Places for People

"COME OUT AND PLAY"

You might think of recreation as being for children or consisting of sport activities. It is both of these, but it means much more than that.

Parks and recreation are fun and provide enjoyment but it goes beyond just fun. It is fundamental to the quality of life, of people, community and our society as a whole.

The biggest social issue affecting residents of Kentucky and the rest of the U.S. is health care. We spend 14% of our GDP (Gross Domestic Product) on health care. Parks and recreation are important components in reducing such cost.

Parks and recreation are supposed to enhance the “well-being” of the public. "Well-being" said another way is being well. Recreation and park departments, in short, are supposed to provide recreation as a means to the end of staying healthy.

Nearly 80% of Americans are considered sedentary and at risk of a major illness as a result of inactive lifestyles. Physical inactivity contributes to the premature death of many Americans each year.

Almost one-third (32.6%) of deaths in Kentucky are due to heart disease. The state of Kentucky ranks 3rd in the nation of those reporting NO leisure time physical activity and 4th in the nation reporting the LEAST amount of regular sustained activity. There is no drug now or expected in the future that holds as much promise for sustained health as a lifetime program of physical exercise and activity.

The National Park and Recreation Association has become the lead agency to carry the fitness and health message to the American public. The "Active Living, Healthy Lifestyles" project of the NPRA has selected nine strategies for getting people out to play and get more out of life.

1. Break the time barrier. Make play a priority. Make a date to recreate.

2. ETC (Entertain the Choice)
Make a list of things you always wanted to try. Do one this week.

3. Connect /Disconnect
Interact with people. Get away from it all.

4. Be a tourist in your own town.
Become acquainted with what is happening locally. Try the July 3rd and 4th events here in Wilmore.

5. Healthy pleasures.
Find something you enjoy that helps you unwind, relax, laugh or cry. Walk, read, get a hobby.

6. Don't break the bank.
The best things in life are free: fish, bird watch, walk, volunteer.

7. Find your fun focus.
Pinpoint the focus for your recreational activities and you may be able to restore balance in your Iife.

8. Go for the flow.
Seek out activities that create feelings of enjoyment, are engaging and challenge your abilities.

9. Carpe diem.
Seize the day. Enjoy the moment.

--Mayor Harold L. Rainwater