News - Play Kettering

Tips for an amazing time at Go 4th!

Posted on June 28, 2022

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 July 4 from 6 – 10 p.m. at Delco Park. Tip #1 Get comfortable for an evening of patriotic fun. Bring chairs, blankets, snacks, refreshments and your camera. Please leave...

Backyard Water Safety Series: Bobbing and Breath Control

Posted on June 22, 2022

Warning: Breath holding games are extremely dangerous and can lead to shallow water blackout and drowning. Breathing in and out quickly (hyperventilating) before submerging can greatly increase this risk. Teach your children the importance of avoiding breath holding games! The ability to hold your breath for short periods of time is an important safety skill...

5 Ways to Stay Safe on the 4th

Posted on June 21, 2022

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 birthday, no one wants an accident or injury putting a damper on the fun. We’ve got you covered – read on for our top tips...

Backyard Water Safety Series: Going Underwater

Posted on June 15, 2022

Safety Note: Do not let the learning swimmer hyperventilate or have breath-holding contests. Limit learners to a single inhalation whenever you ask them to hold their breath or submerge. All submersions must be voluntary on the part of the learning swimmer. Crying, sputtering, coughing, choking, or vomiting are signs that a learning swimmer is not...

Go 4th is a no drone zone

Posted on June 14, 2022

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. Retired Kettering Fire Marshal Bill Ford explained exactly what risks drones pose at events like Go...

Backyard Water Safety Series: Teaching Children to Float

Posted on June 8, 2022

Children, especially young children, frequently do not like to be on their back in the water. There are many reasons behind this, and it is important to understand that it may take time and patience to overcome any anxiety or discomfort. Allow them to practice for as long as they feel comfortable. If they are...

Go 4th! Frequently Asked Questions

Posted on June 7, 2022

When and where July 4 from 6:00 - 10:00 p.m. at Delco Park 1700 Delco Park Dr., Kettering, OH 45429 Parking When you host the biggest party of the year, a lot of people show up! Before you head out to Delco Park, plan your route and where you will park. Even better - walk or...

Backyard Water Safety Series: Floating Can Save a Life

Posted on June 1, 2022

Floating allows you to stay near the surface of the water where you can rest and get a breath while waiting for help to arrive in the event of an emergency. Not everyone floats easily, and it sometimes takes both physical and mental adjustment to keep your body relaxed. To float on your back: •...

How learning to fish benefits kids

Posted on May 31, 2022

It’s hard to teach kids patience in a world driven by screens, schedules and instant gratification. One surprisingly beneficial way to teach the beauty of slowing down is by going fishing. Did you know that you can fish for free without a license at Pondview Park, Lincoln Park, Delco Park and the Kettering Recreation Complex?...

Backyard Water Safety Series: Entering and exiting safely

Posted on May 25, 2022

The most basic of the essential water safety skills is simply entering and exiting the water. It is important to practice getting into and out of the water with young children. New swimmers need to learn how to adjust to the water as well as safe techniques for getting into and out of the water....

Adventure Reef Water Park open daily beginning May 28!

Posted on May 19, 2022

Slide, splash and cool off every day this summer at Adventure Reef Water Park! Starting Saturday, May 28, the water park will be open daily from noon to 5 p.m. Residents and passholders can enter at noon with general admission beginning at 12:30 p.m. Adventure Reef will feature lower daily admission and season pass rates....

Backyard Water Safety Series: Layers of Protection

Posted on May 18, 2022

Playing in water is one of the best summer activities to have fun and keep cool. While we are enjoying our fun in the sun, it is important to be aware of the potential hazards that exist in and around water. Most drowning incidents occur in home swimming pools, but any source of water can...

Celebrate Bike Month in Kettering

Posted on May 13, 2022

On Tuesday, May 10, Mayor Lehner proclaimed May as Bike Month in Kettering! Cycling offers a wide range of benefits including greater physical health, improved mental/emotional wellbeing and a positive impact on the environment. PRCA is partnering with Cycle Kettering, a chapter of Bike Miami Valley, to offer a series of Community Bike Rides this...

Rock Into Summer with Harmonica Neil at the CIL

Posted on May 10, 2022

We've loved seeing our 4th Friday Senior Socials at the Charles I. Lathrem Senior Center become a popular way for area seniors to reconnect and enjoy a fun afternoon together. Karaoke, a gardening seminar with Hope Taft and a penny auction are just a few of the wonderful programs we've been proud to bring to...

May is National Water Safety Month

Posted on May 2, 2022

May is National Water Safety Month! As we head into pool season, it's critical to take some time to review how to keep yourself and your family safe in the water. A happy summer is a safe summer! Caution is key when swimming, fishing or boating. We want you to be safe all the time...

Our Summer 2022 program guide is now live

Posted on April 18, 2022

Whether it's snowing or 80 degrees (which can happen in the same day, of course), we can’t wait for all the fun that’s in store in our Summer 2022 program guide. Registration for summer programs will open for Kettering residents on Monday, May 2 and for non-residents on Monday, May 9. Use your summer downtime...

Treasure hunt with our spring community sale events

Posted on March 9, 2022

Nothing says spring quite like going garage sale-ing. The combination of spring cleaning and warmer weather make garage sales a community favorite for this time of year. Our Adult Programs team wants to help you skip the driving around and searching. Save your gas money for new-to-you treasures instead! First up is our annual Kettering...

Get ready for Summer Camp 2022

Posted on March 1, 2022

Our favorite time of the year is almost upon us – summer! We admit to having a favorite season, but we think we’re justified because we have so much going on in the warmer months. We can’t wait to welcome back our summer camp families! We’ve spent many months planning out the calendar of events....

February is American Heart Month!

Posted on February 1, 2022

Is your January fitness routine losing steam? Don't give up now! Adding movement to your day and eating right are essential for keeping your heart in top shape. As we said in January, exercise isn't a punishment! It's actually a critical form of self care. This February, we're celebrating the National Institute of Health's American...

Be a happier, healthier you in 2022!

Posted on January 4, 2022

Here are ten ways we can help you conquer those wellness goals in 2022. Resolutions aren't a punishment - you deserve to feel great! We are close to home with two convenient neighborhood locations - the Kettering Recreation Complex and the Kettering Fitness & Wellness Center. Our wallet-friendly passes are designed to suit every interest...

Give the gift of play with a PlayKettering gift card

Posted on November 19, 2021

Here's a crazy idea - holiday shopping doesn't have to be stressful. It’s easy to get caught up in finding a hot new toy or piling boxes under the tree. The number of gift guides floating around on Instagram are as overwhelming as the number of gifts out there. And let's not forget the fun...

Meet Art on the Commons artist, Dawna Boehmer

Posted on November 15, 2021

Dawna Boehmer (Hamilton, Ohio) Painting November 15 - 20 www.dawnaboehmer.com Vivid, bold colors bring vibrancy to each painting that Dawna Boehmer creates, sharing narratives of humorous social interaction. Using oil paints and canvas, Dawna has been described as a “sarcastic Norman Rockwell” with her personality and humor shining through. About Art Festivals Dawna says, “I’m...

Meet our National Youth Sports Day featured athletes!

Posted on November 12, 2021

Saturday, November 13, is a great day to play! "National Youth Sports Day unites communities across the country around our core belief that every young person has the right to participate in sports in a diverse, equitable, inclusive, supportive and safe environment. GOAL: Celebrate the positive power of youth sports throughout the United States. WHAT:...

Meet Art on the Commons artist, Karl Feng

Posted on November 8, 2021

Karl Feng (Cincinnati, Ohio) Works on Paper November 8 - 13 https://www.etsy.com/shop/WatercolorByKarlFeng Karl Feng uses a traditional approach to painting with watercolors using a special rice-paper and bamboo brushes. Combining detail and free styles, Karl’s work reflects the respect for natural beauty. Originally from Taiwan, Karl was mentored by several well-known artists from a young...

Meet Art on the Commons artists, Sandra Picciano-Brand & David Brand

Posted on November 1, 2021

David Brand and Sandra Picciano-Brand (Dayton, Ohio) Jewelry November 1 - 6 www.mythicsilver.com www.etsy.com/shop/mythicsilver For over 30 years, Sandra and David Brand have developed a one-of-a-kind process and aesthetic in high quality silver work that incorporates both precision and fluidity. Creating pieces individually and collaboratively, Sandra and David employ a variety of complex and classic...

Kettering Giving Tree FAQ

Posted on October 26, 2021

Our Annual Giving Tree program kicks off on November 8, 2021! Curious about how the program works and whom it helps? Check out the FAQs below. All gifts are due back by Sunday, December 5. How does the Giving Tree work? We take referrals from the guidance counselors in all of the Kettering City Schools....

Debbie and Mike McGinnis Art on the Commons Artists

Meet Art on the Commons artists, Debbie & Mike McGinnis

Posted on October 20, 2021

Debbie and Mike McGinnis (Beavercreek, Ohio) Woodworking October 25 – 30 www.etsy.com/shop/mmcginniswoodworking Debbie and Mike McGinnis have been creating art for decades side by side as a husband and wife team. Their woodwork – although different from each other – demonstrates the natural beauty of each wood type, using a variety of carving and lathe...

Carve your perfect pumpkin

Posted on October 19, 2021

Get ready, get set for our Kettering Jack-O-Lantern Glow, a community-wide event happening on October 30. All you need to do to participate is something you were probably planning on doing already - carve a pumpkin, add a light and display it in front of your home! With all of Kettering walking and driving around town...

Meet Art on the Commons artist, Alison Fawcett

Posted on October 18, 2021

Alison Fawcett (Dayton, Ohio) Ceramics and Jewelry October 18 - 23 www.afawcettpottery.com Alison Fawcett draws, carves and forms porcelain into fine art, including functional ceramic work and jewelry. Using hand painted techniques and intricate patterns, Fawcett’s details reflect the delicacy of her chosen material. Fawcett’s subject matter investigates our relationship with food culture. She wrote:...

Meet Art on the Commons Artist, Priya Rama

Posted on October 11, 2021

Priya Rama (Mason, Ohio) Painting October 11 – 16 https://priyarama.com/ Movement and texture dance across the canvases of Priya Rama’s paintings. Using jewel-tone colors, abstraction complements technique and concept. Rama paints in acrylics, using a variety of techniques to build up her layers of color, pattern and texture. Rama’s paintings are an extension of her...

Meet Art on the Commons Artist, Loretta Wikstrom

Posted on October 4, 2021

Loretta Wikstrom (Centerville, Ohio) Mixed Media October 4 - 9 Inspired by her life of traveling and nature, Loretta Wikstrom’s artwork depicts quiet moments in landscapes and animal portraits. Using a variety of mixed media, such as watercolor, acrylic, inks and colored pencils, her work shows a range of colors, emotions and techniques. Driven by...

Yetunde Rodriguez Art on the Commons Artist

Meet Art on the Commons Artist, Yetunde Rodriguez

Posted on September 27, 2021

Yetunde Rodriguez (Dayton, Ohio) Textiles September 27 - October 2 www.yetunderodriguez.com https://yaytoonday.com/ Incorporating bold colors and patterns into her compositions, Yetunde Rodriguez explores the graphic nature of print in her artwork. The results are lively and visually impactful wall hangings, pillow covers, plant holders, clothing and more. Trained as a graphic designer, Rodriguez taps into...

Fitness Patron Spotlight: Brian Jackson

Posted on September 24, 2021

Today's featured fitness patron, Brian Jackson, has been a member of the Kettering Fitness and Wellness Center since September of 2018. He recently sat down with Fitness Supervisor, Lindsey Curry, to share the details of his fitness journey and what he enjoys most about working out in Kettering. Q: Can you tell us a little...

Meet Art on the Commons Artist, Sharon Stolzenberger

Posted on September 20, 2021

Sharon Stolzenberger (Kettering, Ohio) Mixed Media Featured September 20 – 25 A long-time Art on the Commons artist, Sharon Stolzenberger creates densely textured paintings that incorporating her love of animals and nature. Using watercolors as her primary medium, she often will transform her compositions through collage, stenciling, and patterning. The resulting artworks offer new narratives...

Meet Art on the Commons Artist, Dan Cleary

Posted on September 17, 2021

Dan Cleary is a photographer based in the Dayton area, whose commercial work has made Cleary Creative Photography a staple for capturing life’s moments for over 30 years. Cleary has expanded his practice to include fine art processes, and his digital artwork series, My Wright Brothers: Then and Now, explores the past and present of...

Make new connections during Active Aging Week

Posted on September 16, 2021

As we age, it’s easy to become less active and more isolated. However, this isn’t what’s best for us. Staying physically active, as well as remaining engaged with a supportive community, is tied to a number of physical, mental and emotional benefits such as greater heart health, a lower risk for Type 2 diabetes, improved...

Kettering PRCA is proud to be reaccredited!

Posted on September 14, 2021

Kettering Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts has officially maintained its status among the ranks of elite park and recreation agencies across the country by earning reaccreditation through the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) and the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). This distinguished accomplishment was awarded during the 2021 NRPA Annual...

Try a Pop Up Program this fall

Posted on September 8, 2021

Surprise - this fall, we're excited to launch a series of pop-up programs! These brand-new activities for kids and families are an extra addition to our fall lineup and will be taking place throughout September and October. We're offering two special events for families to enjoy some time outdoors together. Two teen programs are also...

National Parks & Recreation Month Patron Feature: Lynn Wheeler

Posted on July 26, 2021

Kettering’s unofficial arts ambassador can often be found at Rosewood Arts Centre playing with clay, chatting with fellow artists, or guiding tours through the building. Lynn Wheeler is a staple in the Rosewood community. Her passion for the arts is a big part of how she navigated the pandemic’s ups and downs. Several years before...

National Parks & Recreation Month Patron Feature: Benee Peavy

Posted on July 23, 2021

Over a year ago, when the pandemic drastically changed our lives, Benee Peavy found a new service that would change hers: the CIL Senior Transportation provided through Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts. Running on weekdays, the program provides door-to-door service to shopping and personal appointments throughout Kettering. “With this service, I was able to get...

National Parks & Recreation Month Staff Feature: Lindsey Whitley

Posted on July 19, 2021

As the PRCA department secretary, Lindsey Whitley plays a key role in keeping everything running smoothly from day to day. She assists every patron who calls, emails and visits the PRCA administrative office, plus supports our PRCA Director. “I love working with and helping people!” Whitley said. “I work with the staff, citizens, volunteers and...

National Parks & Recreation Month Patron Feature: Gayle Ingram

Posted on July 16, 2021

Gayle Ingram and her dog Dixie are familiar faces in Kettering’s parks. One of their favorite spaces for their daily walk is Delco Park. “My favorite memories [of Kettering's parks] are from when my grandkids were little,” Ingram said. “We’d go to Delco Park to fish and fly kites. We also fished at the pond...

National Parks & Recreation Month Staff Feature: Sara Thomas

Posted on July 12, 2021

The voice of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts social media and so much more, Sara Thomas takes her role as Communications Coordinator to the highest quality possible. Her deep knowledge of the department, along with her excellent writing skills, humor and kindness, bring the many stories of Kettering to light, and keep us informed, engaged...

National Parks & Recreation Month Patron Feature: Dan Lewis

Posted on July 9, 2021

Over eight years ago, a doctor told Dan Lewis to make some changes to his lifestyle. Lewis, who works in Kettering, took the doctor’s advice and began frequenting the Kettering Fitness and Wellness Center (KFWC) adjacent to the Trent Arena. New to exercise, Lewis began on treadmills, and soon began to see results. He added...

National Parks & Recreation Month Staff Feature: Mary Beth O’Dell

Posted on July 7, 2021

As the Director of Kettering’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts, Mary Beth O’Dell is committed to ensuring that the community has access to the highest quality parks and recreation experiences possible. Under her leadership, our department has been recognized with a host of honors, including several re-accreditations through CAPRA and the 2014 National...

July is National Parks and Recreation Month!

Posted on June 30, 2021

Every July, the National Recreation and Park Association sponsors National Parks and Recreation Month to highlight the benefits access to quality parks, recreation and cultural arts programming brings to the public. Each year’s celebration includes a unique theme. For 2021, we’re highlighting Our Park and Recreation Story. The services that parks and recreation professionals provide...

Gatorade Play It Forward Grant to benefit youth open gym this fall

Posted on June 14, 2021

The Kettering Parks Foundation was the recipient of a $1,000 grant from the Gatorade Ohio Basketball Player of the Year, Madeline Westbeld. The Gatorade Play It Forward initiative works in conjunction with the Gatorade Player of the Year program to empower student athletes to provide resources to sports organizations in their communities. Gatorade Player of...

Go 4th and celebrate!

Posted on June 10, 2021

When we count down the fireworks every year at Go 4th, we usually count back from ten, not from 2019! While we were happy to do our part to protect the community’s safety last year, we missed seeing everyone for our biggest event of the year. We’re thrilled to be back in action for 2021,...

Ride your bike to Kettering’s public artworks this summer

Posted on May 10, 2021

The 2021 Miami Valley Cycling Summit took place on May 7 and 14 in Kettering! To commemorate this special program, Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts is participating with short videos, presented by Kettering residents, about the artwork and architecture that you can easily bike to all over the city! We'll also be releasing these videos...

The City of Kettering now has a Tree Committee

Posted on April 29, 2021

Committee member terms are for one year, during which three meetings are held. Members will continue the strong history of stewardship and proper management of trees and the City of Kettering’s Urban Canopy; build advocacy for the programs and services the City of Kettering provides in relation to its Urban Canopy; provide recommendations and assist...

Fitness Spotlight: Peter McNeely

Posted on March 30, 2021

This week's featured fitness patron, Peter McNeely, found that working with a personal trainer was the best way to achieve his goals, and he was happy to find that getting started with a trainer was easy. If you've ever considered working with a trainer, but have been intimidated or unsure about the process, read on...

Fitness Spotlight: Joy Becker

Posted on March 25, 2021

Image: KRC staff member Joy Becker (second row, far right) enjoys working out in our Ladies Group Training class. If you're a regular at the Kettering Recreation Complex, you'll definitely recognize this week's featured fitness patron! Joy Becker is a familiar face at the KRC desk, and she loves to hang at the KRC off...

Let’s go camp – safely!

Posted on March 9, 2021

Our favorite time of the year is almost upon us – summer! We admit to having a favorite season, but we think we’re justified because we have so much going on in the warmer months. This year, we can’t wait to welcome back our summer camp families! We missed seeing our campers’ smiling faces in...

Fitness Spotlight: Rhonda Zink

Posted on March 3, 2021

Image: Rhonda Zink (center) is a longtime member of our Parkinson's Circuit Class. Today, we're spotlighting exercise patron Rhonda Zink, who has been taking the Parkinson's Circuit Class with us for several years. Thanks for sharing your story with us, Rhonda! 1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got...

Kettering announces formation of an all-new Tree Committee

Posted on February 19, 2021

The City of Kettering Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts is pleased to announce the formation of an all-new Tree Committee to organize efforts in the city’s management, preservation, and conservation of public trees. In 2020, the City’s Parks Division completed a citywide tree inventory and risk assessment of all trees that it maintains....

Tax Appointments – Now Full

Posted on January 16, 2021

**All tax appointment time slots are now full. If you scheduled an appointment with us, please see below for important information.** The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program offers free tax preparation assistance. All preparers are IRS-certified volunteers. Due to safety protocol, the total number of appointments available this year has been greatly reduced. Appointments will fill...

Fitness Spotlight: Paige, Jason and Jey

Posted on January 15, 2021

Featured image: Paige and Jason Henry enjoy a workout with buddy Jey Ellis, even while staying six feet apart! Fitness is always more fun with a workout buddy! No one knows that better than Paige and Jason Henry and Jey Ellis, who have been working out together five days per week for three years at...

Fitness Spotlight: Connie Dell

Posted on January 5, 2021

It's easy to say 'new year, new you,' but how do we move beyond our good intentions and find a healthy routine that sticks? One way is to set a goal that truly motivates you like our featured patron Connie Dell did. Connie began her fitness journey in our group exercise classes at the Kettering...

5 Ways to Stay Active When the Weather Outside is Frightful

Posted on December 9, 2020

As the days get shorter and we start to add more layers to our wardrobe, it’s inevitable that we stop being as active as we were in the warmer months, right? Just because the weather might not be ideal, it doesn’t mean we can’t adapt and still enjoy nature with a little planning and determination....

Light up the holidays

Posted on December 5, 2020

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!...

How to celebrate the holidays in Kettering

Posted on November 11, 2020

The weather might be trying to make up its mind, but there's no getting around it - the holidays are on their way! Our 2020 holiday programs have been carefully planned to ensure that each guest has as fun and safe an experience as possible. Visit our COVID-19 Information Hub to learn more about all...

Quiz: The power of playing nice

Posted on October 28, 2020

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...

Staff Spolight: Chloe Fletcher, Lifeguard Team

Posted on October 5, 2020

Today, we’re spotlighting Chloe Fletcher, a member of our awesome lifeguard team! Chloe is also a graduate of our American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification program. She recently shared with us how the class has helped her grow personally and professionally. “The Red Cross lifeguard certification class I took at the Kettering Recreation Complex taught me...

The Health Benefits of Ice Skating

Posted on September 2, 2020

Do you need a cool way to work out over the winter? Ice skating has many health and wellness benefits, plus it’s lots of fun! Learn about how ice skating can help you reach your fitness goals and find some tips on getting started. Joint and muscle health Skating works nearly every muscle group in...

National Park & Recreation Month: Jackie Lawless

Posted on July 20, 2020

Our National Park and Recreation Month celebration continues in Kettering! This year’s national theme is “We Are Parks and Recreation.” Resident Jackie Lawless, who serves on Kettering’s Sister Cities Committee, wrote this about her favorite park: “I love Kettering! Lincoln Park is such a treasure! The entire park is well kept with beautiful fountains in...

National Park & Recreation Month: Paula Kraus

Posted on July 7, 2020

Our National Park & Recreation Month featured staff member today is Rosewood Gallery Coordinator, Paula Kraus! Our Cultural Arts Manager, Shayna McConville, nominated her, saying, "Paula Willmot Kraus is a well-known and beloved artist in the Dayton region. She is passionate about photography, and when she's not creating new work or teaching photo techniques, she...

National Park & Recreation Month: Joy Becker

Posted on July 7, 2020

Our final staff feature for National Park & Recreation Month spotlights Joy Becker, who works at the Kettering Recreation Complex. She was nominated by KRC facility manager, Chris George, who said: "Joy has been here for 29 years helping us serve our patrons. Over the last few weeks before Joy came back, we would get...

National Park & Recreation Month: Danielle Kauth

Posted on July 7, 2020

Today's National Park & Recreation Month featured Kettering resident, Danielle Kauth, created memories with her family by exploring the city's parks. "There are 21 parks in Kettering, and my kids and I decided we wanted to go to them all!" she wrote. "We managed to complete this little challenge, and we had the best time!...

National Park & Recreation Month: Nancy Boss

Posted on July 7, 2020

National Park & Recreation Month continues! A familiar face to anyone that frequents the Kettering Recreation Complex and Rosewood Arts Centre, Nancy Lynn Boss has been teaching various fitness and dance classes for over 40 years. Before joining the Kettering Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts team, Nancy studied dance with Jorg Fastings from the Columbus...

National Park & Recreation Month: Nick Zaccaria

Posted on July 7, 2020

Today's National Park & Recreation Month featured staff member is Parks Service Worker Nick Zaccaria. Nick was nominated for this feature by Parks Superintendent, Gary Schussler, who said, "Nick is a newer employee and one who switched careers when he moved to Ohio to the park industry about two and a half years ago. He...

National Park & Recreation Month: Meghan Thomas

Posted on July 7, 2020

We are celebrating National Park and Recreation Month here in Kettering! Meghan Thomas is a resident and a Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts superuser! She wrote: “We love Kettering because we LOVE the Parks and Rec program! The rich programming available is a main driving force for our choice to buy a home and raise...

National Park & Recreation Month: Jonelle Carroll

Posted on July 6, 2020

We are celebrating National Park and Recreation Month here in Kettering! Kettering resident Jonelle Carroll is an active participant in the wide range of programs offered through our city’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts department. Here's what Jonelle had to say about PRCA: “I believe it is one of the many things that makes Kettering...

Staff volunteers to help Kettering students in need

Posted on May 27, 2020

Fifteen Kettering Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts staff members have spent about three hundred total hours volunteering with the Kettering Backpack Program. This program, which started in 2006, has continued to distribute food to Kettering students in need during the pandemic. PRCA staff, along with Kettering City Schools employees, have been working at distribution sites...

Kettering is proud to be a “Tree City USA”

Posted on March 10, 2020

If you’re like most people, you might have spent more time indoors this winter, eagerly awaiting the arrival of spring. Since this is Ohio, we can’t really ever be sure if it has truly arrived, but it’s safe to say it’s near. As you and your family venture out more this time of year, take...

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...

Take a Giving Tree tag to help a Kettering family!

Posted on November 10, 2019

Our 2020 Giving Tree program kicks off on November 9! In these difficult times, it's more important than ever to consider giving back to the community. Curious about how the program works and whom it helps? Our Program and Youth Development Supervisor, Addie Weaver, who coordinates the program, answers our FAQ below. Read on to...

Adult sports 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 can reduce the risk of 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...

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...

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: ...

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....

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