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Step Up to Health - It Starts in Parks!
We have all heard the news. Sedentary lifestyles and poor nutrition have created an unprecedented health crisis. The number of overweight and obese people is higher than ever, while fewer people are physically active.
As your public parks and recreation provider, we believe that we should take a leadership role in the health of the Merriam community. We are joining other North American communities in promoting active living and healthy lifestyles. In an active living environment, people integrate physical activities into all aspects of their daily lives, such as walking/biking for transportation, playing in the park, doing chores around the home, and taking the stairs instead of the elevator at work.
We are committed to providing facilities, equipment, programs and events that promote an active living environment. Here are just a few of our 2007 successes:
- In 2007 we constructed an additional 1.1 miles of paved walking trails. Our plan is to create more walking paths, connecting more neighborhoods, as funding becomes available in the future.
- We created a new free walking program for Sr. Citizens called “Poker Walk” that encourages exercise in a fun environment. So far we have had 152 walkers who have accumulated 94 miles.
- We supported the Merriam Dolphins Swim and Dive Team and the over 100 youth that splashed their way through the summer while building swiming skills and strengthening their muscles.
We encourage you to begin your own walk toward active living. On this site we have provided you with a list of resources that will help you get active (just don’t sit too long behind the computer.)
Susan Hayden
Director of Parks & Recreation
Merriam Parks & Recreation Department
5701 Merriam Drive
Merriam, KS 66203
913-322-5550
FAX: 913-677-1409
Parks & Recreation Staff
Susan Hayden, Director of Parks & Recreation
Tim Murphy, Asst. Director of Parks & Recreation
Dave Smothers, Recreation Supervisor
Mary Horsley, Administrative Assistant
Hours of Operation
Monday-Thursday: 8:00am-9:00pm
Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Saturday: 8:00am-4:00pm
Sunday: 1:00pm-5:00pm
Cancellations & Delays
In the event of inclement weather, the Parks & Recreation Department will post notice of cancellation here. You can also call the cancellation line at (913) 322-5591.
For questions and/or comments on this site e-mail Susan Hayden. |
