Recent Stories

Reaping the Benefits of Diversity

I am in the midst of what will be my best year in the garden ever. Even if everything got wiped out by a storm or a swarm tomorrow, this still will be a more productive year than any I've ever had. A more beautiful year. A more fruitful year. The abundance of flowers and vegetables at this moment makes every bit of sweaty work worth it.

The Last Word with…Shawna Levins

You might say that Shawna Levins' interest in the recreation industry was in her DNA. In the 1950s, '60s and '70s, her father, Jan Madrid, was a professional wrestler, whom she called "one of the industry's greatest and most flamboyant showmen."

Dog Parks: Something More for People & Pets

The best pet parks provide something a little different. At this park in downtown Belvidere, Ill., you can play with your pooch and then get Fido all cleaned up before you head home.

Aquatics: The Air in There

When this indoor aquatic facility hosted a large competitive event, it found its air handling system was not up to snuff. Now, with the right solution in place, swimmers and staffers are protected.

The Fundamentals of Fun

When you're hosting a festival or event, there's some basic, though temporary, infrastructure that can help you put on a great show. From mobile stages and bleachers to concessions and more, we take a look at how to outfit your fest.

Heat Your Pool Efficiently

We are looking for an efficient pool heater that can help lower the operating costs of our facility. Are there any high-efficiency heaters available that will suit our purposes? If you want to heat your pool water with the most efficient system available, look for a high-efficiency heater designed specifically for commercial pools.

Learn New Ideas in Facility Management

Attending trade shows and conferences is a great way to learn new ideas for your facility. Networking with peers and talking to manufacturers—especially when they aren't your usual contacts—can help deliver innovative new approaches. A European trade show and conference is an exciting way to get new ideas and explore different views.

Provide Secure Storage

In recent years, usage patterns have changed at fitness facilities. Many patrons and members are now choosing to bypass the locker room. Instead, they come in, work out and head home to hit the showers. But they still need somewhere to secure personal items while they take part in programs or work out on the equipment.

Provide a Pleasing Locker Room

The locker room isn't necessarily the first amenity potential patrons notice, but it's an essential part of your patrons' experience. Creating a pleasing space where patrons will both begin and end their visit is an excellent way to ensure an overall great experience.