Minnesota Recreation & Parks Magazine - Winter 2020

MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks

Volume 15, Issue 1 • Winter 2020

OR O D T U O E U U NIQ ICE N O S T N E EV

www.mnrpa.org

MARCH 24 - 26, 2020 • EAGAN COMMUNITY CENTER • DETAILS INSIDE

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MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks

Publisher Minnesota Recreation and Park Association 200 Charles Street NE, Fridley, MN 55432 www.mnrpa.org Tel: 763.571.1305

MRPA Events Calendar

Editorial Staff Michelle J. Snider Bethani Gerhard

t ts, Join Co n t ra c ent s, m e e r Ag Powers e rit y Us and Prio inar n t s Se m e Doc u m 27 February ey ll a V Apple

Editorial Board Jennifer Fink, New Brighton Lori Hokenson, New Brighton Lucie Patrick, Maple Grove John W. Stutzman, Golden Valley

nt a n a ge me Facility M Series ay 19 March 31-M cations Various Lo

An affiliate of National Recreation and Park Association

Advertising Sales & Design Todd Pernsteiner, Pernsteiner Creative Group info@pernsteiner.com 952.841.1111 MRPA Board of Directors 2019 President: Tom Schmitz, New Ulm President-Elect: Chris Esser, South St. Paul Past President: Boe Carlson, Three Rivers Park District Secretary: Sara McKay, Waseca Treasurer: Dale McCamish, Rochester RSC Chair: Jerome Krieger, Blaine East Metro: Barry Bernstein, Apple Valley East Metro: Andy Soltvedt, Anoka County East Metro: Reed Smidt, Woodbury Northeast Region: Ross Demant, Otsego Northwest Region: Marcia Larson, Bemidji Southern Region: Paul Peanasky, Faribault West Metro: Kelly Mertes, Brooklyn Park West Metro: Sonya Rippe, Plymouth West Metro: Nate Rosa, St. Louis Park 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 by agency members.

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 2020 Issue.......................... March 15, 2020 Summer 2020 issue..........................May 15 , 2020 Fall 2020 issue................................August 1, 2020 Winter 2021 issue.................. November 30, 2020 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.

MRPA Men’s a nd W omen’s St a t e V olleyba ll Tourna ment March 7 Minneto nka Cer tifi ed Play grou nd Sa f e t y Inspec tor Co u r s e a nd E x am March 11-13 Saint P aul

Parks Nort hern ation e and Recr ip h rs e Lea d m Symposiu 6 -2 4 2 March n a g Ea

MRPA S tate Bas ketball Tournam ent March 2 8 -29 Minneto nka

Emerg ing Re creatio L ea de r n s Instit ute (ER Fall 202 LI) 0

Co -Rec MRPA ll olleyba St a t e V n t e m Tourna 29 March nka to e n in M nnua l MRPA A Exhibit n ce a n d e r Confe 0 Hall 202 5 er 22 - 2 b m Septe and rt o s e R Cragun’s ter nce C e n Confere Brainerd

VISIT WWW.MNRPA.ORG TO STAY UP-TO-DATE ON MRPA EVENTS.

TABLE OF CONTENTS From the Board President..................4 Facility Management Series.............12 MRPF “Where are They Now?”.........6 MRPA Flashback................................12 Foundation Corner......................... 6-7 Leadership Symposium...............13-17 2020 MRPA Corporate Members......7 Chill Factor Outdoor Events...... 18-23 MRPA in Action....................................8 Connecting the Park................... 24-25 Meet Scott Heitkamp.........................8 MRPA CorporateConnections... 26-27 Keeping Up........................................10 2020 MINNESOTA Magazine..... 30-31

Winter 2020 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 3

FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT

By Tom Schmitz, MRPA President

Guten Tag und Frohes Neues Jarh members, associates and friends!

Wow, where did 2019 go? This is my final of four presidential columns in our excellent magazine. Thank you for allowing me to be your Association president in 2019. It was exciting and rewarding! Our 2020 president Chris Esser of South Saint Paul is ready to serve.

President-elect Chuck Stifter of Maple Grove will be our president in 2021. A mega thank you to the best Association staff in the world: Michelle Snider, Deb Weinreis and Bethani Gerhard.

A huge thank you to the past board members who just concluded service to our Association at the end of 2019:

Thank you to the other 2020 Board members beginning or continuing a two-year term:

Our annual conference at the Earle Brown Heritage Center in Brooklyn Center was awesome! Thank you to the conference co-chairs Jessie Koch, Kelly Mertes and Paul Pearson, along with all the members of the various committees! Make certain the Annual Conference 2020 at Cragun’s in Brainerd is on your calendar for September 22-25. Co-Chairs Scott Zlotnik and Ross Demant, along with program co-chairs Alyssa Pink, Chelsea Swiggum and Marc Mattice are planning a super conference for us. If you have education session proposals or ideas, please send them soon.

•

Treasurer Dale McCamish, City of Rochester

•

Secretary Sara McKay, City of Waseca

•

Southern Region Paul Peanasky, City of Faribault

•

East Metro Region Reed Smidt, City of Woodbury Lake Johnson, City of Roseville Alex McKinney, Washington County

•

West Metro Region Scott Berggren, City of Crystal, Nate Rosa, City of St. Louis Park Chris Fleck, City of Plymouth

•

Northwest Region Marcia Larson, City of Bemidji

•

Northeast Region Ross Demant, City of Otsego

•

RSC Chair Jerome Krieger, City of Blaine

Congratulations to all the MRPA award recipients: •

•

Past President Boe Carlson, Three Rivers Park District

Clifton E. French Award Cindy Walsh, City of St. Louis Park

•

•

West Metro Kelly Mertes, City of Brooklyn Park Sonya Rippe, City of Plymouth

Jack Niles Award Steve Benoit, City of Elk River John W. Stutzman, City of Golden Valley

•

•

East Metro Barry Bernstein, City of Apple Valley Andy Soltvedt, Anoka County

Dorothea Nelson Award Lisa Abernathy, City of St. Louis Park

•

Horizon Award Jessie Koch, City of Plymouth

•

Tommy Johnson Award Three Rivers Park District

•

Board and Commission Award Michael Palmer, City of Eagan

It was great to see so many of our members and friends at the Annual General Meeting on January 10, 2020. Thank you to the New Brighton Community Center for hosting in their fantastic facility!

Our Awards of Excellence application period is upon us. Please consider applying in one or more of our categories.

There are excellent projects, programs and initiatives taking place all over our great state.

Make certain to register by February 12 for our Northern Parks and Recreation Leadership Symposium March 24-26, 2020 at the Eagan Community Center. This is a rare opportunity for us to have such a major leadership training in our backyard.

Keep your skis and boards waxed, and your skate edges sharpened. Be certain to enjoy our awesome outdoor winter recreation activities. It sure is a privilege working in our fun and year-round industry. Everyone should keep getting out to enjoy the multitude of seasonal recreational opportunities. Make certain you and yours get a winter vacation to recreate at one of your favorite locations.

Also, remember that sauerkraut counts as one of your daily servings of vegetables and German mustard is naturally low in both sodium and sugar. Prost!

4 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

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FOUNDATION CORNER

By John W. Stutzman, CPRP, MRPF President

The year 2020 will be a big year for MRPF as we look at our organization and its services due to the rapid growth in recent years. Having experienced the highest documented membership numbers on record last year, as well as the recent influx of generous donations, the Board of Trustees is exploring new areas to positively impact the parks and recreation profession. To guide us down these new paths, the top priority in 2020 is to develop a strategic plan to create a foundation to build upon our past successes, and prepare for the future.

Through this process, we plan to seek out new ways to provide value to our members by increasing financial support for education opportunities, engage and promote a more diverse membership, and deliver new networking and fundraising events allowing retired, professional and student members to connect.

MRPF continues to take great pride in enhancing the quality of life in Minnesota, as the only non-profit organization solely dedicated to parks and recreation and the support of the Minnesota Recreation and Park Association. If there are ways you would like to see MRPF better serve our membership, please contact me at jstutzman@goldenvalleymn.gov.

DID YOU KNOW… The Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation…

• Extends its gratitude to our outgoing Board members: Marcia Bach, Dr. Brooke Burk, and Nicole Gorman.

Brooke has been instrumental in our membership communication and student engagement. Nicole has been invaluable with dedication to increasing membership and managing our growing budget. Marcia has provided over three decades of service and passion to our organization. Thank you all for dedication and leadership!

• Awarded three, $2,000 student scholarships and one, $2,000 professional graduate scholarship at the MRPA Annual Conference in November. Congratulations to our 2019 recipients: Alexis Burton (Winona State University), Grant Fogt (Winona State University), Savannah Kundert (Minnesota State University – Mankato), and John Stutzman (City of Golden Valley/University of Wisconsin LaCrosse). Special thanks to scholarship financial partners: Fran Callahan Memorial, Hiway Federal Credit Union, and Stantec.

• Presented the second annual Ed Brandeen Cornerstone Award at the MRPA Annual General Meeting to longtime member and Board member Jack Kirk in recognition of his outstanding service and leadership for the Foundation. Congratulations Jack and thank you for your service to MRPF. • Completed our election for three Board positions to serve a three-year term (2020-2022) in December of 2019? Please help us welcome our new Board members: Jennifer Fink, Kristi Montandon, Aimee Peterson, and Alicia Watts.

• Is providing four $500 scholarships (50% of tuition) for members wishing to attend the NEW MRPA Northern Parks and Recreation Leadership Symposium March 24-26 in Eagan.

Scholarships are intended to provide financial support for those professionals who wouldn’t otherwise be able to attend the symposium due to agency budget limitations. Applications can be found on at www.mnrpf.org/scholarships and are due by February 21.

MRPF Student Scholarship Recipient: Where are They Now? Ali Lukin: 2004 Recipient membership, she learned about the MRPF student scholarships. The rest of the story is history.

As most parks and recreation stories go, while attending college at Winona State University, Ali took a filler class called ‘Intro to Recreation.’ It was during this class, Barry Bernstein, director for Apple Valley Parks and Recreation, attended and inspired her to change her major to recreation tourism. The inspirational professional advice guided Ali’s discovery of MRPA membership. Through this

After the selection of her MRPF scholarship, Ali’s new-found academic confidence helped develop new goals centered on a career in the parks and recreation field. In addition to her success in the classroom, she began to accumulate impressive field experience while working seasonal positions for the YMCA, the City of Roseville, Winona Public Schools Afterschool Program, and the City of Maplewood.

As a recent graduate in November 2006, her professional journey officially began when she was hired as a permanent parttime recreation coordinator for the City of Savage. She spent the next eight years working with youth and family programs.

From there, her career path featured many

6 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

turns in a winding road of opportunities with the cities of West St. Paul, Lino Lakes, and Forest Lake Community Education.

Each opportunity led to new and valuable experiences. Throughout all of these turns, one constant remained: her passion for figure skating. Following this passion, she has continued to serve as figure skating coach for White Bear Lake Sports Center throughout her entire parks and recreation career.

Today, Ali is happily married to her husband Tom and has two children Josephina and Colby. With a wonderful family at home, she was thrilled to join a new professional family as a member of the team at New Brighton Parks and Recreation. As a recreation coordinator, she is excited about making new connections with the community and the amazing staff.

2020 MRPA CORPORATE MEMBERS

• 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 the participation of members who would not otherwise have the opportunity to develop their leadership and experience the benefits and professional growth associated with attending a national conference or training. The grant application and detailed information will be available online in early February. Thank you to Webber Recreational Design for sponsoring this initiative.

• Members and their organizations can apply for up to $4,000 of funding with a MRPF New Initiative Grant.

We support our members and their innovative new programming opportunities. Grants are available through two cycles in 2020, a spring deadline is Friday, March 27.

Applications can be found on at www.mnrpf.org/grants • Membership drive wrapped up at the Annual General Meeting. We head into the New Year with 85 MRPF members to-date. As part of the membership drive, MRPF is excited to award Dr. Rachelle Fuller, Professor at Minnesota State University – Mankato, with a free registration to the 2020 MRPA Conference in Brainerd.

Didn’t get your membership submitted yet? Membership is only $25 (retirees $20, students $10) and is a tax-deductible donation? Visit our new website at www.MNRPF.org for more information on becoming a member today!

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THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING MRPA! Winter 2020 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 7

MRPA IN ACTION NEW - MRPA Network Structure Launches in 2020 The MRPA Board of Directors approved the MRPA Section, Committee, and Network Review Committee’s recommendation on the following new and revitalized networks: • Annual Conference: Plans the Association’s largest event with the following focus areas: educational sessions, exhibit hall, networking event, volunteers, logistics, and sponsorships • Aquatics: Dedicated to the management, staffing, programing, operation, and legal considerations of running indoor and outdoor pools and beaches • Athletic Management: Shares best practices, and current and future trends with sports-minded professionals, while cultivating strategic partnerships in the ever-evolving world of recreational sports.

• Awards: Offers statewide recognition programs for members agencies and professionals • Communications: Participates within the Association’s communications channels: editorial board, online forum, social media, and/ or print and website management • Facilities: Provides forums for information exchange related to facility management and operations • Leadership Development: Develops leadership abilities and attitudes to improve the skills and confidence of leaders through trends, best practices, and management networks

• Legislative: Monitors state and federal legislation and educates decision-makers on topics impacting the profession in accordance with the annual legislative platform • Member Resources: Enhances member relations and professional development opportunities • Programming: Provides education, networking, and resources for professionals who develop programs, outdoor recreation, and special events related to youth, teens, adults, and active aging • Young Professional and Student: Inspires and engages new members of the profession to network and pursue professional growth

Someone You Should Know: Scott Heitkamp Scott Heitkamp’s father, Brett Heitkamp, was involved in the parks and recreation profession for most of Scott’s childhood.

“I always had a passion for the profession, but it never clicked in my head until I began my college career,” states Heitkamp, recreation programmer for Burnsville Parks and Recreation. “One day, it finally clicked that I felt I was meant to work in this field. I enjoy every day that I am in this profession, and I know it will continue to be that way for the remainder of my career.”

Heitkamp worked as a playground leader and t-ball coach as his first job. “I worked for my hometown in

the recreation department throughout high school and my early college years,” he says.

“Every single job I’ve had has had something to do with parks and recreation.”

Heitkamp adds, “I was first involved in MRPA in 2014, when I volunteered at my first conference. From there, I worked my way to being more and more involved in MRPA.” Some of the committees and groups he has been involved with are: Athletic Management Group, Young Professional and Student Network original committee member, programming committee for the MRPA Annual Conference, and on the Recreational Sports

Committee. He also has been involved in the Foundation Silent Auction Committee at the MRPA Annual Conference.

Heitkamp says, “Knowledge and relationships have to be the two that stand out to me right away. A lot of people involved with MRPA will say networking, which is very true, but I believe the knowledge gained by being around other professionals is second to none.

I have made professional and personal relationships through MRPA, and that is something you cannot acquire if you are not involved. MRPA is an outstanding organization that serves people outside of just the members.”

“I believe the knowledge gained by being around other professionals is second to none.

I have made professional and personal relationships through MRPA, and that is something you cannot acquire if you are not involved.”

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.

8 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

KEEPING UP Sarah Hansen Receives the NRPA Young Professional Fellowship Congratulations to Sarah Hansen for receiving the young professional fellowship from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) in 2019. The fellowship provides selected young professionals (up to four) with the opportunity to explore the operation of National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) and its governing bodies at the NRPA Annual Conference. Participants meet with NRPA leadership and attend various conference sessions and meetings with their assigned mentor. A primary focus of the program is to inspire future participation and leadership in NRPA and to develop professional contacts with NRPA professionals from around the nation.

City of New Hope Receives a New City Hall and Police Station Hundreds of local residents and business members attended the open house celebration of the City of New Hope’s new city hall and police station on November 14, 2019.

The Mayor of New Hope, Kathi Hemken, began the celebration sharing the history of the facility coming to life and dedicating the building to New Hope residents and businesses. New Hope City Council cut the ribbon on the opening of New Hope City Hall and Police Station. Those in attendance were able to take a tour of the facility, seeing how it will serve the community for years to come.

NRPA members under 35 with 2-10 years of experience in parks and recreation who want to want to attend the conference and grow their professional network are encouraged to apply. Applications for the 2020 NRPA Annual Conference are accepted until March 27, 2020.

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Facility Management Series SPRING 2020

Presented by:

March 31 through May 21, 2020 • Apply today at mnrpa.org!

MRPA Facility Management Series is a professional development program designed to provide a focused examination of facility planning, development, and operations. The discussions will involve professionals and consultants sharing their experience and expertise, and taking a deeper dive into facility master planning, design development, bidding/construction documents, and construction of small to larger parks, trails, and unique and special use facilities.

Five one-day classes will be held this spring providing in-depth information on facilities in Anoka County, Brooklyn Park, St. Louis Park, and Elk River.

Facility-specific discussions will include: trails, playgrounds, aquatics, turf dome, nature center, parks, arenas, and a senior center.

Learning outcomes are centered on the following topics: · Multiple Approaches to Community and Stakeholder Engagement · Plans and Specifications · Bid Documents · Design · Funding · Local, State and Watershed Permit Process · Design with Maintenance in Mind Sessions run 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., March 31, April 14 and 28, and May 19 and 21. The member rate is $299 and includes 2.0 continuing education units. Registration includes materials and lunches. The class is designed for a minimum of 20 and maximum of 40 participants.

Registration deadline: March 24, 2020.

Contracts and Agreements: The Different Types and How They’re Used Seminar

MRPA FLASHBACK

Thursday, February 27, 2020 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Apple Valley Community Center 14603 Hayes Road, Apple Valley, MN 55124 This seminar offers helpful information for all levels of professionals - whether you’re a recreation programmer, facility manager, or director.

Presenter Chris Smith will describe the different types of contracts and agreements, and how they may be used within parks and recreation departments. Discussion topics include: Joint Powers Agreements; Priority Use Documents; • Cooperative Agreements; and • Shared Use Contracts.

• •

Chris will provide examples and hands-on learning exercises of real situations that have happened to illustrate the power of contracts and agreements.

Seminar Fees: Member Rate, $49 Non-Member Rate, $69 Includes .25 CEUs and lunch Register at www.mnrpa.org or email Bethani at gerhard@mnrpa.org for a registration form.

12 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Flashback: 1940

This is the delegate brochure cover from the first annual conference, held at the Hotel Lowry in Saint Paul in 1940. The next annual conference was held at the Curtis Hotel in Minneapolis in 1941.

Northern Parks and Recreation Leadership Symposium March 24 - 26, 2020

Eagan Community Center 1501 Central Parkway Eagan, MN 55121

M R PA’ S N E W 2 0 2 0 L E A D E R S H I P P R O G R A M Northern Parks and Recreation Leadership Symposium Leadership skills are essential to advance both personally and professionally. Leaders must seek out opportunities to learn, explore, and take risks. Leaders challenge themselves first, before challenging others -- all for the betterment of the organizations and people they serve.

Minnesota Recreation and Park Association (MRPA) is committed to elevating our profession and preparing professionals with the leadership skills needed to advance in one’s career with the introduction of the new Northern Parks and Recreation Leadership Symposium. This threeday professional development symposium is designed for parks and recreation mid- and senior management professionals.

The program director and faculty will challenge participants to create a vision for their work. Participants will explore their leadership strengths, learn new skills, and discover how they can align individual and organizational development. Attendees will expand their critical thinking to encompass the characteristics needed to drive change and build accountability within organizations.

This program includes case studies, experiential activities, and a curriculum focused on the following four areas: • Positioning the Profession • Navigating the Political Environment • Understanding the Finances • Mastering the Art of Negotiation and Communication

Symposium curriculum topics include: PERSONAL LEADERSHIP Upper level parks and recreation managers spend the majority of their time leading the agency and staff who provide the services.

Oftentimes, the professional and personal attributes of the leader get put on the back burner. This session will place the leadership focus on the personal level of senior managers.

UNDERSTANDING THE PARKS AND RECREATION PROFESSION The parks and recreation profession, when administered to do so, can address a variety of social issues that routinely plague a community.

Great parks and recreation agencies see past the programs and services they offer to focus on the needs of our communities and the people that we serve.

COMMANDING A PRESENCE IN YOUR COMMUNITY The citizens you work for need to know what your agency is all about, what your department stands for, and what separates you from other municipal services. It is important that you find the ways to link your citizens to their park and recreation agency that they own.

BEYOND THE BUDGET The budget is about revenues and expenses.

However, beyond the budget, a leader must understand “financial strategy.” These strategies include: understanding of bonding, tax levies, park foundations, and big picture government finance. There is money, if you know where to look for it.

STAYING AHEAD OF NEGATIVE POLITICS THROUGH EFFECTIVE PLANNING We all operate in a highly political environment and that will probably never change. What we must learn to do is to stay ahead of negative politics by operating an agency centered around planning. Responsible planning, involving those that govern us and the people we serve, is the key to rising above any negative politics.

HUMAN RESOURCES AND BUILDING YOUR TEAM Does a great resume bring you the best new hires? We think not. This session will delve into how to spot those that will eventually be great and how to train them to get there.

CONTROLLING YOUR MESSAGE THROUGH PROACTIVE MEDIA PLACEMENT If you do not control your message, the media will, and you may not like it. You are GREAT, but are you selling it?

THE TRUST EDGE Trust is a fundamental, bottom-line issue that leads to greater creativity, productivity, freedom, and results. When organizations have a high-trust culture, they experience highly efficient teams, achieving maximum results with positive morale.

Many parks and recreation professionals encounter complex and challenging situations that require them to strategically lead the department’s direction and effectiveness. This curriculum provides vital tools to help them achieve those goals.

POSITIONING | NAVIGATING | UNDERSTANDING | MASTERING Winter 2020 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 13

Daily Schedule TUESDAY, MARCH 24

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25

THURSDAY, MARCH 26

8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Arrival and Breakfast

Breakfast

Breakfast

Morning Sessions

Morning Sessions

Morning Sessions

Lunch

Lunch

Lunch

Afternoon Sessions

Afternoon Sessions

Afternoon Sessions

Dinner

Topic-Solving Exercise

Final Discussion and Next Steps

Case Studies

Dinner

Departure

Director and Faculty Thomas J. O’Rourke Leadership Symposium Director Tom O’Rourke is currently a professor of practice at Clemson University in the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management. He is responsible for teaching at the graduate and undergraduate levels and working with other faculty to assist communities, agencies, and practitioners in a variety of capacities. Tom’s focus at Clemson is in creating innovative and entrepreneurial models and solutions to issues facing the parks and recreation field. Tom is also is the executive director of the Parklands Foundation of Charleston County, a non-profit organization that provides access to parks for the underserved communities in Charleston County.

Tom previously served as the executive director of Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission (CCPRC) until his retirement, leading the agency though the largest capital project, budget, and attendance growth in the agency’s history. During Tom’s tenure at CCPRC, the agency grew from 5,000 acres of parkland to over 12,000 acres of protected parkland. CCPRC has been nationally recognized for operating an ever-expanding park system with little reliance on tax subsidies for growth.

Educating professionals in the parks and recreation profession has always been a significant part of Tom’s work. He is a frequent presenter at numerous state, national and international conferences. He also has served as a member of the Board of Regents for the Revenue Development and Management School, the Supervisors Management School, and also the National Recreation and Park Association Directors School. Tom was named director of the Parks Foundations School, which will be held in Oglebay, West Virginia.

Prior to joining CCPRC, Tom was the director of the Mt. Pleasant Recreation Department in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, and also worked as manager of the Sports and Recreation Division for Seamon Whiteside and Associates, a landscape architect and engineering firm.

Tom’s first job was as a high school athletic director and coach.

Tom was recently elected as council member for the Town of Mt. Pleasant, in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina. Recreation is Tom’s profession, but his passion has always been coaching. He is currently a track and field coach (pole vault), He has coached state championship teams and numerous state qualifying pole vaulters.

Participants will explore their leadership strengths, learn new skills, and discover how they can align individual and organizational development.

POSITIONING | NAVIGATING | UNDERSTANDING | MASTERING

14 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Jen Basham Leadership Symposium Faculty Jen Basham is the parks and leisure services director for Stephenville, Texas, a community of 20,000 on the outskirts of Dallas-Fort Worth. This multi-faceted department covers traditional and innovative parks and recreation and expands to some more interesting and unique opportunities including a regional airport and historical museum.

Jen is also the incoming north region director for the Texas Recreation and Park Society, a Commission for Accreditation of Parks and Recreation Agencies site visitor, and speaker at local, state, and national conferences. Her passion is to empower current and future leaders to bleed the impact of our field into the communities we serve.

Registration Fee The registration rate is $995 for MRPA members and other professionals who are members of their state association, and $1,395 for non-members.

The fee includes curriculum and meals.

Lodging is not included in the registration fee as we understand some participants may prefer to drive each day to the symposium to save funding rather than include a hotel stay. Please note all registrants are expected to commit to each day’s activities, with some activities extending into the evenings. Please consider the time commitment before registering.

Submission Deadline Applications due by February 19, 2020.

Continuing Education Units (CEUs) 1.5 CEUs

Location Paul Gilbert Leadership Symposium Faculty Paul Gilbert is the executive director for Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NOVA) Parks. He leads a regional park agency in the suburbs of Washington, D.C. with 34 regional parks covering over 12,000 acres. NOVA Parks specializes in unique destinations, and has a cost recovery of 87%. Over Paul’s 14-year tenure, the agency has grown its lands by 20%, and revenues by 100%.

Paul is also executive in residence for the Recreation Management Program at George Mason University. Additionally, he is the author of two books: High Performance Agencies, the Entrepreneurial Model for Park, Recreation, and Tourism; and Lead Like a General, Modern Research on Leadership as Seen through the Civil War. He has served as a past regent and chair of the Revenue Development and Management School, and as past chair of the Fairfax County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Eagan Community Center 1501 Central Parkway Eagan, MN 55121 The community center is located eight miles from the Minneapolis/ Saint Paul International Airport.

Hotel Accommodations Residence Inn Minneapolis/Saint Paul/Eagan 1560 Quarry Road Eagan, MN 55121 The hotel is one-half mile from the Eagan Community Center.

Call 888.236.2427 or locally at 651.452.6020 to make your hotel reservation by March 2, 2020. Ask for the MRPA rate of $98/night plus tax.

Questions?

Call MRPA at 763.571.1305 x100, or email snider@mnrpa.org

Sponsored by

POSITIONING | NAVIGATING | UNDERSTANDING | MASTERING Winter 2020 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 15

Northern Parks and Recreation Leadership Symposium Registration Registration Deadline is February 19, 2020 (Please print clearly)

Agency: First Name: Last Name: Address: City:

Work Tel: (

)

State: Cell: (

Zip:

)

Email: Years of Experience: List Any Special and/or Dietary Needs:

Top Three Themes: What are the top three issues you are experiencing within your agency?

Registration: The registration fee includes education and curriculum materials and meals. The registration fee does not include lodging. Complete this form or register at mnrpa.org.

• $995 for MRPA members and other professionals who are members of their state association • $1,395 for non-members

Mail Form and Payment to: MRPA Northern Parks and Recreation Leadership Symposium 200 Charles Street NE Fridley, MN 55432 A confirmation will be emailed to you upon receiving your registration form and payment.

Payment Method:

n Check Enclosed

n Check Requested

n Paid Online at mnrpa.org and

emailed this form to snider@mnrpa.org Payment Amount: $____________

POSITIONING | NAVIGATING | UNDERSTANDING | MASTERING

16 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

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Winter 2020 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 17

UNIQUE OUTDOOR EVENTS ON ICE

By Bethani Gehard, Minnesota Recreation & Park Association

ShamROC Ice Bowling in St. Louis Park

18 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

FIRE & ICE IN PLYMOUTH Fire & Ice is a fun-filled event for all ages held at Parkers Lake in Plymouth every February. This year’s event was held on February 1. There was recycling bin races, youth ice fishing contest, hayrides, pony and sled-dog rides, miniature golf on the ice, snow bowling, recreational skating, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

This was the 31st-annual festival held at Parkers Lake. Fire & Ice is a free winter event, thanks to sponsorships from the City of Plymouth, Plymouth Civic League, TCF Bank, CCX Media,

and Plymouth Rotary. Food trucks were available on site during the event.

New events this year included a winter activities scavenger hunt and Fire & Ice coloring contest. “Prizes were awarded to four age categories: including preschool, ages five and younger, ages 6-8, ages 9-12, and teens ages 13-18,” says Alyssa Fram, recreation supervisor for Plymouth Parks and Recreation. “First-place winners in each category received a $30 gift card, while second-place winners received a $15 gift card.”

“Once the cold sets in, visitors warmed up by a crackling bonfire with s’mores and hot chocolate sponsored by Step by Step Montessori,” says Fram. “And later

during the day, a performance by Kevin Hall, Maniac of Magic was held at 5:15 p.m. followed by Skol Drumline at 6:00 p.m. The finale of the event was fireworks, sponsored by the Plymouth Civic League, beginning around 6:30 p.m.”

In addition to the Fire & Ice event, the annual medallion hunt began in January with a clue in the Plymouth Sun Sailor.

“Clues are posted on the City of Plymouth’s website, all four-weeks leading up to Fire & Ice, or until someone finds the medallion,” states Fram. “A $250 prize was awarded to the first sleuth who finds the medallion.”

For more information on the Plymouth Fire & Ice event, visit www.plymouthmn.gov

Fire & Ice Medallion Hunt

Winter 2020 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 19

“THERE WERE THREE POND HOCKEY RINKS ON THE DRIVING RANGE AT AN AREA GOLF CLUB,” SAYS GARY HINES, BOARD PRESIDENT FOR THE MINNESOTA YOUTH FOUNDATION. “THE HOCKEY FESTIVAL WENT REALLY WELL. THE HAPPINESS AROUND THE EVENT IS REALLY FUN TO WATCH.”

GRANITE CITY OUTDOOR HOCKEY FESTIVAL What was once known as the Granite City Pond Hockey Championships on Lake George in St. Cloud received a new name of Granite City Outdoor Hockey Festival in February 2019, and moved to a golf course.

“There were three pond hockey rinks on the driving range at an area golf club,” says Gary Hines, Board president for the Minnesota Youth Foundation. “The hockey festival went really well. The happiness around the event is really fun to watch.”

The Minnesota Youth Foundation is a non-profit corporation that was organized in 2011 with the goal of making athletic activities more accessible to area youth. Their goal is to raise funds through special events and use the proceeds to benefit area non-profit organizations that pertain to youth athletic based activities in order to promote and develop healthy habits and lifestyles.

More information can be found at gcpondhockey.com

According to Hines, the hockey rink boards were placed on the driving range and flooded during the month of December in 2018.

Volunteers and members of Minnesota Youth Foundation donated their time to flood the rinks. Minnesota Youth Foundation members and volunteers also put up warming tents near the hockey rinks.

Hines adds, “I’ve been involved in youth hockey for years. This event is a lot of work, but it’s worth it.” Hines became the Board president of the Minnesota Youth Foundation, which began in 2011.

The following year the Granite City Pond Hockey Championships began on Lake George in St. Cloud.

In 2018, the tournament took the year off because Hockey Day Minnesota was held on Lake George in St. Cloud. “We took that year to plan the event, and hold the Granite City Outdoor Hockey Festival in 2019 at the golf course,” adds Hines. “The event won’t be happening in 2020, but hopefully it will be brought back in the winter of 2021.”

20 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Winter 2020 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 20

Photos: City of Golden Valley

“EVERYONE HAS BEEN REALLY EXCITED,” SAYS BEN DISCH, OPERATIONS MANAGER AT BROOKVIEW GOLF & LAWN BOWLING. “IT’S BEEN GREAT WATCHING PEOPLE GET INTRODUCED TO THE SPORT OF CURLING IN A FUN, RECREATIONAL ENVIRONMENT.”

OUTDOOR CURLING IN GOLDEN VALLEY Brookview in Golden Valley debuted its brand new curling rinks on November 8, 2019. There are four outdoor synthetic curling rinks on the site of the lawn bowling green. This helps fill a growing demand for curling opportunities in the metro area.

“Everyone has been really excited,” says Ben Disch, operations manager at Brookview Golf & Lawn Bowling.

“It’s been great watching people get introduced to the sport of curling in a fun, recreational environment.”

According to Disch, there are three leagues that play during the week – Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights. The curling leagues are great for beginners and casual curlers, or anyone looking for a challenge. “We just completed our five-week fall league,” he adds. “Our seven-week winter league starts soon. The curling rinks will be out until the snow melts, weather depending, so probably sometime in March.”

Curling rentals are available for league play and for rent on an hourly basis. The rates are $15 per hour or $125 per team. Single rink rentals can be reserved up to seven days in advance. Groups may reserve single rinks or all four rinks for private events. Visit brookviewgolf.com for more information.

Winter 2020 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 21

“THE ROC HAS BEEN A TREMENDOUS COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AMENITY FOR THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK. ST. PATRICK’S DAY PROVIDES A GREAT HOLIDAY SETTING TO PARTNER A NEW AND CREATIVE OPPORTUNITY TO GET THE COMMUNITY OUTSIDE AND EXCITED FOR SPRING.”

SHAMROC ICE BOWLING IN ST. LOUIS PARK The City of St. Louis Park is creating the un-official event to the start of spring, ShamROC Ice Bowling. The event is scheduled for March 14, from noon - 9 p.m.

Minnesota Festivals & Events Association 2020 Annual Conference Duluth, MN • March 11-13 Valuable information and networking for event and festival professionals, vendors, and service providers!

Early Bird Registration: thru January 31, 2020 MNFEA Members $140 • Non-Members $180 Regular Registration: February 1 - March 8, 2020 MNFEA Members $160 • Non-Members $200 Late/Onsite Registration: March 9-13, 2020 MNFEA Members $180 • Non-Members $220

Full details and registration at www.mnfea.com.

22 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

“As the outdoor ice season comes to an end at the ROC (Recreation Outdoor Center), staff will take advantage of this opportunity to decorate the ice green,” says Kori Shingles, recreation and facilities supervisor. “We will install bowling lanes to create the innovative setting necessary for ShamROC Ice Bowling. Half of the ROC ice will have 10 bowling alleys setup. The other half will be covered with carpet, and operated as a food and beverage area with entertainment provided by our marketing sponsor KS95.”

She adds, “The ROC has been a tremendous community engagement amenity for the City of St. Louis Park. St. Patrick’s Day provides a great holiday setting to partner a new and creative opportunity to get the community outside and excited for spring.”

According to Shingles, they are anticipating 150 teams for this first-time event, with a total attendance of 800-1,000 people.

Participants will take on the challenge of bowling on ice for the chance to win fabulous prizes. Teams consist of four bowlers that will bowl four frames each (7th, 8th, 9th and 10th frames).

Prizes will be awarded for bowling a strike in a frame, high individual scores and high team scores. For further information, visit shamrocicebowling.com

WINTER KITE FESTIVAL IN MINNEAPOLIS Kites of all shapes, sizes, colors and themes flew over Lake Harriet on January 25 from 1 – 4 p.m. This was the 19th Annual Winter Kite Festival. Attendees either brought their own kites, or were able to buy an inexpensive one at the event.

The Winter Kite Festival has been taking place on the north end of the lake, near the Lake Harriet Band Shell, for almost two decades. The Minnesota Kite Society experts demonstrated their skills flying specialized kites throughout the day. They also offered their advice and tips to those who were new to flying kites.

Also offered at the Winter Kite Festival was a kids’ ice-fishing skills event and safety tips, offered by Tips Outdoors.

Equipment and permits for children were provided. For kids and adults looking to take a break and warm up, there were fire pits by the Lake Harriet Band Shell, along with marshmallows to roast.

Naturalists from Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board were on-site with snowshoes for attendees to try, which was a new addition to this year’s festival. Also available were fat-tire bikes to ride in the snow, as well as a heated tent with entertainment.

Visit minneapolisparks.org for more information.

Winter 2020 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 23

BRAINERD SANTA PAWS

By Tony Sailer, City of Brainerd A few dogs were a little shy about approaching the Jolly Old Elf, but Santa Claus made friends quickly with a bag of treats as the Brainerd Parks and Recreation Department hosted “Santa Paws” at the Buster Dog Park on December 14, 2019.

This was the inaugural Santa Paws event and, despite a chilly afternoon, plenty of dogs came to get their pictures taken with Santa. And best of all, Santa had a bag of treats for each dog.

As the Brainerd Parks and Recreation Director, I was also “Santa.” This event is one of those simple, easy to do events, that takes very little time and effort. So many people were so happy to have their dogs have their pictures taken with Santa. Sometimes it’s the small things that mean so much to so many people.

Santa Paws was one of many dog-based events this year at Buster Dog Park. Earlier in the year, the Brainerd Parks and Recreation Department hosted an Easter ball hunt, where dogs

NEW BRIGHTON’S OUTDOOR RESURFACING INVENTION

24 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

searched for and collected tennis balls, and a Howl-O-Ween costume party.

In a smaller community like Brainerd, the people who visit Buster Park have become like family, and the dogs all look forward to playing with their friends. By having the various activities at Buster Park everyone – the people and their pets – get to have a little more fun.

A Zamboni® resurfaces indoor ice to make it glossy, but outdoor ice can take staff hours to scrape and smooth the ice. The City of New Brighton’s maintenance department made their own outdoor ice resurfacer to make it easier to clear the ice at their rinks during the winter.

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Winter 2020 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 25

Connecting the Park

By Luke Wheeler and Matt Blazer, Bolton & Menk

In a world of planes, trains, and automobiles, more and more travelers are opting to walk or use bicycles—an environmentally and economically friendlier way to get around their communities.

As a community that strives to lead in progressive and innovative public initiatives, the City of St. Louis Park made it a priority to ensure both pedestrians and bicyclists have the necessary facilities to make safe and efficient trips by initiating their Connect the Park plan in 2012.

Connect the Park is the city’s 10-year plan to construct a comprehensive, citywide network of bikeways, sidewalks, and trails enabling residents access to nearby facilities to travel about the city.

Each year, several Connect the Park segments are completed as they move toward their goal of a fully-connected city.

When possible, projects are aligned with planned capital improvement projects and the city’s engineering staff uses community engagement and feedback to help guide each project’s designs.

This year, the 1.5 mile reconstruction of Cedar Lake Road, a collector street from Kentucky Avenue to Quentin Avenue, provided a great opportunity for the

city to implement critical pedestrian and bikeway connections that were part of their Connect the Park plan.

Cedar Lake Road serves as a major regional connection for sidewalks and bikeways and allows for significant future expansion of their grid system. It also connects several existing and planned bikeways to the North Cedar Lake Regional Trail, and connects pedestrians and bicyclists to the popular commercial destination – The Shops at West End. The Cedar Lake Road project, which just finished construction in November, 2019, included utility improvements, pavement rehabilitation, lighting improvements, intersection improvements, a roundabout, and a revamped corridor section that achieves safer and more efficient travel for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians.

Pedestrian Enhancements For a majority of the project area, the only pedestrian facility was a 5-foot wide sidewalk on the north side of the road. This provided limited options for local residents looking to exercise, use transit, or travel to destinations by foot, including nearby shops and restaurants.

26 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

While adding a sidewalk on the south side of the road would have been the simple solution, the city elected to go above and beyond to improve the safety and functionality for pedestrians using the corridor. Specific pedestrian enhancements included narrowing intersections to provide shorter crossing lengths and increased sight lines; providing median refuges at key crossing locations; installing rectangular rapid flash beacon (RRFB) systems at the highestdensity crossings; providing boulevard buffers whenever possible; widening and expanding existing trails on the east end for safer usage; as well as corridorwide ADA-related improvements on the existing facilities to ensure the facilities are accessible to everyone.

Bikeway Enhancements Three design alternatives were developed for bikeway facilities on the project: on-street bike lanes; one-way cycle tracks on each side of the street; and a two-way cycle track on one side of the street. Design factors included safe and efficient crossings of side streets, pedestrian/bicycle interactions, active connections to public transportation, increased connectivity between existing

An off-street, oneway cycle track on the south side of the street for eastbound bikers provides a protected biking facility for those who do not feel comfortable riding on the street. bicycle facilities, and of course, cost. As with any roadway improvement project, there was a major competition for space.

After reviewing the pros and cons of each option, a fourth option was developed: • An on-street bike lane with buffer strips on the north side of the street for westbound bikers. This allowed the city to keep existing mature boulevard trees and save a significant amount of money by keeping a large portion of the existing north curb line in place • An off-street one-way cycle track on the south side of the street for eastbound bikers. This provided a protected

biking facility for those who do not feel comfortable riding on the street. The cycle track was connected to the new sidewalk and colored concrete was used for the off-street cycle track in order to differentiate the two facilities. In addition to the cycle track, a wider curb was also added for eastbound commuting bikers who prefer to ride on the street versus on an off-street cycle track.

Careful consideration was made at intersections to ensure cyclists could safely cross traffic. Specialized ADA-compliant ramps were designed on the south side of the road to transition cyclists from the off-street cycle track, onto the roadway

to cross the intersection, and safely back onto the cycle track. Green bicycle lane crosswalk blocks were installed adjacent to pedestrian crosswalk blocks at critical crossing locations to clarify pedestrian crossings from the bicycle facility crossings.

These new pedestrian and bicycle facilities along Cedar Lake Road will serve as a safe and efficient transportation option for travelers opting for non-motorized transportation to get around the city. For more information about cycle tracks and how they can improve transportation in your community, contact Kyle Johnson at 612-756-4339.

Asphalt Trail Paving · Parking Lot Overlay Chip �ealcoa�ng · Athle�c Court �ur�aces

Photos ©Bolton & Menk

Contact us at (952) 496‐2651 or online at www.mnroadways.com Your Paving Specialists Since 1953 Winter 2020 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 27

MRPA CorporateConnections ALL ABOUT AQUATICS Corporate Connections is a new feature highlighting products, services, or updates from MRPA’s corporate members. If you are a current corporate member and would like to see your company highlighted in an upcoming issue of MINNESOTA magazine, please email Todd Pernsteiner at info@pernsteiner.com.

Life Floor is First to Achieve NSF/ANSI 50 Certification Water Trampoline and Bouncer Packages Many community waterparks are re-inventing themselves to find new ways to draw in customers during Minnesota’s short summer season. RAVE® created the Aqua Jump® Eclipse™ in response to consumer input; customers asked us for a lighter weight product that was easier to set up, take down, and store in the off season. As a result, they developed the first and only barless water trampoline…the Eclipse®! Most RAVE water trampolines and bouncers have a water park option that include an exciting aqua attachment from the Aqua Slide, Aqua Launch or Aqua Log. Best of all, ordering is a breeze! You can order all products – as well as parts and accessories – with a few clicks of a button online.

In 2019, after four years of research, testing, and careful deliberation, NSF/ ANSI 50 has created a new standard for splash pad surfaces. The new standard emphasizes slip resistance, impact attenuation, and durability to perform in the aquatic environment. Life Floor is proud to be the first splash pad surface in the world to be certified to this new standard. To learn more about the new standard, visit Life Floor’s website.

Life Floor, www.lifefloor.com

Nautilus2 Slide Offers Hours of Fun Bring sliding fun to your splash pad or pool with the Nautilus2 Slide from Aquatix by Landscape Structures. Users of all ages and abilities can climb the non-slip stairs to the top and race down the three-person wide slide bed.

Not only is it a thrilling ride, but nozzles spray onto the 8-foot slide making it a splashing good time. Even more, the backside of the Nautlius2 is the Cove with a hangout space behind a fun water fall.

RAVE SPORTS www.ravesports.com

28 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Aquatix by Landscape Structures www.aquatix.playlsi.com

MRPA CorporateConnections Making Pools as Good as New When replastering a pool, it’s important to use a variety of durable materials and pool plaster to ensure each plaster finish lasts as long as possible. From large lap pools to water parks, Horizon Pool Supply can handle it all. Horizon Pool Supply replasters more commercial swimming pools than any other pool contractor in our area. This experience makes our finishes stand out in the industry.

Contact their renovation department for more information and a free quote.

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AquaClimb Climbing Walls The safe, fun alternative to slides and diving boards. AquaClimb® walls energize your aquatic scene and provide a safe, fun alternative to slides and diving boards and make a great addition to your fitness and recreation programs. They also provide supplemental training for aquatic sports teams, and are a unique, fun way for kids to learn about climbing. Both indoor and outdoor locations can integrate this exhilarating activity in a safe and controlled manner with a variety of AquaClimb systems from CRS.

Commercial Recreation Specialists, www.crs4rec.com

Aquatic Design Sustainability & Technology USAquatics strives to incorporate the latest green technology and innovations available by tailoring designs to the client’s aquatic needs, while keeping the overall goal of greater sustainability. By “thinking outside the box”, or in their case “thinking outside the pool”, they have become an innovator in aquatic pool and water park technologies. For more than 26 years they have demonstrated and executed technologies that help keep aquatic facilities efficient, sustainable, reliable and show a return on investment.

USAquatics, www.usaquaticsinc.com

Winter 2020 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 29

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PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS Park supervisors • Development managers Park board members • Groundskeepers YOUTH & ADULT RECREATION Recreation directors and coordinators Athletics coordinators • Group leaders Aquatics managers • Event planners Therapeutic recreation coordinators Senior Center managers • Trip organizers

GOLF COURSES Course managers • League coordinators Facility rental staff • Event planners Golf instructors NATURE CENTERS Nature center managers • Exhibit curators Environmental educators • Naturalists

30 MINNESOTA MINNESOTARecreation Recreationand andParks Parks••www.mnrpa.org www.mnrpa.org www.mnrrpa.org

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City of Your Town Receives New Playground Grant Bathford Council contracted HAGS to design and create a new play area that gives local children plenty of opportunities to play and socialise.

The challenge was set for designers to come up with a well thought strategy to make best use of this existing narrow space where an old playground used to sit. The play area had to be low maintenance, provide play equipment for all abilities and have safety railings to distinguish it from the adjacent sports field.

We provided a range of equipment ensuring children would be kept entertained for hours. For the younger users (age 1-4) we provided the Zingo Nau, Zingo See Saw and a Zingo Bubble to integrate bright colours within the park. The Zingo product range promotes social interaction and development, as well as providing a challenging physical exercise.

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instinctively appeals to all children with a sense of adventure, providing challenges to get them moving so they never get bored. In addition, we’ve provided playground essentials such as the Olympic 2 seat swing with 2 cradle seats, a 2.4m Basket Swing and a Rota Roka to complement this play area. To encourage cognitive stimulation, we included the Crazy and Ball maze panels, Talk Tubes, 3 in a Row Panel and a ‘What Time Is It?’ panel.

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Ad deadline: March 6, 2020 | Mails: April 2020 Special sections: MRPA member awards; engineering/design/construction

Summer 2020 magazine issue Ad deadline: May 22, 2020 | Mails: July 2020 Special sections: 2020 MRPA Annual Conference guide; group tours and partnering with CVBs

13 Spring 2020 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks

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Winter 2021 magazine issue Ad deadline: December 20, 2020 | Mails: February 2021 Special sections: Aquatics/waterparks/safety; sport and fitness facilities; Park & Recreation education, continuing education, and unique careers * Additional editorial content will be announced prior to each issue deadline.

Contact Todd Pernsteiner for more information at info@pernsteiner.com or (952) 841-1111, or watch www.mnrpa.org.

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3.625" x 9"

$550

$525

$500

$475

$775

$675

(F) 1/2 page horizontal*

7.5" x 4.25"

$550

$525

$500

$475

$775

$675

(G) 1/3 page banner*

8.5" x 3" (+ .125" bleed)

$425

$400

$375

$325

$550

$650

(H) 1/4 page*

3.625" x 4.5"

$385

$325

$300

$275

$475

$525

(I) Magazine inside front cover**

8.5" x 11" (+ .125" bleed)

$1,100

$1,075

$1,000

$975

$1,500

$1,400

(J) Magazine inside back cover**

8.5" x 11" (+ .125" bleed)

$1,000

$975

$925

$900

$1,300

$1,100

(K) Magazine back cover**

8.5" x 8" (+ .125" bleed)

$1,275

$1,225

$1,175

$1,100

$1,575

$1,475

NEW!

(L) Buyer's Guide inside front cover** 8.5" x 11" (+ .125" bleed) (M) Buyer's Guide inside back cover** 8.5" x 11" (+ .125" bleed) (N) Buyer's Guide back cover**

8.5" x 11" (+ .125" bleed)

$975

$1,500

$900

$1,200

$1,150

$1,375

N/A (Photo & 50 words)

$150 w/Buyer's Guide ad; $275 w/out Buyer's Guide ad

$450

(P) Buyer's Guide yellow pages listings

N/A (Indicate category(ies)

First listing free; $25 each for each additional listing

$75 per category

(Q) Buyer's Guide logo listing addition

N/A (Submit company logo)

$50 for first category; $25 for additional categories

N/A

(O) Buyer's Guide featured products

NEW!

*Ad size available in both the magazine and Buyer's Guide

**Premium ad spaces available on a first-come, first served basis.

Download the complete 2020 rate card at: www.bit.ly/2020MRPA

Advertising questions? Contact: Todd Pernsteiner, Account Manager Phone: 952-841-1111 | Email: info@pernsteiner.com Spring Fall2019 2019••MINNESOTA MINNESOTARecreation Recreationand andParks Parks 31

MINNESOTA RECREATION AND PARK ASSOCIATION 200 CHARLES ST NE FRIDLEY MN 55432-5368

NEW! Hercules Collection: Vandal Resistant Parks

• 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