MPRA Magazine Spring 2024

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

JEFF STUBBLEFIELD MPRA Board President

WHAT A TERRIFIC CONFERENCE!

“Making Missouri Better, One Park at a Time” was certainly a very fitting slogan for this year’s MPRA Conference in St. Charles. The conference committee, led by Maralee Britton, did a fantastic job as did the MPRA Staff: Gary, Sarah, Heather, and intern Josh. I heard many positive comments about the educational sessions, networking opportunities, exhibit hall, social activities, and the facility.

I want to congratulate the Jefferson City Maintenance Crew for winning the Inaugural MPRA Maintenance Rodeo State Championship. It was great to see the maintenance staff there to participate, even though the weather didn’t fully cooperate. I hope this event is expanded to all regions in the coming years!

I would also like to extend congratulations to all of our award winners this year. I enjoy hearing the presentation and learning about the impact they have made. This year gave us the opportunity to honor Mark McHenry as the latest inductee in the Missouri Recreation and Parks Hall of Fame for his years of service not only to Kansas City but MPRA. The Fellow

Award went to Brian Schaffer, for his years of service to our profession and also to MPRA. I look forward to the expansion of our awards that Cassie Brandt and the Citation and Awards Committee have planned for the future.

As I wrap up my term as MPRA President, I am excited about the future of our association and the progress made with the MPRA strategic plan. I want to thank the MPRA staff and Board of Directors for all of their hard work over the past year, and I want to thank each of you again for the outstanding conference. I’m looking forward to visiting Branson in 2025!

WE NEED YOUR

Please send articles, news, and highresolution photos to Heather Rice at heather@mopark.org

DEADLINES

Summer 2024 - June 7, 2024

Fall 2024 - August 16, 2024

Winter 2025 - November 8, 2024

ADVERTISING

For more information regarding advertising please contact MPRA at (573)636-3828 or heather@mopark.org.

PLEASE NOTE Editorial and contents of this magazine reflect the records of the Missouri Park and Recreation Association (MPRA). MPRA has done their best to provide useful and accurate information, but please take into account that some information does change. MPRA takes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information printed, inadvertent omissions, printing errors, nor do they endorse products and services. We take no responsibility regarding representations or warranties concerning the content of advertisements of products/services for a particular use, including all information, graphics, copyrighted materials, and assertions included in the advertisements. The reader is advised to independently check all information before basing decisions on such information.

City, MO 65109-1186 P: (573) 636-3828 www.mopark.org

FEATURES

ANNOUNCEMENTS

KIRKSVILLE

Cody Bryant recently joined the Kirksville Parks and Recreation team. He is a Kirksville native and a recent graduate from the University of Central Missouri with a degree in sports management. In his new role, Cody will be responsible for overseeing aquatic programs and staff and collaborating closely with team members to create exciting new aquatic programs.

JEFFERSON CITY

Jefferson City Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Department is excited to announce the hiring of their new Director, Aaron Grefrath. Aaron has been with the department as Assistant Parks Director since 2017. Aaron graduated from Lincoln University with a degree in physical education. Before working at JC Parks, Aaron was Activity Center Director for State Technical College of Missouri and Senior Program Director for the Jefferson City YMCA. He also holds a master’s degree in education-athletic administration from William Woods University. “I was born and raised here [in Jefferson City]. It’s a community that I certainly think supports me and I support them. So, I love calling Jefferson City my home, and I forever will.”

MEXICO

Mexico Parks and Recreation is excited to announce the hiring of Tyler Huffman as their new Recreation Supervisor. Tyler is originally from Dixon, Il., and currently resides in Columbia. He graduated with a degree in sports management from AIB College of Business where he also played baseball. His hobbies include fitness and outdoor recreation sports. Tyler is excited to help develop and provide the community with leisure and recreation activities for everyone to enjoy!

CLAYTON

Leann Hogan has been hired as Community Recreation Manager for Clayton Parks and Recreation. Leann is passionate about the benefits of parks, recreation, and fitness, and the impact on the lives of individuals of all abilities. She has a Master of Science in Health and Physical Education with an emphasis in recreation and park administration. Her background includes a unique combination of municipal recreation program development, camps, special events, hospitality, and fundraising. Most recent positions include the management of the Kickstand Katy Trail Bicycle rental shops along the Katy Trail and Assistant Park Supervisor at St. Charles County Kinetic Park. She is licensed and certified as a sign language interpreter and has developed her skills in both community and educational settings. On a part-time basis, she has instructed basic conversational sign language classes and worked in the Missouri wine industry for over two decades. She is very excited to be a part of the Center of Clayton team and looks forward to serving the community.

FGM ARCHITECTS

Ryn Burns, AIA, with 20+ years of experience, joined FGMA as Principal in 2022. His career has focused on sustainability, resilience, biophilia, adaptive reuse, and equity in the built environment. His design experience in multifamily/ mixed-use residential projects includes high and mid-rise buildings as well as historic preservation and communitydriven developments. Ryn received his Bachelor of Architecture degree from Princeton University, a Master of Design Studies and Critical Conservation degree from Harvard University Graduate School of Design, and a Master of Architecture degree from Northeastern University. He is based in FGMA’s Reston, VA office.

Andy Stehl, AIA, LEED BD+C, joined FGMA in 2006 and was promoted to Vice President in 2023. He has worked in a variety of practice areas and, since 2018, has focused primarily on FGMA’s federal practice. His federal experience encompasses different project types, including the LEED Silver Pierce Terrace Elementary School at Fort Jackson, SC, and the Offutt Air Force Base Security Forces Squadron Campus in Nebraska. Based in FGMA’s St. Louis, MO office, Andy received his Bachelor of Science in Architectural Technologies degree from Ranken Technical College.

Allison Stoos, AIA, with 12+ years of experience, joined FGMA in 2014 and was promoted to Senior Associate in 2022. Based in the firm’s Austin, TX office, Allison has led numerous design projects for worship communities that have encompassed master planning, new facility design as well as building expansions and renovations. She received her Bachelor of Environmental Design and Architecture degree from Texas A&M University and her Master of Architecture degree from the University of Texas at Austin.

BLUE SPRINGS

Brendon Zachery joins Blue Springs Parks and Recreation as Recreation ProgrammerSports. He oversees the youth and adult sports programs as well as a handful of events for the department. Previously, he was Recreation Supervisor over sports for Warrensburg Parks and Recreation and Recreation Specialist for the City of Garland, TX. Brendon graduated from the University of Central Missouri in 2018 with a bachelor’s degree in sports management. He also earned his master’s degree in 2020 in sports management and kinesiology. Brendon played football at UCM and is originally from Chicago.

Dani Moje has been hired as the new Recreation Coordinator for Blue Springs Parks and Recreation. She started with the department working as a Summer Camp Counselor at the Blue Springs Fieldhouse for two years. Dani will help plan all camp events and some special events for the City of Blue Springs. She is very excited to continue to work directly with the community.

Matthew Asikainen has been promoted to Superintendent of Fieldhouse and Aquatics for Blue Springs Parks and Recreation. He will directly oversee the operations of the existing Blue Springs Fieldhouse and the new Blue Surf Bay Waterpark which he has been a part of since the original planning phase of the project. Before joining Blue Springs Parks and Recreation in 2018, Matt was with Ferguson Parks and Recreation.

SEDALIA

After a brief hiatus as Director of Marketing at Whiteman Air Force Base, Savannah Lynde has returned to Sedalia Parks and Recreation as their Marketing and Special Events Manager. Savannah graduated from the University of Central Missouri with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Hospitality Management, specializing in events and marketing. She has several years of experience in planning events, marketing for a variety of programs, and with local parks. Savannah is a huge Disney enthusiast and loves going to concerts. In her free time, she can be found hanging out with her husband, Dylan, and their three-year-old son, Luke. She has a passion for giving back to the community by creating meaningful events for all ages to enjoy. She is most excited to be able to showcase her creativity through unique marketing strategies and hosting extraordinary events for the Sedalia community to enjoy. Welcome back Savannah!

PARKVILLE

Jaron Morgan joins the Parkville Parks and Recreation team as a Skilled Parks Maintenance Laborer. Jaron is a recent graduate of Platte County High School and has gained valuable experience while working part-time for Parkville Parks and Recreation for the past three years. Jaron was first introduced to Parkville Parks through the completion of his Eagle Scout project. Parkville is excited to welcome Jaron to the team!

LIBERTY

Thomas Connor has joined Liberty Parks and Recreation as the new Recreation Coordinator - Sports at Capitol Federal Sports Complex. Thomas has worked part-time at the Liberty Community Center since 2021 and was hired full-time at the end of 2023. Thomas coordinates the baseball, softball, and T-ball leagues. From planning schedules to making sure games run smoothly, he’s here to make a big difference for youth athletes in Liberty. “I played sports my whole life and went to college for baseball. I also grew up in Liberty, so I’m excited to take on this new position to bring sports back into my life and give back to the community I love!” Thomas recently completed training through the National Alliance for Youth Sports to become a Certified Youth Sports Administrator. Welcome to the team!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

NORTHWEST MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY

Joel McCormick was hired as Associate Professor of Recreation for Northwest Missouri State University in the Fall of 2023. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Florida in 2011. Joel’s teaching and research interests include the benefits of play, outdoor recreation, crime prevention, facility management, and youth development. Joel’s community involvement includes environmental education, 4-H, and Scouting USA. During his free time, he enjoys traveling, camping, and outdoor adventures with his wife and 10-year-old son.

NEXT GENERATION RECREATION

Rodney “Born to Play” Born is pleased to return to the outdoor recreation industry as Sales and Design Specialist with Next Generation Recreation and Playworld Systems. A Certified Playground Safety Inspector and passionate outdoorsman, Rodney brings the resources of a 12-year career and the experience of over a thousand playground projects to serve public and private entities in Kansas and Missouri. He adds “It is going to be great visiting so many of my old friends, colleagues, and customers. I’ve landed on a fantastic team with Next Gen Rec and I can’t wait to see what’s next!” Rodney makes his home in Olathe with his wife Raedean and beagle Woodstock.

O’FALLON

The O’Fallon Parks and Recreation Department would like to congratulate Brian Krafft on his promotion to Parks Maintenance Supervisor! Brian has been with the City of O’Fallon since 2011, most recently serving as Parks Crew Leader. In this new role, he will oversee the operations of five O’Fallon parks which includes directly supervising three different crews. Brian is looking forward to taking on new responsibilities and working directly with his team to help them and their parks grow.

LEE’S SUMMIT

Erin Birchard has been promoted to Recreation Supervisor II with Lee’s Summit Parks and Recreation. Erin oversees personal training, massage therapy, fitness orientations, and various health and wellness programs. She also manages parttime staffing and coordinates the annual Tour de Lakes bike ride. Erin originally began her career with Lee’s Summit as Recreation Supervisor I in 2021. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Recreation, Corporate Recreation/Wellness and Master of Science in Recreation Administration from Northwest Missouri State University. In her free time, Erin enjoys walks with her family and dog, spending time with friends and family, and making crafts.

Sean Dorrance has been promoted to Recreation Supervisor II with Lee’s Summit Parks and Recreation. Sean oversees youth and adult instructional activities, eSports, the Legacy Park Amphitheatre, and the spring/summer concert series. Sean holds a Bachelor of Science in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism from the University of Missouri and has been working for Lee’s Summit since 2021. Sean enjoys video games, watching sports, and cinema.

Paul Arndorfer has been promoted to Harris Park Community Center Manager. Paul began his career with Lee’s Summit Parks and Recreation in 2021. Before this, he worked for 25 years as a strength and conditioning coach at the division I college level. In his role, Paul oversees Hartman Park, the Harris Park Community Center, and all the sports leagues for children and adults. Paul enjoys watching his children play sports in his spare time and working out.

ST. LOUIS COUNTY

Abby Evers joins the Forestry Division of St. Louis County Parks and Recreation. A St. Louis native, Abby graduated from the University of Missouri in 2008 with a degree in forestry resources. Her culinary interests led her to pursue a career in the restaurant industry before returning to her roots in the local forestry community. Abby is particularly fascinated by the biology of trees and their role in the ecosystem. In addition to her passion for cooking, she enjoys dogs, gardening, homesteading, and traveling to new destinations.

Logan Cable was hired in December 2023 as Maintenance Worker I at St. Louis County Parks and Recreation assisting with the upkeep and maintenance at Buder Park. He loves knowing that he and his team are making a positive impact in the parks for community members. He strives to make a difference in the park as it makes them a better place for everyone.

Alexander Steele has been at Creve Coeur Lake Park as a Maintenance Worker I for about 6 months. Prior to his current role, he gained valuable experience through several AmeriCorps positions. Most recently, he served as an Interpreter at historic Chippokes State Park in Virginia. He also was part of the AmeriCorps NCCC program, where he completed a variety of assignments including wildfire prevention with the USDA Forest Service in northern California and providing income tax preparation assistance for low-income families through the United Way in Seattle. In his leisure time, Alexander enjoys watching movies, spending time outdoors, honing his photography skills, and reading.

Caleb Regenstein started his professional journey at St. Louis County Parks and Recreation as an intern in Spring 2023, while pursuing his studies at The University of Missouri- Columbia. Following his internship, he was employed at the Greensfelder Recreation Complex and has continued to advance within the organization. With two promotions under his belt, Caleb now holds the position of Recreation Facility Coordinator at the Kennedy Recreation Complex, where he manages programming, as well as the Alpine Tower and Team Challenge Course. In his leisure time, he enjoys spending time with his girlfriend and their cats, Orzo and Gnocchi.

Tlacloc “T” Lopez-Paz was hired in the fall of 2023 as an Environmental Technician for St. Louis County Parks and Recreation. In this role, he is responsible for managing stormwater infrastructure, developing and maintaining rain gardens, and overseeing various stormwater projects. His primary focus is on incorporating native plants and restoring native ecosystems within the parks system. T also actively participates in prescribed burns and is currently involved in a project to install nest boxes in the rain gardens to support the urban populations of native birds. He is enthusiastic about his work and dedicated to integrating native ecosystems into urban environments during his 40-hour work week.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ST. JOSEPH

St. Joseph Parks and Recreation is excited to welcome Chad Faucett as Assistant Manager of the REC Center where he previously worked part-time refereeing volleyball. Chad is excited to create new leagues and grow community interest in pickleball. He can’t wait to see what other fun and exciting things will come in the new year.

Wyatt Burnett has joined the St. Joseph Parks and Recreation team at Fairview Golf Course as the maintenance supervisor. They are excited to welcome them to their staff.

After many decades with St. Joseph Parks and Recreation, Penny Wingard has announced her retirement from the Fairview Golf Course manager position. Her dedication and commitment to serving her community will be missed. They wish her well in her retirement.

2024 CONFERENCE

Wrap Up

As the curtains draw to a close on yet another invigorating MPRA Conference, I find myself reflecting on the myriad of insights, discussions, and connections that unfolded. As the conference chair, it has been my privilege to witness the passion and dedication of professionals from across the state who are committed to enhancing the quality of life in our communities through parks, recreation, and leisure services.

Devin Henderson kicked off the week with his keynote address “Something Greater is Always Possible.” Master magician, soccer freestylist, father of seven (soon to be eight), comedian, and inspirational powerhouse, Devin set the tone for the conference by helping us realize that we are resilient and something greater is always possible. How did he know the answers to the card he mailed to me?! Does he know Ammo personally?!

It was an honor to host MPRA in St. Charles and I hope you enjoyed your time out and about at the Rec Hall, The Soda Museum, and Chicken N Pickle for social activities. It was truly inspiring to see everyone having fun and the camaraderie in competition of the various games. As the saying goes, we work hard, and we play hard!

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to the success

of this conference – from our dedicated speakers and presenters, sponsors, exhibitors, and enthusiastic attendees – your passion and commitment are truly inspiring. To the Conference Committee Chairs, their teams, and the MPRA Staff, you orchestrated a remarkable conference that will not be forgotten. Your dedication, meticulous planning, and collaborative efforts undeniably drove the success of this event. Thank you.

Returning to our communities, I hope we carry forward the lessons learned, and the connections made, as we continue to work towards a future where everyone has access to safe, inclusive, and engaging parks and recreational opportunities. Together, we have the power to transform lives and strengthen communities through the power of parks and recreation. Until next year, let us remain steadfast in our shared mission and unwavering in our dedication. After all, we are Making Missouri Better One Park at a Time!

MARALEE BRITTON 2024 MPRA Conference Chair

Allstate Consultants, LLC

Bacon Farmer Workman Engineering / Marcum Engineering

BagSpot Pet Waste Solutions

Ballard*King & Associates

Branco Enterprises, Inc.

Byrne & Jones Construction

Capri Pools & Aquatics

Counsilman-Hunsaker

Cunningham Recreation / GameTime

Extreme Electrical Contractors, LLC

Great Southern Recreation, LLC

Ideal Landscape Group

KAI Enterprises

Landscape Structures / Athco / NuToys

Midwest Pool Management

Miracle Recreation

Playground Company

Musco Sports Lighting

Planning Design Studio

Play & Park Structures

Sapp Design Associates Architects

Springfield ASA / Springfield-Greene

County Park Board

St. Charles County Parks

City of St. Charles

Parks and Recreation Board

SWT Design

Vireo, LLC

Westport Pools, A Landmark Aquatic Company

Conference Committee Chair

Maralee Britton

Program Committee Co-Chair

Andy Fleck

Program Committee Co-Chair (Tours)

Chris Atkinson

Expo Hall Committee Chair

Peter VanLinn

Social Committee Chair

Don Borgmeyer

Auction Committee Co-Chairs

Carolyn Fuchs, Chan Smoot

Room Host/Student Activities Committee Co-Chairs

Missy Hollander, Kayla Moon

Technology Committee Chair

Shelley Fischer

Sponsorship Chair

Ryan Graham

Cassie Brandt Hall of Fame Chair

Brian Schaffer

2024 CONFERENCE STATS

DELEGATES ATTENDED: 681 2023: 446

DELEGATES WHO LOGGED INTO THE APP: 535 2023: 358

OVERALL RATING OF EDUCATION

SESSIONS: 4.3/5 2023: 4.2/5

EXHIBITORS: 121 2023: 112

AMOUNT RAISED AT AUCTION: $12,993 2023: $15,048

MEALS WASTED: 345 (Value of $13,000)

Let’s Do Better!

NUMBER OF EDUCATION

SESSIONS: 73 2023: 80

DELEGATES WHO ATTENDED THE EXPO HALL: 606 2023: 419

Region 2 Outstanding New Professional KYLE LAIRMORE

Nominated by Dana Hampton

Public Official Achievement Award

MAYOR CARSON ROSS

Nominated by Justin Stuart

Region 4 Outstanding New Professional TONY BIZELLI

Nominated by Jeremy Wolfmeyer

Public Official Achievement Award

STEVE EHLMANN

Nominated by Ryan Graham

Associate Fellow Award KATIE BUFORD

Nominated by Jody Siemer

Katie Buford was just a high school student when she began working for Nixa Parks and Recreation as a Community Center Front Desk Attendant. From her first day on the job, everyone knew she was going to be exceptional. What started as an after-school job has transformed into an amazing 18-year career, eventually seeing her serve as the department’s Assistant Director for the past six years.

During her tenure, the department has undergone significant positive changes from rebranding and establishing business practice standards to formalizing staff training and professional development standards. With all that change, it is no coincidence that Katie has been in the middle of it all. In fact, Katie was selected by her city’s leadership team to be the coordinator of their four-time Innovation Award-winning Think Tank committee which focuses on developing solutions to improve the employee’s experience working in municipal government.

It was during this time that Katie took her engagement with the Missouri Park and Recreation Association to the next level. Seeing opportunities to share her passion for education and leadership, Katie jumped at the chance to take on leadership

opportunities with MPRA. Some of these opportunities have been as Education Conference Chair, on the Conference Program Committee, and Chair of the Education Ad-Hoc Committee.

Currently, Katie serves as Region 3’s Director as well as Chair of the Region Directors, and he Association’s Professional Development Chair. When Katie isn’t volunteering on a committee, and even sometimes when she is, she can be found presenting numerous high-value education sessions at MPRA’s Annual Conference, Region Mini Conferences, Lunch and Learns, and YPS meetings. Many of her education sessions are based on the results from the implementation of her team’s Think Tank solutions within her department. No matter what role Katie is in, her goal in each one is to help others by creating spaces where those around her can learn, grow, and go on to do even better things.

Associate Fellow Award

SUSAN JANKOWSKI

Nominated by Ben Grossman

Susan Jankowski is a vital part of the service-focused park professionals at Great Rivers Greenway in the St. Louis region. As Greenway Operations Manager, Susan is an integral part of a team responsible for supporting operation, maintenance, and conservation efforts throughout the St. Louis region. She helps lead a highly motivated and productive team that supports a great number of municipal and county parks departments to ensure an excellent user experience across 135 miles of multi-use trails.

chairing the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility sub-committee.

Susan began her career at St. Louis’s award-winning Forest Park as a horticulturist with Forest Park Forever. After a brief stent as an account executive for a video production company, she returned to her passion for park operations and has excelled. As an MPRA member, Susan is a graduate of the Leadership Development Institute and served as President of the Park Resource Section and on multiple planning committees for conferences including

She’s a graduate of NRPA’s Parks and Recreation Maintenance Management School and is currently serving on the Board of Regents to train park operations sta? across the county. She holds certifications as a Certified Park and Recreation Professional, Certified Playground Safety Inspector, and is an ISA certified Arborist. When she’s not tirelessly working to keep our greenways in top shape, she enjoys all things St. Louis, St. Louis CITY SC games, and spending time outdoors with her husband and two boys.

Fellow Award

BRIAN SCHAFFER

Nominated by Terri Johnson

Before starting his career with St. Louis County Parks, Brian Schaffer worked for the St. Louis Science Center in various roles from Special Gallery Assistant to Manager of Public and Special Programs from 1995 until 2002. Brian started employment with St. Louis County in March, 1999 as a part-time park ranger and later as a Recreation Facility Supervisor. In 2002, Brian accepted a position as a full-time Recreation Supervisor where he was responsible for athletic field allocations throughout the department, an ice rink, a swimming pool, and the Alpine Tower and Team Challenge course at Greensfelder Park. Brian became a Recreation Complex Manager at the North County Recreation Complex in 2006 and held that position until being promoted to Park Operations Manager in 2008. As the Operations Manager he was responsible for overseeing 70 parks that comprised 12,400 acres of parkland, 132 miles of trails, 76 shelters, 41 playgrounds, and 83

athletic fields with a staff of 104 full-time and 43 part-time employees and an $8M budget.

Brian left St. Louis County in January 2012 to become the Director of Parks for the City of Des Peres. While there, Brian used his park operations and recreation program experience to help further shape the agency under his leadership. Some of his notable achievements over that period include the completion of the 2016 Master Park Plan, securing nearly $2 million in grant support earmarked for park improvements, expansion of the Bittersweet Woods Conservation area, redevelopment of Pioneer Park, construction of new tennis and pickleball courts, and a complete HVAC overhaul at The Lodge.

Brian returned to St. Louis County Parks in the spring of 2021, this time as Assistant Director. In his brief time back at St. Louis County, Brian has been involved in administrative oversight with budget development, construction projects, recreational events, and hiring of new staff members.

2024 MRP Hall of Fame Inductee MARK MCHENRY

Mark McHenry came to the City of Kansas City, Missouri in the spring of 1974 as a Municipal Management Trainee.

In 1976, he was hired as the Park District Manager where he supervised approximately 50 employees. He trained, monitored, managed, and evaluated employees in the operations of maintaining park facilities. He kept supervisors and others informed of work progress and potential work issues and communicated and coordinated regularly with the director to maximize the efficiency of internal operations. Mark led by example, influencing, and assisting others to achieve great things.

Mark rose through the ranks quickly because of excellent performance and sound management, principles, and judgement. In 1988, Mark McHenry

was appointed as Deputy Director for the department.

As Deputy Director, he was appointed as the Kansas City Zoo Project Manager. Under his leadership, bonds were passed to support and expand the Kansas City Zoo with the addition of Australia in 1993, International Festival in 1994, and Africa in 1995. The opening of Africa drew approximately 40,000 visitors in the first two days alone. The improvements resulted in a record annual attendance of 700,000 guests and approximately 400,000 IMAX visitors. He also led the charge to change the Kansas City Zoo from a city-operated organization to a public-private partnership with the Friends of the Zoo.

Following his time at the Zoo, Mark was appointed Project Manager for the Restoration of the Liberty Memorial National World War One Museum and helped establish another public-private partnership.

Under his leadership, Mark helped acquire funding, design, and development to create beautiful places for people to gather in Kansas City. This includes the Children’s Fountain, the Firefighters Fountain and Memorial, and the Women’s Leadership Fountain. Other fountains developed and funded at this time were the Helzberg and Steadman Fountains at Starlight Theater, contributing beauty and cool sprays of water on summer evenings at the city’s premier outdoor music and theater venue. Mark also helped design and oversaw the construction of the Davis Civic Mall Fountain and Park, across from City Hall.

Mark was appointed Director in 2003, becoming the seventh in the 125-year history of the department. Mark oversaw an annual operating and capital budget of approximately $67,000,000. The department maintains 222 parks, 12,000+ acres of parkland, 158 miles of trails and bikeways, 29 lakes, hundreds of athletic fields and tennis courts, 115 playgrounds, and five public golf courses. Miles of scenic boulevards and parkways crisscross the city, where 48 fountains and 122 monuments and sculptures surprise

Throughout his career, Brian has served on numerous boards and commissions including Forest ReLeaf of Missouri, the St. Louis County Emergency Communications Commission, and the Open Space Council. Brian served as President of MPRA in 2019-20, served on the Board of Directors 2006-07, was a Director at Large 2012- 14, 2016-18, served on the Annual Conference Committee in 2006, 2008, and 2009, and again as Chair in 2011, along with countless other volunteer positions throughout the years.

and delight. Ten community centers, along with eight museums, provide the setting for socially equitable and community-driven programming.

In 2012, Mark and his team successfully obtained citizen support to pass a 1/2 cent sales tax in perpetuity to support the parks and recreation department.

Mark promoted parks and recreation issues through active participation in national, regional, and state agencies. He mentored municipal interns and young professionals from diverse backgrounds. Mark chaired the MPRA Legislative and Critical Issues Committee for a long time. He has developed excellent relationships with other governmental agencies, often called upon to share his expertise.

Mark put in countless hours meeting with citizens, developers, and councilmembers to put in place standards to preserve and protect the integrity of Kansas City’s historic parks and boulevard system. Both the parks board and city council approved the Boulevard and Parkway Standards. Under his leadership, the original park and boulevard system was listed on the National Registry of Historic Places by the National Park System, Department of the Interior.

Mark retired from his directorship in December 2018. Upon his retirement the KC Parks & Recreation Board named an 800-acre park in his honor. He currently works as a consultant, serves on several community non-profit boards, and in 2019, was appointed by the governor to serve on the Missouri Department of Conservation Commission.

2024 Region 4 Maintenance Rodeo Champions JC PARKS

2024 Region 1 Maintenance Rodeo Champions LIBERTY PARKS AND RECREATION St e Champion

2024 CONFERENCE EXHIBITORS

9 SQUARE IN THE AIR

14248 F Manchester Rd. Manchester, MO 63011 (877) 672-3938 sales@9squareintheair.com

A.T.G.-RAM INDUSTRIES, LLC

317 E. Commerce St. Andover, KS 67002 joe@atgsports.com

ABCREATIVE, INC.

33160 W 83rd St. De Soto, KS 66018 (913) 583-3332 tanner@abcreative.net

ADVANCED EXERCISE / WELLNESS FLOORING

861 Southpark Drive, #100 Littleton, CO 80120 (303) 996-0048 lmarsik@advancedexercise.com

ADVANCED TURF SOLUTIONS

8 Cermak Blvd St. Peters MO 63376 (573) 350-1075 jwinans@advancedturf.com

ALL INCLUSIVE REC

400 Washington St., Suite 224 Farmington, MO 63640 support@allinclusiverec.com

ALLSTATE CONSULTANTS, LLC

3312 LeMone Industrial Blvd. Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 875-8799 allstate@allstateconsultants.net

AMERICAN RAMP COMPANY

601 S Mckinley Ave. Joplin, MO 64801 evan@americanrampcompany.com

ARLAN CO.

11709 Roe Ave. #139 Leawood, KS 66211 larryarlan@gmail.com

ATHCO, LLC / LANDSCAPE STRUCTURES

13500 West 108 St. Lenexa, KS 66215 (913) 469-5600 canderson@athcollc.com

BACON FARMER WORKMAN ENGINEERING & TESTING

500 S 17th St. Paducah, KY 42003 (270) 443-1995 mthompson@bfwengineers.com

BAGSPOT PET WASTE SOLUTIONS

9506 Olive Blvd., #313 St. Louis, MO 63132 (314) 755-1037 info@bagspot.com

Conference sponsors are noted in purple . Thank you for your support!

BALLARD*KING & ASSOCIATES

2743 E. Ravenhill Cr. Highland Ranch, CO 80126 (303) 470-8661

darin@ballardking.com

BAZAN PAINTING CO.

1273 N Price Rd. St. Louis, MO 63132 (314) 991-3500

ehellwig@bazanpainting.com

BBN ARCHITECTS

411 Nichols Rd. #246 Kansas City, MO 64112 sbingham@bbnarchitects.com

BOND ARCHITECTS,INC.

222 S Central Ave. St. Louis, MO 63105 lgriffin@bondarchitectsinc.com

BRANCO ENTERPRISES INC.

1864 S State Hwy. MM Springfield, MO 65802 (417) 451-5250 gdowling@branco.com

BYRNE & JONES CONSTRUCTION

13940 St Charles Rock Rd. St. Louis, MO 63044 (314) 567-7997 bbrown@byrneandjones.com

CAPRI POOLS & AQUATICS

3050 W Clay St., Ste. 300 St. Charles, MO 63301 (314) 351-6020

dwiecher@capripool.com

CARSWELL OEI

2404 Mount Zion Rd. Greenwood, AR 72936 jsteele@carswelloei.com

CHALLENGER SPORTS & TEAMWEAR

8263 Flint Lenexa, KS 66214 mparry@challengersports.com

CHAMPLIN TIRE RECYCLING, INC.

301 Cedar, P.O. Box 445 Concordia, KS 66901 (785) 262-1219 mdhaist49@gmail.com

CLEANRIVER RECYCLING SOLUTIONS

288 Donhillock Dr. Aurora, ON L4G0G9 chauntelle.maricheau@cleanriver.com

COMMERCIAL AQUATIC SERVICES

1542 E Spruce St. Olathe, KS 66061 kathy@commercialaquatics.com

CONTINENTAL POOLS, INC.

404 W. Wilson St. Ottawa, KS 66067 twaage@cpks.net

COUNSILMAN-HUNSAKER

12851 Manchester Rd. St. Louis, MO 63127 (314) 894-1245

aquaticsforlife@chh2o.com

CREATIVE POLYMERS

9200 Latty Ave. Hazelwood, MO 63042 office@creativepolymersinc.com

CUNNINGHAM RECREATION

18250 Gillespie Rd. Farmington, MO 63640 (800) 438-2780 vendor@cunninghamrec.com

DICK HORTON PARKS AND RECREATION CONSULTING

507 Norris Dr. Pittsburg, KS 66762 (816) 210-3818

richardhorton971@gmail.com

MISSOURI STATE PARKS

P.O. Box 176

Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176 (800) 334-6946 mspgrants@dnr.mo.gov

VERMONT SYSTEMS

12 Market Pl. Essex Junction, VT 05452 dsmithflynn@clubessentialholdings.com

ECOTURF SURFACING

7356 Holliday Dr. Kansas City, KS 66106 (913) 713-1573 wade@ecoturfsurfacing.com

ELLIOTT DATA SYSTEMS, INC

17825 Edison Ave. Chesterfield, MO 63005 mbuydos@elliottdata.com

ENGRAPHIX ARCHITECTURAL SIGNAGE, INC.

132 Hanley Industrial Ct. St. Louis, MO 63144 spolatis@engraphix.com

EXTREME ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS, LLC

5590 Salt River Rd. St. Peter, MO 63376 amanda@extremeelectricalstl.com

EZ DOCK

3253 W 1000 N Fortville, IN 46040 mike@deatonsdocks.com

FARNSWORTH GROUP

20 Allen Ave., Ste. 200

St. Louis, MO 63119 (309) 429-6689 jheck@f-w.com

FOREMOST FITNESS GROUP LLC

1122 Spring Lilly Ct. High Ridge, MO 63049 hanna@foremostfitnessgroup.com

FORREST KEELING NURSERY

88 Forrest Keeling Ln. Elsberry, MO 63343 mgibler@fknursery.com

FOSTER BROTHERS WOOD PRODUCTS, INC.

PO Box 249 Auxvasse, MO 65231 christine@fostebros.com

FROG FURNISHINGS

15750 South Keeler Terr. Olathe, KS 66062

Emma.darnell@playcore.com

FRY PARK AND PLAYGROUND

101 E 15th Ave. North Kansas City, MO 64116 (800) 444-9787 jack@fryinc.com

Conference sponsors are noted in purple . Thank you for your support!

GAF STREETBOND

1 Campus Dr. Parsippany, NJ 07054 rick.carlson@gaf.com

GATEWAY DESIGN STUDIO, LLC

100 Chesterfield Business Pkwy., Ste. 200 St. Louis, MO 63005 (314) 703-1800 rpworzer@gatewayds.com

GLMV ARCHITECTURE, INC.

9229 Ward Pkwy. Kansas City, MO 64114 (816) 444-4200 chad.weinand@glmv.com

GRASSWORX - NATURA TURF

315 Linum Ln. St. Louis, MO 63119 tim.petsch@grassworxllc.com

GREAT SOUTHERN RECREATION, LLC

2441 Q Old Fort Pkwy. #462

HASTINGS+CHIVETTA ARCHITECTS

2464 West Port Plaza Dr. St. Louis, MO 63146

marketing@hcarchitects.com

HAWKINS, INC.

2381 Rosegate Roseville, MN 55113 (573) 886-9500

melissa.kopka@hawkinsinc.com

HIVELY, INC.

12022 Blue Valley Pkwy. Overland Park, KS 66213 ryan@gethively.com

IDEAL LANDSCAPE GROUP

6252 Olsen Rd. St. Louis, MO 63129 (314) 892-9500 info@idealandscape.com

IMC OUTDOOR LIVING

2280 Schuetz Rd. St. Louis, MO 63146

J. OLIVER CONSTRUCTION,

LLC

12510 Polfer Rd. Kansas City, KS 66109

jason@joliverconstruction.com

JOHNSON COMMERCIAL FITNESS

1600 Landmark Dr. Cottage Grove, WI 53527 (816) 518-6836

commercialinsidesales@johnsonfit.com

KAI ENTERPRISE

2060 Craigshire Rd. St. Louis MO 63146 (314) 241-8188 mrkt@kai-db.com

KAIZEN LABS

453 S Spring St. Los Angeles CA 90013 shawn@kaizenlabs.co

KAY PARK RECREATION

1301 Pine St. Janesville, IA 50647 800-553-2476 brooke@kaypark.com

KEY APPAREL

Fort Scott, KS 66701 sneedham@keyapparel.com

2024 CONFERENCE EXHIBITORS

KIEFER USA

1225 Tri State Pkwy. Gurnee, IL 60031 ron@kieferusa.com

KOMPAN

605 W Howard Ln. Austin, TX 78753 bremag@kompan.com

LAMP RYNEARSON

9001 State Line Rd. Kansas City, MO 64114 sarah.merza@lamprynearson.com

LANDWORKS STUDIO

102 S Cherry St. Olathe, KS 66061 (913) 780-6707 cait@landworksstudio.com

LIGHTING ASSOCIATES

3216 S Brentwood Blvd.

M&M GOLF CARS, LLC

19873 Hwy 22 Mexico, MO 65265 (573) 581-8188

m.miller@mmgolfcars.com

MARELLY AEDS & SAFETY

717 Crown Industrial Ct. Chesterfield, MO 63005 chipgeorges@marelly.com

MCCONNELL AND ASSOCIATES CORP.

1225 Iron St. North Kansas City, MO 64116 (816) 842-6066 a.gensch@mcconnellassociates.org

MID-AMERICA POOL RENOVATION, INC.

5929 E 154th Terr. Grandview, MO 64030 ryan@poolrenovation.com

Elevating Play with Imagination and Adventure

Soar into the fun of Volo™, a compact playstructure that ignites imagination and adventure for all! The inner ring is fully connected by the innovative LSI Flexx™, our own game-changing steel-reinforced cable netting that o ers a plethora of play sensations from bouncing and climbing to relaxing. Designed for seamless fun, this new Smart Play® playground design allows kids of all abilities to craft their own play journey in a perpetual loop of excitement. To learn more, visit playlsi.com/volo

MID-AMERICA SPORTS CONSTRUCTION

1621 SE Summit St. Lee’s Summit, MO 64081 (816) 260-0769 bwilson@mid-americagolf.com

MIDWEST EQUIPMENT COMPANY

2511 Cassens Dr. Fenton, MO 63026 ktarrillion@taylormidwest.com

MIDWEST POOL MANAGEMENT

156 Weldon Pkwy. Maryland Heights, MO 63043 (314) 432-1313 cwithrow@midwestpool.com

MIRACLE RECREATION

Conference sponsors are noted in purple . Thank you for your support!

MR ASSOCIATES

St. Louis, MO 63144 AVogel@mrassocinc.com

MTI DISTRIBUTING

8901 Springdale Ave. Berkeley, MO 63134 (314) 506-4120 bill.maynard@mtidistributing.com

MUSCO SPORTS LIGHTING

100 1st Ave. W Oskaloosa, IA 52577 (800) 825-6030 brooke.hermsen@musco.com

MYREC.COM RECREATION SOFTWARE

PO Box 16997 Salt Lake City, UT 84116 (620) 303-0256 colleen@myrec.com

NATIONAL RECREATION SYSTEMS

1300-D Airport North Office Park Fort Wayne, IN 46825 katherine.thompson@playcore.com

NAVIGATE BUILDING SOLUTIONS

8419 Manchester Rd. Brentwood, MO 63144 (314) 713-6211 jen@navigatebuildingsolutions.com

NEW AGAIN

1625 Tonganoxie Rd.

Tonganoxie, KS 66086 (913) 416-8857

raquel.newagain@gmail.com

NEXT GENERATION RECREATION

172 NE 72nd St. Gladstone, MO 64118 (866) 698-4672

chuck@nextgenrec.com

NUTOYS LEISURE PRODUCTS, INC. / LANDSCAPE STRUCTURES

10560 W Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 (314) 740-7103 lauras@nutoys4fun.com

OATES ASSOCIATES, INC.

100 Lanter Ct. Collinsville, IL 62234 tom.cissell@oatesassociates.com

OLD TIME SERVICE COMPANY

25 Taylor Ln. Perryville, MO 63775 (314) 435-7599 ben@oldtimeservicingcompany.com

OLSSON STUDIO

1814 Main Kansas City, MO 64108 kschulz@olsson.com

PADDOCK POOL EQUIPMENT

555 Paddock Pkwy. Rock Hill, SC 29730 daniel.gaeckle@paddockindustries.com

PINNACLE SPORTS

219 Fairfax Ave. Hopkinsville, KY 42240 tab@pinnacleindoor.com

PIONEER ATHLETICS

4529 Industrial Pkwy. Cleveland, OH 44135 bmisiak@pioneerathletics.com

PLANNING DESIGN STUDIO

2816 Sutton Blvd., Ste. 1 St. Louis, MO 63143 (314) 241-3600 andrewfranke@planningdesignstudio.com

PLAY & PARK STRUCTURES

303 Bass St. Park Hills, MO 63601 (573) 631-1968 scasada@playandpark.com

PLAY DESIGN SCAPES

352 Cedar Lane Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 (224) 324-4597 gina@playdesignscapes.com

2024 CONFERENCE EXHIBITORS

PLAYSCAPE RECREATION

PO Box 146 Yates Center, KS 66783 (620) 625-3800

kate@playscaperecreation.com

PUBLIC RESTROOM COMPANY

2587 Business Pkwy. Minden, CA 89423 marketing@publicrestroomcompany.com

RDG PLANNING & DESIGN

301 Grand Ave. Des Moines, IA 50309 (515) 288-3141 cmcdermott@rdgusa.com

RECDESK SOFTWARE

300 Plaza Middlesex Middletown, CT 06457 nick.fuentes@recdesk.com

ROZYCKI LIGHTING

2388 Schuetz Rd. St. Louis, MO 63146 markr@rozyckilighting.com

S. M. WILSON & CO.

2185 Hampton Ave. St. Louis MO 63139

jenn.hasamear@smwilson.com

SAFE SLIDE RESTORATION

PO Box 102 Farmington, MO 63640 info@safeslides.com

SAPP DESIGN ARCHITECTS

3750 S Fremont Ave. Springfield, MO 65804 (417) 877-9600 bsapp@sdaarchitects.com

SFS ARCHITECTURE

2100 Central St. Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 474-1397 bgarvey@sfsarch.com

SITEONE LANDSCAPE SUPPLY

300 Colonial Center Pkwy. Roswell, GA 30076 (816) 594-4358 BMayes@siteone.com

SPLASHTACULAR

401 N East St. Paola, KS 66071

trinity@splashtacular.com

SPORT COURT ST. LOUIS

343 Great Oaks Dr. Labadie, MO 63055 (314) 422-4141 dionna@sportcourtstlouis.com

SPRINGFIELD ASA/SPRINGFIELD

GREENE COUNTY

1923 N Weller Springfield, MO 65803 (417) 350-3808

springfieldasasoftball@gmail.com

ST. CHARLES COUNTY PARKS 201 N Second St., Ste. 510 St. Charles, MO 63301 (636) 949-7535 rgraham@sccmo.org

ST. CHARLES PARKS & RECREATION BOARD

1900 W Randolph St. Charles, MO 63301 (636) 949-3372

maralee.britton@stcharlesparks.com

Conference sponsors are noted in purple . Thank you for your support!

STARGUARD ELITE/STARFISH SWIMMING

13506 Summerport Village Pkwy. Windermere, FL 34786 sj.idel@starguardelite.com

SUNBELT RENTALS

1300 Charlestown Industrial Dr. St. Charles, MO 63303 nick.duffin@sunbeltrentals.com

SWT DESIGN

7722 Big Bend Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63119 (314) 644-5700 info@swtdesign.com

SYDENSTRICKER NOBBE PARTNERS

3575 Veterans Memorial Pkwy. St. Charles, MO 63303 nfleak@snpartners.com

SYNLAWN

1051 Century Dr. Lee’s Summit, MO 64081 Jennifer.Zamecnik@synlawn.com

SYSTEM SERVICES LLCIPADDLEPORT

1642 Oakhurst Rd.

Albert Lea, MN 56007-1565 BillLHowe@gmail.com

TERRAIN MAGAZINE

3120 Locust St. St. Louis, MO 63103 636-633-1816

steve@terrain-mag.com

THE WEB FLEX

1415 N St. Louis Batesville, AR 72501 elliott@thewebflex.com

TNEMEC COMPANY

2003 Fayette St. N Kansas City, MO 64116 mcleem@tnemec.com

TWM, INC.

3701 S. Lindbergh Blvd, Ste. 100

St. Louis, MO 63127 (314) 241-6300

rcerniglia@twm-inc.com

USTA MISSOURI VALLEY

4305 E 307th Cleveland, MO 64734 (913) 967-9926

jterpkosh@movalley.usta.com

VIREO, LLC

414 Oak St., Ste 101 Kansas City, MO 64106 (816) 777-3004

steve@bevireo.com

WATER’S EDGE AQUATIC DESIGN

1153 Southwest Blvd., Ste. 202 Kansas City, KS 66103 (913) 438-4338 info@wedesignpools.com

WEIS DESIGN GROUP, INC.

16286 Westwoods Business Park Dr.

Ellisville, MO 63021 (636) 207-0832

lweis-smith@weisdesigngroup.com

WESTPORT POOLS

156 Weldon Pkwy. St. Louis, MO 63043 (314) 432-1801

adenningmann@westportpools.com

WHEELER BRIDGE

9531 W. 78th St., Ste. 100 Eden Prairie, MN 55344 tlincoln@wheeler1892.com

WORLDS OF FUN

4545 Worlds of Fun Ave. Kansas City, MO 64161 (816) 454-4545 braedenadelong@worldsoffun.com

XTREME GREEN

15 Timber Meadows Pl. Edwardsville, IL 62025 sandra@xgreensynthetic.com

YOUTH SCOREBOARDS

13420 Pennsylvania Ct. Kansas City, MO 64145 greg@youthscoreboards.com

2024 CONFERENCE EXHIBITORS

SEARCH BY CATERGORY LISTING

2024 MPRA members are listed in PURPLE.

If your department is looking for any the following services, MPRA recommends contacting our 2024 exhibitors and members listed below. See pages 22-29 for current contact information. MPRA members can find an expanded directory online in the Info Hub at mopark.org.

AQUATICS

Arlan Co.

Branco Enterprises Inc.

Capri Pools & Aquatics

Counsilman-Hunsaker

Lamp Rynearson

Midwest Pool Management

New Again

Pinnacle Sports

Playscape Recreation

RecDesk Software

Sapp Design Architects

Starguard ELITE/Starfish Swimming

Tnemec Company

Water’s Edge Aquatic Design

Westport Pools

ARCHITECT/DESIGN

American Ramp Company

BBN Architects

Bond Architects,Inc.

Counsilman-Hunsaker

Farnsworth Group

Gateway Design Studio, LLC

GLMV Architecture, Inc.

Hastings+Chivetta Architects

KAI Enterprise

MR Associates

Olsson Studio

Pinnacle Sports

RDG Planning & Design

Sapp Design Architects

SFS Architecture

Westport Pools

ATHLETIC EQUIPMENT

9 Square in the Air

Advanced Exercise / Wellness Flooring

All Inclusive Rec

Athco, LLC / Landscape Structures

Challenger Sports & Teamwear

Foremost Fitness Group LLC

J. Oliver Construction, LLC

Johnson Commercial Fitness

Miracle Recreation Playground Company

Next Generation Recreation

Play Design Scapes

Sport Court St. Louis

System Services LLC - iPaddlePort

USTA Missouri Valley

CONSTRUCTION

A.T.G.-Ram Industries, LLC

American Ramp Company

Branco Enterprises Inc.

Byrne & Jones Construction

Continental Pools, Inc.

Extreme Electrical Contractors, LLC

GLMV Architecture, Inc.

Ideal Landscape Group

J. Oliver Construction, LLC

KAI Enterprise

McConnell and Associates Corp.

Mid-America Pool Renovation, Inc.

MR Associates

Musco Sports Lighting

Navigate Building Solutions

Pinnacle Sports

S. M. Wilson & Co.

Safe Slide Restoration

Sunbelt Rentals

Westport Pools

ENGINEERING/SURVEYING

Allstate Consultants, LLC

Bacon Farmer Workman Engineering & Testing

Byrne & Jones Construction

Counsilman-Hunsaker

Farnsworth Group

GLMV Architecture, Inc.

Intuition & Logic Engineering, Inc.

KAI Enterprise

Lamp Rynearson

MR Associates

Olsson Studio

SWT Design

TWM, Inc.

Weis Design Group, Inc.

ENTERTAINMENT

Old Time Service Company

Worlds of Fun

ESPORTS

Hively, Inc.

FITNESS/EXERCISE

9 Square in the Air

Advanced Exercise / Wellness Flooring

American Ramp Company

Challenger Sports & Teamwear

Cunningham Recreation

Great Southern Recreation, LLC

Hively, Inc.

J. Oliver Construction, LLC

Johnson Commercial Fitness

Kompan

Miracle Recreation Playground Company

Next Generation Recreation

NuToys Leisure Products, Inc. / Landscape

Structures

Pinnacle Sports

Play Design Scapes

Sport Court St. Louis

System Services LLC - iPaddlePort

Terrain Magazine

USTA Missouri Valley

INDUSTRIAL PAINTING

Bazan Painting Co.

Creative Polymers

LANDSCAPE/NURSERY

Advanced Turf Solutions

Forrest Keeling Nursery

Foster Brothers Wood Products, Inc.

GrassWorx - Natura Turf

Ideal Landscape Group

Sunbelt Rentals

Xtreme Green

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE

Bacon Farmer Workman Engineering & Testing

BBN Architects

Farnsworth Group

GLMV Architecture, Inc.

GrassWorx - Natura Turf

IMC Outdoor Living

Landworks Studio

Olsson Studio

RDG Planning & Design

Sapp Design Architects

SWT Design

Vireo, LLC

LAWN CARE EQUIPMENT

Advanced Turf Solutions

Carswell OEI

MTI Distributing

Sunbelt Rentals

Sydenstricker Nobbe Partners

LIGHTING

Extreme Electrical Contractors, LLC

Musco Sports Lighting

RDG Planning & Design

Rozycki Lighting

Sunbelt Rentals

MINORITY OWNED BUSINESS

KAI Enterprise

NuToys Leisure Products, Inc. / Landscape

Structures

OPERATIONS/CONSULTING

Ballard*King & Associates

CleanRiver Recycling Solutions

Counsilman-Hunsaker

Dick Horton Parks and Recreation Consulting

Vermont Systems

Navigate Building Solutions

Pinnacle Sports

Starguard ELITE/Starfish Swimming

Westport Pools

OTHER

Missouri State Parks

Elliott Data Systems, Inc

Hively, Inc.

Kaizen Labs

Marelly AEDs & Safety

Midwest Equipment Company

MyRec.com Recreation Software

Navigate Building Solutions

Play Design Scapes

Public Restroom Company

RecDesk Software

Safe Slide Restoration

St. Charles County Parks

St. Charles Parks & Recreation Board

Terrain Magazine

Wheeler Bridge

PET WASTE MANAGEMENT

BagSpot Pet Waste Solutions

GrassWorx - Natura Turf

Kay Park Recreation

Miracle Recreation Playground Company

Next Generation Recreation

Play Design Scapes

PICNIC TABLES/BENCHES

All Inclusive Rec

Athco, LLC / Landscape Structures

Champlin Tire Recycling, Inc.

Cunningham Recreation

Frog Furnishings

Fry Park and Playground

Great Southern Recreation, LLC

J. Oliver Construction, LLC

Kay Park Recreation

Miracle Recreation Playground Company

New Again

Next Generation Recreation

NuToys Leisure Products, Inc. / Landscape

Structures

Play Design Scapes

PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT

9 Square in the Air

ABcreative, Inc.

All Inclusive Rec

American Ramp Company

Athco, LLC / Landscape Structures

Byrne & Jones Construction

Cunningham Recreation

EZ Dock

Foster Brothers Wood Products, Inc.

Fry Park and Playground

GrassWorx - Natura Turf

Great Southern Recreation, LLC

Hall Turf LLC

J. Oliver Construction, LLC

Kompan

Miracle Recreation Playground Company

New Again

Next Generation Recreation

NuToys Leisure Products, Inc. / Landscape

Structures

Play & Park Structures

Play Design Scapes

Sapp Design Architects

Sport Court St. Louis

POLLINATOR/TURF

Advanced Turf Solutions

Forrest Keeling Nursery

Hall Turf LLC

SIGNS/SCOREBOARDS

Athco, LLC / Landscape Structures

Byrne & Jones Construction

Engraphix Architectural Signage, Inc.

Next Generation Recreation

Youth Scoreboards

SHADE/SHELTER

Advanced Exercise / Wellness Flooring

All Inclusive Rec

Athco, LLC / Landscape Structures

Byrne & Jones Construction

Cunningham Recreation

Fry Park and Playground

Great Southern Recreation, LLC

Ideal Landscape Group

J. Oliver Construction, LLC

Kay Park Recreation

Miracle Recreation Playground Company

Next Generation Recreation

NuToys Leisure Products, Inc. / Landscape

Structures

Play & Park Structures

Play Design Scapes

Sapp Design Architects

SPLASHPADS

All Inclusive Rec

Athco, LLC / Landscape Structures

Byrne & Jones Construction

Capri Pools & Aquatics

Creative Polymers

Cunningham Recreation

Fry Park and Playground

Great Southern Recreation, LLC

Ideal Landscape Group

Mid-America Pool Renovation, Inc.

NuToys Leisure Products, Inc. / Landscape

Structures

Play Design Scapes

Safe Slide Restoration

Tnemec Company

Vireo, LLC

Westport Pools

SPORTS PLANNING/ CONSULTING

American Ramp Company

Byrne & Jones Construction

Dick Horton Parks and Recreation Consulting

GLMV Architecture, Inc.

Hively, Inc.

McConnell and Associates Corp.

Miracle Recreation Playground Company

Pinnacle Sports

RDG Planning & Design

USTA Missouri Valley

Vireo, LLC

SURFACING/FLOORING

Advanced Exercise / Wellness Flooring

All Inclusive Rec

Byrne & Jones Construction

Creative Polymers

Cunningham Recreation

Ecoturf Surfacing

Fry Park and Playground

GAF StreetBond

Ideal Landscape Group

IMC Outdoor Living

J. Oliver Construction, LLC

Miracle Recreation Playground Company

Next Generation Recreation

NuToys Leisure Products, Inc. / Landscape

Structures

Play & Park Structures

Play Design Scapes

Safe Slide Restoration

Sport Court St. Louis

Tnemec Company

Westport Pools

WATER TREATMENT

Hawkins, Inc.

Olsson Studio

Tnemec Company

Westport Pools

WOMEN OWNED BUSINESS

Bond Architects,Inc.

Forrest Keeling Nursery

Great Southern Recreation, LLC

Next Generation Recreation

NuToys Leisure Products, Inc. / Landscape

Structures

Play Design Scapes

Vireo, LLC

Weis Design Group, Inc.

A New Place for Love Locks in Hannibal

A double heart made of steel has been installed at Lover’s Leap as a way to keep a romantic tradition from ruining the fence at the park. Hannibal Parks and Recreation employees mounted the 10 foot-by-10-foot structure on a concrete pad at the 5-acre park located on a bluff above Route 79.

In recent years, locks have been placed on the fence and have been repeatedly removed by parks and recreation officials to keep the fence from being pulled down. Park Board members asked Central Services Director, Andy Dorian, to construct a structure for the locks as an

alternative to the fence. Hannibal Machine built the structure for $3,200.

A love lock or love padlock is a padlock that couples lock to a bridge, fence, gate, monument, or similar public fixture to symbolize their love. The double heart at Lover’s Leap includes a disposal box for the keys to keep the keys from polluting the ground or river.

The locks on the fence will be cut off by early next year.

Accessible Sled Grant for Lee’s Summit Parks and Recreation

Submitted by Melissa Pfannenstiel, Lee’s Summit Parks and Recreation

In February 2024, Lee’s Summit Parks and Recreation (LSPR) received $2,881.94 in funding to purchase three accessible ice sleds for Summit Ice located at Lea McKeighan Park North. The sleds are USA Disabled Hockey-approved and are available for pond hockey or public skating. LSPR would like to thank our generous donor, Southern Africa Volunteer Enterprise, Inc. (SAVE), for providing the funds for this purchase.

SAVE is a privately funded family organization that has funded hundreds of projects since 2000. SAVE funds projects that have an impact on vulnerable populations in the United States and around the world.

SAVE especially provides funding for projects related to people with disabilities, as well as students. They have funded the building of accessible playgrounds, improvements to schools, and events for people with disabilities, just to name a few projects funded throughout the years.

The accessible sleds are available upon request when Summit Ice opens for the winter season in November 2024.

Moberly’s Rothwell Park Mini Train

Submitted by Jenna Pagliai, Moberly Parks and Recreation

Nestled in the 467-acre beautiful Rothwell Park in Moberly, the Moberly Mini Train chugs along a one-mile adventure through colorful gardens, creative wood carvings, crosses a bridge and trestles, and provides a scenic view of the park. The Magic City Line has become the main attraction for Moberly’s Great Train Adventure with around 6,000 paid riders per year and growing!

This miniature railroad represents the historic Wabash and Norfolk and Western Railroads and is run by the Moberly Friends of the Park Foundation, a nonprofit organization. The trains, rails, and gardens were built by volunteers of the Rothwell Park Railroad, often working with donated materials. This group of volunteers are very much appreciated for their countless hours and efforts of operating and maintaining the miniature railroad. The railroad operates through the sales of rides or group events, donations, and grants.

The train runs every Sunday afternoon from May through October, weather permitting. The train takes passengers of all ages and includes special seats for the elderly and disabled. The mini train also offers group rides for birthday parties, reunions, etc. The train provides a great adventure for all!

The mini train truly is a one-of-a-kind adventure! A train ride is the perfect way to start a visit to Rothwell Park, promising something for everyone – playgrounds, a dog park, trails for hiking, biking, and walking, a disc golf course, aquatic center, an archery range, a recreational campground, rentable facilities for events, and so much more!

100 YEARS AND COUNTING

Submitted by Tisha Holden, Missouri State Parks

2024 marks the 50th anniversary of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. It also marks the 100th anniversary of two of their state parks – Bennett Spring near Lebanon, MO, and Mark Twain near Florida, MO. While mentioning the anniversary of these two, don't forget about the J. Huston Tavern at Arrow Rock State Historic Site. In 1917, the Missouri State Parks system was created, but no properties were added to the system until September 1923.

J. Huston Tavern at Arrow Rock State Historic Site

A landmark of hospitality for more than a century, the J. Huston Tavern started with Joseph Huston in 1834. As the owners changed, the tavern went through a progression of names, finally reverting to the J. Huston Tavern that it is known as today. The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) had a keen interest in the tavern because of its location on the Santa Fe Trail. At the urging of the DAR, the state of Missouri purchased the J. Huston Tavern for $5000 and named the DAR as “custodians” of the building.

Promoted as a “motor mecca” for travelers on the new national highway system, not only was the tavern the first building Missouri preserved with public funds, but it was also the first addition to the state parks system and could rightly be called the birthplace of heritage tourism. Now visitors can stop in the museums, take in a show, shop at the stores, hike the trails, and get a taste of history at the tavern.

Bennett Spring State Park

The valley near Lebanon, MO, created a place of peace and recreation that has welcomed generations of anglers year after year. One of Missouri’s earliest parks, Bennett Spring State Park, continues to attract families of fishermen and nature lovers seeking to make new memories.

More than 100 million gallons of cool water gush from Bennett Spring and form a spring branch that is stocked daily with rainbow trout. Bennett Spring and its valley attracted settlers who found the spring-fed streams as ideal locations for their grist and flour mills, and the wilderness around the stream was perfect for hunting.

In 1924, the state purchased the spring and part of the surrounding area, creating one of the first state parks. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps contributed much of the present-day character of the park, which can be seen today in the cabins, shelter house, roads, trails, dining lodge, and the arched bridge across the spring branch.

Come help commemorate the anniversary at a celebration scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 5 at the park, starting at 10 a.m.

Mark Twain State Park

Mark Twain State Park is nestled in the Salt River Hills in north-central Missouri. Through the efforts of Mark Twain Memorial Park Association, the park was created in honor of Samuel L. Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, who was born in the nearby village of Florida. The association raised more than $10,000 to purchase 100 acres of land overlooking the Salt River. Additional land was purchased by the state, and Mark Twain State Park was established in 1924. It is the third-oldest state park in Missouri and the first established north of the Missouri River.

With the construction of the Clarence Cannon Dam, the park changed dramatically with the creation of Mark Twain Lake. Construction of the dam began in 1966 and was completed in 1983. The 18,000-acre lake provides for the flood control of the Salt River valley, as well as power generation and recreational opportunities.

Nothing says “Missouri literature” quite like Mark Twain. While visiting Mark Twain State Park, guests should take time to also visit the Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site, where the two-room rented cabin where Clemens was born is on display. Guests can also see the handwritten manuscript of “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.” The manuscript had been on display since the site received it in 1960, and the team became concerned about the long-term effect that lighting was having on it.

Thanks to the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office, conservators did repairs on this state treasure at no charge. Since the repairs were finished, the manuscript has been returned to the site and is housed in a new temperature, light, and humidity controlled display case to help prolong the manuscript’s life.

Mark Twain State Park plans to hold anniversary celebrations throughout the year. More information can be found at mostateparks.com.

New Disc Golf at MOZINGO

Mozingo Lake Recreation Park is excited to announce that their new disc golf course is officially complete as of November 2023. The 18-hole course is the newest recreational addition to the park and has over 5,500 feet of holes going through wooded areas and along the edge of the lake. Meant for all ages and skill levels, it offers a wide range of challenges and ways to play. Mozingo Lake plans to host tournaments and leagues in the future creating another way for visitors to enjoy the park.

Mozingo’s disc golf course project began in July of 2022 when city staff and local disc golf enthusiasts met with Eric McCabe, a former Professional Disc Golf Association champion and disc golf course designer. Although it has been a process longer than hoped, Mozingo is excited to add this disc golf course to their long list of outdoor recreational opportunities for guests to experience.

Submitted by Ryan Shultz, Mozingo Lake Recreation Park, Maryville, MO

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A New Era of Play: How playground design trends

are shaping children's experiences

By Scott Roschi, Creative Director, Landscape Structures Inc.

Parents taking their little ones to the playground after years of absence may find themselves amazed by the transformation. Modern playgrounds boast massive equipment with towering structures, far beyond what they remember from their own childhood. Vibrant and eye-catching colors immediately capture their attention. Even more, the abstract designs and Ninja Warrior-inspired activity spaces overshadow the once-familiar play structures of the past.

However, today's playgrounds go beyond mere visual enhancements. They are the result of meticulous planning, thoughtful design, and scientific considerations. These playgrounds are now tailored to cater to different age groups and abilities, encouraging innovative and diverse forms of play. Emphasizing sustainability, the evolution of playgrounds has become a source of delight for communities, providing them with well-designed and inclusive play spaces for all.

A Greater Focus on How Kids See Playgrounds

Colors and shapes can make playgrounds visually appealing and unique. But a strategic use of these design elements can influence how and where kids play.

Colors play a significant role in setting the mood and influencing decisions, as seen in the fast-food industry's use of red and yellow to stimulate hunger and comfort. Similarly, playgrounds employ color psychology, using bright, saturated colors to attract children ages 2 to 5 to equipment designed for their smaller bodies, while older kids are drawn to more natural, less saturated color palettes.

In addition to colors, shapes also play a crucial role in guiding children's movements on the playground. Modern playgrounds stand out with towering structures, reaching heights of 20 to 30 feet, which captivate children even from a distance. As kids approach these tall structures, they assess their adventurous spirit, with younger ones opting for easier climbing routes like inside belt climbers, and older more physically developed children choosing challenging paths, like scaling cargo nets along the outside of the towers. This deliberate use of shapes entices and challenges children, fostering engaging and dynamic play experiences.

A Shift to User-Defined Play

Recognizing children's independent nature, playgrounds increasingly facilitate self-directed play. While defined paths of play guide children

through different activities, there’s been a shift in playground designs to support non-prescriptive or abstract play—where kids get to oversee their own path. These spaces use open and non-linear design to encourage kids to move around and play however they want.

Removing confining spaces allows children to improvise and choose their preferred play styles. Open structures provide more opportunities for imaginative play and game creation, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills. Incorporating features like seekand-find elements within the playground design further encourages learning through self-initiated play.

More Communal Spaces

Today's playgrounds are becoming increasingly inclusive and community-oriented, addressing the needs of a diverse range of children. Playgrounds are being more intentionally designed for people with a wide range of disabilities, where small adjustments, such as using contrasting colors or avoiding specific color combinations, can significantly improve accessibility for children who are blind/low vision/colorblind. These thoughtful design choices empower kids with vision disabilities to confidently engage with different playground structures and enjoy a fulfilling play experience.

Furthermore, the push for eco-friendly parks and playgrounds has led to innovative approaches in playground design. Environmental impacts are being considered, with some park environments incorporating integrated stormwater management systems to handle water runoff. Additionally, designers are embracing nature by integrating playgrounds around existing trees and natural elements, preserving the local environment while offering children the opportunity to enjoy hillside slides and climbers that complement the surroundings. Manufacturers are also prioritizing sustainability by using materials like recycled materials for playground construction and furnishings.

Fun for All

There’s no telling what playgrounds will look like when today’s kids visit them as adults. But as long as designers, landscape architects, and planners continue to focus on the needs of all kids, one thing is for sure—the play that’s happening on those playgrounds will only continue to be more diverse, accessible, and beneficial for all.

New Turf Coming to Branson

Submitted by Katie Leuthauser, Branson Parks and Recreation

The Branson Parks and Recreation Department obtained a substantial ARPA Grant to modernize its four ballfields and replace them with cutting-edge turf fields in 2024. In addition to the turf fields, the upgrades will include LED lighting, sunshades, bullpens, digital scoreboards, and more. This initiative is expected to not only attract more out-of-town tournaments and generate additional revenue but also offer the local community a stunning, eco-friendly ballfield complex for baseball and softball activities throughout the year. A few benefits of using turn-on ballfields are that there are fewer rainouts, consistent playing conditions, and of course, no more dirt stains.

Introducing Volo™, a play-packed structure that soars with fun for everyone. Game-changing LSI Flexx™ steel-reinforced cable netting keeps the inner ring of play fully connected, offering kids with a range of abilities a ton of play sensations from relaxing to bouncing to climbing. From there, kids can choose their own adventure in the perpetually flowing loop of climbing and sliding fun. Fast or slow, high or low, full energy or low key, Volo empowers kids to define their unique playstyle through multiple layers of fun. Welcome