MARCH 2021 | VOLUME 11 | NUMBER 2
S A S K AT C H E W A N PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N A S S O C I AT I O N
IN RECREATION
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MARCH 2021 | VOLUME 11 | NUMBER 2
BOARD OF DIRECTORS President TJ Biemans
Director for Villages Taylor Morrison
Director at Large Heidi Carl
Director for Cities Jody Boulet
Director for the North Tonia Logan
Director at Large Ken Ottenbreit
Director for Towns Jaime Helgason
Director at Large Dean Dodge
Director at Large Jennifer Burgess
STAFF LEADERSHIP TEAM Chief Executive Officer Todd Shafer Program Manager John Firnesz Partnership Manager Randy Durovick Communications, Information and Research Manager Chantel Doerksen Finance and Administration Manager Mark Sather Field Services Manager Kerry Bailey
RECREATION CONSULTANTS Information and Research Services Nancy Young
Strategy and Policy Consultant Leanne Schinkel Assistant Consultant Chris Chepil
Communications Lori Ross Christian Bates-Hardy
Assistant Consultant Ryan Monks
Grants and Funding Kacie Loshka
FIELD CONSULTANTS
Parks and Open Spaces Andrew Exelby Physical Activity and Fitness Wendy McKellar Leadership, Evaluation and Human Resources Karen House Facilities and Training Tim Hanna Youth Engagement Kelsey Michaluk Inclusion and Access Kristen Bialobzyski
Jaclyn Davis Rob Boulding Dan Gallagher Clint McConnell Daniel Longman
President’s Message
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Celebrating Communities Across Saskatchewan
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Lights, Camera, Action - Environmental Action
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Looking Good!
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Volunteers 07 Craik Communities in Bloom
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Tree-Mendous Success Aschim Homestead Heritage Forest
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Eston Communities in Bloom 11 Staff RECognition 12 Our Future Leaders
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RECcellence 15 Industry Building Learning Series
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ADMINISTRATION Administrative Assistants Kristen Jones Kayla Lazeski (leave) Joanne Fikowski Tracy Malayney Chloe Truong (leave) Regina Office: Phone: (306) 780-9231 or 1-800-563-2555
OUR VISION We envision a Saskatchewan in which all people have equitable access to recreation experiences that contribute to their health and wellbeing; result in connected and engaged community members; and provide connection and attachment to the natural environment.
DIRECTION is provided to members of the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association. Direct all communications to: Lori Ross, DIRECTION Editor #100 - 1445 Park Street Regina, Saskatchewan S4N 4C5 Phone: (306)780-9370 Email: lross@spra.sk.ca. Articles within this magazine are the opinions of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the policies or opinions of SPRA. Articles in DIRECTION may be reprinted, provided that full credits are shown for the author and the magazine.
Funded by
Find out more about what we can do for you by visiting: www.spra.sk.ca.
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE TJ Biemans SPRA President The 2020 SPRA RECognition Award winners have volunteered countless hours and raised millions of dollars to build trails, facilities, programs and more so citizens have places to go and activities to engage in to nurture their physical and mental health. In one of the hardest years we’ve experienced in recent memory, these Award winners have found ways to contribute meaningfully to the quality of life in their communities.
As I read the March 2021 issue of DIRECTION, I can’t help but think about the term “placemaking”. Though the concept of placemaking has been around for a long time, the word hasn’t entered the public vocabulary until recently, possibly due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the pressures it has posed to community spaces. According to the Project for Public Spaces, placemaking “capitalizes on a local community’s assets, inspiration and potential, with the intention of creating public spaces that promote people’s health, happiness and wellbeing”. To me, placemaking is the physical expression of community development, which is at the heart of what we do in parks and recreation. Placemaking is about strengthening the connection between people and the places we share. The concept acknowledges that health and wellbeing are directly impacted by where we live and the opportunities that are available for us to come together. To see examples of great placemaking at work, you need only turn the pages of this magazine. In this issue, we’re celebrating the 2020 Communities in Bloom and SPRA RECognition Award winners. Between these pages, you’ll read stories about inspiring groups and individuals that care deeply about their community’s health, happiness and wellbeing, and the places and spaces that support them. In addition to beautifying high traffic areas, the 2020 Communities in Bloom Award winners have reclaimed former industrial spaces to build a new central gathering place for their town, preserved natural heritage areas and protected precious wildlife habitat, and built cross-sectoral partnerships to deliver community enhancement projects to the delight of the young and old.
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Congratulations to all the Award winners profiled in this issue of DIRECTION. We couldn’t be more proud to publicly acknowledge your contributions to our industry and our province. Placemaking, much like community building, is an ongoing process; it is never finished. Thankfully, we have a committed network of volunteers and professionals stepping up to train and mentor the next generation of community placemakers. As we begin to see the light at the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, I’m hopeful for the future of not just our industry, but also our communities. ■
CELEBRATING COMMUNITIES ACROSS SASKATCHEWAN Communities in Bloom – People, Plants and Pride… Growing Together
Andrew Exelby SPRA Consultant - Parks and Open Spaces 2020 marked Communities in Bloom’s (CiB’s) 23rd year in Saskatchewan! The Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association has proudly delivered this program since 1997 in partnership with the national Communities in Bloom Foundation. Communities participating across the province continue to embrace the program and it fundamentals resulting in amazing community development projects that everyone should celebrate! As we begin 2021 and the 24th year of Saskatchewan CiB, lets look back and recognize the participants, photo contest winners and special recognition awards winners of 2020. We see can’t wait to see what these communities have to offer in 2021.
2020 Saskatchewan Communities in Bloom Participants Kyle Manitou Beach Craik Rockglen Turtleford Waseca Eastend Candle Lake
Lashburn St. Walburg Coronach Eston Ile-a la-Crosse Maidstone Davidson Kerrobert Creighton
Rosthern Outlook Pilot Butte Assiniboia Moose Jaw
Saskatchewan communities representing our province in the national Communities in Bloom program Melfort Indian Head Maple Creek
Communities in Bloom Special Recognition Award Winners: • Heritage Recognition – Candle Lake Communities in Bloom for Aschim Homestead Heritage Forest. • Floral Displays – Eston Communities in Bloom for Community Floral Displays. • Volunteer Recognition – Nicole Lerat of Rosthern and Sandy Kimball of Assiniboia. • Community Spirit – Craik Communities in Bloom for development of Community Recreational Areas.
• Community Appearance - Pilot Butte Beautification Committee for rejuvenating the Recreation Centre Flowerbeds. • Environmental Action – Eastend for development of Town Square. • Trees and Urban Forestry – Moose Jaw for the Tree of Significance Program.
“Take a Shot!” Photo Contest Winners • 1st Place Val Mohan of Eston
• 2nd Place JoAnn Girardin of Assiniboia
• 3rd Place Gwen Eyre of Craik
Saskatchewan
Through their efforts, our participants continue to connect and engage their residents while making the province a better place for everyone to live! For more information about the Saskatchewan Communities in Bloom Program, contact Andrew Exelby - Consultant Parks and Open Spaces, at 306-780-9262 or by email at aexelby@spra.sk.ca. ■ 04
EASTEND TOWN SQUARE
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION... ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION! Rosa Vazquez-Ring Tourism & Economic Development, Town of Eastend
The Eastend Town Square and Green Space, winner of the Saskatchewan Communities in Bloom Environmental Action Award by SPRA!
Street Pianos” movement which is seeing pianos installed in public parks, squares, railway stations, streets, airports, etc., in places all over the world.
The Town Square and Green Space is an on-going project,
The public works employees, with the assistance of the Garden Club and Communities in Bloom Committee, create and plant the colourful and celebratory floral displays in the Town Square and throughout the community. Future plans include the installation of a sundial and a rock garden.
developed by the Town of Eastend in collaboration with the Tourism and Economic Development Board, the Garden Club and the Communities in Bloom Committee. The Town Square and Green Space is a great example of a reclaimed brownfield site. Developed on the site of a former bulk oil operation, local gas station and garage, the area needed to be reclaimed with very little soil disturbance.
The project has been a great success due to its multiphase approach and dedicated volunteers:
Phase 1 The Outdoor Market area and floral beds were designed and constructed.
Phase 2 The construction of public washrooms, benches and three pergolas was completed. Self-watering hanging baskets and ground planters were also purchased and added to the site.
Phase 3 Planting was completed and included: five Poplar trees, two Yellow Willows, a Multi-stem Hot Wing Maple, a Maple Tatarian Hot Wing and a crabapple tree, as well as a row of Dwarf Korean Lilacs. The local Garden Club designed the space and specifically chose Willows and Poplars to assist in the remediation of the soil. Perennials were chosen for the planters surrounding the Outdoor Garden Market area. Community partnerships have made the Town Square possible. From the initial partnerships between the Town of Eastend, the Tourism and Economic Development Board, the Garden Club and the Communities in Bloom Committee to more recent and new partnerships, it is the partnerships within the community that make the Town Square a great place. In collaboration with the Eastend Public Library, a piano has been set-up in the Town Square as part of the, “Play Me I’m Yours 05
The Town Square is located on Red Coat Drive (Eastend’s main street) and next to the school. It is a green space for individuals to enjoy and a gathering place for the community. The spaces hosts regular Garden Market days during the summer months, community events, fundraiser barbeques, musical events and celebrations of all kinds. It is a shining example of People, Plants and Pride in Eastend! ■
PILOT BUTTE BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE
LOOKING GOOD!
Denise Einarson Co-Chairperson of the Beautification Committee
Pilot Butte Beautification Committee, winner of the Saskatchewan Communities in Bloom Community Beautification Award by SPRA! Community appearance is one of Communities in Bloom’s six key criteria areas. The general appearance of a community is vital in attracting and retaining business, residents and tourists! Quite honestly a community that looks successful, will be successful! Over the past two years, our group has worked hard to rejuvenate the grounds and flowerbeds that are located outside of the Pilot Butte Recreation Centre. In 2019, we did a basic clean up of the area including weeding, trimming the maple tree and planting flowers - either in the ground level beds or various pots. We discussed and planned what we would do in the spring of 2020 if we could source some funding. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to secure funding, so we scaled back our “wish list” and got to work. We started with work on the ground level planters and beds by removing the landscape fabric - which was actually mak-
ing our weed problem worse - picking the remaining weeds, adding topsoil, with the help of Pilot Butte’s maintenance department, and then removing, replacing and staining the landscape ties around the edges of the beds and planters. To finish everything off, we added a thick layer of mulch, trimmed the trees again, and then worked with all of our volunteers to plant the flowers. We had one individual that took on the responsibility of designing our flower display and it looks terrific! All of our work in 2020 was accomplished in just a few weekends and ended with a final planting day. We explained what needed to be done and everyone on the committee rolled up their sleeves and set to work. It was great to be together - yet physically distant - with likeminded individuals, to beautify these spaces. The grounds of the Pilot Butte Recreation Centre are one of the most well travelled areas in our community and we’ve had lots of wonderful comments on how well the flowers looked - and that makes us proud to do our part. It’s pretty cool when a young person zooms by on their bike or skateboard and yells out how much they like the flowers! ■ 06
“Volunteers don’t get paid, not because they’re worthless, but because they’re priceless.” - Sherry Anderson
Volunteers are the backbone of Parks and Recreation across Saskatchewan. In many communities, volunteer Board and Committees are key in delivering and coordinating programs, services and projects - and in others, these great volunteers work closely with dedicated staff. It all adds up to making Saskatchewan communities great places to live and recreate! Saskatchewan Communities in Bloom has always been rooted in volunteerism.”
Volunteers are key in coordinating the program in communities across the province and working on the great projects that are seen in communities everyday. An inspiring number of nominations were received for the Volunteer Recognition Award and our Volunteer judges were tasked with the adjudication process. Congratulations to our two worthy recipients of 2020 Communities in Bloom Volunteer Recognition Award!
NICOLE LERAT - ROSTHERN, SK
SANDY KIMBALL - ASSINIBOIA, SK
Nicole Lerat is the Town of Rosthern’s Chief Administrative Officer. Despite being busy with her duties as CAO and her personal life, she is also a dedicated volunteer with landscape projects in the community. She has been the volunteer lead for several landscaping projects in the Town of Rosthern - using her passion and extensive knowledge of plants and landscaping to develop ideas and landscape designs. She regularly volunteers her time to plant and maintain project areas. Nicole has demonstrated her dedication to beautifying the community for years and for that we are proud to acknowledge her!
Sandy has been a long time volunteer in Assiniboia Communities in Bloom. She quietly sees what plants need to be cared for and completes the work to help make our town look better. Weeding, watering, cleaning, nurturing - whatever she sees needs to get done - she does, using her time. Often as you go around the town, Sandy can be seen working on CiB projects. It is fitting to recognize her this year as she is moving to Saskatoon after living in our community since birth. We are very sad to see Sandy and her family leave but our loss is Saskatoon’s gain. We wish them every happiness.
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CRAIK COMMUNITIES IN BLOOM
“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members” – Coretta Scott King
Glenn Hymers Craik Communities in Bloom
Craik Communities in Bloom - for Development of Community Recreational Areas - winner of the Saskatchewan Communities in Bloom CiB Spirit Award by SPRA!
Craik Communities in Bloom began the work with these goals: ■ Support Public Health Orders, social distancing, and the
health of the community ■ Reduce the impact of the loss of routine and normal Craik Communities in Bloom began in 2001 and was rein activities vigorated in 2013. Since this time, the Craik Communities in ■ Encourage participation in outdoor activities and the Bloom Committee and been working in partnership and with benefits they provide – appreciation of nature, physical support of the local government, to improve the look and func- exercise, education, entertainment and overall mental tion of our community. It has been a great initiative that has health encouraged the community to work together and make Craik ■ Provide colourful, cheerful areas for folks to visit at safe the ‘Friendliest Place By A Dam Site!’ distances ■ Inspire community spirit In 2020, The Craik CiB committee identified a need for recreational areas within the Town of Craik. We mobilized the “Thank you to all those who spent so much leadership, volunteer base, support of local business and time brightening up our childhood playground. government to develop four projects – Cornerstone Park, the It was so wonderful to watch our kids enjoy the Pollinator Garden, Waterway Park and the Story Trail. These newly-renovated Waterway Park as much as we projects involved great partnerships. For example, the Story did when we were their age.” – Jinelle Goller Trail was completed in collaboration with the Craik branch of the Palliser Regional Library. Everyone recognized that access to quality recreational spaces was very important and that the needs for this space was only growing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our CiB program has pulled together diverse groups of people in our community. It has been nice to see folks bringing forward innovative ideas and blending their goals to the improvement of our community’s appearance. People are keen to present ideas that might build on existing sites and plan for future projects in various corners of town.” – Gwen Eyre
“People comment on how nice and inviting Cornerstone Park is. A story I have is connecting younger kids to elderly as they sit there. I have seen a few conversations take place that would not have in the past.” - Charla Edwards
“It’s a united effort for community pride. Areas originally abandoned now look great.” – Gladys Gartner
“The Story Trail has been a great asset to the Craik Library particularly in this time of Covid but previous to that as well. Children really look forward to every new story. It offers an enjoyable opportunity for learning and movement as they travel from one phase of the story to the next.” – Jo McAlpine By all accounts, the efforts of Craik Communities in Bloom have had a huge impact on the quality of life for our citizens.■ 08
MOOSE JAW’S
TREE-MENDOUS SUCCESS Sarah Wist Regent City Horticulturalist, City of Moose Jaw
Moose Jaw - Tree of Significance Program winner, of the Saskatchewan Communities in Bloom Trees and Urban Forestry Award by SPRA! The Tree of Significance Program has been operated annually by the City of Moose Jaw Parks and Recreation Department since 2011. The program recognizes special trees in our community and celebrates National Tree Day. A total of 16 trees have been recognized by the program so far, all for their own unique reasons. Trees can be nominated for their outstanding beauty, exceptional size, rarity, or special place within the community’s history. All of the trees nominated contribute to quality of life, sense of place, and our natural heritage. Each year the winning tree or trees are announced on National Tree Day (the third Wednesday of September every year), the Wednesday of National Forest Week. The tree’s picture and story is shared in the community so that everyone can appreciate the role trees play in our heritage.
Past Trees of Significance 2020
The 2020 Tree of Significance is a large weeping birch in the front yard of 1515 Spadina St. This tree is one of the few fully mature weeping birches left in Moose Jaw - after the bronze birch borer caused the death of most of the birch tree population.
2019
The 2019 Tree of Significance is a large silver maple at the corner of 4th Ave SW and Lillooet St W. This tree is the namesake tree of the Maple Leaf Bakery.
2018
The 2018 Tree of Significance is a tatarian maple on the Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus. This tree is not only an impressively large specimen of a relatively rare species in Moose Jaw, but was also the tree used to display red dresses as part of the REDress Exhibit. This Exhibit was part of the Atamiskākēwak National Gathering held in April, 2018. A full list of past winners is available at https://moosejaw.ca/ awards/tree-of-significance/ for residents to review and reflect on. ■
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CANDLE LAKE
ASCHIM HOMESTEAD HERITAGE FOREST Gail Haight Candle Lake Communities in Bloom
Candle Lake - Aschim Homestead Heritage Forest, winner of the Saskatchewan Communities in Bloom Heritage Recognition Award by SPRA!
In 1932, Ansgar and Christina Aschim bought 130 hectares of land and built a two story Norwegian style cabin from fire killed spruce harvested on the east side of Torch Lake. A barn, pig house, garage, smokehouse and warm-up shack were also built on the property. Other reminders of farming days long past, are the horse drawn seeder, hay wagon and sets of wagon wheels - which are still on the property. In 1942, the Aschims left the property, returning in the summer to log and make forest improvements. In 1965, the Provincial Government acquired the property, and in 1977 responsibility was transferred to the Saskatchewan Forestry Association. The property was then named the Homestead Heritage Forest.
Aschim Homestead Heritage Forest has been a priority of Candle Lake Communities in Bloom for many years. In 2007, the group of CiB volunteers became a newly formed committee of Candle Lake Resort Village (CLRV) Council and registered provincially with Communities in Bloom. Recognizing heritage in the area became an important consideration for Candle Lake Communities in Bloom and the committee became responsible for the Homestead Heritage Forest and its 32 acres. They immediately recognized its potential as a tourist and hiker destination for the area. The CiB volunteers became responsible for improvements and maintenance of the area including the home, yard and trails. A combination of substantial fundraising by CiB volunteers and budget received from the municipality allows the homestead forest to be an amazing attraction for the area!
Presently, there are five different trails featuring interpretive and directional signage, boardwalks, stands of beautiful white spruce trees, aspen trees, marshes with black spruce , wildflowers, berry bushes and beautiful grasses. Moose, elk, deer, red squirrels and songbirds are special attractions of the area. Historical pictures and documents are located in the yard and the house. The trails and yard are well maintained and boardwalks receive continual repair. This work is supervised and done by volunteers. There is one maintenance worker who does the trail trimming and yard care. Continual trail development is underway, as reclaiming a former trail to Torch Lake is in the works for the spring of 2021. As mentioned, the responsibility for this wonderful Heritage Homestead is assumed by The Candle Lake Communities in Bloom Committee. The Committee is dedicated to preserving history and making the property an amazing space for tourists and area residents alike. ■
An Intriguing History and Unique Tourist Experience A wagon trail dating back to 1815 runs through the property and was used during the Riel Rebellion to haul fish from Torch Lake. In 1919, this same trail was used for logging. You can still see the ruts worn over time by the wagon wheels. 10
ESTON COMMUNITIES IN BLOOM “Flowers are the music of the ground from earth‘s lips spoken without sound.” - Edwin Curran
Arlene Janzen Communities in Boom Volunteer Judge
Eston Communities in Bloom, winner of the Saskatchewan Communities in Bloom Floral Displays Award by SPRA! Eston is the longest participating community in the Saskatchewan Communties in Bloom program. Similar to other participants, floral displays are a focus of the group. Although all aspects of the program are important, flowers provide that WOW factor that everybody sees. Flowers can quickly brighten up your main street, provide a cheerful entrance to businesses and create that beautiful space that attracts residents and tourists alike. Most of us will likely agree, that we would rather be in a world with flowers, than a world without. Eston Communities in Bloom has a long history of maintaining floral displays throughout the community - including hanging baskets on Main Street, planters near their iconic Gopher and more.
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“Each year the Eston CiB group plants several flower displays - 6 large concrete planters, 14 large reservoir planters, 20 hanging planters, and additional oak barrel planters. The Parks and Recreation crew help out with watering the hanging reservoir planters twice a week. All remaining water reservoir planters are filled regularly by the CiB volunteers, along with the task of additional mid-week and weekend watering of all planters. The floral displays can be found along our town’s Main Street, along the highway coming into town and at the entrance to our sports grounds and a few other high traffic areas. These planters add great visual appeal and enjoyment for residents and visitors.” - Val Mohan, with Eston Communities in Bloom Eston’s floral displays are wonderful contributions of colour in the community. They are cheerful and make the community a happy place to be - which is all the more important as people are spending more time at home and in their community! Eston is community with many volunteers and residents that recognize the importance of making their community a great place to live! ■
STAFF REC-OGNITION
Every year, SPRA applauds the successes and contributions of our staff members who are celebrating major work anniversaries. Read on to see why we love having these three awesome individuals as part of our team!
DANIEL LONGMAN - FIVE YEAR CELEBRATION
NANCY YOUNG - FIVE YEAR CELEBRATION
Daniel was raised on the George Gordon First Nation, where he enjoyed attending local cultural activities and taking part in sports such as judo and softball. Daniel‘s favourite recreational activities are Pow Wows, as he enjoys the connection to his culture, visiting and laughing with friends and family, and enjoying different songs, drums and dancing styles. He also enjoys camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, travelling, reading good books and spending time with his partner.
Nancy was raised on her family farm just outside of Manitou, Manitoba, with her sister, brother, cattle and multiple pets! Her favourite leisure activity is reading, and according her to parents, she learned to read as fast as possible – graduating to novels by grade 2. She also enjoys swimming, boating, walking, hiking, motorsports and flying. Nancy has soloed a small airplane and hopes to finish her pilot license after she is done her house renovations.
Daniel recognizes his dad as the person who has the biggest influence on his life. He taught Daniel the importance of education, life-long learning, and supporting community through volunteerism.
Nancy credits her maternal grandmother as having the biggest influence on her life. She taught Nancy how to make a sponge cake and homemade sunscreen – but the enduring lesson was to remain objective and hold judgement until she’s learned as many facts as possible.
Daniels’ experiences, knowledge and talents are second to none and make him an incredibly important part of the Field Services Team!
Nancy is our Information and Research Consultant – after learning a little more about Nancy, you will see that she is perfect for this role!
Wendy is a passionate recreation professional, whose career has spanned over 35 years. For the past 10 years, we have been lucky to have Wendy as our Physical Activity and Fitness Consultant. Wendy’s passion for physical activity is apparent! When asked what one of her most memorable moments in working at SPRA has been, she was quick say that it has been experiencing the energy and passion displayed by Fitness Leaders during SaskFit Conferences - and knowing that they are committed to be the best they can be to help others be active.
WENDY MCKELLAR - TEN YEAR CELEBRATION
Outside of work, Wendy enjoys spending time with her husband Lyle and her three adult daughters. Camping, spending time on the golf course and gardening are essential pastimes. She is a Board member on the local Community Association and teaches Fitness classes in the community. 12
OUR FUTURE LEADERS Karen House SPRA Consultant - Leadership, Evaluation and Human Resources
SPRA is thrilled to announce and celebrate the 2020 SPRA Scholarship Recipients! The SPRA Scholarship Program supports individuals pursuing careers in recreation within Saskatchewan. Recipients are selected on the basis of academic achievement and demonstrated involvement as a volunteer in recreation, parks or leisure services. Saskatchewan Polytechnic – Recreation and Community Development Program Recipient: Jashanpreet Kaur I
I completed my diploma in Recreation and Community Development at Saskatchewan Polytechnic in the spring of 2020. I believe choosing this program was one of the best decisions I have taken until now, as it taught me many skills and helped me explore different chapters of life. I have volunteered in a number of events in Saskatoon including The Great Kitchen Party, Winter City Shakeup, Winter Shines, Santa Clause Parade, and Broadway Street Fair. I have also volunteered at Luthercare Communities, King George School, and Erindale Arbor Creek Community Association. My roles in all these volunteer opportunities were different. In some events I helped with setting up and taking down the event, tour ambassador, and registrations, whereas in others I was assigned with the duties of attending to the VIP guests, teaching a cooking class, helping in the maintenance of the rink and also being a friendly visitor in the care home. Every person lives for themselves, but I also believe that one belongs with the people and the community they live in. The community is their second home and family, and everyone should thrive to make this second home the best place for others to visit and live in. My parents are my true motivation. Their selfless contribution towards their community inspired me to pursue a career in community development and recreation. My personal and professional goal is to never stop learning, as I believe even if you reach greater heights, life teaches you a new lesson every day. I am currently looking forward to working in the industry and applying the skills and knowledge that I have attained through the diploma of Recreation and Community Development. 13
University of Saskatchewan – College of Kinesiology Recipient: Jasmine Petit I am a fourth-year kinesiology student at the University of Saskatchewan. Throughout my time in university, I have had the opportunity to volunteer in a number of settings. Some of these opportunities include being a member of Martensville’s Buster Days committee, acting as a companion in the Physical Activity for Active Living (PAAL) program, acting as a companion in the SaskAbilities Summer Fun program, and assistant coaching high school volleyball. I have also taken responsibility in various employment pursuits. Some of these pursuits include running a School’s Out summer program, a drop-in gym program, as well as Mini Moves, a children’s physical activity program. I have also enjoyed my time working as a community resource developer for the Martensville Information and Visitor Centre, and my time spent as a respite worker for a 22-year-old individual with cerebral palsy. More recently, I have been spending my time working as a medical office assistant at Lakeside Medical Clinic in Saskatoon. Aside from volunteering and working, I greatly value my education. I have been a part of the Kinesiology Student Society (KiSS) throughout the duration of my time in university, and most recently, was elected as the 2020-2021 KiSS president. As a member of the student council, I have been involved in a number of activities including planning the Winter Formal, organizing college clothing orders, participating in Kin in the Community, and planning fundraisers such as the Terry Fox walk. As I approach graduation, I look forward to getting one step closer to my goal of becoming a doctor. I plan to spend my summer preparing for the Medical College Admission Test and to ultimately apply into the College of Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan.
University of Regina - Sport and Recreation Management Program Recipient: Alicia Dorwart I am in my final year at the University of Regina completing a Bachelor of Sport and Recreation Studies majoring in Sport and Recreation Management and a Diploma of Business Administration. I am currently interning with the Regina Pats as the Marketing and Communications Intern, where I have been able to expand my experience working in the WHL Eastern Division Hub. After graduation, I hope to pursue a career with a sports team or organization focusing on marketing, communications, game day, and/or events management. I grew up volunteering with my family with various organizations in my community. Volunteering in sport began in 2006 when Regina hosted the Tim Horton’s Brier, where I served on the communications and ceremonies committees. In 2009, I began volunteering with the University of Regina Rams on the marketing team and transitioned to hosting RamsTV from 2012 to 2015. I also currently serve on the Rams Board of Directors – and am only the second female to do so. Other experiences have been as Game Day Coordinator and General Manager for the Regina Riot women’s football club, and with the Saskatchewan Roughriders to help transition season ticket holder seats to the new stadium. Because of my volunteerism in the sport and recreation community, I decided to go back to school to pursue a degree in what I am most passionate about, sport and recreation. Aside from sport, I have also volunteered for almost two decades with local theatre companies, Regina Little Theatre and Regina Summer Stage in various roles such as performer, make up artist, backstage crew, assistant stage manager, and set designer. I am also finishing a 5-year term on the Regina Summer Stage Board of Directors as the Social Media Coordinator, and have co-managed the Scottish Pavilion for Mosaic, Festival of Cultures since 2016. ■
Service and installation of Artificial Ice Plants for Arena and Curling Rinks
2917B Miners Ave #5 1731 Ross Ave E Saskatoon, SK S7K 4Z6 Regina, SK S4N 7K2 (306)664-4400 (306) 585-7044 1-866-664-4400 www.stevensonindustrial.com
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RECCELLENCE! We imagine a province where everyone has the opportunity to enjoy recreation and feel more connected to nature, our communities, and ourselves - our 2020 RECognition Award Winners are helping to do just that. Here are the individuals and community groups who are energizing Saskatchewan and changing lives through parks and recreation. Rosalie Flynn (Swift Current) - Volunteer of the Year
Prince Albert Rotary Trail - Parks and Open Space Award
Rosalie has been a dedicated volunteer in the community of Swift Current, and in the province, for over 30 years. She has contributed her time and passion to ensure that all members of the community have the opportunity to benefit from recreational experiences and lead healthy lifestyles. Some significant volunteer roles that Rosalie has been involved in are the 2016 World Women's Curling Championship as a co-chair of the Lounge Committee and the 2019 Western Canada Summer Games as a co-chair of the Uniform Distribution and Accreditation Centre.
The 22.6 kilometre paved loop of the city began in 2004 with a segment along the North Saskatchewan River. Various lengths of Trail emerged throughout the years with the final kilometre in 2019. This was a great achievement for the Multi-Use Recreational Trail Committee that initiated the concept in 2001 and the Rotary Club who are the main sponsor and steward of the Trail. The volunteer committee spearheaded the fundraising campaign that raised in excess of $3.2M with support from many businesses, volunteer groups and all levels of government. City groups were passionate about raising funds for the Rotary Trail and now enjoy its benefits.
The past three years, Rosalie has played an integral roled in the local Forever...in motion program - as both a leader and a facilitator. As a facilitator she has trained many new leaders and allowed more programs to be delivered in the community. Rosalie is a strong supporter of recreation and the importance of living a healthy lifestyle at every age!
Thousands of residents access the trail annually to walk, jog, ride their bike, skateboard or push a loved one in a wheelchair. One of the defining elements of the Rotary Trail is its’ 10 feet path width. A free and accessible recreation amenity, the Rotary Trail adds value to properties in close proximity. Created by a strong volunteer initiative and maintained by the City, the Rotary
Wynyard Co-operative Place - Cecil Nobes Facility Award of Excellence
The $10 million Co-operative Place multi-use recreation facility was built to house the arena, golf course, ball diamond canteen and public washrooms which were formerly individual buildings - all that required extensive work. The facility 15
reclaims heat from the ice plant to help with the snow-dump pit. The building heating and cooling system runs on a schedule to lessen energy use. High-efficiency LED lighting also runs on a preset schedule to reduce energy costs. The new facility was constructed to meet accessibility code requirements, including accessible seating areas, parking areas and an accessible elevator allowing everyone to enjoy all areas of the facility. Additional dressing rooms, a regulation-size ice surface and seating for over 1000 fans allows our arena user groups to utilize the facility for events and tournaments. A fully stocked kitchen and spacious lounge allows the summer user groups to enjoy golf tournaments and other special events. Wynyard's new multi-use recreation facility was much needed and will function as a hub for the community for decades to come.
Swift Current - Community Achievement Award
Kristen Cutting - Fitness Leadership Award
2019 showcased the Volunteer spirit in Swift Current, with four major special events being held: • The Scotiabank Hockey Day in Canada held which had more than 100 volunteers • The Western Canada Summer Games, 1770 volunteers contributed over 50,000 volunteer hours to make the Games a huge success • The Canadian Cowboy Association Finals Rodeo with over 400 volunteers • And the World Under 17 Hockey Challenge with over 150 volunteers
Kristen certified as a SPRA Fitness Instructor in 2008. She is known in Saskatoon as the top Zumba and Step instructor and her classes are always full. Kristen teaches 2-3 classes/week at the University of Saskatchewan and has also taught at the Saskatchewan Health Authority within the Healthy Workplace programs for employees.
The hours that volunteers offer to make sure that everyone in the community can be engaged in their leisure time is invaluable. Major events and on-going programs alike, Swift Current is a community of volunteers, demonstrating that working together makes a community strong and viable.
Kristen has presented at the SPRA SaskFit Conference on several occasions, as one of the local presenters. She has a high energy, is fun and has an approachable personality. She is always willing to help people in every way to achieve their goals and be successful in any new patterns she is teaching. She is able to break down the moves for beginners and make moves more complex for seasoned participants in order for everyone to achieve success. Kristen’s passion and dedication to the fitness community shows in all of her classes.
Chris Bruce (Melville) - Facility Operations Award pool, and two hockey rinks, just to name a few. Chris was up for the challenge, and through excellent leadership and determination, Chris found numerous efficacies throughout his portfolio.
Chris Bruce started working for the City of Melville in 2013 in the Public Works Department. He was quickly promoted to management in under a year. His profound abilities were able to identify efficiencies within our sewage pump stations, our labour force and our operational and capital budgets. In 2017, Chris’s forward-thinking was noticed by the entire organization which lead to Chris to be selected to be the Director of Community Services. He overlooks a team that includes tourism, facility management, IT, user groups, corporate communications, programming, parks, a convention center, swimming
Chris has achieved much over the past three years as the Director of Community Services and managing the Horizon Credit Union Center. This facility hosts a 1,524 person seating capacity arena where fans are able to cheer on the Melville Millionaires SJHL hockey team. The 10-year-old facility hosts, all ice sports and recently the Men’s and Women’s provincial curling championships and includes meeting rooms, a convention centre and a walking track. Having never operated a facility with as many moving parts before, Chris took it upon himself to quickly learn everything there was to know about his new role. In doing so, Chris rapidly understood where he could make improvements in facilities Operation and Maintenance. When not in his office, Chris can be found on the floor under a Zamboni making repairs, in a skid steer pushing snow when he is short-staffed, and crawling into a duct to fix a fan. The community of Melville is unquestionably better with Chris Bruce as one of its leaders 16
Mike Schwean (Moosomin) - President‘s Award of Distinction
Mike graduated from the University of Regina in 1988 with a BPAS in Recreation Administration. He would go on to be the first Saskatchewan Recreation Professional to complete his Western Regional Master Technician Certification in 2006. After graduating, he spent the next year in Eatonia as Parks and Recreation Director. In 1990, Mike moved to Moosomin where he has been for 31 years.
Over the years, Mike has been instrumental with several new facilities being built and operated in the community including: • Swimming Pool – Spray Park added in 2000 • Convention Centre: Opened in 2011 • Communiplex • Blue Moose Lounge opened in 2015 • Nutrien Sportsplex Opened in 2017 • Bradley Park • Guinness Field, Kin Field, Elks Field, Generals Football Field, Home Hardware Field, Minor Soccer Field, Rodeo Facility, Outdoor Arena, 2 – Camping locations, play grounds - All opened to the public in Mike’s time • Tim Hortons Outdoor Eventplex opened in 2016 Mike Schwean has been a leader, advocate and champion in the parks and recreation field for years. Mike‘s creativity and passion to enhance recreation facilities in the community, has increased the quality of life of both residents and visitors alike.
In addition to celebrating our recipients here, we have also created videos to highlight each of these RECcellent winners. See our awards recipients on the big screen! The links to the videos are available on the SPRA Facebook page and on the website at www.spra.sk.ca/awards. Hopefully our winners have inspired you to nominate your own local recreation and parks heroes for a SPRA RECognition award. Watch for the Nomination Brochure coming April! ■
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INDUSTRY BUILDING LEARNING SERIES Tim Hanna SPRA Consultant - Facilities and Training Our annual Spring Symposium is on hiatus this year due to the ongoing pandemic. Instead, SPRA is pleased to announce the Industry Builder Learning Series. The Industry Builder Learning Series is an online professional development opportunity designed for Parks and Recreation practitioners and volunteers. Professional development is a key need recognized by our members and industry. The Industry Builder Learning Series is designed to help fill this need. The Industry Builder Learning Series features 10 online learning opportunities. In order to help make the shift from in-person to online learning, key features of the Industry Builder Learning Series will include: ■ live virtual sessions with two-way dialogue ■ the ability to register for as many sessions as you like ■ customize your training based on your interests and resources ■ easy access to watch and re-watch the sessions until June 30, 2021. The online learning sessions will focus on important topics related to parks/open spaces and facilities/arenas. The Industry Builder Learning Series will be offered over a 4 week period with the first session on April 27 and the final session on May 20. All sessions will start at 9:00 a.m. and last 1.5 hours.
10 Online Sessions
■ Playgrounds, Spray Pads and More – Adding Value to Parks and Open Spaces (April 27) ■ SLGA – Alcohol and Gaming Requirements (April 29) ■ Drivers Of Change In Recreation Delivery (May 4) ■ Your Pathway to Net Zero (May 5) ■ Roof Maintenance 101 (May 6) ■ Access and Inclusion in Recreation Spaces (May 11) ■ An Introduction to Tree Identification (May 12) ■ An Introduction to Landscape Design (May 13) ■ Pruning Techniques for Healthy Trees (May 18) ■ Building Trails in Your Community (May 20)
Our profession has a positive impact on our communities and residents. It is critical that we launch our industry into a new decade of professional development and innovation. Make sure your training is professional grade and attend this year‘s Industry Builder Learning Series Sessions will be delivered on either the GoToMeeting or Zoom platforms. Have your computer or other device ready to access these platforms so you can quickly and easily log into your session. Each session will have a Question and Answer period to encourage interaction and engagement Registration is now open on our website at www.spra.sk.ca/ opportunities/industry-builder-learning-series. Individual or group registrations and payments can be conveniently processed for an improved member and non-member experience. When registering for someone else, please include their name and email address so session information and reminders can be seamlessly provided to them. Some sessions have a minimum number of participants required so register early to avoid disappointment. If you find it difficult to plan too far in the advance, all sessions will accept registrations until noon the day before. Please have your credit card, Paypal or debit information ready before registering. For more information, contact Tim Hanna, Consultant – Facilities and Training at thanna@spra.sk.ca. ■
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