Erin Dickerson’s Prayer
This week is National Volunteer Week.
“When you volunteer, you vote every day about the kind of community you want to live in.” – Author Unknown
Lord our God,
As we come to the end of each day, may we ask ourselves what we have done to make our lives and the lives of those around us better. Help us to reflect on what we can do to leave this planet and the people on it better than they were when we arrived. And most importantly, lead us to put action behind our answers.
Amen.
Announcements
Safetyville Square
Katie Calloway announced that half of the slots for Safetyville Square have been filled. Many teen volunteers have already signed up as well. If any Optimist members are interested in volunteering, it runs June 9–26 from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Email Katie for details.
Safety on Wheels
Steve Mays announced that Safety on Wheels will be Sunday May 18, 2025, at Forest Field from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. They need 10 volunteers. There is a new tent layout which means you won’t be in the sun the entire time. Please sign up using the Member Calendar.
Kentucky Derby Party
Beth Duncan announced that the Derby Party will take place May 3, 2025, at 4:30 PM. For details and to sign up, use the Member Calendar. Sue said it is time to start making your hats for the Derby Hat contest.
Summer Reading Program
Debe Dockins shared that the Summer Reading Club Kickoff for the library is on May 31, 2025, at Sinclair in Centerville. Volunteers are needed to represent the Optimists and talk with families. Shifts are 1:00–2:30 PM and 2:30–4:00 PM. Please sign up using the Member Calendar.
Got Talent Contest
Erin Laurito announced that the Centerville Washington Got Talent live contest is on May 7, 2025, at 6:30 PM at CHS. You can just show up to watch the talent. Come support the amazing young performers!
Tri-Star Soccer Needs New Co-Chairs
Chris McAlpine announced that he and Greg Wasmund have stepped down from their co-chair roles after several years. The committee is now seeking new co-chairs. Chris and Greg will remain available to assist with the event execution and have documented procedures in place. They are ready for others to handle the organization and promotion responsibilities. You don’t need to know anything about soccer to run this fun annual event. Reach out to Chris, Greg or the Board of Directors.
Happy Birthday Jeff Busch
Happy Birthday to Jeff Busch. Bob Duffy was the music director today in singing Happy Birthday. Bob has not improved and, in fact, he has somehow made our singing worse. It is always the coach’s fault, right?
Have a great year, Jeff Busch. Jeff has been a member since October 31, 2001.
Centerville-Washington Park District – Kristen Marks
About Kristen Marks
Gary Smiga introduced Kristen Marks who brings more than 23 years of experience to the Parks and Recreation profession and proudly serves as the Executive Director of the Centerville-Washington Park District (CWPD). She is passionate about creating lasting memories through exceptional park experiences and is dedicated to fostering a strong connection between the Park District and the community it serves.
She also contributes at the regional level as a member of the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission’s Institute Steering Committee for Livable and Equitable Communities. From 2016 to 2022, she served on the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association Board of Directors, following her term as the association’s Regional Chair.
Originally from the suburbs of Detroit, Kristen’s love for the outdoors was nurtured by childhood adventures traveling the country in an RV and boating across the Great Lakes with her family. She is a proud graduate of Michigan State University, where she met her husband. The two moved to Ohio in pursuit of career opportunities in 2001 and enjoy life’s adventures with their two boys who are 11 and 14.
About the Park District
Mission of CWPD
Deliver fun, healthy, outstanding park experiences that connect the community with the outdoors.
Vision of CWPD
To become the outdoor recreation destination of choice for the community we serve.
Values of CWPD
Creating positive memories, Integrity, Public service, Fiscal responsibility, Environmental responsibility.
Top Ten Things the Centerville-Washington Park District Does That Make You Glad You Live Here!
Kristen Marks gave a lively presentation today using a playful ‘David Letterman Show’-style countdown. Her list of ‘Top Ten Things CWPD Does That Make You Glad You Live Here’ combined humor, heartfelt insights, and useful information about the CWPD. Enjoy!
CWPD Top Ten – David Letterman Style
#10
CWPD has more hiking and walking paths than your cousin has side hustles. (Seriously: We’re talking miles of trails.)
CWPD offers 10 miles of paved paths across a dozen parks. These range from short loops to all-day hikes. Kristen emphasized that paved perimeter paths are the number one request from residents, and now all eight community parks have them. She encouraged members to reach out to her personally if they need suggestions for walking or hiking routes.
#9
Wildflower yoga, glass fusing, and adult archery? Yeah, the CWPD calendar has more variety than a 1970s buffet—with fewer Jell-O molds. (Spoiler: You’re invited!)
Each season, CWPD runs over 120 creative programs across areas such as nature, fitness, crafts, hobbies, and leagues. Kristen praised the staff’s creativity and noted that many programs are expanded by bringing in specialized instructors. She also reminded members that archery isn’t just for kids—adults can join the fun too.
#8
We’ve got more partners than a reality dating show—except ours actually stick around. (Thanks to other entities, businesses, & you!)
CWPD partnered with over 70 businesses and organizations in 2024. Kristen spotlighted the Optimist Club as a key example, noting their involvement in Safety on Wheels and other events. She highlighted that CWPD’s expansion efforts are powered by these valuable partnerships.
#7
We protect more green than your grandma’s Tupperware collection. (Sustainability FTW: Native plantings, pollinator habitats, and eco-friendly practices.)
Conservation efforts include wildlife monitoring, habitat restoration, wetland and streambank projects, and invasive species removal. Kristen discussed their VIPR program (Volunteer Invasive Plant Response), which has already removed 60% of honeysuckle from Bill Yeck Park. She also shared that garlic mustard, another invasive plant, is particularly satisfying to remove—roots and all.
#6
Our summer camp counselors have more energy than a toddler on a juice box binge. (Over 1800 camp enrollments in 2024.)
CWPD values its summer camps for creating positive memories. Kristen shared that they had over 1,600 campers last year and continue to add spots as long as waitlists exist. She emphasized the value of returning counselors and the joyful experience they help build for kids year after year.
#5
You spoke. We took notes. Then we actually did the thing. (For real: Programs and amenities are inspired by your feedback.)
CWPD uses survey results and community engagement to guide their strategic and capital improvement plans. Kristen joked that their process is more ‘Spice Girls’ than ‘Field of Dreams’—they want you to tell them what you want, what you really, really want. A new survey is being mailed to households and is available online. Past feedback led to many upgrades including trails, shade structures, water fountains, AEDs, and accessible playgrounds.
#4
Fresh air, sunshine, and movement: like a group chat for your body and brain, but with 100% fewer notifications. (Side effects include: Better sleep, more smiles, and park-induced swagger.)
Kristen reiterated CWPD’s mission: delivering fun, healthy, outstanding park experiences that connect people to the outdoors. CWPD operates 8 community parks, 9 nature parks, and 34 neighborhood parks, which grew as the township developed and acquired green space via zoning regulations.
#3
Our staff can drag a ball diamond, burn a prairie, and lead a hike—all before lunch. (Basically superheroes in green polos.)
CWPD maintains about 30 full-time staff and 100 seasonal team members in spring and summer. Kristen praised their versatility—from mowing parks and leading hikes to maintaining equipment and even harvesting honey. She noted her admiration for their wide range of talents and dedication.
#2
Because without us, “Movie in the Park” would just be “Movie in Your Basement.” (Outdoor events bring the community together.)
CWPD hosts 36 free community events each year. Kristen said these drop-in events are a direct response to residents wanting more ways to gather, relax, and enjoy parks with no barriers to entry.
#1
We don’t just offer parks—we offer a place where the grass is greener, the bathrooms are cleaner, and everyone waves back. (Honestly: Where else feels this much like home?)
CWPD strives to create a strong sense of place for the residents with the parks, amenities and programs.
Closing Remarks
Kristen closed by saying CWPD strives to create a true sense of place—where residents feel connected and proud. Whether it’s improvements at Village South Park, new bridges at Grant Park, or the famous giant chair now at Oak Grove, the goal is always the same: to make Centerville-Washington Township feel like home.
Slides
You can view Kristen’ slide deck of the presentation here.
Q and A
Q: Is CWPD considering installing a turf field at one of the parks?
A: The idea has been discussed, however, turf fields require a significant financial investment—not just in the initial installation but also in ongoing maintenance and eventual replacement. CWPD’s primary mission is public recreation, not elite athletic facilities. That said, if a partner organization stepped forward to help fund such a project, CWPD would be open to exploring it further. Kristen mentioned a feasibility study would be helpful to determine what kind of field, what sports it would support, and what kind of return on investment it could bring.
Q: Where can I recycle batteries and similar items?
A: CWPD offers year-round battery recycling at Activity Center Park. There’s a bin just outside the community room. Seasonal items like holiday lights are accepted from November through February. Kristen mentioned their goal is to consolidate recycling access so residents don’t have to drive all over the place to dispose of specialty items.
Q: What happened to the giant wooden chair that used to move around the parks?
A: The giant chair now has a permanent home at Oak Grove Park near the pond. Moving it repeatedly caused wear and tear, so CWPD anchored it in one spot. However, they are considering a new whimsical installation—possibly a giant owl (inspired by their mascot Owlexander). Kristen said, “Stay tuned!”
Q: How is Forest Field Park holding up with increased traffic?
A: Kristen said that Forest Field is the district’s most popular park right now—according to both visitor numbers and the current community survey. She thanked the Optimist Club for helping fund the modern and safe playground equipment. CWPD recently added a seesaw and other features to keep it fresh for repeat visitors.
Q: What about the pop-up dog parks? Will those come back?
A: The pop-up dog parks toured the entire district for four years, hitting every neighborhood park at least three times. However, the fencing took a beating from being moved so often. The program is currently paused, but CWPD may bring it back based on community feedback. Kristen shared that some residents loved them so much they tracked their locations like groupies!
Thank You
Thank you, Kristen Marks, for your creative and engaging presentation about the Centerville-Washington Park District. Your David Letterman-style Top Ten List made us laugh, learn, and appreciate just how much CWPD does to make our community a better place to live.
In Memoriam: D. Ralph Young (1925–2025)
Patrick Arehart shared the sad news that D. Ralph Young, a World War II veteran and former CNO member, passed away on April 27, 2025—just two months after celebrating his 100th birthday on March 4, 2025.
Ralph was a proud Optimist and truly enjoyed being part of the club. He stepped away when his hearing made it difficult to follow our speakers.
Ralph spoke to our club twice about his service in the Pacific Theater during WWII. Here are the links to those talks:
CNO Officers for 2025-2026
Jean Pummill announced that nominations for officers were closed and accepted as recommended by the nomination committee. Bill Stone moved to approve the slate, and Dick Stevens seconded. The nominations were approved by unanimous consent, completing the process.
Officers for 2025–2026
- President and Vice-President
- President: Sarah Umbreit
- President-Elect: Greg Wasmund
- Paul Boeckman: Immediate Past President.
- Vice-President: Jane Fiehrer
- Vice-President: Andy Higgins
Board of Directors (Starting their two-year term)
- Cameron Langer
- Stephanie Llacuna
- Kristin Passidomo
- Sam Pfabe
- Don Stafford
Board of Directors (Finishing the second and final year of their term)
- Greg Hoffbauer
- Erin Laurito
- Bob Myers
- Paul Stull
- Liz Fultz has been selected to complete the remaining term of Andy Higgins since he will be Vice-President.
Appointed Officers (Selected by President Sarah Umbreit)
- Treasurer: Roland Rapp
- Secretary: Jean Pummill
- Past President Representative: Greg Griffin
President Paul’s Quote of the Week
“The most effective way to do it, is to do it.” -Amelia Earhart
Volunteer and Social Event Signups Available Online with the Virtual Clipboard
Did you know you can now sign up to volunteer or participate in social events using a simple online registration form from your phone or PC? The Member Calendar has a complete list of upcoming volunteer opportunities and social events.
Welcome Guests
| Guest | Guest Of |
| Melissa Busch | Jeff Busch |
| Sean Wilz | Scott Langer |
| Vivette Bowling | Patrick Arehart |
New Member Readings and Inductions
| Name | Sponsor | 1st 2nd 3rd Reading or Induction |
| Vivette Bowling | Patrick Arehart | 3rd Reading |
Happy Bucks
| Member | Reason |
| Katie Calloway | She thanked everyone who came to her Dad’s, Gary Hansen, celebration of life on Saturday. |
| Jeff Busch | Their daughter is pregnant with their first grandchild. |
| Joan Cordonnier | The Little Mermaid production at CHS is a phenomenal and has professional level singing. |
| Joan Cordonnier | Centerville High School eSports team won the state tournament where 250 schools participated. CNO donated money for computers used for training. |
| Charlie Goodwin | He recently completed a large and detailed Victorian doll house for his granddaughter that he worked on for three years. He rented a cargo van to take it to Philadelphia because it missed fitting in his SUV by a half of an inch. |
| Gail Aiken | She just donated blood for the 76th time which matches her age. |
| Debe Dockins | $10, Thanks to everyone that attended the Friends of the Library fundraiser “Out of the Pocket with Kirk Herbstreit” on Saturday. She gave special thanks to Diane Arehart and Evelyn Griffin, who are on the Friends Board. |
| Stephanie Llacuna | TRI is hosting a sensory friendly kids party on May 3, 2025. |
| Rachel Goetz | Jane Fiehrer created awesome magnets for the 49 Visual Arts participants featuring their artwork and the Visual Arts logo. |
| Mike Bevis | Grateful for the park tour Kristen Marks gave he and his wife years ago, and now she is the director of CWPD. |
| Tom Novak | He highly suggest you attend the Got Talent Contest at CHS on May 7, 2025. |
| Tom Conroy | Their sixth grandchild is on the way. |
| Cris Peterson | Thank you to CNO for the $1400 grant that will be used for horse-riding for kids with diabetes. |
| Ellie Parker | Thanks to everyone who tried to return the hat that she did not lose. Have you recently lost a hat? |
Sergeants at Arms – Steve Rau and Don Stafford
| Member | Infraction |
| Bill Stone | President Paul Boeckman was able to steal the gavel back from Bill Stone |
| Bob Myers | He said in his recent bio that he swings because he was in a swing band during college and sergeant Don Stafford thought that was close enough to the word ‘swingers’ and fined him. |
| Charlie Tapp | He was fined for being a CNO member for 47 years. |
| Gary Anderson | He is going to be a sergeant next quarter, so he was find to remind him that there is a dress code for sergeants. |
| Jim Mogan | He was wearing a shameless self-promotion shirt for his travel agency that specializes in group tours. |
Club Membership Anniversaries
| Member | Joined | Years |
| Charlie Tapp | May 1, 1978 | 47 |
| Tim Stull | May 1, 1987 | 38 |
| Mark Metzger | May 2, 2023 | 2 |
| Karen Charnesky | May 2, 2023 | 2 |
Birthdays
| Jeff Busch | April 29 |
| Brandon Barrett | April 30 |
| Lynne Reilly | May 1 |
| Melissa DeShurko | May 4 |
| Chris Wysong | May 4 |
| Keith Weiskittle | May 4 |
CNO Donations – Since 2013
Click here to see a summary of donations the club has made since 2013
Thank You Notes Received
CLICK HERE to see the Thank You Notes received this week
Links to PowerPoint and Pictures
CLICK HERE to see the PowerPoint Slides from this week’s meeting