WELCOME TO
Wrangell welcomes the Alaska Recreation & Parks Association September 2024 conference! We value ARPA’s contributions to communities like Wrangell; we embrace the multiple benefits parks and recreation play in our everyday lives and consider our P&R department an essential public service. Programs supported by ARPA offer many benefits to the environment and community by promoting healthy activities, exhibiting good stewardship of our natural resources, and enhancing the quality of life for all citizens.
Our P&R department is a source of community pride; a variety of opportunities are offered to improve the overall quality of life in terms of economic, environmental, and general physical and mental wellness of Wrangell’s youth and families. Wrangell has a robust, active, effective, and constantly evolving and adapting P&R department providing educational and creative programs for public use and enjoyment. Our P&R crew manage several facilities, parks, playgrounds, and trails including the pool and recreational center, cemeteries, community garden, Petroglyph Beach, Mount Dewey trail, and waterfront green spaces. Our P&R department is constantly repairing and maintaining facilities, embracing new technologies, re-imagining spaces and their functions, preserving and enhancing our outdoor spaces, finding new ways of engaging with our youth, and adapting programs and facilities to serve our aging population. Our community greatly benefits from the variety of P&R programs and facilities.
Wrangell joins you in celebrating and promoting the efforts parks and recreation plays in the health and well-being for an individual, a community, the environment, and local economy. We are so very pleased you chose Wrangell as your Alaska Recreation & Parks Association conference locale and invite you to come back to our beautiful community to experience the recreational opportunities we offer.
Patricia Gilbert Mayor City & Borough of
Wrangell
TO WRANGELL
Alaska Recreation and Parks Association,
I am delighted to welcome you to this year’s Alaska Recreation and Parks Association Conference in Wrangell! It is a privilege for us to host this significant event, and I am eagerly looking forward to engaging with each of you throughout the conference. The gathering of Parks and Recreation professionals from across the State offers a unique opportunity for collaboration, networking, and shared learning that will undoubtedly benefit all our communities.
Hosting this conference is a fantastic chance for Wrangell to showcase our beautiful community and highlight the dedication and progress of our Parks and Recreation department. We have worked diligently to enhance our local programs, and I am excited for you to experience firsthand the initiatives we have implemented. A thriving Parks and Recreation program is essential for the well-being of any community, playing a critical role in promoting both physical and mental health among our residents.
As we navigate through a challenging operating environment and the dynamic and evolving landscape of Parks and Recreation, our team is eager to exchange ideas and best practices with all of you. Your expertise and insights are invaluable, and together we can continue to elevate the services we provide to our communities.
Thank you for taking the time to join us in Wrangell. Your presence here is greatly appreciated, and we hope you have a productive and enjoyable conference.
Warm regards,
Mason F. Villarma Borough Manager City and Borough of Wrangell
Elevating Play with Imagination and Adventure
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To learn more, visit playlsi.com/volo
SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH
9:00AM - 1:30PM ALASKA BOATING SAFETY: KIDS DON’T FLOAT TRAINER CERTIFICATION
9:00AM - 10:00AM: CLASSROOM SESSION
10:30AM - 11:30AM: IN WATER SESSION - OR12:30PM - 1:30PM: IN WATER SESSION
4:00PM - 5:00PM VENDOR SETUP
5:30PM - 7:30PM REGISTRATION, MUSEUM OPEN HOUSE THE NOLAN CENTER
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH
8:00AM - 8:30AM REGISTRATION & COFFEE
8:30AM - 9:00AM WELCOME CEREMONY
9:00AM - 9:15AM MINI SESSION
9:30AM - 10:30AM EDUCATION SESSION #1
10:45AM - 11:45AM EDUCATION SESSION #2
12:00PM - 1:15PM KEYNOTE LUNCH | MARGARET KELSO
1:30PM - 2:30PM ROUND TABLES
2:45PM - 3:45PM
EDUCATION SESSION #3
4:00PM - 5:00PM EDUCATION SESSION #4
6:00PM - 8:00PM COMMUNITY PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH
7:00AM - 8:00AM MORNING HIKE
8:45AM - 9:15AM COFFEE & MORNING GREETING
9:30AM - 10:30AM EDUCATION SESSION #5
10:45AM - 11:45AM EDUCATION SESSION #6
12:00PM - 1:15PM PANEL LUNCH
1:30PM - 2:30PM EDUCATION SESSION #7
2:45PM - 4:45PM FIELD TRIP
6:00PM - 7:00 PM SILENT AUCTION & SOCIAL HOUR STIKINE INN RESTAURANT AND HOTEL
7:00PM - 9:00PM AWARDS BANQUET & ANNUAL MEETING STIKINE INN RESTAURANT AND HOTEL
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH
9:00AM - 5:00PM LIFEGUARDING INSTRUCTOR RECERTIFICATION COURSE
10:00AM - 2:00PM LIFE GUARD INSTRUCTOR COURSE
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21ST
9:00AM - 5:00PM LIFEGUARDING INSTRUCTOR COURSE
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22ND
8:00AM - 6:00PM LIFEGUARDING INSTRUCTOR COURSE
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS
CONFERENCE PROGRAM
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH
ALASKA BOATING SAFETY: KIDS DON’T’ FLOAT CERTIFICATION
CLASSROOM SESSION
9:00AM - 10:00AM | Nolan Center
IN WATER SESSIONS
10:30AM - 11:30AM -OR12:30PM - 1:30 PM Wrangell Parks and Recreation
SPONSOR & VENDOR SETUP
4:00PM - 5:00PM
REGISTRATION & MUSEUM OPEN HOUSE
5:30PM - 7:30PM | Nolan Center
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH
REGISTRATION & COFFEE
8:00AM - 8:30AM | Nolan Center
WELCOME CEREMONY
8:30AM - 9:00AM | Nolan Center
MINI SESSION | ALASKA BOATING SAFETY PROGRAM
9:00AM - 9:15AM
EDUCATION SESSION #1
9:30AM - 10:30AM
ROOM 1
BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH STORY TELLING
Presenter: Laura Davies, Wrangell Public Schools
ROOM 2
PROPEL YOURSELF TO THE NEXT LEVEL - MOVING FROM PEER TO LEADER
Presenter: Mason Villarma, City and Borough of Wrangell
EDUCATION SESSION #2
10:45AM - 11:45AM
ROOM 1
KNOW YOUR NUMBERS - MAKING BETTER OPERATIONAL DECISIONS
Presenter: Scott Bell, City of Wasilla
ROOM 2
NAVIGATING AMERICAN RED CROSS WITH EASE
Presenter: Noelani Kamahele, Lavender’s Lifesaving Certifications
KEYNOTE LUNCHEON 12:00PM - 1:15PM
GENERAL SESSION PRESENTATION
RETAINING HUMANITY AND HEART DURING A CRITICAL INCIDENT
Presenter: Margaret Kelso, Cornerstone Safety Group
ROUND TABLES
1:30PM - 2:30PM
Join us for engaging round table discussions focused on funding parks on a shoestring budget, risk management and aquatics, and facility maintenance and project planning. Network with peers, share experiences and find innovative solutions to common challenges.
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS CONFERENCE PROGRAM
EDUCATION SESSION #3
2:45PM - 3:45PM
ROOM 1
LEVERAGING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN EVERYDAY TASKS
Presenter: Lauren Eck, City of Mountain View
ROOM 2
MEANINGFUL PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
Presenter: Kate Thomas, City and Borough of Wrangell
EDUCATION SESSION #4
2:45PM - 3:45PM
ROOM 1
INCLUSION- MEETING KIDS WHERE THEY’RE AT
Presenter: Matt Nore, Wrangell Public Schools
ROOM 2
RISK MANAGEMENT 101 - CONCEPTS OF SAFETY 1 & 2
Presenter: Margaret Kelso, Cornerstone Safety Group
PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT
6:00PM - 8:00PM | Wrangell Parks and Recreation
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH
HIKE + TRAIL PROGRESS
7:00AM - 8:00AM | USFS STATION
MORNING GREETING & COFFEE
8:30AM - 9:00AM | Nolan Center
EDUCATION SESSION #5
9:30AM - 10:30AM
ROOM 1
COMMUNITY BEAUTIFICATION PREVENTING UNDESIRABLE SPECIES
Presenter: Joni Johnson, USFS State, Private & Tribal Forestry
ROOM 2
SUPPORTING YOUR EMPLOYEES THROUGH THE STRESS CONTINUUM
Presenter: Margaret Kelso, Cornerstone Safety Group
EDUCATION SESSION #6
10:45AM - 11:45AM
ROOM 1
LEAVE NO TRACE PRINCIPLES AND CERTIFICATION
Presenter: Lauren Eck, City of Mountain View
ROOM 2
SILOS TO SYNERGIES - BUILDING A BETTER TEAM
Presenter: Bridget Irish, City of Valdez
PANEL LUNCHEON
12:00PM - 1:15PM
PRESENTATION TBA
EDUCATION SESSION #7
1:30PM - 2:30PM
NARCOTICS – IDENTIFICATION, DETECTION, RESPONSE AND INTERVENTIONS
Presenter: Gene Meek, City and Borough of Wrangell
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS CONFERENCE PROGRAM
FIELD TRIP
2:45PM - 4:45PM
Join us for a guided tour just under two hours, starting at the Nolan Center. Dan, our knowledgeable guide, will take us through Wrangell’s rich history, from Shakes House to Reliance and Heritage, where he’ll share insights into local life. We’ll also visit the Petroglyphs, with Dan providing interesting stories and facts about each stop. To keep things interactive, we’ll throw in some pop-up questions throughout the tour—test your memory and see how well you’ve been listening! It’s a great way to get to know Wrangell and enjoy a bit of local history.
SILENT AUCTION & SOCIAL COCKTAIL HOUR
6:00PM - 7:00PM
AWARDS BANQUET & ANNUAL MEETING
7:00PM - 9:00PM
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH
LIFEGUARDING INSTRUCTOR RECERTIFICATION COURSE
9:00AM - 5:00PM | WRANGELL PARKS & RECREATION
LIFEGUARDING INSTRUCTOR COURSE
10:00AM - 2:00PM | WRANGELL PARKS & RECREATION
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21ST
LIFEGUARDING INSTRUCTOR COURSE
9:00AM - 5:00PM | WRANGELL PARKS & RECREATION
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22ND
LIFEGUARDING INSTRUCTOR COURSE
8:00AM - 6:00PM | WRANGELL PARKS & RECREATION
EDUCATION SESSION DETAILS
PRE-CONFERENCE EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY
When: Tuesday, September 17th, 2024 from 8:00 AM-4:00 PM
Where: Wrangell Swimming Pool
Who: Alaska Boating Safety Program
What: Train the Trainer Program with a mixture of classroom and in-water (pool) sessions
Cost: FREE
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH
EDUCATION SESSION #1
BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH STORY-TELLING
LAURA DAVIES, WRANGELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS
This session explores the power of student-led interviews as a means of building community. By empowering students to become interviewers of community storytellers, participants will learn how to foster intergenerational connections, develop critical listening skills, and create platforms for diverse voices. Discover practical strategies for designing interview projects, teaching effective questioning techniques, and curating compelling narratives that inspire and engage the entire community.
PROPEL YOURSELF TO THE NEXT LEVEL - MOVING FROM PEER TO LEADER
MASON VILLARMA, CITY & BOROUGH OF WRANGELL
Discover the essential skills and mindsets needed to transition from a valued team member to a confident and effective leader. This session will provide practical strategies for developing leadership qualities, building strong relationships, and inspiring your team to achieve new heights. Learn how to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and create a lasting impact as a visionary leader.
EDUCATION SESSION #2
KNOW YOUR NUMBERS - MAKING BETTER OPERATIONAL DECISIONS
SCOTT BELL, CITY OF WASILLA
Discover how leveraging data can transform your facility’s operations. This session will equip you with practical tools to analyze key metrics and make informed decisions. From understanding staff workload and optimizing fee structures to measuring facility impact and planning for the future, you will learn how to use data to drive efficiency, increase revenue, and enhance customer satisfaction. Gain insights into fair pricing strategies, resource allocation, and facility development through data-driven analysis.
NAVIGATING AMERICAN RED CROSS WITH EASE
NOELANI KAMAHELE, LAVENDER’S LIFESAVING CERTIFICATIONS
This session will provide an in-depth look at the American Red Cross website, offering essential insights for instructors and administrators. Learn how to effectively manage your facility’s Red Cross account,
EDUCATION SESSION DETAILS
ensuring compliance and maximizing program offerings. Discover the range of available classes and certifications and understand the requirements for maintaining facility currency.
Attendees will gain practical tips for troubleshooting common issues and navigating the website’s features. Additionally, this session will address frequently asked questions about the American Red Cross and its programs. Leave with a clear understanding of how to optimize your facility’s Red Cross partnership.
Whether you’re a seasoned Red Cross instructor or just getting started, this session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to excel in your role.
EDUCATION SESSION #3
LEVERAGING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN EVERYDAY TASKS
LAUREN ECK, CITY OF MOUNTAIN VIEW
Discover how artificial intelligence (AI) can revolutionize the way recreation professionals operate. This session will explore practical applications of AI to streamline administrative tasks, enhance visitor experiences, and make data-driven decisions. Learn how to harness the power of AI to increase efficiency, improve program effectiveness, and stay ahead of industry trends.
MEANINGFUL PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
KATE THOMAS, CITY & BOROUGH OF WRANGELL
Description: Meaningful public engagement involves actively listening to and incorporating community input into decision-making processes. It goes beyond simply informing the public and seeks to build trust, create shared ownership, and foster collaboration. This session will explore strategies for effective engagement, including diverse outreach methods, active listening techniques, and methods for incorporating public feedback into project outcomes. Participants will learn how to build strong community partnerships and create lasting positive impacts.
EDUCATION SESSION #4
INCLUSION- MEETING KIDS WHERE THEY’RE AT
MATT NORE, WRANGELL PUBLIC SCHOOLS
This session will explore strategies for creating inclusive environments that cater to the unique needs and abilities of every child. Learn how to assess individual differences, develop differentiated instruction plans, and foster a sense of belonging for all learners. Discover practical tips for building supportive relationships with students and creating engaging learning experiences that empower and inspire.
RISK MGMT 101 - CONCEPTS OF SAFETY 1 & 2
MARGARET KELSO, CORNERSTONE SAFETY
GROUP
Risk Management 101 provides a foundational understanding of identifying, assessing, and mitigating potential risks. This session will equip attendees with practical tools to protect their organizations and individuals from unforeseen challenges.
Safety Concepts 1 & 2 delve deeper into proactive risk prevention. Participants will explore advanced strategies for creating a culture of safety and implementing comprehensive safety programs.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
MARGARET KELSO
Margaret Kelso is a Risk Management Advisor at Cornerstone Safety Group and is the Executive Director of Talisman Programs, a camp in Western North Carolina serving adolescents and young adults with ADHD and on the Autism spectrum. She is also on the Association of Experiential Education Accreditation Council and serves on the Education Committee. Since 2010 she has worked in the experimental education and wilderness/ adventure therapy field and has held leadership roles in operations, programming, and risk management with programs in North Carolina, Colorado, and Alaska. She became a W-EMT with Silverton San Juan Ambulance Association in 2013. Margaret has had multiple speaking opportunities for several national and international conferences and focuses on building a community of learners.
CONFERENCE PRESENTATION
Retaining Humanity and Heart During a Critical Incident
Critical incidents - those unexpected, terrifying events that threaten life or limb—can shatter individuals and organizations alike. These turning points can leave enduring scars or forge unbreakable bonds. Margaret has witnessed firsthand the raw power of these moments, both in her personal life and professional career. She has navigated the aftermath of such crises, supporting those caught in the storm’s eye.
Through a blend of personal experiences, the collective ordeal of the COVID-19 pandemic, and in-depth analysis of critical incident data, Margaret will unravel the complex tapestry of community response. She will explore how these events can either tear communities apart or bring them closer together.
Her goal is to equip attendees with the tools to build a robust critical incident response plan. A plan that not only protects their organizations but also prioritizes the well-being of their employees and the community. Margaret will challenge the audience to rethink their approach to crisis management, fostering a culture of collaboration and resilience. By sharing stories of triumph and adversity, she aims to inspire attendees to create a support network that extends beyond organizational boundaries, ultimately strengthening the fabric of their communities
EDUCATION SESSION DETAILS
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH
EDUCATION SESSION #5
COMMUNITY BEAUTIFICATION - PREVENTING UNDESIRABLE SPECIES
JONI JOHNSON, USFS, STATE, PRIVATE & TRIBAL FORESTRY
Communities are a hot spot for the introduction and spread of invasive plants. Given that almost every single Alaska community is next door to pristine habitat, Parks and Recreation Departments can work with invasive plant managers to both prevent the introduction of undesirable plants and combat the spread. There is a lot of great work that can be done: What are plants to be concerned about and how to identify them?, Who in your region works with managing invasive plants and would like to partner with you?, What are some surprises?
SUPPORTING YOUR EMPLOYEES THROUGH THE STRESS CONTINUUM
MARGARET KELSO, CORNERSTONE SAFETY GROUP
This session will explore strategies for helping employees navigate the challenges of workplace stress. From recognizing early signs of stress to implementing comprehensive well-being programs, attendees will gain practical tools to foster a supportive and resilient workforce.
EDUCATION SESSION #6
LEAVE NO TRACE PRINCIPLES AND CERTIFICATION
LAUREN ECK, CITY OF MOUNTAIN VIEW
This session will delve into the essential Leave No Trace principles, providing practical guidance for reducing human impact on natural environments. Participants will learn how to plan and prepare for outdoor adventures, travel and camp responsibly, dispose of waste properly, leave what you find, minimize campfire impacts, respect wildlife, and be considerate of other visitors.
SILOS TO SYNERGIES - BUILDING A BETTER TEAM
BRIDGET IRISH, CITY OF VALDEZ
Like many organizations, we feel that our recreation division has silo’s, resulting in poor communication across sub-divisions and lack of teamwork amongst our front-line workers. In this presentation, we will be diving into our journey of creating our “dream team”. Over the next 6 months our Recreation FTE’s will lead our front line workers in monthly staff meetings that focus on elements (such as team building and job knowledge) needed to create a cohesive team. Staff will be surveyed on their job satisfaction, performance, and feelings of belonging in the workplace before the start of this journey and again after 6 months. We hope to share the first 6 months of our journey with fellow P&R professionals and want to welcome open discussion about managing teams and building up your front line workers.
EDUCATION SESSION DETAILS
EDUCATION SESSION #7
NARCOTICS – IDENTIFICATION, DETECTION, RESPONSE AND INTERVENTIONS
POLICE CHIEF GENE MEEK, CITY & BOROUGH OF WRANGELL
Gain critical insights into the evolving landscape of narcotics from the perspective of law enforcement. The local police chief will share expertise on identifying and detecting various substances, developing effective response plans, and implementing intervention strategies. This session provides essential information for community members, professionals, and those interested in understanding the impact of narcotics on our community.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20TH
POST-CONFERENCE AQUATICS CERTIFICATION
When: Friday, September 20th, 2024
Where: Wrangell Swimming Pool
Who: Noelani Kamahele, Owner / Red Cross Instructor, Lavender’s Lifesaving Certifications, LLC
What: Lifeguard Instructor Recertification Course
Cost: $275
SEPTEMBER 20TH - 22ND
POST-CONFERENCE AQUATICS CERTIFICATION
When: Friday-Sunday, September 20th – 22nd , 2024
Where: Wrangell Swimming Pool
Who: Noelani Kamahele, Owner / Red Cross Instructor, Lavender’s Lifesaving Certifications, LLC
What: Lifeguard Instructor Course
Cost: $475
SPONSORS PROFILES
KEYNOTE SPONSOR
SILVER SALMON
PINK SALMON
ARPA BOARD MEMBERS
LEADERSHIP TEAM
President
JOEL TODD
Soldotna, AK
Vice President LAUREN ANDERSON
Ann Arbor, MI
Secretary KATE THOMAS Wrangell, AK
Member at Large
TRISHA LEVASSEUR Fairbanks, AK
THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS WILL BE FILLED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING: Secretary, Member Services, Member at Large III
OUR MISSION
President Elect
TYLER BEST Kenai, AK
Past President
MIKE ILLG Homer, AK
Member at Large I
KEN WILSON Valdez, AK
Member Services Support
COLIN DRURY CCO, MyRec
• Providing a forum for interchange of ideas and information among parks, recreation and wild land professionals and supporters;
• Promoting the personal, environmental, social and economic beliefs of parks, recreation and wild lands;
• Coordination, organizing, and promoting quality educational opportunities;
• Preparing and providing educational information relating to parks, recreation and wild lands.
SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
NW PLAYGROUND SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERS
ELLE CAMPBELL
Elle Campbell is excited to represent Sitka at this year’s ARPA conference! Originally from Juneau, Elle is a lifelong southeast Alaskan. After completing college at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, WA, she served as the Technical Director at the Sitka Performing Arts Center before landing at Sitka Parks and Recreation this year. Elle is excited to support accessible, diverse programming, especially in the arts. In her free time, Elle loves to explore new cookbooks, volunteer with Sitka Community Theater, puzzle through the New York Times crossword, and work as a freelance sound and light technician.
SAMANTHA HAGERTHY-SCHNEIDER
Pool Operations Leader at the Bob Korn Memorial Swimming Pool in Cordova Alaska
Certifications - LG, LGI, WSI and CPO
I am originally from Maine, relocating to Cordova in the fall of 2021. My background includes maintenance, accounting, working and volunteering with elementary age children and supervising teams consisting of 14-25yo.
The pool in town seemed to be a great place to meet the community so I completed lifeguard training and began my Parks and Recreation adventure!
Since my hire in early 2022, with the strong support from my Director, I have focused not only on furthering my education and understanding of our department but creating and building relationships with the community. This includes education on safe aquatics practices, staff training and incentives, and pool maintenance. This has helped me develop a new swim program and administer it, play an essential role in our current CIP, conduct lifeguard and swim coach training and provide CPR training as part of the on-boarding process for all Parks and Recreation staff. Aside from aquatics I have also been able to help develop, promote and administer youth and adult recreation programs including outdoor soccer, Pop up Play in our parks, and volleyball.
I live with my husband and adventure partner, Daniel. We have two grown children and one perfect granddaughter. In my free time I love to paddleboard, hike, watercolor, nature journal, travel and volunteer as much as possible.
ARPA AWARDS
PROFESSIONAL AWARD
This is the highest recognition that ARPA can bestow upon a deserving candidate. The person will be carefully chosen. In considering a candidate for the Professional Award, he/ she must meet the qualifications as set forth in the criteria for this high award.
NEW PROFESSIONAL AWARD
These professionals are not necessarily the superintendents or leaders that have been visible in the field, but are the “up and coming” leaders. They should possess all of those qualities and talents that will eventually place them in the top leadership, but at this time in their careers, they are climbing.
BOB ROBERTSON SERVICE AWARD
This award is for service to the Alaska Recreation and Park Association by members of the association. These are the people that volunteer to be on committees, to work with their sections, to help with conferences and workshops and generally are the backbone of the Association. This award was approved by the Board in 1995. It is a Board Award in that the nominees are selected only by the ARPA Board.
OUTSTANDING BUSINESS PARTNER AWARD
The purpose of this award is to annually recognize one (1) outstanding business partner that has supported ARPA and its mission. This support can be shown in any manner.
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
A recipient who receives this award shall have made noteworthy and measurable positive contributions to ARPA. Past recipients have made contributions such as procedures manuals, template formatting, led a specific campaign or training or other such tangible results. While many ARPA members are willing and able to contribute monumental services, a recipient of this LAA has volunteered to serve in the most demanding of offices and ARPA work.
DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
This achievement award is given to a deserving individual and/or group whose voluntary contribution of time and effort over the years has improved the quality and quantity of leisure opportunities through park, recreation, and conservation projects on the local, state, regional, or national levels.
OUTSTANDING ORGANIZATION AWARD
This award recognizes the agencies, departments, and organizations that make great contributions to their community and to the improvement of recreation in Alaska.
FACILITY EXCELLENCE AWARD
This award recognizes significant new projects, major renovations, or long-term performance as a flagship of recreation. Any facility from any area of recreation, from trails to aquatic centers, is eligible.
ARPA APPRECIATION AWARD
The rare ARPA Appreciation Award is nominated by an ARPA Board Member who has noted special skills and contributions.
AWARDS TO BE ANNOUNCED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING AND BANQUET DINNER.
Awards nominations for 2023 have been received. The winning candidates from several categories will be announced at the Annual Meeting and Banquet Dinner.
