PRECA 11-07-1984 - Laserfiche WebLink

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JUNCTION CI?Y, lUlNSAB HISTORY The fall '83 dedication of Junction City's Gamefield brought out the media in full force. Recreation Director Ben Bennett reported that representatives from newspapers, along with radio and television stations had all covered his story beginning with the grant award, following with the installation, and featuring the Opening Day ceremonies that honored the Mayor and Commission Chairwoman. RESULTS AND BENEFITSs PUBLICITY = LOCAL BUSINESS SUPPORT ~. Although everyone enjoys headlines, Bennett is .able to tabulate-concrete bene- fits of the publicity that featured his Gamefield. To launch its upcoming "Centennial Celebration," a Junction City bank will sponsor this spring's "Gamefield Challenge." Other local businesses ,will be contributing to the celebration, thus allowing Bennett to offer this event to his community at virtually no cost. "After seeing the hoopla caused by on= Gamefield last pear," Bennett ex- plained, 'our local Bank President caste to ne Frith the Centennial's plans _all napped out.. I think ve•ve set a precedent for this rind of support." CITY OF MESA ARIZONA ~~ !. HISTORY In 1983, the Park and Recreation Department of Mesa entered into a partnership with three junior high schools, placing its first three Gamefields on school property, with -the agreement that they be open for public use during non-school hours . RESULTS AND BENEFITS: PARKS + SCHOOLS GREATER COMMUNITY SUPPORT The use of the Gaatefields in physical education classes and athletic team train- ing, and by parents and neighbors after school and on weekends, has created such widespread community support that Mesa park officials are being urged to place Gamefields at the two remaining junior high schools. Why on school grounds? Maurice Bateman, Park and Recreation Director, replied, "What better way to. win for children, adults...and the park department?" -2-