2019 CO N F E R E N C E G U I D E
82ND ANNUAL
MRPA Annual Conference & Exhibit Hall NOVEMBER 5-8, 2019
Earle Brown Heritage Center • Brooklyn Center, MN
MRPA Annual Conference 2019 Welcome to the 82nd annual Minnesota Recreation and Park Association Annual Conference in Brooklyn Center. The conference committee has been hard at work to provide delegates, students, retirees, and associates a unique pre-conference session, engaging education opportunities, and exciting off-site tours of some of the area’s new and unique park facilities. This conference will offer valuable networking events and the chance to meet a variety of vendors during the exhibit hall. We extend sincere gratitude to our conference sponsors and partners, as well as to the Annual Conference Committee for helping to make the 2019 MRPA Annual Conference a great success. Thanks to all of you for joining us for a conference filled with locally grown talent and resources, and seeds of information you can bring back to help your community grow. Jessie Koch, Kelly Mertes, and Paul Pearson 2019 Annual Conference Co-Chairs
2019 MRPA Annual Conference Committee The Annual Conference Committee chairs and their committees have organized an excellent education opportunity for all of the delegates. This conference would not be possible without their time and dedication. Conference Co-Chairs Jessie Koch Kelly Mertes Paul Pearson Program Committee Reed Smidt Nate Monahan Bridget Lindeman Ryan Gunderson Scott Heitkamp Jenna Smith
Exhibit Hall Committee Carrie Anderson Greg Simmons
Volunteer Committee Lisa Abernathy Margo Numedahl
Catering & Networking Events Committee Angie Dehn Tanya Mozingo
Sponsorship Committee Michelle Margo
Logistics Committee Scott Berggren Aaron Thelen Ryan Parks JJ Williams
Thank You 2019 Sponsors!* Thank you to these MRPA Annual Conference sponsors for making this event possible:
Marketing Committee Todd Pernsteiner Libby Renslo
Formerly 2nd Wind Exercise Equipment
Tweet while at the conference using:
#mrpaconference2019
2 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org
*As of press time.
Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019
Schedule At-A-Glance
Tuesday, November 5
Tuesday, November 5
Pre-Conference Institute
Registration Check-In......... 12:30 - 3:30 p.m. Pre-Conference Institute................1 - 4 p.m.
12:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Wednesday, November 6
1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Registration Check-In................8 - 8:30 a.m. Welcome & Opening Keynote............... 8:30 - 10:15 a.m. Educational Sessions.........10:30 - 11:45 a.m. Lunch.............................. 11:45 a.m. - 1 p.m. Exhibit Hall...................................1 - 4 p.m. Networking Event........................ 4 - 6 p.m.
Thursday, November 7 Registration Check-In ...............8 - 8:30 a.m. Educational Sessions........... 8:30 - 9:45 a.m. Off-Site Institute...................... 8:30 - 11 a.m. Educational Sessions...............10 - 11:15 a.m. Lunch........................11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Educational Sessions.............. 12:45 - 2 p.m. Off-Site Institutes............... 12:30 - 2:45 p.m. Educational Speed Sessions...... 2:15 - 3 p.m. Afternoon Keynote...............3:15 - 4:30 p.m.
Friday, November 8 Registration Check-In................8 - 8:30 a.m. Closing Keynote.................. 8:30 - 9:45 a.m. Educational Sessions...............10 - 11:15 a.m. Educational Sessions...11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Sponsored by SRF Consulting Group
Registration Check-In
Nature Play Areas – Breaking Barriers, Building Support, Creating Connections! ROOM: CAPTAIN’S
Chris Smith, Attorney, League of Minnesota Cities; Ann Walther, Attorney, MPRB Counsel, Rice, Michels & Walther, LLP; MaryLynn Pulscher, Environmental Education Manager, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board; Crystal Passi, Landscape Architect, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board; Ken Grieshaber, PLA, Principal, SRF Consulting Group, Inc.; Jody Yungers, Director of Recreation & Parks, City of Brooklyn Park; Jen Gillard, Recreation Program Supervisor, City of Brooklyn Park; Allison Quinn, Minneapolis Nature Pre-School In recent years, research has clearly shown, and the parks and recreation field has come to understand, that children’s unstructured, naturebased play has many physical, social, emotional, and cognitive benefits. These benefits contribute to the overall healthy development of a child. While the industry is still trying to develop a set of best practices for the creation of nature play spaces, there is an emerging set of principles and practices that can provide some guidance for public institutions and agencies in getting beyond the concerns of risk managers in development of these important nature play spaces. These emerging practices are not scientifically proven, absolute, or etched in
stone; rather, they represent best judgment and analysis, based on the recent experiences of fellow professionals. The bottom line: children need risk. It is a powerful catalyst for growth that helps them develop good judgment, persistence, courage, resiliency, and self-confidence.
Young Professional and Student Network (YPSN) Resource Center Stop by the YPSN Resource Center during the exhibit hall to receive coaching, tools, and resources to be successful in your job search. Professionals will be on-site to critique resumes and portfolios, provide guidance to effectively answer supplemental questions, conduct mock interviews, and offer general advice and networking to help young applicants gain employment in the recreation field.
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Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019
Wednesday, November 6 8:00 – 8:30 a.m. Registration / Continental Breakfast
8:30 – 10:15 a.m.
Welcome & Opening Keynote
Carrie Tollefson: Getting After Life ROOM: GARDEN CITY
Sponsored by Hiway Federal Credit Union
10:30 – 11:45 a.m.
3, 2, 1 Network ROOM: CAPTAIN’S
Speakers: Seasoned MRPA Professionals Welcome to speed networking – a whirlwind session offering students the opportunity to network with recreation professionals from a variety of backgrounds. Be prepared to discuss your career interests quickly and efficiently, show-off portfolios, get feedback on your resume/cover letter, and ask questions.
How to Run a Successful Medallion Hunt! ROOM: HARVEST B
Jerome Krieger, Recreation Manager, Blaine Parks and Recreation Learn from Minnesota native and Olympic athlete, Carrie Tollefson, how to manage running circles on the track and through your day-to-day life. Carrie won five individual NCAA championships and was a member of the 1999 NCAA Cross-Country Championship team. In 1998, Carrie was named NCAA indoor track athlete of the year and was the first person in NCAA history to win both the 3k and 5k. As an Olympian and three-time national champion, she lives and trains in her home state of Minnesota, where she hopes to encourage and motivate the next generation.
Learn tips and tricks to facilitate a successful medallion hunt and gain knowledge from a former finder of the Saint Paul Winter Carnival Medallion Hunt!
Directors’ Forum ROOM: HARVEST C
For Agency Parks & Rec Directors Sponsored by HKGi
Data Practices for Parks and Recreation ROOM: TACK B
Jennifer Fink, Director, New Brighton Parks and Recreation; Terri Spangrud, City Clerk, City of New Brighton Learn best practices for data retention and destruction from someone who helps the state craft the guidelines. Save yourself from future trouble and headaches.
How Do You TACKLE Customer Interactions? ROOM: HARVEST A
Iris Pahlberg-Peterson, Customer Service Supervisor, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board; Annie Olson, Customer Service Director, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board As locally grown as the walleye is to our state, so are the experiences unique to us in Minnesota parks. We all seek “The Good Life,” exactly what we provide through parks and recreation! Join us to TACKLE interactions with customers, HOOK them in, and RELEASE them as lifelong park patrons.
11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Lunch / Student Lunch and MRPF Student Scholarship Presentations ROOM: GARDEN CITY ROOM
Directors will come together to discuss trends and share new ideas. Information will also be presented regarding National Recreation and Park Association’s Park Metric, and Trust for Public Lands’ partnership benefits.
The Proof is in the Paper ROOM: TACK A
Matt Haynes, Aquatic Product Manager, American Red Cross
Photo: Runner’s World
Examine documents and signs essential to the safety of your facility. Do they need updating? Should they be posted? Are they clear and consistent with the latest industry trends and regulations? This interactive session is designed to help ensure the right message reaches your patrons and staff in a clear and concise manner.
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Sponsored by Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation
Networking Event 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. ROOM: GARDEN CITY ROOM
Challenge your fellow recreation professionals in a game-show themed social with Sassy Lassy Events! Enjoy networking, an opportunity to play a few games, delicious appetizers and a cash bar for your choice of beverage. Sponsored by Musco Sports-Lighting
Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019
Minnesota Recreation and Park Association Annual Conference Exhibit Hall
Conference Facility Map November 6, 2019 * 1 to 4 p.m. Earle Brown Heritage Center 6155 Earle Brown Drive Brooklyn Center, MN 55430
LOUNGE RESTAURANT BUSINESS CENTER ENTRANCE
SUNROOM
ENTRANCE
EARLE (FIRST FLOOR) GWEN (SECOND FLOOR)
Brd Rm
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BELLEVUE
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Wednesday, November 6
GRANDVIEW
Exhibit Hall
HOTEL
1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
"D-BARN"
• Visit with more than 70 exhibitors
FOUNTAIN
GARDEN CITY BALLROOM PATIO
Enclosed Walkway
• Gain new ideas related to the newest technology, products, services, equipment and programs
ENTRANCE
Pre-function FOUNTAIN
• Hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, and prizes
LOFT (2nd FLOOR)
TACK ROOM A & B (LOWER LEVEL) MORGAN (LOWER LEVEL)
Pre-function CAPTAINS
Please take time to visit the exhibit hall vendors as their contributions are integral to the conference’s success.
CARRIAGE HALL
PRE-FUNCTION
MRPA Exhibit Hall A
Loading Dock
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ADMINISTRATION OFFICE
B
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ENTRANCE
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Registration Check-In Desk
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HARVEST ROOM
PARKING
Sponsored by St. Croix Recreation
PARKING
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MRPF Silent Auction & Interactive Experiences
MINNESOTA Recreation Recreation and and Parks Parks •• www.mnrpa.org www.mnrpa.org 55 MINNESOTA
2019 Exhibitors
ACTIVE Network....................................... 64 AIM Electronics / Daktronics........................ 4 AIM Electronics provides sales/service for Daktronic scoreboards, video, sound, and electronic sign systems in Minnesota. American Ramp Company.......................... 46 Skatepark and bike park planning, design, and build for public community parks. Anderson Race Management..................... 68 Anderson Race Management provides logistics, timing, promotional and rental services to running, walking, biking, and cross country skiing events throughout the Midwest. Becker Arena Products, Inc........................ 29 Becker Arena Products, Inc. a manufacturer of hockey and recreational dasher boards and other ice rink products for indoor/outdoor facilities and parks. We provide project development assistance, operational products, solutions and resources through our Sourcewell Purchasing Contract #030117-BAP. Bituminous Roadways,Inc.......................... 38 Bituminous Roadways is your preferred pavement partner for repairing and maintaining your asphalt parking lots, trails, and outdoor athletic surfaces including basketball, pickleball, and tennis courts. Bolton & Menk, Inc................................... 67 Bolton & Menk, Inc. specializes in providing public infrastructure solutions. We take care of our clients by providing quality services and the right solutions for their needs. With 18 locations throughout the Upper Midwest, we’re local. Broadway Awards.....................................19 Broadway Awards specializes in recognition and promotion. We offer awards. Plaques, acrylics, trophies, medals, ribbons, promotional products including pens, mugs, bags, and so much more. Broyhill Inc.............................................. 20 Refuse vehicles for parks and beach areas. A one-man operation - up to 400 cans per shift. Eliminate work comp. BSN Sports.............................................. 26 Founded in 1972 as a factory direct equipment company, BSN Sports is the largest distributor of team sports apparel and equipment in the United States. Hiway Federal Credit Union......................... 5 Cartegraph...............................................71 Cartegraph empowers cities and counties to become high-performance organizations. They offer services and software to help local government agencies manage assets effectively, deploy resources efficiently, and become more productive for their citizens. CleanRiver Recycling Solutions.................. 22 CleanRiver Recycling Solutions is a leading manufacturer of recycling bins. Creating less waste is our passion. Creating effective recycling programs that work is our purpose.
Commercial Recreation Specialists .........8 & 9 Commercial Recreation Specialists provides recreation products including commercial-grade inflatables for waterfront or pool, splashpads, playgrounds, dock systems, lightning detection, and much more! CRS . . . Serious About Fun. Custom Manufacturing.............................. 25 Custom designed bridge kits for walking trails, parks, golf courses, and snowmobile trails. Arched or flat design with various railing options. Boardwalk kits also available. Free site visit. eTrak Recreation Software......................... 28 eTrak Recreation Software systems provide cloudbased, cost-effective, powerful management solutions for all recreation organizations. eTrak is secure, intuitive, and accessible from any webenabled device. Finnegan Playground Adventures LLC..........31 Flagship Recreation...................................41 At Flagship Recreation, we believe the world can be changed through play. That everyone, regardless of ability, should have an opportunity to play. FlyOver America......................................... 6 See America like never before! With FlyOver America you’ll feel like you’re truly flying with wind, scents, mist and other amazing effects. Soar over spectacular landscapes and experience the USA from a birds-eye view - without leaving Minnesota! There’s no faster, or more amazing, way to see what America has to offer. Gage Bros. Concrete Products, Inc.............. 30 Gage Bros. Concrete Products, Inc. was established in 1915. Gage Brothers is the Midwest’s premier precast concrete company, and recently added Gage Park Restroom Structures, LLC, to its stable of available products. The restroom facilities are durable, cost effective and aesthetically pleasing. H+U Construction..................................... 75 H+U Construction is a Minneapolis-based construction and consulting firm, founded in 1983. H+U offers construction management, general contracting, owner’s representation, and consulting services. HGA........................................................ 65 At HGA, our parks and recreation team specializes in the evaluation, planning, and design of facilities to meet the needs of your community now and well into the future. Hiller Commercial Floors........................... 49 Hiller Commercial Floors specializes in providing quality flooring in public spaces through the Minnesota state contract and service co-op contract public agencies can purchase high quality products at discounted prices. HKGi........................................................13 HKGi’s services include park and trail master planning and design, parks and recreation system planning, schematic and detail design, construction documentation and administration, and master planning and design for nature-based educational facilities.
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Horizon Pool Supply................................. 76 Provide commercial pool supplies, chemicals, equipment, training, automation, renovation & service. ISG...........................................................10 ISG is a multi-disciplinary firm providing innovative architecture, engineering, environmental, and planning solutions. Working in multiple markets, ISG translates its experiences to each client’s advantage. Johnson Commercial Fitness ...................... 73 Johnson Commercial Fitness offers the widest selection of commercial fitness products at the best available pricing in the industry. Trust your project to the most experienced company in fitness. Kenwood/WS Communications.................. 60 Kenwood two-way radios and accessories. LHB......................................................... 23 LHB is a full-service firm providing services in architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, engineering, planning, and surveying to Minnesota recreation and park clients. Life Floor................................................. 47 Loucks..................................................... 48 Loucks is a trusted project partner that delivers innovative, cost-effective solutions based on a genuine understanding of the land. Offerings include: landscape architecture (design for construction, comprehensive planning, master planning), civil engineering, surveying, laser scanning, land planning and environmental services. McKinstry Essention, LLC........................... 70 Midwest Playscapes, Inc.............................16 Commercial playground company established in 1991. Products we provide include: outdoor and indoor playground equipment, safety surfacing, shelters, site furnishings, bleachers, basketball equipment, and soccer goals. We have our own inhouse factory certified install crew. Minnesota Partnerships.............................. 2 We provide consulting services for golf course operations, concession operations, athletic facility feasibility, and grant writing. Minnesota State University, Mankato.......... 58 MSU, Mankato Department of Recreation, Parks and Leisure Services Rec Club - a student professional development and social organization. Minnesota Wisconsin Playground............... 72 MWP provides playground equipment along with shelter, shade, site furnishings, surfacing, splash pads, adult fitness, dog parks, and obstacle challenge courses. MN Field Trip & Activity Library & LetsDoMN................................................17 A comprehensive, free resource for all planners, group leaders * activity coordinators to discover Minnesota’s BEST educational/recreational activities, events & destinations.
2019 Exhibitors
MOTI Sports, Inc....................................... 40 Coaches can use this 3D-powered technology to increase player engagement and performance. Our current offerings add to this by streamlining existing coaching tasks and improving training material accessibility. MRPA Annual Conference 2020.................. 55 Stop by and share ideas on session topics and speakers. Save the date for Sept. 22-25 in Brainerd! MSA Professional Services, Inc................... 50 MSA Professional Services consists of approximately 325 engineers, architects, planners, funding experts, surveyors, GIS experts, and environmental scientists providing clients with high quality, cost-effective solutions. MTI Distributing....................................... 59 Grounds maintenance equipment and irrigation supplier Musco Sports Lighting................................14 National Recreation Systems...................... 27 Northland Recreation LLC.......................... 39 Contact Northland Recreation today for all your park and playground needs. From concept to design to installation, we can help you obtain your playground dreams. Oertel Architects, Ltd.................................. 7 Oertel Architects specializes in all types of municipal architecture including parks and recreation facilities, well houses, water treatment facilities, public works facilities and fire stations. Play-Well TEKnologies................................21 Push Pedal Pull Exercise Equipment .... 32 & 33 Recognized leader in the sales and service of premium fitness for both residential and commercial setting. Today we are of the largest fitness equipment dealers in the country, with over 30 years of growth and stability in the specialty fitness industry. Ramaker & Associates, Inc......................... 43 Multidisciplinary architectural and engineering firm specializing in the design of splash pads and aquatic facilities design, from concept to completion, for new construction, additions, or remodels. RAVE Sports............................................. 66 RecDesk Software..................................... 42 RecDesk is a fully-hosted, web based recreation management system.
RJM Construction........................................ 3 RJM Construction has provided general contracting services since 1981. Based in Minneapolis, RJM delivers on clients’ vision in ground-up construction, interior remodeling, and project planning. Sourcewell (Formerly NJPA)....................... 24 Sourcewell is a self-supporting government organization, partnering with education, government, and nonprofits to boost student and community success. Spartan Promotional Group ............... 51 & 52 Promotions products, logoed apparel and tents, banners, and table covers. Sports Facility Advisory & Sports Facilities Management........................................... 57 For the past 16 years, SFA & SFM have led the youth & amateur sports marketplace as trusted advisors, innovators, critical finance partners, and operators of the most successful sports tourism and community sport destinations in America. Sports Technology, Inc...............................15 Since 1983, we have provided Minnesota with indoor and outdoor sound systems, protective netting and poles, as well as structural installations and project management. SRF Consulting Group................................18 SRF is a multi-disciplinary firm which specializes in the planning and design of park and recreation facilities, trail and greenway systems, and athletic field complexes. St. Croix Recreation.............................11 & 12 St. Croix Recreation is a manufacturers representative that sells playground and park supplies, made in the Midwest, in Minnesota. www.funplaygrounds.com Stantec.................................................... 63 Parks and recreation are core to a thriving community. Through thoughtful design, Stantec promotes active lifestyles, enhances the natural environment, and encourages playful social interaction. Sundial Energy..........................................61 Sundial Energy provides solar lighting for parks, trails, parking lots and other municipal applications. SwedeBro................................................ 45 SwedeBro does concrete floor coatings (epoxies) which may be used on pool decks, locker room floors, community centers and offices , as well as any concrete floor.
Sylva Corporation, Inc............................... 62 Sylva is Minnesota’s premier producer of decorative landscape mulches and engineered wood fiber for playground surfacing. Offering our products in bulk, bagged and blown-in to landscape areas and playgrounds. TKDA....................................................... 36 TKDA, a 100% employee-owned engineering, architecture, planning firm, established in 1910 in Saint Paul, provides high-quality design services to public and private clients nationwide. University of Wisconsin - La Crosse................1 Enrich your professional experience and achieve more with UW-LaCrosse’s fully online master of science in recreation management - professional development. USTA Northern......................................... 56 Vermont Systems, Inc................................ 35 Vermont Systems provides premier recreation and parks management software solutions with unparalleled support. RecTrac is a fully integrated, browser-based recreation management system. Water Wars.............................................. 37 Water Wars has been a manufacturer of dynamic water attractions in the amusement park, theme park, water park, resort, campground, and family fun center industry since 1989! Webber Recreational Design, Inc................ 44 Webber Recreational Design has been designing, selling, and installing playgrounds, park shelters, site furnishings, water slides and splash pads for over 20 years. Wild Mountain / Taylors Falls Recreation..... 34 Wild Mountain and Taylors Falls Recreation provide year-round adventures and field trips for all ages. Located in Taylors Falls, in the beautiful St. Croix River Valley, one hour north of the Twin Cities. WSB & Associates, Inc............................... 74 WSB is a professional consulting firm providing an array of engineering, planning, design, environmental, and construction testing and observation services to clients in the government, energy and commercial markets. WW Goetsch Associates............................ 69
Complete the Exhibit Hall Punch Card for a chance to win prizes! Visit 5 vendors to get your card stamped, then turn it in for a chance to win prizes. Fill out additional cards for more chances to win! Drawings at 2:00 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 3:00 p.m., 3:30 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. Must be present to win.
MINNESOTA Recreation Recreation and and Parks Parks •• www.mnrpa.org www.mnrpa.org 77 MINNESOTA
Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019
Thursday, November 7
8:30 – 9:45 a.m.
8:00 – 8:30 a.m.
Equity in Recreation Programming
Registration / Continental Breakfast
ROOM: HARVEST A
8:30 – 11:00 a.m.
OFF-SITE INSTITUTE: North Mississippi Regional Park, Minneapolis Sponsored by SRF Consulting Group
Limited to 50 attendees. Buses depart near registration desk lobby.
Gina Stokes, Recreation Program Supervisor, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Explore Saint Paul Parks and Recreation’s efforts on providing equitable fee-based programming at recreation centers located in areas of high poverty with the City of Saint Paul. Participants will learn how to analyze registration data, and improve feebased programming and programming gaps all through using an equity lens.
Developing Eagle Scout Projects for Your Parks ROOM: HARVEST B
Nature Play: You Build It; They Will Come! Guss Boomer, Parks Senior Planner, Ramsey County; Ken Grieshaber, PLA, Principal, SRF Consulting Group, Inc.; Lonnie Hebl, Planner, Olmsted County; Marcie Oltman, Director, Tamarack Nature Center, Ramsey County; Crystal Passi, Landscape Architect, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board; MaryLynn Pulscher, Environmental Education Manager, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board; Karlin Ziegler, Park Superintendent, Olmsted County The best places for nature play are already framed by nature: big trees, fallen branches, random boulders, and decaying logs. However, scrubby edges of natural areas, marginal land, and even turf grass with a couple canopy trees can be transformed into engaging nature play spaces. All our park systems have such areas, and it is time to consider their potential for supporting children’s play without major physical changes or enhancements. Participants will be transported to North Mississippi Regional Park to tour the newly developed nature play areas designed and built by Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board.
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Eric Thompson, Programming Supervisor, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation; Dave Arola, Training & Advancement Director, Northern Star Council BSA; Bob Bassett, Mustang District Advancement Chair, Northern Star Council BSA Collaborating with a Boy Scout on an Eagle Scout project can be a rewarding experience for both your agency and the scout. Attend this session and learn some tips on developing successful Eagle projects for your park system.
If Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees, Where Does It Come From? ROOM: HARVEST C
Nate Burkett, City of Shakopee; Laurie Hokkanen, City of Plymouth; Matt Podhradsky, City of Chaska; Minnehaha Creek Watershed District Competition for funding parks can be fierce. Is the solution to build and lease a restaurant to generate revenue, or work with the watershed district to access the Outdoor Heritage Fund and the county’s bonding authority,
or maybe solicit private donations to demonstrate project support before asking for public dollars? The answer almost always means bringing together a wide variety of tools, including: grants, donations, user fees, lease revenue, bonds, tax increment financing (TIF), and more to get big projects across the finish line.
Canoemobile: Creating Future Generations of Minnesota’s Stewards ROOM: TACK A
Christine Tomlinson, Youth Programs Manager, Wilderness Inquiry, and Mary Mallinger, Youth Programs Manager, Wilderness Inquiry Wilderness Inquiry’s Canoemobile is a “floating classroom” that brings students onto local waterways in 24foot Voyageur canoes to learn about science, history, geography, and culture. Canoemobile is a unique and impactful way for students and residents to connect with their local waterways and parks.
Incredible Edible Parks ROOM: CARRIAGE HALL B
Scott Berggren, Recreation Services Manager, City of Crystal; Lisa Abernathy, Recreation Supervisor, City of St. Louis Park; Joan James, A Backyard Farm As cities, we provide access to most of our parks and open spaces. But what if that also included access to healthy, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs? Learn how you can bring the theme of “locally grown” to your parks and programs.
Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019
Thursday, November 7 8:30 – 9:45 a.m.
Improving Asset Management Inside and Out ROOM: CAPTAIN’S
Jamie Birkett, Sales Engineer, Cartegraph; Sonya Rippe, Parks and Forestry Project Coordinator, City of Plymouth From managing facilities to tracking trees, running a high-performance park is no small feat. How can you leverage data and technology to prevent the most common asset management mistakes? Learn how the City of Plymouth Parks and Forestry team has streamlined the management of their assets, work, and requests.
10:00 – 11:15 a.m.
Creating Inclusive Park Spaces for Trans and Gender Nonconforming Folks ROOM: HARVEST A
Alex Jackson Nelson, Trainer and Consultant, Considerit Communications; Elise Niedermeier, ADA Coordinator/Community Access and Outreach Coordinator, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Attendees will learn to develop comprehensive gender inclusion policies that cover built space, programmatic access, and workforce policies. The presenters also address ways in which this work aligns with and supports racial equity and disability justice.
Young Professional and Student Network (YPSN) Workshop - LIVE
Optimizing Economic and Financial Outcomes in Your Parks and Recreation Assets
ROOM: HARVEST B
ROOM: CARRIAGE HALL B
Get information in a fast-paced setting on four top park and recreation topics that are essential for young professionals and students: opportunities, relationships, strengths/weaknesses, and mentorship. The session includes rotating topics every 15 minutes in a roundtable setting. Bring your questions, business cards, and a positive attitude.
Jason Clement, Founder, The Sports Facilities Management
Income Disparity in Youth Sports: Why Creating Equity and Inclusion for Physical Activity is Critically Important for the Future of Health & Society
Parks and recreation assets produce significant economic, social, and community benefits. Understanding these benefits - including parks’ impact on property values, health care costs, crime rates, and community engagement - and where you have opportunities to optimize your assets are key steps in evaluating the value of your parks and recreation assets.
Partner Power ROOM: CAPTAIN’S
Courtney John, Community Recreation Specialist, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation; John Halderman, Community Recreation Specialist, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation
ROOM: TACK A
Evan Eleff, COO and Partner, The Sports Facilities Advisory The defunding of school sports and cultural shifts have led to never-before-seen levels of inactivity, obesity, and overweight children in America. In this session, we will discuss the data around the benefits of sports, strategies for parks and recreation to create free and reduced play, and funding opportunities for new programs.
Harness the power of community partnerships to drive program participation. We’ll examine the three levels of partnership, identify some uncommon sources for new collaborations, and demonstrate partnership structures that are beneficial for both parties.
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Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019
Thursday, November 7 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Lunch
ROOM: CARRIAGE HALL
12:30 – 2:45 p.m.
OFF-SITE INSTITUTE: Westwood Hills Nature Center and The ROC, St. Louis Park Limited to 50 attendees. Buses depart near registration desk lobby.
Tour the new interpretive center at Westwood Hills Nature Center. This $12 million project is in the middle of construction, so you will get a behindthe-scenes tour while construction is still taking place. This 13,500 squarefoot facility will contain three multipurpose rooms, separate exhibit space, accessible viewing of raptors, a conference room, and lounges for community gathering spaces. This facility will be the only commercial building with the goal of zero energy in Minnesota. The City of St. Louis Park’s Recreation Outdoor Center (The ROC) has recreational opportunities for everyone in every season, from outdoor ice to turf to large dry floor space. Come check out what The ROC has to offer all under one roof! The ROC is truly the crown jewel of multi-use outdoor venues by how it morphs through the seasons. The facility consists of an NHL-size refrigerated ice sheet, artificial turf, bleacher seating, four dedicated team rooms, officials’ locker room, resurfacer garage, 43-stall parking lot, outdoor fire place, and storage space. This facility has received the notorious MRPA Tommy Johnson Award, the IAA Award of Excellence for Fabric Frame Supported Structures, and is a nominee for the International Association of Sports and Leisure Facilities IAKS Award. Come visit this architectural marvel!
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12:30 – 2:45 p.m.
OFF-SITE INSTITUTE: The Loppet/Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Trailhead Limited to 50 attendees. Buses depart near registration desk lobby.
The Trailhead is a new Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board welcome center in the heart of Theodore Wirth Regional Park. The park is a 759-acre park whose activities range from Nordic skiing and mountain biking to golf and hiking. The Trailhead was developed through a public-private venture with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and the Loppet Foundation, and includes a beautiful gathering space connecting to the outdoors, recreation resources, a restaurant, a shop for rentals and merchandise, Velofix bike and ski repair shop, and a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ kiosk. The Trailhead is located at the beginning of many ski and bike trails as well as a par 3 golf course. Learn about how the coordination of these many activities as well as the cooperation of the many entities involved have brought us this amazing place we call The Trailhead.
Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019
Thursday, November 7 12:45 – 2:00 p.m.
Community Engagement: Youth Work Through an Equity Lens ROOM: HARVEST A
Steve Randall, Tim Simmons, Sharina Rodgers, and Marcell Thompson; Community Youth Workers, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Explore Saint Paul Parks and Recreation’s efforts toward providing quality youth work training for front line recreation staff through proven techniques and strategies for effective youth work.
Niche Sports: The Opportunities that Await Your Community ROOM: HARVEST B
Recreational Sports Commission and Athletic Management Group Join us for a sneak peek into the exciting world of alternative sports. This interactive session will feature a representative from each one of the many niche sports that may be flying under your radar. We will also discuss a wider array of niche sports and provide a Q&A period. Who knows, they may just fit into your community!
Managing Wildlife in Minnesota Parks
Calculating the Economic and Financial Outcomes in Your Parks and Recreation Assets
ROOM: HARVEST C
Jonathan Hicks, Professor of Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Services, Minnesota State University, Mankato
ROOM: CARRIAGE HALL B
Participants will discuss best practice management techniques, and explore strategies to live and play alongside our wild neighbors. There will be time to ask questions and discuss personal experiences and challenges with park wildlife.
Multiple studies have concluded that parks and recreation assets directly impact home values, health outcomes, community engagement, and tax collections. However, most municipalities lack clarity on the actual value of their parks and recreation assets. This session will provide insight into a new approach to calculating the value of parks and recreation assets and programs.
Interview Skills – Learning How to Tell Your Best Story! ROOM: TACK A
Jennifer Fink, Director, New Brighton Parks and Recreation Learn from the professionals who do the interviewing! Identify your story, and learn how to mold that story into creative and memorable interview answers that will get you to the next step in your career. This session will help people in all stages of their career prepare for their next interview.
Evan Eleff, COO & Partner, The Sports Facilities Advisory
Standing Out as a Department in Your Community: Part 1 ROOM: CAPTAIN’S
Katy Keller, Marketing Coordinator, Indian Trail, North Carolina Parks and Recreation; John Stutzman, Recreation Supervisor, City of Golden Valley Looking to WOW your community? Let’s make IT happen! In this session, we will discuss ways we have transformed our departments to be innovative and trendsetting in all aspects of offerings. Learn about simple practices that can impact your community while making your department stand out and gain recognition.
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Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019
Thursday Speed Sessions 2:15 – 3:00 p.m.
Making IT Work for YOU! ROOM: HARVEST A
Adam Larson, Director of Information Technology Services, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Attendees will learn how technology departments operate and how to engage them as partners to make your technology projects successful. Learn from real life examples, how to create effective IT project proposals and have the opportunity to ask an IT professional about existing projects.
Be Prepared When Your Asphalt Pavement Needs Repair ROOM: HARVEST B
Jason Krause, Key Accounts Manager, Bituminous Roadways, Inc.; Kellie Erickson, Business Development Representative, Gordian Attendees will learn how to identify distresses in your asphalt surfaces and what maintenance techniques are best. Discover the convenience of partnering with a Sourcewell contracted vendor.
Introducing and/or Improving the Sport of Disc Golf in Our Parks ROOM: HARVEST C
Derek Tonn, Founder and CEO, Mapformation, LLC The sport of disc golf has been one of the fastest growing recreational activities across North America and Europe. Courses can be installed on property with great elevation change and/or heavily-wooded property that may be unsuitable for other activities. This session will discuss ideas and best practices to develop the best overall experience for residents and visitors alike.
Meet the Research Bike ROOM: TACK A
Andrew Oftedal, Research and Policy Specialist, Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota; Bob Bierscheid, President, Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota The Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota developed the “Research Bike” in 2018 to collect data on bicycle trails. The Research Bike is equipped with sensors and cameras, rates the roughness of each trail, and takes photos for Google Street View. This presentation will discuss how the Research Bike was developed, how it has been used, and future applications.
Beyond the Open House: Engaging Your Community in Parks and Recreation Initiatives ROOM: CARRIAGE HALL B
Ken Grieshaber, Principal, SRF Consulting Group, Inc. With more emphasis being placed on engaging community stakeholders in decision-making for implementing park and recreation improvements, identifying the best techniques to engage a broad demographic of user groups will lead to consensus-driven results for projects.
Standing Out as a Department in Your Community: Part 2 ROOM: CAPTAIN’S
Katy Keller, Marketing Coordinator, Indian Trail, North Carolina Parks and Recreation Want to reach your entire community about event information, upcoming programs, or getting more involvement? It starts with engagement. Attend a session that will show you how to build a relationship through social media outlets with tips, tricks, and latest trends that will have your insights skyrocketing!
Networking Opportunities The MRPA Conference official networking event will be held Wednesday, November 6. Recommended on-your-own social and gathering places for Tuesday and Thursday evenings include: • Top Golf, 6420 North Camden Avenue, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430, www.topgolf.com • The Brooklyn, 8700 Edinbrook Crossing, Brooklyn Park, MN 55443, www.brooklynedinburgh.com
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Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019
Thursday, November 7 3:15 – 4:30 p.m.
Sponsored by WSB & Associates
Afternoon Keynote
Jessie Diggins: Learn from an Olympic Champion ROOM: CARRIAGE HALL
Photo: CSEP
Jessie Diggins is known for her uncanny ability to go deep into the “pain cave” as she calls it – which she clearly demonstrated to seal the deal for her 2018 gold medal. Despite her incredible individual effort, she speaks passionately, about teamwork and how to identify and focus individual strengths for the greater good of the team. Jessie was cross-country skiing before she could walk, hitching a ride in her dad’s backpack, pulling his hair and telling him to “Mush!” Jessie is known for two things: being able to “go deep into the pain cave,” ski-speak for pushing
herself to the edge and beyond; and doing it with style, with a smile and some sparkles. From Afton, Minnesota, with a background in dance, swimming and soccer, Jessie was a nine-time Junior National Champion on skis. Within the senior ranks, she’s responsible for numerous American firsts: • At 20, she was the youngest woman to finish top-5 in a World Cup distance race. • In 2013, at just 21, she became the youngest American World Champion and the first U.S. Woman to win a championship title (with teammate Kikkan Randall). • At 22, she won silver at the U-23 World Championships, and went on to finish 8th at the Olympic Games in Sochi. • During the 2015 season she ended a 33-year drought in championship-level distance medals for Team USA by winning the silver medal at the World Championships in 10km skate. • In 2015-16 she became the first American woman to win a modern distance World Cup in the 5km skate individual race. • In 2016-17 she won five World Cup medals and added both silver and bronze medals at the 2017 World Championships. • In 2018, she and teammate Kikkan Randall became the first-ever American cross-country skiers to win Olympic gold.
Friday, November 8 8:00 – 8:30 a.m. Registration / Continental Breakfast
8:30 – 9:45 a.m.
Sponsored by Landscape Structures
Closing Keynote
Minnesota State Demographer Susan Brower: An Inside Look at Minnesota Demographics ROOM: GARDEN CITY
Susan Brower became the state demographer in February, 2012. In that capacity, she travels the state talking with Minnesotans about the new social and economic realities that are brought about by recent demographic shifts. Minnesota is undergoing a dramatic shift in its age structure as the immense Baby Boomer generation continues to enter the 65-and-older group. Their aging will serve to move our state’s median age higher, transforming our workplaces, communities, and systems along the way. State Demographer Susan Brower will characterize Minnesota’s aging trend and discuss impacts and implications in the areas of health, disability, volunteerism, the state budget, the future labor force, and beyond.
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Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019
Friday, November 8
Recreation, Parks, and Modern Aging
MRPF New Initiative Grants – Locally Grown Innovation
10:00 – 11:15 a.m.
ROOM: HARVEST C
ROOM: HARVEST B
Including People with Disabilities in Recreation Programming
Lydia Morken, Age-Friendly Communities Consultant, Morken Consulting; Kris Orluck, Retired Senior Coordinator, Maple Grove Parks and Recreation
Lisa Abernathy, Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation Board of Trustees
ROOM: HARVEST A
Age-friendly cities help ensure the growing number of older residents can live active and independent lives. Learn about the role of recreation and parks in this work and how some communities are approaching it.
Sarah Thorsen, CTRS, Therapeutic Recreation and Inclusion Coordinator, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Learn how to make your programming more inclusive of people with various disabilities through discussion and hands-on activities. Identify what you are currently doing to provide inclusive programs, and learn activities and strategies for creating a more inclusive program for all community members.
Animal Events Roundtable ROOM: HARVEST B
Speakers: Seasoned MRPA Professionals Pet events are a pawfect oppawtunity to attract those fur families in your community. Discuss how to get a pet event started, learn about resources to make it happen, and how others have been successful in the process. Anything is paw-sible!
Directors’ Panel ROOM: CAPTAIN’S
Seasoned Directors of City and County Agencies Join us for a panel discussion sharing Minnesota parks and recreation journeys through the eyes and experiences of a number of directors. These directors worked for their hometowns, made a career of parks and recreation from their first job, or have provided great contributions to MRPA. The moderated panel will discuss career path, MRPA involvement, how being a director has changed over the years, and more.
11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Marking Our Parks: Navigating the Name Game ROOM: HARVEST A
Sue McGrath, Program Administrator, Memorials and Tributes Program, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board; Ryan Gunderson, Recreation Supervisor, City of Coon Rapids Session facilitators, representing agencies of diverse size and type, will tackle the topics of donations associated with sponsorships, naming, memorials, and tributes. Philosophies, policies, procedures, and experiences will be shared.
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Attendees will discuss how local agencies have locally “grown” new program/event ideas to help enrich their communities. Take away a new idea or concept that you can “grow” in your community, and discover the New Initiative Grant opportunity offered for MRPF members!
Financing Major Developments Through Local Sales Tax ROOM: HARVEST C
Tom Schmitz, Director, City of New Ulm Park and Recreation; Caylin Portner, Administrator, City of Elk River; Michael Hecker, Director, City of Elk River; Michael Bauer, Recreation and Facilities Director, City of Rogers In 2000 and 2016, the City of New Ulm voters approved a 0.5 percent local sales tax to fund new developments and improvements to recreational facilities. For both years, the sales tax was authorized by the State Legislature. Also learn about the recently passed, voterapproved, local sales tax funding from the cities of Elk River and Rogers. This session will describe how to use local sales tax funding to finance large construction/development projects for your agency.
Authentic Engagement with Underserved Communities ROOM:CAPTAIN’S
Ying Lee, Community Outreach and Access Coordinator, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board; Abdirahman Mukhtar, Outreach and Access Coordinator, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is committed to equitable access and use of parks and recreation. In this session, MPRB outreach coordinators will share best practices on authentic engagement and collaborations with underserved and underrepresented communities.
Working together to engage your community in parks & recreation • Park Planning & Design • Trail Planning & Design • Athletic Field Facilities • Park & Trail System Planning
Local area representative: Craig Gallop 763/533-2030 (office) 800/825-6030 (toll free) craig.gallop@musco.com
Learn more at www.tlc4led.com
More is possible when we work together. Community solutions for the spaces, places and systems that support our lives.
Formerly 2nd Wind Exercise Equipment
Forge ahead.
We’re with you on the road of life. We are dedicated to improving the financial lives of Minnesota families by helping you get more for your money — it’s what we do best.
hiway.org 651.291.1515 800.899.5626
MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org 15
Get Involved with Minnesota Recreation & Park Foundation! Let your membership work for you! The Minnesota Recreation & Park Foundation (MRPF) is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Minnesota by supporting recreation and parks through education, networking opportunities, programming grants, student and professional continuing education scholarships, and providing support to the Minnesota Recreation and Park Association. Our primary objective is to support the education, innovation, and training of all recreation professionals and students.
Become a member of MRPF and enjoy these benefits: • Annual
donation 501(c)(3) tax benefit fees for MRPF sponsored trainings, programs & events • Access to Program Initiative Grants • Access to Education Grants JOIN TO WIN! • Student Scholarships Join or renew membership during the MRPF Membership Drive • Professional Scholarships Nov 6 - Jan. 10 and you’ll • Networking Events be entered into a drawing for a complete 2020 MRPA Conference member rates package (a $360 value)! Plus, the • Fundraising Events first five new members member rates each receive a new • Conference & Workshop/ MRPF mug! Training Financial Assistance • Reduced
Visit us in the exhibit hall and go online to www.mnrpf.org to learn more.
Silent Auction, Raffle & “Experiences” Bid on awesome Silent Auction packages and Raffle items. Wednesday, November 6 from 1-4pm. NEW in 2019! Enjoy the camaraderie as you challenge colleagues to friendly competitions at one of the Mini Sports Experiences in the exhibit hall. Just $1 per try OR $5 for 6 tries. Win prizes and bragging rights for one year! Proceeds benefit MRPF.
Sports Experience Prizes MN Wild Package • 2 lower level tickets • Zamboni ride during intermission • One hour private ice rental @ Xcel Center MN Timberwolves & Lynx Package 4 tickets to two Timberwolves games • 4 tickets to two Lynx games • Autographed item •
MN Twins Package 4 tickets to a home game • 3 autographed baseballs (Kyle Gibson, Jake Odorizzi, and Jonathan Schoop) • $50 gift card to www.MLBshop.com •
Coming soon! te Athletic MRPA ement Institu g a Ma n 019 ber 3, 2munit y Center Decem om
Institute & Symposium sponsored by
Experiences sponsored by
rove C Maple G artclude: P topic s in ges; League n io s s e S en ff Chall essions Time Sta Forum; Mini-S ’ and rs Direc to l Events, Youth cia , e g p S in r fo ramm al Prog rs; Seas o n oluntee V h it w g in rk o W re! and Mo $75 r Rate: Membe
MRPA Nor thern Parks and Recreation Lead er ship Symposium March 24 – 26, 2020
Eagan Commun
ity Center Curriculum focu s areas include: Positioning the Profession, Na vigating the Politi cal Environment, Un derstanding Fin ances, and Mastering th e Ar t of Negotia tion and Communication Symposium Dire ctor: Tom O’Rour ke, Retired Director, Charles ton Coun ty Parks and Recreation Member Rate: $9 95 (tuition and me als) Regis tration Op ens: November 18