YORK, Neb. (KLKN) — With summer break here, many are ready to beat the heat at a community pool.
“It’s always like the birthday party for the community,” said Cheree Folts, director of the York Parks and Recreation Department. “They circle it on their calendars.”

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The Nebraska Youth Track & Field Meet, presented by the Nebraska Recreation & Park Association, York Parks & Recreation, Crouch Recreation, and York High and Middle  School Track Teams had 181 participants at York High School’s Yowell Track on Friday,  May 9, 2025. The top 4 finishers in each event will advance to the Nebraska Youth Track & Field Meet Championship held at Hastings, NE on Saturday, June 7, 2025. Results of the  meet are as follows.  

8-9 Girls 
Standing Long Jump:  
1. Brooke Thies, Clarks, 6’ 8.25” 
2. Lakeyn Burks, York, 6’ 3” 
3. Tori Kaliff, York, 5’ 10” 
4. Ruby Clark, McCool Jct., 5’ 7” 
Softball Throw:  
1. Riley Clark, McCool Jct., 64’ 10” 
2. Bristol Quiring, Bradshaw, 61’ 6” 
3. Kree Jensen, Shelby, 62’ 6” 
4. Madalyn Ditloff, Bradshaw, 51’ 10” 
400 Meter Dash:  
1. Ruby Clark, McCool Jct., 1:21 
2. Brinley Wit, Chester, 1:27 
3. Maggie Schlautman, Henderson, 1:35 
4. Shiloh Carver, York, 1:37 
200 Meter Dash:  
1. Lakeyn Burks, York, 34.46 
2. Scarlett Andrews, York, 3.53 
3. Brooke Thies, Clarks, 35.80 
4. Ruby Clark, McCool Jct., 36.79 
100 Meter Dash:  
1. Lakeyn Burks, York, 16.07 
2. Brooke Thies, Clarks, 16.47 
T3.Tori Kaliff, York, 16.52 
Scarlett Andrews, York, 16.52 
50 Meter Dash:  
1. Scout Arduser, McCool Jct., 8.28 
2. Tori Kaliff, York, 8.66 
3. Paityn Sehi, York, 8.72 
4. Quinnley Scott, Aurora, 8.94 
4x100 Meter Relay:  
1. Shiloh Carver, Ruby Clark, Scout Arduser, Riley Clark, McCool Jct., 1:14.00 2. Adalyn Larkin, Clair Grant, Tori Kaliff, Za’Miah Ulrich, York., 1:22.58 

8-9 Boys 
Standing Long Jump:  
1. Brody Maronde, York, 6’ 5” 
2. Beckem Van Pelt, Hordville, 6’ 1.25” 
3. Tanner Heberlee, York, 6’ .75” 
4. Luke Gralheer, York, 6’  
Softball Throw:  
1. Gage Colburn, York, 112’ 9”
2. Micah Escher, York, 111’ 4” 
3. Rhett Kaliff, McCool Jct., 90’ 7” 
4. Hank Luzum, Aurora, 85’ 7” 
400 Meter Dash:  
1. Brody Maronde, York, 1:17 
2. Bronson Arendt, Aurora, 1:21 
3. Hank Luzum, Aurora, 1:26 
4. Zayden Riner, Clarks, 1:29 
200 Meter Dash: 
1. Boone Glasser, Polk, 35.27 
2. Hank Luzum, Aurora, 37.50 
3. Ezra Lindgreen, Central City, 38.99 
4. Halen Fowler, York, 39.47  
100 Meter Dash:  
1. Gage Colburn, York, 16.57 
2. Tanner Heberlee, York, 16.75 
3. Brody Maronde, York, 16.87 
4. Boone Glasser, Polk, 17.25 
50 Meter Dash:  
1. Gage Colburn, York, 8.23 
2. Luke Gralheer, York, 8.29 
3. Tanner Heberlee, York, 8.30 
4. Beckem Van Pelt, Hordville, 8.50 
4x100 Meter Relay: 
1. Gage Colburn, Micah Escher, Tanner Heberlee, Aaron Batterton, York, 1:11.66 2. Boone Glasser, Zayden Riner, Zebadiah Johannes, Beckem Van Pelt, Polk, 1:11.90 3. Hudson McKenzie, Bode Schneider, Rhett Kaliff, Haylen Fowler, York, 1:17.66 

10-11 Girls 
Standing Long Jump:  
1. June Colburn, York, 6’ 9” 
2. Emery Scott, Aurora, 6’ 6” 
3. Taylee Aspegren, York, 6’ 4.5” 
4. Evelyn Christy, Osceola, 6’ 3.5” 
Softball Throw:  
1. Kaiylen Baloun, Shelby, 119.6 
2. Sutton Van Pelt, Hordville, 117.5 
3. Emery Scott, Aurora, 103.6 
4. Leigh-Maree Storm, Clarks, 96.6 
800 Meter Run:  
1. Emery Scott, Aurora, 3:16 
2. Lydia High, Aurora, 3:19 
3. Easton Siebert, Henderson, 3:26 
4. Aylah Mierau, York, 3:43 
400 Meter Dash:  
1. Jordi Wit, Hebron, 1:15 
2. June Colburn, York, 1:17 
3. Lydia High, Aurora, 1:19 
4. Lillian Wit, Chester, 1:21
200 Meter Dash:  
1. Jordi Wit, Hebron, 33.24 
2. Leigh-Maree Storm, Clarks, 33.54 
3. Evelyn Christy, Osceola, 34.18 
4. Sarah Carnes, Osceola, 35.14 
100 Meter Dash:  
1. June Colburn, York, 15.78 
2. Makena Gardner, York, 15.90 
3. Leigh-Maree Storm, Clarks, 15.94 
4.Taylee Aspegren, York, 16.04 
4x100 Meter Relay:  
1. Regan Meyer, Autry Person, Sutton Van Pelt, Leigh Storm, Hordville, 1:09 2. Riley Kaliff, Zoey Winterrowd, Molly Hoffman, Avery McManigal, York, 1:10 3. Kobee Kern, Jenson Makovicka, Paityn Sehi, Lakyn Burks, York, 1:10.55 4. Makena Gardner, Taylee Aspegren, Corianna Gillespie, Gabbi Gulbrandson, York,  1:11 

10-11 Boys 
Standing Long Jump:  
1. Rhykin Fuhrman, Clarks, 6’ 8.5” 
2. Eli Lindgreen, Central City, 6’ 5” 
3. Blaise McDonald, McCool jct., 6’ 5” 
4. Kord Edwards, Clarks, 6’ 5” 
Softball Throw:  
1. Josiah Escher, York, 130’ 9” 
2. Beau Edwards, Clarks, 125’ 9” 
3. Barrett White, McCool Jct., 120’ 0” 
4. Cameron Jacobsen, York, 113’ 8” 
800 Meter Run: 
1. Dawson Gerken, McCool Jct., 3:00.15 
2. Beau Thies, Clarks, 3:04 
3. Barrett White, McCool Jct., 3:06 
4. Eli Lindgreen, Central City, 3:12 
400 Meter Dash:  
1. Noah Carlson, Clarks, 1:12 
 2. Jentry Wit, Hebron, 1:12.44 
3.Barrett White, McCool Jct., 1:12.84 
4.Lane Rawhouser, Marquette, 1:13 
200 Meter Dash:  
1. Grady Glause, Benedict, 32.91 
2. Jentry Wit, Hebron, 33.75 
3. Trindon Wit, Chester, 33.76 
4. Noah Carlson, Clarks, 33.77 
100 Meter Dash:  
1. Grady Glause, Benedict, 15.11 
T2.Lane Rawhouser, Marquette, 15.14 
Trindon Wit, Chester, 15.14 
4.Rhykin Fuhrman, Clarks, 15.25 
4x100 Meter Relay
1. Bronson Arendt, Hudson Schaffer, Nash Griess, Lane Rawhouser, Aurora, 1:06 2. Beau Thies, Eli Lindgreen, Cruze Peterson, Kord Edwards, Clarks, 1:08 3. Grady Glause, Tragen Bowman, Jackson Phillips, Brock Cheek, Stromsburg, 1:08.55 4. Dawson Gerken, Kason Smith, Blaise McDonald, Cameron Jacobsen, McCool Jct.,  1:09.60 

12-13 Girls 
Running Long Jump: 
1. Bria Kaliff, York, 12’ 6” 
2. Ryan Chrisman, York, 12’ 3” 
3. Hayden Glasser, Polk, 11’ 11” 
4. Eve Sands, Marquette, 11’ 8” 
Softball Throw:  
1. Keila Kohout, York, 135’ 11’ 
2. Paisyn Edwards, Clarks, 129’ 3” 
3. Bryn Peters, Aurora, 113’ 7” 
4. Kimber Majerus, Central City, 103’ 2” 
1600 Meter Run:  
1. Eve Sands, Marquette, 6.57.40 
2. Sophie Schlautman, Henderson, 7.04.43 
800 Meter Run:  
1. Rosemary Kraeger, Waco, 3:07 
200 Meter Dash: 
1. Sloan Steckman, York, 30.56 
2. Hayden Glasser, Polk, 31.77 
3. Ryah Chrisman, York, 31.98 
4. Keila Kohout, York, 32.95 
100 Meter Dash:  
1. Ryah Chrisman, York, 14.55 
2. Sloan Steckman, York, 14.62 
3. Hayden Glasser, Polk, 14.82 
4. Bria Kaliff, York, 14.99 
4x100 Meter Relay: 
1. Ryah Chrisman, Keila Kohout, Bria Kaliff, Sloan Steckman, York, 1:00.00 2. Brenna Yockey, Emery Scott, Eve Sands, Lydia High, Aurora, 1:06.00 3. Emma Peterson, Evelyn Christy, Sarah Carnes, Kaiylen Baloun, Osceola, 1:06.20 
4. Paisyn Edwards, Kinley Meyer, Hayden Glasser, Kimber Majerus, Polk, 1:06.64 

12-13 Boys 
Running Long Jump:  
1. Kyler Clark, McCool Jct., 12’ 2” 
2. Kale Loosvelt, York, 11’ 11” 
3. Zander Martin, Benedict, 11’ 8” 
4. Liam Kelly, York, 11’ 8” 
Softball Throw:  
1. Kale Loosvelt, York, 138’ 8”
2. Liam Kelly, York, 135’ 10” 
3. Theodore Kavan, York, 111’ 7’ 4. Barrett Hanquist, Clarks, 100’ 2” 1600 Meter Run 
1. Joe Luzum, Aurora, 6.24.66 2. Alaric Frey, Central City, 7.01.53 800 Meter Run: 
1. Zander Martin, Benedict, 2:45 2. Behrett DeRiese, York, 2:46 3. Brody Clark, McCool Jct., 2:50 4. Joe Luzum, Aurora, 2:56 
200 Meter Dash:  
1. Kyler Clark, McCool Jct., 30.14 2. Gavin Brown, Polk, 33.48 
3. Behrett DeRiese, York, 35.05 4. Reid Seaberg, York, 37.41 
100 Meter Dash:  
1. Kyler Clark, McCool Jct., 14.09 2. Liam Kelly, York, 15.22 
3. Corbin Mattox, Clarks, 15.24 4. Kale Loosvelt, York, 16.15​

YORK – Arbor Day was celebrated at East Hill Park by city officials, tree experts and St. Joseph’s fourth graders Friday morning.

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By Melanie Wilkinson

YORK – Cheree Folts, director of York Parks and Recreation, has announced the launch of the QR Fit Trail, a state-of-the-art fitness amenity now available along the Beaver Creek Trail.

“This new feature combines outdoor fitness with modern technology, creating an engaging and accessible workout experience for residents and visitors alike,” Folts explained.

“The QR Fit Trail, starting at Post 52 (right next to the tennis courts) and continuing through key points at Posts 48, 37, 28, 17 and 4, offers a series of fitness stations equipped with QR codes that can be scanned using a smartphone,” she said. “Each QR code links to short, easy-to-follow exercise videos designed for users of all fitness levels, making it easier than ever to engage in a dynamic workout while enjoying the natural beauty of Beaver Creek Trail.

“Whether you’re a beginner looking to get started on your fitness journey, or an experienced athlete seeking a challenging workout, the QR Fit Trail has something for everyone. From cardio exercises to strength training, each station features a different activity and users can follow along at their own pace,” Folts said.

Here’s how it works:
Scan the QR Code: Each fitness station along Beaver Creek Trail is clearly marked with a QR code.
Follow the video instructions: Scan the QR code using your smartphone, and watch a short video which demonstrates the exercise at that station.
Work out: Perform the exercise at your own pace and enjoy the benefits of a full-body workout.
Track your progress: You can repeat the circuit or try different exercises at each station, creating a customized workout that suits your needs.
“We are thrilled to offer the QR Fit Trail as a fun and innovative way for individuals to stay active while exploring the outdoors,” Folts said. “This new amenity encourages people of all ages to engage in physical activity, whether they are looking to build strength, increase flexibility, or simply enjoy a walk in nature. The QR Fit Trail combines technology and fitness in a unique way that we hope will inspire our community to live healthier lives.”

The QR Fit Trail is free to use. All fitness levels are welcome and no special equipment is required beyond a smartphone. For more information about the QR Fit Trail and other park amenities, visit www.yorkparksandrec.com

Originally posted here: ​https://justmelaniew.com/2024/12/20/new-qr-fit-amenity-available-on-beaver-creek-trail-in-york/

Download the PDF containing detailed stats and data: 23-24.PDF

THE NEBRASKA RECREATION AND PARK ASSOCIATION recognizes the desirability of honoring its members, citizens, and organizations in the state that have rendered outstanding service to the park, recreation, and conservation movement. 

THIS DEDICATED PROFESSIONAL has been employed with the City of York and a member of NeRPA since 2022. It is my pleasure to present this award nomination for an outstanding professional who has truly transformed a good situation into something great. From our very first meeting, there was curiosity about whether this young professional would have what it takes to maintain and evaluate the work already being done. Any doubts quickly faded as he consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence and a vision for what could be achieved. 

Not only has he been proactive in advancing his education, skills, and abilities, but he has also applied these traits effectively within his department, turning it into one of the shining stars in the state of Nebraska. His dedication to his community is evident, and he takes great pride in his work. Beyond his professional duties, he enjoys staying active in the community he serves, participating in activities such as golf, softball, and kickball.

Though his career and membership in the organization are still in the early stages, it is clear that he is on a path to becoming a great leader. As a professional in the turf management industry, he is committed to ongoing development and growth, which will undoubtedly benefit the professionals and organizations he interacts with. Recently, he and his team took the initiative to meet with professionals from the City of Lincon, not only taking time out of their busy schedules to demonstrate equipment, but also going above and beyond by providing detailed explanations of how the equipment could be utilized in their community. 

This professional’s educational background includes a degree from Fort Hays Stat University. He is currently enhancing his expertise by pursing a Sports Turf Manager certificate. His dedication to his field is further demonstrated by his active membership in several industry associations, including the Sports Turf Managers Association, the Nebraska Turfgrass Association, and the Sports Field Management Association. 

In a leadership capacity, he serves as the direct supervisor of one full-time employee and oversees approximately 16 seasonal workers. His work history reflects significant responsibility; he was hired as the York Ballpark Complex Maintenance Supervisor in the summer of 2022, where he took charge of maintaining, coordinating, and staffing all maintenance aspects of the complex. By the fall of 2023, his role expanded to include the Soccer Complex, making him the Complexes Maintenance Supervisor, responsible for the upkeep and operations of two major facilities. 

Beyond his professional achievements, he is also an accomplished bowler and golfer, with a deep passion for broadcasting. His talent in broadcasting was recognized with elite awards during his time at Fort Hays State University.

Please join me in congratulating the York Parks & Recreation Complexes Maintenance Supervisor, David Pratt, on being honored with the NePRA New Professional Award.
​
BECAUSE OF HIS PROFESSIONALISM, consistent outstanding job performance, and passion for the field of Parks and Recreation, the 2024 New Professional Award is given to David Pratt on this 19th day of September 2024.

​

​Thanks to the Ten Free Trees program, an effort of the Nebraska Forest Service and the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum, York Parks and Recreation received ten trees for the Parks. 

York’s Park Department has been proactive in the fight against the Emerald Ash Borer and is now including the fight against the Pine Wilt and Blight.  As well as, the recent tree damage from the 2022 hail storms and previous winter conditions.  YPR is gracious for this opportunity to plant new trees for our parks system. 

Despite providing a wide range of social, economic, and environmental benefits, most Nebraska community forests have been in steady and sometimes dramatic decline. Many challenges contribute, including extreme weather, insects, disease, and lack of diversity. The Emerald Ash borer is the latest major challenge added to the list.  

In an effort to stop this decline and increase community forest resilience, the Ten Free Trees program grants up to 10 high quality trees per project for tree-related educational events and community celebrations promoting trees and fall planting. 

In addition to simply planting more trees, the program goals include increasing appreciation and awareness of the significant value of community forests in Nebraska. Special emphasis is placed on species diversity and higher impact projects, especially street tree planting and projects in neighborhoods of highest need. 

Ten Free Trees is supported by the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum’s Trees for Nebraska Towns Initiative, funded by the Nebraska Environmental Trust, the USDA Forest Service’s Community Forestry Inflation Reduction Act funding received by the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum, and the USDA Forest Service Landscape Scale Restoration funding received by the Nebraska Forest Service.

As part of their community outreach program, a group from CommonSpirit Health gathered in York on Friday morning to clean up Beaver Creek Trail.  These members represent people from Illinois, Iowa, Omaha and Kearney.  

A calling that defines and unites
At CommonSpirit Health, we passionately care for the most vulnerable, relentlessly innovate how and where healing can happen and believe in uniting to benefit the common good. Our expansive network spans diverse communities, uniquely positioning us to meet their changing needs, improve population health and help chart the path to health equity.

Our mission, vision and values inform every aspect of our work each day and remind us that we serve our patients, their families, our communities – and each other. Our community health, research and home health programs help us address the primary barriers to healthier communities.

Our mission
As CommonSpirit Health, we make the healing presence of God known in our world by improving the health of the people we serve, especially those who are vulnerable, while we advance social justice for all.

Our vision
A healthier future for all – inspired by faith, driven by innovation and powered by our humanity.

Our values
Compassion | Inclusion | Integrity | Excellence | Collaboration

​The Levitt Stadium turf project is approaching completion! 
 
Once completed the city of York will provide an open house opportunity for the community to experience and see the project first hand.  This date will be within the next 2-3 weeks. 
 
Soon York High School and York Middle School football, youth football and York University baseball will begin their first season on this new playing surface!
 
We are excited to offer a year-round playing surface for all our users.