Passing the Torch
Happy November everyone!
GRATITUDE is the theme this month and it perfectly reflects the feelings of the entire Board of Directors as we watch the passing of the torch—both with our City partners and within our organization. We are celebrating the outstanding work and efforts of three exceptional people who have played fundamental roles in the establishment and success of the Redding Parks & Trails Foundation. At the same time, we are excited to introduce you to three very talented individuals who will be stepping into their shoes! Legacies are meeting the future, and both are shining bright!
Seismic Shift in Our City Partners: Kim Niemer Passes the Torch!
In 2017, Kim founded the Redding Parks & Trails Foundation and has worked closely with the Board over the past seven years. At the end of October, she retired from her 27-year career with the City of Redding, 23 years as Director of Community Services. Kim leaves an incredible legacy in our community. Her vision for developing a vibrant, thriving system of parks, trails, and open spaces was instrumental in getting so many large and small projects not only off the ground but completed—resulting in a healthier, more accessible, and sustainable community for everyone. Her determination to build a collaborative spirit across public-private entities has resulted in major improvements in park, trail, and open space infrastructure AND partnerships that will continue to enrich our community for years to come.
Often parks, trails, and open spaces are underfunded in City budgets and/or are cut first when revenue tightens. The Redding Parks & Trails Foundation was part of Kim’s long-term vision to help fund parks, trails, and open space projects, both those that were part of the City’s Parks and Recreation Division AND those that were community-initiated. Her vision proved to be successful. In six years (two of which were limited by the pandemic), the Foundation has raised over $80,000 in direct funding for five different local park, trail, or open space projects!
Travis Menne Is Ready to Step Up!
Travis Menne was picked to succeed Kim as the Director of Community Services. He has worked closely with Kim over the past seven years as the Senior Projects Coordinator. In this role, he has also worked closely with the Foundation, and we are extremely excited to work with him moving forward! Travis brings a wide-ranging skill set as well as a strong passion for parks, trails, and open spaces and making our community better for everyone!
Travis landed in Redding early in life and graduated from high school here before leaving for college. Menne obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in History from California State University, Chico, and a Master’s Degree in Public History from California State University, Sacramento. He returned to Redding after completing graduate school. He spent a little over a decade in construction, including several national parks: Yosemite, Crater Lake, Fort Vancouver, and the Lewis & Clark National Monument. Those opportunities gave him a segue into the parks world and cemented his love for beautiful, treasured public spaces. The Foundation is extremely proud of him AND excited about moving into the future with him!
RPTF Board of Directors Celebrate Past & Future Members!
The Foundation is facing our first major transition in the makeup of our Board of Directors since our founding, and we are both grateful for what has been and excited for a future with new opportunities and relationships!
We are extremely grateful for the efforts, enthusiasm, and expertise of two exceptional people, Linda Masterson and John Deaton, both of whom have served on the Foundation Board since its formation in 2017. Both Linda and John are passionate about our parks, trails, and open spaces and are dedicated to making our community better!
Linda Masterson served as President from 2017 until 2020 and has continued in different roles as a Board member for the last 3 years. She has been a vital, tireless member of the Foundation whose attention to detail and ability to collaborate and organize has been key to our success and the establishment of important partnerships and relationships.
John Deaton served as our Secretary since 2017. His energy and enthusiasm for his role have made all aspects of running the Foundation run smoothly. The Foundation has greatly benefitted from his attention to detail and organizational skills as well as his willingness to do whatever was needed with a smile!
New Board Members Are Passionate Park, Trail & Open Space Advocates!
The Foundation is VERY excited to welcome two new Board Members, Ernest Wilson and Patty Shackleton, both of whom bring depths of knowledge and a wide range of experience!
Ernest Wilson is a local small business owner and consultant in the heavy civil construction industry. He holds a BA in Business Administration and has a wealth of knowledge of construction, contracts, budgeting, efficiently executing tasks, and meeting deadlines. Ernest says he looks forward to being part of something that improves the quality of life in our community and attracts visitors to support our local economy.
Patty Shackleton holds a BS in Nursing and a Masters in both Public Health and Health Education. She served as a program manager and policy analyst for the U.S. Army Medical Department. She is an avid cyclist and trail runner and has been involved in local policy discussions and events supporting cycling trends, safety concerns, and future planning for non-vehicle mobility. Patty says she is excited to work toward making our community a trail and recreation destination for visitors and residents alike!
Enjoy this season of gratitude!
November Community Offerings
Redding’s Garden of Lights Set to Delight!
This magical family event returns to the Turtle Bay Arboretum! Opening November 17 through January 7.
Redding’s Turkey Trot: Thursday, November 23rd
Thanksgiving just isn’t Thanksgiving without walking or running in the annual Turkey Trot! Grab friends, coworkers, or family and support this fun and festive community event!
North State Giving Tuesday Offers Opportunity to Give Where You Live!
Join the North State community on Tuesday, November 28, from 6 am to 8 pm! Early Giving starts November 14!
Check out the 2023 Redding Parks & Trails Foundation “Bridge the Gap” Campaign HERE.
