KRPA Today Winter 2011-12

Today WINTER 2011/12 Winter

KRPA

Kansas Recreation & Park Association

KRPA 2012 Award Winners Advocacy for Recreation & Parks

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Today

KRPA

Kansas Recreation & Park Association

Our Mission

Contents 2012 KRPA Legislative Platform Guide................... 8 Around KANSAS........................................................ 4

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

Field of Dreams: Bickle/Schmidt Sports Complex............................. 21

Our Vision

Discovering Kansas Parks....................................... 22

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

KRPA Award Winners............................................... 6

An affiliate of the National Recreation and Park Association

KRPA Partners with Kansas Lottery & Renowned artist........................................................ 18

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

KRPA Board of Directors

KRPA Rookie Conference Guide............................ 23 On Tour with Mike Buchanan................................ 12

President - Mike Buchanan (Manhattan) President-Elect - Ernie Shaw (Lawrence) Past President - Jill Geller (Johnson County) Secretary/Treasurer - Connie Smith (Emporia) Aquatics Branch - Ted Nelson (Hutchinson) Park Law Enforcement Branch - Josh DeHoux (KDWP) Therapeutic Recreation - Annette Deghand (Lawrence) Park and Natural Resources - Logan Wagler (Lenexa) Recreation Branch - Nathan Nogelmeier (Fairway)

Orienteering and the Art of Advocacy.................. 10

Members At Large

Future Pro Inc.............................................................. 2

West - John Washington (Garden City) Central - Brian Bascue (Newton) East - Brandy Shoemaker (Ottawa)

Committees/Ex Officio Awards - Connie Smith (Emporia) Citizens - Bob Johnson, Jr. (Blue Valley) Colleges and Universities - Clint Longacre (Emporia) Conference Planning - Ernie Shaw (Lawrence) Professional Development - Steve Herrig (Blue Valley) Public Policy - John Knight (Shawnee County) Youth Sports - Brent Peintner (Cheney) KDWP - Linda Lanterman (Pratt) Parliamentarian - Steve Friend (Baldwin)

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

Editorial Committee Chair - Chris Claxton (Leawood) Randy Knight (Johnson County) Roger Steinbrock (Lawrence) John Washington (Garden City) Brian Bascue (Newton) 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.

Q & A with Bob Johnson, Chairman of the NRPA Board of Directors..................................................... 16

Advertisers Bell Structural Solutions............................................ 2 Emporia Chamber & Visitors Bureau...................... 7 G. Farney & Associates.............................................. 3 Landscape Structures............................................... 17 Pernsteiner Creative Group, Inc............................. 20 Please support our advertisers, they make this publication possible. For information on advertising, contact Todd Pernsteiner at (877) 694-1999 or info@pernsteiner.com.

Cover illustration, oil on canvas: Renowned Kansas artist Louis Copt provided this painting of a biker at Tuttle Creek State Park in Manhattan, KS for our winter edition of KRPA Today. Copt has been working with KRPA to develop four landscape park scene paintings for the upcoming KRPA and Kansas Lottery scratch-off game, (see page 18). Tuttle Creek State Park is one of the four scenes that will be used among the paintings, which will be on display at the KRPA Conference and Trade Show.

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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.

For Clean, Clear Water, Call Gary OFFICE: (316) 315-0065 CELL: (316) 655-9513 FAX: (316) 315-0065 P.O. Box 780725

Wichita, KS 67278-0725

KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 3

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.

Six Earn KRPA Scholarships to Attend KRPA Conference and Trade Show The KRPA Scholarship Committee has selected six KRPA members for scholarships to attend the 2012 KRPA Conference and Trade Show in Topeka.

Recipients of scholarships include Amber Rogers (Garden City), Brice Soeken (Baldwin City), Kristin Larsen (Blue Valley Recreation), Taylor Burnett and Jessica Walters (Ottawa) and Kristi Breeze (Grant County). Recipients for KRPA scholarship are selected by the KRPA Scholarship Committee and funds come from the Larry Heeb Professional Development Fund. KRPA annually provides scholarship dollars for members to attend NRPA Congress, the KRPA Conference and other state or regional workshops.

To learn more about scholarship opportunities, visit www.krpa.org.

2012 KRPA Calendar of Events January 24-27 KRPA Conference and Trade Show (Topeka) March 7-9 CPSI Course (Shawnee) March 17-18 AFO Course (Derby) March 27-29 NRPA Legislative Forum (Washington, DC) April 29-May 1 Midwest Conference (Grand Forks, N.D.) May 16 Recreation Commission Budget and More Workshop (Topeka) August 16 Southwest Golf Tournament (Garden City) September 18-20 Tomorrow’s Leaders (Linwood) October 4 KRPA Golf Tournament (Leawood) October 16-20 NRPA Congress & Exposition (Anaheim, CA)

4 • KRPA Today - www.krpa.org

Coffeyville Recreation Commission, Community and Sherwin Williams Combine Efforts to Build New Skate Park Because of ongoing issues related to damage from young skaters in Coffeyville, Coffeyville Recreation Commission Director David Rains joined a committee of parents in the community to explore the possibility of building a new skate park. The effort brought forward a variety of creative funding concepts, corporate involvement and included having some of the younger skaters involved in helping develop possible designs.

During the process, the American Ramp Company (Joplin, MO.) brought a demo day to Coffeyville where skaters displayed their skills on actual ramps.

The fund raising effort expanded as the Junior Advisory Council, under the direction of the Coffeyville area Community Foundation, got involved in the project.

The Council, which consists of high school students who are interested in philanthropy, raised over $4,000 for the project. The City of Coffeyville also offered support, pledging $13,000 to the project along with the Coffeyville Recreation Commission Board of Directors.

To help spur the project, Rains contacted the Sherwin Williams Company about expanding a local park they dedicated in 2003. The plan

was to build the park on a concrete slab 124 feet by 85 feet. Making the park adjustment resulted in amending several permits through KDHE and also required the permission of the EPA. In addition, it would force moving fencing and other improvements. All totaled, the financial resources provided for the project by the Sherwin Williams Corporation topped $200,000.

To save on installation costs, the CRC staff assembled the park in four days with the supervision of the American Ramp Company.

The new Coffeyville Skate Park was officially dedicated Nov. 21.

Southwest Kansas Recreation Association Announces Scholarship Recipients Three area students were recognized for impressive school and/or community involvement by receiving scholarships from the Southwest Kansas Recreation Association. Those honored include Danielle Asmus of Garden City and Holcomb High School, who was awarded the $500 Second Semester Scholarship.

She worked for Holcomb Recreation Commission and plans to attend Oral Roberts University. Travis Leverett of Sublette will receive a $250 Second Semester Scholarship. A graduate of Sublette High School who also worked for SRC, Leverett plans on attending Seward County Community College.

Shalee Myers of Tribune will

also receive a $250 Second Semester Scholarship. She participated in numerous activities offered by Greeley County Recreation and plans on attending Barton County Community College. Funds for the scholarships are raised through the annual SKRA Golf Tournament in August.

KRPA Welcomes Six New Agency Directors New directors have been announced at six recreation commissions in Kansas. Taking on new leadership roles are Gary Scott (Eudora), Jennifer Tedder (Greensburg), Shandy Lopez (interim, Sublette), William Weber (Liberal), Tommy Sinks (interim, Ottawa) and Cody White (Wellington).

In addition, KRPA says goodbye to long-time director Jim Rice who retired in late December after 21 years of service in Chanute.

New KRPA Board of Directors goes through Orientation KRPA conducted its annual board orientation workshop Dec. 14 at Jayhawk Towers in Topeka for members of the 2012 KRPA Board of Directors. The event included an advocacy presentation by KRPA lobbyist Melissa Ness and a leadership presentation from Bill Nicks in the character of Dwight Eisenhower.

Johnson, Vance Assume Chair Positions KRPA Citizen Board Chair Bob Johnson, Jr. has been named Chairman of the 2011-12 NRPA Board of Directors (see story on page 12). Johnson, a two-time citizen board chair at Blue Valley Recreation, has served on the KRPA board for the past seven years.

KRPA Executive Director Doug Vance has been named as 2011-12 Chair of the Council of Executive Directors (CED).

The organization is made up of park and recreation state association executive directors from throughout the country.

Johnson and Vance officially took on their chair roles during the annual NRPA Congress.

Pictured are (from the left, back row) John Washington, Ted Nelson, Paul Lewis, Steve Friend, Skyler Rorabaugh, Ernie Shaw, Logan Wagler, Steve Herrig, Rob Gordon, Mike Buchanan and Brian Bascue; (Front row, from the left) Linda Lanterman, Cindy Crandall, Diann Henderson, Janice Jewett, Brandy Shoemaker, Rhonda Pollard, Connie Smith, Nancy Wallerstein and Amy Conkling. (Not pictured); John Knight, Brent Peintner and Bob Johnson, Jr.

Two New KRPA Branch Chairs Named Rob Gordon of Tuttle Creek State Park and Rhonda Pollard of Johnson County Park and Recreation District will take over branch leadership roles when the 2012 KRPA Board of Directors are sworn into office at the KRPA Conference. Gordon will serve as branch chair of the Kansas Park Law Enforcement

KRPA at NRPA Congress KRPA board member Skyler Rorabaugh, Turner Recreation (Top picture, on left) enjoyed an opportunity to meet NRPA Congress keynote speaker Tony Hawk while attending NRPA Congress in Atlanta, GA. Connie Smith, Emporia Recreation Commission and KRPA secretary/treasurer, took advantage of her trip to NRPA Congress to explore downtown Atlanta and pose with the “Dolphins on Parade” exhibit (Bottom picture, on right) that is on display at various locations in the city. The fiberglass dressed-up dolphin statues are a product of the Georgia Aquarium which is located in downtown Atlanta.

Branch. Pollard will assume the role of chair of the Therapeutic Recreation and Aging Branch. Gordon replaces Josh Dehoux, whose term as chair expires this year. Pollard replaces Annette Deghand (Lawrence) whose term as chair also expires this year.

Jill Geller Becomes First KRPA Member to Earn CPRE Jill Geller of Johnson County Park and Recreation District recently earned the Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) certification granted by the National Certification Board in conjunction with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). The CPRE program recognizes advanced skills and competencies related to the professional practice and delivery of park and recreation programs and services.

Jill is among the first ever to earn this new certification. To earn the CPRE certification, individuals must hold a current Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification, meet specific requirements for education and experience, and successfully pass an exam covering a comprehensive set of topics including communication, finance, human resources, operations and planning.

CPRE establishes a national standard for managerial, administrative and executive parks and recreation professionals and focuses on the practical knowledge and current real-world skills necessary in today’s changing park and recreation environment.

It signifies to the public that the leaders of park and recreation agencies seek to uphold the highest standards of service for the communities they serve.

KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 5

Zeka, Meadors, Henderson and Harmon KRPA Award Winners KRPA and its members will pay tribute to meaningful achievements and significant contributions to park and recreation in Kansas during its annual Awards Luncheon at the 2012 KRPA Conference and Trade Show in Topeka.

The KRPA Awards Committee, chaired by Connie Smith (Emporia), has selected eight individuals or organizations and the KRPA Executive Committee has selected one hall of fame recipient to be honored at the Jan. 26 Awards of Excellence Luncheon.

Betty Zeka, who spent 31 years at Hutchinson Recreation Commission, will be the 34th KRPA Hall of Fame inductee. She joins Barbara Schaible (1987, Wichita) and Marlene Natoli (2009, Olathe) as just the third female to enter the hall of fame.

Zeka, who retired in July 2011, served as KRPA President in 2009 and won the distinguished Professional award in 2005.

Michael Meadors, director at Johnson County Park and Recreation District who has worked in parks and recreation for 32 years, has been selected for the Distinguished Fellow Award. Meadors was selected for the Distinguished Professional Award in 1995 and served as KRPA President in 1993.

Diann Henderson, director at Great Bend Recreation Commission, is this year’s winner of the Distinguished Professional Award. Henderson, who has a 29-year career in parks and recreation, will serve as chair of the Administrative Branch on the 2012 KRPA Board of Directors.

Dawn Harmon, who serves as marketing supervisor at Blue Valley Recreation Commission, has been named Distinguished New Professional.

Also being recognized are Scott Gill of Winfield (Distinguished Board/Commission), Bruce Snead of Manhattan (Distinguished Elected Official), Cliff Metzger of Salina (Distinguished Volunteer), Marilynn Luttrell of Blue Valley (Distinguished Service) and the KC Wildlands of Johnson County (Distinguished Public Service).

6 • KRPA Today - www.krpa.org

Capsule of

Award Winners Hall of Fame

Betty Zeka joined the Hutchinson Recreation Commission as a Kansas State University intern in January, 1980, and remained at HRC until her retirement last year. She was hired as assistant sports supervisor in 1980 and was promoted to sports director in 1983. In 1992 she was promoted to assistant director of the agency, a position she held until her retirement in July 2011.

Betty served as KRPA president in 2009.

Distinguished Fellow

Michael Meadors joined the staff at Johnson County Park and Recreation in 1986 after previously working at Emporia Recreation Commission and Olathe Parks and Recreation.

He served as the superintendent of recreation during his first 15 years at JCPRD and was instrumental in the acquisition and construction of numerous facilities. He was promoted to director of parks and recreation in 2001 and has provided leadership and support in the acquisition of more than 4,000 acres of new parkland and building or improvement of several major facilities, including Mid-America West Sports Complex and Okun Fieldhouse, and the construction of TimberRidge Adventure Center and New Century Fieldhouse. Michael served as KRPA president in 1983.

Distinguished Professional

Diann Henderson has worked in parks and recreation for the past 29 years and currently serves as chair of the KRPA Administration Branch. She has also been active as a member of the Recreation Branch since 2008 and served on the conference planning committee for the 1996 conference.

Distinguished New Professional

Dawn Harmon plays a significant role in promoting and marketing activities at Blue Valley Recreation Commission. She has been a valuable contributor in support of KRPA since joining the BVRC staff three years ago. She has written numerous articles for KRPA Today and coordinated the KRPA Rec Chat, an online communications tool to share marketing ideas. She has also been a facilitator and presenter at state conferences.

Distinguished Volunteer Award

Cliff Metzger volunteers countless hours of service to Salina Parks and Recreation. He has organized the Table Tennis Club for 25 years and also teaches badminton and pickleball and helps with the Play Tennis program in Salina.

Distinguished Public Service Award KC WildLands is a partnership organization comprised of public land management organizations, natural resource missioned not-for-profit organizations and for-profit business/corporations. The organization was formed to bring attention to connections with our natural heritage and to solicit and coordinate the resources needed to preserve them for future generations.

Distinguished Board or Commission Member Award Scott Gill has served on the Winfield Recreation Commission since 1999 and just recently agreed to another four-year term.

He has served as chair since 2002. He has also been a member of the Winfield Youth Soccer Organization for 21 years, serving as president for 19 years.

Distinguished Elected Official Bruce Snead has been an active supporter of parks and recreation in Manhattan during his 16-year career as a city commissioner and also during his four terms as major. He has supported the development of two new parks in Manhattan. His leadership was instrumental in the funding and development of the recently constructed Flint Hills Discovery Center in Manhattan.

The Attack from Blue Valley Win KRPA Youth Sports Team Award The Attack, a 7th grade volleyball team that plays in the Blue Valley Recreation Commission youth sports leagues, has been selected to receive the KRPA Youth Sports Team Award for 2011. Each year, the KRPA Youth Sports Committee selects one team in Kansas to be honored for its sportsmanship as demonstrated by the team members, coaches and parents.

The Attack is coached by Denise Andrews, who is in her 11th year coaching youth volleyball in leagues sponsored by BVRC. In addition to their competition, team members have also participated in a fund raising event for children with special needs and have volunteered to be mentors for a 4th grade volleyball team. They have also participated in Light the Night Walk which benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and also in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at Oxford. Several are also involved in missionary work through church with a future trip planned to help provide support in Joplin, MO. Team members include Lindsay Amick, Taylor Victorine, Katie Dean, Sarah Callahan, Kylie Young, Emory Mathes, Lizzy Young, Jill Fisher and Lilly Inman.

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CALL 800-279-3730 | CLICK emporiakschamber.org TEXT Emporia to 71297 (standard txt msg rates apply) KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 7

2012 KRPA LEGISLATIVE PLATFORM Guide Advocating for Recreation and Parks in Kansas Economic Value Funds spent in Kansas recreation and park programs or facilities, activities and employees return $1.70 for every $1 invested, according to a recent economic impact study conducted through the University of Kansas School of Business.

Real estate values in Kansas communities are consistently higher when located next to or near local parks. This increase in private property value due to the proximity to parks increases property tax revenues and improves local economies.

Parks and protected public lands are proven to improve water quality, protect groundwater, prevent flooding, improve the quality of the air we breathe, provide vegetative buffers to development, produce habitat for wildlife, and provide a place for children and families to connect with nature and recreate outdoors together.

Quality recreation and parks are cited as one of the top three reasons that businesses cite in relocation decisions in a number of studies.

Recreations and Parks ARE Essential Services!

Recreation and parks have three significant values that make them essential services to all communities in Kansas 1. Economic value 2. Health and Environmental benefits 3. Social importance Parks in Kansas are vital in establishing and maintaining the quality of life in a community, ensuring the health of families, youth and senior citizens, and contributing to the economic and environmental well-being of a community and a state.

Recreation and park programs generate revenue directly from fees and charges, but more importantly, provide significant indirect revenues to local and regional economies from sports tournaments and special events such as arts, music, and holiday festivals. Economic activity from hospitality expenditures, tourism, fuel, recreational equipment sales, and other private sector business is of true and sustained value to local and regional economies.

Recreation and parks offer healthy lifestyle benefits to its users at a significantly reduced cost and as a result has a substantial impact in reducing the overall cost of health care for citizens and state agencies.

Health and Environmental Benefits

A growing body of research demonstrates that the cumulative amount of physical activity obtained from park and recreation agencies is huge and provides a wide variety of health benefits.

Communities that take pride in their quality of life and promote themselves as an attractive location for businesses to relocate, or maintain that they are environmental stewards of their natural resources are generally communities that also have a robust and active system of parks and recreation programs for public use and enjoyment.

Recreation and park programs and services contribute to the health of children, adults and seniors.

Local government recreation and park agencies and state parks serve millions of Kansans and tourists each year at parks, open spaces and recreation facilities, and through healthy programs for children, adults and senior citizens.

How close a person lives to a park or recreation opportunity has a dramatic impact on whether or not they participate and how frequently they participate.

8 • KRPA Today - www.krpa.org

Studies show the number and size of parks and playgrounds in a community are positively related to physical activity levels. Counties with more facilities and acreage devoted to recreation have a lower proportion of the population reporting insufficient physical activity.

A study by Penn State University showed significant correlations to reductions in stress, lowered blood pressure, and perceived physical health to the length of stay in visits to parks.

Social Importance

Parks are a tangible reflection of the quality of life in a community. They provide identity for citizens and are a major factor in the perception of quality of life in a community.

Recreation and park services are often cited as one of the most important factors in surveys of how livable communities are.

Parks provide gathering places for families and social groups, as well as for individuals for all ages and economic status, regardless of their ability to pay for access.

Access to parks and recreation opportunities has been strongly linked to reductions in crime and to reduced juvenile delinquency.

Parks have a value to communities that transcend the amount of dollars invested or the revenues gained from fees. Parks provide a sense of public pride and cohesion to every community.

Recreation and park programs provide places for health and well-being that are accessible by persons of all ages and abilities, especially to those with disabilities.

An ongoing study by the Trust for Public Land shows that over the past decade, voter approval rates for bond measures to acquire parks and conserve open space exceeds 75%. Clearly, the majority of the public views parks as an essential priority for government spending.

2012 KRPA Policy Priorities KRPA supports the continued use of the local alcohol tax fund for local units of government. Created by the legislature in 1979, this funding source is vital to park and recreation agencies throughout Kansas in sustaining significant programming, facilities and staffing. The Revenue Department sends 70% of dollars collected from the sale of alcohol back to the communities from which the sale originated.

It’s then split into three equal shares with one-third to the general fund, one-third to a special drug and alcohol program and one-third to parks and recreation.

KRPA joins with NRPA in the support of federal legislation specifying a minimum of 40% of LWCF (Land and Water Conservation Fund) funds are to be allocated to the State Assistance Program annually and Provide full and dedicated funding for the LWCF at the maximum amount authorized by law ($900 million annually).

KRPA joins with NRPA as an advocate in maintaining current federal investment levels in the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program in FY12 appropriations.

checks on volunteer coaches as a way to enhance a safe environment for our youth to participate in activities and sports.

KRPA endorses funding initiatives that support the enhancement of our state and local parks and the natural resources they offer that are significant to our citizens and visitors.

KRPA is an advocate of programs that reduce obesity, particularly those initiatives that target childhood obesity.

KRPA supports continued uniformity in recreation commission statues and will assist the legislature in instances where consideration is give to changes in the statues (such as school district consolidation as it may impact recreation commissions).

KRPA supports legislation that would prohibit a convicted child sex offender from entering the legal premises of any public or private facility whose primary purpose is to provide for the education, care or recreation of children. This includes, but is not limited to, community and recreation centers, playgrounds, schools, swimming pools and state, city and county parks.

KRPA will oppose any attempts that may be made to further restrict trail development of abandoned rail lines.

KRPA supports the passage of the Urban Revitalization and Livable Communities Act (URLC) by Congress to make urban areas healthier, more livable, and economically competitive through the revitalization and development of parks, green space, and recreation opportunities.

KRPA supports the concept of encouraging organizations that sponsor sports activities for children to do background

1. Public Parks Recreation and park agencies deliver essential public services and provide recreation opportunities for nearly every community in Kansas. KRPA advocates for local, state and federal investments that provide funding for the acquisition, development, and rehabilitation of parks and public lands as well as recreational infrastructure and resources.

2. Health & Wellness for ALL People of ALL Abilities KRPA believes that opportunities for active recreation are critical to an individual’s and a community’s health and wellness. We advocate for legislation that supports the growing role of public parks and recreation in improving individual and community health through increased physical activity, the prevention of chronic disease, the rehabilitation of wounded service members, and the opportunities for the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in all activities.

4. Children and Nature KRPA regards improving children’s access to nature as a national policy priority. KRPA believes that public parks and recreation are vital to the national effort to provide safe, healthy ways to explore nature and enhance environmental education.

KRPA endorses the reauthorization of the Surface Transportation Act at the federal level, maintaining key programs and funding to promote livable and sustainable communities.

KRPA supports the recommendations offered in the Kansans for Children in Nature Plan which encourage state and community involvement in the development of comprehensive initiatives which enhance our children’s access to nature.

Recreation and park resources protect our environment, preserve wildlife habitat, strengthen local economies, attract new businesses, contribute to the local tax base, increase property values, and improve the physical and mental health of citizens of all ages. Recognizing the many significant roles of parks and recreation within communities, KRPA has developed a set of guiding policy principles which direct our advocacy efforts:

3. Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability Parks and outdoor recreation lands are the essential green infrastructure of our communities and nation.

Parks and public recreation lands are carbon-reducing landscapes that help clean our air and water, recharge aquifers, and reduce stormwater runoff. Through energy, climate change, and other legislative measures, we advocate for dedicated resources that will sustain, protect, restore, and expand these environmental assets.

KRPA endorses the enactment of legislation which supports environmental and outdoor education in our state’s K-12 public schools. Such legislation should ensure state and local park and recreation agencies are eligible to partner with education agencies for the development of a State Environmental Literacy Plan, professional development of teachers, and the strengthening of environmental education curriculums.

KRPA encourages the reinstatement of the Local Government Outdoor Recreation Grant Program (LGORGP), a matching funding resource for agencies to improve recreation facility renovation or development.

Guiding Policy Principles

5. Transportation and Livable Communities KRPA places a high priority on national policies that encourage walking, biking, and the development of alternative transportation networks that will create more livable and healthy communities.

KRPA: Represents over 1,000 Recreation and Park Professionals and Citizen Board Members KRPA is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of healthy lifestyles in Kansas communities through the wise use of recreation and the stewardship of parks and natural resources. KRPA represents nearly 1,000 members, comprised of professionals and citizens striving to offer quality recreation opportunities for all Kansans, while protecting and preserving the state’s natural resources so future generations can experience Kansas as it is today.

KRPA, with members in nearly every county in the state, encourages its members to assist their elected and appointed officials in consideration and review of pending and current legislation related to park and recreation issues.

The 2012 KRPA Public Policy Advocacy Team Melissa Ness - Lobbyist, Connections Unlimited, Inc. 212 SW 8th Ave. Suite102, Topeka, KS. 66603 Phone: 785-554-8864 mlness@connections-unlimited.net Doug Vance - KRPA Executive Director 785-235-6533, doug@krpa.org Ernie Shaw - KRPA President Lawrence Parks and Recreation 785-832-3453, eshaw@lawrenceks.org John Knight - Public Policy Co-Chair Shawnee County Parks and Recreation 785-267-1156 x12, John.knight@snco.us Nancy Wallerstein - Public Policy Co-Chair Johnson County Park and Recreation District Citizen Board Member ghostlight@kc.rr.com

KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 9

Orienteering and the Art of Advocacy

“Orienteering: The crossing of an unknown land with the aide of a map and a compass...this competition or race is intended to test the navigational skill, concentration, and running ability of the competitors. High levels of fitness are often required and to ensure fairness between competitors the map is not usually provided until the start. Starts are normally staggered with competitors starting at different intervals. And, oh yes, there is a range of courses with several control points along the way.”

By Melissa Ness

F

or many of you including my husband, this defines the sport of orienteering. For me however, I couldn’t find a better description of what I do for 90-days during the Kansas legislative session.

I hadn’t considered the parallels of “advocacy” to “orienteering” until I was asked to write an article on advocacy. In fact, they are startling. Advocacy fitness, a good advocacy compass, navigational skill, control points, choosing the right route and starting with the end in mind, all are meaningful in both events.

Building advocacy fitness Recently, we polled the KRPA membership to get a true picture of how everyone understands the need for advocacy. To my delight, we discovered that 98% of the people responding to the survey believed that it’s important for KRPA play a role in advocacy with 85% saying that education and lobbying are important dimensions to that role. And, given that parks and recreation ARE essential services, 90% of the survey respondents believed that the level of advocacy in the organization should be high. This commitment or “advocacy fitness” of the KRPA membership provides an essential foundation for navigating the public policy environment in Kansas.

10 • KRPA Today - www.krpa.org

Having a good map Another common dimension of advocacy and orienteering is having a good map.

For KRPA, there are three significant values that make park and recreation services essential to all communities in Kansas. Those values are economic impact, health and environmental benefit and social importance.

Given this clear and commanding framework, it is imperative that the public policy work done and carried out by this organization reflects those values and/or can be tied directly to expanding and improving specific outcomes in each of those areas.

Too many organizations lose sight of their “map” during the course of a legislative session, which is easy to do. Having a sound framework and clear message about who you are and your demonstrated value will keep you on course and help you make decisions on the run during the session.

The competition When asked about what should be considered in determining what advocacy work the organization should undertake, one respondent said “We have to be realistic and practical in understanding where we are [in line] when it comes to budget and dollars to our organization or issue.” In other words, demonstrating the value of service and benefit is not enough when it comes to dividing up the state budget pie. What is important is being able to understand and affect “where you fall on the continuum of spending priorities and how you demonstrate you should be higher on the radar screen in the state.”

As in orienteering, when you advocate you rarely see your competition when you contact legislators, meet with them in person, or attend an event with organizations that have similar interests. But you know they are out there. You are one of many interest groups, contract lobbyists, advocacy organizations, and individuals bringing issues to the table each session.

In addition, the issues of the day in each session drive the level of activity and of legislators, legislative committees and the Governor. For example, during the upcoming 2012 session, redistricting, a new state Medicaid plan, agency restructuring and modifying our tax structure at this point are taking center stage. Having said that, knowing the competition allows you to look for areas of common ground, compatibility and

agreement. By way of example, because of the support KRPA receives from the use of the local alcohol tax fund for local units of government, this vital source of funding lends itself to a high level of activity and search for compatibility among partners and allies.

The compass and other critical tools Basic knowledge about how and when the legislature operates is a must for those who wish to influence the outcomes of the decisions made in the legislative arena. One of the best resources or compasses for navigating and understanding the legislature and the legislative process can be found at www.kansas.gov.

This non-partisan information site tells you everything you need to know about the process, people and information needed for the Executive, Administrative and Legislative branches in Kansas. Access to information has improved exponentially through the investment in this website and it continues to become more user friendly.

All KRPA members are encouraged to visit it periodically, especially during the session.

Written talking points, periodic briefings on legislative events or activities regular legislative updates, and assistance with visits to legislators are important tools for public policy engagement through your organization or others. And, of course, information is only helpful if it is used...to educate, understand, or act. Your membership also identified these tools as ones that would be important in increasing engagement of the membership in advocacy and public policy work.

The control points Throughout the race, orienteers watch for the designated “control points”. An orienteer is given a control description sheet or clue sheet that gives the precise description of the feature they are looking for. When budgets and bills are drafted and worked by the legislature, and submitted to the governor there are many points of influence or “control points” along the way. Legislative Procedure in Kansas1, is a basic primer that gives you important process and protocol points for the legislature. Legislative deadlines also help you gauge and time your legislative activity. They too can be found on www.kansas.gov. Becoming familiar with the process through your association, can help you make the necessary “midcourse” corrections so that you stay on the “right route”.

Don’t forget: It’s your event and you determine success!

As with orienteering, the competitor with the fastest time often is the one that is recognized for the win. However there are other scoring models as there are in advocacy.

Winning is not all about budgets and bills.

It is also about having sound relationships with decision makers, building trust and maintaining your integrity on issues, being a resource as questions arise, and seeing how legislators understand the value you bring and are now champions on making you a priority. These are all measures of success of individuals and organizations committed to seeing that investments, laws and policies set a positive foundation for ensuring that parks and recreation are indeed ESSENTIAL services to the well being and productivity of Kansans.

Editors Note: Melissa Ness is the founder and President of Connections Unlimited, Inc. A strategic advocacy, organization capacity and leadership support firm. Her degrees in Music Therapy, Social Work and Law have given her valuable “orienteering skills” in the advocacy realm that have allowed her to experience success in the public policy and advocacy arena for over 20 years. She provides advocacy and public policy support to KRPA. 1 Can be found online at www.kansas.org or obtained in hard copy from the Legislative Research Department at the Statehouse

KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 11

Q&A

Bob Johnson, Jr. takes leadership role of NRPA Board of Directors

Only one park and recreation state association will have the NRPA Board of Directors Chair seated at the table for their board meetings in 2012 and that association happens to be KRPA. NRPA announced in December that KRPA Citizens Branch chair and twotime Blue Valley Recreation Commission board chair Bob Johnson, Jr. would serve as 2012 Chairman of the NRPA Board of Directors.

“Bob is passionate about parks and recreation and has a clear vision of the impact we have on the livelihood of all Americans – especially when it comes to health and wellness,” said Barbara Tulipane, NRPA president and CEO. “With his leadership and the input of the many talented individuals that make up our Board of Directors, I am confident that NRPA will continue to be a catalyst for healthier, more active and engaged communities.”

Johnson, who has been involved in parks and recreation as a citizen board member, has been on the KRPA board for seven years and the NRPA board for six years.

The NRPA Board of Directors is moving to a single board leader in the chair position this year. In adopting a new governance structure, NRPA eliminated the role of president on the board which will now be held by Tulipane. NRPA’s goal with streamlining the board positions is to ensure a more responsive and member-oriented leadership approach.

In taking over his important role as chair of the NRPA Board of Directors, Johnson offered his thoughts on the year ahead and other issues of interest that related to parks and recreation.

12 • KRPA Today - www.krpa.org

Can you explain your role as chair of the NRPA Board of Directors?

“I’m one of 21 people serving on the NRPA board and we approach this as a team effort.

Our role is to act and think strategically and focus on the mission, vision and goals for the organization. Essentially, I serve as the conduit between the board, Barbara, the staff and the membership. Although, it should be stated, that all board members are accessible to everyone and we encourage the members to reach out to any of the board members.”

What motivated you to get involved as a citizen board member on a local level and then continue to serve at both the state and national level?

“I first became a citizen board member 25 years ago and I’ve stayed involved because I keep getting asked to serve...and, because I’m enjoying myself so much, I haven’t turned anyone down. I’ve continued to be impressed by the value of what I see in park and recreation professions and the services they provide. Parks, recreation and conservation represent the lifeblood of many communities.

I believe so much in the quality of life that park and recreation gives to each community and how important that is for everyone.

I’m proud to be a small part in an industry that is significant in enhancing the welfare of our citizens.”

What are NRPA’s top priorities for coming year?

“There are three basic priorities for parks and recreation that underscore and guide the goals we set forth and address in moving forward this year. First is the economic model or how communities pay for their park and recreation services. The second is grass roots advocacy and strategies we can support in making parks and recreation more relevant on a local, state and national level.

Finally, we need to build on the importance of conservation in this country, the role our agencies play, and how we can build more sustainable communities in the future. We need to make our communities a better place to live and grow for tomorrow’s generation.”

Why is it important for KRPA members to support and be involved in NRPA? “There is an abundance of reasons, but I believe it all boils down to being a part of a bigger voice that is committed to support parks and recreation. There are certainly values related to advocacy, to education and knowledge. It’s much like joining KRPA. It gives you a support network so you are not

dealing with all of these issues alone as one small organization. It allows you to become a bigger part of the pie and participate in the process which, in turn, helps you grow as an organization and as a professional on behalf of your community.”

Would you offer advice for other citizen board members in KRPA as it relates to your experience being involved in leadership?

“Get involved! We need your voice and your support. This is an industry in which citizens who are consumers of park and recreation services can have a bigger voice in how it operates. We need more citizen involvement at this level.”

What has been the most satisfying experience you’ve had from your involvement on the board with KRPA and NRPA? “That’s an easy one. It’s the people I’ve had an opportunity to meet and work with. The aspect that probably has kept me involved is seeing how passionate parks and recreation people are about their profession. They love what they do and it shows. I’ve had the good fortune to meet and work with individuals all across the country and they all have one thing in common – they care deeply about what they do and they are committed to doing it better.”

What strikes you most about parks and recreation that you feel is sometimes taken for granted?

“Most people out there have a memory from a past involvement related to parks and recreation that they’ve carried with them all their lives. This organization has played such an important role in helping formulate positive growth for so many people. Quite often, it was their first job. It’s a profession that touches so many lives and impacts communities in such a positive fashion.”

What advice would you offer to park and recreation professionals who are struggling with what they perceive as a lack of local support in their community?

“Go ask for help. Every agency has a “white knight” in their community who can play a leadership role and help rally support. You can’t just sit back and wait. It’s not going to happen if you don’t get grass roots support for your cause. It’s a difficult and challenging environment and dealing with the politics on a local, state and national level is certainly not easy. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and build your advocacy network.”

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t’s probably no secret that the task of serving as president of KRPA comes with ups and downs, opportunities and challenges, and various risks and rewards.

When I agreed to have my name included on the election ballot, I expected to make a few sacrifices, and to face some burdens. At the same time, I knew there would be a sharp, uphill learning curve for me, winding itself around an array of personal growth and professional profit.

One of those payback moments occurred during mid-Autumn, when I had the pleasure of experiencing the KRPA President’s Tour.

nity to tour their recreation amenities. I welcomed the occasion to visit with Scott Scherberger, Reed Scott and Caite Kendrick to see what military recreation had to offer. The highlight was definitely the Warrior Zone, a fantastic $10,000,000

Stop 1 Fort Riley

On the morning of October 18, I joined the entourage – Bonnie Simon, Doug Vance, and our chauffeur deluxe, Sue Vance – as we embarked on our adventure and headed west.

Our first stop was the Department of Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) at Fort Riley. Personally, I was looking forward to visiting the facilities there because I’ve lived in Manhattan for almost 40 years, and I’ve never found an opportu-

From Left: Bonnie Simon, Doug Vance, Mike Buchanan, Mark Desmet, Reed Scott, Scott Scherberger and Catie Kendrick

state-of-the-art technology center. It was absolutely impressive, but not necessarily for the most apparent reasons.

As many of us are aware, one of the major points of emphasis for KRPA and NRPA is getting folks - particularly young folks – healthy and thriving through active participation. Campaigns such as Forget the box – think outside, No Child Left Inside, GOPLAY Kansas, Kansans for Children in Nature, Making Recreation and Parks a Priority – all are proof of the relevance and significance that our industry plays in this initiative.

The Warrior Zone, however, was designed and constructed to do just the opposite – to get clients inside, in front of the monitor, engaging in “recreation by technology”. Lest we think the MWR folks are ignoring the message, let’s remember that another important element of our profession is giving customers what they want. That, in a nutshell, is what the Warrior Zone is all about.

– Continued on page 14

KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 13

The second stop in the tour was planned to provide an opportunity for us to meet one of the new guys on the block – in this instance, the Parks & Recreation Director in Salina, Dion Louthan. Dion has roots in Kansas – a Hugoton Eagle for a spell – but has served for the past several years as the Recreation Director in Henderson, Nevada, just a short roll of the dice from the Las Vegas.

I was looking forward to visiting with Dion, and extending all the grace and schmooze that KRPA has to offer. After all, one of my major roles as the next Past-President will be to encourage follow professionals to have their names added to the election ballot for 2013. “Dion for President” – sounds good, yes?

Stop 2 Salina

From Left: Chris Curtis, Mike Buchanan, Bonnie Simon and Doug Vance

A large percentage of Ft. Riley’s population is the single, 18-22 year old, that has grown up in the social media/gaming culture. According to Mr. Sherberger, this is what they want - a place to convene to communicate, participate, and – in my case – salivate over the remarkable technological gadgets available to the clients. The Warrior Zone is brand new, so the impact has yet to be fully measured. In my opinion, KRPA should give the DOA, through the MWR, a big OMG for the TLC they show their PVT’s and SGT’s (among others).

n

o Stop 3 McPhers

Actually, as it turned out, Dion was taken away by unavoidable business responsibilities, so our meet and greet was short and sweet. In his place, Chris Curtis graciously offered to play tour-guide. And, just as importantly, lunch host! We scoped out several of the SPRD facilities, including Kenwood Cove, their new aquatic park which, despite being waterless and people-less, was impressive nonetheless. Chris then brought us to lunch at Martinelli’s in downtown Salina; walking in and seeing the number of folks waiting to be seated, I knew we were in for a treat. It was definitely worth the wait!

Chris Curtis for President? That sounds mighty good, too!

At our next destination, we had the opportunity to jointly address two other themes that are common, and often controversial, to the Parks & Recreation industry – duplication of services, and private vs public. We steered south from Salina to McPherson to meet with the Director of the Recreation Commission, Gwen Muto, along with Paul Kratzer from the McPherson Parks Department. I looked forward to speaking to Gwen

Stop 4 Great Bend

From Left: Bonnie Simon, Diann Henderson, Mike Buchanan, Garet Fitzpatrick, Megan Hammeke, Chris Umphres and Doug Vance

about the challenges she faces working in a community with a strong YMCA presence, and how she confronts those issues. It didn’t take long to find the answer, though – when we learned that her office is actually in the YMCA facility, it was evident that the cooperation between the Recreation Commission and the YMCA was indeed mutually favorable. Obviously, those that gain the most from this wise and generous arrangement are the patrons of McPherson – a great model for all to follow!

After touring the ball diamond complex in McPherson (another super facility, but I felt sorry for the fellas that showed up to practice baseball in 48 degree weather with 30 mph winds), Sue pointed the van west on highway 56 and headed for Great Bend.

During this hour-long ride, I found out that Doug is a regular “DWTS” devotee, and has a secret desire to be partners with Karina Smirnoff. Doug Vance, you party animal!

Actually, I made up the Karina Smirnoff thing, but he does watch the show every week. Me? Well, perhaps maybe...

From Left: Doug Vance, Paul Kratzer, Gwen Muto, Mike Buchanan and Bonnie Simon

14 • KRPA Today - www.krpa.org

Diann Henderson was our host in Great Bend, and the one thing I recall more than anything else was the pride that was on display as she showed us two of her new facili-

ties. The first was the GBRC Activity Center, an old school that has been refurbished and remodeled into a sleek, modern community facility. As we ambled through the building, I couldn’t help but feel a bit envious of what the Great Bend community had accomplished through Diann’s leadership. Those feelings of pride were even more evident when we toured the GBRC Sports Complex ballpark, but not just from Diann. She had arranged for several city administrators to meet us at the complex.

Obviously, for folks in those leadership positions to take time to meet us shows a great deal of passion and sense of satisfaction for their facility. It is truly amazing what can be accomplished when community leaders share the same vision, and can translate that vision into a source of public enhancement and well-being. In Great Bend, recreation and parks is most assuredly a priority!

was much appreciated by us. We spent about ten minutes in the office, and watching the HRC staff interact for even that short span of time showed that Roger had developed a working environment that was very positive and productive. They seemed to really like one another – how vital is that for providing incentive to work hard for your community? It’s a simple equation: good boss + good peers + good environment = great product.

Oh, and a heaping helping of fresh, hot, homemade monkey bread certainly does help!

It’s a simple equation: good boss + good peers + good environment = great product.

After bidding farewell to the good folks in Great Bend, the next destination on the tour was Hays, America. The 70-minute ride was spent reminiscing about the day’s events, the general itinerary for day number 2, and further deep discourse about the societal impact of Tuesday night reality television.

After a day filled with new places, new faces, community sharing, and community caring, Tuesday’s presidential tour day started with a visit to Roger Bixenmann and the Hays Recreation Commission. The aspect that best describes my memory of the HRC stopover was family – the sense of togetherness and belonging that was very apparent amongst the staff. We spent some time – the better part of an hour - checking out a few of the great facilities and talking about the general state of affairs in Hays.

That was all good, but the lasting impression I have is the few minutes spent with Roger and his staff at their office. I couldn’t help but feel all George Bush-like (sorry, Mr. Obama, but we’re in Republican country!) when we walked in to find them all awaiting our arrival, dressed in black HRC polos and khaki trousers. Very professional, very welcoming, very impressive. Our visit was noticeably important to them, which

Destination #6 of the 2011 tour was Russell, Kansas, and a meeting with Michael Blanke, Director of the Russell Recreation Commission.

It was here that I garnered my most profound memory of the entire journey. We met Mike at his office, which

is housed in an old National Guard armory.

After meeting his support staff of one, he proceeded to show us the rest of the building. Frankly, it wasn’t much to look at because there wasn’t much to see; a typical armory structure familiar to many communities throughout the state. Now, at this point on the tour we’d seen some really nice recreation amenities, all worthy of raves and flattering boasts. But, none

Stop 5 Hays

Front row, from left: Gail Wickham, Jill Mall, Kristen Koster, Missy Droegemier, Jeff Boyle (City of Hays Parks Director) Back row, from left: Lynn Maska-HRC Board member, Grant Lacy, Tarica Nehls, Ben Moeckel, Roger Bixenman, Kyle Emerson, Aaron Nuss. Also shown are Bonnie Simon, Mike Buchanan and Doug Vance

of the folks in charge of those shiny, novel facilities spoke with the same passion that Michael did when describing his vision for this old armory. Yes, there was much work to be done, but the excitement in his voice when he talked about the potential that this offered to the citizens of Russell – that is my most vivid memory. It was very inspirational and motivating to listen to someone speak from the heart about their desire. After a few minutes, we ventured outside to take a photograph, and we found a playground with a sign that had the word “DREAM” on it. How appropriate, I thought, for – Continued on page 16

Stop 6 Russell

From Left: Bonnie Simon, Michael Blanke, Mike Buchanan and Doug Vance

KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 15

Stop 7 W i

h Stop 8 Ellswort

lson

From Left: Ronnie Tenbrink, Bonnie Simon, Mike Buchanan and Doug Vance

From Left: Mike Buchanan, Bonnie Simon, Doug Vance and Willis Ohl

Mr. Michael Blanke and the Russell Recreation Commission!

Upon departing from Russell, the presidential caravan hopped back on to I-70 and headed east toward Wilson, Kansas, with our next stop being Wilson Lake State Park. Doug had set up the itinerary so that we arrived in Wilson right at lunch time, where we were set to meet our host, Willis Ohl from Wilson State Lake. The name of the restaurant – Made From Scratch – led us to believe that we were in for some old-fashioned central Kansas home style cooking and hospitality, and we were not disappointed. Even though I was mildly discouraged that they were out of pecan pie, the experience certainly equaled the expectations.

Now, I must say that I’ve traveled on I-70 about a gazillion times, trudging on through what seems like an endless stretch of concrete between Salina and all points west. I’ve seen Lake Wilson on the atlas, and never really thought much about it. Thus, as we headed north on Highway 232 toward the park, I was amazed at the astounding change of scenery just a few miles north of the interstate. It was almost as if a miniature version of the Grand Canyon had been randomly placed among the plains of north central Kansas. I never realized this treasure existed so close to a path I had traveled so many times, and it made me appreciate the efforts to maintain and preserve our natural wonders. Thank goodness for individuals like Willis Ohl who get it, and live it, and work it on a daily basis.

It was almost as if a miniature version of the Grand Canyon had been randomly placed among the plains of north central Kansas.

16 • KRPA Today - www.krpa.org

Seven stops down, and one more to go.

Up next on the agenda was a stop at the Ellsworth Recreation Commission to chat with the head man there, Ronnie Tenbrink.

Ellsworth turned out to be a perfect place to end the tour because it assimilated so many of the facets featured during the two days; small town charm, hospitality, pride, cooperation, work ethic, respect for the past, vision for the future, and family values.

Ronnie certainly had concerns, as many of us do, about the uncertainty of the economy and the pending impact on school-districtbased budgets. At the same time, he expressed the confidence that comes from midwestern values and community pride.

And so ended the 2011 KRPA President’s tour…two days that, for me, reassured and reconfirmed the reasons why we’ve all chosen to work in this field. There are certainly issues, concerns, problems, and anxiety.

In many ways, the future of our industry is uncertain. But, as I expected to see, there is also dedication, vision, commitment to succeed, and teamwork.

As we drove those last few miles into Manhattan, along McDowell Creek Road as it skirts the Kansas River, soaking in all of the glorious color on display on a cool autumn afternoon – it made me appreciate that I get to be a Parks and Recreation professional in Kansas. Many thanks to all of you who contributed to Mike and Doug and Bonnie and Sue’s excellent adventure!

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KRPA Partners with

Kansas Lottery & Renowned Artist to Promote Parks The Kansas Recreation and Park Association (KRPA) went a unique route in finding a interested partner with a state-wide reach to help promote the benefits of local and state parks throughout the state.

It involved into a partnership with the Kansas Lottery and renowned landscape artist Louis Copt and resulted in the creation of a statewide scratch-off game, scheduled to launch in May 2012, which features colorful scenes from parks in all parts of the state.

“Our objective was to work with the Kansas Lottery in creating a game which would both promote our parks in an effective manner and help generate some added revenue for KRPA...”

As a result, many citizens across the state of Kansas will be reminded in impressive fashion over a seven month period during 2012 of the variety of opportunities available to them by visiting a nearby park.

Executive Director Doug Vance, working on behalf of the KRPA Board of Directors, approached the Kansas Lottery in July, 2010, to discuss a partnership that would entail the development of a state-wide scratchoff game which would focus on local and state parks across the state.

“Our objective was to work with the Kansas Lottery in creating a game which would both promote our parks 18 • KRPA Today - www.krpa.org

in an effective manner and help generate some added revenue for KRPA,” said Vance. “The opportunity to work with the Kansas Lottery helped us achieve both goals, but the end result is actually better than we anticipated.”

Lake Shawnee Park Topeka

Dennis Wilson, new executive director of the Kansas Lottery, embraced the concept originally approved by his predecessor. Wilson indicated that working to promote an organization like KRPA was a good fit in the Kansas Lottery’s philosophy of helping to support industries that also enhance tourism and promoted healthy lifestyles.

To finalize the concept, however, the final challenge for Vance and KRPA was identifying appropriate prizes for the winning drawings from the scratch-off cards.

Copt, an award-winning landscape artist from Lawrence who had recently been honored as the Kansas artist of the year, had interest in doing a project with the Kansas Lottery. The state organization had recently worked with another group of artists in developing the Kansas 150 game to celebrate the state’s 150-year anniversary and Copt was anxious to lend his talents to a future Kansas Lottery project.

After discussing the options, the Kansas Lottery, KRPA and Copt agreed to work together and develop a series of four landscape paintings of Kansas parks serving as grand prizes for the game. In addition, the paintings would also be used as the artwork for the scratch-off game cards.

TuTtle Creek State Park Manhattan

"Art in the Park" Scratch-Off Game to Launch May 2012 The program, which will be promoted through various print and radio advertisements around the state and by a tour of the artwork in several communities, gives the association an effective method to promote parks on a local and state-wide basis in Kansas.

The process of selecting which park scenes would be used for the paintings was developed in collaboration with both Copt and the Kansas Lottery. It was determined that one park from each of three geographic regions in the state – east, central and west – should be represented.

In addition, one “wild card” selection from any of the three regions would also be used as the fourth painting.

Finnup Park Garden City

Vance solicited photos of park landscape scenes from KRPA members and received a wide variety of examples.

He then turned them over to Copt who, after looking at the options, made the final selections.

After reviewing the photo examples, Copt traveled to various park locations and took pictures of what he wanted to use as the models for the paintings. The experience helped reinforce his love of Kansas parks.

“I was excited to be a part of this project,” explained Copt. “As a native Kansan, an artist and photographer, I’ve traveled the state and have an understanding of the importance of parks and opportunities they offer for everyone.”

“I was really impressed in visiting some of the locations about how parks are being used in local communities and wanted to make sure our paintings reflected people using them and enjoying what they offer. It was obvious that both park visitors and those who maintain them take a lot of pride in their parks.”

Eisenhower Park Abilene

Copt also hopes the project helps promote the value for parks in local communities.

“Even with the budget cuts faced in communities, it’s important that we continue to preserve our green spaces,” added Copt. “I think it’s one of the more important uses of our tax dollars” The four parks selected for the project were Finnup Park in Garden City, Eisenhower Park in Abilene, Tuttle Creek State Park near Manhattan and Lake Shawnee Park in Topeka.

A limited number of prints of each painting will be made available for purchase. The Kansas Lottery scratch-off game is scheduled to launch in May with the prize drawing set for October.

KRPA KRPA Today Today -- www.krpa.org www.krpa.org • • 19 19

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By Roger Bixenman, Hays Recreation Commission

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hat started out as a grass roots effort has become a reality for the City of Hays and the surrounding community. In November of 2008 the community passed a ½ cent sales tax increase to help build what is now the 110 acre Bickle/Schmidt Sports Complex. The ribbon cutting which officially introduced the new complex on September 9, 2011 had over 175 people in attendance.

The complex features two quads. Each quad has four three-hundred foot fields with portable fencing and mounds, which will facilitate all ages of play. The quads are equipped with individual concessions, restrooms and official’s rooms. An outdoor TV with cable, security cameras, Wi-Fi and security systems are located at each building. Also, included is covered spectator seating and shelters. In addition, the complex features eight full size soccer and football fields with their own entities as well. Each complex will eventually have its own covered playground equipment area.

Also featured is a maintenance facility utilized for equipment storage. The Hays Recreation Commission has an agreement for management of the facility with the City of Hays. The City of Hays is responsible for all maintenance of the facility except for the infields, warning tracks and striping of fields which will be provided by the Hays Recreation Commission. The annual maintenance at the complex will be subsidized as part of the ½ cent sales tax increase. Expected revenue generated by the sales tax is estimated to be around 10.5 million over four years. Eight million dollars of this was spent on construction of the complex and

the rest will be utilized for annual maintenance cost. Private donations through naming rights helped the complex add additional amenities.

In September of 2011 the Hays Recreation Commission hired Ben Moeckel as the Complex Director. His duties will involve facility management, recruitment of tournaments and supervision of all part-time seasonal staff. Ben looks forward to keeping the complex busy with Hays Recreation activities throughout the week and tournaments for all sports on the weekends. The complex was utilized this past fall with Hays Recreation activities, with one week of adult coed softball and three weeks of youth soccer and flag football games.

The goal for the first year is to host approximately 12 to 15 tournaments throughout the spring, summer and fall on weekends and provide for local play throughout the week.

Additional goals for the complex are for all Hays Recreation Commission outdoor activities to be played at the complex and continue to provide the quality of life opportunities for the surrounding community. Another goal is to draw youth and adult tournaments to the complex which will in turn provide an economic impact to the community for years to come.

Providing a “Field of Dreams” as a state of the art facility in the western part of the state has been a long range goal of the Hays Recreation Commission board and staff. Now this “Field of Dreams” has become a reality and we look forward to the opportunity to be a part of such an awesome complex.

This complex with all the amenities can be viewed on the complexes website at www.hayssportscomplex.com.

KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 21

Discovering Kansas Parks

By Logan Wagler, Lenexa Parks and Recreation, Parks Superintendent

Black Hoof Park and Lake Lenexa Just a few miles off K-7 on Monticello Road in Lenexa and nestled in the forest among rock outcroppings, is the beautiful Lake Lenexa and the recently completed Black Hoof Park. The 240-acre park with its 35-acre lake centerpiece, represents a harmonious balance between nature sanctuary and recreation destination, and is Lenexa’s leading example of the city’s focus on sustainability.

Black Hoof Park, which was named in honor of the Second Chief Black Hoof of the Shawnee Indian tribe, was constructed as a Rain to Recreation project aimed at reducing flooding, preserving the woodlands and streamways, and providing new recreational and educational opportunities for the community.

In addition to Lake Lenexa, the park features three wetlands, a boat ramp for small non-motorized boats, boardwalks, docks, access to fishing spots and wildlife habitats, picnic shelters, restrooms and a future amphitheater. Five miles of trails connect the lake to surrounding neighborhoods along protected streamways.

Visitors come to Black Hoof Park to relax, play and enjoy the lake and scenery, including an architecturally unique dam and spillway, which merges engineering and art by creating cascading pools, sculptures and a fountain that may be viewed atop a pedestrian bridge spanning the spillway. With the construction of the dam and spillway, stormwater has been transformed from a potential nuisance as damaging runoff into an environmental and community asset.

Lenexa’s Black Hoof Park was constructed in two main phases. The initial phase has won numerous awards such as APWA Regional Chapter Project of the Year

(2006), American City and County 1 of 6 Crown Communities (2006), Arbor Day Foundation “Project” award (2007) for tree preservation, and the National League of Cities Gold Medal Award for Municipal Excellence in 2007.

Phase II of the project, which began in Fall 2010 and was completed approximately one year later, introduced many new sustainable elements and features, and has enhanced the park’s reputation as a recreation destination for the entire family. Among the Phase II amenities are additional trails, an expansive view of the spillway and a nature-themed destination play area, which blends traditional play structures with natural features. The play area invites children and adults to connect with nature through a play stream, climbing boulders, stepping stones, balance logs and educational opportunities.

Equipment in the new play area offers a wide variety of exercise options for all ages and features spinners, a zip-line track and the tallest slide in Lenexa. A trail loop encompasses the entire play area, and a nearby large-capacity shelter with fire pit and plenty of seating provides a beautiful setting for large gatherings. The unique design of the shelter gives visitors the feeling of being under shade trees, with tree-like supports and overhead translucent panels with leaf designs. The shelter will be available for rent starting in 2012.

The purchase of the three new Phase II structures was possible through a grant, which was won in 2008. The entrance to the park and access to Phase II amenities is located on the north end of the park at 9053 Monticello Road in Lenexa.

For more information on Black Hoof Park, contact Logan Wagler, Parks Superintendent, at 913.477.7140.

“Discovering Kansas Parks” will be a regular feature of KRPA Today highlighting unique parks and park features in Kansas cities, counties and state lands. Have a park you’d like to see highlighted? Send your suggestions to Doug Vance at doug@krpa.org.

22 • KRPA Today - www.krpa.org

Is this your first time attending the KRPA Conference and Trade Show?

By Kristin Larson, Blue Valley Recreation; Brandy Shoemaker, Ottawa Recreation Commission

It’s your first time attending the annual KPRA conference and you’re not sure what to expect or how to make the most of your time. We can relate with this concern since we have fresh memories of attending our first conference. The conference has several opportunities for professional growth and development as well as time to have fun and do a little networking. To help you on your way, you’ll find listed below the top activities to check out at this year’s conference!

Top 5 things to check out if you are a rookie at the conference Attend the Young Professional/Student Summit This pre-conference afternoon is coordinated by the Young Professionals Committee to help provide vital information for those who are entering or new to the parks and recreation field.

While the topics are geared towards students and newer professionals, seasoned professionals are also highly encouraged to attend if there is a topic that interests them. Check out this year’s schedule as we talk about generational differences, etiquette, social media, parks and recreation certifications, and customer service.

This is a great opportunity to meet some of the other fresh faces in the field that have the same questions you have.

Breakout Sessions The KRPA conference offers a variety of educational breakout sessions with topics ranging from aquatics, parks, and sports to marketing and maintenance, just to name a few. These sessions can provide helpful information to take back to your first or current job. Attend a few sessions in your designated area or step out into something new...you’ll find there is something for everyone!

Attend Socials Everyone likes to have fun and KRPA socials are the place to be! Whether it is skating, Texas Hold ‘em, or dancing, socials provide a fun and relaxing atmosphere to meet and network with other professionals from all over the state.

Participate in the new KRPA Mentor Program At this year’s KRPA conference, the Young Professionals committee will be launching a new mentor program for the upcoming year. For new professionals and students – this is a great opportunity to be paired with a seasoned professional that can help answer your questions as you enter the field. For Seasoned Professionals – now is your time to help mold the future of our field by providing your guidance and leadership to up and coming professionals.

We hope you join us for the overall experience at the 2012 KRPA Conference and Trade Show!

Note: Brandy Shoemaker and Kristin Larson serve as co-coordinators of the Young Professionals Committee for KRPA

Opening Session This year’s keynote speaker is one you can’t miss! Lt. Colonel (Ret.) Kevin Sweeney is presenting on “Pressure Cooker Confidence” and will have some great information to help you achieve your goals both professionally and personally. Kevin received a Bachelor in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Washburn University. For 23 years Kevin served in the United States military. During that time, he achieved the rank of Lt. Colonel in the United States Air Force and became a renowned command pilot. He flew combat missions in Vietnam and Desert Storm, and was even awarded the United States Air Force Distinguished Flying Cross for his legendary night combat mission heroics.

The Lt. Colonel’s presentation is designed to inspire and motivate individuals while addressing the pressures people face in daily life and how to transform these obstacles into confidence and a formula for success.

He will emphasize five key areas that, if implemented, will translate to success for people on a personal level as well as a professional basis: confidence under pressure, precise communications, decisive leadership, cohesive teamwork, and laser beam focus. This is one keynote address you won’t want to miss!

KRPA Today - www.krpa.org • 23

Today

KRPA

Kansas Recreation & Park Association

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

He’ll soon need new playground equipment. Stay top of mind.

For as little as $350 per issue, KRPA Today gets you in front of key recreation and park decision makers.

No other form of advertising gets you so targeted.

DIRECTLY REACH… • Over 1,000 Kansas Recreation & Park Association members: recreation managers, arts coordinators, grounds keepers, senior activity programmers, event planners, facility managers, site planners, parks maintenance, golf course managers, sports organizations.

• Over 100 KRPA business partner members and other state park and recreation associations.

• Over 500 Kansas Society of Association Executives (KSAE) - meeting/event planners, communication managers, convention bureaus, hotels, and sports leagues (Summer issue).

• Online magazine readers via digital edition.

Today

KRPA

Kansas Recreation & Park Association

To quickly download advertising information, visit www.pernsteiner.com/ KRPAadvertising2012.pdf or call Todd at (952) 841-1111.