Welcome to Park Conversations
Park Conversations is a biannual magazine that spotlights the conversations happening throughout Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation. We want our members, program participants, and park users to be seen and heard, and Park Conversations does just that.
The impact of parks and recreation can truly be transformative! Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation is fortunate to offer something for everyone. We encourage you to explore the science of nature, engage in our adaptive programs, connect with others on the playground, or find a better you through fitness and wellness.
Keep the conversation going! SHARE YOUR OWN STORY.

Welcome back to Park Conversations, where we share stories of our parks, programs, and the people we serve. After several years of only producing a digital version, we are thrilled once again to share this magazine with you. At the root of each story is how Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation is here to support you as a member of our community.
I hope the articles in this edition both inspire and inform you. From helping individuals achieve their goals to providing rewarding ways to give back to others, this issue highlights the experiences and lasting memories that unfold every day in your award-winning park and recreation system.
Whether you’re an active user of our programs and facilities or simply enjoy seeing natural areas and greenspace being preserved throughout the city, Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation is here to serve you. However you engage with us, we look forward to being the best part of your day!
Recreationally Yours,
Michael W. Klitzing, CPRE
Director of Parks and Recreation
Stories We’re Helping Tell

Variety is the Spice of Life: Recreation programs delight even the most adventurous at heart
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Volunteers Make a Difference, One Park at a Time
Adopt-A-Park volunteers take an active role in caring for our community's natural resources.
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One Price. One Place. All Access.
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Nurturing and Exploring the Artist in Each of Us
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Reimagining River Heritage Park
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MCC Offers One-Stop Training for Half Iron Man – Make that Half Iron Woman
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Explore. Engage. Connect — With Nature
We're reimagining recreation with a focus on nature.
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Meant for This
How life experiences inspire Kelvin Solares to "Include All" in the Carmel community.
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Reimagining West Park
In fall 2022, West Park will reopen with a completely reimagined play experience.
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Finding Strength + Accountability at the MCC
Amanda Luper found strength, accountability and community at the MCC.
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CCPR Makes Recreation Accessible for All Abilities
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Q&A with Michael Klitzing
To celebrate this year's milestone, Klitzing took a moment to reflect on his time with CCPR over its 30 year history.
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Q&A with Jim Engledow + Rich Taylor
In celebration of CCPR’s 30th anniversary, these two Park Board presidents took time to reflect on their role with CCPR.
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Q&A with Mark Westermeier
Westermeier reflected on his time with CCPR over its 30-year history.
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Convenient Before and After School Care for Families
CCPR’s ESE program is tested and trusted by Carmel families.
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Flora + Fauna
Creating Balance: In our parks, our backyards and around the world. CCPR is making a difference and so can you.
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Movement for Every Body
Registered Dance/Movement Therapist teaches programming at the MCC. Get to know Breanna Davis!
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Reimagining Meadowlark Park
On April 1, Meadowlark Park will close as it undergoes construction as part of our Reimagining Parks initiative.
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Mud Pie Anyone?
Nature programs create lifelong naturalists promoting a love of the great outdoors.
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Connecting Community
Virtual fitness classes keep MCC members connected and their fitness on track during COVID-related closure.
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Reimagining Carey Grove Park
Beloved Carey Grove Park undergoes renovations and enhancements ensuring memorable outdoor fun.
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Inclusion at Every Age
Adaptive programming creates a nurturing and safe environment for continuing skill development.
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Protecting Imperiled Pollinators
Native seed collection through Project Wingspan boosts the monarch and rusty patch bumblebee population.
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Growth through Community
The Monon Community Center offers amenities and a fitness community to call home.
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Teaching Takes a Global Path
Dena Osting has taught all around the globe, but her journey brought her back to where she started — making a difference in her hometown.
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Help our Native Habitats
Make a difference in your own backyard with tips from our Natural Resources team about eradicating invasive species!
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Reimagining Flowing Well Park
With a national park feel right here in Carmel, people are coming from far and wide to visit for the experience.
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The Path to Independence
Over the last decade, Michael + Jessica Sharkey have been on their own path to independence. Adaptive programming at the MCC has helped them along the way.
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Growing is Good for You
Take a chance on yourself and see what a difference change can make in your body, mind and spirit.
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Engaging with the Park System
Volunteering is a way to connect with nature and future generations
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The Student Voice Matters
Empowering students to use their voice leads to happiness, fun and learning
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A Walk with Nature
Monica Cannaley has participated in the On the Trail to Fitness program every week since 2014! Learn more about the program and what keeps her coming back for more.
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A Journey to Transformation
Jumanah Alsaffar found all the tools she needed for her transformation at the Monon Community Center. Now, this real-life wonder woman is unstoppable.
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Preparing for the Trip of a Lifetime
Jack Brummett traveled to see world wonders. His journey started at the Monon Community Center.
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Diving into our Soil
Brittany McAdams, our natural resources coordinator, helps the community understand our history and our future through our soil.
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Inlow Park: An Inclusive Community Adventure
Explorers of all abilities will find a unique, hands-on experience at the newly renovated Lawrence W. Inlow Park!
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BIG Dreams Become Reality
Michelle Yadon, our inclusion supervisor, has big dreams for our adaptive participants and programming.
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