UpFront
What An Idea Can Do!
Innovation is a beautiful thing. It’s that next step beyond an idea, that spark of brilliance that transforms imagination and gives birth to something new, inspiring, and perhaps significant enough to motivate a change for the better.
In this month’s Parks & Recreation, you’ll follow a silver thread of innovation through several of the feature articles. In “Edgy Recreation,” Jennifer Whalen writes about low-impact vehicles and devices that go far beyond rollerblades or a standard bicycle. She introduces you to the Trikke carving vehicle, a three-wheeled transport that you maneuver using a side-to-side, slalom-like action. Also read about the Kitewing, a large single wing that can sail users across a frozen lake and even lift them several feet off the ground.
In a sidebar to the article, our own Fletcher Slater writes about Powerbockers, jumping stilts that transform an ordinary walking stride into superhero bounds. Check out our Web site to see David Churchill, owner of DC Power Stilts in Washington, D.C., demonstrate how to use these very cool—and ecofriendly— devices.
In “Recreation Redo,” Michael Pinto chronicles the process of taking La Palma, California's 30-year-old community center, a complex of disconnected outdated buildings, and renovating it with design innovations that capture light and blend bold and arresting colors. The result? A community center that functions efficiently; stands out, yet blends harmoniously with the surrounding park; and inspires town residents to embrace a newfound identity.
Cate Lineberry changes the pace to a quiet stroll in “Birders’ Paradise,” where she explores the beauty of Resaca dde la Palma, Texas' newest state park. But this isn’t just any state park; this scenic attraction caters to bird-watchers and butterfly enthusiasts.
In “Go Outside and Play!” Carrie Stolar writes about Wise Kids Outdoors, a new program that takes children who have been deprived of the benefits of regular outdoor play and exploration and gives them the tools they need to get comfortable with nature. The program is a proven success. And to think that in some way, every thing here started with the glimmer of ideas that grew into innovations!
Cassandra Franklin-Barbajosa
Executive Editor
:: In This Month's Issue ::
On the Cover
Edgy Recreation
Sports warriors of all ages are causing a stir with innovative vehicles and daring devices
By Jennifer Whalen
Got Game? Community Makeover
OTHER FEATURES
Why should kids have all the fun? Grown-ups are getting in the game and taking to sports fields.
By Rachel Roberts
A California community center's renovation gives a fresh identity to teh town it serves.
By Michael Pinto
Birders' Paradise
Bird-watchers are flocking to Texas' wildlife-rich Lower Rio Grande Vally.
By Cate Lineberry
Go Outside and Play!
A new outdoor adventure program gives kids the tools they need to connect with nature.
By Carrie Stolar
COLUMNS
Perspectives: the Best Ambassadors
You can always count on citizens to tell it like it is.
By Barbara Tulipane
Advocacy Update: Score One for Parks
NRPA counts one pig policy win toward funding parks.
By Stacey Pine
Research Update: Out With Apprehension
People with mental illness are just like everyone else.
By Amy Grandon, M.S., CTRS and Jan Hodges, Ph. D., CTRS
DEPARTMENTS
Parks & Recreation
2009 BUYER'S GUIDE
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