News - Play Kettering

Help your teen become a Better Babysitter!

Posted on January 16, 2020

Got a teen or tween at home? Chances are they’re starting to get interested in venturing into the work world. Babysitting is a top choice for first work experience and is a great way for kids to develop a greater sense of responsibility. Better Babysitters educates future sitters ages 10 – 16 about the qualities...

Kidz Home Alone offers peace of mind

Posted on January 2, 2020

Leaving your kids home alone can be a scary transition for everyone involved. Maybe your kids won’t have to foil a pair of wily burglars or worry about getting lost in New York, but there’s still plenty that could go wrong. Kidz Home Alone educates children ages 10 – 13 about the responsibilities of staying...

Fitness Patron Spotlight: Phillip Erskine

Posted on January 1, 2020

We're starting off 2020 by bringing back our fitness patron spotlights! Today, we're featuring Phillip Erskine, who works out at the Kettering Recreation Complex and trains with Ben. Read on to find out how he lost 130 pounds! "I started my weight loss journey in April of 2018. After I decided that I wanted to...

Make the 2020s your healthiest decade yet

Posted on December 27, 2019

If you’ve made fitness your New Year’s resolution for 2020, you’re not alone. Among people making resolutions, around two-thirds say their goal is to make being active a priority. We all know how popular fitness is in January, right? And we also know how tough it is to stick with it – about 20 percent...

Your workout can help manage holiday stress

Posted on December 19, 2019

Does the holiday hustle have you feeling overwhelmed? Most adults in the U.S. report feeling stressed, and the many activities and expectations surrounding the holidays can increase those stress levels. Need help managing your holiday stress? Try a workout! Why? The endorphin rush. Working out gives the brain a dose of endorphins. These hormones are...

Giving Tree gifts are due December 2!

Posted on November 25, 2019

Every holiday season, the Kettering Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department organizes the Giving Tree program to assist Kettering children in need. Kettering school guidance counselors have parents complete a form for each child listing their gender, age, clothing needs and gift ideas. A unique tag is created for each child and is distributed to...

Quiz: The power of playing nice

Posted on November 12, 2019

Pop quiz time! Our youth sports programs are designed to teach kids not only how to play the game, but how to play it fairly. Learning cooperation and practicing good sportsmanship are some of the biggest benefits of being on a youth sports team. The behavior parents model from the sidelines is just as important...

Light up the holidays

Posted on October 30, 2019

Santa has his elves; we have our tireless Parks Division. Every holiday season, crews tackle the huge task of making Lincoln Park into Kettering’s shining holiday showplace. Naturally, this is a tough and time-consuming job. If you struggle to hang a strand of icicle lights on your porch, just imagine decorating an entire city park!...

Adult basketball leagues keep competition friendly and fun

Posted on October 28, 2019

We talk a lot about the benefits of team sports for kids, but staying active and participating in a leisure activity with friends is just as important for adults. According to research by the Harvard University School of Public Health, adult sports leagues reduce the risk of a heart disease, high blood pressure, certain cancers...

In search of the perfect tree

Posted on October 28, 2019

One of our favorite holiday sights in Kettering is the beautiful Mayor’s Tree in Lincoln Park Civic Commons. The tree’s crowning moment is the Kettering Mayor’s Tree Lighting, and afterward, it shines all season long. So, where does this holiday giant come from? The tree is harvested as part of a service provided by the...

Rosewood Gallery offers unique value to the region

Posted on October 23, 2019

Have you ever visited Rosewood Gallery? We hope so! It's one of the region's artistic gems, offering three juried exhibitions and five pairs of solo exhibitions per year, representing a mix of local and national artists. We asked Gallery Coordinator Paula Kraus to explain what makes Rosewood Gallery unique and what goes into planning each...

Apply to join the 2020 Kettering Arts Council!

Posted on October 17, 2019

Want to make a positive impact on cultural arts programs in your community? The Kettering Arts Council needs your voice! This volunteer group of residents is focused on access to the arts for all ages, encouraging a passion for the arts and promoting art appreciation and education. This committee not only promotes and enhances appreciation of...

Management plan offers new approach to parks upkeep

Posted on September 25, 2019

With 21 parks and numerous facilities, medians and other green spaces, keeping Kettering beautiful is a big job. Parks leadership has developed a parks maintenance management plan to bring a more nuanced approach to upkeep. “We wanted to provide parks staff with an idea of the expectations of the management team and to bring consistency...

Fitness Patron Spotlight: Mark Eggenschwiller

Posted on September 6, 2019

Mark Eggenschwiller's fitness goal was a tall order - literally! He recently completed a summit climb of Mt. Elbert, the tallest peak in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Its elevation is approximately 14, 439 feet! With unpredictable weather and thin air at the top, this mountain presents a serious challenge to climbers. "Elbert was the greatest...

Staff Spotlight: Meet Drew Corbett

Posted on August 21, 2019

Meet Drew Corbett, who recently joined our PlayKettering team as Recreation Manager! Learn why he chose to spend his career in recreation and what he enjoys doing off the clock, too. What made you choose parks and recreation as a career field? Growing up in a small town in northeast Ohio, I spent a lot...

The Insider’s Guide to Art on the Commons

Posted on August 5, 2019

Rosewood Arts Centre’s premier annual event, Art on the Commons, is almost here! The festival features over 101 artists in a variety of media, and all artists were hand-selected by our 2019 festival jury. There’s so much to see and do at the festival, affectionately known by us insiders as AOTC, we put together a handy...

Choose Your Own Art on the Commons Adventure!

Posted on August 1, 2019

You’re alone in your living room in front of a computer. You see something online about an arts festival at Lincoln Park Civic Commons on Sunday, August 11 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s time to make a decision. A: Of course I want to go! That sounds amazing! B: Art is totally not...

Fill your parks prescription for a healthier life

Posted on August 1, 2019

Want proof that parks and recreation promote wellness? Let’s talk about parks prescriptions, an increasingly common therapy that doctors are using in the U.S. and abroad. Several recent studies have shown direct benefits to overall health just from spending some extra time outdoors. According to research published by the International Journal of Environmental Health and...

Community members volunteer at Delco

Posted on July 22, 2019

Recently, two young women, both Kettering residents, were spotted doing a good deed at Delco Park. Samantha Sowards and Anna Spragg took it upon themselves to pick up litter in the park earlier this month to help our staff prepare for Kettering’s annual Go 4th Independence Day celebration. “This is the first time we’ve done...

Behind the Fire Lines at Go 4th!

Posted on July 3, 2019

Our biggest party of the year wouldn’t be complete without the main event – Kettering’s amazing fireworks show! Every year, Kettering works with Rozzi Famous Fireworks to bring the party to the skies above Delco Park. This year promises to be the best yet – we even designed the playlist with your help! As you...

Mayor Patterson invites you to Go 4th!

Posted on July 1, 2019

Everyone in town is getting ready for the big party this week! We caught up with Kettering’s Mayor Don Patterson for a quick chat about his Fourth of July favorites. What do you enjoy most about Go 4th? I like the way it brings the community together in celebration and represents the City of Kettering....

5 Ways to Stay Safe on the 4th

Posted on June 18, 2019

The Fourth of July is all about celebration, whether you’re enjoying a backyard barbecue or partying at Kettering’s Go 4th. No matter how you choose to wish America a happy 243rd birthday, no one wants an accident or injury putting a damper on the fun. We’ve got you covered – read on for our top...

Party with Stranger at Go 4th!

Posted on June 18, 2019

We love the 80s! And so does our headliner for this year’s Go 4th, Stranger! Stranger, ‘the premier 80s band for Southwest Ohio and beyond’ is bringing the fun to Delco Park. Perms and mullets are optional, but dancing is a must! We chatted with lead vocalist, Jeff Stevens, to learn all about Stranger and...

Sampler Camp offers the best of four worlds

Posted on June 14, 2019

With four different types of summer camps offered, it can be a tough choice for campers to decide just what kind of summer fun they want to enjoy. Our Recreation camps are traditional camps focused on play – field trips, swimming, games and specialty themes; Camp Habitat focuses on hands-on science and nature experiences; Sports...

Behind the scenes with Sherlock Gnomes

Posted on June 14, 2019

We’re counting down to June’s Movie Under the Stars – everyone’s looking forward to games, an evening in beautiful Delco Park, and of course, Sherlock Gnomes on the big screen. We caught up with Sherlock on the set of his latest gnomantic comedy to chat about his career and his little-known connection to Kettering. PlayKettering: ...

Shadowlife is ready to rock Go 4th!

Posted on June 13, 2019

Dayton-based band Shadowlife prides itself on its diverse musical offerings – the band covers a wide range of decades and genres. We’re so excited to have them getting the party started at Go 4th this year! We caught up with Shadowlife bassist and vocalist, Larry Oeffner, to learn all about what the band has planned...

The votes are in!

Posted on June 10, 2019

For the first time ever, our Facebook followers helped out with building the soundtrack for the Go 4th fireworks! Followers chose between four songs in three different categories - the top two in each category made it into the playlist. The winners are: Old School Category Eye of the Tiger - Survivor Fun Fun Fun...

Sports Fun for every kid

Posted on June 4, 2019

Does your child love games and sports so much, they can’t pick just one? Our Sports Fun Camps mix it up and keep things interesting with fun, fast-paced play. Campers experience everything from basketball to kickball to Capture the Flag. New this year are two age levels for these camps – Junior Sports Fun Camp...

Ready, set, summer!

Posted on May 20, 2019

Getting Adventure Reef Water Park back in action after a long winter is no easy task. From maintenance to cleaning to staffing to stocking, it takes staff from three areas to get Kettering’s favorite swim spot summer ready. Here’s a quick rundown on what it takes to prep the water park for hours of summer...

Hand Built Pottery offers endless ways to create

Posted on May 16, 2019

Hand-built pottery is created without the use of a potter’s wheel. Instructor Cynthia Bornhorst-Winslow has taught several ceramics classes at Rosewood, including Hand Built Pottery. A Rosewood instructor since 2017, she is also a former Sinclair Community College arts faculty member. We caught up with her to find out all about hand building and what...

5 Tips for Maintaining your Wellness Goals

Posted on May 13, 2019

Have you enjoyed success in reaching your wellness goals? Did you follow through on your New Year’s resolutions? Congratulations! It’s not easy to stick with a wellness journey, so give yourself some love. You may have reached your goal, but your journey isn’t over. Falling back into old habits means undoing all your hard work...

Fitness Patron Spotlight: Jerry Wells

Posted on April 30, 2019

Jerry Wells has been a familiar face at both the Kettering Recreation Complex and the Kettering Fitness and Wellness Center for over 10 years. While you may find him more at the KRC, working out five days a week makes him want a little variety, so you’ll occasionally spot him on the other side of...

Tap into creative fun at Rosewood

Posted on April 23, 2019

If you’re at Rosewood Arts Centre on a Wednesday morning, you’ll hear the sound of tapping feet from the dance studio. Led by Sammie Sue Edmondson, this enthusiastic group of dancers taps to everything from ‘Uptown Funk’ to ‘Singing in the Rain.’ The atmosphere is always friendly with a mix of longtime and new students....

Summer Camps Update: Health History Forms

Posted on April 3, 2019

Spring is finally here, and summer camp will be here before you know it! We can't wait to see your family at camp this summer and are excited to announce a change to the way we collect health history information. If you've registered your child for one of our summer camps, watch your inbox for...

Parks Update: Improvements coming to Delco Park

Posted on March 13, 2019

Delco Park is currently undergoing a variety of updates to its landscaping, accessibility and park entrances. If you see crews working at Delco in the coming weeks, here’s what they’ll be up to: Updating landscape and signage – The current landscape was installed in 1999, so it’s due for a fresh look and a modern...

The Art of Relaxation

Posted on January 23, 2019

On Fridays, Rosewood Gallery offers a lunch break that’ll refresh and recharge your mind and body after a long week at work. From 12 – 1 p.m., instructor, Robyn Moore, leads participants through Yoga in the Gallery. This open-level class is a relaxing, unique way of enjoying both the practice of yoga and beautiful artwork....

Art Start Preschool Story Time Inspires

Posted on January 15, 2019

During Art Start Preschool Story Time, parents and educators gather to explore a theme through both art and literature. For January’s lesson on emotions, Melissa from Dayton Metro Libraries took a group of kids ages 3 to 6 through four books that explored feelings in a fun, accessible way. Games and chats between books kept...

Staff Spotlight: Meet Shauna Lewallen

Posted on January 10, 2019

Meet Shauna Lewallen, Kettering’s brand-new Recreation Superintendent! Learn what she loves most about working in recreation and what she enjoys doing off the clock, too. What made you choose parks and recreation as a career field? I was a park kid growing up. Some of my happiest childhood memories were made on the pee wee...

Fitness Spotlight: Larry Fox

Posted on December 31, 2018

For today's 12 Days of Fitness feature, meet personal trainer Larry Fox! Learn about his approach to fitness and wellness and what he enjoys most about helping patrons reach their goals. "My name is Larry Fox, and I decided to become a Personal Trainer about 10 years ago. I have been active most of my...

Fitness Spotlight: Group Exercise Instructor JJ Kunkle

Posted on December 28, 2018

The 12 Days of Fitness continues! You've met two of our patrons - now meet one of our instructors. JJ Kunkle teaches group exercise classes at the Kettering Recreation Complex. Read what she has to say about finding the right exercise program for you, overcoming obstacles and how fitness helped her recover from an injury....

Fitness Patron Spotlight: Quinn Matthews

Posted on December 27, 2018

On the second day of wellness, PlayKettering gave to me...another inspiring fitness story! Meet Quinn Matthews, who worked with personal trainer Larry Fox at the Kettering Recreation Complex to lose over 30 pounds and train for a 5K. Here's what Quinn had to say about his fitness journey: "At 50 years old, I realized it...

Fitness Patron Spotlight: Amanda

Posted on December 26, 2018

It's the 12 Days of Fitness! Join us each day for wellness inspiration and tips for living a healthier life. First up is Amanda, who works out at the Kettering Recreation Complex. Learn how our instructors helped her achieve her fitness goals and prepare for a Spartan race! "My name is Amanda, and I started...

Enjoy a winter nature walk

Posted on December 17, 2018

Our parks are bustling in the spring, summer and fall, but don’t count winter out! Sure, it might be hard to warm (!) to the idea of an outdoor jaunt in 30-degree temps, but the wellness benefits of spending time outside know no season. Bundle up and head to one of Kettering’s beautiful nature trails...

A Conversation with Artist Connie Campbell

Posted on December 6, 2018

One of two exhibitions currently on view in Rosewood Gallery is Archetypes, a series of sculptures by the artist Connie R. Campbell. Campbell is also the former Cultural Arts Superintendent for the City of Kettering - she was the very first to develop programming for Rosewood Arts Centre, among her many other tasks during her...

PRCA programs are for everyone!

Posted on November 8, 2018

The Kettering Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department strives to provide accessible, inclusive programs and facilities to anyone who would like to take part in what we have to offer. In order to give everyone the best experience possible, PRCA staff turns to the City of Kettering’s Compliance and Inclusion Manager, Anna Breidenbach, who works...

Updated Main Pool/Spa Schedule

Posted on October 26, 2018

We are in the home stretch and finishing the final phases of the renovations in the main pool area and locker rooms. To complete the finishing touches, the main pool and spa will be closed on Monday, October 29 and Tuesday, October 30 from 5:30 a.m. - 3:45 p.m. You can find details about the modified schedule...

Learn to Curl with us!

Posted on October 18, 2018

Curling has arrived at the Kettering Ice Arena! Time to meet our amazing Learn to Curl coaches, Patrick Connolly and Paul Robinson, who have both been Curl Troy members for three years. They talked with us about why they love the sport of curling and what you'll learn from them in our curling clinics. How...

Giving Tree helps Kettering families in need

Posted on October 15, 2018

Have you seen the Giving Trees in our facilities? Curious about how the program works and whom it helps? We talked to Program and Youth Development Supervisor, Addie Weaver, who coordinates the program. Read on to learn more and hurry out to pick up a tag! Gifts are due by December 3. For people who...

Live Your Best Creative Life

Posted on September 26, 2018

The Creative Life Symposium, scheduled for October 26 and 27, is a brand-new event sponsored by Rosewood Arts Centre in collaboration with the Dayton Society of Artists and the Dayton Visual Arts Center. Attendees will come away with practical ideas for “how to create a healthy community through creative practice or how to succeed with an...

Fishing in Kettering Parks

Posted on September 18, 2018

You can fish for free without a fishing license at the ponds at Delco Park, Lincoln Park, Pondview Park, and the Kettering Recreation Complex. You can find a list of park amenities and a map to these parks here. Please throw all fish back into the water, and please do not cast nets. Enjoy!

Apply to join the 2019 Program Advisory Committee!

Posted on September 13, 2018

Want to make a positive impact on parks, recreation and cultural arts programs in your community? The 2019 Kettering Program Advisory Committee needs your voice! This volunteer group of residents is focused on providing feedback and evaluation for programs and services that the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department provides on a yearly basis. This committee...

Comics Are No Joke

Posted on September 10, 2018

Think books with pictures are for little kids? Or that comic books are junk food for the brain? Think again! According to several studies, comic books are a great solution for encouraging reluctant readers. And these reluctant readers aren’t just students who are first learning to read – teenagers and adults who aren’t otherwise inclined...

11 ways to celebrate Halloween in Kettering

Posted on September 3, 2018

October is here – we know it, if the weather doesn’t! Whether you look forward to it all year or think it’s just a bunch of hocus pocus, one thing’s for sure: fall fun in Kettering is easy to find. Read on to discover the thrills and chills we’ve got in store for all ages....

Don’t ‘fall’ into unhealthy habits: 10 tips for healthy autumn eating

Posted on August 22, 2018

The fresh produce of summer makes it easier (aside from the lure of ice cream) to maintain a healthy diet. Plus, during the warmer months, our bodies naturally want lighter foods. When the weather turns cool, your body’s natural instinct is to store fat. And delicious stuff, like apple cider, pumpkin spice lattes, pies and...

Updates to Kettering Government Center Landscaping

Posted on August 9, 2018

If you’ve been by the Kettering Government Center this summer, you probably noticed some changes in the works. The landscaping on this campus is being redesigned. In fact, this project “is part of a much larger project that will encompass a redesigned landscape throughout the Government Center campus, Civic Commons and Lincoln Park in future...

Make Fitness Fun: 20 Outdoor Workouts

Posted on August 8, 2018

Looking to shake up your fitness routine? Check out our list of 20 outdoor workouts to burn calories and enjoy some PlayKettering-style fun! Get some friends together for a softball or baseball game. Find out which parks offer ball fields. Bundle the little ones up for a stroller walk Challenge a friend to a race...

Five Ways to Enjoy Art on the Commons

Posted on August 6, 2018

Rosewood Arts Centre’s premier annual event, Art on the Commons, is almost here! We're celebrating a major milestone this time around -this fine arts and crafts festival has been going strong for 30 years! The festival features over 100 artists in a variety of media. All the artwork is juried to make sure the quality...

Environmental Education in Kettering: Discover the History!

Posted on July 30, 2018

Kettering offers a vibrant and robust environmental education program. The Habitat Environmental Center and the Land Lab curriculum have helped to instill knowledge and passion for environmental stewardship in thousands of Kettering schoolchildren and community members. But did you know that only sixteen years ago, Kettering didn’t offer any environmental education programming at all? In...

Summer Safety on the Playground

Posted on July 12, 2018

If you have kids at home, chances are you spend lots of quality time at the playground during the summertime. And why not? Kettering’s playgrounds are close to home, fun and FREE! Our playgrounds are designed with safety in mind, but there are still some steps visitors should take to ensure that everyone has an...

Discover Parks: Kettering’s Hidden Gems

Posted on July 9, 2018

Even though there are 21 fabulous parks in Kettering, chances are you have your favorites and you’ve gotten in a routine of visiting those the most. According to a recent survey, Kettering’s Kantner Park (1512 Brownleigh Rd.), Glaser Park (1851 Doris Dr.) and Oak Park (2055 Malcom Ave.) are hungry for visitors. They might be...

Meet Jim Bucher, our 2018 Go 4th! emcee

Posted on June 28, 2018

Kettering’s Go 4th! is almost here! We caught up with this year’s emcee, media guru Jim Bucher or “Buch” as he’s known around the Miami Valley. We’re excited to have him return to the Go 4th! stage this year. Read on to find out why Buch thinks Go 4th! is a great community event. You’ve...

Kettering’s Go 4th! to feature Phil Dirt & The Dozers

Posted on June 25, 2018

Enjoy the musical stylings of Phil Dirt & The Dozers at Go 4th! this year. This fun, beloved crew of entertainers is bringing lots of vintage fun to Delco Park this Independence Day! Read more about the band in their own words: “Come travel back to a time when life was more simple, the world...

Behind the scenes of Kettering’s Go 4th!

Posted on June 22, 2018

5, 4, 3, 2, 1! Have you ever wondered what goes into planning a pyrotechnic show? Spoiler alert- it’s quite the process! Kettering’s Go 4th! stands out among the area’s fireworks displays – we have several elements you’re not going to find anywhere else. Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks in Loveland, Ohio has been in charge of...

Go 4th – Party Like It’s 1776!

Posted on June 20, 2018

Want to have your best Fourth of July ever? Check out our top tips for enjoying Kettering’s spectacular Go 4th! celebration and join us on Wednesday, July 4 from 6 – 10pm at Delco Park. Tip #1 Get comfortable for an evening of patriotic fun. Bring chairs, blankets, snacks, refreshments and your camera. Please leave...

Go 4th is a no drone zone

Posted on June 16, 2018

If you’re headed off to a fun event like Go 4th, you might be tempted to bring along your drone to capture some footage. Don’t do it – drones are prohibited from this event due to serious safety concerns. We checked in with Fire Marshal Bill Ford of the Kettering Fire Department to learn exactly...

Updates coming to the Kettering Fitness and Wellness Center

Posted on June 12, 2018

Exciting news for those who work out at the Kettering Fitness and Wellness Center - improvements are coming to the facility very soon! The facility will be closed Friday - Sunday, June 15, 16 and 17 for these updates. What's on the agenda? "The Kettering Fitness and Wellness Center and indoor walking track will be closed on...

Free Wednesdays at Adventure Reef Water Park!

Posted on June 11, 2018

Exciting news! Free admission to Adventure Reef Water Park on select Wednesday evenings is available this summer to children in grades K – 12 who attend Kettering City Schools, Kettering Alter High School, Kettering Montessori School, Ascension School, St. Albert School, St. Charles School, Dayton Regional Stem School and Kettering resident children participating in Home...

Meet Water Workout Instructor, Jodi Quinn!

Posted on May 17, 2018

Today, we continue our National Water Safety Month series introducing a few of the members of our aquatics staff. Longtime water workout instructor Jodi Quinn talked with us about the benefits of working out in the water and how you can get the best results from this type of workout. How long have you been...

Meet chalk artist, Tiffany Kelly!

Posted on May 15, 2018

Have you heard about our Chalk It Up To Play contest? Artist Tiffany Kelly of Chalk N’ Awe will create a new piece of chalk art in a different Kettering park each week. View the official Chalk It Up To Play page for details on how to enter and win a $10 Orange Leaf gift...

Polen Profiles: Meet Lisa

Posted on May 14, 2018

Polen Farm is a beautiful and historic nineteenth century farmhouse and barn. The 15-acre complex is a beautiful spot for weddings, receptions, meetings, luncheons, small conferences, retreats, reunions and other social affairs. Polen generally has a busy schedule, and it takes a dedicated staff to make all these events run smoothly. We talked with event...

Meet Swimming Instructor Ruth Kohstall

Posted on May 8, 2018

May is National Water Safety Month! One of the most valuable water safety tools a person can have is the ability to swim. This month, we’re featuring a few of our amazing aquatics staff. Learn what inspires them to help people enjoy the water safely. First up, meet Ruth Kohstall, who first learned to swim...

Meet ‘A Glide Through Time’ solo skater, Julia!

Posted on April 16, 2018

The Kettering Ice Arena is holding their spring ice show, A Glide Through Time, on May 4 and 5. This big show is full of local talent, as well as amazing costumes and scenery. A panel of judges selected four skaters to perform solos in the show – today, we finish our series introducing these skaters. Next...

Meet ‘A Glide Through Time’ solo skater, Taylor!

Posted on April 3, 2018

Meet ‘A Glide Through Time’ solo skater, Sarah!

Posted on March 27, 2018

The Kettering Ice Arena is holding their spring ice show, A Glide Through Time, on May 4 and 5. This big show is full of local talent, as well as amazing costumes, props and scenery. A panel of judges selected four skaters to perform solos in the show – today, we continue our series introducing these...

The benefits of art making for kids

Posted on March 20, 2018

We all know that when kids make art, it promotes creativity. We also know that creativity is extremely important for a child’s development. But artmaking at a young age has many more benefits to kids' physical, emotional and mental well being. Read on to find out more. Motor skill development Scribbling with markers and crayons...

Arts Council member Meghan Dillon discusses the arts in Kettering

Posted on March 12, 2018

Meghan Dillon teaches art at Kettering Fairmont High School. She has been a member of the Kettering Arts Council since 2013 and serves on the Art in Public Places Committee as well. In honor of Youth Art Month, we asked her to give us her perspective on the arts in Kettering and the value of...

CitySites public art collection receives assessment

Posted on February 28, 2018

A recent assessment of all the works in Kettering’s CitySites public art collection found that overall, the artwork is in good condition. Robert Lodge, the owner of McKay Lodge Conservation Laboratory in Oberlin, Ohio assessed the collection in the fall of 2017. McKay Lodge works with public art collections throughout the country, including the US...

Meet ‘A Glide Through Time’ solo skater, Lily!

Posted on February 27, 2018

The Kettering Ice Arena is holding an ice show on May 4 and 5 called A Glide Through Time. This is a big show, full of local talent, as well as amazing costumes, props and scenery. A panel of judges selected four skaters to perform solos in the show – we’ll be introducing each skater...

Fitness Inspiration: Meg Holmes

Posted on February 26, 2018

Was improving your fitness level a resolution back in January? It can be difficult to maintain the lifestyle change that a new fitness program brings. We’re here with some motivation, thanks to Kettering Recreation Complex patron Meg Holmes, who recently shared her fitness story with us. Meg, 60, retired in the spring of 2017. “I...

Meet the Ice Force Synchronized Skating Team!

Posted on February 20, 2018

Olympics month continues! The 2018 Winter Games kicked off on February 9 in Pyeongchang, South Korea with plenty of exciting competition still to come. Today, we’re continuing our series on the talented figure skaters and hockey players who call the Kettering Ice Arena home. We talked to Christy Lemoine, a coach of Ice Force Synchronized...

A Conversation with Artist Andrea Benedict-Starkey

Posted on February 13, 2018

Dayton-based artist Andrea Benedict-Starkey will be at Rosewood Arts Centre on March 3 and 4 to teach a master class in the Japanese woodblock printmaking technique, Moku Hanga. We caught up with her to learn more about the art of Moku Hanga, what inspires her, and what you can expect to learn during the workshop....

Meet the South Dayton Figure Skating Club!

Posted on February 8, 2018

For many years, the South Dayton Figure Skating Club has practiced at the Kettering Ice Arena. This organization is “the next step for serious skaters who have completed the City of Kettering's USFS Basic Skills program and wish to expand their skills in the various disciplines of figure skating.” The SDFSC offers full membership privileges in...

Meet the Dayton Fangs!

Posted on January 31, 2018

It’s officially Olympics month! The 2018 Winter Games kick off on February 9 in Pyeongchang, South Korea. Olympic dreams and the joy of winter sports aren’t reserved for the elite levels – they start in community recreation facilities like the Kettering Ice Arena. All February long, we’re highlighting some of the dynamic teams and individuals...

Fitness Inspiration: Carly Kimmins

Posted on January 30, 2018

Need a little encouragement to keep on with those New Year’s fitness goals? We’re closing out resolution month with a quick spotlight on Carly Kimmins, who works out at the Kettering Fitness and Wellness Center. “Even though I never stepped foot in a gym until after I turned 40, I am so glad I finally...

Fitness class designed for people with Parkinson’s

Posted on January 25, 2018

The Parkinson’s Circuit Class, held twice weekly at the Kettering Recreation Complex, is a specialized program tailored to individuals living with Parkinson’s. Studies by the National Parkinson’s Foundation indicate that those living with Parkinson’s can benefit from an exercise program that includes stretching, aerobic exercise and resistance training. Through a carefully developed exercise routine, individuals...

Strollers in Motion

Posted on January 22, 2018

A new fitness class has rolled into Kettering – Strollers in Motion, a chance for caregivers and little ones to work out together! We dropped by the class recently to check it out. While their moms enjoyed a full-body workout, the littles rode in style. Four moms with strollers jogged in laps, did squats and...

Five ways to get back to healthy eating

Posted on December 29, 2017

After a month or more of rich treats, it can be hard to switch gears, even if you’ve gotten tired of candy and cookies. We put together a few suggestions for easing the transition from holiday indulgence to resolution fit. Don’t go overboard. Suddenly cutting out sugary foods and excess carbs can cause the body...

Meet the Kettering Parks Advisory Board: Shane Sullivan

Posted on December 14, 2017

We continue our series introducing the members of the Kettering Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Advisory Board with member Shane Sullivan! How long have you been a member of the Parks board, and what inspired you to become involved? I have been on the PRCA board for two years. I live and work in Kettering,...

Meet the Kettering Parks Advisory Board: Laura Arber

Posted on December 7, 2017

Our series introducing the members of the Kettering Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Advisory Board continues with Vice Chair, Laura Arber! How long have you served on the Kettering Parks board? What inspired you to get involved? This is my fourth year. I went through the Kettering Leadership Academy and learned about all the opportunities...

PRCA Profiles: Claire Hinde, Rosewood Arts Centre

Posted on December 5, 2017

What led you to a career in cultural arts? Can you tell us about your background? A winding life, haha! My background is primarily in dance performance and choreography. I was fortunate to be able to perform professionally for about six years. I performed regionally, in New York City, and around the world, including a...

Meet the Kettering Parks Advisory Board: Carrie Kihn

Posted on November 29, 2017

We're continuing our series highlighting the Kettering Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Advisory Board. Today, meet Board Chair, Carrie Kihn! How long have you served on the Kettering Parks board? Six years Why do you feel parks, recreation and cultural arts important to Kettering? The parks and cultural arts are important because they give people...

Meet the Kettering Parks Advisory Board: Jamie Jarosik

Posted on November 21, 2017

The Kettering Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Advisory Board was created to promote a comprehensive parks, recreation and cultural arts program for the citizens of Kettering. The advisory board also fosters working relationships with schools, community and civic organizations and provides the general public with information and education with regards to parks, recreation and cultural...

PRCA Profiles: Kerri Miles, Environmental Education Supervisor

Posted on November 15, 2017

We're continuing our series of profiles on our talented Kettering PRCA team members! Learn what inspired them to choose careers in parks and recreation and what they love about working with the community. Next up: Environmental Education Supervisor, Kerri Miles What led you to a career in environmental education? I’ve always loved the outdoors. My...

Fall lawn care tips from Parks Maintenance

Posted on November 8, 2017

Brandon Douglas from Parks maintenance has some helpful tips on how to care for your lawn this fall, so it’s beautiful when spring rolls around. Here are his suggestions: Fall is a great time to put down the last application of fertilizer on lawns to help promote root growth throughout the winter and also giving...

Veterans and families – enjoy FREE activities on Veterans Day!

Posted on November 7, 2017

Saturday, November 11 is Veterans Day! To thank local veterans for their service to our country, we’re offering active and retired members of the military and their families free admission to select activities and facilities on Veterans Day. Proper Military ID is required to participate. Check out the full list below: Aquatics Lap...

Rosewood to test drive extended facility hours for 2018

Posted on November 1, 2017

Want to create art or take a class on the weekends, but don’t have time? Good news – Rosewood Arts Centre is piloting new extended hours, starting January 2, 2018. Cultural Arts Division Manager, Shayna McConville, gave us the details. What are Rosewood’s hours under the new schedule? Rosewood's hours will be Monday through Thursday,...

PRCA Profile: Sports Supervisor, Jake Hensel

Posted on October 26, 2017

We're excited to be launching a new series of profiles on our talented Kettering PRCA team members. Learn what inspired them to choose careers in parks and recreation and what they love about working with the community. First up: Sports Supervisor, Jacob Hensel What led you to a career in community sports? I’ve always had...

PRCA Team Spotlight: Andrew Dailey, Rosewood Arts Centre

Posted on October 18, 2017

Kettering's Cultural Arts Program Supervisor, Andy Dailey, has a solo exhibition, Drawn Through, currently on view at Rosewood Gallery. Here, he talks inspiration, artistic practice, and balancing life and artmaking. How has working at Rosewood inspired your work as an artist? I think working at Rosewood has inspired my work as an artist in a number...

Get Moving!

Posted on October 16, 2017

From kids to seniors, everyone needs to incorporate physical activity into their life each day. If you’re worried you don’t have time to meet the CDC’s guidelines, check out these quick and easy ways to get moving each day. Walk or bike instead of driving. If you must drive, park at the end of the...

Five Ways for Seniors to Stay Active in Kettering

Posted on October 10, 2017

From dance to swimming to traditional exercise, Kettering is full of ways for senior adults to have fun and stay healthy! Check out this selection of indoor activities to keep your exercise plan going during the chillier weather. 1. Senior Drop-In Gym Offered weekday mornings to adults ages 55+, this is the perfect opportunity to...

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