Minnesota Recreation & Parks Magazine Spring 2015

C OF E L E MINBRA NE TIN SO G 1 TA 0 Y MA E A GA RS ZIN E

MINNESOTA Official Publication of Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

Recreation and Parks Volume 10, Issue 1 • Spring 2015

Unforgettable Outdoor Adventures

POP-UP PARKS

Communities in Full Bloom

recreation on the go www.mnrpa.org

MINNESOTA

FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT

Recreation and Parks

By Jay Lotthammer, MRPA President

Publisher Minnesota Recreation and Park Association 200 Charles Street NE, Fridley, MN 55432 www.mnrpa.org Tel: 763.571.1305 Editorial Staff Michelle J. Snider Bethani Gerhard Editorial Board Patty Anderson, Maple Grove Jan Ficken, Brooklyn Park Jennifer Fink, Ramsey County Chad Ubl, Winona Heidi Sedlacek, New Brighton Advertising & Design Pernsteiner Creative Group, pernsteiner.com MRPA Board of Directors President: Jay Lotthammer, Eden Prairie President-Elect: Mary Jo Knudson, Owatonna Past President: Mary Pat Black, Brooklyn Park Secretary: Aimee Peterson, Chaska Treasurer: Randy Distad, Farmington RSC Chair: Jerry Ruegemer, Chanhassen East Metro: Garrett Beck, Burnsville East Metro: Jared Flewellen, Eagan East Metro: Margo Numedahl, Fridley Northeast Region: Jamie Cassidy, Becker Northwest Region: Dolf Moon, Hutchinson Southern Region: Kim Underwood, Austin West Metro: Jamie Polley, Shakopee West Metro: Michelle Margo, Brooklyn Park West Metro: John Stutzman, Bloomington This magazine is the official quarterly publication of Minnesota Recreation and Park Association and is provided complimentary to members as part of their MRPA membership. The editorial board encourages the submission of articles and photos for publication.

Articles of approximately 500-700 words or less may be submitted, but may be edited for length and clarity.

Contact Michelle Snider, MRPA, at 763.571.1305 x100 if interested in submitting an article for a future issue.

Deadlines for Articles and Advertising Summer 2015 issue................................May 13 Fall 2015 issue......................................... July 30 Winter 2015 issue........................... October 14 Spring 2016 Issue.......................... February 28 MRPA reserves the right to approve all submitted advertising in MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks magazine. All requests for advertising should be made to Todd Pernsteiner, Account Manager, at 952.841.1111 or info@pernsteiner.com.

An affiliate of National Recreation and Park Association

Thanks again for the honor of serving as your MRPA President. As my term begins, I would like to thank Mary Pat Black, outgoing president, for the fine job she did leading our organization in 2014. I would also like to thank the board of directors for all their time and commitment over the past year as well.

Our association is very fortunate to have many supporters and funding partners. In addition to our corporate partners, I would like to thank Southern Minnesota Recreation and Park Association (SMRPA) and the Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation for their financial support towards the 2015 annual conference. Their support will assist MRPA in once again providing a great educational opportunity for members this fall season.

It’s been 10 years that the MRPA has been publishing this magazine. Lots of information and networking opportunities have passed through this publication. Like most every service that is provided by the MRPA, it’s a combination of efforts from members and staff. Thanks to everyone who has contributed their design, publication and writing talents to this effort.

Some recent board activity I’d like to make you aware of revolves around our association’s financial status. Our audit is nearly complete and I’m pleased to report the initial comments and findings of our auditors have been very positive. In fact, they were extremely impressed with the work that was done to update our Manual of Procedures, which is a guiding document for the association’s work.

The board recently received a presentation from our financial advisor. We heard very good news about the performance of our investments. Since the investments are outperforming our operating line-of-credit, the board has elected to delay any payback of the line-of-credit until receiving a recommendation from the investment committee and analyzing our operating performance midway through the year. Speaking of our investment committee, I feel very fortunate to be joined on the committee by Treasurer Randy Distad, Tracy Petersen, John VonDeLinde and Executive Director Michelle Snider. The committee is scheduled to meet with our investment advisor for an in-depth look at our portfolio. I can promise you we’ll carefully review our position and report back to the board.

I’m really exited about the continuing education opportunities provided by the Emerging Recreation Leaders Institute II (ERLI 2). Thirty-five of our fellow professionals are taking part in this recently enhanced program. The committee members have worked hard to develop a program that provides additional leadership and communication skills that go beyond the curriculum offered in ERLI �������������������������������������������������� I. We really appreciate the contributions by Landscape Structures and Flagship Recreation.

The warm weather has started to arrive and it’s time for all of us to participate in the activities and travel to the places that we create, maintain and operate for those who live in and travel to Minnesota.

Live well, Jay

Spring 2015 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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From the Board President.............................................................................. 3 Foundation Corner.......................................................................................... 5 Keeping Up....................................................................................................... 6 MRPA in Action................................................................................................ 7 Meet Brad Dushaw.......................................................................................... 7 Like a Boss: The Secrets of SNL’s Success................................................... 8 Unforgettable Outdoor Adventures........................................................... 10 First City on the Mississippi......................................................................... 12 Survival Has Never Been So Much Fun....................................................... 13 The Changing Scene of Running and Walking Events............................. 14 Minnesota Parks in Motion........................................................................... 15 Recreation on the Go.................................................................................... 16 Minneapolis Pop-Up Parks........................................................................... 18 Trusted Coaches Verification Program....................................................... 19 Communities in Full Bloom.......................................................................... 21 MRPA Awards Ceremony.............................................................................. 24 MRPA Flashback............................................................................................26

ADVERTISER INDEX Commercial Recreation Specialists............................................................ 11 HIWAY Federal Credit Union............................................Inside Back Cover Landscape Structures..................................................................................... 9 Minnesota-Wisconsin Playground................................................................. 6 Musco Lighting................................................................................................ 4 Push Pedal Pull............................................................................... Back Cover R.J. Thomas Manufacturing.........................................................................25 SEH.................................................................................................................... 4 St. Croix Recreation...........................................................Inside Front Cover Stantec.............................................................................................................. 4

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FOUNDATION CORNER

Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation: Off and Running in 2015

by John Stutzman, City of Bloomington The Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation is excited about our upcoming programs and initiatives we are preparing for 2015. Additionally we are always looking for new ways to support our members in the recreation profession. If there are areas of the recreation profession you would like to see the Foundation become more involved in or events you would like to have us provide, please contact the MRPF President Nate Rosa at nrosa@ stlouispark.org.

Not a Member, Feel Free to Join Us For $25 (retirees $20, students $10) you can become a member of the Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation, the only nonprofit organization solely dedicated to promoting excellence in the parks and recreation profession. To register for your MRPF membership or to renew your current membership and be eligible for the MRPF benefits visit http://www.mnrpa.org/mrpf or contact Mark Themig at MThemig@co.scott.mn.us for more information.

an afternoon shotgun start as well as fun and innovative golf challenges throughout the day. Watch for further details in late April regarding this event.

MRPF Lawn Bowling Networking Event Join MRPF for the inaugural Lawn Bowling Networking Event Friday, August 7, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Brookview Golf Course in Golden Valley. This is a great event to close out the busy summer with co-workers or a fun way to thank your summer intern/employees. Door prizes, food, and a grand prize are all included. Registration Fee: $20 MRPF members/ $25 non-MRPF members.

MRPF Unveils New Logo The Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation is excited to present our organization’s new logo. The new look was made possible with the creative help from MRPF member, Andy Soltvedt.

& L AWN BOWLING

MRPA Facility Energy Management Course MRPF is proud to continue our support of MRPA and its members with the sponsorship of this program. Over 30 people attended the course on April 6 – 7 in St. Louis Park, and gained knowledge regarding current industry trends, facility integration, allocation of limited resources, financial analysis, prioritizing projects for maximum benefit, and determining internal rate of return.

MRPF National Professional Development Grant MRPF strongly believes significant benefits are gained when recreation professionals attend national training opportunities.

For this reason, we are excited to introduce an annual grant which is intended to inspire and expand the participation of Minnesota recreation professionals who would not otherwise have the opportunity to develop their leadership and experience the benefits and professional growth which is connected to attending a national conference or seminar. This grant will be in the amount of $1,000 and is to be used for conference registration, travel arrangements or lodging. Detailed information available at http://www.mnrpa.org/mrpf.

MRPF Annual Golf Tournament The tournament will be held Friday, June 26 at Edinburgh USA Golf Course in Brooklyn Park. The tournament will have

MRPF Student Scholarship Recipients: Where are they now?

Brad Martens: 2003 Recipient After receiving an MRPF student scholarship in 2003 he proceeded to graduate with a bachelor of science in recreation, parks and leisure Services from Minnesota State University, Mankato. In 2010 Brad received the MRPA Horizon Award and his master’s degree in public administration from Hamline University.

Having served as the facilities manager for the City of New Brighton and city administrator for the City of Winsted, Brad is currently the city administrator for the City of Corcoran.

Spring 2015 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 5

KEEPING UP City of Duluth - Best Outdoor Town in America Congratulations to the City of Duluth for being granted the title of Best Outdoor Town in America for 2014, according to Outside Magazine. Duluth beat out 15 other cities in order to win the title.

Outside Magazine conducts the contest every year, and this year it had more voters than ever before, according to Outside Magazine. Magazine editors decided to try a bracket style competition and stated that Duluth was ahead from the start.

What makes the “Best Outdoor Town in America?” Access to adventure, healthy eating options, bike lanes, and green spaces.

Duluth is well known for all its outdoor activities – from downhill skiing and snowmobiling during the winter to kayaking, boating

and hiking during the summer months. The Superior Hiking Trail is recognized as one of the top 10 in the nation. The 43mile Duluth section of the trail stretches north providing some spectacular views cutting through seven state parks.

According to Outside Magazine online, Duluthians seem to thrive on extremes. The city of 86,000 stretches for 26 miles along the westernmost tip of Lake Superior and has 6,834 acres of city parkland, 178 miles of wooded trails, and 16 designated trout streams. Which explains why Duluth has produced more than 150 Olympians—like long-distance runner Kara Goucher, nordic skier John Bauer, and the entire 2010 curling team.

Brooklyn Park Community Activity Center Receives AED Devices The Brooklyn Park Community Activity Center is now fully equipped with new automated external defibrillators (or AED devices) thanks to HEARTSafe and the Minnesota NHL Alumni. Former NHL AllStar and Minnesota North Star

legend Brad Maxwell presented the donation before the Totino Grace’s varsity hockey match in February.

Maxwell, and about 75 hockey alumnus from Minnesota, teamed up with Coon Rapids Police officer Bryan Platz who works with HEARTSafe, an organization that donates AEDs to communities.

The NHL Alumni has donated 30 AEDs to community rinks across the state in the last few years.

“Keeping Up” is a feature highlighting MRPA member events, news, people and more. To contribute to this section, please send a 125 word or less brief and photos to Michelle Snider at MRPA (snider@mnrpa.org).

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MRPA IN ACTION Advancing our Profession through Contiguous Learning

< Meet Brad Dushaw

by Stephen Skinner, M.Ed., MRPA Aquatics Section Chair As I’m sure you all do as well, I spend whatever time my work life affords me trying to advance my skills and abilities. I read a lot about leadership and decision making, areas that fascinate me as well as push me to do better work, especially where my staff is concerned. Now numbering up to 200 people during the summer and 50 people year-round, I need all the help I can get to keep them on track. Although I read as much as I am able, I suggest the Great Courses series offers much value in many areas of human endeavor and is worth a look. As these are audio programs, I can listen daily in my car during my drive time, which amounts to about an hour a day.

The individual courses can be costly, but I have found two ways around this. The first of these, the public library, is a thoroughly underutilized resource. The course I suggest below is one I borrowed from the library first, and finding it very helpful chose to purchase. How I purchased is through Audible.com, where these courses are considerably less expensive, especially if you join and pay for a monthly subscription of one new audiobook per month. Since this is an Amazon company now, there are bundles that include Kindle versions of many of their titles. And so I make the same recommendations to you, hit the library and embrace free publications. And if it’s not too dear, buy a copy. It’s well worth it.

My foremost suggestion these days is a 24 lecture series, each one-half hour in length, on the Art of Critical Decision Making presented by Dr. Michael A. Roberto, an instructor in leadership, managerial decision making and business strategy at Bryant University in Smithfield, Rhode Island. He taught at Harvard Business School for six years and was a visiting associate professor at New York University’s Stern School of Business. I find that the Great Courses really do attract world class faculty, another reason to favor them. Some of the topics included in this lecture series include: Making HighStakes Decisions, Cognitive Biases, Intuition—Recognizing Patterns, Making Sense of Ambiguous Situations, Keeping Conflict Constructive, Achieving Closure through Small Wins and Asking the Right Questions. Every lecture offers insight into studies that provide both positive, successful cases and negative, counterproductive and even disastrous examples. In fact the most tragic of failures are often the most enlightening examples in showing how to avoid such a fate.

In future issues of Minnesota Recreation and Parks, I encourage any of you who have found a resource that is readily available to put it forward and tell us all about the impact it has made on your work. I’m sure many of your time stressed colleagues would be grateful. I know I would.

Brad Dushaw initially became interested in the parks and recreation field as a teenager when he worked for the City of St. Paul in the parks maintenance department. “I really enjoyed being outside, and it was a great opportunity to work for such a large parks department,” says Dushaw, recreation supervisor for Owatonna Parks and Recreation. “I was not aware of the different careers in the parks and recreation field until I was in my second or third year of college at Minnesota State University, Mankato. I was originally a business major and was looking for a change when I stumbled upon the recreation, parks, and leisure services department at MSU.” Once Dushaw declared the RPLS major, he says he was very fortunate to be assigned a good mentor that led him in the right direction. He continued to work for the City of St. Paul, as well as the MSU campus recreation department during college. “I knew that if I wanted to get a leg up after graduation, I needed to continue to gain valuable work experience in the field,” he states.

After graduation, he accepted an internship with the City of Owatonna Parks and Recreation Department. “I would have to say, accepting that internship was one of the best decisions I ever made,” states Dushaw. “During my internship, I started to become more involved with MRPA and SMRPA, attending various section/committee meetings, and my first state conference. Not only has MRPA been a great organization for networking, but it has been a great educational tool that has helped me grow as a professional. Specifically the programming section and conference, which have been a great resource to gain new ideas.”

After Dushaw’s internship ended, he continued to build professional experience as a recreation coordinator with the City of Bloomington and then Waseca Community Education. He has been a recreation supervisor for the City of Owatonna for the past year. “I think one of the fortunate things for our department in Owatonna is that our director encourages and supports our involvement with MRPA and SMRPA,” states Dushaw.

Currently, Dushaw serves as the chair of SMRPA, and is on the programming committee for the 2015 MRPA Annual Conference. “Being part of the planning process for the 2015 MRPA Conference has been a rewarding experience thus far,” he adds. “You get to see what it truly takes to put on such a great event!”

MRPA members are the heart of our organization. They are involved and committed to advancing the parks and recreation programming. MRPA in Action is a new magazine feature which will highlight one section/committee and one professional per issue.

Spring 2015 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 7

Like a Boss: The Secret of SNL’s Success

by Jack Stahlmann With the birthday of Saturday Night Live recently, we celebrated 40 years of an institution. In those four decades, television entertainment options have increased exponentially, but SNL has been the one constant. And who has been the only constant of that constant? The boss: Lorne Michaels. There’s a lot to be learned from Lorne -- he’s good enough, smart enough, and doggone it, people like him. Here are six-and-a-half “bossy” tips that make him the ideal head honcho:

best new talent because of the stars he developed. We live in a retentiondriven business world, but the best leaders have the individual interest of each employee in mind.

1. Always be developing new talent. SNL has long had a mix of seasoned veterans blended with new upstarts, creating a balance of beloved established characters while developing a new pipeline of talent. Having an experienced office is great, but new perspectives can drive fresh ideas along.

4. Live in the moment. The water cooler debate about the best SNL cast has been a generational divider for... well, 39 years. My parents would argue that it never got better than the original cast of Belushi, Radner and Chase, and I prefer the 90s stars of Farley, Carvey and Meyers. But resist glorifying the past. A good leader appreciates the journey and learns from mistakes, yet knows enough to leave former conquests and problems in the rearview.

2. If the talent is ready to move on, let them go. When SNL stars were primed to explode onto the movie scene, Lorne kicked them out of the nest. The loss of a talented cast member was always a short-term setback for the show, but Lorne knew that he could consistently attract the

3. Don’t panic. Let’s face it: It has not been all sunshine and rainbows for SNL. There have been bad seasons when a young cast was trying to find its way, but a good leader like Lorne trusts the formula for success and doesn’t get overly concerned with a short slump.

Encouraging your higher-ranking staff to identify and help nurture up-and-coming talent can lead to a more cohesive unit.

6. Be a place that your former employees want to come back and visit. The most magical part of the “SNL 40th Anniversary Special” was not only the amazing assembly of talent, but the fact that you could see how proud they were to be SNL alums. We might not be able to assemble A-list stars at our offices like Lorne, but by treating employees the right way, we can create an atmosphere that makes people want to come back.

And six-and-a-half: Remember to honor those we’ve lost along the way. RIP Jon Lovitz.* *Jon Lovitz is not dead.

5. Cultivate a mentor system. As new cast members have come through the ranks, other alums have snatched them up and put them in their films.

Jack Stahlmann is a corporate speaker and founder of Don’t Flinch, LLC. He is a contributing editor for Huffington Post, and has been featured on the BBC. Follow Jack on Facebook or Twitter and visit www.dontflinchguy. com for more information.

SAVE THE DATE! MRPA Annual Conference October 6-9, 2015 Verizon Wireless Center Mankato, Minnesota Watch for more details in the next issue of MINNESOTA magazine.

8 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

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Unforgettable

Outdoor Adventures For people who enjoy the outdoors and like sharing life’s adventures with others, adventure recreation is the perfect vacation.

The Wild Institute creates unforgettable outdoor adventures away from technology and the pressures of life.

by Bethani Gerhard, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association For people who enjoy the outdoors and like sharing life’s adventures with others, adventure recreation is the perfect vacation. The Wild Institute creates unforgettable outdoor adventures away from technology and the pressures of life.

Chris Heeter started the Wild Institute in 2001, but has been guiding trips for over 30 years. “I have seen many trends over the years, especially when it comes to women’s trips,” states Heeter, Wild Institute speaker, poet, and wilderness guide.

“Women’s trips are not so unusual anymore, as they were over

10 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

10 years ago. They are much more normalized now and have really picked up during the past 10 years. Custom trips are also becoming quite popular.”

Heeter describes she had one family take a custom dog sledding trip for a group of eight, where the oldest was 75 years old and the youngest was eight years old. They remarked how much it meant to them to be together as a family. “They enjoyed having real conversations and being away from technology,” Heeter adds. “I think there is a real desire for people to come home

“I see two types of people on my trips: bucket list and inner journey,” states Heeter. to parts of themselves that get lost in the pace that we typically live. The ability to go where your cell phone doesn’t work is a gift to the soul.”

Heeter has cut back on the number of trips she is running due to speaking engagements. She now runs three types of trips, open to women of ages 18 and up: dogsledding adventures, Wisconsin River canoeing, and Boundary Waters canoeing. Heeter also provides customs trips open to all ages and abilities. She has seen many families and friends booking these types of trips.

Her trips range in length from a three-day trip up to a seven-day trip. “I have found that people are not able to take any longer than a seven-day trip,” states Heeter. “They aren’t able to get away from work any longer than that.”

Wild Institute adventures are more than simple vacations. Heeter claims adventure trips break the mold and invite people to experience the outdoors in a manner that provides new perspectives on the natural world and the power of positive community spirit. The Wild Institute provides active adventures, but they are not endurance tests. Participants will hike, paddle, and explore at an active but comfortable pace. Depending upon which trip they take, they may sleep in a tent or in a comfortable lodge.

“I see two types of people on my trips: bucket list and inner journey,” states Heeter. “Bucket list types of people are the ones that want to take a trip they’ve always wanted to do. Inner journey, rather than outer journey, are ones that reflect inwardly. It is a fun variety when these two types of people are on trips together people that have appreciation of place and people that reflect ‘who am I’ in this place.”

Heeter states parks and recreation is her home. It was her major in college and she has a real love for recreation. “The potential for partnering with parks and recreation is great,” she states. But in the past, I’ve found that joint insurance that covers both entities is difficult to navigate.”

For more information about the Wild Institute and adventure trips, speaking/meeting planning or team building, visit www.thewildinstitute.com. Team building offers on- or off-site programs for teams, leaders, or whole organizations that need a boost of energy and fresh perspective in working together positively and whole-heartedly. Heeter’s speaking engagements enliven organizations through perspective, stories, interaction, and easily memorable and applicable principals that help leaders, teams, and individuals be more creative, courageous, and collaborative.

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Spring 2015 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 11

First City on the Mississippi

by Mariah Parsons, Bemidji Parks and Recreation

As the ‘First City on the Mississippi,’ the City of Bemidji focuses many of its recreational opportunities on and around the water. This is also true for those looking for outdoor or adventure activities. Bemidji Parks and Recreation works with many organizations and groups through a variety of ways from providing facilities to being active board members. The City of Bemidji provides lakeside venues, trail systems, facilities and staff support technical advice.

home base during the festival. The teams are encouraged to set up tents, tables, chairs, and whatever else to show off team spirit. Awards are given for the most creative team sites.

Bike Share Program Nice Ride Bemidji is a pilot program of the Nice Ride system from the metro area. The orange bikes made their Bemidji debut June of 2014. The bikes are designed to increase biking by residents and visitors. Bemidji’s program offers rentals for a flat fee by the hour, day or week.

There are four different rental sites located throughout Bemidji totaling 100 available rental bikes. These sites are located in two lakeside parks, Diamond Point Park and Paul Bunyan Park, a local hotel as well as Lake Bemidji State Park.

At Bemidji State University an additional 100 bikes are available to students and faculty for classwork, group rides, and semester-long leases.

Paul Bunyan Triathlon

The Dragon Boat Festival Lake Bemidji’s Annual Dragon Boat Festival is one of the most popular events of the year with participants from all over the country. The setting is ideal in the Paul Bunyan Park with a natural setting and viewing area. The festival features three days of fun for the entire family. On average, there are 60 registered teams, and each team includes 16 to 20 paddlers plus a drummer. Participants must be at least 14 and teams are co-ed and must include at least eight female paddlers.

Whether you have a group representing a business or organization,

or a bunch of family members or friends, your team will have a great time. No experience or equipment is necessary.

Everything you’ll need is provided, and practice time is also available. All you need is to be ready to have lots of fun!

It’s not just about the Dragon Boat races, festival activities also include great food, kid’s activities, corn hole tournament, a parade of teams, cultural performance, and Dragon’s Den evening entertainment. In addition, each team participating in the Lake Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival will have a designated area in the Team Village to use as your team’s

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The Paul Bunyan Triathlon event is a combination of Bemidji’s best outdoor activities. Swim in Lake Bemidji, and bike and run along the scenic lakeshore trails.

The race begins at Cameron Park and racers can choose a long or short course – both are a northwoods experience. The short course to the 10 th annual triathlon offers a 1/2 mile swim, 12 mile bike and 3 mile run. The long course has a 1 mile swim, 20 mile bike, 5 mile run. The long course takes participants by historic Paul and Babe statues located at Paul Bunyan Park – be sure to stop for a picture!

Medals are awarded to top three in each category, trophies to top three overall male and female, and all finishers receive a finisher’s medal. Whether training for the Ironman or participating in your first triathlon, it will be a Bemidji Adventure.

Survival Has Never Been So Much Fun Loop the Lake Festival Take a family-friendly bike ride around Lake Bemidji! The easy, paved route offers festive rest stops, snacks and music along the way.

The first annual Loop the Lake Festival in June of 2014 exceeded expectations with over 357 participants “looping” Lake Bemidji. The event started and ended at the Sanford Event Center, taking cyclists along 17 miles of the scenic Lakeshore Trail and Paul Bunyan State Trail. Rest stops were available at Ruttger’s Lodge and Lake Bemidji State Park for a “rolling taste of Bemidji.”

The Outdoor Program Center The Outdoor Program Center (OPC) is in a unique partnership between Bemidji State University (BSU) and the City of Bemidji Parks and Recreation Department. The OPC staff encourages you to be adventurous and provides both the community and BSU students with year-round opportunities to participate in a variety of outdoor recreational activities. The OPC has an ideal setting in the City of Bemidji’s Diamond Point Park for water sports and activities such as kayaking, sail boating, paddle boarding, bike rental and ice sailing.

Fat Tire Race The first Annual Northland Fat Bike Rally was held in March 2015 with great success, and a lot of snow! Mother Nature welcomed this first time event with a temperature of 18 degrees as riders started on Lake Bemidji and looped through Lake Bemidji State Park.

Organizers expected 20 riders but the race had an outstanding 53 participate in the free 10K and 28K races. The race featured beautiful routes through Rocky Point, Balsam and Fish Hawk trails, and the Paul Bunyan State Trail. Fat bikes have exploded in popularity recently in Minnesota, especially in winter. The bikes’ extra wide tires with very low pressure are designed to float over a couple inches of snow and they get their name from their over-sized tires- making this ideal for Northern Minnesota.

by Tom Knisely, Three Rivers Park District We Minnesotans love and thrive on outdoor adventure. But those adventures can sometimes lead to trouble. You’re lost in the woods.

It’s getting late and it’s getting cold — what do you do? It’s below zero and your snowmobile has broken down in the middle of nowhere. You need shelter; can you survive the night? These are very real situations that confront outdoor enthusiasts in Minnesota on an annual basis. Knowing what to do in a survival situation actually can mean the difference between life and death.

Thankfully, there’s no need to fear.

Three Rivers Park District offers a variety of programs, year-round, that teach survival skills. Three Rivers tailors survival programs to kids, families, women, Scouts, or homeschoolers.

Your matches are wet? Don’t have any? No problem. Learn to make fire from flint or steel. Battery out on your GPS, or you’ve dropped your GPS in the lake while canoeing?

Again, there’s no problem. Learn to navigate through the woods the old-fashioned way – with map

and compass. Is it below zero and you need shelter to survive? Learn to build a quinzee and you’ll make it. Three Rivers’ survival programs teach the importance of threes.

You can survive three weeks without food, three days without water, three hours without shelter and three minutes without oxygen.

But you can’t survive three seconds without a positive attitude!

In addition to public programs held throughout the year, Three Rivers is also offering a number of survivalthemed summer camps including: Wilderness Survival Camp, Archery Survival Camp and even something called Zombie Survival Camp.

Check out ThreeRiversParks.org for details.

“The kids have a blast during Wilderness Survival Camp,” said Alex McKinney who leads the Three Rivers Outdoor Recreation School.

“They really use their imaginations and picture themselves in some dire situations. But the truth is, while they’re having fun, they’re also learning valuable skills they can use to enjoy the outdoors, and maybe one day, save their life.”

Photo: Three Rivers Park District/ Derek J Dickinson

Spring 2015 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 13

The Changing Scene of Running and Walking Events

MRPA members Aimee Peterson and John Stutzman

MRPA members Jared Flewellen, Jason T. West, and Jennifer Fink

by Mary Anderson, Anderson Race Management We have seen a significant change in the landscape of running events over the past five years. There are very few events that are just a ‘5K’ or ‘10K’ on the roads anymore. Running events have turned into ‘An Event’ with the run only being a portion of the day. Events now have various versions of post-race parties with beer, bacon and flare. Many events now offer more than just a cotton tshirt and now have sweatshirts, moisture wicking shirts, hats and more.

Many runs also have themes to them that include costumes, foams, chocolate, mud and color. The Color Run series is now the single largest event series in the world which is now made up of over 300+ events in 50+ countries. The Color Run seemed to be the trigger that started the various themes and we now see many copies of this by local and regional groups trying to capture that spark.

“Even your typical 5Ks have started to see people personalize their experiences,” says Jennifer Fink, recreation services supervisor for Ramsey County Parks and Recreation. “You see a lot more groups running, sometimes in similar shirts, costumes, or tutus. They are finding ways to make your ‘every day’ 5K a more unique experience.”

We have also seen an explosion in people and it will help hold your training nighttime runs which were once taboo accountable. It’s amazing to see what you not only to participants, but most of can accomplish when you push yourself. all cities and parks and their protocol.

In the wise words of Jack Stahlmann and Ragnar Relay - Jared With all of these demographics of races Nike:Flewellen, Don’t Flinch…Just Do It!” West, Jennifer Fink changing, we are now seeingJason many T. cities, There are still many events that focus parks and facilities changing their rules mostly on the run/walk but they are to accommodate these changes in order most likely a charity or cause event that to bring more people to their locations. highlights the cause they represent such These groups have now eased up on their as various forms of cancer, autism or rules that once did not allow events after blood donations. These events are very sundown; sound after 9:00pm or alcohol successful in not only generating revenue served in public locations. through entry fees and donations, but also There has also been an explosion in raising awareness for their cause. They participation in duathlons, triathlons do not feel the need to add costumes or and especially trail runs. Participants are themes to intrigue the participants. Their looking for all variations of activities to cause is enough reason. not only keep them active, but to give I believe we will see some of these them a new challenge. The marathon themed runs disappear over the next distance is still a challenging event to couple of years and the ‘regular’ runs people but they are now looking for come back, but there will always be a even more challenges by participating need for keeping events fresh in order in more extreme distances, sports such to keep the participants coming back as as swimming/biking and the extreme well as to attract new people to events. adventure of obstacles with fire, ropes, Participants need that spark or one thing climbs and barbed wire. to get them interested in the first place as “Unique races are nothing to be afraid of,” says Jason T. West, recreation superintendent for the City of St. Louis Park. “I started with small mud runs and now I’m captaining Ultra Ragnar running relay teams. It’s fun to do with a group of

14 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

well as to keep them coming back.

Mary Anderson is the owner of Anderson Race Management which currently provides race management, timing, promotional and rental services for over 200 running, biking, triathlon and swimming events each year.

MINNESOTAPARKS PARKS MINNESOTA MINNESOTA PARKS

inmotion motion in in motion

by Deb Weinreis, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association MRPA is pleased to announce a new partnership with Twin Cities in Motion (TCM). The goal of this partnership is to promote and further grow the sport of track and field for youth in Minnesota.

This new program will be called Minnesota Parks in Motion and replaces the Hershey’s Track and Field program which was discontinued in 2015.

TCM organizes the region’s premier running events, including the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon, a Top 10 U.S. Marathon with the mission of promoting healthy lifestyles through running events and community outreach. TCM contributes a portion of every race dollar to local youth and professional athletes and helps raise more than $800,000 annually with its charity partners.

TCM and MRPA, having as part of their missions, to provide youth programming in a recreational setting, have come together to create a partnership designed to jointly advance their missions simultaneously. Mutual partnership objectives would include continuation of track and field events around the state of Minnesota while encouraging families to make running and exercise lifelong values and habits.

This partnership is designed to provide running opportunities for children of all abilities in a competitive but fun environment that celebrates their successes and engenders enjoyment for the sport of running.

Age categories will include events for boys and girls ages 7-8, 9-10, and 11-12.

Running events will include: Ages 7-8– 50m, 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m Ages 9-10 and 11-12 – 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m Field events will include: Ages 7-8 – standing broad jump Ages 9-10 and 11-12 – running long jump Ages 7-12 – softball throw Meets will be held throughout the summer and posted on the MRPA website at www.mnrpa.org Contact Deb at 763.571.1305 x 106 or weinreis@mnrpa.org for more information.

Spring 2015 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 15

Recreation

on the Go

by Bethani Gerhard, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association The City of Brooklyn Park brings recreation into neighborhoods with their new programs: Rec on the Go and Pop Up Book Nooks.

Reaching out to different areas helped build community. They started offering Rec on the Go during the summer of 2014 at two warming houses in local parks and four apartment complexes. The Pop Up Book Nooks are located at six parks closest to the resources at the Brooklyn Park Community Activity Center.

When Brooklyn Park Recreation and Parks Department created a master plan in 2012, they recognized they needed to shift their thinking about how they offer recreation opportunities. “Our resi-

16 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

o

o dents are incredibly diverse in age, race and income, which means our department needs to diversify our offerings to meet the changing needs of our community,” says Jen Gillard, recreation supervisor for Brooklyn Park Recreation and Parks. “Part of the master planning process allowed us to really dig into key issues like mobility. We have clearly defined areas where low mobility is an issue, especially for kids under 14 and adults over 65 who live in households in poverty or without cars.”

Brooklyn Park Recreation and Parks received a generous grant from the District 279 Foundation to provide summer literacy ac-

ooooooo tivities at Zanewood Community School, three summer camps, and at each Rec to Go site. “It is incredibly fun to have boxes and boxes of brand new books delivered and know that kids can use them, fall in love with them, and take them home at the end of the summer,” says Gillard.

“We are excited to have been awarded another generous grant from the District 279 Foundation to continue providing literacy activities in the summer months.”

o

Gillard explains they focused their efforts on areas where they knew there are many children not engaged in programs due to mobility or income restriction. “Rec on the Go programs met for twice a week for a few hours, all summer long,” she says.

“We offered art, science, sports, active play, and fun each day.”

The Pop Up Book Nooks will be at two parks for an hour each day during the summer. “We read with kids, help them check out books, and do a science or art activity each day,” Gillard states. “Many of the summer recreation staff are teachers, education majors, or giant book nerds, so we are excited to be able to show kids that reading, science, and art are fun and rewarding ways to spend time.”

Bringing recreation into neighborhoods, apartment complexes or isolated areas is not a new concept, according to Jan Ficken, recreation programs and services manager for Brooklyn Park Recreation and Parks. “The traditional playground programs were created in the 1960s,” she states. “Teams of recreation leaders traveled to neighborhood parks to

spend an afternoon organizing low key sports and games, arts and crafts, music and drama for the children living close to the park. It was a core service in communities for many years.”

Ficken adds budget restraints have reduced the amount of outreach parks and recreation departments can provide to growing and changing communities. “Traditional playground programs gave way to more specialized programming in sports and athletics as parents were steering their children into high level competitive programs,” she states.

“Budget cuts necessitated the city to regionalize programs, requiring families to bring children to a central location instead of being spread out all over the community.”

Gillard adds, “As recreation professionals, we have creative minds and our recreation programming team can usually come up with a long list of ways to solve the problem of how to bring recreation to the young people who need it most.

We have a wonderful staff member at city hall, John Nerge, who is a GIS wizard. He creates maps for us that includes age, income, and mobility. He layers it on top of the city map with all of our facilities, parks, and trails. We looked at the maps and started throwing out ideas of types of programming we could offer in non-traditional places. That’s how Rec on the Go was born.”

Going out to the places where people live helps build respect and trust between the City and residents, according

to Gillard. By reaching out, they are able to help reinforce that everyone is important and they will do their best to reduce barriers to full participation.

Gillard adds, “We are a strong believer that reaching out to different places helps build community. We will still invite people to do traditional programs at brick and mortar locations like our two recreation centers, park buildings, and schools, but we understand that we also need to meet people where they are at.”

The idea of going out to neighborhoods is gaining a resurgence of energy, according to Ficken. “The push to get children outdoors and unplugged adds to the urgency of organizing recreational activities at parks,” she says.

This year, Brooklyn Park Recreation and Parks staff will be reaching out to even more areas due to the success of Rec on the Go. The program will still be at the apartment complexes, but one of their warming house locations was so popular that they will be turning it into a half-day summer camp in partnership with the City of Brooklyn Center.

In the future, their department would like to purchase a vehicle so they are able to be even more mobile. Gillard states cost and mobility are the biggest barriers to participation. They will continue to leverage their resources by strengthening partnerships with members of the Brooklyns Alliance for Youth in order to offer even more opportunities in a mobile way.

POP-UP PARKS Spring 2015 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 17

ooooooo POp-up parks

“POP UP IN MINNEAPOLIS

by Robin Smothers, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Although simple in concept, the idea of Pop-Up Parks came out of a brainstorming session attended by staff from the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB), City of Minneapolis Health Department, Minneapolis Public Schools and other government and community agencies that were part of Minneapolis’ Blueprint for Youth Violence Prevention,.

This initiative of the Minneapolis Public Health Department is part of a violence prevention effort to connect teens to community resources and engage them in fun and safe activities this summer.

One of the participants mentioned a family who lived six blocks from a MPRB recreation center that offered activities and a safe place to hang out. Unfortunately, the six block walk to the park was too dangerous for the family’s comfort, so the youth couldn’t participate in park activities. “Wouldn’t it be great if we could just pop up a park by their house?” she asked.

The group agreed and began to visualize what a pop-up park might look like.

As the idea began to take shape, the Minneapolis Health Department offered to fund the program if the MPRB would handle daily operations. Four months later, the first pop-up park appeared in Minneapolis.

Over the next nine weeks, more than 45 Pop-Up Parks appeared at neighborhoods across Minneapolis. Locations were pre-selected based on: • Input from law enforcement or community members identifying “hot spots” where teens were demonstrating misbehaviors or the potential for misbehavior or other serious negative behaviors, • Areas six or more blocks from an MPRB recreation center in low-income neighborhoods,

• Areas where special events or activities were planned to promote community relationships among neighborhood residents, law enforcement, and park and city staff, resources and partnerships.

All Pop-Up Parks included a tent and trailer that were filled with sports equipment, games, music, and art supplies and most importantly, fun, caring, energetic and positive adult staff who ensured safe and engaging activities during those long summer days. Pop–Up Parks “popped up” six days a week from 4 to 9 p.m., or during designated times if part of a festival or event. Although the parks attracted families and youths of all ages, most of the activities were designed to interest youth ages 12 to 17. Over the summer, nearly 2,200 youth participated in Pop-Up Parks activities.

“We learned a lot from our first year,” said Heidi Pope, MPRB director of youth development. “For example, food and music were two things that really seemed to draw participants to the event. But one of our most significant learnings was the importance of having staff that are skilled in handling conflict and behavioral issues so that everyone participating can be safe and have fun.”

The popular program will be back for a second year. Pope said although the pop-up locations are a surprise, she is getting multiple requests from community organizations for the parks to appear at their events. Additionally, the

18 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

pop-up concept has been expanded to two other areas: • Pop-Up Bicycle Shop: Pop-up Bicycle Shops will pop-up at parks throughout the city each week to help children and teens learn basic bicycle repair and maintenance, explore the city by bike, and decorate bikes for parades and events.

• Pop-Up Family: The Pop-Up Family tent will bring family-friendly activities such as sidewalk chalk, hula hoops, beads, string, jump ropes, coloring books, crayons, table games, horse shoes, and good old-fashioned fun to neighborhoods across Minneapolis.

For the past three years, MPRB’s Youth Development has also operated Pop-Up Libraries. These outdoor libraries stock books for toddlers to older teens to take home at no cost. Additional activities include art projects, games, interactive storytelling and spoken word poetry.

The Pop-Up Library is part of an AmeriCorps VISTA and Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board effort staffed by Teen Teamworks teens to promote reading and advance literacy for children.

“These type of pop-up activities are a perfect way to reach some of our most underserved communities,” notes MPRB Superintendent Jayne Miller. “They give kids a safe place to meet others while discouraging anti-social and other unwanted behaviors, all of which help make our community a better place to live.”

The Minnesota Youth Athletic Services is proud to present the Trusted Coaches Verification Program (TC), which offers the most up-to-date training tools necessary for coaches to provide our young athletes a safe, positive and productive experience. TC also allows administrators to effortlessly monitor and manage their coaches’ training and development.

The TC components include a nationwide background check, concussion training (required in many states), a first-aid training course, and the Positive Coaching Alliance “Double Goal” coaches’ character education course.

This entire program is delivered online and can be completed at each coach’s own pace. Coaches are issued a Trusted Coach Verification Card complete with their color picture upon completion of the program.

The benefits of this program include: • leading coaches and sports psychologists presenting powerful techniques, which increases the coach’s effectiveness while enhancing the players’ experiences; • training, which minimizes the risk of harm or injury to young athletes;

• a “one-stop shop” for youth organizations to deliver best practices training to their coaches; and • a turnkey administrative system with an online repository that keeps track of coaches’ certifications and renewal dates.

The program can be completed in less than two hours and coaches are given 30 days to finish the four components. The TC website will also feature a resource center with a sports blog and free sportspecific information and links. The TC website is a “go to” place for coaching tips, administrative guidelines, parent concerns, fundraising assistance and other important youth sports topics.

TC has many user-friendly tools which give administrators the ability to: • direct coaches to the TC website with an automated email; • track coaches’ utilization of the program; • create custom e-mails; and • ensure each e-mail includes an easy link for invited coaches to be able to one-click and get started with the TC program.

TC is expert-designed and is an affordable solution that makes it easy for community sports associations, park and recreation departments and other agencies to provide the best youth sports experience possible. The total cost per coach is $35 (a $95 value if purchased separately).

The Minnesota Recreation and Park Association has agreed to be a TC marketing partner and will receive a $5.00 commission for each coach for which the local department is responsible.

The state association will then share the commission (MRPA $3/Community $2) with the local community.

Several key organizations were critical to the development of this training system.

Our partners include the Positive Coaching Alliance (created at Stanford University), Fairview Sport & Orthopedic Care/ Institute for Athletic Medicine and the National Sports Center.

Log on to www.trustedcoaches.org to view the entire Trusted Coaches website. If you would like additional information regarding the Trusted Coaches Verification Program, do not hesitate to contact Dawson Blanck at 763-746-1719 or dawson@trustedcoaches.org.

Spring 2015 2015 •• MINNESOTA MINNESOTA Recreation Recreation and and Parks Parks 19 19 Spring

< Blooming Saint Paul

COMMUNITIES

IN FULL

20 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

BLOOM

CREATING

VIBRANT

PLACES

Brilliantly colored flower baskets hang from hundreds of light poles on the streets and sidewalks of Saint Paul, Minnesota each summer. Supported by Saint Paul’s Blooming Saint Paul program, the city’s hanging baskets are carefully installed and maintained by the Saint Paul Parks and Recreations Operations Department’s downtown garden crew, led by lead landscaper and horticulturist Angie Koebler. Hanging baskets are an excellent way to create color, life and movement in an urban environment. Raising up plants in space complement trees and buildings and create streetscapes. Creating vibrant places and a vital environment is one of the initiatives of the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Department.

A former general manager of the Saint Paul Hotel, a local businessman and the Rice Park Association (RPA) placed the first hanging baskets in Rice Park in 1999. The RPA partnered with a downtown economic development group, now called Visit Saint Paul, and purchased 108 baskets to hang on decorative lamp posts in Rice Park and key streets downtown. Saint Paul Parks and Recreation provided daily watering maintenance. The hanging flowers immediately created an impact that prompted other businesses, partners and sponsors to contribute to the program.

Today, there are 600 hanging baskets in downtown parks and sidewalks and along commercial corridors.

It is no small task to install and maintain the baskets throughout Minnesota’s unpredictable summer weather. The last two summers have been two of the windiest

by Angie Koebler, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation

and driest in Minnesota state history. The importance of a well selected, trained and organized watering staff is crucial.

Plants don’t take vacations, weekends or holidays off; they are watered every day. It takes several hundred maintenance hours by a watering team of about 10 seasonal employees, who often come back several summers in a row even though weekends and holidays are a required part of being on the water team.

Parks Operations Equipment Services staff, whose abilities enable them to promptly repair watering equipment, especially in periods of drought or high wind, provide crucial expertise. In recent years, the equipment team replaced gas powered engines and water pumps with customized electric units. These electric units are quiet, user friendly and environmentally sound.

Saint Paul’s hanging baskets exemplify the mission of the Blooming Saint Paul program which is to beautify Saint Paul’s urban environment through lush and colorful landscape elements in order to create a more attractive, safe and healthy city where people choose to live, work and play. The Saint Paul hanging flower baskets create a sense of place for residents and visitors alike. They serve as an annual signal of the changing seasons and help to make Saint Paul the most livable city in America.

Blooming Saint Paul

Fun Facts

• A full-grown hanging basket can weigh between 50 and 75 pounds.

• Hanging baskets are assembled and grown by a local grower.

• It takes 10 weeks for a hanging basket to grow in a greenhouse before it is ready for installation.

• Flowers used are primarily Supertunias™, callibrachoa and begonias.

• Metal brackets are custom-made in Saint Paul and hold two baskets.

• Baskets are placed at least seven feet above the sidewalk.

For more information, contact Angie Koebler at angela.koebler@ci.stpaul.mn.us.

Visit their website http://www.stpaul.gov/ index.aspx?NID=1031

Spring 2015 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 21

FLOWER BASKETS

BRIGHTEN UP

WASECA

by Bethani Gerhard, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

“We started with 24 flower basket, and added more every year. We are now up to 42 baskets. Everyone in Waseca is in agreement that the flowers perk up the downtown area during the summer,” says Clemons. “The City helped purchase the supplies. The flower baskets, purchased from Bloommaster, are unique because they have 36 octagonal holes around the outside which allows flowers to be planted on the sides, as well as out the top. The shape of the holes keep the dirt from washing out. The City provided an older brush truck and water equipment to water the flowers every morning during the summer.” Clemons also says there have been several volunteers who have stepped forward, lightening the load for him.

During the warm summer months, flower baskets brighten up the downtown area of Waseca. John Clemons has been instrumental in the success of the flower basket program for the past eight years.

Clemons was mayor of Waseca 15 years ago and served on the city council for many years. He was recently elected mayor again in January of 2015.

Clemons volunteered his time to take care of the flowers every day during the summer for the past eight years. He solicited the help from volunteers and had about eight people help that first year, including the then Mayor, Roy Srp. He states, “At a city council meeting in 2008, I brought up the idea of hanging flower baskets downtown. The Council was slightly apathetic to the idea so I said if the City would buy

them, I would take care of them. Mayor Srp didn’t hesitate and said he would help. I volunteered my time to research purchasing supplies for the flower baskets. I also volunteered to water all the flowers during the summer, which took about an hour a day, seven days a week.”

Clemons says it was actually pretty economical for the City of Waseca to start the flower program because of the monetary donations they received. The flowers, 24 baskets, and double-sided brackets were purchased largely because of a grant from the Waseca Area Foundation. One particular donor selected the option of beautifying the city, making the hanging flower basket program a perfect fit. The flowers were planted by Culbert Riverstreet Nursery.

22 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Since Clemons is the current mayor of Waseca, he isn’t able to continue volunteering his time to take care of the hanging flower baskets. Another city council member has volunteered to take over the program and water the flowers every day during the summer.

Both residents and visitors to the downtown area of Waseca have commented on how much the flowers have enhanced the beauty of their town. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of Clemons, and the handful of volunteers, the program is able to be continued during upcoming summer months. For more information on hanging baskets, visit www.bloommaster.com. If you would like information on starting a program in your own town, you can reach Mayor Clemons at johnc@ ci.waseca.mn.us

ENHANCING

THE CITY OF

RED WING The Red Wing flower basket program began in 1990 with 24 baskets hung on 12 poles.

The original idea was brought to the City of Red Wing by Phil Revoir of the Red Wing Kiwanis Club. He had seen the flower baskets in Victoria B.C. and brought this idea back to Red Wing. Phil’s excitement was evident. Soon Henry Sorenson from the City of Red Wing public works department joined Phil in this project.

In 1991, the second year of the project took off with 202 baskets placed in the downtown core of Red Wing. This year, our plans are for 238 baskets to be displayed on 119 poles.

The Kiwanis donation will pay for 192 baskets, while the City of Red Wing will pay for the additional 46.

Two local greenhouses, Hallstrom’s Greenhouse and Sargent’s Nursery, are contracted to grow the baskets. Approximately one week before Memorial Day, Kiwanis volunteers and City of Red Wing staff

by Bill Rooney, City of Red Wing

load the baskets on specially constructed trailers. Early the following morning, the baskets are hung.

The Kiwanis Club has been instrumental in the success of the flower basket program.

The program would not exist without this organization.

Besides the monetary contributions, the members help load, water, and disassemble the baskets. The majority of basket watering is done by the seasonal staff of students hired by the City of Red Wing.

When students leave for school, a group of volunteers help with watering until the baskets are taken down.

The flower baskets have a big impact on Red Wing, particularly in the heart of downtown.

Tourists look forward to visiting Red Wing, a relatively small quaint, welcoming river town. The flower baskets have enhanced the beauty of our small shops and still vibrant old town feel.

Spring 2015 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 23

MRPA Awards Ceremony

2014 Award Recipients: Jack Niles Award - Jay Lotthammer, Horizon Award - Ann Mosack, Leadership Award - Cindy Walsh, Clifton E. French Award - Randy Quale, Tommy Johnson Award – Saint Paul Parks and Recreation (Kathy Korum accepted award), Dorothea Nelson Award - Mary Jo Knudson, Park and Recreation Board/Commission Award - Dorothy Peterson, Eagan Parks and Recreation

by Bethani Gerhard, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association Minnesota Recreation and Park Association held its annual professional awards ceremony on January 8, 2015 at the Holiday Inn in Owatonna, Minnesota. This ceremony recognizes members and agencies that have made outstanding contributions to parks and recreation.

MRPA extends a special thank you to Landscape Structures, Inc. for their generous support of the awards program and to the City of Owatonna for hosting the event.

The Clifton E. French Distinguished Service Award is MRPA’s award of highest distinction. The 2014 recipient for this award was Randy Quale, Bloomington Parks and Recreation (see article on page 25 for more information).

The Jack Niles Award is presented to a male professional member with 10-plus years of outstanding service to the parks and recreation profession and to MRPA. The 2014 recipient was Jay Lotthammer, Eden Prairie Parks and Recreation.

Ann Mosack, Bloomington Parks and Recreation, received the Horizon Award, given to a professional member of

MRPA with eight years or less of professional experience. In order to receive this award, the MRPA member must be an “up and coming” professional and an active contributor to MRPA with great leadership skills.

The Tommy Johnson Award was presented to Saint Paul Parks and Recreation.

The MRPA Awards Committee selected one “Award of Excellence” project to receive this award for best exemplifying the values that Tommy Johnson was known for innovation, futuristic, revolutionary and/or creative with ideas and initiatives that helped establish future trends, philosophical change, sharing of new resources and new exciting concepts.

The Board and Commission Award, given to a member of a citizen’s advisory or policy-making board in the parks and recreation profession, was presented to Dorothy Peterson, Eagan Parks and Recreation.

The Legislative Award was presented to Paul Erickson, retired from the National Sports Center. This award is given to an individual for their outstanding service to the parks and recreation profession and to MRPA.

24 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

The Leadership Award was given to Cindy Walsh with the City of St. Louis Park. This award is presented to an outstanding leader who possesses the skill, creativity, and ability to motivate and create notable accomplishments or advancements in the parks and recreation profession and someone who is an active contributor to MRPA. The Presidential Award was given to Jamie Polley with Shakopee Parks and Recreation for her hard work and persistence in getting the Did You Know program brought to Minnesota. Also, Southern Minnesota Recreation and Park Association (SMRPA) received this award for their significant financial contribution to the new MRPA website, from which we all benefit. All the members of SMRPA are also members of MRPA, and their organization continues to help with monetary support.

Congratulations to all the MRPA professional and presidential award recipients. We look forward to the 2015 Annual General Meeting and Awards Luncheon, which will be held in Roseville, January 14, 2016.

Randy Quale - MRPA Clifton E. French Award Recipient The Clifton E. French Distinguished Service Award recipient for 2014 was Randy Quale with Bloomington Parks and Recreation. This award is the highest distinction presented to a person who has provided long and outstanding service to MRPA and the parks and recreation profession.

Quale has worked for the City of Bloomington for 18 years as the manager of parks and recreation. He has over 30 years of parks and recreation experience. He started his career as a recreation programmer in 1983 for the City of Apple Valley.

“After graduating from the University of Minnesota, I was fortunate to have been hired by Terry Schultz and Jon Gurban in 1983 for my first full-time job as a recreation programmer in Apple Valley,” states Quale. “I consider myself extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn and grow under two great mentors like Terry and Jon.” Quale later moved into the recreation supervisor role for the City of Apple Valley before taking the parks and recreation director position for the City of Columbia Heights in 1995. In April 1997, Quale accepted what he states was his dream job as the manager of parks and recreation for the City of Bloomington. “I was fortunate to inherit one of the largest and best managed municipal parks and recreation systems in the state,” says Quale. “During the past 18 years, the Bloomington Parks and Recreation staff has done a tremendous job in providing first-class parks and recreation programs for the residents of our City.”

Quale thanked his wife Heather for all of her support and love throughout the years. “Heather has always been an unofficial member of the parks and recreation staff in each city that I worked,” he states. “She was always willing to help out, whether it’s selling concessions at a softball tournament or helping me run the annual Rodney Dangerfield golf tourney fundraiser. I’d also like to thank my daughter Stella for her love and the joy she brings to our lives. Last month we were all thrilled to hear that Stella got accepted to attend St. Olaf College, which is my dad’s alma mater.”

Quale has been a member of MRPA for the past 30 years. He served on the Board of Directors for five years and was the Board president in 2007. He has been on countless committees, the Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation Board of Trustees, as well as the Recreational Sports Commission. He was inducted into the Minnesota USSSA Hall of Fame in 2007.

“When I think about my involvement with the MRPA, what comes to mind first and foremost are all of the great people I’ve had the privilege to get to know and to work with through the years,” states Quale. “Whether it’s having a network of colleagues with whom to share ideas, collaborate with to take on new initiatives, to conduct research and benchmark your services to neighboring communities, or to commiserate with when things don’t go as planned, the benefits of MRPA membership are truly endless.”

Quale adds, “I’d like to express my deep appreciation for being selected for the Clifton E. French Distinguished Service Award. It is truly a great honor to be recognized by my peers with such a prestigious tribute. I am thrilled and humbled by this recognition.”

Congratulations to Randy Quale for receiving this distinguished award, and for all his years of service to MRPA and the parks and recreation profession.

Spring 2015 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 25

She’ll soon need new playground equipment. Stay top of mind.

For as little as $350 per issue, MRPA gets you in front of key recreation and park decision-makers. No other form of advertising gets you so targeted.

MINNESOTA

Recreation and Parks

Visit www.pernsteiner.com/MRPAMagazine2015.pdf to download the advertising rate card, or contact Todd Pernsteiner at info@pernsteiner.com or (952) 841-1111.

This year marks the 10-year anniversary for the Minnesota Recreation and Park Association’s magazine. The theme of the very first magazine issue, Volume 1 – Issue 1 (shown at left), was indoor playgrounds and making playgrounds safe (new ADA regulations).

During this time, the Editorial Board was comprised of Patty Anderson, Heidi Carey, Ann DeBacker, Jan Ficken, Jennifer fink, Michelle Margo, Steve Rymer, and Chad Ubl. Many of these same MRPA members are still on the Editorial Board today. The current members are Patty Anderson, Jan Ficken, Jennifer Fink, Heidi Sedlacek, and Chad Ubl. MRPA thanks all these members for their dedication to the magazine over the past decade.

26 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

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