MRPA Winter 2018 Magazine

MINNESOTA Official Publication of Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

Recreation and Parks Volume 13, Issue 1 • Winter 2018

Agencies Participate in Race and Equity Cohort Going Beyond the Yellow Ribbon

Sculpture WALKS & StrollS www.mnrpa.org

Gladstone Savanna Playground Maplewood, Minn.

Your inspiration. Your playground.

Play shapes us. That’s why we want to help you create the playground of your dreams. Wherever your ideas come from, whatever your vision, we can bring it to life with our unparalleled design capabilities. Learn more at playlsi.com or call 888.438.6574.

Serving Minnesota zip codes 565 & 567

Serving all Minnesota zip codes (except 565 & 567)

763.550.7860 fl agshipplay.com

Division of Dakota Fence

800.726.4064 • 701.237.6181

dakotaplayground.com ©2018 Landscape Structures Inc.

MINNESOTA

FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT

Recreation and Parks

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 Jennifer Fink, New Brighton Lori Hokenson, New Brighton Tonya Love, Elk River Advertising & Design Pernsteiner Creative Group, pernsteiner.com MRPA Board of Directors 2017 President: Patty Anderson, Maple Grove President-Elect: Boe Carlson, Three Rivers Park District Past President: Mary Jo Knudson, Owatonna Secretary: Michelle Margo, Brooklyn Park Treasurer: Dale McCamish, Rochester RSC Chair: Jerry Ruegemer, Chanhassen East Metro: Garrett Beck, Burnsville East Metro: Andy Soltvedt, Anoka County East Metro: Jared Flewellen, Eagan Northeast Region: Jamie Cassidy, Becker Northwest Region: Dolf Moon, Hutchinson Southern Region: Kim Underwood, Austin West Metro: Jamie Polley, Shakopee West Metro: Kelly Mertes, Brooklyn Center West Metro: Sonya Rippe, Plymouth 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 Spring 2018 Issue.......................... March 16, 2018 Summer 2018 issue.......................... May 18 , 2018 Fall 2018 issue.................................August 3, 2018 Winter 2019 issue..................... December 7, 2018 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.

On the cover: “Dreams Take Flight” sculpture with artist Nick Legeros, Hutchinson, MN An affiliate of National Recreation and Park Association

By Patty Anderson, MRPA President

Along with taking on the role of president in 2017, I started taking improv lessons. One of the core values taught in improv is; “yes, and.” The concept behind “yes, and” is to receive whatever is given to you with a “yes, and” declaration, then build from that statement or situation. For years I have had a quirky habit of creating a mantra and applying it to the full spectrum of my life. “yes, and” quickly became my mantra. I found it amazing how various experiences had an encouraging outcome when I would practice a “yes, and” response. For fun I decided to share the application of the “yes, and” mantra for the articles in this publication.

What does art, veterans, and racial equity have to do with recreation programming? They are the “yes and.” YES, recreation programming has a strong focus on lessons to master skills for playing soccer, baseball, swimming and many other sports. AND recreation programming is so much more. As you page through this magazine, you will find articles about art walks, programs for veterans, and policy information about race and equity.

Recreation is about mastering athletic skills to play sports and so much more.

This is why MRPA has so many diverse sections, committees, trainings and member interests.

Keeping with the “yes, and” mantra for my closing president’s message, here are a few more perspectives: • MRPA

core values identified in 2017 include leadership, stewardship, wellness, engagement, integrity and inclusion. Yes, and these values will be useful as the strategic plan updated is worked on in 2018.

• In

2017 we celebrated the 80th anniversary of MRPA, reflecting on the many ways members have shaped the organization over the years. Yes, and it was a perfect opportunity to start imagining where MRPA can continue to impact the quality of life in Minnesota through parks, open space, recreation, and leisure services.

• The

first-ever Facility Management Institute was offered in 2017 with 37 participants. Yes, and it was interesting to hear from participants on how they immediately applied their new knowledge at work.

• It

has been fascinating to see how professionals, young and long-standing, found innovative ways to connect and share ideas beyond the traditional in-person meetings. Yes, and it will be exciting to see how MRPA continues to evolve using technology to connect across the state.

• It

has been a privilege to lead the MRPA Board this past year. It gave me an opportunity to further develop my leadership skills. Yes, and I thoroughly enjoyed meeting and getting to know so many members.

In closing, active involvement in MRPA is vital to sustain the organization.

When professionals are hungry to grow their leadership skills MRPA is there for professional development. In other words, get involved. It is a win-win opportunity. Through your involvement your leadership skills will grow stronger and MRPA can build on our 80-year legacy.

Happy 2018! I wish all the best to each of you in the coming year.

TABLE OF CONTENTS From the Board President................................3 Foundation Corner............................................4 MRPA in Action..................................................5 Meet Kori Shingles............................................5 MRPA Events Calendar.....................................4 Keeping Up.........................................................6 Did You Know.....................................................8

Race and Equity Cohort..................................10 Hugo Yellow Ribbon Network...................12-14 Going Above & Beyond..................................16 CityArt Sculpture Walk..............................18-19 Hutchinson Sculpture Stroll..................... 20-21 MRPA Flashback..............................................22 THE BACK PAGE: Target Sports MN............23

Winter 2018 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 3

FOUNDATION CORNER

Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation Updates

by John Stutzman, CPRP, Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation Vice President On behalf of the MRPF Board of Trustees we would like to wish all MRPF and MRPA members a happy and safe 2018! The Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation is a non-profit organization guided by the Board of Trustees who provide direction for our educational and networking opportunities, programs, grants, student and continuing education scholarships, and the continued support of the Minnesota Recreation and Park Association. For more information regarding MRPA’s membership benefits, please contact MRPF president Nate Rosa at nrosa@stlouispark.org.

DID YOU KNOW…the Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation…

• 2018 membership drive wrapped-up at the Annual General Meeting on January 9 with 71 memberships processed? As part of the membership drive, MRPF is excited to award the Young Professional and Student Network (YPSN) with a free registration to the 2018 MRPA conference in Rochester. This registration will be awarded to one lucky YPSN member, watch the network’s Facebook Page for details this summer. Didn’t get your membership submitted yet? Membership is only $25 (retirees $20, students $10) and is a tax deductible donation.

Contact Nicole Gorman at ngorman@edinamn.gov for more information on becoming a member today!

• Will help send a member to a national conference or training?

MRPF strongly believes significant benefits are gained when members attend national training opportunities. The National Professional Development Grant offers $2,000 in financial assistance with the intent to inspire and expand member participation. The grant is for those who would normally not have the opportunity to develop their leadership and experience the benefits associated with attending a national conference or training. Detailed information will be available the end of February 2018.

• Members and their organizations can apply for up to $4,000 with a MRPF New Initiative Grant? We support our members and their innovative new programming opportunities. Grants are available through two cycles in 2018 - a spring deadline of March 30 and fall deadline of November 2. Applications can be found on the MRPF website mnrpa.org/mrpf.

• Completed the election for four board positions to serve a threeyear term (2018-2020) in December, 2017? The incoming Board members are Jason Hicks, Mary Jo Knudson, Michelle Margo, and John Stutzman. Thank you to our outgoing Board members Jamie Cassidy, Corky Ebeling, and Kari Hemp for your service!

• One-time financial contributions of any amount may be made to MRPF? Donations provide support for MRPA, recruitment of future MRPF legacy contributions, and additional funding of MRPF’s initiatives to promote the betterment of the parks and recreation profession.

DONATING TO MRPF HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER! 1. Shop your Amazon purchases at: smile.amazon.com 2. Designate Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation as your beneficiary A portion of your online purchases will automatically go to MRPF!

4 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

MRPF Student Scholarship Recipients: A Bright Future for Parks and Recreation We are excited to glance into the future as we honored four student members, and future recreation professionals, at the Annual General Meeting with a 2018 MRPF Student scholarship.

Abby Glaysher is a senior at Winona State University studying recreation and tourism with an emphasis in commercial recreation.

She has a strong and diverse background in the field gaining experience in youth sports, children’s programs, and with the National Park Service.

Alexandra Schultz is a junior at Winona State University triple majoring in recreation and tourism, business administration, and therapeutic recreation. While free time may be hard to come by with her busy academic schedule, she still manages her time to gain valuable field experience as a lifeguard at the YMCA and summer camp counselor.

Seth Shanley is a senior at Winona State University double majoring in recreation and tourism and therapeutic recreation with minors in adventure tourism and marketing. While preparing to obtain an internship this upcoming summer, he has built a strong resume working for Winona Parks and Recreation, Winona State University Physical Education and Sport Science department, YMCA, and serves as president for the recreation tourism and therapeutic recreation club.

Heidi Weiler is a junior at the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse majoring in recreation management, with an emphasis in community recreation. She has been following her passions for aquatics, program planning, and community outreach throughout her college career working as a swim coach, beach coordinator, summer program coordinator, and volunteer for Sparta Parks and Recreation.

Thank you to our scholarship sponsors Hiway Federal Credit Union, St. Croix Recreation, Stantec, and the Family of Fran Callahan. Congratulations to Abby, Alexandra, Seth, and Heidi on receiving this honor. We are very proud of the bright future in front of you all!

MRPA IN ACTION

< Meet Kori Shingles Kori Shingles states she was in a beginning tennis class at the park near her house one summer when she was young. “I wish I could say that my interest in parks and recreation started from a young age when I went to the parks daily and participated in programs, but the neighborhood parks were not safe where I grew up and programming wasn’t easily accessible,” says Shingles.

Super Staff Supervision Workshop National presenter Michael Brandwein provided training for supervisors, coordinators, and leadership team members to bring out the best in program and camp staff. More than 65 people attended the Super Staff Supervision on January 17 at Brookview in Golden Valley. Thank you to committee members, Janelle Crossfield, Stephanie Schutta, Alyssa Pink, Jen Gillard, and Carrie Anderson for their help with Super Staff Supervision. Also, thank you to Golden Valley Parks and Recreation for hosting the workshop.

2018 MRPA Events Calendar Certified Playground Safety Inspector Course & Exam March 14-16, 2018 Plymouth Creek Center, Plymouth (currently full) April 81-20, 2018 Rosemount Community Center, Rosemount Emerging Recreation Leaders Institute (ERLI) 2 Six times September - December 2018 2018 MRPA Annual Conference October 9-12, 2018, Rochester Civic Center MRPA Entertainment Jamboree November or December 2018

Shingles is currently the adult athletics supervisor in Eden Prairie.

“I’ve always been a competitive, hardworking and active person,” she states. “I was very involved in athletics in high school and played volleyball at Cornell College. In the off-season, I would play as much sand volleyball as I could in a league in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and I coached a Junior Olympic volleyball team. I’ve also played in a few softball leagues along the way. Through some connections I made through college, I was able to travel and play in the National Adult Volleyball Championships in Atlanta and Minneapolis. In one of those tournaments, my team played against the USA Deaf Volleyball team!

In graduate school, I went to Disney World to check out an internship program the school had through the recreation, parks, and leisure program. I was also able to travel to Salt Lake City, Utah to volunteer for the National Collegiate Club Volleyball Championships.”

Shingles was intrigued when she came across her current position at Eden Prairie after many years of working in campus recreation. “Similar to many people, my career path took some unexpected turns,” she states. “Originally, my plan was to be a doctor, but I also had a love for languages. While in college, I studied Spanish, Russian, French, and Greek with the intent of going to graduate school for interpretation, and being a translator for the government. Also during this time, I played volleyball and contemplated a career as a collegiate volleyball coach or athletic director, though I realized that recreation was a better fit (philosophy, values, etc.). Through some unexpected twists, I was able to obtain a graduate assistantship at Central Michigan University (CMU) in campus recreation. Although I only had experience in athletics, CMU’s director of campus recreation thought I would be a good fit in recreation and gave me a chance.”

Two years later, in the span of a week, Shingles graduated from graduate school, got married, and moved to Minnesota to start her career in campus recreation at the University of Minnesota.

“Interestingly enough, my father-in-law, husband, and I all worked in the field of campus recreation at the same time,” she adds. For eight years, she worked at the University Recreation and Wellness Center at the University of Minnesota and greatly enjoyed working with students each day and helping them find their life path.

“I became a MRPA member when I began my job at Eden Prairie in April of 2015,” states Shingles. “To learn more about the field, I attended quite a few programming section meetings and the MRPA Annual Conference. Most recently, I served on the planning committee for the first MRPA Athletic Management Institute. I was also a part of the first graduating class of the Facility Management Academy, and I am a part of the athletic management group. I greatly value the opportunity to connect with and learn from my peers in athletic management. Also, the ability to continue my education and learn more about the field of parks and recreation by attending MRPA workshops, has been beneficial to my career.”

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.

Winter 2018 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 5

KEEPING UP Jack Kirk Retires after 41 Years in Parks and Recreation Jack Kirk has worked for the City of Fridley for 41 years, with the last 32 of those years as the director of parks and recreation.

Kirk states, “I am fortunate to have had a great city to work for over the years who has supported my efforts and appreciated the value parks and recreation brings to a community. I am grateful to my wife, family, friends and colleagues.” Kirk has been married to his wife, Deb, for 37 years and they have two children, John and Kristin. They also have four grandchildren that keep him young.

Kirk adds, “Any success that I have had in my career, any accomplishments, was achieved with the help of many other people. I have been extremely fortunate to have some wonderful co-workers over the years - some real star performers that have made me look good.”

L to R: John Kirk (son), Deb Kirk (wife), Jack Kirk, Kristin Schneider (daughter) and Jake Schneider (son-in-law)

City of Chaska | Firemen’s Park Chaska, MN

Kirk has made an impact on MRPA throughout the years. He has been a member of MRPA for 44 years. He served on the Board of Directors for three years and was the Board president in 2012. He has been on countless committees and was part of the Recreational Sports Commission for three years. He received the Clifton E. French Distinguished Service Award recipient in 2013. In addition, he was inducted into the Minnesota USSSA Hall of Fame in 2010.

Kirk was also on the Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation Board of Trustees for twelve years.

He was the Foundation president from 2007 - 2012. In addition, he was also a member of the MRPF scholarship/grant committee for 10 years.

“Parks and recreation is a great field to work in,” states Kirk. “It really comes down to helping people enjoy their life.

And how could you not enjoy working in a profession like this, knowing that you give people more meaning, more satisfaction, and more enjoyment to their lives. Whether it is through the programs and services we offer, or the facilities (like parks, trails, community centers) that we provide. We make a difference in people’s lives every day.”

6 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

We turn your big ideas into unique play solutions that will make your park the envy of communities everywhere.

Create beautiful landscape designs and bring families together for fun, stress-free play. All through the wonder of water.

R E P R E S E N T E D I N M I N N E S O TA B Y :

Winter 2018 â&#x20AC;˘ MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 7

y g

er t

com

pers

Did You Know…

Minnesota,

DID YOU

KN W PA R K S & R E C R E AT I O N

Enriching Life. Inspiring C ommunit y.

Minnesota Recreation and Park Association Did You Know (DYK) program agencies continue to implement the initiative throughout the state. Each magazine issue will highlight how a participating agency is using the program to provide education and advocacy for the community.

New DYK icons:

By: Bethani Gerhard Minnesota Recreation and Park Association New Did You Know (DYK) icons (shown at right ) were unveiled at the 2017 MRPA Annual Conference. The icons link to a major topic such as: community, economic, environmental, etc.

Each icon can be placed next to a statement to help the public and elected officials understand the impact that is trying to be communicated.

The icons will help agencies tell their stories in a clearer way!

The program can be used as much or as little as your agency wants to use it. The DYK committee has developed a starter toolkit to assist agencies with the program implementation. The toolkits contain facts, statement examples, ideas on how the statements are used and sample presentations.

If your agency has not purchased the program and would like to know more about it, please contact Michelle Snider at snider@mnrpa.org and a training session for your agency or region can be arranged. Your agency can join at any time. Most recently, the DYK program welcomed the agencies of Brooklyn Center and Maple Grove, who both joined the program in November of 2017!

Community

Health

Economic

Mental Health

Environmental

Safety

Fitness

Social

Did You Know is active in…

• Albert Lea

• Edina

• Minnetonka

• Austin

• Elk River

• New Brighton

• Becker

• Faribault

• New Ulm

• Bemidji

• Farmington

• Owatonna

• Brooklyn Center • Fridley

• Prior Lake

• Brooklyn Park

• Hutchinson

• Rochester

• Burnsville

• Inver Grove Heights

• Rogers

• Lakeville

• South St. Paul

• Carver County • Chanhassen • Eagan • Eden Prairie

• LeSueur • Maple Grove

• Shakopee • St. Louis Park • Willmar

Show us what you’ve done! Please send examples of how you’ve implemented the DYK program in your community to: gerhard@mnrpa.org.

We may feature you in an upcoming issue of MINNESOTA magazine.

Work in the Minnesota events industry? Join us!

Kidpower with Rachael teaches children the values of kindness and respect through music and live animals.

612-483-4060 • rachaelkroog@gmail.com

www.kidpowerwithrachael.com PLUS: HOLIDAY THEMED SHOWS + SHOWSTOPPERS CABARET MUSIC 8 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Minnesota Festivals & Events Association Annual Conference April 11-13, 2018 Treasure Island Resort & Casino Social Media & Marketing • Sponsorship • Public Relations Volunteer Management • Event Security • And More!

Fees: Through Feb 15: $140 MNFEA member/$180 non-member Feb 16 - March 15: $150/$200 March 16 through start of conference: $180/$220

Register at www.mnfea.com

Come and get it.

Your John Deere Contract is a buffet of great equipment.

From Gator™ Utility Vehicles to Utility Tractors to ZTrak™ Zero-Turn Mowers, the selection is amazing. And there’s no line. Dig in. Find your Contract at JohnDeere.com/local.

The object is simplicity.

72134

Agencies Participate in Race and Equity Cohort

By Bethani Gerhard, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

The Government Alliance on Race and Equity (GARE) is a national network of government agencies working to achieve race equity and advance opportunities for everyone. Throughout 2016 and 2017, local cities, counties and other organizations participated in a cohort of governmental agencies looking to advance racial equity.

The cohort is a partnership between the alliance and League of Minnesota Cities.

“The City of Bloomington sent a cohort of employees to GARE in 2016 and a second cohort in 2017,” says Jim Urie, Bloomington Center for the Arts manager. “Parks and recreation sent two people as a part of the 2017 cohort. Several other government agencies had parks and recreation staff represented in their cohort, and the Minneapolis Parks Board had a cohort of their own.”

Jenna Smith, recreation supervisor with Bloomington Parks and Recreation, also participated in the cohort along with Urie. The Bloomington GARE cohorts developed the following racial equity vision statement: The City of Bloomington

will act courageously to advance racial equity. We will be a vibrant, safe and healthy place where people of all races thrive.

“This statement was adopted by City Council on December 18, 2017,” states Urie. “The GARE cohort also drafted a Racial Equity Action Plan and is developing a Racial Equity Tool Kit that will be used to evaluate city programs and process through a racial equity lens. Working with GARE is one step in our ongoing efforts to bring about racial equity in our community.”

In addition to the City of Bloomington, the agencies that were a part of the 2017 cohort included: Golden Valley, St. Louis Park, Edina, Northfield, Shoreview, St. Anthony Village, White Bear Lake, Woodbury, Dakota County, the Fourth Judicial District, Hennepin County Public Library system, League of Minnesota Cities, Metropolitan Council, Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board and Three Rivers Park District.

“The cohort was a year-long effort of monthly meetings for skill building and strategy development,” says Kevin Frazell, member services director for League of Minnesota Cities. “GARE focuses on how decisions impact communities of color. The outcome is trying to achieve race equity and advance opportunities for everyone. Participants came up with specific strategies, such as staffing and hours of operation, in order to achieve racial equity. We have many agencies signed up for the 2018 cohort as well.”

With the completion of the 2017 cohort, agencies have a race equity action plan, adds Frazell. This includes making park facilities and programming more accessible for everyone, providing transportation to avoid people being geographically isolated, responding to request for service, tackling the federal housing policy and making sure Board and Commissions are reflective of their communities.

For more information, contact Kevin Frazell at kfrazell@lmc.org or 651-281-1215.

GARE focuses on how decisions impact communities of color. The outcome is trying to achieve race equity and advance opportunities for everyone.

10 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

» » » » » »

Your full-service partner to make your next project a reality.

www.msa-ps.com | (800) 362-4505

ADA Audits Aquatic Facilities Architectural Design Athletic Fields/Facilities Campgrounds Community/Recreation Centers » Comprehensive Park & Recreation Plans » Grant Writing & Administration » Infrastructure Survey & Design

» » » » » » » »

Landscape Plans Park Master Plans Playground Safety Audits Public Opinion Surveys & Visioning Recreation Trails, Bridges & Boardwalks Skate Parks Tree Inventories & Assessments Waterfront Improvements

Winter 2018 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 11

Hugo Yellow Ribbon

Network

Building a Strong Community

BY BETHANI GERHARD, MINNESOTA RECREATION AND PARK ASSOCIATION

12 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks â&#x20AC;¢ www.mnrpa.org

Troops enjoy care packages sent to deployed soldiers in Romania.

The Hugo Yellow Ribbon Network’s basic mission is to provide support to military members and their families. That support may be a ride to the VA, snowplowing, car repairs, or help with a major life event that occurs when a spouse is deployed and some assistance is needed.

“Our network distribution list contains names of over 400 volunteers,” states Chuck Haas, chair of Hugo Yellow Ribbon Network (YRN). “Whenever we post help for a military family, there is always an overwhelming response. Whether the need is small or large, our fantastic network volunteers have always answer the call. Once we had a family need a car and someone volunteered to donate a car. Another time a family needed help moving and 15 people showed up to help them.”

The Hugo YRN got started in 2009 when one of their county commissioners, Navy veteran Gary Kriesel, encouraged Hugo to get involved in the Minnesota National Guard’s new Beyond the Yellow Ribbon program. They had a kickoff meeting at Hugo City Hall, with over 100 residents in attendance.

Hugo’s YRN activities have grown from the day it started with the strong support of the Hugo City Council, Hugo Lions, veteran’s groups, local churches, scout troops, many local businesses and the residents of Hugo and surrounding communities.

The network has three signature events: a Welcome Home the Troops Pheasant Hunt (in cooperation with Wild Wings Hunt Club), sending care packages, and a burger night. “We have hosted 18 welcome home hunts,” states Haas.

“About 1,700 soldiers have participated in the hunts, and we have raised over $300,000 to help cover those costs.

Military members go on a guided pheasant hunt with a round of sporting clays, and then are able to enjoy a wild game dinner.”

Winter 2018 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 13

Welcome Home the Troops Hunt

Minnesota’s Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Recognition Program synchronizes community, county and company resources in support of service members, veterans and military families.

The second signature event is sending care packages to the units who are deployed since 2010. “We’ve been keeping track since July of 2012,” states Haas. “The Hugo YRN has shipped over 33,000 pounds of items, along with messages of thanks and support.”

There are also seasonal events such as unit summer and holiday picnics, as well as pre-deployment banquets.

At Christmastime, Hugo’s YRN has a secret Santa program where people go shopping for gifts and the network Santa delivers the gifts in costume.

Hugo’s third event is their monthly burger night at the Hugo American Legion. Originally it began as a network fundraiser, and has grown into so much more. Between 125 and 200 people attend to support the network’s mission each month. “Most importantly, the enormous popularity of burger night has spread the message that soldiers are still deployed overseas, and the community supports our military members and their families,” says Haas.

The network’s volunteer efforts have been recognized by Homeward Bound, which selected Hugo as the nation’s leading mid-sized city in support of military members and their families in 2012. Hugo’s YRN volunteer efforts have also been recognized by the St. Paul Winter Carnival.

14 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

“The Hugo YRN was recently invited to the Wing Awards Ceremony by the 133rd Air Wing of the Minnesota National Guard, recognizing the support to the airmen and their families,” adds Haas.

“Also, our network was sent a four-star

Minnesota’s Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Recognition Program synchronizes community, county and company resources in support of service members, veterans and military families. command coin by General John Allen for our support of one of his command staff, and the staffer’s wife and four children in Hugo, while he was deployed for 16 months to Afghanistan.

Receiving a command coin is a high military honor.”

To become a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon city, many communities go through months of effort to earn the status from the military support organization. A Yellow Ribbon Community typically offers the following: • A support group for veterans at a community level • Helping service members’ families when their spouse is deployed • Assistance in finding employment for veterans • Creates community events for military families and veterans to come together • Provides a “welcome home” event for military men and women • Connecting local businesses and volunteer groups with service members and their families Every year, there are more cities becoming Beyond the Yellow Ribbon communities in the state. Minnesota’s Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Recognition Program synchronizes community, county and company resources in support of service members, veterans and military families. Yellow Ribbon Communities work together with community, nonprofit, state and federal support partners to identify gaps in services to provide support to military residents.

Visit mnbtyr.ng.mil/ for more information.

2018 MRPA CORPORATE MEMBERS Anderson-Johnson Association, Inc. ajainc.net

Kimley-Horn and Associates kimley-horn.com

Anderson Race Management andersonraces.com

Kromer Co. LLC kromerco.com

Radisson Hotel Bloomington radisson.com

Landscape Structures playlsi.com

Rain Bird Corporation rainbird.com

LHB, Inc. lhbcorp.com

RJM Construction rjmconstruction.com

Magic Bounce magicbounce.com

Safety First Playground Surfacing LLC safetyfirstplayground.com

Bituminous Roadways Inc. bitroads.com Bolton & Menk, Inc. bolton-menk.com Busch Architects, Inc. busch-architects.com CBS Squared cbssquared.com Century Fence Company centuryfence.com Commercial Recreation Specialists crs4rec.com Custom Builders Inc. custombuildersmn.com Custom Manufacturing Inc. inwave.com Fahrner Asphalt Sealers LLC fahrnerasphalt.com Flagship Recreation LLC flagshipplay.com Franklin Sports franklinsports.com Gopher gophersport.com GymDandy gymdandy.io Hoisington Koegler Group Inc. hkgi.com Horizon Commercial Pool Supply horizonpoolsupply.com

COMMERCIAL PRINTING AND MAILING 1.888.836.6540 www.page1printers.com

1929 Engebretson Ave. Slayton, MN 56172

Because it has to be done right and right on time.

ISG is-grp.com

McKinstry mckinstry.com Midwest Playscapes Inc midwestplayscapes.com Minneapolis Northwest Convention and Visitors Bureau mplsnw.com Minnesota Twins twinsbaseball.com Minnesota Wisconsin Playground Inc. mnwiplay.com MN United FC mnufc.com MOTI Sports, Inc. motisports.com MSA Professional Services, Inc. msa-ps.com MTI Distributing mtidistributing.com Musco Sports Lighting musco.com Northland Recreation, LLC northlandrec.com Nystrom Publishing nystrompublishing.com Oertel Architects, Ltd. oertelarchitects.com

Play & Park Structures playandpark.com

Sport Court North sportcourtmn.com Sports Technology Inc. sportstechnologyinc.com SRF Consulting Group Inc. srfconsulting.com St. Croix Recreation stcroixrec.com Stantec stantec.com TKDA tkda.com Ultimate Playgrounds ultimateplaygrounds.com USAquatics Inc. usaquaticsinc.com USTA Northern northern.usta.com Valleyfair valleyfair.com Walker Area Community Center walkerwacc.com Webber Recreational Design webberrec.com Wild Mountain wildmountain.com WSB & Associates, Inc. wsbeng.com

Oriental Trading Company funexpress.com

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! Winter 2018 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 15

GoingAbove &Beyond 133rd Airlift Wing 2017 Award Ceremony

BY JENNIFER MCCORKLE, HIWAY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION®

Ribbon (BYR) Network. Hiway’s President/ CEO Dave Boden is chairman of the St. Paul BYR Network, making an even stronger connection between Hiway and the military in our home city.

L to R: Command Chief Master Sergeant Lance Burg, Colonel Robert Hagel, Hiway Associate Savanna Givens, Hiway Associate Scott Burger, Hiway President/CEO Dave Boden, United States Senator Amy Klobuchar, and Colonel Daniel Gabrielli As a credit union, Hiway Federal Credit Union® (Hiway) is a member-owned, notfor-profit financial cooperative. Unlike most banks, we are not owned by stockholders or by a small group of individuals. Rather, we are cooperatively owned — everyone who joins and opens an account of any kind at Hiway is an owner. From a business perspective, we are a full-service financial institution. Our primary function and our stated mission is to be the best lifetime financial partner for all of our members and their families.

At a deeper and more significant level, there is an underlying mission and broader purpose at Hiway. What really defines our organization is not solely providing

traditional financial services, but rather the difference we make to our members and to the many communities we serve. We are passionate about improving and enriching peoples’ lives. This desire to make a difference not only drives us to be a trusted and impactful financial partner for our members, but also to contribute positively to our community in any way we can.

One area where Hiway contributes to our community beyond providing traditional financial services is our support of Minnesota military personnel - past and present servicemembers - and their families. Hiway is very proud to be an official Yellow Ribbon company, and to play a very active role in the St. Paul Beyond the Yellow

16 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

“Hiway is honored to be a Yellow Ribbon company and as chairman of the St. Paul BYR Network, I have the good fortune to work with many people throughout our community who have joined together to build a network of resources to serve our local military and their families,” said Boden. “Servicemembers selflessly serve our state and our country, and of course their families share in that service and sacrifice. Providing them with the resources needed to succeed in their financial lives is one way to give them our thanks and fulfill our mission of being a positive contributor to our community.”

Recently, Hiway was recognized at the 133rd Airlift Wing 2017 Award Ceremony for our involvement with Beyond the Yellow Ribbon and support of Minnesota’s military.

Hiway works with the military community statewide on several initiatives, including reintegration events for returning soldiers that were previously deployed, Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity Veterans Initiative Program, support of the VA Medical Center and the Veterans Campground on Big Marine Lake, Military Association conferences and military family support groups. Hiway also continually collects donations from associates to fill care packages, and ships out a box to troops overseas whenever one gets filled.

To learn more about Hiway and how you can benefit from our outstanding financial services and be part of an organization built on a cooperative foundation, visit hiway.org.

We’re with you on the road of life.

Whether you’re opening your first savings account, financing your education, getting married, buying your first home or planning for retirement, Hiway Federal Credit Union® (Hiway) is here to provide the financial services, resources and support you need at every stage 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.

Call or visit us online!

651.291.1515 | 800.899.5626 | hiway.org

Facebook “f ” Logo

Qualifications apply. Federally insured by NCUA.

CMYK / .ai

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

Winter 2018 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 17

CityArt Sculpture Walk

By Bethani Gerhard, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

Currently there are 27 outdoor sculptures displayed year-round in the City Center of Mankato and North Mankato. Since 2011, artists have been able to place their sculptures for one-year beginning in April. The sculptures are promoted to the public for sale and artists are eligible to win cash awards.

Longtime MRPA corporate member, Bolton & Menk, Inc, has sponsored a sculpture in the Mankato CityArt Sculpture Walk since its inception in 2011. “We have supported this initiative because of the cultural benefits the art walk brings to the area, as well as the positive tourism impacts,” says Dan Sarff, Mankato civil work group leader for Bolton & Menk, Inc. “The sculpture that Bolton & Menk has sponsored has been located in the downtown area of the City of North Mankato, where we have served as the consultant city engineer for over 55 years. This is one way that we give back to a community that has supported us for so many years.”

CityArt is a collaborative program of the City Center Partnership and Twin Rivers Council for the Arts. It is made possible through the efforts, support and generosity of many in the Greater Mankato community, including local governments, non-profit organizations, and businesses through sculpture sponsorships.

added bonus of positive economic impacts that provide a greater sense of connection, areas like the Mankato CityArt Sculpture Tour help create a sense of community – and specifically in an area that ISG has called home for 44+ years.”

There are free guided tours of CityArt, featuring the 27 sculptures from artists across the U.S. The guided tours provide fun facts about each artist and inspiration behind the artwork. There is also a selfguided audio tour that allows people to explore public art in City Center Mankato at their own pace. Visitors can also hear each poem featured on the Mankato Poetry Walk and Ride read by the poet.

Sarff adds, “As I drive through the Mankato and North Mankato downtown areas, I have observed many individuals and groups viewing the sculptures, with map and brochure in-hand, making their way through the self-guided tour. I’m sure that

many of these people are also visiting area restaurants and retail stores in the city center area. In this way, the art walk helps the downtown areas stay vibrant, and also provides a vital connection between the downtown areas of Mankato and North Mankato.”

When the sculpture walk began in 2011, there were 25 sculptures in downtown Mankato and North Mankato aim to make the city centers more of a destination. Lead organizers for the CityArt Walking Sculpture Tour chose the artistic works on diversity in both medium and appearance. This sculpture walk works on a loaner system.

The pieces will remain for one year, when they’ll be taken down and returned to the artists. In addition to the sculpture walk, Mankato has a mini mural that covers a 500foot section of the Mankato flood wall. It depicts a natural river scene bookended by images of fish native to the Minnesota River.

People vote for their favorite sculpture and help choose the People’s Choice Award.

The winning sculpture is purchased by the CityArt program and joins the permanent collection of City Center Public Art. There is $15,000 set aside for that task.

Another MRPA corporate member, ISG, Inc. is a platinum sponsor of CityArt. “Public art is such a critical component to any city,” says Amanda Prosser, senior landscape architect for ISG. “Whether it amplifies engagement and aesthetics, or connects people by offering a chance to slow down and create interaction, public art is more than just sculptures or illustrations. With an

People’s Choice Award – “Maestro” by Lee Leuning and Sherri Treeby 18 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

“5 Cultural Pedestrians” by Sue Quinlan

Winter 2018 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 19

Hutchinson Sculpture Stroll

By Dolf Moon, Hutchinson Parks, Recreation, and Community Education

The Hutchinson Public Arts Commission created its first ever Sculpture Stroll in May of 2013. The Arts Commission is encouraging the display of public art in the City of Hutchinson by providing this mechanism. Public art can play a vital role in transforming the community into a destination. Public art can also acknowledge and celebrate the City’s history through the commemorative art, memorials, and interpretive projects.

The Sculpture Stroll offers seven pieces of public art that are exhibited for one-year. The exhibit opens in May each year. Each artist receives a $1,000 dollar stipend if selected. The artist must provide proof of insurance for the artwork. The artist’s work with maintenance personnel to attach the artwork to a cement pad. The city receives a 15-percent commission if the work of art is sold during the exhibit. The City has purchased one piece, and commissioned two pieces from exhibiting artists since the program started.

One of the benefits of the sculpture stroll is the ability to take a risk without having to own the piece of art. This has exposed the community to a variety of stylistic approaches over the past five years that has definitely created community conversations.

This has helped enrich our community culturally.

FAMILY AMUSEMENT PARK

“Spaulding”

by Heidi Hoy, past Hutchinson Art Walk piece

The Hutchinson Minnesota Public Arts Commission is composed of seven members, six of whom serve staggered three-year terms and one member of the City Council. The director of planning and director of parks, recreation and community education serve as ex-officio members. The Commission acts in an advisory capacity to the City Council and makes recommendations on issues regarding public art within the city limits. Plans are underway for the 2018 version of the Sculpture Stroll. For more information contact dmoon@ci.hutchinson.mn.us.

Let us help create the perfect day of fun & thrills for your group!

Youth Outings | Team Building Corporate Events | Ticket Programs

NEW IN 2018 70’ TALL FAMILY THRILL RIDE 10 REVS/MIN

20 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

One of the benefits of the sculpture stroll is the ability to take a risk without having to own the piece of art.

“Puff” by Tim Adams

Winter 2018 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 21

Reach Hundreds of Park & Rec Professionals French was a remarkable leader of the parks and recreation movement on the local, state, Advertise in MINNESOTA magazine! regional, and national levels.

Rates start at just $225 per issue!

Spring issue deadline: March 16, 2018

View and download the Rate Card at bit.ly/MRPA2018.

Reserve 2018 ad space by contacting Todd Pernsteiner: todd@pernsteiner.com or (952) 841-1111.

From 1964 – By John Schultz - Instructor, Recreation Leadership, University of Minnesota A proposal to change the official name of the MRA will again be brought forth for consideration at the spring conference in St. Cloud. With reference to this proposal, I feel that the issues involved in the constitutional change should once again be brought to the attention of the membership.

The several definitions of the noun, parks, indicate that a park is a place for recreation. The word recreation, denotes a use of one’s leisure time. It is a way of life. Conceivably, proponents for inclusion of the work “park” in the title of the state society might argue that it would be consistent with the movement to create national unity within the profession. The impeding merger of the American Recreation Society and the American Institute of Park Executives (and possibly the National Recreation Association) would seemingly give credence to the proposal. One might even predict that the name of the new united national professional society would include the work park so as to make it more palatable to some of the parties concerned.

It is the function of “recreation” that provides the common ground upon which the profession is based and should be the identifying factor in the professional society. The inclusion of the work “parks” (or hospital or camping, etc.) in the name of the professional society restricts and narrows the foundation of the organization, and instead of creating unity, would result in increasing the diffusion of the profession.

22 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Minnesota Recreation Association changed to Minnesota Recreation and Park Association in 1964

MRPA FLASHBACK

What’s in a Name?

THE BACK PAGE

Target Sports MN Indoor Shooting Range

By Steve Benoit, Elk River Parks and Recreation

The MRPA Editorial Board suggested adding a “human interest” article to the back page of the magazine. In each issue, we will be featuring an article from a member that tells a parks and recreation story from his or her life.

My wife Liz and I, along with another family, became business partners and opened Target Sports MN Indoor Shooting Range in December of 2003. The goal was to create a facility that breaks the stereotypes of a gun range by offering a facility that is welcoming, clean, and provides recreational shooting sports opportunities to participants of any skill level.

Our facility includes a 10-stall indoor shooting range, retail area, and classroom. We offer a variety of classes including basic handgun, MN carry, DNR Firearm Safety,

parent-child intro to firearms, and basic self-defense.

We sponsor the Rogers High School trap team, and offer fundraiser opportunities for local non-profit agencies. Our latest fundraiser was for Brittany’s Place, which provides shelter and support for victims of human trafficking. Target Sports MN has been well received by the community and we look forward to growing our business. One of our customers’ favorite features of our store is our two “range dogs,” Gunner and Rose, that greet customers.

Winter 2018 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 23

MINNESOTA RECREATION AND PARK ASSOCIATION 200 CHARLES STREET NE FRIDLEY, MN 55432

Bossen Field, Minneapolis, MInnesota Made Possible by Minneapolis Park and Rec Board

• Inclusive/Accessible Playgrounds • Play Surfacing • Inspections by CPSI • Relocation/Repair • Exercise/Strength Training • Sport Courts • Shade/Shelter/ Site Furnishings

www.UltimatePlaygrounds.com (612) 460-PLAY • Andrew@UltimatePlaygrounds.com Based in Eden Prairie