Thank You for you interest in the City of Pocatello’s Parks and Recreation Department.

As Director, it is my pleasure to welcome you to another fabulous fall and winter season with the Pocatello Parks and Recreation Department. As you can see when you review our Fall/Winter 2009-2010 guide, your Parks and Recreation Department offers a variety of programs and services to meet the recreational needs of the youth and adults in the community. I, as well as my staff, encourage you to take the opportunity to “get off the couch” and become active!

Why? – as you ask yourself that question, consider all the well documented personal benefits of parks and recreation. To focus on a few, consider the following:

People who engage in regular physical activity benefit from reduced risk of coronary health disease, improved maintenance of muscular strength, joint structure and function, weight loss – it is a good health insurance plan.

Physically active individuals have lower annual direct medical costs than inactive people.

Overweight and obesity are epidemic problems across the country. Research has shown that regular physical activity improves one’s ability to control and maintain a healthy weight.

Physical activity has shown to reduce anxiety, stress and depression

Recreation programs build leadership and enhance self esteem in youth...And the benefits continue.

Also, if you have not been to visit the Community Recreation Center recently, I would encourage you to come see some of the changes. In addition to improvements to the swimming pool, gymnasium and locker rooms, we have added new weight and cardio equipment to better meet your exercise needs.

So as the weather cools, the snow begins to fall, refer to this handy guide as a reminder of what is happening in our community. Sign up for a class, share it with a friend, or make a new acquaintance. Here’s another wonderful season with the Pocatello Parks and Recreation Department – providing life enhancing experiences and promoting a healthy community.

Sincerely,
Jerry Sepich, CPRP
Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Pocatello