CPRA Colorado Byline - Winter 2020

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cpra-web.org | Winter 2020

Tips for Creating Fitness & Recreation Centers in Colorado

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• MEET YOUR CPRA BOARD • MEAN(INGFUL) TWEETS: PUBLIC LANDS EDITION • NIGHT OF THE STARS GIVES COLORADO YOUTH A CHANCE TO SHOWCASE TALENTS • HOW PARKS AND RECREATION PROFESSIONALS CAN BE A CHAMPION FOR COLORADO’S OUTDOOR PARTNERSHIP

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2 • Colorado Byline | Winter 2020

CONTENTS

10 Photo ©Advanced Exercise

COLORADO PARKS & RECREATION ASSOCIATION PO BOX 1037, Wheat Ridge, CO 80034 [P] 303-231-0943 [F] 303-237-9750 cpra@cpra-web.org www.cpra-web.org Allison Kincaid Executive Director allisonk@cpra-web.org Ashley Perillo Professional Development Program Manager ashleyp@cpra-web.org

FEATURES 10 6 Tips for Creating Fitness and Recreation Centers in Communities By Todd Pernsteiner, Pernsteiner Creative Group, and CPRA Industry Partner members 16 Night of the Stars Gives Colorado Youth a Chance to Showcase Talents By Zach Venn 18 GameTime Provides Up to $1.5 Million on Matching Funds for Colorado Parks 20 Mean(inful) Tweets: Public Lands Edition

By Shaina Young

DEPARTMENTS 4

Get to Know Your CRPA Board and New Staff Member

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Industry Partner Spotlight: NCSI

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Member Spotlight: Kris Kron

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Parks & Recreation Meeting the Challenge

15

Helping Communities Get Active

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2020 Annual Conference Call for Sessions

COLUMN 6

reating a Win-Win Relationship C

By Jillian Strogis, Colorado Parks & Recreation Association

Julie Hopko Professional Development Program Coordinator julieh@cpra-web.org Jillian Strogis Membership & Communications Coordinator jillians@cpra-web.org

Colorado Byline is the official member magazine of CPRA, Colorado Parks & Recreation Association. CPRA is a dynamic, proactive organization that creates healthy residents and livable communities by promoting excellence in parks and recreation.

2019-2020 CPRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT Justin Perdue City of Greeley 970-350-9548 justin.perdue@greeleygov.com

PRESIDENT-ELECT Hillary Roemersberger Apex Park & Recreation District 720-898-3412 hillaryr@apexprd.org SECRETARY/TREASURER

ADVERTISER INDEX Delta Timber – eric@deltatimber.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC Commercial Fitness Solutions – www.commercialfitness.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Advanced Exercise – www.advancedexercise.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Star Playgrounds – www.starplaygrounds.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Pilot Rock – Pilotrock.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Ground Solutions / Bedrock Slingers – www.groundsolutionsco.com . . . . . 19 Wember – www.wemberinc.com. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Gyms for Dogs – sales@GymsForDogs.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 CPRA Byline – todd@pernsteiner.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC

Colorado Byline is the quarterly publication of Colorado Parks & Recreation Association (CPRA) and is provided as a benefit to members. Submit your article to www.cpra-web.org/page/ bylinearticlesub under publication resources. Submissions are edited and published as space allows. Letters to the editor, suggestions, comments and encouragement are welcome. Expressed opinions and statements in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinions of the CPRA board of directors or its

Molly Elder City of Loveland 970-962-2728 molly.elder@cityofloveland.org AT-LARGE Rachel Wysuph Town of Erie 303-926-2791 rwysuph@erieco.gov AT-LARGE Clay Shuck City and County of Broomfield 303-460-6903 cshuck@broomfield.org

Mission: Promote the parks and recreation profession and its growth throughout the State of Colorado.

Vision: A dynamic, proactive organization that creates healthy residents and livable communities by promoting excellence in parks and recreation.

AT-LARGE Leah Huffer-Solomon Denver Parks & Recreation 720-865-0825 leah.huffer@denvergov.org

2020 CPRA ADVISORY COUNCIL AAPS Cindy Hickman Town of Erie 303-926-2795 chickman@erieco.gov AQUATICS Philip Henry City of Boulder 303-413-7478 henryp@bouldercolorado.gov CARA Amanda Cesar City of Pueblo 719-553-2806 acesar@pueblo.us DIRECTORS Janet Bartnik Mountain Recreation 970-688-7335 jbartnik@mountainrec.org FACILITY MANAGEMENT Nolan Thill Town of Parker 303-805-3286 nthill@parkeronline.org FITNESS Glen Batista Denver Parks & Recreation 720-865-0672 glen.batista@denvergov.org PARKS Tony Jaramillo City of Commerce City 303-289-8166 tjaramillo@c3gov.com PLAaY Sarah Gange City of Loveland 970-962-2467 sarah.gagne@cityofloveland.org TRSC Deni Jacobs Town of Parker 303-805-3208 djacobs@parkeronline.org

PUBLISHER / ADVERTISING: Todd Pernsteiner, Publisher Pernsteiner Creative Group 952-841-1111 todd@pernsteiner.com

GO DIGITAL View this issue online at www.cpra-web.org/page/byline.

Keep up on all things CPRA via Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Colorado Byline | Winter 2020 • 3

COLUMN

Get to Know Your CPRA Board of Directors and New CPRA Staff Compiled by Jillian Strogis, Membership & Communications Coordinator, Colorado Parks & Recreation Association

President, Justin Perdue 1) What was your most inspiring Parks & Recreation Moment in 2019?

Throughout the course of 2019, my son’s affinity for playing in parks and playgrounds has grown tremendously. He absolutely loves to go run around and climb on all playground equipment, goof off in the fields, and splash around in splash parks.

Even further, he loves to do all of this on his own, but enjoys it all even more when he is able to do it with his friends.

Seeing how much he loves to engage in these activities with his friends reinforces how important parks and recreation is for our communities. What all of us in the industry do has a profound effect on quality of life. People are able to play, exercise, socialize, connect and have fun through their participation in our programs and use of our facilities. We make a difference!

2) If you had any Parks & Recreation related ‘Super Power’, what would it be? This one is hard for me. Hillary and Rachel’s powers are probably what I would want, too. If I’m picking something different, I’d have to say that transportation to parks and recreation facilities would be a non-issue. For example, if someone wanted to be at the trailhead, outdoor swimming pool, recreation center, etc., they would magically be transported to that location and be able to participate.

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PresidentElect, Hillary Roemersberger 1) What was your most inspiring Parks & Recreation Moment in 2019? This was another record breaking year for our Association. It gives me great pleasure to see so many professionals in our field taking advantage and seeing the benefit of CPRA! Our sections continue to do amazing work and I look forward to seeing all of the new collaborations in 2020. My most favorite moment of 2019 was attending the Young Professional Showcase at the annual conference. To hear from all these amazing new professionals was nothing short of inspiring. If this showcase is any indication of the future of our field, we are in great hands with the next generation of Parks & Recreation professionals.

2) If you had any Parks & Recreation related ‘Super Power’, what would it be? Although Parks and Recreation has come a long way in promoting the value of what we do, if I could wave a magic wand then every member of our community would fully understand and appreciate the value of our trails, facilities, programs and services. I truly believe we as professionals save lives and the more we can do to spread this message, the better our communities, and the people that reside in them will be! Parks and Recreation IS an essential service and should be valued as vital as such in our communities.

At-Large, Rachel Wysuph 1) What was your most inspiring Parks & Recreation Moment in 2019?

My inspiring moment happened while going for a run on the indoor track of the Erie Community Center. I sent the following email to my staff the next day sharing my experience: Howdy all – Last night I was running around the track when the song The Greatest Show from the movie The Greatest Showman played on my phone. I was about to change it, but then I started to take better notice of everything around me … An older couple was walking the track holding hands. As I ran around them and turned the corner, I saw a bunch of kiddos taking swim lessons, which as you all know is a LIFE SAVING skill. Then as I turned the next corner, I saw a climbing wall class in action, and various patrons playing drop in basketball. As I turned the next corner I noticed one of our personal trainers training what looked like a husband and wife couple. Then as I came full circle, I saw this guy doing some serious box jumps!

So I decided to the let the song play and just enjoy “The Greatest Show” that you all create every day!

I finished my run and as I left the ECC last night, I overheard a little girl loudly bragging to her mom that she went to the deep end of the pool!

2) If you had any Parks & Recreation related ‘Super Power’, what would it be? For my super power, I would snap my fingers and provide access to ANY individual who desires to participate in Parks and Recreation programs and services.

Member AtLarge, Leah Huffer-Solomon 1) What was your most inspiring Parks & Recreation Moment in 2019?

Daily, I get to witness the difference recreation makes in the lives of our patrons of the recreation centers as well as the Adaptive Recreation program. I see participants I have known since they were young and now they are graduating college and starting their own businesses and they let me in their lives.

2) If you had any Parks & Recreation related ‘Super Power’, what would it be? I would be the Pied Piper of bringing people of all ability levels to a Recreation Center to experience the increase in quality of life it can bring to them and their family.

facility was an amazing partnership.

More importantly it is the connection that families have made with that park that really is inspiring and a testament to how the programs and services we offer impact the community.

2) If you had any Parks & Recreation related ‘Super Power’, what would it be? I am really not sure! :-) Seriously, I have never thought of this so I am a little out of my comfort zone and taking a stab at this super power thing. I think for me it would be vulnerability in my leadership style. What does that mean to me…allowing others to step up and lead from where they are. We are far too often hierarchical in our thoughts about leadership. The subject matter experts are the staff doing the job and that is who should feel empowered to make decisions about their work. Maybe I am off on this super power thing, but I would like to think that growing leaders is one of my strengths.

Secretary/ Treasurer, Molly Elder

Member At-Large, Clay Shuck 1) What was your most inspiring Parks & Recreation Moment in 2019?

Wow, it is really hard to just identify one. I think what I would say that the opening of one of our new parks was probably the most inspiring Parks and Recreation moment for me in 2019. The reason was that this park was one of the first true multigenerational parks that I have ever been a part of from the planning to design. The thought and care of all the staff, planners, citizens, and construction personnel that went into the build of that

1) What was your most inspiring Parks & Recreation Moment in 2019?

For me it was definitely the CPRA conference. It was the first time I had ever attended and I had so much fun and met so many amazing people. I cannot wait to go back in 2020!

2) If you had any Parks & Recreation related ‘Super Power’, what would it be? To help our City leadership/City Council better understand the value that parks and recreation brings to the

community – substantial economic stimulus, improved safety, greater sense of community, and of course, health & wellness.

CPRA’s new Membership & Communications Coordinator, Jillian Strogis 1) What was your most inspiring Parks & Recreation Moment in 2019?

Even though I was not a Parks & Recreation Professional in 2019, I have been endlessly inspired by the nature and activities I’ve had the pleasure of partaking in since my move to Colorado in 2018. Joining the team at CPRA feels like the universe finding a way to bring the passions that inspired our move into my professional life, and I could not feel more fortunate. Some of my most meaningful adventures since arriving in beautiful CO have been my first time plein air painting in Staunton State Park, seeing the snow fall on the foothills near my home in Littleton, and sharing my love of this state with my family at RMNP. 2) If you had any Parks & Recreation related ‘Super Power’, what would it be? If I could have a Parks & Rec related super power it would probably be the ability to communicate with nature.

That way I could use all of my wonderful new connections to direct conservation efforts to exactly where they are needed, and find all the best hiking spots.

Welcome new board and staff members. We look forward to what 2020 brings!

Meet the New Byline Publisher Todd Pernsteiner Hi. I’m excited to be coming on as your new CPRA Colorado Byline publisher. My company, Pernsteiner Creative Group, has partnered with CPRA in the past and is excited to be back in this key magazine role.

I will be active in many aspects of publishing Byline, including: editorial planning, story development, advertising sales, graphic design, and printing.

across the country. In addition to producing publications for associations in Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, New York, and South Carolina, our company is also a full-service design and marketing firm. We have created marketing materials for community park and recreation departments throughout the country, as well as product manufacturers.

My company has more than 20 years experience in partnering with the park and recreation market

I look forward to working with you in the future and meeting you at upcoming CPRA events!

Colorado Byline | Winter 2020 • 5

COLUMN

Creating a Win-Win Relationship How the Parks and Recreation Professional Can Be a Champion for Colorado’s Outdoor Partnership

By Jillian Strogis, Membership & Communications Coordinator, Colorado Parks & Recreation Association

“THE COLORADO OUTDOOR PARTNERSHIP believes leaders across the State must collaborate and innovate to ensure our private and public lands and water remain healthy to support our diverse wildlife, outdoor and agricultural heritage, and economic wellbeing.”

As Parks & Recreation professionals we have the profound opportunity and obligation to our state and community to ensure the success of our programs in conjunction with the best interests of the natural resources we cherish.

Much like the nature of CPRA, the CO-OP is yet another facet of our interconnected purpose. As we take advantage of the benefits of our network, Colorado can benefit from our collective efforts.

Collaborative conservation efforts rely on unity in the cause. We have incredible power for change as a unit, using our combined efforts towards our common goals. However, it is important to remember that any of our large scale accomplishments are made possible by the individual efforts we make ourselves. Your contribution matters. The whole is only ever as good as the sum of its parts.

The Colorado Outdoor Partnership recently released a collection of key ways that our acts of participation in this collaboration can transform the future of recreation and conservation.

Here are some examples of what we can do in our day to day to contribute to the principles and directives of the CO-OP and our responsibility to protect the state we love.

3 KEY WAYS YOU CAN MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR PERSONAL IMPACT: 1. Keep collaboration in mind with every task you take on.

“It’s important that we’re often thinking about mutually reinforcing activities. How might individual programs and actions connect and weave together in ways that you had not thought of before?”

Even the smallest gathering or activity has the potential to ripple throughout our field. Ask for support and connection for every opportunity so that it may spread to its fullest potential.

2. Maintain consistent and open communication. “Do not underestimate the power of the communication between members.”

Keep the conversation going strong!

The more voices we have, the louder the echo. Learn something interesting?

Share it! Social media, networking opportunities, CPRA’s Connected Community and other platforms can be used as springboards for inspiration, ideas, continued education, advocacy and awareness.

3. Stay curious. “The CO-OP is an incubator, think tank, and catalyst.”

The more we educate ourselves and each other, the more likely we are to find inspiration from the knowledge we gain, allowing us to develop new practices. Science-based decisions are one of the core concepts of the Colorado Outdoor Principles. As we innovate

together and inspire each other, the better our chances will be of generating opportunities for real impact. Don’t be afraid to test new theories and practices.

One new idea can catalyze a whole movement, and that first step can start with you and your connections.

“Our collaborative commitment means that Colorado will remain a beautiful and healthy place to live, work and play for generations to come.”

Make the commitment every day to be a champion for conservation in the recreation space and we will continue to thrive together into the future.

For more information on the quotes used in this article and the full list of How Your Acts of Participation in the CO-OP are Transformational from The Colorado Outdoor Partnership, visit their website at www.copartnership.org.

As we take advantage of the benefits of our network, Colorado can benefit from our collective efforts.

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How Your Acts of Participation in the CO-OP are Transformational The Colorado Outdoor Partnership is an important alignment of diverse organizations toward common goals. The need to engage broad networks of partners to enact our vision for Colorado is increasing; our competence as a collaborative is a leading-­ edge strategy.

We can go alone and go fast, or we can go together and ensure that Colorado’s people and economy thrive because of our healthy lands, water, wildlife, working farms and ranches, and improved hunting, angling and recreation opportunities for all. Working from our shared values of the Colorado Outdoor Principles, our leadership as an organization grows stronger as we move from the tasks of formation towards our Pathway of transformation.

Here are 6 ways you can help bring about transformation through our collaboration: 1. While your individual organization’s activities are going to focus on different things, it’s important that we’re often thinking about mutually reinforcing activities. Be asking: how might your programs support others’ initiatives? How might individual programs and actions connect and weave together in ways that you had not thought of before? How might you make sure your work is not getting in the way of other CO-­OP member’s progress?

2. Maintain consistent and open communication to build trust, assure mutually reinforcing activities, and enliven our common motivation. Don’t under estimate the power of the communication between members, and the simple act of the CO-­OP coming together quarterly to hear from one another about our individual efforts and perspectives.

3. Ask for the CO-­OPs support on a legislative initiative, a marketing campaign, or the launch of a new program.

We are at our best when we have something concrete to get behind. Across our organizations, we have a wide reach in terms of audience, influence, and impact. Utilize the CO-­OP’s collective power.

4. Look for points of collaboration. For example, consider the landscape of the many statewide educational campaigns: Wilder, Leave No Trace and the Colorado Tourism Office, OREC and the impact of recreation, the Wild Life, and Colorado Proud. How are these campaigns supporting one another? How can we capitalize on all this incredible work?How might these campaigns impact your work?

5. Advocate broadly for our shared 2050 vision and the Colorado Outdoor Principles.

These are powerful, paradigm-­shifting tools for how diverse organizations can work together from common values to create the future we all want for Colorado. Together, let’s build a larger coalition of organizations operating under the Principles and the 2050 Vision.

6. Test ideas and develop best practices.

Along with the Partners in the Outdoors Conference, the CO-­OP is an incredible place to explore solutions, rally support for local projects and strategies that might be scalable state-­ wide, and share stories from the field about what’s working and what’s not. The CO-­OP is an incubator, think tank, and catalyst …use the CO-­OP for its rich thought power and extensive influence.

Colorado Byline | Winter 2020 • 7

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Kris Kron

By Craig Ellingson, City of Longmont

KRIS KRON IS THE RECREATION PROGRAM SUPERVISOR FOR THE CITY OF LONGMONT, he has been with Longmont Parks and Recreation for the last 2 years. Prior to his position in Longmont Kris was a Recreation Supervisor for the City of Lafayette for 15 years.

Kris just concluded his term as the Chair for CARA (Colorado Association for Recreational Athletics). During his time as Chair, Kris was instrumental in the formulation and execution of the CARA Task Force. The Task Force was created by the CPRA Board of Directors to take a detailed look at CARA’s role within CPRA. This important work focused on identifying opportunities for improvement and enhancement within the Section and its contribution to recreational athletics in Colorado. Kris played a strong leadership role in updating the CARA Section Manual of Procedures and invested much time in updating and clarifying the CARA Bylaws.

Kris truly has been a dedicated professional for not only the communities he has worked in but also as a strong advocate for CPRA and CARA. We are very fortunate to have such a dedicated member of the CPRA family!

INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT

National Center for Safety Initiatives (NCSI) NATIONAL CENTER FOR SAFETY INITIATIVES (NCSI) IS A YOUTH SAFETY ADVOCACY GROUP AND LEADING BACKGROUND SCREENING PROVIDER. A SportsEngine, Inc. company, NCSI provides the “Gold Standard” in background screening, serving youth sports organizations, national governing bodies and over 3,000 city and county recreation departments across the country.

8 • Colorado Byline | Winter 2020

NCSI helps organizations easily manage background screenings, stay in compliance and limit liability with an easy-to-manage comprehensive safety program. Through in-depth courthouse research and applicant identity verification, NCSI works tirelessly to ensure that all applicants are thoroughly screened before they work with youth and communities. NCSI is accredited by the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA) and is the

only background check provider endorsed by the National Council of Youth Sports.

For more information, please visit www.NCSISafe.com.

Parks and Recreation Meeting the Challenge: More Partnerships for More Impact The parks and recreation field spans a wide breadth of expertise and focus – more than many other public sector areas.

As our communities continue to evolve, parks and recreation departments and districts are seen as leaders and partners in a growing number of community efforts. As such, parks and recreation professionals are being tapped to help with an even wider range of community challenges and initiatives, while still being expected to provide high quality services and facilities.

• Emergency management needs facility space and connection to the community • Economic and community development sees the benefit of parks, open space and recreation services in attracting businesses and people

• Public health touts access to physical activity and creating a culture of activity among community members

Are you thinking about your next challenge?

• Tourism departments promote access to parks and nature

Imaging your future in parks and recreation (or beyond) and wondering what steps you should take to be prepared?

• Social services departments know that people experiencing homelessness look for safety in parks and facilities • Sustainability efforts often involve nature-based conservation initiatives in parks and energy saving in public facilities More expertise in management and leadership can help you succeed in these new partnerships and your existing work.

As community partners and colleagues continue to recognize the critical value of parks and recreation, University of Colorado Denver can help you grow your public management skill set while earning a relevant national certification.

Looking to learn more about management in special districts and local government?

Wanting to connect more with local government professionals outside of parks and recreation?

Colorado Parks and Recreation Association offers a special memberbenefit tuition rate for the Colorado Certified Public Manager® Program offered by the University of Colorado Denver School of Public Affairs.

See complete program details at www.cpra-web.org/page/CPMDenver

Colorado Byline | Winter 2020 • 9

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Tips for Creating Fitness & Recreation Centers in Colorado

By Todd Pernsteiner, Pernsteiner Creative Group and CPRA Industry Partners

Photo ©Commercial Fitness Solutions

10 • Colorado Byline | Winter 2020

Communities are continually looking for ways to provide healthy opportunities while increasing revenues. Fitness and Recreation Centers achieve both goals.

Here are six tips to help you create and maintain a great facility.

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space the unused area is now a thriving space for small group training and HIIT classes (shown in lower left).

Turn Underutilized Spaces into Profit Centers

A great example of unused outdoor space is at Carmody Recreation Center on the outdoor pool deck (shown lower right).

During their pool remodel they realized they needed some additional structure for the building. This added a sizable open concrete slab just outside the main fitness area. They contacted us to see what the space could be used for to bring the fitness area outdoors. With added cushion flooring over the concrete slab and some bright colored, functional, weather-proof training rigs, the space not only provides an area for outdoor bootcamps and small group training but also adds visual interest to the area.

As recreation center design and use changes over the years, there often become spaces that are underutilized. These can include small corner spaces, under stair areas, awkward large hallways, lounge areas, and even group exercise rooms can not be used to their full potential. One of our passions is to look at an area that is not being used to its’ full potential and design an area that not only makes the space completely usable, but also turns the area into a profit-earning center for the facility.

Some examples of this include Paul Derda Recreation center which had a large lounge area with a television and fireplace. The facility noticed throughout the day that not one patron ever utilized this large space. The fitness and facility managers wanted that space to not only become usable fitness space, but also an area that could help increase their revenue. With the removal of the fireplace, replacing the carpet with rolled rubber flooring, and adding functional equipment that took advantage of the wall space and corner

The answer to all your commercial fitness and planning needs.

800.500.1098 720.479.8200 Phone 720.479.8201 Fax info@commercialfitness.com www.commercialfitness.com

Colorado Byline | Winter 2020 • 11

Group exercise rooms, although accompanied by a group class schedule, tend to get underutilized during the non-peak hours that don’t have a group class instructor scheduled. The best way to be able to utilize the group exercise rooms all hours of the day are to include functional storage equipment that display fitness accessories in an accessible manner that is inviting to patrons such as Bison Ridge Recreation Center (phoro on page 10). Also including a large television or projector screen along with an on-demand fitness class system allows those patrons who are either not able or intimidated to attend a typical group exercise class.

No matter how small or large of an unused space you have in your facility, there is always a way to reimagine the space to fully maximize every square footage and profitability. Get in touch with our facility design experts today for your free consultation!

- Shawn Agnew, National Inside Sales Manager & Education Director, Commercial Fitness Solutions

2 Create a Separation of Diverse Groups #

In times of increased need for flexibility and multi-use spaces to satisfy growing demand, dedicated spaces are becoming the exception rather than the rule.

Designers are challenged to provide spaces that allow for a wide variety of uses and are appropriately sized and located, while still maintaining the privacy some user groups have come to expect. Each facility, its patrons, and goal sets the table for the planning exercise. In the conceptual design phase of your project, make sure to take inventory of these diverse user groups; their times of participation; and the adjacency of the areas they occupy. Make certain that your design professional is creating balance in the consideration of all these factors when assembling the spaces to assure maximum programming capability.

The sensitivity to separation of users goes beyond program spaces and extends into common spaces such as locker rooms, art studios, classrooms, and multi-purpose spaces. Seniors, families, gender-sensitive users, and those with special needs look for increased numbers of private cabanas and gender-neutral locker rooms.

Community/meeting rooms may be adjoined by senior program space to offer areas for low-cost lunches, performing arts, community gatherings, band practice, and card clubs within one space throughout the day. Planning for the needs and uses while maintaining privacy where needed is a fine balance, but when executed with precision creates happy customers and a much-improved bottom line.

- David Sprague, Senior Principal, OLC

Photo ©OLC

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3

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Offer an Accessible, Compelling Experience Create an accessible, compelling experience. This is both a quality and a quantity puzzle. You want current equipment pieces that are infused with touchscreen technology training and entertainment, plus cool functional fitness pieces that people just want to try. Easy to use and high quality are critical, as these pieces get used, a LOT. Once you have the compelling pieces that get people engaged, you should have those pieces in quantity so that people aren’t waiting or frustrated because there’s not enough to go around.

Don’t forget the floor! Performance flooring is your largest piece of equipment – from stretching to functional fitness to group exercise, it’s used by everyone in some way. For shock and noise absorption and overall safety and ergonomics, performance flooring is an often-overlooked necessity.

And, regardless of the size of your space, having a variety of equipment and fitness training options, for all ability levels, is key. You want enough options so that routines can vary, keeping everyone coming back for more. Consider outdoor fitness spaces, too.

- LaRae Marsik, Director of Marketing, Advanced Exercise Photo ©Advanced Exercise

Colorado Byline | Winter 2020 • 13

4 Be Competitive #

Consumers have a wide variety of options when it comes to choosing a fitness facility. When considering a place to workout, they look at a number of factors including: price, safety, equipment, hours, classes and member support. Obviously, you can’t be the best at all things, but see how you can set yourself apart and excel at least three or four of these membership benefits. Don’t be afraid to do some competitive “shopping” in your area as well as in similar-sized communities.

You’ll be able to see what you want to do at your facility, and what you DON’T want at your facility.

5 Keep Equipment #

Well-Maintained Be sure to read your fitness equipment owner’s manuals completely, manuals will include procedures and recommendations on maintenance to be performed.

When replacing parts, ensure that they are from the same manufacturer the machine you are requesting parts for.

By regularly lubricating certain parts of your machine, you decrease friction.

Friction can cause a moving part to overheat and cause significant damage.

Clean the frames of all strength equipment. Ensure that all screws and bolts are tight. Inspect all cables.

6 Develop a Social, #

Member-Friendly Environment One of a community and recreation center’s main goals is to create COMMUNITY! Add spaces that members can gather like a café, outdoor pool, communal work spaces with free wifi, and meeting rooms of various sizes. Some communities have also added supervised child play areas that can double as a place to host birthday parties.

If you are looking to add more outdoor recreatio opportunities, add frisbee golf or a lawn bowling green. The right mix of social opportunities will make members fall in love with your facility and look forward to coming back.

Be sure to check all belts and cables regularly. If you notice and tears or frays, contact a fitness equipment repair company immediately. Find out when to replace your exercise equipment.

- Gloria Cornyn, Commercial Sales, Push Pedal Pull

Photo ©Push Pedal Pull

14 • Colorado Byline | Winter 2020

Keep your equipment clean. Dirt, dust and sweat can damage your machines and interfere with the performance. Make sure to use a cloth with a non-abrasive cleaner to wipe down your equipment.

The area around your machines should also be kept clean. Be sure to clean and vacuum the floor around your equipment and for some equipment, such as treadmills, be sure to vacuum under the motor cover.

Helping Communities Get Active Active People, Healthy Nation is a nationwide campaign from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to get 27 million Americans more physically active.

By Jess Stanton, HEAL Team Intern, Prevention Services Division, Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment

Getting the recommended amount of physical activity is one of the most important things Coloradans can do to increase quality of life, decrease health costs, enhance productivity, and reduce the risk of many chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. The physical activity guidelines for adults include 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity aerobic activity per week.

However, many Coloradans do not meet the guideline and therefore fall short of reaping the benefits that physical activity has to offer. Currently, only 27.4% of high schoolers and 58.7% of adults in Colorado meet the physical activity guidelines.

To meet the Active People, Healthy Nation goal, 465,000 Coloradans must do their part and increase their physical activity. Parks, recreation and public health can work together toward the ambitious goal. The CDC encourages the use of parks and recreation as a way to

increase physical activity. Coloradans who live in communities with safe parks and recreation facilities close to home are more likely to get the recommended amount of physical activity. Access to both indoor and outdoor recreation facilities can help families become more physically active together. Additionally, improving community design and making it easy to walk or bike to everyday destinations will naturally increase physical activity.

Parks and recreation offers a number of different opportunities that help promote physical activity. Look for a variety of onsite classes, organized excursions in the form of hikes or skiing trips and evidence based programming, such as Silver Sneakers and Walk With Ease, which help manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, arthritis and cardiovascular disease.

Parks and recreation centers, individuals, organizations and community champions

can join Active People, Healthy Nation and become part of getting 27 million Americans to become physically active.

An Active People, Healthy Nation design element is available in English and Spanish for download and use on physical activityrelated materials.

Colorado Byline | Winter 2020 • 15

Night of the Stars Gives Colorado Youth a Chance to Showcase Talents Many youth participate for years, even performing in different categories from one year to the next, because they appreciate the experience so much.

NIGHT OF THE STARS BEGAN IN 2006 due to a noticeable deficit in youth talent shows. Cities around Colorado came together to design a show to allow youth to perform their various talents at the local level with winners moving on to compete at the state show. This model has proven successful for the past 13 years, and the CPRA PLAaY Night of the Stars committee is currently planning their local and state shows for early 2020.

Many neighboring cities come together to host their local shows and have between 20-48 acts after holding auditions. Youth compete in vocal, musical, and variety categories. New in 2020, the committee added dance as a category in response to the number of and assortment in the variety category. In addition to dance, variety acts have included comedians, ventriloquists, sand artists, martial artists,

16 • Colorado Byline | Winter 2020

hula hoopers, and baton twirlers (to name a few). It is always great fun to see the talent and diversity of acts that the youth perform.

Many youth participate for years, even performing in different categories from one year to the next, because they appreciate the experience so much. There is great comradery among the performers, and the program fosters new relationships as it provides a venue for them to meet those they might not otherwise cross paths with.

The Night of the Stars committee encourages and supports cities interested in starting their own shows. All are welcome to the committee meetings, to attend local and state shows, and to partner with existing shows. Additionally, the committee has an informational packet, including anticipated budgetary

needs, available for anyone interested in getting more information about participating.

Please contact Nathalie Renfroe, Night of the Stars Committee Chair, at NatRen@lakewood.org for more information.

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GameTime Provides Up to $1.5 Million in Matching Funds for Colorado Parks Funding program developed in partnership with Colorado Parks and Recreation Association will assist with the development of 10 new playgrounds throughout the state GAMETIME IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE FUNDING RECIPIENTS OF THE 2019 COLORADO PARKS AND RECREATION ASSOCIATION STATEWIDE EDUCATION AND FUNDING INITIATIVE. This is the first year for the funding and educational partnership between the CPRA, GameTime, and PlayCore.

In the educational component of the initiative, PlayCore provided CEU-qualified professional development sessions throughout Colorado to share researchbased best practices in playground design and programming. This particular initiative identified strategic partnerships including schools, nonprofits, and surrounding advocates to aid in building stronger communities through the power of play.

For the funding component of the initiative, GameTime made a commitment of up to $1.5 million in matching funds for CPRA agencies who submitted applications for assistance with the development of

18 • Colorado Byline | Winter 2020

playground spaces that encourage best practice designs for active behavior.

“We’re happy to be in Colorado for our first year of professional development events.

By providing our research, connections, and funding in these statewide initiatives, we celebrate our mission of building communities through play and recreation,” said Robert Barron, Senior Vice President at GameTime. “The training workshops provided park and recreation professionals with research and resources to create spaces that are based on best practices.

With that research, CPRA agencies are better equipped to create recreation areas that bring communities together with likeminded professionals and organizations that maximize park usage and encourage children and families to be more active together.”

Each of the playgrounds that are funded by the initiative will be designated as National Demonstration Sites for data collection and will contribute data to highlight best practices and outcomes achieved.

“We know that these 10 new playgrounds are going to make such an impact in each of these communities and we are excited to see all the research that was shared at these educational events put into action,” said Allison Kincaid, CPRA’s Executive Director.

The following are the 2019 recipients and will be recognized at the 2020 Conference: • Loveland Parks and Recreation • North Colorado Health Alliance • Apex Park and Recreation District • The Town of Frisco • City of Wheat Ridge Parks and Recreation • Widefield Parks & Recreation • Town of Erie - Parks and Recreation • Gilpin County Parks & Recreation • City and County of Broomfield • Soaring Heights PK-8 PTO, Inc. For more information, visit gametime.com.

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Colorado Byline | Winter 2020 • 19

Mean(ingful) Tweets: Public Lands Edition As more people turn to social media for their news and entertainment, it’s time for land conservation and government agencies to shape the conversation.

How do you get your news? Check the weather? Plan a weekend getaway? Chances are high it’s directly through an app (or three) and involves your phone.

So why should we expect our park visitors to be any different? In a time where news comes at the speed of Twitter and power is in the palm of our hands, land stewards shouldn’t be afraid to get a little social. Conversations are happening all around us and about us so there’s never been a better time to jump in. Here’s a good place to start…

SOCIAL MEDIA 101 >> KEEP IT CLASSY. Set some ground rules, or even form a Policy, around how you want your agency’s voice and character to come through. This doesn’t mean you have to be stuffy, just remember there are some differences when it comes to a professional account vs. your personal one. Sometimes it can help to personify your channel; are you a retired Park Host, friendly and wise. Maybe a Naturalist, scientific but approachable. Whomever you want to emulate, make sure to pass the Grandma test: if you wouldn’t post it for her, don’t post it at all. >> KEEP PUBLIC EXPECTATIONS IN MIND. If we are to meet our visitors on their terms and through their pathways, office hours don’t usually apply. Be prepared for some late night debate and always have a content expert available to assist with inquiries as they arise.

Set up team phone trees and know your partners. Having a current list of media, first responder, and other land agency handles at the ready is always helpful if you need to tag someone into a conversation during an emergency. Even better, get to know the people behind those channels #IRL* in case you need to contact them offline. *In Real Life

Whomever you want to emulate, make sure to pass the Grandma test: if you wouldn’t post it for her, don’t post it at all.

20 • Colorado Byline | Winter 2020

PROMOTE STEWARDSHIP THROUGH AUTHENTICITY & LEGITIMACY >> EVERY SOCIAL INTERACTION IS AN EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY. Our teams have a reference list of stewardship principles, very similar to Leave No Trace, that guide almost every post.

Sometimes a scenic view can be just that, but we always include a caption or #hashtag about how to keep it beautiful for the next person. And when that nasty note or comment comes through, remind others why your decision or project is important. >> SHARE. Social Media is meant to be social, not just informative. We all love to see behind the scenes and from the experts. Don’ be afraid to snap a picture or live stream something your organization is doing. Be honest and authentic, even if unpolished. Most of us would rather watch a passionate human discuss a topic rather than a canned robot. >> LEVERAGE DIRT TIME. Working for and in these beautiful places often means we have actual boots on the ground!

Allowing staff to participate in your social presence brings in more personality and expertise. Not to mention having more voices will expand audience reach exponentially through cross-communication. At Jeffco Open Space, our Rangers and field staff are encouraged to have their own accounts on behalf of the organization. @JCOSRangers keep people informed first-hand about the #jeffcotrails they patrol, the visitors they encounter, and all the scat in-between. Bark Patrollers and @JCOS_Volunteers even join the conversation. >>HAVE FUN! There’s a reason why cat videos are a go-to favorite. We all need a little more enjoyment in the day and you could be that spark of joy. Help your visitors see the beauty in nature and remind them the value of conserving it.

BONUS ROUND >> DON’T FEED THE TROLLS. When responding to volatile users or illogical comments; best to disengage. We always jump in to correct misinformation but try to stay out of the mudslinging otherwise. >>IN THEIR WORDS. When possible, consider using visitor submitted content to drive conversations or illustrate common misconceptions.

Controversial topics are better digested in peerto-peer formats instead of us-them finger waging.

Likewise, retweets and shout outs give proper credit when do! >> INSPIRATION CAN BE FOUND ANYWHERE. But here are some good folks to follow:

There’s a reason why cat videos are a go-to favorite. We all need a little more enjoyment in the day.

• Twitter: @rogue_nps, @JCOSRanger1, @MrAndrewDuBois, @AlongsideWild, @CPW • Facebook: /KatmaiNPP (tune in for Fat Bear Week in October) • Instagram: henrythecoloradodog, greatoutdoorscolorado

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Colorado Byline | Winter 2020 • 21

2020 CPRA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

2020 CPRA Annual Conference Call for Session Proposals Do you have an idea for a session that you would like to see featured at the 2020 Annual Conference? If so, we invite you to contribute to our Call for Conference Session Proposals.

The 2020 CPRA Annual Conference is in Breckenridge from October 7-9. The session proposals submission process is now open.

Your input will ensure that the Conference Planning Committee considers a broad spectrum of topics. The deadline to submit a proposal is May 8, 2020. Submit online at www.cpra-web.org/page/SessionProposals

Session Topic Ideas Past conference attendees have written suggestions for future session topics – here is just a small sampling: n Membership retention n Communication within staff n Safe Space training for LGBTQIA+ issues n More aquatics related sessions n Coaches and parents n Braving the backlash of social media n Sustainability and change management for the industry as a whole n Creativity. How to grow it within the work place n Cost Recovery n How to create/fund/activate an extraordinary park and what it takes to do something outside of the normal playground or ball field/ shelter model – something to inspire folks to create imaginative parks outside the normal cookie cutter n Homelessness, legislation, and funding n ADA Accessibility Specific to Parks and Recreation n More marketing or PR sessions, how folks are advertising n Bridging the gap between parks and rec, not everyone knows about both! n How to continue to grow awareness of the value of P&R in our communities n Programs and marketing n More on natural playgrounds n Digital marketing for Parks & Rec n Social media marketing for programs and facilities n Park maintenance. n Additional programming n Parks/open space related sessions for those working in that aspect of the profession n Documentation in therapeutic recreation n Serving older adults n Technology n Dealing with change n Community partnerships

Have Questions?

Please don’t hesitate to contact CPRA Office at 303-231-0943 or cpra@cpra-web.org.

22 • Colorado Byline | Winter 2020

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CPRA is a dynamic, proactive organization that creates healthy residents and livable communities by promoting excellence in parks and recreation.

Our mission is to promote the parks and recreation profession and its growth throughout the state of Colorado.

Colorado Byline is a hyper-targeted magazine mailed to more than 1,400 CPRA members and affiliates. Published four times per year, the publication provides educational content focusing on current issues and industry trends. By advertising in Colorado Byline, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to market directly to these highly influential professionals who need and rely on your products, services, and educational opportunities.

Advertising Deadlines & Special Sections* Spring 2020 magazine issue Ad deadline: April 5, 2020 | Mails: May 2020 Special sections: CPRA member awards; engineering/design/construction; aquatics & safety

Summer 2020 magazine issue Ad deadline: July 6, 2020 | Mails: August 2020 Special sections: 2020 CPRA Annual Conference guide; group tours and partnering with CVBs

Fall 2020 magazine issue Ad deadline: September 27, 2020 | Mails: November 2020 Special sections: Product innovations, product design; Conference follow-up

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Ad deadline: September 27, 2020 | Mails: November 2020 For advertising information, contact Todd Pernsteiner at info@pernsteiner.com or (952) 841-1111, or visit www.cpra-web.org.

Colorado Byline | Winter 2020 • 24 FOR MORE DETAILS, DOWNLOAD THE 2020 RATE CARD AT WWW.BIT.LY/CPRA2020