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HAS IT REALLY BEEN THAT LONG?
FOR IMMEDIATE USE NOVEMBER 22, 2013 MEDIA CONTACT: Mary Priller, Marketing Specialist, 847-388-5455, mpriller@mundeleinparks.org ‘HAS IT REALLY BEEN THAT LONG?’ Park district staff mark milestones with humor, success and gratitude for community Mundelein, IL-- "Has it really been that long? This was only going to be temporary," said Rita Kipp, Superintendent of Recreation for Mundelein Park & Recreation District (MPRD) (www.mundeleinparks.org) when asked about her years of service. Yes, it has been 30 years since she joined MPRD. Funny how things have a way of working themselves out -- in a great way for the Park District and the community. Rita Kipp, then known as Rita Gordon, and fellow employee Debi Bernardi, are celebrating milestones with the Park District. Kipp, 30 years, and Bernardi, 20. That’s 50 years of combined service -- such great contributions. During those years, there have countless experiences that both have helped mold and share, some with humor, and lots of gratitude for the community, from their perspective and MPRD. Kipp for example, who grew up in Mundelein, began her career in 1983, as an Athletic Supervisor, in what was to be a "temporary" position. No one knows exactly what was meant by "temporary," whether Kipp’s idea or the position’s scope. But both Kipp and the Park District soon learned that this was a "good fit." Kipp had already enjoyed lending her skills as a Day Camp Counselor while completing her degree at Lake Forest College. She excelled in her roles, and time flew by. Now, as MPRD’s Superintendent of Recreation and a Certified Park & Recreation Professional, countless residents and visitors of all ages have benefited -- with her as a positive role model, mentor and community liaison. Kipp credits her success from the support of her family, her community and from her mentor, Nancy Burton, Director of Wauconda Park District and former Superintendent at MPRD. When asked to recall her favorite experience in her career, Kipp replied, "It’s the people; the community and co-workers. Being involved with all of them, all the support. It has helped shape who I am and allowed me to share my skills. When you enjoy what you do, the years just fly. I am so honored to be a part of the community and Mundelein Park District." Beyond MPRD, Kipp continues her joy of life and service. Her and her husband, Ed, former Mundelein Police Department Lieutenant, volunteer, take to golf, bike riding, and spending time with family, friends and their two pets, Cody and KC. Kipp’s positive influence and long tenure has carried over to one of her own hires, Debi Bernardi. Bernardi, a Mundelein resident, now a 20-year "veteran," joined MPRD in 1993 as a Registrar and supporting the little-known then area of computers. Bernardi’s role and responsibilities have grown over the years as has the entire field of IT. She has served as Computer Systems Manager, Computer Specialist, Database Administrator and Applications Support. Her expertise has helped bring MPRD into the digital arena and allowed residents and guests to enjoy such conveniences as online program registration. Bernardi enjoys time with her husband, Luigi, and their dogs, Charlie and Vinny. She will celebrate her years of service by retiring in January. Mundelein Park & Recreation District will mark its own milestone in 2014, celebrating 60 years (1954-2014) as a community partner. Kicking off the festivities will be a special anniversary logo, a tree, symbolizing nature, longevity, and "branches" connecting to the community. During summertime, you can play "60 Minutes in the Parks," with a game piece giving 10 clues and 10 parks. Matching clues gains prizes. Plus, imagineers and those who enjoy photos can take part in the "Picture This" contest beginning in January. It will feature close-up photos that you will need to identify for prizes. Details of the anniversary and planned activities will be posted online in mid-December at www.mundeleinparks.org. For more information on Mundelein Park & Recreation District, programs, special events, activities, or ways you can volunteer and get involved, visit www.mundeleinparks.org, call 847-566-0650, "like" us on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter. # # # Editor’s note: Shown in the photo: Debi Bernard (l.) celebrating 20 years, Margaret Resnick (c.), Director, Mundelein Park & Recreation District, and Rita Kipp (r.), celebrating 30 years. |
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