ended play experiences. Our newest play sculpture, PlayForm 7 gets people thinking, talking, sharing ideas and engaging in outdoor spaces in new, meaningful ways.

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contents september 2015

Michael Rainer

volume 50 | number 9 | www.nrpa.org

Paz de la Calzada’s Nomadic Labyrinth adds color and interest to public spaces where it is displayed.

COVER STORY

2015 NRPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE SECTION

58 Using Art to Define Our Parks

68 Las Vegas: The Entertainment Capital of the World

How creative art installations can be used to add character to parks and create connections with the wider community Paula Jacoby-Garrett

72 Team NEVADA Welcomes You to Las Vegas

FEATURES

Rod Dickens

64 Living Up to the Hype — The

Certified Park and Recreation Professional Certification

Michael A. Mulvaney 2015 Annual Conference | Baltimore Teen Lifesaver | CPRP : Living Up to the Hype SEPTEMBER 2015 W W W. N R PA . O R G

Using Art to Define Our Parks How creative art installations can be used to add character to parks and create connections with the wider community Page 58

2

Rod Dickens

Parks & Recreation

This month’s cover features artist Alice Aycock’s magnificent sculpture, Whirls and Swirls and a Vortex on Water, which appears to hover gracefully over a water feature in Central Broward Regional Park in Florida.

Photo by: Richard Hoch

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76 77 78

2015 NRPA Annual Conference Special Events Go, Team NEVADA Las Vegas Program Leaders NRPA Live Offers Virtual Conference Experience Tim Crosley

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contents september 2015

departments

columns

10 Letters

6 Perspectives

14 50th Anniversary Archive Throwback: Conference Season, 1998

16 Community Center Baltimore City Teenager Turns Hero 16 Notable News 18 NRPA Connect Hot Topics 20 #ImAParkAndRecKid, Are You? 20

22 By the Numbers Education: A Key to Success

24 People for Parks Dallas Dedication Samantha Bartram

28 Member to Member Get Out and Get Active Dave Burch, PLA

80 NRPA Update Innovation in the Windy City 80 Structured Recreation Programming Can Help Reduce Juvenile Crime 82 Perceptions of Local Recreation and Parks: 2015 Study 82 Member Benefits: Everything You Need to Succeed at the NRPA Career Center 83 Test Your Park and Recreation Knowledge 83 Member Spotlight: Patricia Armstrong 84 Staff Spotlight: Kevin Roth 85 Professional Development Calendar 86

88 Operations Managing the Canada Geese Population in Parks Del Williams

90 Products 91 Marketplace 95 Reader Service and Advertiser Index 96 Park Bench The (Not So) Itsy-Bitsy Spider Web Marissa Bracamonte

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Why the Land and Water Conservation Fund Still Matters Today Barbara Tulipane, CAE

8 Editor’s Letter The Art of Progress in Many Forms Gina Mullins-Cohen

32 Advocacy Your Help Is Needed to Secure Permanent LWCF Reauthorization David Tyahla

36 Law Review Competitive Bidding Fairness in Concession Contract James C. Kozlowski, J.D., Ph.D.

44 Future Leaders A Walk in the Park Tyler Tapps and Timothy J. Wall

46 Conservation Innovative Water Management at Ohiopyle State Park Visitor’s Center Michael W. Takacs

50 Health and Wellness Creating a Healthier South Bronx Sonia Myrick

54 Social Equity Equity in Agency Samantha Bartram

Page 34

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P E R S P E C T I V E S A M E S S A G E F R O M N R PA’ S L E A D E R S

Why the Land and Water Conservation Fund Still Matters Today While we celebrate NRPA’s 50th anniversary during 2015, there is another important anniversary that has much significance for NRPA and every person who works in or benefits from the field of parks, recreation and conservation — the 50th anniversary of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF).

No other federal legislation during the past half-century has been as effective for the cause of conservation, parks and recreation than the LWCF. None. LWCF has been responsible for: • The acquisition and protection of 7 million acres of open space.

• Providing funding for more than 40,000 parks, recreation facilities and playgrounds built across the United States.

• Serving as the lynchpin for leveraging matching expenditures by local and state governments in 98 percent of U.S. counties and territories.

• Protecting parks in perpetuity.

Everyone agrees that if the LWCF never existed, America’s conservation and recreation landscape would not look anything like it does today. But, alarmingly, this important legislation will expire on September 30 if Congress does not reauthorize it.

That’s right — even though LWCF has done so much to protect our nation’s natural resources it will cease to exist if Congress does not act.

Some argue that after 50 years, the LWCF has accomplished its purpose and as a result, our need for open space and parks and recreation facilities has been satisfied. While we agree that LWCF has helped to acquire land for thousands of parks and recreation facilities, our needs still remain great. PRORAGIS data, for example, show that local parks and recreation have a capital construction need that exceeds $71 billion dollars!

If you believe in what we do and the cause for which we stand, there has never been a more important time to call or email your members of Congress. Tell them, “Permanently reauthorize the LWCF and provide full, guaranteed funding for this program which is so important to me, my family and my community.”

Visit www.usa.gov/elected-officials to find information about how to contact your congressional representative or senator. You can also help highlight the unmet need in your community by hosting your congressional representative at a park or facility developed with the support of the State Assistance Program. To learn more about NRPA’s Park Champions initiative, visit www.nrpa.org/Park-Champions.

BAR BAR A T ULIPAN E, C AE President and CEO 6

Parks & Recreation

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NRPA’S MISSION: To advance parks, recreation and environmental conservation efforts that enhance the quality of life for all people.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Jack Kardys

Chair of the Board of Directors Detrick L. Stanford, CPRP

Miami-Dade Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department Miami, Florida

Clayton County Parks and Recreation Jonesboro, Georgia

Michael Kelly

Chair-Elect Susan Trautman, CPRP

Chicago Park District Chicago, Illinois

Great Rivers Greenway District St. Louis, Missouri

Brian Knapp

Past Chair Robert F. Ashcraft, Ph.D. ASU Lodestar Center Phoenix, Arizona

Treasurer Neelay Bhatt

NOVA Parks Fairfax, Virginia

Molly Stevens Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center Austin, Texas

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Albuquerque Parks and Recreation Department Albuquerque, New Mexico

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Five River Metro Parks Dayton, Ohio

Kevin Coyle National Wildlife Federation Washington, D.C.

Jennifer Harnish Streams and Valleys Fort Worth, Texas

Roslyn Johnson Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission Greenbelt, Maryland

Gastonia, North Carolina

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Parks & Recreation 7 8/11/15 3:50 PM

EDITOR’S LET TER

The Art of Progress in Many Forms A massive sculpture underway in China recently made global headline news. The sculpture, named Big Oil Bubble, was erected at the site of the first oil well in the burgeoning city of Karamay, but the news did not focus on the public showcasing of an artistic masterpiece. Instead, the headlines spoke to claims of forgery from artist Anish Kapoor, creator of the world-renowned sculpture, Cloud Gate (aka “The Bean”), that sits in Chicago’s Millennium Park and to which Big Oil Bubble bears a striking resemblance.

Sculptures and other artistic installations within parks is not a new idea, but it is one that is growing in popularity and for good reason. A prominent sculpture, such as Cloud Gate, in an urban park can attract thousands of tourists a year and generate millions of dollars in extra revenue.

Inside this issue of Parks & Recreation magazine, we tour several parks where the variety of art used to enhance public open space ranges from sculptures to intricate patterns and mazes created through landscape design. “Using Art to Define Our Parks,” by Paula Jacoby-Garrett, on page 58, will take you on a fascinating journey of the methods used to create and complement the beauty of park space with art.

This issue also recognizes NRPA’s 50th Annual Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, held September 15-17 at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Convention Center. Beginning on page 68, author Rod Dickens takes us on a tour of lesser-known places to go and things to do while in Las Vegas, followed by an overview of some of Team NEVADA’s most exciting facilities and parks. This section also includes details about Team NEVADA and this year’s Program Committee, as well as special events and information on how you can take advantage of Conference virtually, through NRPA Live.

Moving forward into the next 50 years, the importance of NRPA’s Three Pillars — Conservation, Health and Wellness, and Social Equity — are destined to become significantly more relevant than the day they were established. The tools afforded this industry through education and certification will help to ensure the future success of the Three Pillars. “Education: A Key to Success,” on page 22 of this issue, highlights the demand for robust accreditation programs and continuing education opportunities. Thousands of park and recreation professionals have taken advantage of NRPA’s top-quality professional development offerings — with 231 education sessions planned for this year’s Annual Conference, we’re betting thousands more will return to their home agencies armed with the knowledge they need to succeed.

Here’s to our continued success, as dedicated professionals and as a field with the power to change lives for the better. We hope you have a great Conference, and we invite you to visit us in booth 1271 and share your feedback and great ideas.

GINA MULLINS-COHEN Vice President of Marketing, Communications and Publishing Editorial Director 8

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PRESIDENT AND CEO Barbara Tulipane, CAE VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING, COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLISHING, AND EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Gina Mullins-Cohen gcohen@nrpa.org EXECUTIVE EDITOR Samantha Bartram sbartram@nrpa.org MANAGING EDITOR Sonia Myrick smyrick@nrpa.org EDITORIAL INTERNS Marissa Bracamonte mbracamonte@nrpa.org Catrina Belt cbelt@nrpa.org PUBLICATION DESIGN Creative By Design www.creativebydesign.net SENIOR MANAGER OF ADVERTISING Dana Storm 703.858.2174 dstorm@nrpa.org MAGAZINE ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS Nihal Advani CEO/Founder Georama Gerald Brown Director City of Sunset Hills Parks & Recreation Dept.

Ernest Burkeen Director Baltimore City Dept. of Recreation & Parks Gwendolyn Chambers Chief Communications Officer Baltimore City Dept. of Recreation & Parks Brendan Daley Director of Strategy and Sustainability Chicago Park District Ryan Eaker Nature-Based Programs Coordinator Lorraine “Grandma” Camacho Activity Center Robert García Founding Director and Counsel The City Project Kathleen Gibi Public Affairs Specialist City of Knoxville Parks and Recreation Paul Gilbert Executive Director Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority Sandra Gonzalez Director Pico Rivera Parks and Recreation Dept.

Greg Harrison Chief Marketing Officer Playworld Todd Lehman CEO/Founder Cre8Play Sam Mendelsohn CEO Greenfields Outdoor Fitness Dr. Kevin Riley Professor of Parks and Recreation Henderson State University Paula Sliefert Sr. Marketing Manager The Toro Company Anne-Marie Spencer Vice President, Corporate Marketing and Communications Playcore Stephen Springs Sr. Principal Brinkley, Sargent, Wiginton Architects Randy Wiger Parks Commons Program Coordinator Seattle Dept. of Parks & Recreation

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Letters We hope the articles you read in Parks & Recreation are thought-provoking and engaging, and we want to hear your opinions on what you read in these pages. Through social media posts, website comments, emails to staff or posts on NRPA Connect, let us know how the magazine’s articles apply to your job and your agency. To submit feedback for this section, email Executive Editor Samantha Bartram at sbartram@nrpa.org.

on end. It’ll be a sad day if everybody ever calls in a nuisance complaint.

Comment regarding James C. Kozlowski, J.D., Ph.D.’s March 2015 article, “Park Playground Ban on Adults Unaccompanied by Children,” www. parksandrecreation.org/2015/March/ Park-Playground-Ban-on-Adults-Unaccompanied-by-Children

Goats and other livestock certainly have their place in weed management, especially at sites that are dominated by weeds. It is important to note that they are nonselective eaters — they eat natives and nonnatives alike. Goats don’t necessarily kill weeds either, but they are another tool in the tool box.

Comment from Bruce Barbarasch, superintendent of natural resources and trails management at Tualatin Hills Parks and Recreation in Beaverton, Oregon, regarding NRPA Vice President of Conservation and Parks Richard J. Dolesh’s July 2015 article, “Got Weeds?

Get Goats!” www.parksandrecreation. org/2015/July/Got-Weeds-Get-Goats Choosing this program was the best decision I ever made! All 10 Parks

& Recreation

of the professors are truly supportive of all the students. I am proud to be an alumni of this program and proud to be a CTRS! Comment from Kendell Quillin, a former NRPA student member from Texas State University, regarding the June 2015 Open Space blog post, “NC2NV: Texas State University,” www.nrpa.org/Blog/ NC2NV-Texas-State-University This is some of the dumbest stuff I’ve ever heard of! What part of “public” do people not understand in the phrase “public park?!” On a public boardwalk where I live, there’s a (seemingly) mentally challenged individual who dresses like Richard Simmons and does dance exercises with roller skates and sticks for hours

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Great article…I totally agree with everything, but REALLY struggle with No. 2. As one professional recently said to me, “government isn’t designed or set to do good things, but rather to keep bad things from happening.” After 20 years and three agencies, there is much truth to this! In terms of innovation I see this every day.

While it’s not impossible to do one thing (or even a couple things) “innovatively” — most departments can usually point to something they did innovatively — developing a true culture of innovation is something completely different, and quite honestly usually completely missing from parks and recreation, and government departments in general. And this is a result of the reality of how departments are set up, authorized and managed, as well as risk management, not wanting to compete with the private sector, reactive versus proactive management, risk thresholds of decision makers/elected officials, and lack of understanding among decision makers. I would love to see or hear an in-depth presentation

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Letters

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on how, exactly, to create a true culture of innovation that also acknowledges and takes into account the true limitations of department directors/leaders.

Comment from Michael Kirschman, deputy director at Mecklenburg County, North Carolina’s Parks and Recreation Department, regarding Barbara Heller’s Open Space blog post, “Three Best Practices for Parks,” www.nrpa.org/Blog/Three-Best-Practices-for-Parks I believe that the public will support well-run parks with their taxes and fee dollars. Here in Florida, we have consistently voted to do so. The problem is that our local and state governments do not want well-run parks at all. They would rather privatize them for commercial gain. Contracting out services is viable for certain things such as garbage removal, construction/repair and removal of invasive plants and animals. But in no way should the public lose control of these priceless areas.

Comment from Darryl Saffer, filmmaker and composer at Studio Ray Productions in Sarasota County, Florida, regarding NRPA President and CEO Barbara Tulipane’s January, 2014 Perspectives column, “Park Privatization Issues Challenge Public Parks,” www.parksandrecreation.org/2014/January/Park-Privatization-Issues-Challenge-Public-Parks It seems very strange that you would list the Synthetic Turf Council (STC) among the other resources. STC exists purely to promote sales of recycled rubber-tire products into artificial turf sportsfields. STC lobbied the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) against having child health/safety standards applied to crumb rubber (such as limits on heavy metals.) STC was critical in helping to defeat a California bill for a temporary moratorium on crumb rubber in sportsfields so research into safety/health concerns could be completed. For a balanced representation on this topic, why don’t you also list Environment and Human Health, Inc.? That will give your readers a better understanding of health concerns related to crumb rubber: www.ehhi.org/turf. Recycled tires should be used in highways, road repairs and appropriate applications. Keep crumb rubber — with its carcinogens, heavy metals, endocrine-disrupting chemicals and carbon black, away from places where children play.

Comment from Maggie Pinson, a resident of Edmonds, Washington, regarding NRPA Senior Manager of Professional Development Caroline Smith’s Open Space blog post, “Why Crumb Rubber is in the News,” www.nrpa.org/Blog/Why-Crumb-Rubber-is-in-the-News

Archive Throwback: Conference Season, 1998

By Samantha Bartram

L

ate 1990s America saw a great deal of transition as its inhabitants began settling comfortably into the Internet age and prepared for the coming of the new millennium. 1998, specifically, enjoyed a not insignificant share of controversy and innovation: then-President Bill Clinton’s extramarital affair was revealed to the world, the Kosovo War began, Google Inc. was founded and the United States launched its first contribution to the International Space Station, among other happenings.

And while all these events and many more were noteworthy, one particular natural occurrence captured the full attention of NRPA and its members. That fall, final preparations were underway for the 1998 Congress & Exposition in Miami Beach, Florida. As is the case to this day, organizers, educators and volunteers spent months preparing to host the 33rd annual event, scheduled for the end of September.

While these capable professionals planned well for an influx of 4,000 attendees to the Miami Beach Convention Center, they could not have prepared for their most intrusive visitor: Hurricane Georges.

The Category 2 hurricane made seven landfalls during its almost month-long reign of destruction and was the second most damaging storm of the season. Georges killed more than 600 people and caused approximately $10 million worth of damage — a figure that in today’s currency would be more like $14 billion.

It also forced then-Miami-Dade 14 Parks & Recreation

County Mayor Alex Penelas to declare a state of emergency Wednesday, September 23, 1998, resulting in the mandatory closing of the Miami Beach Convention Center and the effective cancellation of the 1998 NRPA Congress, which was scheduled to begin in the space that very day. In the October 1998, edition of Parks & Recreation magazine, then-NRPA Executive Director Dean Tice penned a letter expressing his apologies and regret.

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“It is with great dismay that I look back upon ‘what could have been,’” Tice wrote. “The amount of planning and preparation — on the part of our hosts, delegates, exhibitors and staff — that went virtually for naught is devastating to all who were involved in the Congress,” he continued.

This year, hurricanes are unlikely to disrupt our activities in Las Vegas.

As we celebrate our 50-year anniversary, earn CEUs, meet our colleagues and wander in awe through the extensive exhibit hall, let’s also pause to reflect on the concept of resiliency. Not just as it relates to NRPA’s ability to roll with Mother Nature’s sucker punches, but also as it relates to our entire field. Park and recreation professionals are tough, creative, passionate and eager to improve — that’s why, once a year, we stock up on business cards and ready ourselves for three days of education, networking and site visits during NRPA’s Annual Conference. It’s what brings us together, and most years, it would take a spontaneous natural disaster to keep us apart.

Samantha Bartram is the Executive Editor of Parks & Recreation magazine (sbartram@nrpa.org).

10 Years after Hurricane Katrina Help ensure the children in your care will be safe in disasters.

Cheer, race and dance your way to readiness with the Prep Rally Camp, a free, turnkey emergency preparedness curriculum from Save the Children and the Foundation for Sustainable Parks and Recreation. Give children the skills they need to weather any storm that may come their way.

Find Prep Rally Camp materials, trainings and more at: www.savethechildren.org/parks.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Community Center Baltimore City Teenager Turns Hero

By Catrina Belt

S

ince a very young age, Phillip Ellison knew he wanted to become an emergency medical technician. When he was 13 years old, he began volunteering for the Baltimore City Recreation and Parks Department (BCRP) at Cherry Hill Splash Park pool with the goal of wearing the red and white shirt of a lifeguard. By the next year he was hired as a pool attendant and began training in CPR and AED, bringing him that much closer to his dreams. Now, 16 years old and a student at Vivian T. Thomas Medical Arts Academy, Phillip is already being hailed as hero after saving the life of a 5-year-old boy.

On Saturday, June 6, Phillip was walking to his aunt’s house in his neighborhood of Cherry Hill when he saw a young boy on a bicycle get struck by a dirt bike rider. After witnessing the hit and run, the future EMT jumped into action to

help the severely injured boy who had stopped breathing. As a crowd formed around them, Phillip’s training kicked in and he began to perform CPR on the boy in the middle of Round Street. After waiting 45 minutes for the ambulance with

Philip Ellison, second from left, stands alongside Baltimore City Recreation and Parks Director Ernest Burkeen (far left), Baltimore City Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake (center), Baltimore City Fire Department Chief Niles Ford (second from right) and Baltimore City Recreation and Parks Aquatics Director Darryl Sutton (far right).

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paramedics to arrive, the boy was transported to the hospital where he remained in critical condition.

Today the boy is doing well and Phillip is being regarded as a hero by his family, friends and community. “We are very proud, but not surprised. We train first responders and provide constant in-service trainings to prepare them for emergencies,” says Darryl Sutton, aquatics director for BCRP. “Our pool attendants wear blue shirts and Phillip always talked about one day becoming a lifeguard and getting to wear that red and white shirt. Turns out that red and white were only colors because as a pool attendant, Phillip was ready.

“Phillip and countless others give us their summers and in exchange we give them skills for a lifetime,” Sutton continues. “Many of our staff go on to become firemen, police, teachers, etc. and touch the community in ways one could never imagine.

When I think about Phillip and his accomplishment at his young age, I feel very proud to work, train and interact within the city of Baltimore.”

On June 10, at City Hall in front of his family and community, Phillip was recognized for his heroism

by Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake. “After a 5-year old boy was hit by a dirt bike earlier this week, this brave young man leapt into the fray,” Mayor Rawlings-Blake said before presenting Phillip with his Mayoral Citation.

“Because of his training — and that

is a testament to the Department of Recreation and Parks and the Aquatics Division — and because of his character, he knew exactly what to do…When paramedics arrived at the scene, it was because of Phillip’s heroism that the boy was alive.”

The Value of CPR Phillip’s speedy reaction to perform CPR, although instinctual to him, is nothing to overlook. According to the American Heart Association, only 32 percent of cardiac arrest victims get CPR from a bystander. It is also reported that 70 percent of Americans feel helpless to act during cardiac emergency because they either do not know how to administer CPR or their training has significantly lapsed.

These are especially alarming statistics considering that effective bystander CPR provided immediately after cardiac arrest can double or triple a victim’s chance of survival.

“You never know when you may be the difference between life and death. Just thinking about not having the skillset to try is scary,” says Sutton. “We work in an industry where the penalty for error can lead to death. When kids think about going to the pool, they only think about diving, swimming and fun times. We think about prevention, safety and people returning home in the same condition or better after having an enjoyable experience. Accidents happen and when they do, we have to be ready; we are first responders.

That’s why we train, we observe and we react. For the community, learning CPR is a great idea and the life you save is likely to be a family member, a friend or in Phillip’s case, a neighbor.”

Catrina Belt is an Editorial Intern for Parks & Recreation magazine (cbelt@nrpa.org).

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Community Center

Notable News n Bloomberg Philanthropies recently announced the first eight cities chosen for its new $42 million initiative, What Works Cities, to help mayors and planners make the most of big data. The goal is eventually to help 100 midsized U.S. cities with populations between 100,000 and 1 million by boosting open government in municipalities around the country, writing best practices guidelines and streamlining the use of data as it applies to effective policymaking, including planning and financing for parks and recreation.

The first eight cities are Chattanooga, Tennessee; Jackson, Mississippi; Kansas City, Missouri; Louisville, Kentucky; Mesa, Arizona; New Orleans, Louisiana; Seattle, Washington; and

Tulsa, Oklahoma. Each will receive local support and education in capitalizing on data to improve resident’s lives. What Works Cities will first review each city’s current use of open data and then design a customized approach mayors can use to address issues such as economic development, public health, job creation and blight. n A recent study by Jessica Finlay, a University of Minnesota graduate student, in conjunction with a team from Vancouver, British Columbia, shows that older adults may also benefit from more experience with nature. The study, which was published in the journal Health and Place, found that even relatively mundane experi-

ences, such as hearing the sound of water or a bee buzzing among flowers, can have a tremendous impact on overall health. Finlay found that while younger people may use green and blue spaces — environments with running or still water — to escape and rejuvenate from their busy work life, the participants in her study, people age 65 to 86, used nature to be active physically, spiritually and socially in later life. Many overcame barriers due to chronic illness, disability and progressing old age to connect regularly with green and blue spaces.

For more news from around the industry, visit www.parksandrecreation. org/2015/September/Notable-News.

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NRPA Connect Hot Topics

I

f you had the opportunity to ask 50,000 of your colleagues for advice or help with answering a question, would you take it? NRPA Connect is the only networking platform that provides you with direct access to professionals in your field. Check out the below preview of the hot topics that are being discussed: Social Media Advertising — Facebook, Twitter and other social media platforms are popular places to run advertising campaigns. Professionals weigh in on their experience with these sites, as well as the process of paying for the advertisements.

Cloudy Pool Water — Pool season may be coming to an end, but cloudy pool water is a hot topic and common problem among park and rec professionals. Log in to learn more about what causes this issue and what solutions are available to help.

Bee Hives in Public Parks and Gardens — Contemplating permitting bee hives in your park or garden space?

Your colleagues share the pros and cons of their experiences. They also offer suggestions for forging agreements with the beekeepers.

Swim Suit Requirements — How does your aquatic facility enforce swim suit rules? Your colleagues discuss clothing that is prohibited, including basketball shorts, sports bras and denim of any kind. If you’re struggling with this issue as well, you will learn tips on how to enforce this rule, while kindly educating the public on your pool attire requirements.

Visit www.nrpaconnect.org to join one or more of the conversations taking place today!

#ImAParkAndRecKid, Are You? Last month, NRPA launched the #ImAParkAndRecKid campaign, where we want everyone to share their stories and favorite memories about how their local parks and recreation helped shape who they are today. The goal of this campaign is to challenge people to share their experiences and inspire others to discover their own Park and Rec Kid story. Getting involved is easy — take a short video telling your Park and Rec Kid story and then challenge others to do the same. Post to Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube using #ImAParkAndRecKid. Learn more about the campaign at www.nrpa.org/park-rec-kid.

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By the Numbers

Education: A Key to Success Education is one of the key functions of NRPA, and we have the stats to show it. From accredited college programs to our own learning resources, NRPA understands that education is one of the building blocks of a successful park and rec agency with qualified employees. You can even educate yourself a little more right now by checking out the below data we’ve collected about education programs affiliated with NRPA.

78: Number of accredited park and recreation degree

programs in 33 states

2,444: Number of online learners in 2014 1,354: Number registered for webinars in 2014 116: Highest attendance during a 2014 webinar 7,000: Number of certified Aquatic Facility

Operators (AFOs)

6,960: Number of Certified Playground

Safety Inspectors (CPSIs)

4,620:

Number of Certified Park and Recreation Professionals (CPRPs)

81:

Percentage of members who rate the overall quality of all NRPA instructors as high or very high

2,500-plus:

Number of library resources on NRPA Connect

5: Number of professional schools (Directors,

Event Management, Maintenance Management, Revenue Development and Management and Supervisors Management)

231:

Total number of education sessions at the 2015 Annual Conference Source: Data courtesy of Matthew Cowan, NRPA’s Education Program Specialist

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People For Parks Dallas Dedication From her home base deep in the heart of Texas, former NRPA Board Chair Lois Finkelman has established herself as a lifetime friend of parks and recreation

By Samantha Bartram

L

ast month we brought you the voices of some of NRPA’s earliest supporters as part of our 50th anniversary retrospective. Those gentlemen (Joe Caverly, Jim Peterson, R. Dean Tice, Tony Mobley and Robert Toalson — their Q&As can be found at http://ezine.parksandrecreation.org/HTML5/ NRPA-Parks-Recreation-Magazine-August-2015) were but a few of the brilliant leaders who helped to lay the strong foundation on which NRPA stands today.

NRPA’s modern iteration looks markedly different than the organization first created back in 1965. The composition of its board of directors has changed, its regional offices, once scattered across the country, have closed and the Ahrens Institute in Ashburn, Virginia, now serves as the national headquarters. It took the vision and dedication of many individuals to see NRPA through its evolutions, including that of Lois Finkelman, who served as chair of the NRPA Board of Directors from 2007 to 2010. When the Illinois native and now-Dallas, Texas, resident, joined the board, it included more than 60 members and was difficult to organize and manage. “There was dual leadership, with the chair being a citizen and the president a professional,” Finkelman explains.

“Regional Councils were also part of the structure, but conversations had begun regarding reducing the size of the board and eliminating the Regional Councils, primarily as a result of cost and what was seen as redundant layers of governance.” Finkelman was instrumental in moving those conversations along, easing the organization through a major transition that culminated with the hiring

24 Parks & Recreation

of our current President and CEO, Barbara Tulipane.

Here, Finkelman talks about her long career as an advocate for parks and recreation and her thoughts about the future of our field.

Parks & Recreation magazine: Begin by giving us some background — how did your career start and how did you initially come to be connected to NRPA? Lois Finkelman: I grew up in Chicago…did my undergraduate work in elementary education at Northwestern University and, years later, after my children were born, received a double master’s degree at the University of Texas at Dallas in environmental science and science education. Later, I taught elementary school in Columbus, Ohio, while my husband finished medical school, and ultimately, we ended up in Dallas with three children and two dogs.

I became involved in a local environmental group and chaired it for three years. That visibility led to being appointed by the Dallas City Council to the City of Dallas Park and Recreation Board for eight years. I chaired the board for three terms. In those days, NRPA’s governance included Region-

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al Councils, Branches and Sections. I was encouraged by park department staff to allow my name to be put in for the Southwest Regional Council without knowing that it would also mean I would become a trustee on the national NRPA board. Was I surprised!

I was an active Dallas Park Board member and had become fairly knowledgeable about the issues, and I think the staff was looking for citizen members who would be engaged. I served on the NRPA board for many years, chairing committees, being elected vice-chair and ultimately chair. In the meantime, my role in Dallas had changed. I completed my terms on the Park Board and then ran for the Dallas City Council where I served for eight years.

P&R: Talk about one of your most notable projects/successes/experiences while serving on the Dallas Parks and Recreation Board and on the Dallas Parks Foundation.

Finkelman: As I became president of the board, the Dallas form of government changed and the Park Board went from seven members appointed at-large by the City Council to 15…I had 13 brand-new members with very little, if any, city experience and all kinds of expectations about their power and influence. Our former park department director had resigned a few months before and an interim was serving as director. I was successful in persuading the board (unanimously) to appoint the interim as the director to help stabilize the department and the new inex-

perienced board. A number of those board members have gone on to serve in higher elected offices. The director served for more than 20 years, almost unheard of in an urban system, until he retired a few years ago.

P&R: What would you consider your greatest success as NRPA board chair?

Finkelman: I’d have to point to two different actions that I think of as successes with lasting impacts. The first one is overseeing and implementing the board’s decision to decrease its size and vote in a process that accomplished that. This ultimately led to a smaller, more responsive board and to the decision to annually rotate a single leadership role between a citizen and a professional.

The second, and perhaps more significant success, was in hiring Barbara Tulipane as NRPA CEO during my tenure as chair. We were looking for new energy — someone who could potentially be a game changer and lead NRPA into new arenas and challenges without changing the organization’s mission.

I believe we more than accomplished that when Barbara was hired. From my perspective, now as an outsider, NRPA has become a much more relevant organization as it has adopted current concerns like health and wellness without losing the focus on park and recreation systems and the programs and opportunities they provide.

P&R: Why do you feel parks and recreation is a vital element for healthy, happy and robust communities?

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25

People for Parks Finkelman: There are so many roles that park and recreation systems play in a community that it’s hard to know where to begin. The first is obviously the opportunity to exercise, recreate and just enjoy the beauty of nature as an escape. Participation in team sports for young children helps build future leaders and citizens, and, at a minimum, teaches them how to work with others. While there are many private athletic facilities, many people either can’t afford them or choose to use the public open space and facilities to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Obesity and diabetes are major issues in our communities today and parks and recreation helps to address them by providing targeted programming and exercises. Peo-

ple continue to try to quantify the economic benefits from having a strong park and recreation system, both from user revenue and the added property values realized in areas with attractive and accessible parks.

Many corporate leaders have indicated that two of the major factors they consider when mulling relocation are the schools and the park and recreation system.

P&R: What do you feel is the most pressing issue facing the field of parks and recreation today?

Finkelman: I think that in spite of the very real connection between health and wellness and the role parks and recreation plays in creating and sustaining healthy communities, the most pressing issue

Extend voice YOUR

is not a new one. It’s ensuring that the local park and recreation departments are reliably funded in order to maintain their facilities, provide programs and acquire additional park land as needed. The same could certainly be said for state park systems and the national parks as well. At the local level, municipal systems continue to fight public safety for city budget dollars, often losing out to police and fire.

It’s critical that NRPA members continue to educate and support elected officials who understand the value of their parks and recreational opportunities.

Samantha Bartram is the Executive Editor of Parks & Recreation magazine (sbartram@nrpa.org).

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Member to Member Get Out and Get Active Waukesha County’s role in building healthy and livable communities

By David P. Burch, PLA

F

or several years, Waukesha County has ranked high as a healthy place to live, work and play, and it offers a great balance of communities, businesses, parks and open space, and resources. We are continually trying to improve and, in recent years, have focused on increasing access to and awareness of the many ways for people to stay active and improve their health. The last five words of our County Department of Parks and Land Use’s mission statement is, “the health of its citizens.”

Creating healthy places to live, work and play includes comprehensive planning and design. This occurs at several levels of our county and local municipalities, and uses the skills and knowledge of our staff of landscape architects and planners. Our efforts, coordinated with state agencies such as the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Wisconsin Department of Transportation and Southeastern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission, allow for

synergetic discussion, priorities and solutions. Comprehensive Park and Open Space Plans, and site-specific Master Plans developed by our staff and teams offer short- and long-term solutions that promote: • Improved access to active opportunities and healthy choices • Active living and play benefits awareness through multiple partnerships • Lean and efficient operations, with the focus on sustainability and enhanced revenue opportunities

Here, the author enjoys a spot of golf at Waukesha County’s Naga-Waukee War Memorial Golf Course.

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2012 to 2015 Initiatives Collecting data, creating benchmarks and documenting progress are important elements of aligning agencies with potential funding sources.

Waukesha County regularly updates its National Public Health Performance Standards Program (NPHPSP) and Local Public Health System Performance Assessment. This data allows us to understand opportunities for improvement and partnerships offering new avenues to educate and promote healthy and active living. Partnerships between health and park and recreation agencies offer a great opportunity for improving long-term health solutions.

Our marketing theme for 2012 was, “Just Beyond Your Backyard,” playing on NRPA’s “America’s Backyard” theme. All year, outreach to and education for our citizens focused on communicating the accessibility of our parks and facilities to the public, improving our outreach to volunteers and youth and connecting to area businesses.

At the December 2012 Workshop for Active Communities in the State of Wisconsin, agency teams discussed strategies for building places, programs and partnerships to promote more healthy and livable communities. And, for 2013, we launched the following 13 Great Ways to Better Health, promoting our park system: 1. Find and explore two new parks each season.

2. Walk a new trail each month.

3. Bike a trail twice a month.

4. Swim at every one of the six beaches.

5. Picnic at each of the eight major parks.

6. Enjoy a nature or bird watching hike at the Retzer Nature Center.

7. Play with your dog at one of the dog exercise areas.

8. Try the new mountain bike trails at Minooka Park (2014 host of the inaugural State of Wisconsin High School Mountain Bike Series) 9. Volunteer for an event/workday in the parks.

10. Run or snowshoe on a trail twice a week.

11. Go camping.

12. Go sledding.

13. Discover ice skating at one of the ice arenas.

In 2014 and 2015, Waukesha County launched “How We Play, Where We Play, and Why We Play” to promote the park system and active play opportunities. This was a takeoff on the Wisconsin Bike Federation’s theme “How We Ride, Where We Ride, and Why We Ride.”

We are continuing to offer a large community garden space at Expo/ Northview Park, and we expanded the community gardens for vegetables and produce at Eble Park, working alongside the University of Wisconsin-Extension Master Gardeners Program to produce healthy vegetables for families and local agencies in need. At Retzer Nature Center, we expanded the exhibit garden space with raised gardens to showcase healthy native flowers and produce.

The city of Waukesha launched its “Waukesha Walks” program, where local ambassadors lead neighborhood walks for fitness and historical interest. As a way to offer improved healthy benefit choices, the coun

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Member to Member What’s Next?

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habits. The process of coordinating this effort among related professions and agencies is important from a viewpoint of roles and responsibilities, and overall funding collaboration. This subject has grown immensely in the last five years, and has become a key topic at professional association conferences.

Communities and agencies across the country are building teams to address the national crisis of obesity.

Providing a wide variety of choices for places with easy access for people to enjoy indoor and outdoor recreation is paramount to achieving success. Getting out and doing things, and moving away from the electronic, indoor, thumb-based activities that we have created for our children, will help to improve the chance of social interaction, play, recreation and enjoyment of nature’s beauty.

For 2016, we are continuing to promote the Get Out and Get Active campaign, as getting and staying active, along with eating healthy and nutritious foods will go a long way in helping set the stage for healthy individuals, families and communities. We are making plans to elevate the role of parks and recreation in the journey of building more healthy and livable communities. This effort is connected to our strategic goals of improving quality of life opportunities, and setting the right stage for economic vitality in Waukesha County.

Detailed references for this article are available online at www.parksandrecreation.org/2015/September/ Get-Out-And-Get-Active.

David P. Burch, PLA, is the Manager of the Waukesha County Department of Parks and Land Use (dburch@waukeshacounty.gov).

30 Parks & Recreation

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ADVOCACY

Your Help Is Needed to Secure Permanent LWCF Reauthorization

By David Tyahla [Ed. Note: During the past few months, the future of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) has been a topic of spirited debate between key Capitol Hill legislators and in the pages of Parks & Recreation magazine. Beginning with House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Rob Bishop (UT-01) in our May edition, followed by responses from the Committee’s Ranking Democratic Member, Raul Grijalva (AZ-03), in July and Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chair, Sen. Lisa Murkowski, of Alaska, in the August issue, we’ve provided an increased understanding of the differing opinions and complex debate over the law in Congress. With the LWCF scheduled to expire September 30, we felt it important to reiterate NRPA’s position and efforts to see this critical program reauthorized, but with a more fair and equitable treatment for the State Assistance Program.]

P

rior to departing for their annual August break, members of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee approved comprehensive energy legislation that includes a provision to permanently reauthorize the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF).

The bipartisan bill, from Chairman

32 Parks & Recreation

Sen. Lisa Murkowski (AK) and ranking Democrat Sen. Maria Cantwell (WA), would specify minimum annual allocations within LWCF, including maintaining the current 40 percent minimum per year for federal land acquisition and add at least 1.5 percent per year for access to federal land for sportsman and recreational purposes.

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Most significant, the measure would require a minimum of 40 percent of annual LWCF appropriations for a combination of “stateside” programs, including State Assistance, Forest Legacy, endangered species grants and an “American Battlefield Protection” program.

This compromise bill would not guarantee LWCF money. The program would still be subject to the annual appropriation process.

NRPA has come out in strong support of a permanently reauthorized LWCF, but has expressed concern that the legislation, as proposed, would combine multiple worthwhile conservation initiatives into what could be viewed as a “stateside” suite of LWCF programs. While we support the goals

of each of these programs, if LWCF continues to be funded at current annual levels, this would likely leave State Assistance no better off than it is today with regard to its overall funding position (State Assistance received $42 million for formula grants to the states in 2015).

We’ve been joined in our position on LWCF by partner organizations, including the American Planning Association (APA), U.S. Conference of Mayors, National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials (NACPRO), National Association of State Outdoor Recreation Liaison Officers (NASORLO) and National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD), and have sent a message to the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee leadership thanking them for their efforts and expressing support for permanent reauthorization. The messaage also raises concerns about the existing amount of funding going to State Assistance and how the proposal may not improve the situation. Our message concludes by stating: We ask that the issue of reliable, dedicated funding to state and local park and recreation purposes be addressed during the ongoing legislative process. We firmly support LWCF reauthorization and hope that we can work with you to strengthen the commitment to state and local parks so that the 80 percent of the country that reside in metropolitan areas can fully benefit from this visionary law.

During the July 28 committee working session, Sen. John Barrasso (WY) attempted to tip the spending balance toward “stateside” grants by offering an amendment to boost the allocation from 40 percent to 50 percent. The committee rejected the amendment by a 7-15 vote, even though Chairman Murkowski came out in support of it.

Barrasso said, “My amendment supports urban parks and makes sure more people will be able to recreate, play and exercise outdoors in their local community, in their local parks. These projects have a direct impact on quality of life in their communities.” Opponents expressed their concern that the amendment could upset the balance that bill sponsors struck in writing the provision and stressed the importance of flexibility for Congress to address priorities that change from year to year.

NRPA, along with our partner organizations, have shared our gratitude to Sen. Barrasso and Chairman Murkowski for speaking out in support of close-to-home recreation and local community parks during Committee debate. Meanwhile, with LWCF scheduled to expire at the end of this month and the Senate taking assertive steps in its attempt to reauthorize the law, the House of Representatives has yet to take action.

Natural Resources Committee Republicans hold mixed feel

W W W. N R PA . O R G | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5 |

Parks & Recreation

33

ADVOCACY

ings about LWCF. They object to added federal land acquisition; yet, they acknowledge the national popularity of the underlying program.

NRPA Policy and Advocacy NRPA remains steadfast in our support for a permanent and fully funded LWCF that protects the interests of states and local communities by providing fair and equitable treatment for the State Assistance Program of no less than 40 percent guaranteed funding for formula grants to the states for active outdoor recreation.

This is the same amount required by law to be allocated to the LWCF federal land acquisition program.

With regard to the Senate proposal currently under consideration, NRPA will pursue efforts to modify

34 Parks & Recreation

the measure so that the “stateside” percentage is increased and/or there be some sort of additional account dedicated to local community parks in the final approved Senate measure.

We remain in an ongoing dialogue with the House of Representatives as it continues to craft its own LWCF reauthorization bill.

Your Help Is Urgently Needed With only days remaining until LWCF’s expiration, your involvement — no matter how simple — can make a major difference.

Throughout September, NRPA and APA are partnering to urge members to take action on Twitter and tell their elected officials how the LWCF has provided necessary federal funding for the creation and preservation of

| S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 5 | W W W. N R PA . O R G

parks and public spaces in their local communities through the State Assistance Program. It’ll take just a minute or two — here’s a sample tweet to get you started: [PARK NAME] was funded by LWCF and brings people together![@ YourMemberofCongress] #RenewLWCF @NRPA_News [INCLUDE PHOTO] As members of Congress return from their August recess, it’s more important than ever that you take action. Visit www.nrpa.org/advocacy for examples of the LWCF State Assistance Program’s impact in your locale and www.nrpa.org/Renew-LWCF to learn how to get involved in this social media campaign.

David Tyahla is NRPA’s Senior Government Affairs Manager (dtyahla@nrpa.org).

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Competitive Bidding Fairness in Concession Contract

By James C. Kozlowski, J.D., Ph.D.

L

ocal governments are customarily given a general power to contract, which is ordinarily interpreted to authorize all contracts necessary to accomplish the purposes and objectives of the local governmental unit as expressed in the state constitution, state laws or corporate charter.

For example, Virginia state law authorizes local park authorities “to enter into any contracts. . . for or relating to the furnishing of park services or facilities.”

When the manner of entering into a public contract is not prescribed by statute or charter, including competitive bidding, the adoption of a method of contracting is left in the control of the governing body of the local unit.

That being said, in most jurisdictions, the mode of contracting is oftentimes prescribed by statute or charter.

As illustrated by the case described herein, in the absence of an applicable mandatory competitive bidding process prescribed by law, local gov-

36 Parks & Recreation

ernment officials are generally vested with significant discretion in choosing among competitive bids from qualified concessionaires. Under such circumstances, judicial review of the bidding process for a particular park concession contract may apply a deferential “fairness” standard.

In so doing, the court will determine whether the decision to accept or reject a particular bid constituted a completely arbitrary abuse of discretion by local government officials.

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Paddle Contract In the case of Kayak Centre v. Town of Narragansett, 2015 R.I. LEXIS 83 (R.I. 6/15/2015), the Supreme Court of Rhode Island considered a challenge to a concession contract bidding process for operation of a paddle sports business on townowned land.

The reported opinion of the state supreme court provided the following description of the facts in the competitive bidding case: Plaintiff Kayak Centre is a Rhode Island limited liability company that operates paddle sports businesses at two locations, one in Charlestown and one in the village of Wickford in North Kingstown. Narrow River is also a Rhode Island limited liability com-

pany; it owns and operates a paddle sports business at 94 Middlebridge Road in Narragansett (the property).

In August 2012, the town acquired a 9.5-acre parcel of land that included the property on which Narrow River’s business was located. Narrow River continued to operate its business on the land after the town took ownership of the property. However, in August 2013, the town invited

in the bids received and to accept and award the bid to the highest qualified bid deemed most favorable to the interest of the town.”

Four bidders initially expressed an interest by attending an advertised pre-bid meeting, but, in the end, only Kayak Centre and Narrow River submitted bids to the town. Bidders were asked to state the amount of a proposed “annual

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is not prescribed by statute or charter, including competitive bidding, the adoption of a method of contracting is left in the control of the governinig body of the local unit. competitive bidding for a five-year concession contract to operate a paddle sports business on the property. One rationale for the decision was described by Robert O’Neill, the chairman of the town’s Land Conservancy Trust, who said it was “good business sense to say, ‘We’ll see what other proposals [for the paddle sports concession at the property] people will bring forward.’” To begin the process, the town’s purchasing agent, Susan Gallagher, and the Director of the town’s Parks and Recreation Department, Steven Wright, prepared a package and advertised the invitation to bid on the concession award.

The invitation specified a submission date of August 29, 2013, required that all bidders have a minimum of five years of experience operating a paddle sports business, and asked for references who could attest to prior experience. The invitation also stated the town, “reserves the right to reject any/all bids, waive any informalities

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payment” that they would be willing to make to the town. A minimum amount of $15,000 annually was specified in the bid package.

Kayak Centre proposed $180,505 in total payments over the projected five-year period, while Narrow River’s bid proposed $100,500. In accordance with the invitation to bid, the bids were opened by the town’s Parks and Recreation Department and were then examined in order to issue a report to the town council before it awarded the concession.

There was no dispute that Gallagher’s report “concluded that the Kayak Centre was the best and most qualified bidder and recommended that the town council award the municipal contract to the Kayak Centre.” The report stated, in part, “the Parks and Recreation Department is recommending this award based on the Kayak Centre’s 18-year experience in the paddle sports business, references and total bid offering.” Also, the town’s contacts with

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Kayak Centre’s references resulted in “all positive comments regarding the Kayak Centre operation.”

On October 7, 2013, the report was presented at a meeting of the town council and a motion was made to award the contract to Kayak Centre.

However, after some lengthy comments from the public and discussion among town councilors, the town council voted three to one to reject the motion to award the concession contract to plaintiff Kayak Centre.

Following this vote, the town solicitor, who was present at the meeting, then suggested that the next course of action would be to direct the staff to develop additional criteria and qualifications to be included in a new bid package for the town council’s review before it goes back out to bid.

The town council then “voted 3-1

to reject all bids and commence the bidding process again,” following the solicitor’s recommendation.

In the subsequent lawsuit, plaintiff Kayak Centre claimed the town had violated state laws governing the award of municipal contracts. Further, Kayak Centre sought a court order preventing the town from rebidding the concession contract.

Municipal Contract Law As cited by the state supreme court, state law (G.L. 1956 § 45-55-5), titled “Competitive Sealed Bidding,” required that all contracts for purchases exceeding $5,000 be awarded by competitive bidding unless the contract involved professional engineering/architectural services or a construction contract less than $10,000. Moreover, if the contract was to be awarded “on

the basis of the lowest bid price or the lowest evaluated or responsive bid price,” the invitation for bids was to state “the objective measurable criteria to be utilized.”

In this particular instance, the trial court found the state Competitive Sealed Bidding statute inapplicable to the facts of this case. Moreover, the trial court did not apply the generally applicable judicial standard of “fairness” to review the town’s conduct in competitive bidding. This “fairness” standard of judicial review would have required the court to determine whether the government “acted corruptly or in bad faith, or so unreasonably or so arbitrarily as to be guilty of a palpable abuse of discretion.”

Having found no violation of an applicable competitive bidding law, the trial court entered judgment in favor of the town. Kayak Centre appealed.

On appeal, Kayak Centre claimed the trial court had erred in ruling “the requirements of § 45-55-5 were inapplicable to the case.” In the alternative, Kayak Centre argued the town had violated the applicable standards of fairness enunciated by the state supreme court for competitive bidding.

Bidding Law Inapplicable In reviewing “the interpretation of a statute,” the state supreme court acknowledged that the “court must interpret the statute literally and must give the words of the statute their plain and ordinary meanings” when the language of a statute is “clear and unambiguous.”

As interpreted by the state supreme court, the language of § 45-55-9 was “clear and unambiguous” in that it required competitive bidding for contracts that exceeded “five thousand dollars ($5,000) for all other purchases.” Moreover, as cited by the court,

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the statute required that “the contract shall be awarded to the responsive and responsible bidder whose bid is either the lowest bid price, or lowest evaluated or responsive bid price,” (Section 45-55-5(e)). In the opinion of the supreme court, this statute was enacted by the state legislature to “regulate contracts that require the expenditure of public funds.” In so doing, the supreme court noted that the state legislature had not included “concession contracts” within the purview of § 45-55-5.

Moreover, in previous competitive bidding cases “where the awarding governmental entity selected a more expensive bidder for specified reasons,” the court noted that § 45-55-5 “does not preclude an awarding authority from taking into account factors beyond price.” In so doing, the court acknowledged that “choosing a seemingly higher initial bid from a more qualified party can lessen the risk of future unexpected expenses,” thus, fulfilling the purpose of the competitive bidding law in “safeguarding public funds.”

The state supreme court acknowledged the concession contract bid submitted by Kayak Centre would

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have provided more “public funds” to the town over a five-year period.

The state supreme court acknowledged the concession contract bid submitted by Kayak Centre would have provided more “public funds” to the town over a five-year period than the next closest bid submitted by Narrow River.

The Kayak Centre submitted a bid for the concession contract at issue in this case that would have had Kayak paying the town the sum of $180,505 in payments over the projected five-year period, while Narrow River’s bid proposed $100,500 in payments.

That being said, the state supreme court found the expressed language of “§ 45-55-9 explicitly provides that the contracts to which § 45-55-5 applies are ‘procurements’ and ‘purchases,’” with no mention of concession contracts.

In the opinion of the state supreme court, a contract involving expenditures does not involve “all of the same considerations” as a concession contract. Specifically, the higher payment bid for this particular concession contract was not similar to the lowest bid in a contract involving pur

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chases for procurements. As a result, the state supreme court agreed with the trial court that the Competitive Bidding Statute, as written, did not apply to the town’s action in this case.

We cannot rewrite the statute by es-

sentially exchanging the word lowest for the word highest, as plaintiff would have us do, because we will not insert words into an unambiguous statute.

We simply apply the words as written and the words of § 45-55-5 make it clear

the statute is inapplicable to these facts.

Accordingly, the state supreme court concluded “§ 45-55-5 does not apply to competitive bidding processes involving concession contracts, which are contracts that produce revenue and not purchases.” As a result, the state supreme court found the trial court had correctly ruled that § 45-55-5, the Competitive Sealed Bidding state statute, did not apply to the facts of this case.

In the opinion of the state supreme court, a contract involving expenditures does not involve “all of the same considerations” as a concession contract.

Good Faith Standard As noted by the state supreme court, prior to the competitive bidding statute being enacted into law, “there was already a standard that was used by this court when it reviewed bid disputes.”

In the absence of any legislative requirement pertaining to competitive bidding, it is the duty of the appropriate public officials to act honestly and in good faith as they determine which bidder would best serve the public interest.

According to the court, this judicial standard of review for competitive bidding afforded “a certain amount of deference to government officials.” Specifically, in applying this deferential standard of judicial review, a court should “not interfere with an award absent a showing that the board acted corruptly or in bad 40 Parks & Recreation

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faith, or so unreasonably or arbitrarily as to be guilty of a palpable abuse of discretion.”

Since it “never completed the bidding process and never awarded the concession to any bidder,” the town argued there was nothing for the court to review. The state supreme court disagreed.

According to the court, the standard of judicial review to be applied to “the process of awarding, or not awarding, a competitive bid” required good faith on the part of government officials. In this particular instance, the state supreme court found the trial court had erred in not determining whether the town had acted in good faith or not in awarding the concession contract to any bidder. Specifically, the trial court should have considered “whether the

be guilty of a palpable abuse of discretion” in not awarding a concession contract. In light of judicial deference in favor of such decisions by government officials, the state supreme court recognized that Kayak Centre faced

a difficult task of proving the town had violated the applicable good faith standard for competitive bidding.

In remanding this case, we remain cognizant of our earlier holdings that the bar for a potential challenger

The state supreme court found the trial court had erred in not determining whether the town had acted in good faith or not in awarding the concession contract to any bidder. town acted corruptly or in bad faith, or so unreasonably or so arbitrarily as to be guilty of a palpable abuse of discretion” under the circumstances.

The state supreme court, therefore, remanded (i.e., sent back) this case to the trial court for further proceedings to consider whether the town had “acted corruptly or in bad faith, or so unreasonably or so arbitrarily as to

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is extremely high. Corruption, bad faith and a palpable abuse of discretion are difficult to prove, particularly in the light of our antipathy for “government by injunction.”

In other words, courts are appropriately reticent to effectively dictate governmental operations through court orders prohibiting implementation of decisions by government officials.

Abuse of Discretion?

As described above, the town council rejected the report of its own purchasing agent as well as the recommendation of the Parks and Recreation Department. Regardless, absent proof of “a palpable abuse of discretion,” the court would still defer to the judgment of local officials. Accordingly, any doubts would

42 Parks & Recreation

be resolved in favor of upholding the town council’s decision to reject all bids and recommence the bidding process. Moreover, the reasonableness of this decision can be inferred from the expressed language in the bid invitation reserving the town’s right to “reject any/all bids.”

Further, the decision of the town council to reject the report and recommendation of its own municipal officials could also be viewed as a reasonable political response to “lengthy comments from the public” in deciding whether or not to award the concession contract to Kayak Centre. A perceived lack of public support for a prospective concession contract would certainly provide a rational basis for local politicians to reject the recommendation of local administrators. Perhaps, one

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Courts are appropriately reticent to effectively dictate governmental operations through court orders preventing implementation of decisions by government officials. could speculate that comments from members of the public favored preserving the status quo wherein Kayak Centre’s competitor, Narrow River, would continue to operate its existing paddle

Order: 1-877-609-2243

sports business on the property acquired by the town.

The opinion of the state supreme court described above did not provide a description of these public comments and subsequent discussion by the town council. On remand, the trial court would presumably conduct further proceedings to consider whether such public commentary might indeed have provided a reasonable basis for the decision to “reject all bids and commence the bidding process again.” Moreover, one could certainly argue that the town’s action was a reasonable decision to follow the legal advice of the town solicitor.

While the decision to remand preserved Kayak Centre’s lawsuit, as noted by the state supreme court, Kayak Centre faced a very difficult burden in trying to prove corruption, bad faith and a palpable abuse of discretion on the part of the town council in deciding to reject all bids and recommence the bidding process with additional criteria and qualifications to be included in a new bid package.

James C. Kozlowski, J.D., Ph.D., is an attorney and Associate Professor in the School of Recreation, Health and Tourism at George Mason University (jkozlows@gmu.edu). Webpage with link to law review articles archive (1982 to present): http://mason.gmu.edu/~jkozlows.

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FUTURE LEADERS

A Walk in the Park Direct experience with nature can unlock a child’s inherent desire to explore and see connections in the world around them

By Tyler Tapps and Timothy J. Wall

C

hild development is a fascinating area of study. However, sometimes we get so caught up in what is supposed to be occurring cognitively, physically and emotionally that we, as parents, uncles, aunts, grandparents, etc., forget to just stand back and watch what is happening with our children. Both of us are fathers of children who enjoy being outdoors, and this is a firsthand account of what we witness as benefits to our kids from playing in parks.

Children inherently want to move and explore the space around them.

There is no better avenue for this than in our parks. Most every park offers multiple forms of free-range learning.

Parks are attractive to children because they provide an avenue for escape from the structure of their daily lives. Any teacher would say that learning should start at any early age with hands-on experiences. In this case, learning should occur with nature in the parks. There

44 Parks & Recreation

is evidence that concern for the environment is based on affection for the outdoors that only develops with ungoverned contact with nature. The way children feel in the outdoors improves recall of information, creative problem solving and creativity.

In today’s culture, children are torn between the confining spaces of the couch, TV, computer screen and the cellphone. However, they often become motivated to learn when they

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can make their own discoveries in the outdoors. Our family visited parks in Wisconsin and Florida over an eightmonth span, and our 3- and 5-yearold girls demonstrated a love of parks and deep, memory-enhancing learning by experiencing nature firsthand.

Making Connections At Devil’s Lake State Park in Wisconsin, our girls explored the park, and, upon completing an age-appropriate, incredibly fun scavenger hunt to spot spider webs, native plants and animals, and a hiking trail, they earned their very own Wisconsin Explorer’s badges. Now, at least once a week, while exploring local parks and forests in Missouri, my children make connec-

tions. “This park looks just like Wisconsin,” said 3-year-old Karina, “because of the big trees. When can we go back to Wisconsin, dad?”

Their love of learning about the natural world carried over in a recent trip to the Gulf Coast of Florida, and Manatee Park in Lee County, Florida. As a dad, my goal is always to promote learning and conservation, while increasing health and critical thinking. I want my girls to ask why, make connections, and begin to see that they need to protect the parks.

While walking through a nature trail, with palms, mangroves and native birds, my 3-year-old made the connection between parks in Florida and Wisconsin as she played a game of Manatee Bingo. She saw a spider web, just like in the Wisconsin scavenger hunt. Karina wanted to know where the spider web was on the Manatee Bingo sheet, so I drew one in for her. I was pleased that she was able to connect back to exploring parks in Wisconsin. Thanks to parks, my girls were able to make deep connections that promote learning and instill an appreciation for conservation.

Computers or cellphones can never substitute for a multisensory experience that triggers young inquiring minds. Parks are the most obvious place to stimulate the learning process, but they must provide more than sports facilities, pools and/ or just serve a specific minority of children. At Devil’s Lake State Park, I appreciate that the department of natural resources created learning opportunities for youth. It invested in the backpacks that my junior explorers borrowed for their nature hikes and scavenger hunts, just as Manatee Park provided Bingo clipboards, ethnobotany trails and experiences that build connections for learning. Children also take what they have learned from one park experience and recall it while participating in a new experience. When our children participate in the design of spaces in their parks, they will also learn to respect nature and value the wildlife and land more fully.

In conclusion, we want to mention two things: (1) every day, parks offer children awesome benefits, such as a direct experience with nature and motivation to be explorers and to learn about their world in a healthy way; and (2) parks offer our children a sense of place, self-identity and belonging. We are not saying that every child will have these same experiences. We wanted to provide an example of how these parks are doing things right. In the day-to-day grind of the working world, it is easy to lose sight of those our parks are impacting.

Tyler Tapps, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Recreation Program at Northwest Missouri State University (tytapps@nwmissouri.edu).

Timothy Wall, Ed.D., is an Associate Professor in Professional Education at Northwest Missouri State University (timwall@nwmissouri.edu).

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Halkin-Mason Photography

ADVOCACY

The location of the visitor’s center close to the Youghiogheny River means that it is particularly important to manage stormwater flow from the building’s roof.

Innovative Water Management at Ohiopyle State Park Visitor’s Center

By Michael W. Takacs

O

hiopyle State Park, southeast of Pittsburgh, is well-known for kayaking and rafting through the rapids on the Youghiogheny River, hiking, mountain biking and other activities. As the largest and most-visited park in the Pennsylvania state park system — more than 1.5 million people annually — Ohiopyle needed a visitor’s center capable of serving a wide range of needs. The longstanding focus of park activities has been the waterfall near the borough of Ohiopyle. However, this central location offered limited services and an inadequate set of restrooms. There was no sense of welcome to the park and little information about the availability of activities, such as the mountain biking potential on routes that include part of the Great Allegheny Passage Trail.

In September 2014, the 11,500-square-foot Ohiopyle State Park Office/Laurel Highlands Falls Area Visitor’s Center started serving the public. Its official grand opening took place in June 2015, and the center now provides office space for park staff, restroom facilities for visitors and interpretive displays about the park.

46 Parks & Recreation

To carry out its mission of environmental stewardship and sustainability messaging, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) adopted criteria in which certain buildings are designed to qualify for U.S. Green Building Council LEED certification. DCNR currently has 10 LEED-certified and

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seven LEED-registered buildings. An unusual water-treatment solution has helped the newly built visitor’s center to gain some LEED points for innovation. As of mid-June 2015, LEED Gold certification has been applied for, but not yet awarded.

Biological Wastewater Treatment, with a Twist The water-management steps taken at Ohiopyle provide some useful lessons for other organizations seeking to manage their water impacts. As part of the journey toward LEED certification, the design team decided to incorporate biological treatment for sewage. This system would use a primary treatment tank that flows into a constructed subsurface wetland out-

Can You Eat a Playground? side the building. The water flowing out of the wetland is then drawn back into the building and run through indoor tanks located in a portion of the building that has large windows to provide natural light for the tropical plants used to help polish the treated water. The treated flow from this process can then be used for flushing toilets and urinals where potable water is not needed.

In order to sustain the plants used in this type of treatment system, there must be a steady, reliable flow of nutrients in the wastewater. As is the case with many public parks, the flow of visitors to Ohiopyle peaks on summer weekends when crowds show up to raft, kayak, hike, bike and just stroll around the grounds and for the many festivals held each year, which bring in tens of thousands of people.

During the workweek and the winter, the significant drop in visitor traffic would have posed a problem for the biological treatment system because of this reduction in wastewater flow. However, to address this issue, the designers capitalized on the location of the center near the borough of Ohiopyle.

The borough has a conventional lagoon-based municipal wastewater treatment plant with a sewer main running directly through the project site that could be tapped into when there was excess sewage flow from the visitor’s center.

Having the public system available to handle overflow events eliminated the need to install large equalization tanks which would have required significant excavations in hard rock and added major costs to the overall project. This solution has resulted in “innovation points” for the facility’s LEED application.

Stormwater Management and Cooling, Thanks to a Green Roof The location of the visitor’s center near the Youghiogheny River means that it is particularly important to manage stormwater flow from the building’s roof. The solution was to install a green roof, which causes some of the precipitation on the roof to be absorbed by the soil, rather than immediately running off the roof. The soil also helps to clean the water so that it can be collected in a storage system and then used to irrigate the green roof during dry weather. By using captured stormwater for this irrigation, there is no need to use potable water, which would be counter to the project’s overall sustainability efforts.

Part of the building is below grade and is covered with soil and vegetation to form a natural-looking green roof. Many visitors do not even realize that they are walking on the structure’s roof and not on a natural hillside. This extensive part of the green roof has deeper soils, which allow for the plant

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ing of ornamental grasses and woody plant material. The remainder of the roof is covered with a tray-based vegetated-cover system, also known as an “intensive” green roof. The vegetation in the trays is limited to groundcovers and, in most cases, is a sedum-based plant palette.

The green roof also has a LEEDoriented benefit in that it reduces the load on the HVAC system, because the sun’s rays do not strike the roof directly. Energy use is also reduced by having part of the building below grade, so it can benefit from the insulating capacity of the earth.

Geothermal HVAC Systems Moves from Exotic to Practical To further boost the “sustainability quotient” of the building, the design-

ers incorporated a geothermal HVAC system to provide heating and cooling for the building. This energy source has, over the years, moved from being seen as an exotic, leading-edge technology to one that is proven and practical. Depending on the season, the visitor’s center uses vertical geothermal wells to help pre-warm or pre-cool the air in the building.

Since there are no unusual geothermal sources such as geysers or hot springs at this site, the system works on the principle that the temperature several hundred feet below ground is a reasonably constant 52 – 55 degrees Fahrenheit. It starts with drilling multiple vertical boreholes, running piping that conveys a circulating glycol-based liquid from the building down into the ground and then using

the surrounding geology as a large underground heat exchanger.

It is important to note that geoenergy is not practical in all locations. But, unlike in an urban setting, most parks have a slight space advantage so they are not constrained by the fact that the wells must be drilled over a wide area.

Working “Green” into the Solution It is clear from this project that building “green” requires an understanding of a wide range of technological possibilities. It also requires careful analysis of the site, and factoring in the strengths and limitations it offers, to develop a workable solution.

Michael W. Takacs, RLA, ASLA, is Principal in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, office of Civil and Environmental Consultants Inc. (mwtakacs@cecinc.com).

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SCAN TO SAVE

This rendering shows potential improvements along a section of shoreline in the South Bronx.

Creating a Healthier South Bronx

By Sonia Myrick

S

outh Bronx: for some, the name alone may conjure up images of a gritty, concrete- and asphalt-encased urban landscape, riddled with dilapidated housing and abandoned, rusting industrial buildings and a sense that it’s a dangerous place to be passed through en route to somewhere else. Two of New York’s poorest neighborhoods — Mott Haven and Port Morris — can be found here, nestled between train tracks, major expressways and the East River.

Gantries, which once transferred goods from East River shipping vessels onto railroad cars, now rise like rusted-out sentries along the waterfront that once was home to a thriving commercial and residential district of stone and iron works, and furniture and piano factories. Prior to World War I, the South Bronx was known as “The Piano Capital of the United States;” more recently, it’s credited with being the birthplace of the music and culture known as Hip Hop. Recently, South Bronx made its way into the national spotlight, and not in a good way. There’s been an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease, an airborne infection that has killed 12 people and infected at least 113 since early July 2015. City health officials, along with investigators with the New York State Health Department and the Centers

50 Parks & Recreation

for Disease Control and Prevention, are working to determine the source of the outbreak. In the meantime, city officials have called for every building with a cooling tower to be inspected and disinfected.

Roughly 45 percent of the more than 53,000 residents who call South Bronx home live below the poverty

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level, a condition that manifests itself in a number of health challenges. In a recent op-ed piece in Crain’s New York Business, Deborah Marton, executive director of the New York Restoration Project (NYRP), a nonprofit whose goal is to provide quality public space within walking distance of all New York City homes, states: “South Bronx residents suffer from some of the poorest health outcomes in the U.S. Asthma rates are 50 percent higher than the city’s average. Seven out of 10 residents are overweight or obese. It’s a leader in diabetes-related deaths.”

There is an abundance of research demonstrating that your surroundings impact your health. The fact that living near parks and having access to green, open spaces can enhance the quality of one’s life is so intuitive that, often, we may not see the need for studies

showing cause and effect. But, according to Marton, such research could be incredibly helpful. To that end, NYRP recently unveiled The Haven Project, designed to monitor, measure and analyze how, over the course of several years, the redesign of the Mott Haven and Port Morris neighborhoods will impact residents’ health.

The Haven Project In her Crain’s New York Business op-ed, Marton describes the project as follows: “In the poorest congressional district in the country, we’ve launched The Haven Project, a pioneering plan for comprehensive community development that will turn desolate, trashfilled lots and pathways into a network of vibrant green spaces, complete with tree-lined streets, public art, bike

lanes and a completely reimagined waterfront — all with the goal of creating and supporting a better, healthier South Bronx.” The project is a highly collaborative effort that includes input from more than 100 Mott Haven and Port Morris residents, 16 local businesses, 31 community-based organizations, 14 city and state agencies, including the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation and the NY State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, and the offices of six elected officials. The master plan proposes the development of a new waterfront park; improved access and wayfinding for pedestrians and waterfront users; development of green infrastructure and plantings; increased community engagement; and other initiatives.

“The open spaces,” Marton ex-

plains, “are being planned specifically to achieve health gains, which will be measured by partners from Montefiore Medical Center, Columbia University and others…Never before has a multiyear capital project of this scale included research and monitoring to demonstrate the connection between open space and quality of life.” Rupal Sanghvi, founder of HealthxDesign, says, “We’ll be looking at medical records, diabetes rates, community health surveys and multiple data sources over at least the next five to seven years.”

Among those extolling the value of this project are NYC Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Mitchell Silver, who says, “NYRP’s advocacy for an open space network is important for creating safe pedestrian and bicycle access to the Con-

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nector and improving neighborhood walkability in Port Morris and Mott Haven. NYC Parks looks forward to continuing its efforts with NYRP, NYCDOT, RIPA [Randall’s Island Park Alliance], and the community to improve open space access for enhanced neighborhood health.”

Why the South Bronx?

Marton credits the July 1995 heat wave in Chicago that killed 750 people as being part of the inspiration for The Haven Project. In his book titled, “Heat Wave: A Social Autopsy of Disaster in Chicago,” public sociologist and professor Eric Klinenberg looked at two adjacent, almost identical low-income Chicago neighborhoods following this horrific event. What he found was that the death rate in one neighborhood,

Englewood, was almost 10 times higher than the other, Auburn Gresham. In determining the reason for this occurrence, it appears that in Auburn, a tightknit community with walkable streets and intact housing and parks, neighbors checked on each other; whereas, in Englewood, which lacked these elements, people did not check on each other. The lesson Marton finds in this study is that neighborhoods matter and that’s what NYRP is out to prove in the South Bronx.

In Mott Haven and Port Morris exists a unique combination of challenges — limited, under-resourced parks and open spaces, lack of waterfront access, monumental highway and industrial infrastructure, a vulnerable local population and poor environmental health outcomes — and

opportunities — a strong coalition of community-based organizations, activists and concerned citizens, a vibrant cultural history, ongoing investment in capital projects and programs, coastal resilience and a strong hospital network — that enable a measurable approach to the cause and effect research Marton says would be helpful.

So, how will NYRP and its partners gauge success? Marton says, “When we prove the Bronx is truly back, we’ll have the health, safety and social metrics to show it and a paradigm for achieving similar results in other underserved communities.”

For more information and to read the full Haven Project master plan, visit www.nyrp.org/havenproject.

Sonia Myrick is the Managing Editor of Parks & Recreation magazine (smyrick@nrpa.org).

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SOCIAL EQUITY of exercise five days a week, compared to 38 percent of their male counterparts. There are also racial and ethnic disparities — a higher proportion of black (22.6 percent) and Hispanic/Latino (22.4 percent) Chicago high school students are overweight, compared with 11.8 percent of white students.”

Lammel-Harmon and her colleagues realized there was something that could be done immediately to close the wellness gap between teen residents served by Carver Park and their healthier counterparts. This summer, a variety of new programs have been implemented to give these teens powerful tools to take control of their health and future success. They’re receiving the skills — and the philosophical agency — to make proactive lifestyle changes that will vastly improve the quality of their lives for the long-term.

Carver Park offers dance classes among its teen-focused activities, giving participants of all interests a wide variety of programming choices.

Equity in Agency Targeted teen programming at Carver Park teaches healthy skills and behaviors to last a lifetime

By Samantha Bartram

T

he communities surrounding Chicago’s Carver Park are experiencing a health crisis. Residents of the Altgeld Gardens, Riverdale, Golden Gates and Concordia neighborhoods live in what Chicago Park District (CPD) Wellness Director Colleen Lammel-Harmon calls a “wellness dessert.” “Consisting primarily of government and low-income housing, families here have limited public transportation options, just one centrally located park — Carver Park — and one grocery store,” she says. “The next closest park is over a mile away. In addition, these communities have historically had challenges working together, leaving a disparity in resources and diminished outcomes.”

Meanwhile, across Chicago, health statistics for young people — girls and boys, but particularly those of color — are alarming. “Data from the 2009 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Youth Risk Behavior Survey shows that the prevalence of overweight high school students in

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Chicago is significantly higher than the rest of the nation — 21 percent versus 16 percent,” Lammel-Harmon adds.

“Compared with figures of all U.S. high school students, a higher percentage of those in Chicago do not eat green salad, fruit and other vegetables…only 27 percent of teen girls get at least an hour

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Growing and Cooking Fresh Food Residents of low-income neighborhoods rely on food that is inexpensive and readily available. Without transportation, families must make do with offerings at the corner market or discount grocery chain, which often are higher in fat and preservatives, lower in healthy nutrients and do not include fresh fruit and vegetables.

But, initiatives like the Altgeld Gardens Community Farm, established 2010 through an alliance between CPD and Growing Power Inc., create spaces for teens and whole families to grow their own fresh produce. For six weeks during the summer, teens take the fruits and veggies they grow at Atgeld Gardens to Carver Park, where they learn vital cooking skills from “Chef Fresh” and “Chef Barb.” Complementary classes like “Fun with Food” teach young girls creative ways to cook easy, healthy meals through hands-on instruction.

Exercise and Healthy Activity Carver Park teens can choose from a variety of programs designed to get them active and interested in fitness. Creative approaches — like offering dance classes, kickboxing, yoga and Pilates — ensure teens of both sexes and with widely differing interests have appealing choices. There’s also sports conditioning sessions that focus on improving cardiovascular health, muscle strength and endurance.

All these classes are tailored specifically for teens and all, including the above-mentioned gardening and cooking programs, are offered free of charge.

Hopefully by the time the 125 teens already served by Carver Park’s programming begin their own families, hundreds more will have learned and applied the same skills and information, effectively transforming the health landscape of their community. Robust, targeted and creative park and recreation programming may not solve all of society’s ills, but it can help to put all of us on equal footing when it comes to health and quality of life.

Samantha Bartram is the Executive Editor of Parks & Recreation magazine (sbartram@nrpa.org).

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Using to Define Our Parks How creative art installations can be used to add character to parks and create connections with the wider community

By Paula Jacoby-Garrett

O

ver the past 50 years, art increasingly has been used in public parks and recreation centers in a variety of ways to create an interest and connection to the place. According to The Trust for Public Land, “Research shows that parks promote public health and revitalize local economies…they connect people to the great outdoors and to each other.” Individualizing parks through the use of public art can create a site that is meaningful, relevant and personal to the user as well as connect the site to the broader community.

Jack Becker, author of In “Public Art: An Essential Component of Creating Communities,” says public art can “engage civic dialogue and community, attract attention and economic benefit, connect artists with communities, and enhance public ap-

58 Parks & Recreation

preciation of art.” This type of connection cultivates a relationship to the place that evokes not only a personal association, but can also lead to site stewardship. “In essence, to connect with a place entails forming an emotional or imaginative attach-

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ment to the place. Such an attachment can be cultivated through art, since the artist has already formed a connection, and his/her art becomes a bridge for others,” explains Cheryll Glotfelty, co-editor of “The Bioregional Imagination: Literature, Ecology, and Place.”

To incorporate public art, a variety of factors, such as artwork medium, cost, maintenance, community support and relevancy, must be considered. Public art can include large, site-defining installations, temporary art works and nontraditional loca-

Kimberly Reinhart

Anish Kapoor’s Cloud Gate, referred to as the “Giant Bean” by Chicagoans, has become part of the city’s distinctive iconography.

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A R T I N PA R K S

tions and subjects, as well as multisensory projects. Successful public art projects in parks and recreation centers are as diverse as the parks themselves.

Kimberly Reinhart

Go Big Nothing makes a statement and provides more site recognition than a large public art piece created by a renowned artist. These types of installations typically are high-dollar endeavors that can serve not only the typical park visitor, but also can become a tourist destination as well as tell a broader story about the area.

An example of an installation that provides site recognition can be found in Chicago’s Millennium Park, which houses the Frank Gehry BP Bridge. Gehry is known for his iconic designs and structures around the world, and this piece blends function

with beauty. Millennium Park is also home to Anish Kapoor’s Cloud Gate structure, also known as the “Giant Bean” by locals. It is now not only the icon for the park, but also signifies Chicago and is a common tourist attraction.

Florida’s Broward County installation of Alice Aycock’s Whirls and Swirls and a Vortex on Water pays homage to the area’s link to water through a large-scale dynamic metal sculpture that flows upward from the water’s surface. Culture Now, a coalition of professional design organizations, describes this piece as depicting the “dynamic and tumultuous weather patterns in Southern Florida and the gravitational forces present on the earth and throughout the solar system, illustrating the expanding universe and underwater marine life.”

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Tell a Story Each location is unique and has a story to tell. Using site-specific artwork will enhance the site as a whole and provide for a deeper connection to the community at large. According to Becker, “Simply placing a sculpture on a street corner is not the same as designing a sculpture specifically for that site by considering its audience, environmental conditions, the history of the site, etc.” A challenge for site managers is to maintain open spaces as well as keep facilities up to date and interesting to the public.

For artist Robin Brailsford, it’s all about the story behind the work, and she starts each project with extensive research. “I like to say that every project is like another master’s degree. I want my work to be true all the way through,” to be, “real, deep, functional, fun and timeless.” For Reunion Trails Park in

Famed architect Frank Gehry designed the BP Bridge, seen here, which connects two iconic Chicago parks: Maggie Daley and Millenium.

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Tim Bevington’s Pipe Dream, located in Symphony Park in Las Vegas, uses colorful metal bars to physically represent the notes of Aaron Copland’s symphony, “Fanfare for the Common Man, 1942.”

looks over the Puget Sound. Plensa in a New York Times article spoke about the meaning behind Echo: “Many times we talk and talk,” he said, “but we are not sure if we are talking with our own words or repeating just messages that are in the air. My intention is to offer something so beautiful that people have an immediate reaction, so that they think, ‘What’s happening?’ And then maybe they can listen a little bit to themselves.”

Look up Looking for a new, inventive place for art? Look up! The space above is typically unused and can provide an unusual, yet appealing place for artwork. The awe-inspiring As If It Were Already Here sculpture by Janet Echelman is located 350 feet above the

Paula Jacoby-Garrett

Henderson, Nevada, Brailsford, with her partner Wick Alexander, wanted to relate the park to the Mojave Desert where it is located. Their Escher’s Lizards mosaic depicts larger-than-life, interlocking lizards that are based on native reptiles of the area.

Wick Alexander’s work can also be seen in the recent remodel of Las Vegas’ Garside Pool, which LGA Architects states includes, “embedded fossils highlighted in the concrete, telling the geological history of Nevada’s past. Nevada’s geology is further emphasized by embedded fossils revealed throughout the foundation and retaining wall of the locker rooms.” The highlight of the site is Alexander’s Ichthyosaur, a near life-sized mosaic skeleton embedded in the concrete at the pool’s edge, almost as if the fossilized bones were just discovered and ready to be excavated.

At The Smith Center’s Symphony Park in Las Vegas, Nevada, Tim Bavington’s Pipe Dream tells the story of music by his visual interpretation of a musical composition using 128 steel pipes to create an arched wall.

The center’s description of the installation states: “Each pipe represents a single note in Aaron Copland’s composition, ‘Fanfare for the Common Man, 1942’…The last pole,” which is unpainted, “represents a musical rest at the end of the composition.”

The artwork serves as both a defining piece for the site as well as a backdrop for the outdoor stage.

Public art can tell a story and spark conversation. For example, the story of Echo by Jaume Plensa in the Olympic Sculpture Park in Seattle, Washington, is rooted in Greek mythology. Echo was a mountain nymph who was punished by the goddess Hera and deprived of speech except to repeat the words of others.

At the park, the 45-foot sculpture with eyes closed in deep meditation

city of Boston. It’s a temporary art piece and will be exhibited from May through October 2015. Comprised of more than 100 miles of twine, the piece spans 600 feet, and includes more than half-a-million knots to create a colorful, fluid, moving sculpture that invites the eye skyward.

Reven Marie Swanson’s Under the Swimming Pool adds visual interest to the Beck Recreation Center in Aurora, Colorado. This aerial, 44-footlong, glass and steel art piece extends from the entrance vestibule to the lobby of the center. Swanson says this bright, lively piece depicts swimming figures “swaying and dancing in a whimsical wave of colored light and shadows.” It adds visual interest to the center as well as depicts the message of well-being and balance

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Multisensory Using art that goes beyond the visual to our other senses stretches the visitor’s imagination and can bring nontraditional visitors to parks. Multisensory art can include sound, touch, smell or taste, either alone or in conjunction with a visual aspect. With approximately 20 percent of the population having some level of disability and with those numbers expected to rise, designing artwork that is multisensory is an approach to include this underrepresented segment of the population.

North Carolina artist Betti Pettinati Longinotti worked with volunteers, many who were visually impaired and blind, to create a mosaic wall

titled Blind Power, Tactile Wall that tells a visual as well as tactile story.

Located at Tracy’s Little Red School House, part of the Winston Salem Industries for the Blind, this mosaic wall incorporated ceramic, glass and found objects to tell a child-centered

Whimsical, out of place art work, such as Susan Robb’s Parking Squid, below, and Kristen Ramirez’s Ebb and Flow, right, are guaranteed to catch the visitor’s eye and elicit conversation.

Ken Lambert, The Seattle Times

on which the center focuses.

story. Longinotti worked with volunteers to depict features of the school, including the resident miniature horse and the children themselves.

Auditory artwork is uncommon in art settings but also offers a unique way to connect with the park visitor.

Soundworm, the first student-created public art installation on the campus of Rice University, incorporates a visual design as well as a sound component. The aim of the project was “to engage Rice University’s campus as a whole through the medium of sound.

Microphones are placed in different locations across campus and the various sounds collected at the five sites are transmitted to five respective speakers, all of which are embedded within the Soundworm — a bright yellow sculpture constructed of steel pipe and adjacent to the campus library.” The microphones are mobile and can be placed anywhere across the college campus. The sounds “create a symphony of college life” in association with the visual art piece.

Jennifer Hochstedler

Be Whimsical Catching the visitor’s eye with a whimsical, out-of-place, piece of art functions well to create a lasting impression and a buzz. For example, Seattle’s Parking Squid by artist Susan Robb looks less like a bike rack and more like a sea creature that has just crawled out of Puget Sound and is guaranteed to provoke notice and conversation.

Some areas are a challenge to make interesting and inviting, but a bit of creativity and imagination can make these places new again. Seattle’s Ebb and Flow public art piece by Kristen Ramirez uses shapes and symbols of local flora and fauna in bright colors to energize a once dreary, unattractive, concrete tunnel. This now vibrant portal along the Burke-Gilman Trail is a visual treat for walkers and bikers.

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Betti Pettinati Longinotti

Keep It Changing Using temporary public art works keeps a site continually new and interesting for visitors. Many large municipalities have established temporary art exhibit programs with regular solicitations and funding. These art works can range from established professional artists to student-led designs. Keeping the public informed about new and changing installations through promotions and the press is an effective way to drive interest and visitation.

New York City’s Art in the Parks program has an extensive temporary arts series that brings traditional and experimental arts to the public. Jeppe Hein’s Please Touch the Art runs from May 2015 to April 2016 in the Brooklyn Bridge Park and is the largest exhibition of the artist’s work in the United States. Composed of several distinct pieces, these art works are designed for visitor interaction and immersion. Appearing Rooms is a dynamic piece that uses jets of water to delineate spaces or rooms that are constantly in flux. Mirror Labyrinth NY, composed of vertical mirror-finished steel, arranged in fluid arcs across a green lawn, is a play on the Manhattan skyline. Visitors can move among the steel pieces that create a maze of reflected images from the installation

itself, the visitors and the city beyond.

Hein has also created a quirky set of modified “social” benches across the park that in the New York Observer are said to “peak, twist and bend along with the existing landscape.”

Sculptor Stacy Levy’s artwork is about showing natural patterns and change. In her Straw Garden, she used traditional baroque garden design with contemporary landscape restoration materials to create a changing art piece.

Located under the Space Needle in Seattle as a six-month temporary exhibit, the natural materials of her artwork slowly biodegraded, illustrating change and process in nature juxtaposed with the formal garden setting.

Nomadic Labyrinth by the artist Paz de la Calzada, “reflects [her] vision of creating art that is playful and in dialogue with urban space, and… [explores] the relationship between art and spirituality, daily life and ritual.” This large, portable labyrinth is constructed of carpet and is not only visually appealing but also serves “as a walkable path for the public to explore as an urban meditation.”

Pop-Up Parks The pop-up park or parklet movement is less than a decade old and is literally popping up all around the country.

Betti Pettinati Longinotti’s Blind Power, Tactile Wall was created with the help of visually impaired volunteers.

These small, short-lived green spaces are typically installed for one day.

They beautify spaces and can highlight particular locales to promote visitation and, often, bring economic benefit to the area. In 2005, an annual event called PARK(ing) Day was established to temporarily transform parking spaces into small-scale public parks. Each year this movement has been growing; in 2011, more than 975 parks were established in 162 cities in 35 countries.

No matter the size or budget of your park and recreation centers, there is an opportunity to include public arts into your sites. Be creative with space and look for opportunities to place art in unexpected areas. For those municipalities with limited funding, artwork doesn’t have to be expensive — look for opportunities to collaborate with local arts education programs at schools and universities. As we look forward to the next 50 years, individuality, innovation and personalization are important to forming a connection with park visitors and building a successful public art program.

Paula Jacoby-Garrett is a freelance writer based in Las Vegas, Nevada (paula.jacoby. garrett@gmail.com).

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HYP

Living Up to the The Certified Park and Recreation Professional Certification

By Michael A. Mulvaney

T

here is no denying the presence of professional certifications in today’s workplace. In fact, some scholars have suggested the number of certified professionals in the U.S. workplace to be well over 1 million and expanding at a rapid pace. The field of parks and recreation is no different as professional certifications, ranging from certifications that are broader in nature to those that are specialized in a particular area, have been present for years. Some of the more common specialized certifications in parks and recreation include personal training, youth sports coaching and/or officiating, pesticide application, turf and grounds management, Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) and Aquatics Facility Operator (AFO). Referred to as specialist certifications, these credentialing programs seek to expand a professional’s knowledge in a particular area or aspect of the job.

In contrast to specialist certifications, generalist certifications encompass a variety of tasks related to the park and recreation profession in general, and the job title in particular. Within the field of parks and recreation, the Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) is arguably the most recognizable generalist certification. While other generalist certifications for parks and recreation exist, the CPRP contin-

64 Parks & Recreation

ues to be one of the most sought after certifications. Emily Tipping in Recreation Management’s 2012 annual “State of the Managed Recreation Industry” article consistently identifies the CPRP as one of the most desired certifications by recreation professionals.

Despite their presence and growth, certifications often mean different things to different people. For example, consider the facility manager who

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is a firm believer in the “school of hard knocks” that includes on-the-job training and self-guided learning experiences in lieu of traditional education or certification(s) obtained through a formal credentialing process. Or, the recreation director who questions the worth of a panel of subject-matter experts (SMEs) involved in the content development and methodologies for certification examinations.

In contrast to these views, advocates of professional certifications would contend that they offer multiple benefits by enhancing recognition and lifelong learning among professionals in the field. In spite of these varied views, few professionals would suggest that certifications are entirely rubbish.

Rather, these varied views speak to the subjective nature of “value” as it is likely that each professional has his or her own views on the value of certifications as it is compared to other fac-

YPE

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C E R T I F I C AT I O N

tors (i.e., work experience, on-the-job training, dispositional behaviors, etc.).

These sentiments suggest the need for a more systematic investigation of the role of certifications in the park and recreation profession.

Along this line, the Journal of Park and Recreation Administration recently released a study, “Professional Certifications and Job Self-Efficacy of Public Park and Recreation Professionals,” (http://js.sagamorepub. com/jpra/issue/view/690) that examines the possible links between CPRP certification, several specialist certifications, and perceptions of job performance capabilities among public park and recreation professionals.

In completing the investigation, data was collected from 347 public park and recreation professionals and the

tion and specialist certifications. In particular, professionals with both the CPRP certification and at least one specialist certification possessed significantly higher perceptions of their job performance capabilities compared to professionals without any certification. However, no significant differences were found between professionals who only possessed the CPRP and those who had the CPRP and at least one specialist certification.

Taken collectively, these findings highlight the positive contributions of the CPRP certification in today’s workplace. In addition to validating the individual’s proficiency and commitment to the profession, the findings suggest CPRP professionals have the potential to be more productive in their work compared to their non-

CPRP professionals were found to posess...higher perceptions of their job perfomance capabilities. results yielded three major findings: Finding 1: There was a positive and significant link found between the CPRP credential and job performance capabilities. Specifically, CPRP professionals were found to possess significantly higher perceptions of their job performance capabilities compared to non-CPRP professionals and even those with at least one specialist certification.

Finding 2: Challenging one of the study’s hypotheses, a neutral effect was found with specialist certifications.

More specifically, professionals with specialist certifications did not have significantly higher perceptions of their job performance capabilities compared to professionals without a certification.

Finding 3: An interaction was found between the CPRP certifica66 Parks & Recreation

CPRP colleagues. It also suggests a complementary effect in acquiring and maintaining both a generalist certification, such as the CPRP, and a specialist certification.

So, what do the findings from this study mean for parks and recreation?

More specifically, what are its implications to the professional, the park and recreation agency, and the profession?

In response to these questions, let us consider the role of the CPRP certification and its impact on the professional, agency and profession.

CPRP Certification For The Professional The park and recreation field is rapidly evolving, and the challenge for the recreation professional is to stay ahead of these changes. The CPRP

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certification provides a formalized system for staying current with trends and issues in the field.

Invest in Something Valuable — You. Society has shifted from job security to employment security. Specifically, the tenure of a professional with one agency is decreasing as transfers from one agency to another are occurring at a higher frequency than in the past. As a result of this trend, the need for recognizable skills, knowledge and abilities has become increasingly important for the park and recreation professional as they navigate the employment field. The CPRP certification meets this need by providing evidence that a professional has a full complement of entry-level knowledge and what it takes to be a solid professional.

Career Kick-Starter. Securing that first, full-time job in any field can be a challenge. An effort to distinguish their application from the rest of the pool is a “must” for these new job seekers.

The CPRP designation can aid in that process. Having that acronym behind their name provides another credential, demonstrates a standards competency level, highlights the applicant’s commitment to the profession and adds a recognizable brand name to their résumé. While employers may or may not recognize the applicant’s name, the hiring agency will likely recognize the “CPRP brand” which can help distinguish the applicant.

Career Advancement. The Journal of Park and Recreation Administration study found CPRP-certified professionals possessed more advanced perceptions of job performance capabilities compared to their non-CPRP colleagues. These findings suggest that the knowledge and skills obtained through the certification process could lead to higher job performance. In turn, this higher performance could result in more promotional and/or leadership opportunities.

Help Me, Help You. For those CPRP professionals with longer tenure in the field, the credential can represent an element in the mentorship of early-career professionals.

In addition to the study’s findings mentioned above, anecdotal support for the CPRP certification is regularly shared by current CPRP-certified professionals. These professionals often share stories of the enhanced growth, recognition, networking opportunities and employment marketability provided by the CPRP and its ongoing professional development requirements. Sharing these experiences and CPRP certification advice in the mentorship of early-career professionals can help them make a successful transition to the field.

Image Is Everything. While the old ad slogan, “Image Is Everything” is not entirely accurate in this situation, how constituents view their recreation professional is important. Certifications, such as the CPRP, not only demonstrate a commitment to the field, but they also can provide a symbol of competence to those they serve.

Get Paid to Learn. Many agencies invest a level of resource support for their staff to attend professional development programs to maintain their certification. Premised on the view that the professional development experiences will aid staff in the development of new knowledge or skills, agencies regularly provide financial support for their employees’ professional development. Certification programs, such as the CPRP, require ongoing professional development and provide further justification (to the agency) of the need for and value of professional development opportunities for staff.

CPRP Certification for the Park and Recreation Agency The promotion of the CPRP certification should start at the top of the

agency. The recognition and encouragement of certification programs, such as the CPRP, by the agency sends a clear message to staff about the importance and value of these credentialing programs. A common practice in the promotion of certification programs involves management developing a formal statement acknowledging the importance of certifications and professional development among staff and how these programs can assist the agency in successfully achieving its mission.

Improved Agency Performance.

According to the study’s findings and previous certification research, it is likely that park and recreation agencies employing CPRP-certified professionals will demonstrate better performance. In turn, this individual-level performance will translate into a higher performing agency. In a related vein, agencies may wish to integrate CPRP certification requirements within the job description and employee recruitment and selection processes.

Promoting Growth Culture. Certifications demonstrate the commitment of park and recreation agencies to provide high-quality services and ongoing professional development for their staff. In fostering this culture of professional growth, resource investments by the agency are needed. Specifically, resource support to assist staff with their certification exams, allow for attendance at relevant workshops and training sessions and/or provide salary increases for employees as they obtain certifications is encouraged.

CPRP Certification for the Profession Increased Legitimacy. An important aspect of a profession is a recognized body of knowledge that guides best practices in the field. The CPRP meets this need by establishing a baseline necessary for certifying the knowledge

and skills of the profession. It creates a recognizable and legitimate standard that ensures the profession (and professional) are current with the literature and trends in the field.

Codified Body of Knowledge. The CPRP certification process also requires the codification of a body of knowledge. Through systematic analyses, the job domains and corresponding tasks are identified and coded based on their significance for the entry-level professional. This codification process serves as a framework for professional growth of practitioners and provides guidance for the development or modification of academic curricula.

Summary The CPRP certification has a deep history in the field and serves as a demonstration of a mastery of the body of knowledge required by the entry-level recreation professional. The recent study by Mulvaney, Beggs, Elkins and Hurd in the Journal of Park and Recreation Administration, provides further support for the CPRP’s impact in the workplace by identifying links to job performance capabilities of professionals.

In closing, exceptional leisure service delivery requires full participation from an exceptional staff. Park and recreation professionals must understand their constituents, their constituents’ interests, and how to best serve those interests. Whether it is a new employee or one with a long tenure, all employees are expected to have the knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully do their jobs. Obtaining the CPRP certification is one way to demonstrate that exceptionality to your agency, constituents, the profession and to yourself!

Michael. A. Mulvaney is an Associate Professor in the Department of Recreation Administration at Eastern Illinois University (mamulvaney@eiu.ed).

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pictured here, is The 680-acre Floyd Lamb Park, northwest Las of ert des a welcome oasis in the etation, lakes veg lush life, wild its Vegas. With ng Mountain and views of the Sheep and Spri unique to park ral Ranges, Floyd Lamb is a natu erience. exp an urb as Veg the typical Las

Las Vegas: The Entertainment Capital of the World

By Rod Dickens

T

he Vegas Strip and the old downtown offer visitors a wide variety of excitement in a city known for its bright lights, gaming, all-you-caneat buffets and entertainment. But there’s more to Las Vegas than meets a casual observer’s eye.

Peel back the table games and slot machines, the Elvis impersonators, the neon lights and top-name entertainers, and you’ll see another side to this desert oasis — because visitors come here not just to play, but to work, as well. Of the 40 million-plus visitors annually, more than 5 mil68 Parks & Recreation

lion are conventioneers. In fact, more than 22,000 conventions are held here annually and attendees do their fair share to take up temporary lodging in any of the city’s 150,000-plus rooms.

When not in meetings, education sessions or walking through the exhibit hall during the 2015 NRPA

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Annual Conference, some attendees certainly will endeavor to enjoy the traditional Vegas experience. But, for those looking for something a little different, there’s plenty to see and do.

The “Other” Strip Experience Construction of the Flamingo Hotel in 1946 ushered in what would become modern day Vegas and the beginnings of Las Vegas Boulevard South, aka, the Strip. In the two decades that followed, famous hotel/casinos such as

u

golfing at any of 40 area golf courses or burning another couple miles of shoe leather and heading down to Freemont Street. Along the way, history buffs may want to pop in at the hit TV show’s “Pawn Stars” shop at 713 South Las Vegas Avenue before making their way to the Freemont Street light show experience.

You can avoid blisters by taking the tram from Mandalay Bay to Excalibur and crossing over the Strip to the MGM where you can pick up the Monorail. The Monorail travels from MGM Grand to Sahara Ave., seven days a week. Visit www.lvmonorail.com for stops and ticket prices.

Las Vegas News Burea

the Sands, Sahara, New Frontier and the Riveria took their place along the 4.2 miles of asphalt.

The Flamingo is the sole survivor of the Strip’s early heyday. The others fell prey to the construction of mega hotels and resorts in the 1990s, replaced by such names as the Luxor, Venetian, Mirage, Bellagio and Mandalay Bay to name but a few.

A hike down the Strip from the Tropicana to Circus Circus is both good exercise and good sightseeing.

A stop at The Bellagio Conservatory and its airy atrium, for example, offers a nice retreat for flower lovers.

Time the walk during evening hours and the resort’s water show provides an extra bonus. The Mirage has its own evening extravaganza, as well, a Volcano that erupts every hour on the hour after dusk.

The Palazzo’s two-story waterfall atrium and seasonal flower display are another must-see for nature lovers.

But if wildlife is your passion instead, swing by the Flamingo’s Wildlife habitat. Catch a glimpse of the birds that inspired the hotel’s famous sign and watch the playful antics of their other fine-feathered friends.

Or, maybe a midday ride on the High Roller is more your speed. Touted as the world’s largest observation wheel, this 550-foot-tall attraction offers an unparalleled view of the Strip and downtown, day or night. One complete rotation takes approximately 30 minutes and riders travel in style in any of 28 air-conditioned pods.

If you’re happier a little closer to terra firma, a float down the Venetian streetscapes in a gondola is something you may not want to pass up. Both indoor and outdoor rides are available and provide a scenic passage under balconies, beneath bridges and beside cafes.

Feeling extra ambitious? Consider

How Do You Compare?

Of the 41,126,512 people who visited Las Vegas in 2014, more than 5 million were convention delegates. Here’s a snapshot of what Las Vegas visitors look like as compiled by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority Research Department:

Average stay

Percentage of visitors under age 21

Average visitor age

3.2 10 45.2 nights

Percentage of visitors who are first timers

19

years old

Percentage of visitors who travel from southern California

27

Percentage of international visitors

19

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Las Vegas News Bureau

Additional City Sightseeing Known for its gaming, fine dining, excitement and entertainment, the Strip can also be fun for those visitors looking to keep things low-key.

Below, find a handful of suggestions for a laid-back Las Vegas afternoon.

The Aquarium at the Silverton Hotel: Fish lovers will enjoy this stop.

See 5,000 exotic fish, numbering 160 species from around the world, in a 100,000 gallon-plus aquarium. The hotel is 5 miles from the Strip at the intersection of Blue Diamond Road and Industrial Road.

Start clowning around at Circus Circus: Enthusiasts of the James Bond film “Diamonds Are Forever” will recognize this venue, said to be the world’s largest permanent circus.

Shows feature trapeze acts, jugglers, skaters and, of course, clowns. Visit www.circuscircus.com for a schedule of show times and acts.

Ethel M Chocolate Factory and Botanical Garden: Satisfy your sweet tooth and curiosity at the same time by visiting the only Ethel M Chocolate factory in the world. Tour the factory, enjoy a free sample and then walk off the extra calories next door at the 3-acre Botanical Cactus Garden. The factory and garden are

located in Henderson, a 15-minute drive from the Strip. Store hours are from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Hersey’s Chocolate World: Still have a sweet tooth? Then return to the Strip and stop in at Hersey’s Chocolate World at New York, New York.

This 14,000-square foot, two-story attraction features more than 800 candy and chocolate delights, along with an

For gun and bow enthusiasts, the Clark County Shooting Complex, seen here, has you covered. There are 24 combination trap and skeet fields, two 15-station sporting clay courses, a five-stand shooting field, 50-yard, 100-yard and 200-yard lighted rifle-pistol ranges, a known-distance archery range and facilities for education and training, as well as a pro shop and restaurant.

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800-pound milk chocolate Statue of Liberty. The store opens at 9 a.m.

M&M World: There’s more than candy at this stop next to the MGM Grand. In fact, there are four floors of brightly colored candy, memorabilia and other gifts. On the third floor, visitors can even personalize candy with their own message.

Fall of Atlantis: Located at the Forum Shop in Caesars, Fall of Atlantis wows observers with fire, water and 9-foot tall talking statues. A nearby 50,000-gallon aquarium is home to 300 saltwater fish.

Open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Marjorie Barrick Museum: A collection of contemporary art and displays of pre-Columbian pieces welcome visitors to this museum located on the University of Las Vegas campus. Open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays, noon to 5 p.m.

Madame Tussauds: See more than 100 wax life-like celebrities at this

museum located at the Venetian.

Opens at 10 a.m. year-round.

Mob Museum: Officially called the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, this museum tells the story of the mob’s rise and fall, along with law enforcement’s response. The museum is located downtown at 300 Stewart Ave., and is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Thrill Rides for Kids of all Ages Need a shot of adrenaline to keep you going? Here’s a handful of attractions that are sure to shake up your day and get your heart pumping.

Adventuredome: Located in Circus Circus, this theme park is enclosed beneath a 5.5–acre glass dome. Enjoy rides that will both the young and young at

heart. One in particular, the Canyon Blaster, crams four inversions into a single ride. Another, Chaos, whirls passengers in three ranges of motion.

Big Apple Coaster: Looking some heart-stopping action away from the casino tables? Visit New York, New York and hop on the Big Apple Coaster. Said to be the world’s first coaster with a 180-degree “heartline” twist.

Big Shot: Experience the yin and the yang of blasting straight up 160 feet and then free falling back to earth. That’s the Big Shot experience at the Stratosphere. If you want something a little more sedate, then Insanity, also at the Stratosphere, will deliver by dangling you over the edge 900 feet above the Strip.

Desperado: How far will you travel

to experience one of the tallest roller coasters in the country? If 40 miles is within your range, then drive to Buffalo Bills in Primm, Nevada, where a 225foot drop at a 55 degree angle awaits your arrival.

Wet ‘N’ Wild: Two pools and 10 water slides at this water park will help everyone beat the heat. Located at 7055 S. Fort Apache Rd., in Las Vegas.

Whether you fill any spare moments during the 2015 NRPA Annual Conference with a stroll down the Strip or a stop at one of the intriguing attractions mentioned here, you’re certainly in for a dose of extra fun. We hope these activities add to your experience in Las Vegas and inspire you with great ideas!

Rod Dickens is a well-traveled freelance writer (dickens.rod138@gmail.com).

pools ter, seen here, is one of 16 The Hollywood Aquatic Cen indoor, e, lan Parks and includes a 10operated by Clark County aresqu 687,3 a l, acent teaching poo competitive pool and adj play ter wa ry, ent le sty l with a beachfoot outdoor activity poo ter slides. toys, a lazy river and two wa

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Team NEVADA Welcomes You to Las Vegas

By Rod Dickens

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as Vegas is known for doing things in a big way and the delivery of recreation and cultural services in this growing metropolitan area is no different. Five local public parks and recreation departments with staffs ranging in size from nine to 180 offer a wide array of programs and services to residents in the Las Vegas Valley and throughout Clark County’s 8,000-square-mile radius. With more than 280 parks, 57 recreation and cultural centers, before-and-after-school recreation enrichment programs at 200 local school sites, 35 aquatic facilities and hundreds of miles of trails, these entities work closely to align programs and identify service areas so as to offer a seamless experience to the public.

This year’s designated local host committee, dubbed Team NEVADA, is excited to showcase the people, places and programs that contribute to the high quality of life experienced by Southern Nevada’s more than 2 million residents.

Retired professionals, The Outside Las Vegas Foundation, the University of Nevada Las Vegas and the Nevada Recreation and Park Soci-

ety joined professionals from Clark County Parks and Recreation, Boulder City, Las Vegas, Henderson and North Las Vegas to form “Team NEVADA.” This robust alliance welcomes 2015 NRPA Annual Conference attendees and looks forward to providing guests with a glimpse of life and leisure beyond the neon!

r fun for on, includes 20 acres of outdoo Aventura Park, located in Henders reside in who ilies fam y lovers and the man sports enthusiasts, swimmers, dog nearby communities.

Notable Team NEVADA Facilities Darling Memorial Tennis Center — City of Las Vegas The Amanda and Stacy Darling Memorial Tennis Center, the largest of its kind in the state of Nevada, consists of 23 tennis courts, including one main court with stadium seating for approximately 2,800 spectators. It also includes a small pro shop, locker rooms and office space. The tennis center is part of the Charlie Kellogg and Joe Zaher Sports Complex, which is expected to be a huge draw for large tennis and soccer tournaments, and a wonderful addition to the surrounding area.

Aventura Park — City of Henderson The City of Henderson’s 20-acre Aventura Park features lighted fields, basketball, tennis and volleyball courts; a dog park; playground; and splash pad to meet the needs of one of Henderson’s newest master-planned communities.

Craig Ranch Regional Park — North Las Vegas Encompassing 170 acres, the City of North Las Vegas’ newest park, Craig Ranch Regional Park, opened to the public in 2013. Refurbished from its prior life as a golf course, the park offers a skate park, dog park, sport courts and fields, multiple playgrounds, picnic areas, open grass areas and a garden plaza.

Heritage Park Aquatic Center — City of Henderson This LEED Gold-certified facility offers two indoor pools, designed for both competitive and instructional uses. It meets national standards

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for diving, water polo, synchronized swimming and competitive use. The Aquatic Complex is situated within Heritage Park, which offers 160 acres of recreational fun, including a senior center, sport fields, amphitheater, dog park, picnic areas and walking trails.

Whitney Mesa BMX Track — City of Henderson Available for practices and racing events, the city of Henderson’s Whitney Mesa BMX Track offers three distinct courses for riders of all levels and interests. Courses include a wide-open, downhill track, a pump track for endless riding and a pump/ jump track that sports a wall ride for an added degree of difficulty.

Hemenway Park — Boulder City Not only do residents enjoy Boulder City’s 10-acre Hemenway Park, but bighorn sheep from the River Mountains are regular visitors as well. It is not uncommon to see more than 100 sheep come down from the mountains in the summer months for water, grazing and respite from the desert heat.

Nature Discovery Park — City of North Las Vegas Nature Discovery Park in Aliante has quickly become one of the most popular new facilities in North Las Vegas. The site features a large manmade lake and waterfall, walking paths, a multistory playground unit, and a dinosaur-themed nature discovery area. In addition, the park offers tennis, volleyball and bocce courts, soccer fields, horseshoe pits, several picnic sites and an amphitheater.

Nearby Parks for Hiking and Enjoying Nature After you’ve experienced Team NE

VADA’s excellent sites and facilities, rent a car, plug in the GPS and head out of town for some beautiful desert scenery.

You’ll want to make sure your smartphone is fully charged, as you’re sure to snap dozens of pictures while taking in all the gorgeous sites.

Valley of Fire: Located just 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas, this is the oldest and largest state park in Nevada. Areas of petrified wood and 3,000-year-old Indian rock carvings provide interesting and educational scenery for hikers and photographers alike. The park is open all year. Take Interstate 15 and exit 75.

Lake Mead: Just a short drive from the Strip, this man-made lake offers swimming and jet skiing for water enthusiasts and sunbathing for those who just want to get away and relax. A trip to the Lake Mead Recreation Area offers hiking trails, scenic views and picnicking, along with a vast array of flora and fauna adapted to survive in a desert environment.

Hoover Dam: While at Lake Mead, take time to visit the Hoover Dam where two tours are available daily — a one-hour, guided tour of the power plant and passageways within the dam, and a 30-minute guided tour of the power plant only. There’s also plenty of oppor-

Hemenway Pa rk boasts some interesting residents — na mely, the hund sheep that enjo reds of y the watering holes, tasty grazing and co ol breezes avai lable there.

tunity to learn about the dam’s history and take in some breathtaking views of the dam face.

Mount Charleston: Part of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, this is the highest mountain in Clark County and, with an elevation of 12,000-feet, it is one of the highest in the state. The peak and park are noted for an abundance of hiking trails, wildflowers and waterfalls. Mount Charleston is a 40-minute drive from the Strip.

Death Valley National Park: A two-hour drive from the Strip will put you at the front door of more than 3 million acres of wilderness and hundreds of miles of back country roads. Take plenty of water. The park’s average high in September is 106 F. Grand Canyon National Park: Feeling particularly expansive? Then rent a car and drive 280 miles to the South Rim or 270 miles to the North Rim of this natural wonder with awe-inspiring scenery. The entry fee to both rims is $25 per car.

Rod Dickens is a well-traveled freelance writer (dickens.rod138@gmail.com).

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2015 NRPA Annual Conference Special Events

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e know each year you come to the NRPA Annual Conference for fantastic networking opportunities, continuing education, unique site visits and the expansive exhibit hall that are the cornerstones of our biggest event. The passion and dedication that drives our members to attend is noteworthy, and it should not go without reward. That’s why NRPA Conference organizers, along with the Local Host and Program Committees, have arranged some extra-special events and attractions designed to help you get the most out of your time in Las Vegas. Here, we highlight a handful of notto-be-missed opportunities — for the most up-to-date scheduling and registration information, go to www.nrpa.org/Conference2015. There, you can also download our mobile app that keeps you current before and during the event!

Special Guest Speaker NRPA is pleased to announce that United States Surgeon General, Vice Admiral Vivek H. Murthy, will give a special address during the Opening General Session from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, September 15. Dr. Murthy’s highest priority as U.S. Surgeon General is building a stronger, healthier America, so attendees will want to be there to hear more about this goal and the nation’s public health.

NRPA 50th Anniversary Celebration We’ve been talking about it for months, so you know we’re going all-out for our 50th anniversary celebration, set for 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, September 16. You and thousands of your peers in parks and recreation are invited to enjoy a night of music, dancing, food and beverages as we reflect on the past 50 years of challenges and successes, and look forward to the years to come. Be sure to pack your dancing shoes and leave room for some delicious birthday cake!

Exhibit Hall Reception Last year, we held a hugely successful networking reception right in the exhibit hall, and you let us know how many great connections you made during that event. For 2015, we’re repeating the model from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tues74 Parks & Recreation

day, September 15. After a full day of attending education sessions and meeting your colleagues, you’ll be ready to spend some additional time talking about the best practices, programming initiatives and exciting new projects that fuel your passion for our field. It’s also a great opportunity to get a closer look at the more than 400 exhibitors showcasing their goods and services in the exhibit hall. There will be plenty of hors d’oeuvres, entertainment and prizes to keep you going all evening long.

What’s That, Girl? It’s Lassie!

Lassie, the original canine superhero and American icon of safety and trust, is making an appearance at the 2015 NRPA Annual Conference to help parks and recreation professionals learn how to better protect children during disasters. The visit marks Lassie’s latest endeavor as Save the Children’s ambassador for its “Get Ready.

Get Safe.” initiative, which helps communities prepare to keep children safe no matter what storm might come their way. Join Lassie for a photo, disaster supplies relay race and to learn about the Prep Rally, a turnkey emergency preparedness program for kids in kindergarten through fifth grade.

Come see Lassie perform the relay at 6:15 p.m. Tuesday in the Member Cel-

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Television icon Lassie will make an appearance during the Exhibit Hall Reception on the evening of Tuesday, September 15.

ebration area during the Exhibit Hall Reception detailed above.

Neon 5K Fun Run/Walk Here again, our Local Host Committee members have outdone themselves by organizing a spectacular fun run and walk from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Tuesday, September 15. Grab your sneakers and set out for a 5K run or 1-mile walk along the scenic trails of Sunset Park. As dusk falls, runners will be guided by bright neon glow sticks and the shimmering Las Vegas skyline.

Several fun extras, including music, refreshments and giveaways, make this a healthy event not to be missed!

A number of special events and celebrations are scheduled to take place at the 2015 Annual Conference — in addition to those mentioned above — so be sure to check the mobile app or visit www.nrpa.org/Conference2015 to learn more about events like Sunrise Yoga on Wednesday morning, the Gold Medal reception, Best of the Best Ceremony, Student Quiz Bowl and special guest appearances and prize giveaways throughout the Conference.

You Did It! You Rebuilt Joe Kneip Park!

Thank you to the companies and individuals who donated to the 2015 Parks Build Community project in North Las Vegas. Together, we have given the community surrounding Joe Kneip Park a special place of which we can all be proud.

Come celebrate with us on September 17, 2015. Buses depart the convention center at 9:45 a.m. (returning by noon). Look for signage in the exhibit hall.

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Leon Andrews Robert F. Ashcraft Claire V. Askelson II Kathleen A. Bagley Rebecca Benna Neelay Bhatt Peggy J. Boccard Julie Boland Marcia R. Bowen Elisa Bradshaw Matthew R. Brubaker Kathleen J. Carson Kelley Christensen Gina M. Mullins Cohen Jessica Culverhouse Martin Dease Richard J. Dolesh Christine Dropinski

Anne Eades Stephen Eckelberry Janivia Fernandez William D. Foelsch Mitchell Fox Pamela J. Gauper William Golson Colette Hall Jennifer Harnish Susan Hergenrader Lauren A. Hoffmann Sarah Horvath Roslyn Johnson Michael J. Kalvort Jack C. Kardys Molly Keesling Michael P. Kelly Brian D. Knapp

Linda J. Kotowski Marian Krass Michelle Lawrence Sven Leff Eileen Lohner Thomas P. McCarthy Amy K. McGrade Lauren J. Murphy James Nantell James O’Connor George W. Page Iris M. Pahlberg Mary A. Penton Marla Pineiro Wanda I. Ramos Terrie L. Randolph Dirk A. Richwine Anna L. Slocum

Miranda Smith Sonya B. Snyder Karen M. Stephens Molly Stevens Chris Stice Roxanne Sutton Charles J. Szoke Susan Trautman Cassandra Holtz Tucker Cynthia L. Vierra David Webb Mark Westermeier Michele B. White Rebecca L. Wickline Morgan Wynn Mark A. Young

A special thanks to the city of North Las Vegas for the countless hours supporting the transformation of Joe Kneip Park.

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Go, Team NEVADA

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his year’s designated local host committee, dubbed Team NEVADA, includes dedicated professionals from The Outside Las Vegas Foundation, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Nevada Recreation and Park Society, Clark County Parks and Recreation, and the cities of Boulder City, Las Vegas, Henderson and North Las Vegas. These 11 individuals worked tirelessly to coordinate the many site visits and special events taking place at the 2015 NRPA Annual Conference, and their contributions will no doubt facilitate an incredible experience in Las Vegas. Below, find Team NEVADA’s names and titles, and if you see them at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Convention Center, be sure to shake their hands and give a kind word of thanks!

Jane Pike Local Host Committee Co-Chair Director, Clark County Parks and Recreation Dirk Richwine Local Host Committee Co-Chair Program Committee Representative Retired Professional; Advisor, GreenPlay Research, Education and Development; Vice-Chair, CAPRA

Mindy Meyers Local Host Committee Chair, Off-Site Institutes Assistant Director, Clark County Parks and Recreation Steve Corry Local Host Committee Chair, Golf Tournament Recreation Coordinator, Boulder City Parks and Recreation

Danielle Norris Local Host Committee Chair, Volunteers Recreation Services Supervisor, City of Henderson Public Works, Parks and Recreation

Shelly Gulotta Program Committee Representative Recreation Program Supervisor, Clark County Parks and Recreation

Cliff Fields Local Host Committee Chair, Accessibility Recreation Manager, Clark County Parks and Recreation

Amy Carver Local Host Committee Chair, Hospitality Retired Professional; NRPA Board of Trustees 2002-05; APRS President 1997-1998 Kelly Schwarz Local Host Committee Chair, Fun Run Management Analyst, City of Las Vegas Parks and Recreation Amie Wojtech Local Host Committee Chair, Leisure Park Committee Park Project Manager, City of Henderson Public Works, Parks and Recreation Stacy Wald Local Host Committee Chair, Marketing Technical Support Specialist, City of Henderson Public Works, Parks and Recreation

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Inés M. Palacios, Ph.D. Director of Recreation: Programs, Partnerships and Professional Development PlayCore Chattanooga, Tennessee Mark Young Parks Forever Consulting Louisville, Kentucky

Las Vegas Program Leaders

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he Program Committee for the 2015 NRPA Annual Conference provides an invaluable level of support for NRPA staff as they work together to recruit and select the best and most relevant education sessions to serve their peers. Hailing from across the country and working in a variety of capacities within parks and recreation, this team spent the better part of the year determining what topics would be of most value to their colleagues, seeking out top speakers in the field, vetting hundreds of session applications and finalizing the program lineup. Below, find the members of this year’s Program Committee. We sincerely thank them for their efforts!

Patricia Armstrong 2015 Program Committee Chair Director of Parks, Recreation, Beaches and Cemeteries Yarmouth, Massachusetts

Missouri City, Texas

Rita Shue Conference Program Committee Incoming Chair San Ramon, California

Wanda Ramos Parks and Recreation Division Chief M-NCPPC Upper Marlboro, Maryland

Karla Henderson, CPRP Board Member and Treasurer GP-RED Estes Park, Colorado Dirk Richwine, CPRE, AFO Advisor GP-RED Parker, Colorado Atuya Cornwell, CPRP Recreation/Enterprise Facility Manager III Montgomery County Parks Wheaton, Maryland Sven Leff, CPRE Director Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation Cedar Rapids, Iowa Shane Mize Interim Assistant Director Missouri City Parks and Recreation

Sherril York Executive Director National Center on Accessibility Bloomington, Indiana

Nancy McShea, CPRE, CPSI Parks, Recreation and Aquatics Director Sudbury Parks and Recreation Sudbury, Massachusetts Detrick Stanford, CPRP Conference Program Committee Past Chair; Interim Chief Operating Officer Clayton County Board of Commissioners Jonesboro, Georgia Michael Klitzing, CPRE Chief Operating Officer Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation Carmel, Indiana Edward Matthews, CPRP, AFO Business Manager Suffolk Parks and Recreation Suffolk, Virginia

Sandra Gonzalez, CPRP (not pictured) Parks and Recreation Director Pico Rivera Parks and Recreation Pico Rivera, California Timia Thompson, M.S. (not pictured) Education Program Instructor Riverbanks Zoo and Garden Columbia, South Carolina Shelly Gulotta Program Supervisor Clark County Parks and Recreation Las Vegas, Nevada Kirsten Barnes Founder Five Star Recreation Andover, Kansas Lynda Cochran, Ph.D., CPRP Chair, Recreation and Leisure Studies SUNY at Brockport Brockport, New York David A. Miller, CPRP Division Chief Alexandria Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities Alexandria, Virginia Ann Marie Heiser, CPRP Recreation Services Manager City of Allen Parks and Recreation Allen, Texas Lucky D’Ascanio, CPRP Director Falmouth Community Program Falmouth, Maine John Prue Installation Program Director NAVSTA Great Lakes Great Lakes, Illinois

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NRPA Live Offers Virtual Conference Experience

By Eric Hamp

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he 2015 NRPA Annual Conference is the premier event to receive training and information on the latest trends in parks and recreation. If you are unable to join us at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada this September, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the fun! When you take advantage of NRPA Live, the virtual option for the NRPA Annual Conference, you’ll receive valuable training from the highest-rated sessions and presenters, right from your office or home.

We have selected 11 of the best education sessions to be streamed live during the three-day conference, held September 15 to 17. You also have the option to purchase a package that will allow you to access the session recordings for up to 12 months, so you can wait to watch and learn when it is most convenient for you. In addition to receiving excellent education from your home or office, you will also have the opportunity to earn 1.1 CEUs — more than half the CEUs required to renew your Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) credential!

The 2015 NRPA Live featured sessions are noted below. For full session details, please visit www. nrpa.org/NRPALive.

Tuesday, September 15 The Infrastructure Time Bomb 1-2:15 p.m.

Speakers: Jamie Sabbach and Sara Hensley Track: leadership and management

25th Anniversary of the ADA — Where Do We Stand?

2:45-4 p.m.

Speakers: Mark Trieglaff and Larry Labiak 78 Parks & Recreation

Marketing to Millennials 4:40-5:45 p.m.

Speaker: Justin Snasel Track: public relations/marketing Wednesday, September 16 Leading Optimistically 8-9:15 a.m.

Speaker: Jeff Price Track: leadership and management New Alternatives for Determining Parks and Recreation Needs and LOS 9:45-11 a.m.

Speaker: David Barth Track: planning, design and maintenance Shaping Public Perception — The Next Step in Social Media 12:30-1:45 p.m.

Speaker: Richard Becker Track: public relations/marketing What Do the Rearview Mirror and Crystal Ball Tell Us? 3:30-4:45 p.m.

Speakers: Neelay Bhatt and Leon Younger Track: leadership and management Thursday, September 17 Armed Forces Recreation 101

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8-9:15 a.m.

Speakers: Nancy Dussault, Robert Davis, Amy Cimino-Shockley and Joshua Gwinn Track: professional development The Shift is On — 2015 and Beyond 10:45 am.-noon Speaker: Ellen O’Sullivan Track: leadership and management Teambuilding — The Glue for Your Organization 1-2:15 p.m.

Speaker: Rich Mueller Track: employee/ volunteer management Americans’ Use and Perceptions of Local Park and Recreation Services — Findings from a National Study 2:45-4 p.m.

Speakers: Andrew Mowen, Ph.D., Alan Graefe, Ph.D., Austin Barrett and Geoffrey Godbey, Ph.D. Track: public relations/marketing We have selected a diverse set of sessions designed to help propel you and your agency to the next level. We will miss you in Las Vegas, but we hope you consider joining us virtually through NRPA Live!

Eric Hamp is NRPA’s Director of Member Relations and Professional Development (ehamp@nrpa.org).

THANK YOU SPONSORS We would like to thank the generous sponsors of the 2015 NRPA Annual Conference

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If you are interested in being a sponsor for the 2016 NRPA Annual Conference in St. Louis, Missouri, please contact Lindsay Shannon at lshannon@nrpa.org or 703.858.2178

NRPA Update Innovation in the Windy City

By Samantha Bartram

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n today’s political and economic climate, creative tactics for retaining funding and growing revenue are essential items in the park and recreation professional’s toolbox. Comprehensively measuring and leveraging the economic impact of our facilities and programming goes beyond tallying the amount of taxes and fees collected in a given year — we must also consider how parks and recreation impacts the surrounding economy.

That question was the focus of NRPA’s most recent Innovation Lab, held July 30–31 in Chicago, Illinois, and hosted by the Chicago Park District (CPD). More than two dozen high-level park and recreation professionals, planners and consultants discussed what economic impact means, how it can be highlighted to its best effect and why this aspect of our profession is so critical to understand.

Key to the discussion was CPD’s re-

cently produced study, “The Power of Parks,” which sought to quantify the impact on the value of a given property based on its proximity to a park. This data would in turn help to demonstrate how much economic benefit CPD contributes to the city.

Chicago’s Economic Impact Study The full results of CPD’s economic impact study are too dense to detail here, but Antonio Benecchi and

Matt Brubaker

Chicago Innovation Lab attendees explore the newly restored waterfront areas at Northerly Island and pause to take in the magnificent city skyline.

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Chad Coffman, of the Civic Consulting Alliance and Global Economics Group, respectively, who authored the report, offer some key takeaways: • The impact of CPD assets adds at least $900 million — or 1.5 percent — to residential properties within .15 miles of parks.

• That impact is positive — although at different levels — across all park categories and city regions.

• Mini-parks, or small neighborhood parks sometimes referred to as pocket parks, contribute the largest relative impact (2.8 percent) and total dollar impact ($335 million).

CPD’s diverse assets all contribute to economic activity from tourism, with its largest magnet properties (chiefly Soldier Field, Grant Park and museums) bringing in an estimated $1.2 to $1.4 billion in economic activity in 2013.

Recognizing Greatest Value The takeaways above are merely a slice of the rich data available in CPD’s study, but they explain the agency’s two-pronged strategy when it comes to “getting more for our parks,” as CPD Superintendent and CEO Mike Kelly puts it. CPD hosts dozens of large-scale, profitable events each year at its magnet parks, harbors and museums, while simultaneously partnering with Choose Chicago, the city’s tourism agency, on a new neighborhood tourism push that seeks to establish yet more profit-value-increasing mini-parks.

Some of the country’s most popular attractions, including the NFL Draft, Lollapalooza music festival and the James Beard Awards, draw hundreds of thousands of tourists — and their wallets — to Chicago each year. That gets them into the city and CPD’s revenue stream. It’s hoped that cultural tourism initiatives, like Choose Chicago’s incredible effort to highlight the city’s diverse smaller neighborhoods and the rich activities they offer (www.choosechicago. com/neighborhoods-and-communities), will entice those same tourists to stay, and spend, an extra day or two.

Taking Risks, Making Gains Kelly doesn’t mince words when discussing where his agency obtains the lion’s share of its revenue — “We don’t make our money from programming,” he says. “We make it from our special events.” CPD owns more than 600

Matt Brubaker

•

assets, including 11 world-class museums and the largest municipally owned harbor system in the United States.

Net revenue generated during special events at any of these amenities goes directly back to CPD, fueling maintenance, personnel, programming, community initiatives and related programs. These events take a great deal of time, energy and manpower to organize and execute, but, Kelly says, the payoff is more than worth any hassle.

“I’ll take that $3.8 million [in revenue] from Lollapalooza and be able to send 3,000 kids to camp for free. I’ll use it for free swimming lessons. It’s that simple.

“You have to know your market,” Kelly continues. “If there is a market demand for a space, that space should be paid for.” Special events generate almost $5 million a year for CPD, and that massive number is made possible through a standard process that sees the agency act more like a landlord leasing an apartment, rather than a co-facilitator of an event. The permitting process is in writing and un-

derstood by all parties, reducing the potential for misunderstanding or friction once a given event is underway.

Aside from carefully curated commercial relationships, CPD also enjoys good working alliances with related city departments, including the police, Department of Natural Resources and various friends and environmental groups. All these strategies work in concert to facilitate a swift-moving, responsive and profitable agency. Kelly concedes CPD, with its remarkable holdings that draw such high-profile events, doesn’t operate like most agencies. “There is a lot of political risk in innovations like these, but you have to take risks to achieve this kind of economic success,” Kelly says.

For details about the presentations, Chicago’s economic impact study and featured site amenities — including Soldier Field and The 606 — go to www.nrpa.org/innovation-labs.

Samantha Bartram is the Executive Editor of Parks & Recreation magazine (sbartram@ nrpa.org).

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NRPA Update

Structured Recreation Programming Can Help Reduce Juvenile Crime

By David Kurtz

F

or the past several decades, one of the most troubling issues facing cities and towns throughout the country is the prevalence of juvenile crime.

Affecting rural, urban and suburban communities, this problem is not unique to a specific geographic region. Criminal activity and delinquency among youth occurs (to varying degrees) across all ethnic and socioeconomic groups. As parents, civic leaders, and park and recreation professionals, when confronted with such a pervasive matter, we must seek ways to provide safe, structured programs that help youth fill unsupervised time with positive activities.

The primary catalyst in the rise of delinquency among minors is largely attributable to major shifts in workforce demographics. Since the 1960s, our country has experienced an almost 50 percent increase in the labor force participation rate of women. Today, almost 76 percent of women with school-age children are working, either in homes of two-parent earners or

Perceptions of Local Recreation and Parks: 2015 Study NRPA and Penn State University are putting the final touches on an update to a 1992 nationwide study to determine the current use, opinions and benefits of local parks and recreation. The study not only provides a picture of the current perceptions surrounding the field, but also examines how those perceptions have evolved over 23 years. Preliminary results from the study will be shared from 2:45 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, September 17, during the “Americans’ Use and Perceptions of Local Park and Recreation Services — Findings from a National Study” session at the 2015 NRPA Annual Conference. A final report will be ready in early 2016.

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homes of single-parent earners. While this change to the U.S. workforce has been positive, we have largely been unable to mitigate ancillary impacts to working families, including an increase in unsupervised time for youths. This becomes apparent when considering that the majority of juvenile crime occurs predominantly during the week — as opposed to on the weekend — in the hours between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. In the unsupervised time between when school ends and parents return from work, children are far more likely to commit crime, engage in risky behaviors or be victims of crime.

As recreation providers, what is our role in addressing the costs, both social and economic, of juvenile crime? Studies have shown that the most essential requisite for programs to reduce delinquency is that they provide structured, supervised activities to youth. One study on the impact of structure in after-school programs found that during unstructured time problem behaviors increased. Research has suggested that facilities, particularly recreation centers, with poorly, or no, structured activities, attract youth with social problems and that frequent participation at the centers is linked to high rates of juvenile delinquency. Therefore, recre-

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ation centers that do not provide access to programs focused on active participation can serve as conveners for youth to commit delinquent acts.

Studies on active, structured recreation focused on youth have shown strong relationships to positive outcomes. Youths who participate in extracurricular activities are more likely than non-participants to have higher self-esteem, greater academic achievement and lower incidences of delinquency.

Furthermore, at-risk youths have been found to especially benefit from guided recreation programming. Low-income, at-risk youth experience improved test scores in both reading and math after they begin participation in after-school programs. Data has also shown that students who reported spending no time in afterschool extracurricular activities were 57 percent more likely to drop out of high school, 49 percent more likely to use drugs and 27 percent more likely to have been arrested than students who spend as much as four hours in structured activities.

Park and recreation agencies have the ability to provide the programs that can address the root causes of juvenile crime. Because the types of leisure in which youth participate have profound impacts on social development, active and adult-supervised recreation programming available through park agencies are positioned perfectly to equip youth with the tools that develop positive social and cognitive skills, self-confidence and a sense of community.

David Kurtz is NRPA’s former Research Specialist.

Everything You Need to Succeed at the NRPA Career Center

T

he NRPA Career Center is where professionals in the park and recreation field turn when they want to land their next job or are looking to hire a qualified candidate to work on their team. With more than 16 million views since launching, our Career Center has resources you won’t find anywhere else.

If you are a job seeker who is looking to advance your career or make a change, look no further. New resources include the Career Learning Center, with tips on creating a powerful résumé, networking assistance and interview advice. There is a career development section with information about certification programs, conferences, webinars and much more to help you gain the skills you need to move up in your field. Read “Choosing a Career in Parks and Recreation” (www.nrpa. org/About-NRPA/Career-Center/ Resources/Choosing-a-Career-inParks-and-Recreation) to learn what the profession entails, examples of career paths, salary information and degree requirements. If you are trying to decide which parks and rec position would best suit you, check out the “Career Profiles” (www.nrpa.org/ About-NRPA/Career-Center/Resources/Career-Profiles) section.

To experience the NRPA Career Center in person, visit our booth No. 1371 at the 2015 Annual NRPA Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada. You don’t want to miss the opportunity to stop by and browse many new job opportunities and apply on the spot.

Make sure you bring a digital copy of your résumé. You will also have the chance to sign up to for a mock interview with NRPA’s own Human Resources Manager, Martin Dease.

If you’re an employer seeking a qualified new member of your team, you’ll find the perfect candidate by posting your job on the Career Center. Each posting is viewed by an average of almost 1,000 job seekers, and employers receive an average of 10 applications per posting. The Career Center provides access to almost 7,000 searchable résumés of qualified professionals. There are new resources for employers such as sample job descriptions, tips to conduct a successful interview, background screening information and our new Executive Recruitment Concierge.

NRPA Members receive a 33 percent discount on job-posting packages.

If you have questions about the NRPA Career Center, email Hayley MacDonell at hmacdonell@nrpa.org or call 703.858.2148.

— Hayley MacDonell, NRPA’s Membership Programs Manager

Test Your Park and Recreation Knowledge The following question is a sample Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) examination question.

A source of revenue created from private agencies and individuals that sell merchandise or provide services to parks and recreation agencies is called a(n): A. B. C. D.

Contractual receipt Sponsorship Gratuitous income Earned income

Calling all beginning to mid-level professionals! The Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) is the national standard for all park and recreation professionals who want to be at the forefront of their profession.

For more information on the CPRP certification program, please visit www.nrpa.org/cprp.

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NRPA Update

Member Spotlight: Patricia Armstrong

A

few years ago, we shone the spotlight on Patricia Armstrong who has been a dedicated NRPA volunteer and served on several NPRA committees since joining the association more than 20 years ago. She has been the director of parks, recreation, beaches and cemeteries for the town of Yarmouth since the mid-1980s and is currently the chair of the 2015 NRPA Annual Conference Program Committee. Here, we learn a bit more about her path to the field of parks and recreation and what was top of mind for the Program Committee as it put together the educational offerings for this year’s Conference.

Parks & Recreation magazine: How did you get your start in the industry?

Patricia Armstrong: I was a YMCA major at Springfield College in Springfield, Massachusetts, studying physical education and fitness, and my roommate was a parks and recreation specialist. I watched as she did all these really exciting and fun things as part of her studies. I started my career at the Y, but after a few years, I was disheartened. One day, that college roommate called and said, “There’s this great job in the next town,” which was Yarmouth. “I think you’d like it…come on down,” and I applied and I got my first job in the industry as the director of recreation. That was back in 1986. Over time, my responsibilities grew to include parks, beaches and cemeteries.

P&R: What do your day-to-day responsibilities entail?

Armstrong: I oversee the day-to-day operations for a staff of 15 and a seasonal staff of about 160. I have managers that oversee a lot of the details, but I’m there to support decisions and to oversee the larger projects and budgeting challenges.

P&R: What has been the most rewarding aspect of your job?

Armstrong: I would say securing 84 Parks & Recreation

funding both privately and through the tax base to make major infrastructure changes that impact the lives of many of the members of our community.

P&R: How did you get involved with the Program Committee?

Armstrong: When I went to my first Congress back in Phoenix, I knew a couple of the members of the Program Committee and I watched them be so excited not only about Congress, but also about what they were learning and what they were being exposed to. They talked about the evaluation of proposals for presentations and how they were exposed to the cutting-edge ideas and programs happening across the country, and I thought it would be a wonderful opportunity to be able to be involved with that and to bring some of that knowledge back home. I was lucky enough after a few years to be appointed by the then-Administrators Network to be a representative on the Program Committee, and it has been one of the best experiences I’ve ever had with NRPA. P&R: As the chair of the Program Committee, what’s the one thing you’d like Conference attendees to know was a top priority for the committee as it was putting togeth-

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er the educational offerings?

Armstrong: Obviously, the diversity of interest and the community sizes was taken into consideration. So many of the speakers are applicable not only to large, urban centers, but also to small, rural communities. Across the board, we were trying to bring technology and new trends into the program presentations so that people could use their phones instead of having to turn them off, could bring their tablets and take notes and start communicating and establishing relationships through those technologies with others at the Conference. We worked hard to not only do traditional sessions, but also to include these small, short sessions — Speed Sessions — that we feel really bring a new aspect of excitement the conference.

P&R: What’s your favorite park and recreation activity and why?

Armstrong: I enjoy most water activities, from swimming and kayaking, to shell fishing and boating. Cape Cod has some of the most beautiful beaches, both oceanfront and freshwater, anywhere in the United States.

My golden retriever Duke often joins me for a boat ride and a swim.

— Sonia Myrick, Managing Editor of Parks & Recreation magazine

Staff Spotlight: Kevin Roth, Ph.D.

N

RPA Vice President of Research, Kevin Roth, just joined the NRPA team at the end of June, bringing a fresh perspective to how we collect and disseminate data, as well as the role data can play in supporting our field. With a background in economics, including a Ph.D. in the discipline from George Washington University, this Maryland native doesn’t believe in “conducting research just for the sake of research.” Instead, Roth intends to use data to tell stories that illustrate how valuable parks and recreation is to communities across the world. We recently caught up with Roth to learn more about his perspective on data and the NRPA research team, as well as his passions outside the office.

Parks & Recreation magazine: Why do you feel research and data are so important to our field?

Kevin Roth: Research, data and knowledge can inform critical decision making, whether it is making the case for new capital expenditures, how to program a facility or how to tell the story of why parks and recreation is an essential part of the community.

In my short time here, I have seen the

Roth: Governments at the local, state and national level all face budgetary challenges that have only grown since the last recession. As a result, our members are challenged to do more with less. But, at the same time, we know from our own research and from talking to park and recreation users that they highly value what our members provide. Whether an agency’s budget is large or small, it

Whether an agency’s budget is large or small, it provides tremendous value to its community in the form of higher property values. passion NRPA’s members have for their profession. Thought leadership developed from NRPA research is one way we can convey this passion to policymakers and the public.

P&R: You earned your Ph.D. in economics — talk about that discipline as it relates to parks and recreation.

Should agencies be thinking differently about the economics of both the country at large and their own operations? If so, what should the focus be and why?

provides tremendous value to its community in the form of higher property values, creation of economic activity and adding to the standard of living, among other things. This is helpful as [parks and recreation has] a great economic story to tell the policymakers who set their budgets.

P&R: What’s your favorite recreational activity?

Roth: Walking outdoors. In addition to whatever workout I may do in the morning, I take an hour walk every

evening after dinner. Fortunately, my town has a great system of sidewalks and park trails that allow me to safely walk as I decompress for the evening.

On weekends, these walks often take two or three hours. And when I travel for work or pleasure, I always have a pair of comfortable walking shoes so I can explore the town I am visiting.

P&R: Rumor has it you’re an avid “Simpsons” fan — which of the following characters would you most like to be for a day and why: Homer Simpson, Lisa Simpson, Krusty the Clown, Comic Book Guy, Professor Fink or Monty Burns?

Roth: What gives that away?! The fact that my daughter and cats have all been named after Simpson characters?

This is a tough question as they each have their good points (perhaps Monty Burns being the exception), yet all are quirky. But there is something compelling about Homer. He is living a full life, surrounded by friends and family who forgive him despite his many foibles. Everyone loves him…well, everyone except for Frank Grimes.

— Samantha Bartram, Executive Editor of Parks & Recreation magazine

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NRPA Update NRPA is dedicated to providing learning opportunities to advance the development of best practices and resources that make parks and recreation indispensable elements of American communities.

Find out more at www.nrpa.org/education.

NOV

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Farmington, New Mexico Lexington, South Carolina North Salt Lake, Utah North Kansas City, Missouri Carmel, Indiana Bellevue, Washington Largo, Florida South Portland, Maine

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SCHOOLS AND CONFERENCES NRPA Conferences and Schools are forums where the park and recreation community comes together to exchange ideas and information. Register now for these upcoming events. All NRPA Schools are held at Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, West Virginia, unless otherwise indicated.

September 15-17, 2015 Las Vegas, Nevada

November 1-5, 2015

January 17-22, 2016

www.nrpa.org/elearning

January 31-February 5, 2016

March 13-18, 2016

www.nrpa.org/education

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Operations Managing the Canada Geese Population in Parks

By Del Williams

P

arks are vital for community health, whether for sports, picnics, play areas or relaxation. But flocks of previously migratory Canada geese, drawn in recent years by food, water and safety, have settled yearround in many parks, devouring turf, defecating abundantly and leaving some areas virtually unusable.

Hunting, draining of wetlands and over-harvestings of their eggs brought the population of Canada geese to near extinction in most parts of North America in the early 1900s.

With the passage of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, it became illegal to hunt waterfowl or other migratory birds, except during the hunting season or by federal permit. But, Canada geese are very adaptable, especially to urban and suburban habi-

88 Parks & Recreation

tats, and with the changing weather, increased development along their migratory route, and changing farming patterns, many Canada geese no longer migrate to traditional wintering grounds in the southern United States and Mexico. Home has become the parks, golf courses and suburban sub-developments across much of North America. The population explosion of these beautiful heralds of spring and fall, whose V-forma-

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tions continue to enthrall us, have, in places such as airports and parks, become a nuisance and a danger.

To put things in perspective, here are a few interesting facts about the damage Canada geese can inflict: A single Canada goose can eat up to 3 pounds of turf and defecate up to 2 pounds per day. According to National Geographic, just 50 geese can produce 2.5 tons of excrement in a year. Excessive Canada geese droppings in ponds and lakes can raise fecal coliform levels, diminishing water quality. The nitrogen content in the droppings also can contribute to excessive algae growth in ponds and lakes, causing local health authorities to close them. Not surprisingly, reducing the geese population in public areas of park districts, big and small, is a major issue. But, because Canada geese are a protected species, this requires finding unique ways of getting the geese to “move out” without killing or harming them.

“We’re trying to get the Canada geese to move to where there’s less conflict, away from people in highuse park areas, away from where there could be a water-quality issue,” says Cathy Breitenbach, Chicago Park District’s (CPD) director of Cultural and Natural Resources.

CPD, with approximately 600 parks, 26 miles of lakefront, 16 historic lagoons and natural water features, and more than 8,300 acres of open space including 1,000 turf-based athletic fields, sought a humane way to

move the nonmigratory geese out of conflict with the public in high-use park areas.

Preventing Geese Problems Smith, Craven and Curtis, authors of “Managing Canada Geese in Urban Environments: A Technical Guide,” point out that identifying the characteristics of a site that make it attractive to geese (security, food, nesting sites, water) is key to successfully managing the problem. They go on to say that “Choosing techniques while ignoring the biological or behavioral aspects of goose activity will likely not solve the problem.”

Control techniques can range from imposing a year-round ban on feeding the geese using signs that explain why it is important not to feed them, to modifying the landscape, installing devices or using methods to scare them away, using repellents or chemicals, and/or capturing and relocating them.

Depending on the method(s) chosen, costs will vary. Since Canada geese are a federally protected species, before choosing the method(s) to resolve the problem, Smith, Craven and Curtis recommend checking with local or state government to ensure you’re not violating any laws or regulations.

CPD chose to use a goose repellent (in this case one that uses an environmentally safe compound called anthraquinone formulated by Arkion Life Sciences — more information can be found at www.flightcontrolparksandrec.com) designed to both send the geese a visual warning and provide an innocuous, but unpleasant, consequence for eating treated turf. When sprayed on turf, the compound absorbs ultraviolet light, something the geese can see even though humans can’t. This sends a visual signal to the geese that some

thing is wrong with their food. When geese sample treated turf it gives them a stomachache, a harmless but effective digestive irritation that reinforces the message that this isn’t the grass to eat, so they avoid treated turf in the future.

For Chris Cassani, executive director of the Park and Forestry Department in Quincy, Massachusetts, and Nik Banda, deputy city manager and economic development director for Rochester, New York, using Arkion Life Sciences’ goose repellant also resulted in a cleaner park. According to Banda, hundreds of people a day come to the park, and people fish the pond all day long in the summer, often sitting or standing on the banks of the pond. “If they’re standing or sitting in goose feces, it’s not a good thing,” he says. At first the city’s parks department tried scaring the geese away with dogs and noisemakers but the geese returned as soon as the dogs left and several people thought the explosions sounded like gunshots, so the department stopped using them.

In Quincy, Massachusetts, the city’s protected, fenced-in sports fields were especially attractive to Canada geese. The fields provide abundant food, while the fences offered protection and visual warning of attack for the geese. Cassani also opted to use the repellent. “We saw a flock feed for a little while then go away,” he says. “It was a night and day difference, particularly at one

soccer field. We went from hundreds of geese down to essentially none in a short time.”

In addition to adding signage that explains the importance of not feeding the geese, other habitat modifications can include either planting a species of grass that the geese do not like, tall fescue for example, or, where possible replacing the lawn with unpalatable ground cover such as periwinkle, Japanese pachysandra and English ivy. A more involved and bit costlier method includes increasing the slope of the bank of the pond or lake to 64 degrees or steeper for a length of at least 2 meters. Scare tactics, such as using border collies, erecting silhouettes of predatory animals, using boats, planes or helicopters or other types of noisemaking devices, work only if used repeatedly and, in the case of cutout effigies, if moved regularly.

For more information about the techniques that are most effective for different situations, we recommend you consult the earlier mentioned, “Managing Canada Geese in Urban Environments: A Technical Guide,”

by Smith, Craven and Curtis, or visit the Internet Center for Wildlife Damage Management at http://icwdm. org/handbook/birds/canadageese/ ControlTechniquesHome.aspx.

Parks & Recreation magazine Managing Editor Sonia Myrick contributed to this report.

Del Williams is a technical writer based in Torrance, California (deldewayne@gmail.com).

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Products Precast Press Box

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Easi-Set Buildings’ newest product is the ultra-compact all-precast concrete press box.

The first two were installed in July by their licensed producer, Oldcastle Precast, at the new Berry Lane Park in Jersey City, New Jersey. They are being used for a multipurpose playing field and a baseball diamond. Setup and ready to use in just one day, the precast press boxes can be fully outfitted with electricity and heating or cooling equipment. They come available in a variety of exterior styles and colors to match the surroundings or existing structures. Resistant to disaster and vandalism, Easi-Set Buildings press boxes are built to last for decades of hard play with very limited maintenance. EASI-SET BUILDINGS, 866.252.8210, WWW.EASISETBUILDINGS.COM

The John Deere TractorPlus application provides turf maintenance professionals with easy access to information to help them learn more about their 3E, 3R, 4M and 4R compact utility tractors. Intended to serve as a quick reference tool, the application offers access to a step-by-step guide for setting up the tractor, an instrument panel icon glossary, an error code look up for diagnostic trouble codes, and a notebook to save notes on the machine’s performance. The John Deere TractorPlus application is available for free download on iTunes®, Google Play™ and the John Deere App Center. JOHN DEERE & COMPANY, 800.537.8233, WWW.JOHNDEERE.COM

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Rugby Manufacturing redesigned its line of Eliminator LP dump bodies to better meet distributor and customer needs. The new line is available in carbon steel, aluminum and stainless steel construction in 9-foot and 11-foot lengths with interchangeable parts. A 12-foot model is available in carbon steel and aluminum. The steel model now features a seamless, one-piece 10 gauge steel floor for optimum strength and durability. All Rugby Eliminator LP models are available with fold-down sides and feature their EZ-LATCH™ upper tailgate mechanism. New features also include a front corner post, standardized cabshields, understructure with installed wire harness loops and bolt-on tarp hooks. RUGBY MANUFACTURING, 701.776.5722, WWW. RUGBYMFG.COM 90 Parks & Recreation

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Global Tech LED Universal Mounting Plates are a uniform nineunit family of off-the-shelf universal mounting plates for easily retrofitting existing pole and surface-mount energy-wasting outdoor pathway, high bay and area lights. These mounting plates facilitate trouble-free retrofits in a wide range of shoe box, high bay and post top designs. Readily adjustable, slotted mounting areas on each model accommodate almost every housing dimension among the three styles. Active cooling and build versatility of the Solstice LED modules makes these plates perfect for any environment. GLOBAL TECH LED, 877.748.5533, WWW.GLOBALTECHLED.COM

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EasiSetBuildings.com 866.252.8210

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Request free information from the manufacturers of the products found in this issue.

I prefer to receive the information via

Mail

Phone

Email______________________________________________

Name________________________________________________________________ Phone__________________________ Address______________________________________________________________________________________________ City_________________________________________________State________________ZIP_________________________ Does your park or recreation facility host art installations? If so, what response have you received from the community?]

reader service

YES! I would like free product information!

____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Please email your answers to dstorm@nrpa.org.

Check the product(s)/company(ies) that you would like information from: AQUATICS Aquaclimb...............................................20 800.956.6692 | www.aquaclimb.com Aquatic Recreation Company................51 877.632.0503 | www.arc4waterplay.com Pentair Commercial...............................56 800.831.7133 | www.pentaircommercial.com Stearns Flotation....................................18 303.376.6452 | www.stearnsflotation.com/ puddle-jumpers-C5.aspx Vortex International..............................52 877.586.7839 | www.vortex-intl.com Water Odyssey........................................29 512.392.1155 | www.waterodyssey.com ARCHITECTS/ENGINEERS BSW Architects.......................................39 972.960.9970 | www.bsw-architects.com ATHLETIC/EXERCISE EQUIPMENT Greenfields Outdoor Fitness...................3 888.315.9037 | www.greenfieldsfitness.com Go Ape.....................................................92 415.553.0769 | www.goape.com TriActive America...................................23 800.587.4228 | www.triactiveamerica.com BLEACHERS/SEATING FermobUSA.............................................33 678.267.2025 | www.fermobusa.com Polly Products........................................43 877.609.2243 | www.pollyproducts.com Victor Stanley...........................................7 800.368.2573 | www.victorstanley.com BUILDINGS/TENTS/SHELTERS Classic Recreation Company.................17 800.697.2195 | www.classicrecreation.com Easi-Set Buildings..................................92 866.252.8210 | www.easisetbuildings.com Poligon ...................................................42 616.399.1963 | www.poligon.com Shade Creations by Waterloo................39 800.537.1193 | www.shadecreations.com Shade Systems Inc....................................1 800.609.6066 | www.shadesystemsinc.com/ sails COMMUNICATIONS Amplivox Sound Systems......................26 800.267.5486 | www.ampli.com Anchor Audio/markertek® Professional... 94 800.522.2025 | www.markertek.com

Basinger Audio.......................................91 877.638.5816 | www.portablesound.com CONCESSIONS Gold Medal Products Co........................93 800.543.0862 | www.gmpopcorn.com EDUCATION/TRAINING Save the Children...................................15 800.728.3843 | www.savethechildren.org/parks ICE RINKS Nice Rink.................................................30 888.642.3746 | www.nicerink.com LIGHTING Musco Lighting.......................................11 800.825.6030 | www.musco.com MAINTENANCE PRODUCTS/SERVICES Rent National..........................................94 800.352.5675 | www.rentnational.com Tree Stabilizer.........................................94 800.691.1148 | www.treestabilizer.com PARK PRODUCTS/SERVICES Adventure Golf Services........................40 888.725.4FUN | www.adventureandfun.com Alpine Bike Parks...................................55 800.924.5690 | www.alpinebikeparks.com Ameristar Fence.....................................48 800.321.8724 | www.ameristarfence.com Dogipot.............................................37, 91 800.364.7681 | www.dogipot.com Dog-on-it Parks......................................91 877.FIT.DOGS | www.dog-on-it.parks.com Doty & Sons............................................92 800.233.3907 | www.byobagsgame.com E.S. Spencer Sculpture Studios.............45 913.638.6634 | www.esschubert.com Great American Business Products.......43 800.790.8896 | www.petwasteeliminator.com Kay Park Recreation...............................93 800.553.2476 | www.kaypark.com Livin The Dog Life™................................93 800.931.1562 | www.livinthedoglife.com Lockers.com............................................55 800.562.5377 | www.lockers.com Most Dependable Fountains.................35 800.552.6331 | www.mostdependable.com Murdock Manufacturing.........................5 800.453.7465 | www.murdockmfg.com Mutt- Mitt................................................30 800.697.6084 | www.muttmitt.com

Paris Equipment Manufacturing LLC....27 800.387.6318 | www.peml.com Pilot Rock................................................41 800.762.5002 | www.pilotrock.com Stageline Mobile Staging......................45 800.267.8243 | www.stageline.com Sun Charge Systems, Inc........................17 205.274.7002 | www.sunchargesystems.com Willoughby Industries...........................12 800.428.4065 | www.willoughby-ind.com PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT Burke.......................................................31 800.356.2070 | www.bciburke.com/P&R Cemrock..................................................25 520.571.1999 | www.cemrock.com Gametime...............................................C4 800.235.2440 | www.gametime.com Landscape Structures®....................C3, 93 888.438.6574 | www.playlsi.com Playworld................................................C2 800.233.8404 | www.playworldsystems.com Themed Concepts..................................47 855.724.3270 | www.play4change.org SIGNS/SCOREBOARDS Scoremaster............................................94 888.726.7627 | www.scoremaster.com SURFACING Groundsmart Rubber Mulch.................53 800.961.0909 | www.groundsmartrubber mulch.com International Mulch.................................9 866.936.8524 | www.internationalmulch.com Matéflex..................................................34 800.926.3539 | www.mateflex.com RubberRecycle........................................57 888.436.6846 | www.rubberecycle.com SofSURFACES..........................................13 800.263.2363 | www.sofsurfaces.com GROUNDS MAINTENANCE Bishop Enterprises Inc...........................91 615.233.5173 | www.turf-aire.com Club Car...................................................49 800.258.2227 | www.clubcardealer.com John Deere..............................................21 800.537.8233 | www.johndeere.com/MOD Superthrive.............................................12 800.441.8482 | www.superthrive.com Toro.........................................................19 800.803.8676 | www.toro.com

Mail the completed form to Dana Storm at NRPA, 22377 Belmont Ridge Road, Ashburn, VA 20148-4501 or email to dstorm@nrpa.org.

(ISSN 0031-2215) is published monthly by the National Recreation and Park Association, 22377 Belmont Ridge Rd., Ashburn, VA 20148, a service organization supported by membership dues and voluntary contributions. Copyright ©2015 by the National Recreation and Park Association. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in signed articles are those of the writers and not necessarily those of NRPA. Issued to members at the annual subscription price of $30, included in dues. Subscription: $36 a year in the U.S.; $46 elsewhere. Single copy price: $4.50. Library rate: $48 a year in the U.S.; $58 elsewhere. Periodical postage paid at Ashburn, Virginia, and at additional mailing offices. Editorial and advertising offices at 22377 Belmont Ridge Rd., Ashburn, VA 20148. 703.858.0784. Postmaster, send address changes to Parks & Recreation, 22377 Belmont Ridge Rd., Ashburn, VA 20148.

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Park Bench

The (Not So) Itsy-Bitsy Spider Web Huge communal spider webs sound like something out of a sci-fi thriller, but they’re very real, and they’re nothing to be afraid of.

When Jeff Reynolds, a resident of Rowlett, Texas, happened upon a massive collection of connected spider webs in the trees at Lakeside Park South, he was initially worried, but not for the reason you might think. “I was concerned. We have tree parasites here, and since it covered entire trees, I was worried.” After alerting Rowlett Parks and Recreation authorities, Reynolds discovered that the strange sight in the trees was actually a grouping of spiders that formed one giant communal nest. Reynolds said he had never seen anything like it, explaining that he’s “had an interest in arachnology from a young age.” Dr. Roy Vogtsberger, an entomologist at Midwestern State University, suspects the spiders are of the species Tetragnatha guatemalensis, which were responsible for a similar gigantic web constructed in 2007 at Lake Tawakoni in Wills Point, Texas.

As for what caused the phenomenon, Reynolds knows that the communal web behavior only occurs when the environment is right.

“When I see a large grouping of spiders, I know there’s a reason for that,” he says. “We’ve had record amounts of rainfall, resulting in standing water and more mosquitoes. The spiders eat those mosquitoes. I never looked at it as creepy or weird, because I can understand why such a thing occurred.” Reynolds believes these webs present a great educational opportunity that could reduce the public’s fear of spiders and promote a better understanding of the local environment, saying the webs could “go from an eyesore to a city resource.” But, is there any danger in these webs? Rowlett Parks and Recreation Manager, Keith Flournoy, says, “It’s not something we’re concerned about. People say, ‘the spiders are invading our park!’ They’re not in the park, they’re on the edge of the park near the water, and they’re not invading. There are no negative impacts.”

— Marissa Bracamonte, Editorial Intern for Parks & Recreation magazine 96 Parks & Recreation

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HealthBeat is a good fit for fitness 速

HealthBeat provides exercise opportunities to people of all fitness levels and abilities.

Bring more users to your park with the HealthBeat速 outdoor fitness system. Reinvented with a contemporary design, patentpending resistance technology and three brand new stations, HealthBeat brings gym-quality equipment to the fresh outdoors.

The ability to pair stations together saves space and cost, making HealthBeat a perfect fit for outdoor exercise in the park, next to the ball field, or at a senior living community. Contact your local Landscape Structures playground consultant for more information.

Watch HealthBeat in action at www.playlsi.com/hb.

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PARKS&RECREATION SEPTEMBER 2015 ◆ 2015 NRPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE ISSUE