KRPA Today, Fall 2012

Today FALL 2012

KRPA

Kansas Recreation & Park Association

Sharing the Torch page 8

Lenexa offers Playground Passport to encourage outdoor activity for kids

page 14

Reflections from Tomorrow’s Leaders page 12

Today

KRPA

Kansas Recreation & Park Association

Kansas Recreation and Park Association 700 SW Jackson St., Suite 805 Topeka, Kansas 66603 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

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Today

KRPA

Kansas Recreation & Park Association

Our Mission To advance park and recreation opportunities that enhance the quality of life through education, communication and advocacy.

Our Vision

Contents Perspective.........................................................................5 Around Kansas.................................................................6 Sharing the Torch..............................................................8 Pittsburg Develops Multi-generational Playground for Park System............................................7

The Kansas Recreation and Park Association is THE SOURCE for information which advances parks and recreation in the State of Kansas and beyond.

“AI” – We are talking about practice............................11

An affiliate of the National Recreation and Park Association

Lenexa Offers Playground Passport............................14

Kansas Recreation and Park Association 700 SW Jackson St. Suite 805, Topeka, Kansas 66603 www.krpa.org 785-235-6533

Reflections from Tomorrow’s Leaders.........................12 The Fight Against Emerald Ash Borer.........................16 Discovering Kansas Parks.............................................19 Revenue Generation vs. Core Values...........................20

KRPA Board of Directors President - Ernie Shaw (Lawrence) President-Elect -John Washington (Garden City) Past President - Mike Buchanan (Manhattan) Secretary/Treasurer - Cindy Crandall (Deerfield) Administration Branch - Diann Henderson (Great Bend) Aquatics Branch - Ted Nelson (Hutchinson) Marketing/Customer Service - Amy Conkling (Hutchinson) Park Law Enforcement Branch - Rob Gordon (KDPWT, Tuttle Creek) Therapeutic Recreation and Aging Branch - Rhonda Pollard (Johnson Cty Park and Recreation District) Park and Natural Resources Branch - Logan Wagler (Lenexa) Recreation Branch – Eric Jantz (Holcomb) Sports Branch - Brent Peintner (Cheney)

Members At Large West - Paul Lewis (Dodge City) Central - Brian Bascue (Newton) East - Brandy Shoemaker (Ottawa)

Committees/Ex Officio Awards - Connie Smith (Emporia) Citizen Board - Bob Johnson, Jr. (Blue Valley) Conference Planning - John Washington (Garden City) Professional Development - Steve Herrig (Blue Valley) Public Policy - John Knight (Shawnee Cty)/ Nancy Wallerstein (Johnson Cty) Colleges and Universities - Janice Jewett (Pittsburg) Parliamentarian - Steve Friend (Baldwin City) Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism - Linda Lanterman (Pratt)

Editorial Staff Managing Editor – Doug Vance Contributing Staff – Bonnie Simon, Cathy Ziegler, Sue Vance

Advertisers Bell Structural Solutions..................................................2 Cunningham Recreation..................................................4 Emporia Chamber & Visitors Bureau............................7 Future Pro Inc....................................................................2 G. Farney & Associates....................................................3 Paddock............................................................................21 Manhattan CVB................................................................4 On the Cover: A mixture of young professionals (back row) and veterans (front) from KRPA – embracing various levels of technology – grace our cover to help illustrate and draw attention the generational disconnect in parks and recreation and how we can better engage the growing population of Millennials in both the workplace and in association involvement. These issues are the focus of Sharing the Torch (page 8) written by Dawn Harmon.

Pictured on the cover are (back row, from the left) Brandon Olson (Spring Hill), Kristin Larsen (Blue Valley), Amy Castle (Spring Hill), Brice Soeken (Baldwin City), Megan Spence (Blue Valley), Brandy Shoemaker (Ottawa) and Aleks Lange (Olathe). Front row, from the left, are Steve Baysinger (Blue Valley), Darla Letts (Blue Valley) and Jim Chladek (Blue Valley).

Photo by MSH Photography.

Please support our advertisers, they make this publication possible.

For information on advertising, contact Todd Pernsteiner at (877) 694-1999 or info@pernsteiner.com.

Editorial Committee Chair – Chris Claxton (Leawood) Roger Steinbrock (Lawrence) Amy Conkling (Hutchinson) Brian Bascue (Newton)

Randy Knight (Johnson Cty) Dawn Harmon (Blue Valley) Paul Lewis (Garden City) Brandy Shoemaker (Ottawa)

This magazine is the official quarterly publication of the Kansas Recreation and Park Association and is provided complimentary as part of membership in KRPA. The editorial committee encourages the submission of articles and photos for publication. Articles of approximately 1000 words or less may be submitted, but may be edited for length and clarity.

Deadlines for articles, photos and advertising: Fall - September 15, 2012 Winter - December 15, 2012 Spring - April 15, 2012 Summer - June 15, 2012 KRPA reserves the right to approve all advertising in Kansas Recreation and Park Association. All requests for advertising should be made to Todd Pernsteiner, Account Manager, at 952-841-1111 or info@pernsteiner.com.

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Perspective

By Ernie Shaw, KRPA President, Lawrence Parks and Recreation

“Leveraging our strengths for future success” When we evaluate something, it is usually easier to pick out attributes that aren’t necessarily the good points of what we are evaluating. We often contemplate on how the system, the process or the item could be changed to make it better, more user-friendly or more palatable for us as the user. Most surveys are used in much the same way – asking questions on failures of a system in regards to its delivery, as well as requesting solutions or “fixes” to make us more satisfied. Think of the last survey you took. What kind of questions did it ask? More than likely, you were asked to rate on a scale your overall satisfaction of a service or product, as well as other aspects of the service or product. What this type of survey does is generate measurable outcomes, which helps to justify services, especially in governmental agencies; you get a clearer sense of the true value of services and the return on investment.

Another type of survey is the Appreciative Inquiry, which uses a different approach than the traditional survey method. The goal of the Appreciative Inquiry is to ask questions and collect data designed to help foster positive change. The challenge is to ask the right questions which can be useful to creating positive change.

Recently, your KRPA Board of Directors implemented an Appreciative Inquiry campaign by using an Appreciative Inquiry survey modeled off of Appreciative Inquiry surveys created by both the California and Minnesota state associations to help gauge and determine the needs of our association’s membership. Mike Buchanan of the Manhattan Parks and Recreation Department and past-president of KRPA took on the leadership challenge of coordinating the project. KRPA members were selected at random to participate in the survey and board members gave of their time to make calls and complete the surveys with the selected members.

The board is currently reviewing the survey for trends and how it can be used to provide guidance to the board in the future.

A full report of the Appreciative Inquiry is being prepared and will be presented at the state conference in January. To show how the survey is used one of the themes noticed on first blush is answers to the question “What do you value most about KRPA.” Many of the responses coincide with KRPA’s Mission Statement, which focuses on education, communication and advocacy. Respondents spoke of networking, advocacy and education. I think that reinforces the mission of our organization and can only help foster future growth of not only the membership but also the overall organization.

With each set of trends that are noticed in the survey results, goals and objectives will be created. For instance in the aforementioned example, goals and objectives could center around continuing to provide educational opportunities, enhancing them to continue to focus on the annual state conference/trade show, as well as working with branches to offer other learning opportunities throughout the year. A goal could also be developed to emphasize networking and its positive effects for members and the association.

Also, another goal could be to continue focusing on our story and advocate through the traditional lobby system and advocate in selling the benefits of robust parks and recreation agencies to communities throughout the state.

One way the Board is seeking to promote and assist its membership with its advocacy message is by implementing a “Did You Know” campaign. The campaign is designed to provide meaningful tools and resources to create more effective advocates for parks and recreation. The “Did You Know” program concept was created by Tom Lovell of Lee’s Summit, Mo., and was later adopted by the Missouri Parks and Recreation Association. It has been well received in Missouri and has been effective in helping grow parks and recreation support and is now a tool we can use in Kansas.

People are bombarded with facts and figures every day, but those that resonate in both economics and health tend to have staying power and offer

the greatest influence to sway people in support of an issue. The campaign will assist in telling our story in regards to health, economic, environmental, crime prevention, conservation and employment just to name a few. The facts and figures of the campaign will make people stop and think about how much a force and positive influence parks and recreation agencies have on a community, as well as to the State of Kansas. This program is adaptable to work at the local and state level. Its strategies will be crafted to incorporate messages that can be used in multiple platforms, including social media. I know the Board has had many discussions over the past few years about the many issues and challenges facing the membership in regards to funding support in the local community and from state government. This program is proactive and will provide advocacy resources to help you to understand strategies that can be used in your community to garner key support and promote parks and recreation benefits, building a base of support both locally and state-wide.

The campaign will be officially launched at the KRPA Conference with a half-day training session on Monday, Jan. 28, to help you to understand how it works and how to incorporate it into your advocacy plans in 2013. There will also be additional half-day training sessions over the coming months to train additional trainers from the membership who will be available to take the program across the state to also adopt this advocacy tool for its members.

Evaluation is a good thing, but it is a great thing when the results are being used in a positive way to create a more effective and efficient system, product or service. I believe we are on the right track and are currently evaluating what we do well, which in turn will help us to use our strengths of the parks and recreation industry to create greater outcomes that will make enhancements in our local communities’ quality of life and our state association stronger in advocating what we do and the results we are creating all across the state.

KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 5

Around KANSAS “Around KANSAS” highlights KRPA member events, news, people and more. To contribute to this section, please send a 125 word or less article and photos to Doug Vance at KRPA.

Five Athletes Represent Kansas at Hershey Nationals

Five participants from Kansas Hershey Track and Field received an all expense paid trip and competed in the North American Finals in Hershey, PA on August 2 - 5. Over the four days of competition, the Kansas athletes met Olympian’s Carl Lewis and Refer Johnson, spent the day at the Hershey World Amusement Park and participated in the North American Final. Kansas hosted a total of 25 local meets across the state with 1,139 participants. The two-day meet was held in Hutchinson where 267 athletes participated in the competition. 2013 state meet will be held in Hutchinson on June 22 and 23. Contact Connie Smith at Emporia Recreation to host a local Hershey Meet in your community next year.

Kansas Results: AJ Johnson, Salina (9-10 age) finished third in the standing long jump; Tabetha Deines, Salina (11-12 age) fifth in the 800 meter run; Jorge Hanschu, Hillsboro (11-12 age) tenth in the softball throw; Delaney Shaffer, Olathe (11-12 age) first in the 100 meter dash; and Dawson Downing, Lenexa (13-14 age) fifth in the softball throw.

Derby Recreation, KRPA Honored by Governor’s Council on Fitness Derby Recreation Commission was honored in late September at the Kansas State Fair with the Kansas Health Champion Award for organizations.

The award is annually presented by the Governor’s Council on Fitness and was presented by Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback during a special ceremony.

In addition, the Kansas Recreation and Park Association received honorable mention for the organizational award during the ceremony.

The Health Champion Award was developed to recognize and promote exemplary contributions to fitness in Kansas. Dr. Rick Werling of Fort Scott won the Health Champion Award for individuals.

Kansas Governor Sam Brownback (left) presents the Healthy Champion Award for organizations to Frank Seitz – Superintendent of Recreation, Derby Recreation Commission, during the Kansas State Fair. Also on hand representing the DRC are Trina Bauer, Kathleen Avitt and Terry Bourland. KDHE Secretary Richard Moser is at far right.

Ted Nelson of Hutchinson Recreation Commission and chair of the KRPA Aquatics Branch accepts the honorary mention award from Kansas Governor Sam Brownback (left) and KDHE Secretary Richard Moser (far right).

Caney Valley Opens New Community Center A sparkling new $1.1 million community center, funded by Dr. Robert and Betty Moore of Caney, opened its doors in July and is providing the Caney Valley Recreation Commission an opportunity to provide a wealth of new programs and services.

The Caney Community Center is a 16,000 square foot facility that offers a full size gymnasium with seating for 100 people, fitness/exercise room, game room, meeting room and space for staff offices. “Our community has never had a facility that could be used for so many different things,” said Brett Anderson, director, Caney Valley

Recreation Commission. “Most people had to look out of town for a place to meet for just a small gathering.”

“The location and opportunity for the recreation commission to operate as the center hub of the community should be a win-win for everyone involved,” added Anderson.

The facility has allowed the recreation commission to expand its services in a wide variety of areas to open up programs for all age groups in the community.

Shawnee County Parks and Recreation Earn Two National Awards at NACPRO

Left to Right; Connie Smith, Emporia (Hershey Track Committee); AJ Johnson, Dawson Downing, Jorge Hanschu, Tabetha Deines, Delaney Shaffer, and Jason Steadman, Newton (Hershey Track Committee).

6 • KRPA Today - www.krpa.org

Shawnee County Parks and Recreation earned two national awards at the 2012 National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials Conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Dick and Dotty Hanger were selected to receive the “Outstanding Contributor” Award which is presented to an individual or individuals who have made a significant contribution of land or fiscal resources to parks and recreation. The Hanger’s have been community leaders for many years and have made countless contributions to the Topeka and Shawnee County community.

The Play for All Field located in Gage Park received the “Removing Barriers Initiatives” award which recognizes a unique program or facility that enables and encourages greater participation in parks and recreation by persons with disabilities.

Pittsburg Develops Multi-generational Playground for Park System chain, the swing set features swings with hard backs and a harness system, Vogel said. Sturdy and oversized, the swings each have a locking mechanism that makes securing a child safe and easy. The backs will provide support for those who have physical limitations in sitting upright themselves.

Work will begin in October on a playground unlike any other in Crawford County and perhaps in Southeast Kansas.

What is being called a “multigenerational” playground is to be built at Schlanger Park in Pittsburg, and is designed to be accessible to those with mobility issues, including those restricted to wheelchairs, walkers and strollers.

“There is currently nothing like it in our park system, nor the USD 250 playground system,” said Kim Vogel, director of Pittsburg’s parks and recreation department, which will work with a volunteer group to fund the equipment.

That concept was the basis for the project’s name, “Everybody Plays.”

“There were a lot of misconceptions at first that it was just specifically for children with disabilities. In fact, we call it ‘Everybody Plays’ because it is open access. For example, for grandparents who aren’t able to climb ladders to slides,” said Committee Chair Karen Aquino. “I can think of nothing worse than to sit on the sidelines and want to sit on the swings and them to not be accessible to you.”

The playground equipment will feature ramps and gradual inclines, eliminating the need for adults with canes and walkers to maneuver steps and ladders to get children to the top of a slide, for example.

Rather than have traditional flexible plastic swing seats suspended from a

And because the surface surrounding the swing set will be made of a smooth, rubber-like material rather than mulched, those using wheelchairs, canes or walkers will have access to the swings.

“It will give everyone the ability to play freely in an inclusive environment,” Vogel said.

Fundraising for the first part – the $27,000 swing set and the surface – was slow-going. Private donations and coins collected by school children totaled $7,000.

But a milestone was met in midSeptember with the announcement that the Pritchett Trust would fund the remainder of the swing set and the new surface. The $20,000 grant was awarded Sept. 13. Funds raised in future 10K, 5K and one-mile fun run events will go toward the playground structure. The entire project cost is estimated at about $200,000.

“We really want to pick up the momentum and continue until the project comes to fruition,” Aquino said.

Editor’s Note: This article was reprinted with permission from the Joplin Globe

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Photo: Pittsburg Parks and Recreation Director Kim Vogel (center) is shown displaying a check for $20,000 she received from the Pritchett Trust Grant to fund the playground project. Also shown are, from the left: LouAnn Colyer, SKIL (Southeast Kansas Independent Living); Vogel, Pittsburg Parks and Recreation and Karen Aquino, chair of the Everybody Plays playground project.

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by Dawn L. Harmon, Blue Valley Recreation

the Torch

The work place...it is where we form relationships, place trust in others, develop skills, and network. Many of us could say we spend just as much time with our work family as we do with our actual family. The work place is our home away from home, more so now than ever.

1965-1976); Millennials/Gen Y (born 1977-1997); and Gen 2020 (born after 1997). Instead of passing the torch, park and recreation agencies find themselves sharing the torch across generations, each with its own set of values, expectations, work ethic, and voice.

Gone are the days when the torch was handed from generation to generation. For the first time in history, five generations comprise the work force: Traditionalists (born prior to 1946); Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964); Gen X (born

According to Pew Research Center (2010), Millennials account for 30 percent of the total adult population, second to Baby Boomers with 34 percent. The expectation is for Millennials to overtake the top spot by 2015. For parks and recreation, this means more Millennials competing for jobs

8 • KRPA Today - www.krpa.org

“I certainly welcome input from seasoned veterans...

But I also enjoy taking the reins.” currently held by tenured professionals staying in the work force longer.

KRPA’s Young Professionals understand these statistics far too well. “There’s not a lot of job openings in the field,” said Brandy Shoemaker, Ottawa Recreation Commission. “And once employed, you have to navigate stereotypes and generation gaps.”

KRPA Wants To Engage Young Professionals How to involve Millennials is not just a workplace issue. It also has the attention of the KRPA Board of Directors.

Recently, members of the KRPA Board of Directors, former board members along with KRPA Executive Director Doug Vance met with a representative group from the association’s Young Professional Committee in an effort to gain a better understanding of how to effectively work and engage the Millennial demographic.

The young professional group was quizzed on a wide array of topics to learn more effective ways to harness involvement from young professionals in KRPA now and into the future and to seek feedback on how to better communicate with them.

During the meeting, Vance referenced the book called Race For Relevance (Harrison Coervery, Mary Byers) that’s creating a buzz in association management circles. The book which focuses attention on the possible disconnect with Millennials and their associations.

He noted that the authors suggest the traditional association model has less

Get Involved Brice Soeken, Baldwin City Recreation Commission

appeal to each succeeding generation of members and he feels it’s important for KRPA to examine this issue closely and continue to understand how to make membership more appealing and rewarding for Millennials.

The book brings forward several concepts which explain why old membership concepts don’t always relate to the newest generational workforce.

The authors of the book point out, “...research suggests that the generation disconnect can be bridged and declining engagement can be reversed, but only if associations recognize the growing differences in member needs, preferences, and values and do something about it.”

Can you hear me?

Millennials were the most adult-supervised kids in American history. They often had parents who listened to them and took what they said into consideration before making family decisions.

Advertisers recognized this trend and targeted kids for common decisions like what to eat for dinner or where to shop. Millennials seek the same environment in the work place. They want a voice and want their opinions and potential valued.

“I certainly welcome input from seasoned veterans,” said Brice Soeken, Baldwin City Recreation Commission.

“But I also enjoy taking the reins.”

Can you text me?

The Millennials grew up digital. Many of them have never used a rotary phone. Most of them don’t even use cell phones for speaking to others – they text, tweet, and Instagram. It’s their form of communication. They want, need and desire immediate – Continued on page 10

with the KRPA Young Professional Committee New to parks and recreation in Kansas and interested in networking with other young professionals around the state? The KRPA Young Professional Committee provides a relaxed forum for newcomers to discuss common workplace topics. In addition, the group coordinates several programs and initiatives – such as the KRPA mentor program for both young professionals and students – that help enhance learning opportunities and professional development.

If you have interest in being involved in the Young Professional Committee or want to learn more about it, contact one of the committee members listed below for more information. Also, be sure to “Check us out on Facebook – KRPA Young Professionals.”

Jackie Buser, Blue Valley jbuser@bluevalleyrec.org Amy Castle, Spring Hill amyc@springhillrec.org Kate Kinkaid, Shawnee KKinkaid@Ci.Shawnee.Ks.Us Brice Soeken, Baldwin City brice@baldwinrec.org Kristin M. Larsen, Blue Valley klarsen@bluevalleyrec.org Brandon Olsen, Spring Hill brandono@springhillrec.org Anna Albright, Parsons aalbright@parsonsks.com Aleks Lange, Olathe alange@olatheks.org Tara Forrester, Johnson Cty tara.forrester@jocogov.org KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 9

feedback. The digital world allows them to interact at any time and in any place. Work is no different.

Semi-annual reviews are too late. Millennials want feedback as it happens.

“Communication is huge,” said Anna Albright, Parsons Recreation Commission. “Let me know how I am doing besides on an evaluation.”

Can you pay me?

Perhaps the biggest gap among generations is the issue of money. The Millennials have a different attitude – many would rather have no job than a job they hate. Creativity, passion and leadership are all at the forefront for this generation. Work means more than paying bills; it is an expression of a need to connect deeply with what you do every day.

“I love thinking of new programs and ideas to try,” said Kristin Larsen, Blue Valley Recreation Commission. “The flexibility to be creative and spontaneous is very attractive.”

Can you change me?

Andy Warhol once said, “They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” Millennials were taught to constantly learn and grow. They grew up in a world where change was the norm. They don’t necessarily want to reinvent the wheel, they just want to find a new way to build it.

“Advertising and consumer interaction are not near as static as they once were,” noticed Brandon Olson, Spring Hill Recreation Commission. “Young Professionals have great ideas to stay technologically agile.”

Understanding Millennials At all levels, both internally in the workplace and in working with the customer base, leaders in park and recreation throughout the state need to have a good understanding of the dynamics in play when it comes to communicating, motivating and engaging Millennials. The environment we deal with in the marketplace in terms of the younger demographic continues to evolve and it requires workplace concepts to change if we want to prosper.

In some instances, it may cause an organization to examine its workplace culture and possibly reinvent its approach in an effect to connect better with both its younger employees and customers.

Keeping that generational torch lit and burning brightly now and into the future is at stake!

10 • KRPA Today - www.krpa.org

Brandon Olson, Spring Hill Recreation Commission

“Advertising and consumer interaction are not near as static as they once were. Young Professionals have great ideas to stay technologically agile.”

By Mike Buchanan Manhattan Parks and Recreation

“AI” – We are talking about practice Anyone familiar with professional sports – and NBA basketball in particular – will no doubt remember the postgame conference conducted several years ago by Allen Iverson, who was then a member of the Philadelphia 76ers (and coached by ex-Jayhawk Larry Brown). “AI”, as he was known to some, gave a memorable response to a question asked about his practice habits (or lack thereof), and continually repeated the phrase “We’re talking about practice”. It was actually fairly humorous, and was significant enough to become a regular replay on ESPN.

All told, information was collected from 70 KRPA members.

Through analysis of the responses, the AI team sought to recognize and establish themes or trends. These trends were then used to develop a series of goals and objectives designed to push the focus of KRPA toward a concept of working toward greatness, rather than trying not to make mistakes.

So, what does this have to do with KRPA? Earlier this year, the Board of Directors of KRPA, in cooperation with the Executive staff, developed its own “AI” initiative.

In this case, “AI” refers to Appreciative Inquiry, which is a survey technique that has gradually gained popularity over the last several years. Borrowing from a concept used by several states – more specifically, Minnesota and California – the BOD agreed to develop this style of analysis to gauge the needs of the membership of KRPA.

Having said that, Doug Vance and his staff are very keen on the notion of using this information as a springboard for growth, positive change, and incentive. Resting on their laurels is not the goal; rather, the push is to “keep the needle moving” toward a consistently higher level of efficient and effective service to the membership.

Tom Mihalek/AFP/Getty Images

Allen Iverson

Appreciative Inquiry is a research tool that uses a different approach than the typical survey method. Traditional surveys are generally geared to identify problems, and then focus on finding solutions to those problems. With AI, the goal is to ask questions and collect data designed to help foster positive change in organizations. The challenge is to change the right things the right way; to hopefully identify what KRPA members need, want, and appreciate. The focus should be on “great performance” rather than “fixing problems”.

At the January, 2012 BOD meeting, the KRPA “AI” plan was introduced. The administrative staff, in cooperation with select board members, developed the series of questions to be asked to the membership. In March, board members were given a list of 10 or 11 colleagues to interview, and given about 8 weeks to gather feedback and report their data. AI facilitators then assimilated the data and formulated the results.

To sum up in the most general terms, the AI research showed that our membership is very much satisfied with the high level of service and opportunity offered by KRPA. The themes found to be most prevalent in the responses included an appreciation for the chances to network, learn, and advocate on behalf of our industry. Additionally, the concerns most often identified are shrinking budgets, and issues regarding obesity and the aging.

The survey results indicate that the focus of the executive staff needs to continue to be on maintaining and improving the current scope of services, most notably as it relates to technology.

The annual KRPA Conference was overwhelmingly mentioned as the time when KRPA folks felt the most engaged, enthused, and energized about the association. To borrow from a popular 1970’s phrase, KRPA needs to “Keep on keepin’ on”.

In retrospect, Allen Iverson may have actually been on to something with his insights regarding practice. “We’re talking about practice”, as he repeatedly stated, was meant to lessen the significance (in his opinion) of the importance of preparation in a sports setting. To Mr. Iverson (the original “A I”) practice was not important. To KRPA, the new “A I” suggests that practice – although in a different perspective – is extremely critical. In our case, it’s the practice of giving folks what they want, in the right way, and doing it very well.

Yes, Alan Iverson - we are talking about practice.

Editor’s Note: Mike Buchanan serves as pastpresident of KRPA and took the leadership role in overseeing the Appreciative Inquiry study.

KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 11

Reflections from Tomorrow’s Leaders

By Nichole Asquith, Marketing Manager Olathe Parks and Recreation

Reflecting back on two and half days of lectures, team building and role playing and the thought that continually runs through my mind is powerful.

The week was truly a powerful experience both professionally and personally. Tomorrow’s Leaders is designed to challenge what you think you are capable of in every way, while at the same time evaluating your personal process for dealing with a variety of situations.

12 • KRPA Today - www.krpa.org

Front, from the left: Sarah Hageman (Lincoln), Megan Spence (Blue Valley), Jennifer Smith (Shawnee County), Rachel Sullivan (Lawrence), Nichole Asquith (Olathe) and Jamie Kempfe (Johnson County). Back, from the left: Wes Squire (Spring Hill), Levi Gantenbein (KDWPT), Matt Colvin (KDWPT), James Kegin (Eudora), Barry Conley (Lenexa), Julian Marquez (Lenexa), Aleks Lange (Olathe), Rob Kobel (Lenexa), Brett Anderson (Caney Valley) and Susanne Neely (Lenexa).

A Three Day Diary From KRPA’s Professional Development Workshop

Day 1 Tuesday Tuesday morning started a little slow and left me wondering what the next two and half days had in store for the 16 professionals who had entered an unknown atmosphere in the secluded Tall Oaks Conference Center. Most of us had never met with the exception of co-workers attending the event together.

Everyone slowly began to walk out of their comfort zone and make introductions, but it was obvious that most of the group was just a little unsure...friendly, but unsure.

We took our seats for the first speaker, Dr. Dennis Tyner, Provost, University of Ottawa. His powerful presentation on “Increasing the Probability of a ‘Successful’ Future” began to change the atmosphere.

As his thoughts and directions

began to sink in you could see the group growing more comfortable with sharing experiences and embracing the concepts put in front of us. One of the key messages I took away from our first speaker was to step outside of my (our) comfort zone. Little did I know that prevailing message would mean so much after we finished lunch.

Speaking of lunch! If you are reading this and considering a trip to Tomorrow’s Leaders next year or just a staff retreat at Tall Oaks, I must say the staff there knows how to cook. I will not spend time throughout this talking about our meals, but let’s just say writer Geoffrey Neigher had it right when he wrote, “good food ends with good talk.”

The afternoon of our first day tested our problem solving, communication, team work and leadership skills in four quick challenges. The Ropes Challenge Course at Tall Oaks, located deep in the surrounding forest area, offers several intriguing opportunities for groups. When we started, the plan for the day was to do the first challenge as a group and then split into two smaller gatherings in hopes of completing more of the challenge. So, we faced a ship wreck exercise together and had a lot to figure out. We managed to solve the challenge, but also found a lot of areas where we lacked.

At this point I would like to apologize to classmate Jaime Kempfe (Johnson County Park & Recreation District) for the collective 15 voices yelling at her to grab the side during the exercise.

Funny what stress will do to a group... oh and the lesson, stop and make sure the plan is clear to everyone, especially the person who has to execute it. As we finished that challenge it became more obvious that we were a fun group with a good balance of personalities so the game plan changed and we all continued through the challenges as a TEAM of 16. We would learn to lean on each other for help, work to choose words that clearly communicated our need and at times hang onto each other for dear life all while crossing a peanut butter ocean and walking tight ropes through lava. We walked back for dinner as a new group, no longer were we strangers who were sent to this training on the same day, but instead a gathering of friends ready for the next challenge together.

That evening, our speaker, Rich Zvosec, a former college basketball coach and current analyst on television, joined us for dinner and then finished off our night with a great speech on making a difference. We each walked out of the presentation with a lucky buckeye that he distributed, a dream card and a new mantra to” Drink, Swear, Steal & Lie.” If that sounds like a strange mantra, please know that Coach “Z” used it to present a very positive message. Our first evening together was focused on socializing and just getting to know more about each other. There was a lot of card playing, who knew there was an official website for Egyptian Rat Screw or that bringing cash might be beneficial to the week.

Day 2 Wednesday Day two was great in a different way.

There was so much packed into our 14-hour day that - when you looked at the schedule - you thought no way am I to survive this! Ahead were four lectures, an obstacle course and a secret project that redefined “out of your comfort zone.”

The speakers were wonderful and very insightful. Brandi Tubb, formerly with Turner Parks & Recreation, along with Michael Meadors, Director, Johnson County Park & Recreation District, both brought energy to their presentations.

Emily Campbell, Asst. Finance Director, City of Manhattan and Jim Chladek, Blue Valley Recreation Commission, presented the real life of business with budgeting and HR issues in the afternoon. All four presentations reinforced the aspects of the parks and recreation business that so many already know about, but were new to most of us. Not often are we asked to put ourselves in the shoes of our director and examine our own budget area and remember it has to be balanced with the five other areas also asking for money.

We were reminded how one bad post on Facebook can cause your entire department issues that you had maybe not ever considered.

On every level each presenter on the second day made you stop, think and reevaluate – another key message to the week. So, at this point you might be wondering what was fun about this day?

Well the obstacle course…of course!

The middle of the day event offered a variation on household fun and challenge course games.

We were divided into three teams Orange, Blue and Green with five or six on each team. Then, at the sound of GO, a bunch of grown adults looked like kids having the time of their lives competing in fun, but somewhat difficult, challenges and chanting silly cheers (knock, knock anyone?). The Orange team won; of course, this is important because I was on the Orange team!

We would learn later the real benefit of finishing first in that competition.

After four lectures, a hearty lunch and the obstacle course competition you might think our day was complete.

Nope, not yet as we were presented one

Suddenly, we were given our final assignment which meant about five hours consulting in our team groups to develop a presentation based on a scenario given to us by the great leaders and event facilitators.

This would take everything we had learned on the challenge course, from our guest speakers and just in conversation and put it all to the test.

Each group formed a fictional park and recreation agency and was given the assignment of solving a major problem in front of a city council the last day. It became clear this was not your normal presentation with public relation nightmares, budget reductions and a grumpy council member that was out to get rid of the local park and recreation agency.

Day 3 Thursday Never in my life as a public speaker have I been as shaken as I was in those thirty minutes of our presentation in front of the city council on Thursday morning. Since our team had finished first in the obstacle course event, we got to choose what order we presented and we chose first! Each group had a different approach and each of us did a few things right and each had a few areas for improvement. When the exercise concluded three hours later, we all walked away stronger and better than we were before we started.

In two and half days I attended the most powerful training I have ever had the opportunity to experience. I was reminded of the power of planning, the power of communication and the power of networking. I am not a parks and recreation professional by trade. In fact, I have eight whole months in the field. But, through Tomorrow’s Leaders, I saw the common issues that everyone faces and how together we can work to assist each other, our departments, our directors and our careers. If you have a chance, no matter where you are in your profession, mark out three days on your calendar next year and get to know a new group of future leaders.

more “Twist” to handle.

KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 13

By Jenny Doty, Recreation Supervisor Lenexa Parks and Recreation Department

Lenexa Offers

“Playground Passport” To Encourage Outdoor Activity for Kids

Getting kids out the door and to the park can sometimes seem like a chore, but not in Lenexa this past summer. Children were begging their parents to take them to another park, and another and another until they had visited every playground in the city! Families were challenged to visit 24 out of 26 playgrounds in Lenexa from May to September and documenting visits on a “Playground Passport.”

Families went to each playground and found a sign that had a number and letter. They wrote the letter above the corresponding number to decode a message.

Once their adventures were complete they turned in their passports for a t-shirt, small toy and they were entered into a drawing to win prizes. Many of the prizes were donated by local companies and some were combined for a grand prize.

It is important for Lenexa to encourage families to go out-

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doors when almost one in three children are obese and children are spending half of their time outdoors compared to 20 years ago. Thanks to this program that encourages children to go to so many playgrounds, parents reported visiting parks much more than they did in previous summers. Some families also found new parks with fun equipment that they never knew existed, and the kids definitely wanted to return.

Lenexa is scheduled to spend more than $1.1 million dollars revitalizing old playground sites and building new playgrounds between 2011-2015. In 2011, 10 new playgrounds were installed or replaced and those updates and this program are just the beginning of Lenexa’s investment in children’s outdoor recreation. The funding for these improvements came from a 3/8-cents sales tax approved by voters in 2008. It is a focus for Lenexa Parks and Recreation to encourage families

Lenexa is scheduled to spend more than $1.1 million dollars revitalizing old playground sites and building new playgrounds between 2011-2015.

Photography by Ken Ragan

to get out and enjoy the new amenities and get excited as improvements continue to happen. The program has been a positive way to show taxpayers that we are using their money wisely, throughout the entire community.

purchasing signs, small prizes and printing passports. The largest cost of these materials can be reused to do this program in the future. The benefits of this program and the goals we were able to target definitely outweigh the cost.

This past summer more than 500 passports were distributed at special events and at our community center. By midSeptember, 41 children had completed their passports with several weeks to go before the program ends. Even though families may have not completed the passport, they expressed their excitement in having a great resource to explore their community in the future.

Most parks and recreation departments struggle to figure out how to get kids outdoors, get them moving, and obtaining tax-payers support. Sometimes all it takes is a friendly challenge. With reports that families went to more parks with greater frequency, kids were leading the charge to our playgrounds, and parents were surprised at all the great parks we have it is easy to say that this program will be offered again.

Lenexa spent less than $300 on materials including posts,

KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 15

The fight against the invasion of

Emerald Ash Borer in Kansas

By Nicole Opbroek Forest Health Specialist, Kansas Forest Service

E

merald Ash Borer was

discovered in Wyandotte

County near Wyandotte Lake

Adult Emerald Ash Borer Photo: Leah Bauer, USFS

in August 2012. This is the first identified infestation in Kansas.

The lead state agency in the fight against EAB is Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA). Kansas Forest Service (KFS) has been an active cooperator in this effort and will continue to do so.

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Woodpecker damage to ash tree Photo: David Cappaert, MSU

Bark splits Photo: MI Dept. of Ag.

Where does Emerald Ash Borer come from? how far has it spread?

The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an exotic wood boring beetle that was introduced to North America from Asia. In 2002, it was first discovered in Detroit, MI. It was believed to have arrived via wood packing material in shipping crates. The initial introduction of EAB likely occurred in the early 1990’s. Since the 2002 discovery, it has been identified in the following states: Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Maryland, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia, Wisconsin, Missouri, Minnesota, Kentucky, New York, Iowa, Tennessee, Connecticut, and now Kansas. A federal quarantine is in place covering whole states or counties where EAB is present. In Kansas, further detection surveys are underway (September 2012) which will determine the quarantined counties. This beetle threatens our urban forests & natural areas by killing all North American ash species (Fraxinus) and their cultivars.

Over 25 million ash trees have been destroyed due to EAB.

Lifecycle & How Emerald Ash Borer kills Ash Trees EAB kills trees over a period of one to four years depending on the size and vigor of the tree. Adults are usually present during the summer months (May-August) depending on the weather patterns. A few weeks after eggs are deposited in crevices in the bark, they hatch and the larvae begin to chew through the outer bark to the phloem.

It is the larval stage that does the damage. When feeding they begin forming S-shaped galleries (July-October) that expand as they grow. This feeding fatally disrupts the transport of water and nutrients from the roots to the crown of the tree. The larvae overwinter as prepupae in the sapwood and in the spring after a few weeks pupate and emerge as adults (May-June) creating

a D-shaped exit hole. As adult beetles, they feed on the foliage during their 3-6 week lifespan, mate, and then the process begins again each year. One keynote: weather is a key player on timing for the beetle. For example: if it is a warmer than usual year, then emergence and flight will occur earlier – like this spring of 2012.

What does Emerald Ash Borer look like?

• Adult beetles are a rich metallic green in color, with a purple to reddish copper colored abdominal segments under the wings. The insect is approximately half an inch long and an eighth of an inch wide.

• Larvae are legless, with bellshaped body segments that have a flattened appearance. They are creamy white in color and are found under the bark.

• When adult beetles emerge from the tree, they leave distinctive Dshaped (half-moon shaped) exit holes in the outer bark of branches and the trunk. Their presence typically goes undetected until trees show symptoms of being infested.

D-shaped exit holes Photo: Joseph O’Brien, USFS

What are the signs or symptoms of Emerald Ash Borer?

• Canopy dieback: Starts from the top down and can occur until the tree is bare and heavily infested.

Up to ½ of the tree’s branches can die back during the first year.

• Epicormic shoots: Sprouts grow from the roots and trunk as the tree tries to compensate for the loss of canopy below the level of infestation. The leaves are often larger than normal on these sprouts.

• Increased woodpecker activity: Birds peck while foraging creates larger holes when extracting insects.

• Bark splitting: Vertical fissures will appear when sprouts are present on the bark due to callous tissue formation. Galleries may be visible under the exposed bark split.

• Serpentine (S-Shaped) galleries: Larval feeding creates tunnels that weave across the wood grain.

Galleries will be packed with frass (mix of sawdust and excrement).

Adult Emerald Ash Borer, s-shaped galleries with frass

• D-Shaped exit holes: Happens upon emergence of adult beetles.

Photo: Eric Day, Virginia PolyTech Inst.

KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 17

How do Emerald Ash borer Infestations Spread?

EAB adults can fly at least 1/2 mile a year from the tree where they emerge.

Thus, parks or natural areas that contain ash tree species greater than 5 miles from known EAB populations are projected to be 10 years from EAB impact. It is generally recommended that if EAB is in your county or with 15 miles of, protection of ash trees should be started. This unfortunately cannot be said in confidence due to the difficultly in detecting low-level EAB populations and the high likelihood that EAB could spread further distances by people moving ash logs/tree parts, green ash lumber, composted & uncomposted chips of ash, ash firewood, or infested ash trees from nurseries. The simplest way to slow the spread of EAB is to not move these restricted articles.

municipal properties like parks. White ash tends to be located in upland sites. Green ash is also commonly found along rivers & streams in our natural areas.

Contact Information If you suspect you have an Emerald Ash Borer infestation contact:

Emerald Ash Borer larva Photo: Pennsylvania Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources

What is at risk?

There are an estimated 56.1 million green and white ash trees in our rural and urban landscapes. Green ash is the most widely distributed of all the American ash species because it is hardy to the climatic extremes in the Great Plains. Often green or white ash species are the dominant tree in city street plantings, ornamentals, subdivisions, golf courses, and other

KDA (Lead agency) (785) 862.2180 KFS office (785) 532.3300 or the Local K-State Extension agent in your area.

Editor’s Note: The Kansas Forest Service will present two breakout sessions on EAB as part of the Park and Natural Resource Branch educational offerings during the 2013 KRPA Conference and Trade Show.

Treatment Options Insecticide options for Protecting Ash Trees from Emerald Ash Borer is a good publication on the various methods. In addition, the Purdue EAB Insecticide Product Guide discusses the most current options. Because pesticides need to be applied annually to every couple years, they are best-used to protect high value trees for the life of that tree. There are various professional use products to choose from. For more information visit: www.emeraldashborer.info and click EAB Infested Trees or additional information can be found at: extension. entm.purdue.edu/EAB and click on management.

As a result of the infestation, Kansas Recreation and Park Association members whom seek to minimize economic, aesthetic, and environmental impact on your city’s urban forest are asked tobe proactive.

1

Familiarize yourself with the quarantine areas & state regulations.

2

Identify and count your ash trees by a simple inventory & assess the health and condition.

3

Contact the office of the Mayor, Town Council President, Tree Board to determine funding allocations as determined in your Community Action Plan for treatment, removal & replacement of infested trees.

4

Preemptively remove ash in severe decline from any cause.*

5

Start monitoring your ash for signs and symptoms of EAB this next growing season

6

Replace lost ash with a diversity of trees species.

*Removal of damaged/defective ash trees or pruning during the winter months (Nov.-Feb.) should be done when EAB is dormant. When removing trees in a quarantined county and transporting to the nearest marshaling yard, whole ash trees (top, bowl & stump) must be chipped to less than one inch in two dimensions. If ash logs are wanted for lumber or other uses outside the quarantined county, the bark and 1 inch of sapwood must be removed. REMEMBER that EAB does not cause any defects in the ash wood itself, so there are plenty of on-site uses if the trunks can be cut into useable products via portable mill.

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Discovering

Kansas Parks

By Teri Simpson, Marketing Director – Shawnee County Parks and Recreation

Lake Shawnee

Lake Shawnee offers a variety of recreational opportunities that provide a break from busy schedules while providing relaxation to one’s mind and body. Over one million users annually enjoy the beauty and diversity of Lake Shawnee. Visitors to the lake enjoy amenities such as the Bettis Family Sports Complex, Ted Ensley Gardens, bicycle/pedestrian trail, arboretum, marina, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, open spaces, campground, 18 hole golf course, shelter houses, swimming beach with water slide, playgrounds and water activities of every kind.

The construction of Lake Shawnee and the surrounding park was a project of Shawnee County and the Water Conservation and Park Development Program of the Federal Works Progress Administration (WPA). The project of building the lake began in November 1935, was completed in May 1938, and opened to fishermen in September 1939. In 1939, there were only 100 surface acres of water. Today, Lake Shawnee has 410 surface acres of water. This represents about 2.75 billion gallons. Lake Shawnee is a game sanctuary for waterfowl and other animals. Picnic and observation areas are located along eight miles of shoreline The 1,110 acre park is today one of the Midwest’s finest recreational centers.

The Bettis Family Sports Complex provides year-round recreational opportunities. The complex has six baseball fields with two large enough to play all levels of baseball up through and including professional baseball. The facility also includes a multi-purpose field used primarily for soccer but can also host youth flag football and t-ball as well.

A concrete bicycle/pedestrian trail goes around the entire lake, extending approximately seven miles.

The primary loop was developed around the entire park, while the smaller and shorter secondary loops or spurs take advantage of the unique park assets. The trail attracts thousands of walkers, runners and bike riders annually. National Award recognition was bestowed on the facility when the Lake Shawnee Trail was the recipient of the

Parks and Recreation Areas and Facilities Award by the National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials in 2009.

The Ted Ensley Gardens are located on the west side of Lake Shawnee with a panoramic view of the lake. The gardens span an area of nearly 20 acres. Visitors can walk through a beautiful 60 ft. covered bridge over a rocky stream, and stroll on the sidewalks through a meditation garden, rock gardens, many annual and perennial beds, rose gardens, and water gardens. There is a gazebo, pergola, waterfalls, streams, and several ponds. The horticulturists, with the assistance of volunteers plant more than 80,000 Tulips and Daffodils that are in full bloom for the annual Tulip Time in Topeka. In May more than 90,000 annuals are planted in beds throughout the gardens. The Gardens also provide a unique setting for outdoor wedding ceremonies.

National Award recognition was bestowed on the Ted Ensley Gardens when Jerold Binkley was the recipient of the Outstanding Contributor Award, in the category of Friends of Parks and Recreation Division by the Awards Committee of the National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials (NACPRO) in 2008. The facility was honored again nationally when Hallmark Cards, Inc. was the recipient of the Outstanding Support Organization given by the National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials in 2009.

The Lake Shawnee Arboretum was developed in 1995 and consists of over 397 trees of over 100 different varieties, landscape beds, and a water pond with bridge. This area is used extensively for educational purposes as well as community beautification.

The lake provides a spectacular background for the Lake Shawnee Golf Course, a challenging, par 70, 18-hole golf course. The course measures over 6300 yards from the back tees.

A Marina offers recreational paddleboat, kayak, and canoe rentals during the summer months, and sells concessions, boat permits and fishing licenses.

Year-round R.V. camping is available along the wooded shores of Lake Shawnee. A swim beach is located in a protected cove on Lake Shawnee for recreational and instructional swimming.

Concessions, dressing facilities and restrooms are available. The complex offers shaded picnic areas, sand volleyball court, a suntan deck and two (2) water slides.

An eighteen hole disc golf course sits along the eastern edge of Lake Shawnee and has proven to be a popular attraction for people of all ages. The Dawn to Dusk Disc Club competes here and the course is host to several large tournaments each year.

There are eight lighted tennis courts for yearround use; a heated fishing dock for fishing during the winter months; and the Windsurf Beach on the west shore providing access to the lake for windsurfing enthusiasts.

Additionally, the department contracts and works closely with area associations that use Lake Shawnee to support their programs, i.e. Topeka Rowing Association, Shawnee Boat and Ski Club, Shawnee Yacht Club, Shawnee County Girl’s Softball Association and Shawnee County Amateur Baseball Association.

Lake Shawnee is a year-round playground, giving individuals the opportunity to spend time with themselves or with family and friends.

KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 19

Revenue Generation

Core Values . s v Have we lost our way?

By Harvey Feldman, American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration

In the September 2011 issue of Parks and Recreation magazine an article entitled “Mastering Revenue: Agencies turn to fees and charges to make up for shrinking general funds” caught my attention. The cover had the headline PAY TO PLAY: Some like it. Others don’t. All agree it’s here to stay” and I do too.

In the article a colleague was quoted as saying, “This is no different from running a regular business, no different at all.” I vehemently disagree with this assertion.

Instead I support the position of Jim Collins, author of the best-selling book Good to Great, rather than the number of other park and recreation administrators who believe the sentiment expressed in that statement will save their own department from financial difficulties.

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If you have not read Good to Great, I recommend it to you. When Collins was asked how his research applied to social sector organizations, he prepared a monograph called “Good to Great and the Social Sectors, Why Business Thinking is Not the Answer,” to accompany his fiveyear research study. In the monograph he penned, “A great organization is one that delivers superior performance and makes a distinctive impact over a long period of time. For a business, financial returns are a perfectly legitimate measure of performance. For a social sector organization, however, performance must be assessed relative to mission, not financial return” [emphasis added].

As professionals, we need to speak out and share Collins findings with others wherever we can. Our mission defines

what business we are in, NOT how much revenue we raise or the percentage of cost recovery we achieve.

From a practical standpoint there is another reason why the ‘no different at all business’ statement generally won’t work.

We operate in a ‘diffuse power structure,’ as Collins calls it, which makes it considerably more difficult to be a mission and values driven organization. Park and recreation directors and staff end up spending more of their time generating new revenue streams than evaluating outcomes tied to community issues. Collins suggests that, “Social sector leaders are not less decisive than business leaders as a general rule; they only appear that way to those who fail to grasp the complex governance and diffuse power structures common to social sectors.” One such social sector CEO

commented that the “diffuse power structure rendered executivestyle leadership impractical.” Stated another way, too many chefs (councils and city/county managers) focus on revenue production in judging the value of our service.

Unless you work for an independent special district or have a special relationship with your governing authority, the likelihood of your agency keeping your increased revenues without losing a like amount of tax supported funds to another department is slim. Special districts, on the other hand, are a single purpose agency with their own taxing authority and the revenues gained from increased fees and charges will likely be used for park and recreation purposes, not for an additional city police officer, public works maintenance worker, or reducing taxes of the agency. As Tom Lovell, Lee’s Summit, Missouri administrator and 2010 Gold Medal Award winner stated in the same Managing Revenues article, “One concern is that if we start getting revenues the government will decide they won’t have to support us at all, and their support is critical.”

To Lovell’s point, John L. Crompton, a distinguished leader and researcher in recreation and park management, notes the downward spiral in tax support that occurs when park and recreation departments place more importance on generating revenue than on achieving their core mission. In “Community Benefits and Repositioning, the Keys to Park and Recreation’s Future Viability,” Crompton suggests that if agencies increase the priority of self-generated revenue objectives and reduce priority given to services with social merit, they provide less justification for public tax support, which therefore results in less tax support.

According to the research project by Jim Collins and Jerry I. Porras from the national best-selling book, Built to Last: Successful Habits of Visionary Companies, “deeds are more important than words.”

Collins and Porras suggest that in order to realize the vision, organizational leaders must “almost religiously preserve its core ideology -- its reason for being at all costs...if an organization is to meet the challenges of a changing world, it must be prepared to change everything about itself except its basic beliefs. The only sacred cow in an organization should be its basic philosophy of doing business.”

Recreation planning should be a process that classifies programs according to community needs and established core values. Based on best practices from around the country, recreation planning has expanded beyond organized athletic programs and now commonly encompasses objectives such as health and wellness, fitness, environmental stewardship, and creating a sense of community.

Professionals should strongly consider reviewing the 19 communitywide benefits as set forth in Crompton’s Community Benefits and Repositioning text as a backdrop for repositioning programs and facilities.

Indeed, it is park and recreation’s ability to meet broadly defined community issues that distinguish it from for-profit businesses. Let’s be true to our mission and core values first and foremost. Quality programs with outcomes that address the quality of life of the community is the best way to keep our agencies vital and essential. Our core values must always trump revenue generation.

If we are truly going to manage resources, we must become more strategic. It makes no sense to generate more revenues and then lose like amount of tax support. As the saying goes, “it is a little late when you get to the very top of the ladder, and then find out that it has not been leaning against the right wall.”

We must ask ourselves two critical questions in order to determine the agency’s true financial picture. One, have your tax supported funds been reduced or stagnated over the last five years? Two, are your fees and charges revenue included when you are asked to reduce your budget by 10-percent? If the answer to both is YES, you are not, I repeat not, making up for shrinking general (tax) funds.

You are falling further behind the financial 8-ball.

It is becoming increasingly clear that potential opportunities to enhance revenue are driving decisions about the mix and level of programs offered by the agency. We advocate that the ‘right wall’ is the agency’s mission. For example, Naperville, Illinois Park District’s mission is “to provide recreation and park experiences that enrich the quality of life of our community.” That’s the business most of us are in and if we forget that I believe we will have lost our way. We must focus more attention on program and facility outcomes based on our core values. We must never forget our ‘reason for being’ and ‘the business we are in.’

It is especially important to reinforce our core values in everything the agency does -- every policy, program, process, and procedure. While financial issues are critical to the operation, focusing on revenue generation instead of our ‘reason for being’ may well jeopardize that vision.

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