NYSRPS The Voice Winter/Spring 2017

Voice WINTER/SPRING 2017

The

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF NEW YORK STATE RECREATION AND PARK SOCIETY Highlights from 2016 Downstate Conference

2017 NYSRPS Workshops Calendar

$25,000 Explore Archery Grant Awarded to NYSRPS

2017 Conference Heads to Rochester Conference Guide Inside

NYSRPS Friends Foundation Scholarship

Well Together: Community Inclusion

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Our Mission: The New York State Recreation & Park Society (NYSRPS) is the principal organization advancing the value of parks, recreation, and leisure services through professional development of its members and citizen engagement.

NYSRPS has served the leisure service industry for more than 75 years as an independent, nonprofit, public interest, professional membership association dedicated to the following: • To function in such a manner as will further the interests of the leisure service movement, its professionals and leaders in voluntary, public, private, and commercial agencies.

• To promote principles and standards for the improvement of leisure services and to encourage studies and research in professional relations.

• To affiliate for our mutual benefit and cooperation on local, state, and national levels, and with those organizations in similar or related fields.

• To educate the public in regard to the principles and goals of the leisure service industry.

• To assist in the advancement of the leisure services, recreation and parks, and environmental conservation fields.

• To study legislation pertaining to the leisure services and further that legislation which is in the public’s best interest.

• To provide opportunities for professional growth of individuals employed in the leisure service industry.

• To develop a public awareness of the necessity of recreation as a vital part of life.

• To stimulate a widening interest in leisure services in local communities and statewide through conservation and development of leisure resources.

CONTENTS President’s Message....................................................................3 Executive Board, Regional Representatives, Committee Chairs......4 Executive Director’s Message......................................................5 Meet New NYSRPS Board Members..........................................6 2017 NYSRPS Annual Conference...............................8-13 NYSRPS Member Spotlights.................................................... 14 Membership Matters.............................................................. 15 2017 Conference & Workshop Schedule.................................. 16 NYSRPS Awarded $25,000 Explore Archery Grant.................... 17 2016 Downstate Conference Highlights................................... 18 Dr. Kunstler Presented Award of Appreciation........................... 19 NYSRPS Friends Foundation Scholarship..................................20 USTA Provides Opportunities to Play Tennis.............................. 21

Executive Office Staff Executive Director: Lisa Morahan Director of Communications: Beth DellaRocco Accounting: Ann Marie Pendergast

Streamline Purchasing with Cooperatives................................. 21

Deadlines for articles, photos and advertising: Summer/Fall 2017: May 1, 2017 Winter/Spring 2018: October 30, 2017

Membership Matters..................................................................26

All members of NYSRPS receive The Voice, reduced registration rates to the NYSRPS Annual Conference and One Day Seminars, as well as discounts on the Continuing Education Unit Program. NYSRPS areas of involvement and service include Legislation, Workshops and Seminars, Conferences, Membership Publications, Continuing Education Units, Discount Ticket Program, and the Youth Sports Association.

The information and articles contained within this publication are for your consideration and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of NYSRPS.

NYSRPS Regions, Regional Partners, Affiliates.................................22 Regional Partner News........................................................... 23-24 Well Together............................................................................27 Commercial Membership Guide............................................. 28-29 On the cover: Frederick Douglass– Susan B. Anthony Memorial Bridge Rochester, NY Photo: Deposit Photos

NYSRPS reserves the right to approve all material in The Voice.

All requests for articles, photos, and advertising should be made to the Director of Communications at 518.584.0321, ext. 12 or to pr@nysrps.org.

The Voice is printed bi-annually. This is issue #1 of 2017 .

This issue of The Voice was designed and produced by Pernsteiner Creative Group, Inc., Minneapolis/Los Angeles

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New York State Recreation and Park Society, Inc. Saratoga Spa State Park • 19 Roosevelt Dr., Suite 200 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 www.nysrps.org (518) 584-0321

President’s Message Hello again everyone, and welcome to 2017.

I trust everyone enjoyed their holiday season and were able to spend some quality time with family and friends.

Hello again everyone, and welcome to 2017. I trust everyone enjoyed their holiday season and were able to spend some quality time with family and friends. I had the distinct pleasure of attending one of my niece’s graduation from the Marine Corps Basic Training, on Parris Island, South Carolina. It was a great honor to be able to see her achieve this goal, and become a member of our military. It wasn’t even weird for this old Army veteran to spend time on the Marine base.

In early October, several members of the State Society Executive Board were able to attend the National Recreation and Park Association Annual Conference in St. Louis. This conference is a great show to attend, with numerous excellent educational sessions to choose from, a huge Exhibit Hall, and unparalleled networking opportunities. If you can find a way to attend this conference, I highly recommend it.

Our own 2017 Annual Conference Committee has been working very hard to pull together a package that will interest everyone. In fact, the two Conference chairs were also able to attend the NRPA Conference, and they brought some of what they learned back to the state conference. One of the most exciting additions to our conference is the app that has been developed and activated, exclusively for the conference. There are so many features that you will be able to utilize to enhance your conference experience.

Lisa Morahan will get more information out about this app.

There is no doubt that budgets across the state are being cut, and one of the first line items that takes the cut is the conference and professional development line. Knowing that, it was imperative for our committee to develop a valuable selection of educational sessions and networking opportunities that will provide value to all of you attending. The conference committee has done just that. I invite you to review the educational sessions offered, and realize the value of the conference in terms of professional development for you and your staff. It will be money well-spent.

My highest regards to Janelle Drach and Jeff Nutting, and the entire conference committee, for developing a conference that provides such a great benefit to our members.

One last thought on the conference. I am inviting all of the Past Presidents of NYSRPS to come over to Rochester on Saturday, and join the current Executive Board and the Conference Committee for a Conference Kick-Off Social. We did this in 2013, and had a very good response. I think we had close to twenty Past Presidents attend. I’d like to do this again. If you are interested, please contact me directly at jmyers@perinton.org or (585) 223-5050.

The Board and other committees have been very busy lately. At the recommendation of our current Treasurer and our auditor, we recently changed the Society’s fiscal year to follow the Calendar Year. This change will enable more accurate record-keeping in terms of various revenues and expenses that are received through the course of the year. Our independent auditor reviewed every step of the change, and submitted a positive report in terms of the change.

In addition, our Society Constitution, By-Laws and Manual of Procedures are in desperate need of review and edit. Vice President Gregg Goodman has taken on that task, along with a committee of assistants, and changes will be coming. Of course changing the Constitution and By-Laws will need your approval, and once the proposed changes are finalized, we will distribute the information to all of you. Thank you to Gregg for taking on this task.

On behalf of our Executive Board and staff, thank you all for your continued support. We hope to see you in Rochester in April, and that you all have a wonderful remainder of winter.

Sincerely, Jeff Myers, Perinton Recreation and Parks NYSRPS Board President

SAVE THE DATE!

SYRACUSE

2018 NYSRPS Annual Conference & Expo “Celebrating the Golden Age” Marriott Syracuse Downtown April 22-24, 2018

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NYSRPS BOARD OF DIRECTORS / COMMITTEE CHAIRS EXECUTIVE BOARD President Jeff Myers, Perinton Recreation and Parks 1350 Turk Hill Rd. Fairport, NY 14450 585-223-5050 jmyers@perinton.,org Term Expires 2017 President-Elect Eric Bacon, Town of Camillus 4600 West Genesee St Syracuse, NY 13219 315-487-3600 ebacon@townofcamillus.com Term Expires 2017 Past President Paul Blake, American Pool Consultants 2433 Marshall Drive.

East Meadow, NY 11554 Phone: 516-731-5516 Email: PaulBPool@aol.com Term Expires 2017 Vice President of Programs & Services Gregg Goodman Phone: (585) 752-1980 Email: ggoodman474@gmail.com Term Expires 2018 Vice President of Professional Development Kristine Zingaro, Town of Manlius Recreation Department 301 Brooklea Drive Fayetteville, NY 13066 Phone: 315-637-5188 Email: kzingaro@townofmanlius.org Term expires 2017 Treasurer Nathan Nagle, Director of Recreation Village of Horseheads 202 S. Main St. Horseheads, NY 14845 Phone: 607-739-5691 Email: nnagle@horseheads.org Term expires 2018 Secretary Julie LaFave, Sullivan Parks and Recreation 707 Legion Drive Chittenango, NY 13037 Phone: 315-687-3471 Email: jlafave@townofsullivan.org Term expires 2017

REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVES Region I Representative Jason Marra Great Neck Parks District 65 Arrandale Avenue Great Neck, NY 11024 (516) 487-7665 jmarra@greatneckparks.org Term expires 2017 Region I Representative Thomas Meyering Town of Poughkeepsie 1 Overocker Road Poughkeepsie, NY 12603 (845) 485-3628 tmeyering@townofpoughkeepsie-ny.gov Term Expires 2018 Region II Representative Vacant Seat Term Expires 2019 Region II Representative Leiko Benson Onondaga County Parks 106 Lake Drive Liverpool, NY 13088 (315) 453-6712 leikobenson@ongov.net Term Expires 2019 Region III Representative Joseph Menter Grand Island Recreation 3278 Whitehaven Rd. Grand Island, NY 14072 (716) 773-9680 jmenter@grand-island.ny.us Term Expires 2017 Region III Representative Linanne Conroy Penfield Parks and Recreation 1985 Baird Road Penfield, NY 14526 Phone: 585-340-8655 Email: conroy@penfield.org Term Expires 2019 Honorary Representative Debra Keville Director, Regional Programs & Services New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation Albany, NY 12238 Phone: 518-474-8081 Email: debra.keville@parks.ny.gov

COMMITTEE CHAIRS Annual Conference Committee: Jeffrey Nutting, Perinton Parks and Recreation Janelle Drach, Geneva Parks and Recreation Recognition and Awards Committee: Charry Lawson, Onondaga Parks and Recreation Constitution and Bylaws Committee: Gregg Goodman Vice President of Programs & Services: Gregg Goodman Vice President of Professional Development: Kristine Zingaro, Town of Manlius Recreation Department Nominations Committee: Paul Blake, American Pool Consultants Personnel Committee: Paul Blake, American Pool Consultants Jeff Myers, Perinton Recreation and Parks Eric Bacon, Town of Camillus Professional Ethics Committee: Linanne Conroy, Penfield Parks and Recreation Charry Lawson, Onondaga Parks and Recreation Past Presidents Committee: Paul Blake, American Pool Consultants Communications/ Social Media Committee: Beth DellaRococo, NYSRPS Staff Tom Venniro, Hilton-Parma Parks and Recreation Tom McGerty, Garden City Parks and Recreation Julie LaFave, Sullivan Recreation & Parks Kristine Zingaro, Manlius Recreation Department Strategic Planning Committee: • Public Policy Development: Eric Bacon • Membership Development: Peter O’Brien • Professional Development: Kristine Zingaro • Public Awareness: Tom Venniro • Resource Development: Julie LaFave

Upcoming Board Meetings Thursday, February 23, 2017 Saratoga Springs Monday, April 3, 2017 State Conference Rochester Thursday, May 18, 2017 Saratoga Springs All are encouraged to attend!

Approved minutes posted on nysrps.org.

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Executive Director’s Message

“If you build it, they will come.”

“If you build it, they will come!” whispered in Kevin Costner’s Field of Dreams, is one of my most favorite sayings and driving force in how I like to lead as the NYSRPS Executive Director. Maybe it’s because I am a die-hard baseball fan. A dreamer? I like to think of myself more as a visionary with the desire and wonderful opportunity to bring to fruition the vision that began seventy-seven years ago for NYSRPS- be the best support organization dedicated to serving park, recreation and therapeutic recreation professionals across New York State.

The most important piece in building anything is a solid foundation.

For a statewide professional membership-based organization, that foundation is having an Executive Board that fully represents the membership it serves. I am very pleased to welcome our newly appointed Region Representatives Joseph Menter, Leiko Benson, Jason Marra and Tom Meyering. Collectively they represent all three of our New York regions, a territory that spans from Grand Island to Long Island. We are honored to have them and their commitment to serve their regions. Having a Constitution, set of By-Laws, and Policies and Procedures that are current and relevant, yet rooted in the mission upon which they were created, is equally important for a solid foundation. NYSRPS would like to extend a special thank you to Vice President Gregg Goodman for his selfless dedication in working closely with the Constitution and By-Laws Committee these past few months to update our documents.

Once complete, they will be presented to the Board and membership for approval.

NY. Dedicated volunteers from Genesee Valley Park and Recreation Society have turned out in force to orchestrate this amazing three day conference. A special thanks to conference co-chairs Janelle Drach and Jeffrey Nutting for their wonderful leadership and attention to detail leading this charge. See the full conference program details within. If you have not yet registered, be sure to do so today! The special hotel rate is only good through March 1st.

Thank you again, for allowing me to serve in this amazing position.

I do believe if our Society is strong, members will come. The stronger we are as a Society, the better we will be to help you build your own “Field of Dreams” in the communities you serve. Have a wonderful rest of winter, stay warm and we will see you in Rochester April 2-4th!

Lisa Morahan NYSRPS Executive Director

Our Membership Spotlight section pays tribute to some beloved members, recently retired, for contributions they have made to our organization. The Downstate Conference was a terrific success due to the collaborative effort between hard working individuals from NYSRPS’s affiliate organizations of Metro, HVLSA, WRAPS, and NYSTRA. The conference raised approximately $1,500 for each and we were pleased to offer hundreds of professionals a great day for education and networking. The best part of the day was honoring Dr. Robin Kunstler for her significant contributions over the past 22 years to the Downstate Conference. I enjoyed having the opportunity to interview her more in depth for this issue.

So upon that premise, “If you build it, they will come!” NYSRPS is happy to announce a full workshop calendar for 2017, that includes several one day trainings, CPO/CPSI certification classes and our 77th NYSRPS Annual Conference and Expo in Rochester,

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MEET NEW NYSRPS BOARD REPRESENTATIVES Leiko Benson - Region II

Jason Marra - Region I

Tom Meyering - Region I

Leiko Benson is known for her love of the color purple and her very large family. Growing up in Upstate New York, Leiko gained a deep respect and understanding of the endless benefits the exploration of the natural world can give to those willing to go out and experience it. One of her favorite activities is sharing her love of the outdoors with her nieces and nephews while exploring New York’s great parks.

NYSRPS welcomes Superintendent Jason Marra of Great Neck Park District to the Board. With a background filled with years of parks and recreation education and experience, Jason brings much to the table. He arrived in Great Neck in February 2016, after 7 years of working as Superintendent of Parks, Recreation and Conservation for the Village of Scarsdale in Westchester County. Jason was one of only three young professionals in the nation selected by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration for their Young Professional Externship program in 2014.

It is a pleasure to serve as the Region I Representative on the NYSRPS Board of Directors.

Throughout my career I have received ongoing support from my fellow professionals and the State Society. I am looking forward to giving something back to them.

As the Director of Recreation for Onondaga County Parks, she serves the 470, 000 residents of Onondaga County through the development of a variety of educational, historical, cultural and athletic programs and events. The Department’s diverse facilities which include several multi-use parks, over 70 miles of trails, a zoo, a 2700 acre forest, a marina, two beaches, a nature center, historical facilities, an athletic complex, a Triple A baseball stadium, a cemetery and an amphitheater create a perfect backdrop for her to provide residents of all ages with a multitude of leisure opportunities.

Leiko has been with Onondaga County Parks since 2001, working as a Senior Recreation Leader at NBT Bank Stadium and Jamesville Beach Park and the Recreation Supervisor at Onondaga Lake Park before becoming the Director of Recreation in 2013. She has a Master’s degree in Outdoor and Environmental Education and Therapeutic Recreation from SUNY Cortland, where she also served as an adjunct professor for the Special Events Planning Class for five years. Her undergraduate work was completed at SUNY University at Buffalo in Social Sciences.

Joe Menter - Region III My name is Joe Menter. I am the Recreation Supervisor for the Town of Grand Island and I have been in this position for three and a half years. I also coach the boys swim team and girls swim team for Grand Island High School. Before my career in Recreation I was a Physical Education and Health Teacher. During this time I spent a summer working for Disney Cruise Line and nine summers working at Camp Chikopi, the world’s first swim camp. I am a graduate of SUNY Cortland with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and the United States Sports Academy with a Master of Sports Science in Sports Studies. I joined the NYSRPS Board to serve with an organization that has a long standing history of helping advance recreation across New York State. I look forward to serving with other professionals on the Board and continuing to learn and expand my knowledge in the recreation field.

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I have been the Recreation and Parks Director for the Town of Poughkeepsie for the last 11 years. Poughkeepsie is located in the beautiful Hudson Valley, about halfway between New York City and Albany. Prior to that I was the Recreation Director for the Town of Hyde Park and a District Executive with the Boy Scouts of America. When I am not working I enjoy fly fishing, cross country skiing, canoeing and am a Revolutionary War and Civil War reenactor.

NYSRPS Seeks Executive Board Nominations NYSRPS is seeking candidates for positions on their Executive Board.

Term run from June 1, 2017. through May 31, 2018. Download a Board packet at nysrps.org. Nominations are due by: February 28, 2017.

executive BoarD �ominations

criteria for canDiDate eligiBility

Candidates for positions in the NYSRPS Executive Board must meet the following eligibility requirements: • Employment within the region for which he/she is nominated.* • Dues-paying member of NYSRPS for at least one (1) year prior to election

Eligibility requirements specifically for the position of President Elect: • Service on a Board-approved Committee of NYSRPS not less than four (4) aggregate years; OR • Served a minimum of one (1) year on the NYSRPS Executive Board *Regions served by NYSRPS Executive Board Region Representatives:

Region I: Hudson Valley, Westchester, Metropolitan and Long Island

Region II: Adirondack/Lake Champlain, Capital, Central and North Country

Region III: Genesee Valley and Niagara Frontier

the nomination Process All nominees must provide the following upon nomination of the NYSRPS Executive Board: • Completed acceptance form. (To be provided upon receipt of enclosed nomination form) • Completed resume form. (To be provided upon receipt of enclosed nomination form) • A photo for use on the ‘Meet the Candidates’ flyer, provided to all members with election ballot.

Duties of the executive BoarD • Terms of office officially run from June 1st through May 31st.

• Manage the affairs of the Society in accordance with the Constitution and By-Laws.

• Establish policies and set priorities for all Society programs.

• Approve annual budget.

• Approve and appoint all paid staff. In absence of an Executive Director, oversees the performance and conducts annual evaluations of staff. Oversees performance and conducts and annual evaluation of Executive Director.

• Conduct periodic meetings in accordance with the Constitution and By-Laws.

Minimum of five meetings including one at the Annual Conference.

• Approve appointments of all standing and special committee chairpersons. In the absence of a residential recommendation for appointment of committee chairs, Executive Board may recommend members in good standing to fill these vacancies.

• Encouraged to solicit five new members and potential partnerships.

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A message from the 2017 Conference co-chairs…

Welcome to the NYSRPS 77th Annual Conference and Business Exposition hosted by the Genesee Valley Recreation and Park Society. As Co-Chairs and representatives of GVRPS, we are excited to serve as your regional hosts for this year’s event and welcome you all to Rochester and the Finger Lakes Region!

We have a theme of Play rolled into many aspects of the conference.

We’ll be hosting a unique opening social that starts with playful and interactive areas at The Strong National Museum of Play, located just blocks away from our newly renovated host hotel, the Rochester Hyatt. Throughout the conference we hope you are able to venture into the Rochester area for one of our many off-site offerings, which include the chilly air at an ice rink, the greens of a golf course and even a trip to sample from our regional farmers market. We hope that all aspects of your educational experiences in Rochester have an element of play to them! Of course, we can’t forget about our final social where we plan to watch the Final Four NCAA championship game as well, look out for some fun basketball themed activities that night.

world in different aspects of the recreational field. His approach focuses on innovation and partnerships to serve an increasingly global audience, ensure financial sustainability, and to create a guest experience of the highest quality.

The exhibit hall, which will be located in the hub of all conference activities will showcase the most current and innovative products and we have ensured open times for attendees to visit, mingle and check out all our vendors have to offer throughout the conference. Make sure to visit us there and see all the products to offer your community.

There is so much more information we would love to share and encourage you to access all the events and programming going on during your stay in Rochester, via our Conference App through Eventsential. This is a new and unique offering, showcased for the first time ever at a NYSRPS event and is used at NRPA’s National Conference.

The app is designed to allow you to go “paperless” during the conference by having all the information you need via your smartphone! To ensure easy access, Our volunteer committee team has been the Hyatt will have free wifi hotspots so Conference Co-Chairs, Jeff Nutting and Janelle Drach diligently and enthusiastically working you never lose a connection. Make sure for over a year to bring you a playful and you download the app and login by your educational experience, which will include an abundant variety of arrival to access the latest information and get up-to-the-minute educational sessions that offer exceptional opportunities for you updates during the conference. We will also be active throughout to learn and network. As always, the kickoff and highlight to our the conference on social media, so be sure to use our hashtags and conference is our keynote address. follow us on twitter and facebook.

We are both very excited for the opportunity for all attendees to hear our keynote speaker, VP at PROS Consulting Inc., Neelay Bhatt. As a NRPA Board of Directors member, he is committed to the idea that “no child is left indoors” a perfect pairing to our theme of Play. With his PROS work he has led 100+ parks and recreation strategic and master planning projects, sports facility development, customer service training, and marketing and branding projects. Outside of PROS, he has hosted multiple TEDx talks and routinely speaks to and trains people from all over the

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In closing, we would like to welcome you to the Rochester and Finger Lakes region and we hope you have a special time filled with moments of playful experiences mixed in with the opportunities of learning and networking.

Welcome to Rochester and enjoy the #RecMadness of the #nysrps17 Conference!

Your Conference Co-Chairs, Janelle Drach and Jeff Nutting

Photo by: Sheridan Vincent

NYSRPS Welcomes Keynote Speaker, Neelay Bhatt Sponsored by Landscape Structures Neelay Bhatt’s career on three continents includes Disney, The Super Bowl, The Summer Olympics and Paralympics Games, besides several years of consulting, public speaking and training. TEDx, the global platform for ideas, describes him as a business and communications visionary, and his service on the National Recreation and Park Association’s Board of Directors is committed to ensuring that ‘no child is left indoors’.

Besides, leading a TED Global workshop, presenting multiple TEDx talks and coaching TEDx presenters, he is a sought after keynote speaker and routinely speaks to and trains executives, professionals, and students from USA to China and from Europe to New Zealand. His approach focuses on innovation and partnerships to serve an increasingly global audience, ensure financial sustainability, and to create a guest experience of the highest quality.

As the Vice President at PROS Consulting INC., he has led 100+ parks and recreation strategic and master planning, sports facility development, customer service training, and marketing and branding projects. These projects have recommended facility development and infrastructure improvements totaling over $2 billion USD, and are helping to shape a better vision for parks, recreation, and sports all over the world.

Neelay Bhatt LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/neelay Twitter: @neelaybhattt

77th Annual Conference & Expo April 2-4, 2017 Hyatt Regency, 125 East Main Street, Rochester Hotel transformation will offer guests new rooms!

Join the 77th Annual New York State Recreation and Park Society at the Hyatt Regency in Rochester, NY for a threeday event for professional development, networking, camaraderie and more!

2017 NYSRPS Conference Hotel A special rate for lodging of $128 has been secured at the Hyatt Regency. All room reservations must be made by March 1, 2017 to be eligible for the special room rate.

Please reserve online at www.nysrps.org.

2017 NYSRPS Conference Socials Sunday Night Socials The Strong Museum!

5:45 – 7 p.m.

Enjoy eGameRevolution and the Toy Hall of Fame Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Lodge 7 – 11 p.m.

2017 Sponsors to Date* PRESENTING SPONSOR

Enjoy a complimentary shuttle service to and from the evening socials!

CONFERENCE SPONSOR

Monday Night Social

AWARDS SPONSOR

KEYNOTE SPONSOR

*Interested in sponsorship? Contact pr@nysrps.org

Legends Sports Bar 8:45 p.m. – Midnight Catch March Madness

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2017 NYSRPS Conference Schedule Sunday, April 2 Registration 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Room: Registration Urban Park Design - MLK Jr. Park - Offsite Presenter: Joanne Beck 10:00 AM – 12:15 PM Site: MLK Jr. Park Conkey Cruisers: Making Exercise Kool for Kids Presenter: Theresa Bowick 1:00 – 2:00 PM Room: Regency A Explore Rochester: Using Social Media to Get People Offline Presenter: Justin Dusett 1:00 – 2:00 PM Room Regency B

Exploring the Depths of Writing for Wellness Presenter: Nancy Steinkamp 2:15 – 3:45 PM Room: Carson

Tech In Rec. Presenter: Kevin Adams 8:00 – 9:00 AM Room: Wilmorite

Pick Up the Parks: Preparation, Promotion, Production Presenter: Ryan Loysen 2:15 – 3:45 PM Room: Wilmorite

Integrating Physical Literacy into Recreation Programming Presenter: Dan Glynn 9:15 – 10:45 AM Room: Regency A

KEYNOTE ADDRESS

Outdoor Fitness Parks: Promoting Community Health and Physical Activity Presenter: Josh Hartley 9:15 – 10:45 AM Room: Regency B

Presenter: Neelay Bhatt 4:00 – 5:00 PM Room: Main Street Gallery Evening Social Site: The Strong Museum of Play / MLK Park

7:00 – 11:00 PM

Serving Your Community Better with Technology Presenter: Sebastian Leduc 1:00 – 2:00 PM Room: Regency C

Monday, April 3

The Youth Inclusion Project at the Inclusion Resource Center: Be a Part of the Movement!

Presenter: Dr. Lynn Anderson 1:00 – 2:00 PM Room: Carson

Breakfast 7:00 – 9:00 AM Room: Main Street Gallery

Restoring the Braddock Bay Ecosystem Presenter: Joshua Unghire 1:00 – 2:00 PM Room: Wilmorite Beyond the Guard Chair- Aquatic Risk Management for the Recreation Professional Presenter: Tim Auerhahn 2:15 – 3:15 PM Room: Regency A Community Recreation and School District Collaborations: They’re All Our Children Presenters: Brian Emelson, Tom Venniro, Bill Riddell, Jessie Hollenbeck 2:15 – 3:15 PM Room: Regency B Injury Prevention for Urban Children: work of the Injury Free Coalition for Kids in Rochester Presenter: Anne F. Brayer 2:15 – 3:15 PM Room: Regency C

Registration 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Room: Registration

Morning Wellness 7:30 – 8:30 AM Room: TBA Rochester Public Market, Gathering Place for a City - Offsite Presenter: James Farr 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Site: Rochester Public Market Creating a Place-Based Race Presenter: Jacqueline Augustine 8:00 – 9:00 AM Room: Regency A Organic Sports Turf Care Presenter: Peter Solch 8:00 – 9:00 AM Room: Regency B Aligning Strategic Efforts with Identified Needs Presenter: Neelay Bhatt 8:00 – 9:00 AM Room: Regency C Building a Community Through Social Media Presenter: Jessica DiLuglio 8:00 – 9:00 AM Room: Carson

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Delivering YOUR TED Talk: How to Talk So People Listen Presenter: Neelay Bhatt 9:15 – 10:45 AM Room: Regency C An Introduction to the Benefits of Parks and Recreation Presenter: Gregg Goodman 9:15 – 10:15 AM Room: Carson Best Practices in Recruiting and Retaining Youth Participants Presenter: Kevin McAllister 9:15 – 10:15 AM Room: Wilmorite Exhibit Hall Exclusive 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room: Grand Ballroom LUNCH 12:00 – 12:45 PM Room: Main Street Gallery Rochester Institute of Technology’s Gene Polisseni Center and Ice Rink Offsite Presenter: Carl Palmieri 1:00 – 3:00 PM Site: RIT Ice Rink Good Public Engagement: From the Public, Private and Community Perspectives Presenter: Daniel Biggs 1:00 – 2:00 PM Room: Regency A SUNY Cortland’s Student Life Center Presenter: Julian Wright 1:00 – 2:00 PM Room: Regency B “RAAising” the Bar: Creating Real Time Inclusion!

Presenter: Anita O’Brien 1:00 – 2:00 PM Room: Regency C

2017 NYSRPS Conference Schedule Youth Voice, One Vision: How to Create an Effective Youth Council Presenter: Tremain Harris 1:45 – 3:15 PM Room: Carson Stregthen Your Positive Youth Development Mindset!

Presenter: Jutta Dotterweich 1:45 – 3:15 PM Room: Wilmorite The Future of Preparing and Training Youth Coaches Presenter: John LaMalva 2:15 – 3:15 PM Room: Regency A Bring Back the Monarchs Presenter: Jack Voelker 2:15 – 3:15 PM Room: Regency B The Longest Student-Run Conference: a Sneak Peak Presenter: Esther VanGorder 2:15 – 3:15 PM Room: Regency C Rec on the Move: Bringing Play to the Streets - David F. Gantt R-Center – Offsite Presenter: Shannon Grieve 3:15 – 5:00 PM Site: David F. Gantt R-Center Background Checks: DEFINED Presenter: Chris Goodman 3:30 – 5:00 PM Room: Carson Marketing and Promoting Youth Sports: A Roadmap to Success Presenter: Lisa Licata 3:30 – 5:00 PM Room: Wilmorite Demystifying the Civil Service System Presenter: Thomas Miller 3:30 – 5:00 PM Room: Regency A Staff to Management. How to Effectively Make That Transition Presenter: Jeffrey D. Myers 3:30 – 5:00 PM Room: Regency B Meeting the Demand: How Natural Grass Fields Can Take More Use Presenter: Jerad Minnick 3:30 – 5:00 PM Room: Regency C Hyatt Happy Hour Hard Hat Tour 5:00 – 6:00 PM Complimentary beer, wine and soda

Is the Safety of Your Aquatic Facility Your Primacy Concern?

Presenter: Kim King 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room: Regency A

Exhibit Hall Social 6:00 – 7:00 PM Room: Grand Ballroom Awards Dinner 7:00 – 8:30 PM Room: Main Street Gallery

Ordinary Heroes: Everyday Activities that Build Healthy Communities and Healthy Youth Presenter: Brandi Remington 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room: Regency B

Evening Social- March Madness 8:45 PM – 12:00 AM Site: Legends Sports Bar

Tuesday, April 4

Supporting our Youth Through Sexual Health Education Presenter: Becky Sheldon 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room: Regency C

Registration 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM Room: Registration Breakfast 7:00 – 9:00 AM Room: Main Street Gallery

Re-wilding Childhood: Getting Youth Outdoors, Active and Engaged with their Environments Presenter: Sara Scott 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room: Carson

Morning Wellness 7:30 – 8:30 AM Room: TBA Investing in our Recreationways and Canalways- Ways to Success Through Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) Presenter: Brett Costello 8:00 – 9:00 AM Room: Regency A

Trends in Play Space Design: Activity, Engagement, Involvement Presenter: Michael Fingeroth 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room: Wilmorite

“Content, Content, Content” Marketing!

Presenter: Erik Bunaes 8:00 – 9:00 AM Room: Regency B The Success of a Volunteer Trails Group Presenter: David Wright 8:00 – 9:00 AM Room: Regency C Growing Tennis Participation with USTA Eastern Presenter: Joe Steger 8:00 – 9:00 AM Room: Carson Let’s Include Everyone! Strategies on How to Include People who have Developmental Disabilities in All Programs Presenter: Kathy Costello 8:00 – 9:00 AM Room: Wilmorite Oak Hill Country Club - Offsite Presenter: Chad Ellis 9:00 – 12:00 PM Site: Oak Hill Country Club Exhibit Hall (Exclusive 9:00-10:30 am) 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Room: Grand Ballroom

NYSRPS Annual Meeting Executive Board 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM Room: Main Street Gallery Lunch, Raffles & Silent Auction 12:00 – 12:45 PM Room: Main Street Gallery Special Olympics Partnerships Presenter: Josh Dority 1:00 – 2:30 PM Room: Regency A New Games: The Foundation of Cooperative & Non-Competitive Play & Games Presenter: John LaRue 1:00 – 2:30 PM Room: Regency B-C Branding for Public Sector Organizations Presenter: William Schwappacher 1:00 – 2:00 PM Room: Carson 12 Steps to Personal Success Presenter: Paul Blake 1:00 – 2:30 PM Room: Wilmorite

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2017 NYSRPS Conference Off-Sites

Sunday, April 2 Off-Site to MLK Jr. Park

Monday, April 3 Off-Site to RIT Ice Rink

Monday, April 3 Off-Site to David F. Gantt R-Center

10:00 a.m. Depart Time 12:15 p.m. Return Time

1:00 p.m. Depart Time 3:00 p.m. Return Time

3:15 p.m. Depart Time 5:00 p.m. Return Time

Learn about the evolution of urban park design using the City of Rochester, Martin Luther King Jr Park as a case study. This downtown space was originally designed in the 1970’s by renowned Landscape Architect, Larwence Halprin. Learn how landscape architecture and park design has evolved and the City’s multiyear project to update the park while respecting the original design. Also hear about an exciting project to turn the former inner loop into a mixed use development.

Serving as the home for RIT Men and Women’s hockey games, visit a Division I state of the art athletics facility and ice rink which opened in September of 2014.

The arena is located on the south side of the Student Alumni Union, in the heart of the campus. While its serves primarily as a venue for ice hockey, the arena is a multipurpose facility. This 112,400 square foot multi-purpose facility seats a capacity crowd of 4,300 fans. This includes approximately 4,000 seats, plus standing room for 300 guests. Reserved seating areas and general admission seating are available. Additional amenities of the arena include concessions, club seating and a club lounge.

We’re taking recreation to the streets! Come check out our Rec Center on Wheels and learn about the many benefits of mobile recreation.

The design principles for successful urban spaces have evolved and changed, this session will trace the evolution of one such space and convey information that can be used in other Cities.

Monday, April 3 Off-Site to Rochester Public Market 9:00 a.m. Depart Time 12:00 p.m. Return Time

For over 110 years the Rochester Public Market has been a vital part of the City’s fabric and food distribution system. In recent years it has also become a community gathering place for special events, concerts and cultural celebrations as well as an incubator for small businesses. Learn about the history of this unique venue, plans for the future and the current 10 million dollar renovation project.

Those who operate facilities and/or ice rinks or just appreciate top notch facilities and architecture will experience a brand new state of the art facility used for a multitude of purposes. In addition to the learning objectives, attendees will get to see part of a live Division I Hockey practice!

Participants will learn about the history of the development of the food system, project and special event management and techniques for community engagement and presenting effective programs. Strategies for grant writing and seeking local, State and Federal project monies will also be discussed.

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Learn how to reach youth/families who are not regular program participants. Engage the community and tach residents about the benefit of your programs from the comfort of their backyard!

Tuesday, April 4 Off-Site to Oak Hill Country Club 9:00 a.m. Depart Time 12:00 p.m. Return Time

Oak Hill Country Club (inside and out); is one of the most prestigious golf courses in the Country. GM Chad Ellis will lead you on a tour that will highlight the rich history of the course and golf club, operations and life at the club as a member of Oak Hill CC. Learn what makes Oak Hill so unique at this is a “can’t miss”, once in a lifetime opportunity. Space is limited, so make sure you sign up early. Transportation will be provided to and from Oak Hill and participants must abide by Oak Hill’s dress code; business casual (no jeans!).

The limited number of attendees will have the opportunity to hear the history, inner workings and best practices of the 16th highest rated golf course in the country.

2017 NYSRPS Conference Fees & Socials Annual Conference Fees

Vendor Registration Information

Full Conference Non-Member - $350.00

Booth Fee, Non Member (Includes membership in NYSRPS) $875.00

Full Conference Registration (NYSRPS member) - $300.00 Full Conference Registration (Committee, Award Recipient or Spouse) - $225.00 One Day- Sunday - $75.00 One Day- Monday/Tuesday - $175 Monday/Tuesday Only (includes all meals) - $275.00 Student/Retiree Registration - $75.00 Awards Dinner - $25.00 Award Recipient - Dinner is Complimentary Save $25 on Registration!

In an effort to encourage all attendees to download the Eventsential conference app, a SPECIAL PROMO code has been created to SAVE $25 on registration. Simply download the Eventsential app on your mobile device and search NYSRPS to open the event and retrieve code found on the dashboard.

How to register: Register for the Annual Conference online at nysrps.org.

Payment may be made by check, PO or credit card.

ALL registrants must individually register.

Download the 2017 Conference App!

Booth Fee, Member (NYSRPS) $725.00 Hallway Booth $450.00 Not For Profit (Hallway only) $450.00 Additional Booth Representatives $75.00 Electricity $75.00 Vendor registration fee includes: two representatives per space, meals and socials.

2017 NYSRPS Conference Socials Sunday Night Socials The Strong Museum!

5:45 – 7 p.m.

Enjoy eGameRevolution and the Toy Hall of Fame Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Lodge 7 – 11 p.m.

NEW to this year’s conference is EVENTSENTIAL an app for making the most of your annual conference experience. Download the “Eventsential” app on your mobile device and then search for “NYSRPS” to locate and download the conference guide.

Enjoy a complimentary shuttle service to and from the evening socials!

Monday Night Social Legends Sports Bar 8:45 p.m. – Midnight Catch March Madness

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHTS Superintendent JoAnne Pedersen, Clarkstown Department of Recreation and Parks, Retires The New York State Recreation and Park Society would like to honor JoAnne Pedersen for her many years of great service in Rockland County, ultimately retiring in October of 2016.

JoAnne graduated from Southern Connecticut State College in 1978 with the B.S. degree in Recreation and Parks and Fairleigh Dickinson University in 1983 with a M.S. degree in Recreation and Parks Administration. She had been with the Town of Clarkstown since 1981 starting as a Rec Leader and was promoted over the years to become the Superintendent of Recreation and Parks in 2007 when Chuck Connington retired. NYSRPS was fortunate to have JoAnne as a loyal member and serving on several occasions on the Annual Conference Committee in various positions. Enjoy your retirement JoAnne and HAPPY GARDENING!

Rich Rose, Orange County Commissioner of Parks Recreation and Conservation Retires The New York State Recreation and Park Society congratulates Rich Rose on his recent retirement January 6th, 2017, serving parks and recreation for 32 years. NYSRPS would like to thank him for all his years of membership and service with the Society’s Legislative Committee as well as presiding as a President of the NYSRPS Board.

Rich has served as Orange County’s Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Conservation since November of 2008, maintaining over 3,400 scenic acres of parkland. “I appreciate the opportunity to serve the residents of Orange County over the past eight years,” Rich said in his recent interview by Orange County Government Office of the County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus.

“The men and women of the Orange County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation are some of the finest professionals I have had the pleasure to work with. They consistently provide safe, quality facilities and programs for the residents of Orange County.”

Rich previously served as the Town of Orangetown’s Superintendent of Parks, Recreation and Buildings from 1997-2008. He was the Town of Poughkeepsie’s Director of Parks and Recreation from 1990-97 and held the same title from 1984-90 in the Town of Hyde Park.

Congratulations Rich – we wish you a rewarding retirement!

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MEMBERSHIP MATTERS There are so many facets to serving as the Executive Director of the New York State Recreation and Park Society that I enjoy. The best, by far, is meeting the professionals who make up NYSRPS and having the chance to really get to know them not only as professionals, but as people. In 2016 a few long time NYSRPS members tendered their resignation and we are happy to share their news of retirement. I am glad to take this opportunity to thank them for the years they spent dedicating their lives to bettering their communities and NYSRPS.

In the Spotlight: Tom White, City of Syracuse Department of Parks, Recreation and Youth Programs On June 29th, 2016 long time NYSRPS member Tom White officially retired after working 33 years with the City of Syracuse Department of Parks, Recreation and Youth Programs. Tom began his amazing recreation career in 1983 when he was hired to be the Sunnycrest Park Ice Rink Manager. In addition to overseeing a staff of thirteen employees, he was responsible for supervising the public skating, broom ball league, and Learn-ToSkate programs as well as being the liaison with the Salt City Figure Skaters and Sunnycrest Speed Skating organizations’ ice rental times.

In May 1984 Tom began work in the Aquatics Bureau, initially as the summer Pools Supervisor assisting with the testing, hiring, and training of the lifeguard and support staff for sixteen indoor and outdoor swimming facilities. He was appointed as the Aquatics Director in January 1985. In addition to expanding the Bureau’s pre-competitive swim program, Tom was able to re-introduce an eight team water polo league as well as a synchronized swim program (This included a yearround, highly successful synchronized swim team - which was where U.S. Olympic athlete Billy May got his start!). In 1996, Tom was appointed Parks Administrative Officer responsible for overseeing the department’s budget, capital accounts management, purchasing, personnel, payroll, accounts payable, and receivables. The last ten years of work Tom returned to the department’s programming division working as the Magnarelli Community Center Director and Supervisor of Senior Programs at the city’s four senior centers.

A couple of most notable highlights of Tom’s career include receiving one of 2013’s “Going The Extra Mile” awards, an honor presented quarterly by Mayor Stephanie Miner in recognition of exemplary service to the public in an August ceremony at City Hall. One senior program participant submitted his nomination to bring attention to how he went beyond the job duties and responsibilities to ensure the community center was a welcoming place for seniors, youth, and the general public with a wide variety of programs.

at the Magnarelli Community Center in 2010, which recognized the accomplishments of students, faculty, and staff from the city’s north side high school’s sixty-three year existence.

Tom gave greatly of himself not just to his work and hometown, but to many professional organizations he has and continues to belong. Tom served the Central New York Recreation and Parks Society (1986 to present) two terms as President, several terms in the City/County At-Large position, three times as co-chairperson for the Society’s annual conference as well as multiple years as the Awards Committee Chairperson. Tom joined the New York State Recreation and Parks Society in 1996. He was elected to four two-year terms as the Executive Board’s Secretary and Cochairperson for three Conferences and Business Expositions.

In addition Tom also served Syracuse-Oswego Board of Women’s Basketball Officials (1980 to present) as a high school referee for Central New York based teams; including several trips to Section 3, regional, and state finals as well as the New York State Umpires Association (Syracuse Chapter 1979 to 1996) officiating all levels of high school baseball, including several Section 3 championship games.

When asked about all his volunteer work Tom replied, “my involvement with the local and state recreation societies offered me many opportunities to network and work with fellow professionals at all levels. This interaction helped guide me throughout my career, resulting in many cherished friendships. I am very fortunate to have worked my entire recreation career with one agency in a variety of positions and look forward to staying involved with both organizations.” His parting words of advice to recreation students and young professionals is “get involved with your local professional organization; ask lots of questions; be open to advice and guidance; and never stop learning!”

Thank you Tom for your service to parks and recreation, to your community, to NYSRPS. We are better people because of you and by the impact you have had in so many lives. We wish you all the best in your retirement and look forward to serving you still as a cherished member of NYSRPS. - Lisa Morahan, NYSRPS Executive Director

One of his other accomplishments was working with the North High School Hall of Fame Committee to create their Wall of Fame

“…get involved with your local professional organization; ask lots of questions; be open to advice and guidance; and never stop learning!”

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2017 NYSRPS CONFERENCE & WORKSHOP SCHEDULE

Upcoming 2017 Conferences & Workshops April 2-4

May, Date TBA

September 13-15

NYSRPS Annual Conference and Expo

USA Archery Instructor Academy

CPSI

May 3

September 19

Rochester, NY March 10

Red Cross Half-Day Training North Syracuse Community Center North Syracuse, NY March 21-22

CPO (hosted by Aquatic Council) University at Buffalo, Alumni Arena Buffalo, NY March 22-23

CPO (hosted by Aquatic Council) Courtyard by Marriott Albany, NY

Red Cross Half-Day Training Dobinsky Center Ogdensburg, NY

Saratoga Springs, NY

USTA Eastern/ Red Cross Full Day Workshop Rochester, NY

May 4-5

October 6

CPO

USTA Eastern/ Red Cross Full Day Workshop

(hosted by Aquatic Council) Rochester Perinton Aquatic Center Perinton, NY May 16

USTA Eastern / Red Cross Full Day Workshop

Great Neck, Long Island, NY November, Date TBA

NYSRPS Downstate Conference White Plains, NY

Saratoga Springs, NY

2017 NYSRPS Annual Conference and Expo Committee From left to right: Alison Burchett, Ashley Vent, Nick Berlin, Janelle Drach, Matt Steffen, Diana Weber, Linanne Conroy, Christine Winter, Lisa Morahan, Jeff Nutting, Tom Venniro, Diane Riesenberger, Gregg Goodman, James Farr, Jeff Myers

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$25,000 Explore Archery Grant Awarded to NYSRPS With Help of New Partner, USA Archery USA Archery, the National Governing Body for the Olympic sport of archery has also recently partnered with the Boy Scouts of America and Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! Campaign.

Using existing facilities, the very cost effective Explore Archery programs open countless opportunities to engage the community in a safe sport with many health and personal development benefits.

Participants who really enjoy the program can then continue in the sport, either practicing recreationally or even pursuing local, state or national competition. USA Archery’s Collegiate Archery Program is also growing nationwide and is another great reason for young archers to take up the sport as they look for ways to stay fit and active in college and to make friendships that will last a lifetime.

Archery popularity has been skyrocketing nationwide since appearances in feature films such as The Hunger Games, Brave and the Avengers, and of course, the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio. Recognized as one of the safest sports in the world, archery is an incredibly adaptive sport that appeals to people of all ages and abilities. USA Archery has partnered with New York State Recreation and Parks Society (NYSRPS) to secure grant funding to educate archery coaches in the state and meet the demand of interested archers. In an effort to grow archery at the community level, USA Archery helped secure a generous grant donation of $25,000 from the Easton Foundations.

Five NYSRPS agencies will ultimately be chosen for this grant intended to help local parks and recreation departments to start Explore Archery programs across the state.

Explore Archery is a fun, easy way to get started in archery. This short-term program is perfect, whether participants are new to the sport of archery or a beginner archer looking for an introductory program to sign up for, Explore Archery teaches important skills like range safety and proper shooting form, and includes exciting games and the chance to earn achievement awards.

“Archery teaches focus, goal setting, determination and helps participants to build selfconfidence and has many additional health benefits.”

NYSRPS members will receive the opportunity to apply for this grant by visiting nysrps.org.

Those interested must be willing to attend a certification academy to be qualified to teach the Explore Archery program, which includes options for one-day Try Archery programs, instructional classes and camps. This will ensure that participants of the programs are receiving a consistent, top quality introduction to the sport with an emphasis on safety, proper technique and fun. Graduates of the academy will receive an equipment kit valued at $5,000 for their department, the Explore Archery curriculum and other program materials so that they may offer archery as a new sport option for community members.

“Archery is a great sport for participants of all ages and abilities,” commented Mary Emmons, USA Archery, Director of Program Development. “Archery teaches focus, goal setting, determination and helps participants to build self-confidence and has many additional health benefits. It is our hope that by partnering with NYSRPS, target archery will become more accessible to New York state residents at the community level, and provide an alternative sport option for those seeking to be more active.

To learn more about USA Archery and the Explore Archery program, or to find an existing archery program near you, visit www. usarchery.org. For more information on how to apply for the NYSRPS Explore Archery grant visit www.nysrps.org.

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2016 DOWNSTATE CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS

2016 Downstate Conference Held on November 15, 2016 in White Plains, NY was a Terrific Success!

The Downstate Conference Committee is pleased to report this year’s 22nd annual conference gathered over 300 delegates for 27 terrific educational sessions, 30 presenters and 28 commercial exhibitors representing a variety of latest products and services in the leisure service industry.

The day began with a most untimely downpour causing many delegates to arrive late. Although the program was delayed a bit, the weather couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm for our gathering of insight, training and peer networking. All attendees were very understanding and adjusted well to the program changes. The highlight of the day occurred at lunch when a very special presentation was made by Jeremy Cash of METRO and NYSTRA President, Shari Burshtyn recognizing Professor Robin Kunstler for her years of incredible service in therapeutic recreation and involvement in the Downstate Conference.

This annual gathering is hosted by the Westchester Recreation and Park Society, Hudson Valley Leisure Services Association, METRO, New York State Therapeutic Recreation Association and NYSRPS to offer leisure service professionals a wonderful day of education, networking and camaraderie.

Each year’s conference planning begins in February and is a cooperative effort between all organizations to combine strengths and resources for this one day event. If you might like to serve on the 2017 Downstate Committee, please contact NYSRPS Executive Director,Lisa Morahan at lisa@nysrps.org.

We would especially like to thank the following exhibitors for their participation in the Downstate Conference: • American Recreational

Products

• Musco Sports Lighting

• Animal Embassy

• MyRec.com

• BSN SPORTS

• NCTRC

• Club Getaway

• Play and Park

Clearwater • CommunityPass • Copeland Coating

Co, Inc. • DC Sports • EDS Presentations • First Person Sports • Franklin Paint

Company, Inc. • Franklin Sports, Inc.

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Inc.

• Amilia

• Commercial

Back row (left to right): Mary Pearson, CTRS, Jeff Schwartz, MS Ed, CTRS, Shari Wall, MS Ed, CTRS, Carolyn Francis, CTRS; Front row (left to right): Tiquana Gatlin, CTRS, Sharon Webber, student, Megan Concannon, CTRS

• Mid-Atlantic Products,

• Hidden Gems Archery • Jedstock Inc

Structures • PlaySafe Playground

Systems Of NY, Inc • Play-Well TEKnologies • RecDesk Software • Ripley’s Believe It or

Not! Times Square NYC • Saint Joseph’s College • TrueBounce

Backboards Inc. • United Supply Corp.

• Young Equipment

Sales

Dr. Kunstler Presented with Award of Appreciation

Game On! Game Courts

by Nagle Athletic Surfaces

Pictured (left to right): Shari Wall, Robin Kunstler and Jeremy Cash

The Annual Downstate Conference is a very special occasion for the New York State Recreation and Park Society. It is the one time of year that NYSRPS and its affiliated organizations Hudson Valley Leisure Service Associates (HVLSA), Westchester Recreation and Park Society (WRAPS), New York State Therapeutic Recreation Association (NYSTRA) and Metropolitan New York Recreation and Park Society (METRO) assemble therapeutic and municipal professionals alike for a day of intense educational opportunities, networking, camaraderie and commercial exhibits. While the event’s years and sessions have changed, one person’s dedication and incredible contribution to it has not: Dr. Robin Kunstler.

Complete Game Court Installation, Repair and Maintenance.

Early in 2016 the Downstate Conference Committee spoke with joyful anticipation how NYSTRA and METRO might present Dr. Kunstler with an Award of Appreciation at the conference for her years of contributing to the annual program as a speaker, but moreso to recognize her heart and passion for therapeutic recreation and the significant impact she has had upon TR professionals.

Dr. Kunstler touched many lives, many because of the students personally touched by her wisdom and guidance as their professor over 33 years teaching at Lehman College. She has a gifted way to connect with people. She is modest, pragmatic, always upbeat and real. Putting her experience, beliefs and passion into action by word and on paper is what truly makes her extraordinary. Among her many great achievements, Dr. Kunstler co-authored (with F. Stavola Daly) Therapeutic Recreation Leadership and Programming, and authored countless publications on curriculum in the field and societal ills from substance abuse to homelessness.

Dr. Kunstler remarked how much she enjoyed the Downstate Conference and seeing all the Lehman students who attend every year, as well as the Alumni active in the field. She also noted delivering the keynote address on inclusion years ago as well as receiving this 2016 Appreciation Award were among her most memorable experiences. “Recreation people are the nicest people. Getting together always feels like family,” she commented. She parted with these words of encouragement to anyone pursuing a career in therapeutic recreation, “If it’s right for you, it will just “click” and you’ll know it!”.

www.nagleathletic.com

“Congratulations!” Dr. Kunstler for your many years of hard work touching lives, making a difference and we wish you all the very best in the future with your hopes of retirement in 2017.

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New York State Recreation and Parks Society “Friends Foundation” College Scholarship Program The Friends Scholarship is available to undergraduates and graduate college students who are majoring in the Recreation, Parks and Leisure Services field. A major in Physical Education does not meet the requirements of this scholarship.

2016 scholarship winner, Mary McNally, with Paul Blake

Applicants must be residents of New York State and be attending an accredited college in New York State on a full-time or regular part-time basis.

It is the intent of the scholarship committee to award as many scholarships as financially possible on an annual basis, each in the amount of $750.00. The announcement of the scholarship winners will coincide with the Society’s 77th Annual Conference and Business Expo scheduled this year from April 2-4, 2017 at the Hyatt Regency in Rochester, New York and is presented as part of the formal awards ceremony.

Scholarship awards will be made upon verification of successful completion of one full semester in the current year. Applicants will be judged on their academic record, leadership, co-curricular and out of

school activities, resourcefulness, personal philosophy, professional affiliations and involvement. Scholarship awards will be made on the basis of this application and supporting material. There will be no interviews.

To apply, please visit Awards and Recognition tab under Membership on the website nysrps.org.

All applications must be postmarked no later than March 3, 2017 to: William V. Zimmermann, Chairman NYSRPS “Friends Foundation Scholarship” 515 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10801 (914) 654-2092 wzimmerm@newrochelleny.com A scholarship committee has been appointed to review the applications and recommend the award winners. The committee’s decisions are final.

Required attachments:

- College transcripts (Copies acceptable)

- Three letters of recommendation

- Additional support materials

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USTA Eastern Provides Opportunities to Play Tennis USTA Eastern is a not-for-profit community service organization focused on growing participation in tennis. In an effort to develop tennis participation, the section continually seeks to partner with organizations that share the desire to provide opportunities for people of all ages to play and learn tennis, have fun and get fit. The Eastern Section offers several grants to organizations throughout the year, aimed at increasing tennis participation.

One of USTA Eastern’s main grant opportunities is provided by the Eastern Junior Tennis Foundation (JTF). The JTF offers grants to help non-profit organizations, such as park and recreation departments, to initiate or expand tennis activities. Grants may be used for instructional programs or leagues geared toward juniors. Applications for the JTF grants will be available in late winter or early spring of 2017.

“The grants provide kids with the opportunity to start or continue playing tennis,” Joe Steger, USTA Eastern Western Region Tennis Service Representative said. “Offering support to New York area parks allows for a diverse network of parents and kids to be reached.”

Another one of USTA Eastern’s grant opportunities is provided by the Eastern Adult Tennis Foundation (EATF). The EATF offers grants to help non-profit organizations as well, with a focus on adult programming. These

discounted equipment to organizations we refer.”

applications are made available in June.

Growing Tennis Together grants are also given out to organizations looking to start or expand new tennis programs at all levels. These particular grants can focus on growing tennis for youth and/or adults through programming that could include USTA flagship programs such as Junior Team Tennis, Eastern sanctioned tournaments for juniors and adults and USTA Adult Leagues. The long-term goal for all of these funding streams is to help programs become self-sufficient.

Children are introduced to tennis easier than ever before using an interactive and educational format. Use of smaller racquets, low compression tennis balls and smaller courts allow children to rally and be successful from the start. A great way to introduce new players into programs is through USTA Play Days.

Tennis providers can host and register their Play Days on USTA.com, making it easy for parents and children to find events in their area.

“The use of age-appropriate equipment is key to ensuring that children have a positive first experience with tennis,” Steger said.

“We work with manufacturers that provide

With a team of experienced staff and clinicians, USTA Eastern also offers workshops tailored to the needs of providers. There are several resources, including Coach Youth Tennis (www.coachyouthtennis.com), available to park and recreation departments. The Coach Youth Tennis program will help anyone working with kids to ensure that they have a great time and want to keep playing. USTA Eastern conducts workshops periodically throughout the section, and also has access to curriculum materials and other resources for instructors and program providers.

In addition, park and recreation departments can renovate or expand tennis facilities with help from the USTA. Facility resources include grants to help with court construction, renovations and lines for smaller courts, blacktops or playgrounds. Services also include free technical support to help assess, develop, design and plan facilities.

For more information on USTA Eastern’s programs, resources and support, contact Joe Steger at steger@eastern.usta.com or 914-2824153, or visit www.eastern.usta.com. USTA Eastern is comprised of six regions, all of which have a Tennis Service Representative (TSR) in the field to develop programs and support the organizations that help to grow tennis participation.

Streamline Purchasing with Cooperatives Thanks to the sponsorship of the New York State Recreation and Park Society, parks have a tremendous opportunity to take the lead in utilizing innovative, cost-saving best practices.

As theylook ahead and develop strategies for the rest of the year, it would bebeneficial to consider the use of cooperative purchasing, an effective tool to help save time and money. In an economic climate where parks are pushed to do more with less, cooperatives can easily assist with purchasing needs.

What is Cooperative Purchasing?

Cooperative purchasing combines the collective buying power of multiple agencies in order to provide a contract that can be utilized by other public agencies. A cooperative contract can improve the overall effectiveness of the purchasing process by providing volume discounts, administrative savings and other benefits. Essentially, if a public agency goes out to bid for a product or service, other public

agencies can piggyback off of that contract by using a cooperative and receive the same product or service at the negotiated discounted price. By avoiding the bid process, this is a great opportunity for parks to save valuable time and resources – piggybacking lowers the effort and the cost associated with traditional procurement.

About U.S. Communities The largest national cooperative, U.S. Communities, is the only purchasing cooperative founded by public agencies, for public agencies. Since its founding twenty

years ago, U.S. Communities has generated millions of dollars in savings for users. Today more than 55,000 registered counties, cities, education institutions and nonprofits utilize U.S. Communities contracts to procure more than 2 billion dollars in products and services annually. There are no fees to participate and no purchasing minimums, allowing maximum flexibility for participating agencies.

The distinguished sponsors that cofounded and co-own U.S. Communities include: the National Association of Counties (NACo), the National League of Cities (NLC), the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM), the National Governor’s Association (NGA), and the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO). In addition, the New York State Recreation and Park Society, along with 90 state associations, shows its support for U.S. Communities through sponsorship.

For more information on U.S. Communities, please visit www.uscommunities.org.

The Voice | WINTER/SPRING 2017 • nysrps.org 21

NYSRPS REGIONS, REGIONAL PARTNERS AND AFFILIATES

NYSRPS Regions, Regional Partners and Affiliates New York State is divided into 3 regions (per bylaws) with the intent to provide full representation of park, recreation and therapeutic recreation professionals across NY State on the NYSRPS Board. two representatives from each region is asked to serve from each region, each for three-year terms. Regional representatives’ terms are staggered in an effort to ensure each region is represented at all times.

Regions: Region 1 – Hudson Valley, Long Island, Metro, and Westchester Region 2 – Central NY, Capital Region, Adirondack-Lake Champlain and North Country Region 3 – Genesee Valley and Niagara Frontier

Regional Partners and the counties they service: Central New York – Broome, Cayuga, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego, Tioga, Tompkins Genesee Valley – Chemung, Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, Yates North Country – St. Lawrence, Lewis, Jefferson, Franklin

Affiliates: The following are fellow associations of NYSRPS: Metropolitan Recreation and Park Society, Westchester Recreation and Park Society, Long Island Leisure Services Association, Hudson Valley Leisure Service Association, and Niagara Frontier.

CNYRPS Celebrates Holiday Party

GVRPS Awards Winners

Central New York Recreation and Park Society celebrated their holiday party at Highland Forest on December 16th, 2016. A beautiful sleigh ride was enjoyed by all.

GVRPS celebrated its Annual Awards ceremony November 18, 2016. NYSRPS would like to congratulate the following Award recipients for their accomplishments: Christine Z. Howe Scholarship Award.................. Yezenia Rodriguez,

Nicole Woodcock, College at Brockport Outstanding Service Award............. Andrea Hansen, Town of Ogden Young Professional Award.........................Ashley Vent, Town of Chili Good Gal..................................... Alison Burchett, Town of Pittsford Steven R. Fowler Good Guy................. Jason Kulik, Town of Henrietta Distinguished Citizen........................... Pat Mallery, Town of Pittsford Elected Official............................... Michael Barker, Town of Perinton

Pictured are Charlie Bisnett (left front), Kristine Zingaro (left middle), Tony Burkinshaw (left back), Peter Bardou (right back), Peggy Kenyon (right middle) and Teresa Roth (right front).

22 The Voice | WINTER/SPRING 2017 • nysrps.org

ABCD Award.............................Chauncy Young, Victor Hiking Trails Special Event...... Skating with Santa, Chemung County Youth Bureau Multimedia.............Town of Hamlin, Recreation Department Website Outstanding Corporate Leadership.................................. Wegmans

REGIONAL PARTNER NEWS

NYSRPS Officially Welcomes New Regional Partner: North Country Recreation and Leisure Professionals In 2016 The New York State Recreation & Park Society reviewed the District Status program and formed an ad hoc committee to assess the program and its value to both regional associations and NYSRPS alike. The focus of the District Status program, which began over 20 years ago, was to join NYSRPS with regional recreation affiliates to combine strengths, reduce the duplication of services and further the cohesiveness of New York’s leisure service industry. District Status allowed each region to enjoy their autonomy, while expanding the services offered to their members and alleviating administrative duties. The program allowed for all members of the local organizations a membership in NYSRPS, while NYSRPS members received membership at their local levels.

the North Country Recreation & Leisure Professionals’ petition to join as a Regional Partner, joining our other two current Regional Partners, GVRPS and Central NY.

As a result of the committee’s work the program was renamed Regional Partnership and an official Regional Partnership Guideline was created that would clearly define the intention of the program, outline its benefits and give clear direction to groups wishing to align more formally with the State Society as a Regional Partner.

We began as members of the Adirondack Lake Champlain Recreation and Park Society.

Bryon Bissonette and Robert Robare were the glue of that organization. Our membership included professionals from Clinton, Essex, Franklin & St. Lawrence Counties. As you can see, that was an enormous area we covered. Over the years we became the Adirondack District. When Bryon and Bob retired the group kind of drifted and eventually became inactive.

NYSRPS recognized that NYSRPS’s current Regional Partners of Genesee Valley Recreation & Park Society (GVRPS) and Central New York were strong, had active members, provided regular professional development opportunities and offered an immediate reach to commercial/agency members. These assets are a highly-valued resource for the State Society for its many needs including: educational programming, conference planning, membership development and retention, committee involvement and board and fundraising initiatives.

The Regional Partnership program operates upon the premise “The Whole is Greater Than the Sum of Its Parts” and seeks to have a Regional Partner in each of the following regions across New York State: Niagara, Genesee Valley, Central, North Country, Adirondack, Capital, Westchester, Hudson Valley, Metro and Long Island.

The Regional Partnership Guideline provided the roadmap for one regional group of recreation and leisure professionals to formally organize as a not-for-profit corporation with the Department of New York State. In October of 2016 the NYSRPS Board officially accepted

The following provided by John Taillon, Town & Village of Canton Recreation Director gives the history of this newly formed Regional Partner, and why its establishment was part of the legacy he sought to leave upon retirement. We thank you John, for your steadfast determination in formally organizing your group and we look forward to working together with NCRLP in developing membership in your region along with providing worthy programs for your professionals.

–Lisa Morahan, NYSRPS Executive Director

Back in 2012 or 2013, I cannot remember which, our Adirondack District was informed that due to inactivity we would be absorbed by the Capital District. Upon hearing this I took it upon myself to try and save our group and our unique identity. I called a meeting which was held in Potsdam to gauge the interest in continuing.

I felt we had interest and we scheduled a meeting to be held in Plattsburgh to elect new officers and proceed. To make a long story short, that meeting never materialized and the Adirondack District dissolved.

Undaunted I decided to form an organization made up solely of professionals from here in the St. Lawrence Valley. As mentioned above I felt very strongly about keeping our unique identity and not being absorbed by another region. I also knew the benefits of staying part of the NYSRPS. So in 2014 with the help of my fellow Recreation Directors–the St. Lawrence

Health initiative and the St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau, I put together a list of fellow recreation and leisure professionals and sent out an invitation to meet in Canton with the express intent to form a new group. The response was tremendous. That initial meeting saw nearly 30 people attend.

Over the next year we met a few times and the interest was genuine so I went ahead and got us organized. I did not reinvent the wheel but used the outline from our old Adirondack District to write our bylaws and set up our organizational structure. We meet twice a year in the fall and spring and officers meet in addition when needed. We have also expanded our membership from St. Lawrence County to now include Franklin, Jefferson and Lewis Counties. In March of 2015 we held our first election of officers. I am proud to say, I guess as the “Founding Father” LOL , I was elected president and still serve in that capacity until this spring of 2017.

At this time, after 33 years in recreation and the last 30 as the Town & Village of Canton Recreation Director, I am retiring.

Even in retirement I will serve a term as past president and pass the torch on to my fellow professionals. My hope is to see our group continue to grow its membership. We have barely scratched the surface in this regard.

There are numerous others in our area we need to get involved. I also hope our group will continue to find new ways to serve the needs of our members. In the future I would also like to see NYSRPS offer more programming in our area. Currently we have to travel some distance.

For any other groups out there considering becoming a regional partner with NYSRPS it is a relatively easy process. We received considerable help from Lisa Morahan, who I am sure would offer the same help and guidance.

In closing I would just like to say it has been very rewarding to me and my agency to have been a member of NYSRPS over the last 30 years.

- John S. Taillon, Town & Village of Canton Recreation Director Visit nysrps.org for the Regional Partnership Guideline under Regions/Affiliates for full details of Regional Partnership, its description, benefits and process for petitioning. Contact NYSRPS Executive Director, Lisa Morahan at lisa@nysrps. org or call (518) 584-3935 for more information.

The Voice | WINTER/SPRING 2017 • nysrps.org 23

REGIONAL PARTNER NEWS Genesee Valley Recreation and Park Society Jason R. Kulik President Town of Henrietta Director of Parks and Recreation 475 Calkins Road Henrietta, NY 14467 Phone: (585) 359-7052 jkulik@henrietta.org

Central NY Recreation and Parks Society (CNYRPS) Teresa Roth President Village of North Syracuse Director of Parks and Recreation 600 South Bay Road North Syracuse, NY 13212 315-458-8050 parksdirector@northsyracuseny.org

North Country Recreation and Leisure Professionals (NCRLP) John Taillon President Canton Recreation 60 Main Street Canton, NY 13617 315-386-3992 recreation@cantonny.us

MARK YOUR CALENDARS Preparing Your Fields for Spring Wednesday, February 22, 2017 9 – 11 a.m.

Cost: $10; CEU’s $4 pending approval It’s time to get your athletic and multi-use fields ready! Hear from Chris Hyman of MTE, Turf Equipment Solutions on what you need to do for a successful season.

GVRPS Bowling Night Friday, March 10 7 p.m.

AMF Empire, Webster, NY Cost: $20 per person Don’t miss our annual night out! Join us for the 13th Annual GVRPS Bowling night at new location Webster Empire Lanes and have a great time supporting GVRPS. Cost is $20.00 per person which includes 2 hours of bowling, shoes, 2 slices of pizza and 1 soft drink. To register please contact Stacie Paris at Gates Recreation Department, phone number (585) 247-6100 x.234 no later than March 3, 2017.

CNYRPS Red Cross Half Day Training Friday, March 10, 2017 North Syracuse Community Center North Syracuse, NY. 77th Annual NYSRPS Conference & Expo Sunday-Tuesday, April 2-4, 2017 Hyatt Regency Rochester 125 E. Main Street, Rochester Join Regional Host GVRPS for this terrific 3 day event full of educational opportunities, networking and camaraderie. Conference information will be brought to you via Eventsential Conference App! Download to Go Green and save $25 using special Promo Code advertised only on the app during registration process.

24 The Voice | WINTER/SPRING 2017 • nysrps.org

GVRPS Annual Meeting Friday, May 12, 2017 1 - 4 p.m. @ Henrietta Recreation Center 605 Calkins Road, Henrietta Free for GVRPS Members CEU’s $4 pending approval Join us for lunch and an educational session/tour of the new Henrietta Recreation Center. Henrietta Town Supervisor, Jack Moore, Henrietta Director of Parks & Recreation, Jason Kulik, and Lead Architect from Passero Associates, Peter Wehner, will present.

GVRPS Summer Camp Staff Training Thursday, June 22, 2017 8:45 a.m. - noon Henrietta Recreation Center 605 Calkins Road, Henrietta Cost: 1-20 Staff - $5 per person; 21+ staff - $100 fee Additional $10 fee per non-member agency Games generator, geocaching, mindfulness and more for your Summer Camp Staff! This program emphasizes leadership and teamwork development.

NYSRPS Regional Partners NYSRPS Regional Partners are independent associations who have partnered with NYSRPS. RP’s are regional organizations who meet regularly with their local leisure service professionals and extend membership.

Members of the local organizations enjoy a dual membership; one membership covers both a NYSRPS State membership as well as membership in their local organization. This joint relationship provides dual membership to local association as well as the State Society.

The purpose of this relationship between local associations and the State Society is to combine strengths, reduce the duplication of services, and further the cohesiveness of New York State’s leisure service industry. These partnerships allow for each region to enjoy their autonomy, while expanding services offered to their members.

For more information visit nysrps.org.

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The Voice | WINTER/SPRING 2017 • nysrps.org 25

5

Membership Matters!

New York State Recreation & Park Society

Join NYSRPS as a member and get connected with professionals all across New York State.

Park and Recreation Professionals throughout New York State since 1940 have benefited from the variety of educational opportunities, resources and networking the State Society provides through a multitude of avenues. College students pursuing a career in parks and recreation also gain knowledge and practical working experience through NYSRPS. Retirees, park and recreation specialists and more all may join NYSRPS to help provide the best professional resources to park and recreation professionals in New York State.

As an NYSRPS member you will receive the following benefits including, but not limited to: • Annual Conference & Business Expo • Continuing Education Credits • Awards and Recognition • Employment • Resource Center

• Conferences and Education • Networking • Legislative Advocacy • Publications • Products and Services

Find a membership that suits your needs: Agency - a public, private, voluntary, or non-profit agency serving the leisure service field.

Includes recreation departments, college staff and military.

• Small Agency ($425) -includes up to 4 members on roster plus head

• Large Agency ($750)- includes up to 9 members on roster plus head

• Each additional member to roster is $65 Professional ($85-$150) - rate based upon income- Individual who principally engages in the delivery of recreation or park services.

Associate ($85) - Serves as a layperson to the leisure, recreation or park field.

Friend ($50) - parks, recreation and leisure industry enthusiasts that would like to show support for the Society.

Student Chapters - Organized park, recreation or leisure service club at an accredited New York State college or university. There are two sizes of student chapters:

• Small Student Chapter ($240)- up to 7 students and 1 faculty

• Large Student Chapter ($450)- 14 or more students and 1 faculty.

• Each additional Student ($30) Additional Faculty ($65) Full-Time Student ($35) - attends a full time (12 credit hours) leisure service curriculum, such as recreation, parks, tourism, or physical education.

Part-Time Employee ($35) - works a limited, part time schedule who would like to be connected with park & recreation professionals.

Retiree ($35) - has been employed full-time in leisure services, was a former member for at least five years, and is retired from active service.

NYSRPS’s renewal cycle is Feb 1-Jan 31, 2018. If you haven’t renewed your membership, please do so TODAY! Interested in JOINING NYSRPS? Needing to renew? Visit the membership page at nysrps.org.

For further membership questions please call NYSRPS at (518) 584-0321or contact our Executive Director, Lisa Morahan at lisa@nysrps.org.

26 The Voice | WINTER/SPRING 2017 • nysrps.org

Consignments Tickets for Ski Resorts Every year NYSRPS partners with popular ski and amusement parks across New York to pass along a great savings and give our membership a way to make a few dollars by selling these discounted tickets. Help support the following park and recreation departments and hit the slopes this winter!

Participating mountains this year will include Bromley, Hunter, Windham and Mountain Creek.

Order information will be available in October with tickets ready to sell by Thanksgiving.

For questions regarding our consignment ticket program contact Lisa Morahan at lisa@nysrps.prg.

Well Together Parks are a vital community resource. They provide opportunities for individuals to connect socially, opportunities for exercise and physical activity, opportunities for fun and leisure participation, opportunities to connect with nature…but I don’t have to tell you this, you’re a park professional! But what you might not know, is that parks offer important opportunities for individuals diagnosed with mental illnesses to participate independently in the community. In fact, a survey conducted by the Temple University Collaborative on Community Inclusion found that 72% of individuals diagnosed with a mental illness reported that going to a park or recreation center was important to them. Of these individuals, 48% would like to attend more frequently.

The physical and mental health benefits of parks and recreation are particularly important for this population. Research suggests that individuals with mental illnesses are less likely than the general population to meet the physical activity guidelines and are at greater risk for cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, which contributes to a life expectancy that’s 30 years shorter than those without mental health diagnoses. In addition to opportunities for physical activity, natural settings are a resource for reducing stress and symptoms of depression. They physical and mental health benefits of parks are well known. Why then, are there significant numbers of individuals with mental illnesses who value parks, but are not participating at desired levels?

By: Gretchen Snethen, PhD, CTRS

There are a number of reasons why these individuals may not access parks and recreation resources at desired levels; however, before any real discussion of these can take place, it is important to first acknowledge that individuals who experience mental illnesses have the right to engage in personally meaningful activities and participate in independently in the community. Too often, there’s an assumption that a person must meet a certain level of readiness before they can pursue community inclusion. Assumptions like this place the diagnosis before the person and do not value the unique strengths, experiences, problems and histories that are integral to one’s identity.

By embracing these values, it is then possible to start to explore and address the reasons why individuals with mental illnesses may not utilize park resources as frequently as desired.

Many individuals know that parks and recreation facilities provide opportunities for youth. Beyond green space, adults may not be aware of available programs and services. The general public typically learns about these opportunities through the Internet and social media, resources that are not equitably available to individuals who experience mental illnesses. One strategy to help connect individuals to communitybased resources is to host a community fair that features community opportunities for recreation participation. These types of fairs provide individuals with mental illnesses a chance to explore opportunities for sustainable participation and talk with community organizations. Beyond raising awareness of community resources, these fairs also give recreation professionals the opportunity to interact with individuals who experience mental illnesses. This provides the opportunity to better understand the types of activities that individuals are interested in, the opportunity to see motivations individuals have for participation, and the opportunity

to see individuals with mental illnesses as people, just like everyone else.

Other strategies to support inclusive communities are to ensure parks and recreation facilities are welcoming to diverse individuals, including individuals with mental illnesses. Over the next year, the Temple University Collaborative on Community Inclusion is looking forward to partner with the New York Recreation and Parks Society to ensure parks are welcoming and inclusive of individuals with mental illnesses. The Collaborative, a research and training center funded through the National Institutes on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research, strives to a) target obstacles that prevent people mental illnesses from being full members of their communities; b) develop the supports consumers and communities need to enhance the prospects for community integration; and c) expand the range of opportunities for people who have mental illnesses to participate in their communities as active and equal members.

Similarly, NYRPS promotes the provision of recreation and park opportunities for all New Yorkers. These complementary missions will form the basis for an ongoing relationship that will feature trainings and opportunities for technical assistance. This partnership is the first of its kind and has the potential to create a model program of how recreation and park programs can include individuals with mental illnesses. We are exploring opportunities for webinars, workshops, and student internships, among others. In order to best serve NYRPS members, a survey will be sent to members in order to better understand the types of trainings that will help recreation and park providers create environments that are inclusive to individuals who experience mental illnesses.

Gretchen Snethen, PhD, CTRS Assistant Professor Department of Rehabilitation Sciences Assistant Director - TU Collaborative on Community Inclusion MSRT Program Coordinator Temple University 1700 N. Broad, Suite 301-A Philadelphia, PA 19122 gsnethen@temple.edu (215) 204-2748

The Voice | WINTER/SPRING 2017 • nysrps.org 27

2017 Commercial Membership Guide AQUATIC SAFETY EQUIPMENT

GOVERNMENT PURCHASING

Deschamps Mat Systems Inc. 618 Little Falls Rd. Unit 7-8 Cedar Grove, NJ 07009 973-928-3040 northeast.sales@mobi-mat-dms.com

*U.S. Communities Zac Adams Northeast Program Manager 51-603-3263 zadams@uscommunities.org

Mateflex.com Kevin Wheelock 2007 Beechgrove Place Utica, NY 13501 315-733-1412 kwheelock@matflex.com ARCHITECTS/ENGINEERS *Maxian + Horst Terry Horst 306 Hawley Ave. Syracuse, NY 13203 315-472-2461 thorst@maxianhorst.com Weston & Sampson Dan Biggs 1 Winners Circle Albany, NY 12205 biggsd@wseinc.com

LIGHTNING PREDICTION AND WARNING SYSTEMS Thor Guard Inc Bob Dugan 1193 Sawgrass Corp Parkway Sunrise, Fl 33323 954-835-0900 sales@thorguard.com MARINE ACCESSORIES *Morgan Recreational Supply, Inc. Tim Prokop 6013 Denny Dr. Farmington, NY 14425 585-924-7188 salesinfo@morganrec.com PAINTS & COATINGS

CONSULTANTS C. Pine Associates Christopher Pine 4 Barlows Landing Road Suite 12 Pocasset, MA 02559 508-564-4465 chris@cpineassociates.com Wright Risk Management Company, Inc. Robert Blaisdell 333 Earle Ovinton Blvd Suite 505 Uniondale, NY 11553 518-330-8591 rblaisdell@wrightinsurance.com DISK GOLF SUPPLIES Innova Disk Golf Ryan Baker 2850 Commerce Drive Rock Hill, SC 29730 800-476-3968 ryan.baker@innovadisgolf.com ENTERTAINMENT Fun Flicks Timothy Bennett PO Box 685 Cortland, NY 13045 315-663-5005 timothy@funflicks.com Quassy Amusement Park Ron Gustafson PO Box 887 Middlebury, CT 06762 203-758-2913, ext 109 ron@quassy.com WonderWorks Ashley Doss 9090 Destiny USA Drive Syracuse, NY 13204 315-466-7700 x 417 adoss@wonderworksdestiny.com

Franklin Paint Company Paul Merritt 259 Cottage St. Franklin, MA 02038 508-528-0303 lauretta@franklinpaint.com Super Seal Sealcoating Gregory Duffy PO Box 925 Penfield, NY 14526 585-248-5770 Duffygj@aol.com

Gametime/Marturano Jim Marturano PO Box 106 Spring Lake, NJ 07762 800-922-0070 james206@optonline.net

Playsites + Surfaces, Inc. Darrell Wilson 908-B Long Island Ave. Deer Park, NY 11729 631-392-0960 dwilson@playsitesplus.com

*KOMPAN, Inc Jeff LaRue 930 Broadway Tacoma, WA 98402 917-697-8183 jeflar@kompan.com

SealMaster – Buffalo Richard Ortiz PO Box 7257 Buffalo, NY 14240 716-891-4197 smbuffalo2@yahoo.com

*Parkitects, Inc./Site Specialists Karen Armstrong 138 Ludlowville Rd. Lansing, NY 14882 607-533-3517, ext 101 karen@playgroundinfo.com

Velvetop Products Bill Walsh 1455 NY Ave Huntington Station, NY 11746 631-427-5904 bwalsh@velvetop.com

Play and Park Structures John Posanti 920 Bayshore Ave West Islip, NY 11795 jposanti@playandpark.com R.E. Woodson Bob Woodson 3520 Dewey Ave Rochester, NY 14616 585-865-0554 rwoodso1@rochester.rr.com Schoolscapes Incorporated Christopher Leavold 38 West Main St. Clifton Springs, NY 14432 315-906-0050 chris@schoolscapes.com Vortex Aquatic Structure Anne LeDuc 328 Avro Pointe Claire, QC H9R5W5 514-694-3868 aleduc@vortex-intl.com

PET WASTE *BagSpot Pet Waste Jeff Springer 9648 Olive Blvd.#313 St. Louis, MO 63132 1-800-203-3613/314-755-1037 info@bagspot.com

PLAYGROUND MULCH Cousineau Forest Products 1310 Old Concord Rd. Henniker, NH 03242 603-428-7155 jim@cousineaus.com cousineauforestproducts.com

Bears Playgrounds Danny Bears 7625 E. Main Rd. Lima, NY 14485 585-624-5694 info@bearsplaygrounds.com BigToys Playgrounds John LaRue 35 Oak Forest Dr. Little Compton, RI 02837 800-986-3716 info@jplarue.com

28 The Voice | WINTER/SPRING 2017 • nysrps.org

*RenoSys Corporation Shanda Lybrook 2825 East 55th Pl. Indianapolis, IN 46220 317-251-0207 shandal@renosys.com Commercial Clearwater Co., Inc. Paul Meilink P.O. Box 909 Plandome, NY 11030 516-294-7985 help@911pool.com H Krevit Inc Blake Brock 67 Welton Street New Haven, CT 06534 rbbrock@comcast.net Vortex Aquatic Structures Ann LeDuc 328 Avro Pointe Claire, QC Canada H9R 514-694-3868 aleduc@vortex-int.com SITE AMENITIES

PLAYGROUND SAFETY INSPECTION

Jamestown Advanced Products Shari Eckman 2855 Girts Rd Jamestown, NY 14701 716-483-3406 seckman@jamestownadvanced.com

Peggy Payne & Assoc. Inc Peggy Payne 146 Broadway Hawthorne, NY 10532 914-747-3237 ppaplay@aol.com

Most Dependable Fountains Bob Beachum 283 Kimbrough Place Memphis, TN 38104 800-542-8269 rbeachum@comcast.net

PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT American Recreational Products Bob Brown 1535 Locust Ave. Bohemia, NY 11716 631-244-0011 bob@americanrecreational.com

POOL CONSTRUCTION & SUPPLIES

SURFACING Copeland Coating Company Albert Giamei PO Box 595 Nassau, NY 12123 518-766-2932 agiamei@copelandcoating.com

Oldcastle Precast Inc. Steve Grischott 3900 Glover Rd. Easton, PA 18040 484-548-6502 sgrischott@modcon.com

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2017 Commercial Membership Guide R.J. Thomas Mfg. Co. Inc. Bob Simonsen PO Box 946 Cherokee, IA 51012 712-225-5796 pilotrock@rjthomas.com SEAL COATING/ASPHALT Rochester Jet-Blak Sealers, Inc. Gary Rosbrook 16 Deep Rock Road, PO Box 24362 Rochester, NY 14624 585-441-4125 gary.jetblak@gmail.com SOFTWARE *Amilla 1751 Richardson Street Montreal, QC H3K 1G6 1-877-343-0004 amilia.com Capturepoint.com Lisa Sands 141 Dayton S. Rm. 204 Ridgewood, NJ 07450 201-689-2323 x204 lsands@capturepoint.com Cartegraph Damien Waid 3600 Digital Drive Dubuque, Iowa 52003 563-587-3318 damienwait@cartegraph.com

*MYREC Ray Foley PO Box 302 Killington, VT 05751 1-866-466-9732 myres.com *RecDesk Software Mike Morris 222 Pitkin Street East Hartford, CT 06108 860-467-4325 mike.morris@recdesk.com recdesk.com RecPro Software Dale Geiger 35807 Moravian Drive Clinton Township, Michigan 48035 586-469-4200 dgeiger@recprosoftware.com *Vermont Systems Kathy Messier 12 Market Place Essex Junction, VT 05452 802-879-6993, ext 3028 kathym@vermontsystems.com SPORT COURTS Gaga Court Lynn Hoggan 285 East RockinghamCourt Salt Lake City, UT 84115 lynn@gagacourt.com gagaball.net

SPORTING GOOD SUPPLIES/EQUIPMENT Advantage Sport & Fitness Jay Woodworth 2255 N Triphammer Rd Ithaca, NY 14850 607-257-2107 ajwoodworth@advantagefitness.com

STAGE RENTALS AND SALES *BSN Sports Elliot Schwebel 27 Schalren Dr. Latham, NY 12110 518-783-1632 eschwebel@sportsupplygroup.com C&C Vending Michael Weiss 70 Macquestern Pkwy Mt. Vernon, NY 10550 914-665-2730 michael.weiss@ccvend-usa.com Core Elements Gym Esther Hollander 492-c Cedar Lane Teaneck, NJ 07666 646-408-7486 esther@coreelementsgym.com

Edina, Mn 55435 763-235-2174 rfp@maxsolutions.com

Stageline Mobil Stage Mark Higgins 700 Marsolais St L’Assomption, Quebec j5w2g9 450-589-1603 mark.higgins@stageline.com TENNIS SUPPLIES *USTA Eastern Joe Steger 70 West Red Oak Lane White Plains, NY 10604 914-282-4153 steger@eastern.usta.com TURF SPECIALISTS

G&G Fitness Equipment Inc. Tony Giordano 7350 Transit Rd. Williamsville, NY 14221 800-537-0516 tony@livefit.com

Classic Turf Company Ryan Conroy PO Box 55 437 Sherman Hill Rd Woodbury, CT 06798 860-248-1583 ryan@classicturf.org

SPORTS LIGHTING

Shaw Sports Turf Todd Britton 185 S. Industrial Blvd.

Calhoun, GA 30701 706-217-9690 todd.britton@shawinc.com

*Eaton’s Epesus Lighting 125 East Jefferson Street Syracuse, NY 13202 315-579-2879 RebeccaFirman@eaton.com ephesuslighting.com

Maximum Solutions Inc. Jesse Parker 4570 W 77th St., Suite 365

*Musco Lighting Don Rhuda 22 Chestnut Dr. Mahopac, NY 10541 845-628-4577 don.rhuda@musco.com

Green Arc Energy Advisors Guy Chimay 601 West 26th Street Suite 325 New York, NY 10001 347-393-5202 gchimay@greenarceadv.com

* Signifies business partners

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SPACE 1 issue 2 issues Back Cover................................. $875............... $800 Inside Front or Back Cover............ $775............... $725 Full Page (7.625 x 10.25 in)........... $725............... $675 Half Page (7.625 x 5.125 in) .......... $515................ $475 Quarter Page (3.813 x 5.125 in)...... $315................ $275

Magazine trim size is 8.5 x 11 in. Live area is 7.625 x 10.25 in.

If supplying full page bleed ad, please add 1/8 in bleed to trim size.

*All prices are quoted at NYSRPS Commercial Member rate per ad, per issue. Non-member rates higher - inquire for details.

Submit advertisements as: print-ready PDF file. Resolution should be 300-350 ppi. When supplying PDF files, embed all images and fonts.

To become a Commercial Member, or to purchase advertising space contact: Director of Communications pr@nysrps.org or 518-584-0321 The Voice | WINTER/SPRING 2017 • nysrps.org 29

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Be seen. Be heard. Advertise in The Voice.

The Voice Advertising Rates* Publication frequency: Printed twice annually Issues: Winter/Spring (due Jan 5) and

Summer/Fall (due June 1).

SPACE 1 issue 2 issues Back Cover............................... $875............... $800 Inside Front or Back Cover.......... $775............... $725 Full Page (7.625 x 10.25 in).......... $725.............. $675 Half Page (7.625 x 5.125 in) ......... $515............... $475 Quarter Page (3.813 x 5.125 in).... $315............... $275 *All prices are NYSRPS Commercial Member rate per ad, per issue. Non-member rates higher inquire for details.

To become a Commercial Member, or to purchase ad space contact: pr@nysrps.org or 518-584-0321.

30 The Voice | WINTER/SPRING 2017 • nysrps.org

The Voice | WINTER/SPRING 2017 • nysrps.org 31

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32 The Voice | WINTER/SPRING 2017 • nysrps.org

BagSpot

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New York State Recreation and Park Society, Inc. Saratoga Spa State Park 19 Roosevelt Dr., Suite 200 Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

NYS Certified Woman-Owned Small Business NYS OGS Contract #PC67465