Minnesota Recreation & Parks Magazine - Fall 2014

MINNESOTA Official Publication of Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

Recreation and Parks Volume 9, Issue 3 • Fall 2014

Zanewood Recreation Center Welcomes International Delegation

New Water Play Area in Rosemount

Brainerd Lakes Miracle League Field

www.mnrpa.org

MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks

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

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

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

FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT

By Mary Pat Black, MRPA President

The theme of this year’s conference, “Enhancing Community” at the 2014 MRPA Annual Conference at the National Sports Center in Blaine, is something we are all hard at work trying to accomplish. Thank you to the 300 delegates who joined your colleagues and friends and attended this year’s conference.

The conference committee, co-chaired by Nate Monahan, from the City of Blaine and Andy Soltvedt, from Anoka County, did everything they could to give you the biggest return on your investment and what a wonderful job they did. I want to thank everyone who played a part in making this a very successful conference. Our annual conference is our incubator for expanding our horizons, and featured sessions to help you enhance your communities even more.

The conference began with a pre-conference institute on Tuesday, “Enhancing Your Community Through Communication.” A sampling of sessions that were offered throughout the conference included Arts in the Park, Capitalizing on Nature, Organizational Planning, and much more.

But most importantly, those who attended the conference made an investment in yourself as you came away with the tools you need to help enhance your community.

While “Enhancing Community” is important, there’s also something to be said about enjoying the moment. To that end, the conference committee had planned several fun opportunities to socialize with your fellow colleagues by playing golf at the TPC in Blaine, experience curling at Fogerty Arena and the Totally 80s Network Social on the field at the National Sports Center featuring a “Family Feud” competition that was a hit. It was four great days of learning and reconnecting with old and new friends.

Deadlines for Articles and Advertising Summer 2014 issue................................May 13 Fall 2014 issue......................................... July 30 Winter 2014-15 issue...................... October 14 Spring 2015 issue.......................... February 28 MRPA reserves the right to approve all submitted advertising in MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks magazine. All requests for advertising should be made to Todd Pernsteiner, Account Manager, at 952.841.1111 or info@pernsteiner.com.

An affiliate of National Recreation and Park Association

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Fall 2014 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Take the Next Step in Your Leadership Journey: Emerging Recreation Leaders Institute 2

From the Board President............................................................... 3

Begins March 2015

Zanewood Recreation Center Welcomes International Delegation............................................ 12

Foundation Corner.......................................................................... 5 Keeping Up....................................................................................... 6 MRPA in Action................................................................................ 7 Meet Lisa Abernathy....................................................................... 7 Minneapolis Retains Title as Nation’s Best Park System............. 8 Brainerd Lakes Miracle League Field.......................................... 10

New Interpretive Center at Springbrook Nature Center.......... 14 A New Type of Park Takes Shape: Public Art Meets Environmental Science.................................................................. 16 “We are not what we know but what we are willing to learn.” - Mary Catherine Bateson

New Water Play Area in Rosemount............................................ 18 City of New Ulm Installs New Outdoor Fitness Equipment..... 20

Join us for the Emerging Recreation Leaders Institute 2, which will run from March to May 2015. This six-session institute will expand on the core areas that were covered in the first institute. New leadership experiences will also be explored. ERLI 2 is designed for professionals with five or more years of experience.

Participants will have an opportunity to enhance their knowledge in the following areas: project management, relationship-building, financial oversight, strategic presentations, and more through interactive small-group work and exercises. Professional members and outside-the-profession speakers will serve as faculty for each session. Space is limited. Early registration is highly encouraged.

No pre-requisite programs required.

Visit mnrpa.org for program updates.

MARCH 5 All About You: Knowing Yourself and Professional Development

MRPA Flashback..............................................................Back Cover

MARCH 19 Understanding and Working with Others: RelationshipBuilding, Communication, and Conflict Resolution

ADVERTISER INDEX

APRIL 2 Creativity, Process, and Facility Tour APRIL 16 Project Management: From Concept to Completion APRIL 30 Strategic Presentations: Writing and Presenting MAY 14 Putting It All Together: Implementation and Evaluation

THANK YOU TO OUR PROGRAM SPONSORS:

Commercial Recreation Specialists............................................. 21 Discover St. Louis Park.................................................................. 20 Fahrner Asphalt................................................................................ 5 HIWAY Federal Credit Union........................................................ 23 Landscape Structures.....................................................................11 Musco Lighting................................................................................ 4 R.J. Thomas Manufacturing.......................................................... 17 SEH.................................................................................................... 3 St. Croix Recreation........................................... Inside Front Cover

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For Your Budget For The Environment ©2014 Musco Sports Lighting, LLC · ADMN14-2

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FOUNDATION CORNER

Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation: Supporting Parks and Recreation and our Members

by John Stutzman, City of Bloomington MRPF Is….

Excited to welcome Jamie Cassidy, Becker Community Center Director, to the MRPF Board of Trustees. The MRPF Board of Trustees provides leadership to help offer educational and networking opportunities, program grants, student and continuing education scholarships, and support for the Minnesota Recreation and Park Association. Additionally, we are always looking for new ways to support our members in the recreation profession. If there are areas of the recreation profession you would like to see the Foundation become more involved in or events you would like to have us provide, please contact the MRPF President Nate Rosa at nrosa@stlouispark.org.

Not a member or need to renew your membership? For $25 you can become a member of the Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation.

To register for your MRPF membership or to renew your current membership visit http://www.mnrpa.org/mrpf or contact Jack Kirk at Jack.Kirk@fridleymn.gov for more information.

MRPF EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES – NOT A MEMBER, NO PROBLEM: FEEL FREE TO JOIN US ANYWAY

MRPF Annual Golf Tournament

The tournament was held Friday September 12 at the historic Keller Golf Course in Maplewood. It was a fun day with over 65 golfers and continued support from sponsors. Thank you to everyone who came out to support the MRPF! Special thanks to Jody Yungers and Michelle Margo for organizing the tournament again this year! Your continued support is greatly appreciated.

2014 MRPA Annual Conference

MRPF continues to be a proud sponsor of the MRPA conference through financial sponsorship, financial assistance packages, the Student Luncheon, and a booth at Thursday’s Exhibit Hall with the membership drive, silent auction and raffle.

New Initiative Grants

Each year, MRPF awards financial support to members’ organizations who are working to develop new and innovative programs. These grants are intended to spur innovation in the parks and recreation field starting at the local, regional, or state level which might ultimately impact the future of recreation services throughout the state of Minnesota. Applications are available at http://www.mnrpa.org/mrpf/ and are due Friday, October 17 at 4:30 p.m. Grant award announcements will be made on Friday, December 5. Contact Lisa Abernathy at labernathy@stlouispark.org for more details.

Student Scholarships

The MRPF Student Scholarships are intended to help promote and enable excellence in the field of parks and recreation by providing financial assistance to juniors, seniors and graduate students majoring in a Minnesota accredited four-year curriculum with a park and recreation emphasis. For 2014, MRPF will offer up to five, $1,000 scholarships.

Scholarship applications and information will be available in October with the deadline for submitting scholarship application materials in November.

Casual Connections

This is a program designed to bring newer and seasoned professionals together in a relaxing environment to discuss opportunities, network, troubleshoot situations and exchange ideas. Watch for details regarding the upcoming Casual Connections event scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on October 23 at the University of Minnesota Rec Center with parks and recreation students.

She’ll soon need new playground equipment.

Stay top of mind.

For as little as $350 per issue, MRPA gets you in front of key recreation and park decision-makers.

No other form of advertising gets you so targeted.

MINNESOTA

Recreation and Parks

Go to www.pernsteiner.com/MRPAmagazine2013.pdf to download the advertising rate card or call Todd at (952) 841-1111.

Fall 2014 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 5

KEEPING UP

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

Johnnie Johnsen Retires from St. Croix Recreation Long-time MRPA corporate member Johnnie Johnsen has retired from St. Croix Recreation. “After getting out of the Navy,” says Johnsen, “I attended college and chose park and recreation administration for my degree. While in the Navy, I was the recreation petty officer and enjoyed setting up events for our division and decided to pursue my interest.”

His career in parks and recreation began while he was attending college. Johnsen had a part-time job with the Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation. “At that point in time, there was a federal program, Comprehensive Employment Training Act (CETA), and I received a full-time job in District 3B just north of the San Fernando Valley,” explains Johnsen. “This was in the

mid-70s. After several years I grew tired of the smog and over population. I came to a wedding in Minnesota and decided this place wasn’t so bad, and moved here in 1978.”

Johnsen has been a member of MRPA for over 30 years. He has been involved in supporting the organization and requests from the different directors over the years. “As an associate member, I feel an obligation to help the members any way we can and it has been mostly through donations and supporting the conferences by exhibiting and the exhibit hall,” states Johnsen. “I respect this profession. Parks and recreation is a profession that does more for the wellbeing of a community than any other department as far as I am concerned. I wish all the members of the MRPA all the best and hope for more funding than you know what to do with! It has been a great ride and I thank you all for the opportunity to have been a very small part of this wonderful organization!”

Anoka County Commissioner Jim Kordiak Receives the Outstanding Public Official Award At the National Association of County Park and Recreation Official (NACPRO) annual awards ceremony on July 13, 2014, Anoka County Commissioner Jim Kordiak received the outstanding public official award. The NACPRO event was part of the larger National Association of Counties annual conference in New Orleans, Louisiana.

“It was a proud moment for Anoka County, and a well-earned and deserving recognition for Commissioner Kordiak,” says John VonDelinde, parks and recreation director for Anoka County. “The NACPRO outstanding public official award is presented to an elected or appointed local official who has contributed significantly to the field of county parks, recreation, and open space program. So I can’t think of a person mere deserving than our own Commissioner Jim Kordiak.”

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Kordiak has been a county commissioner since 1987, representing District 4, in the southern part of Anoka County.

During his entire 27 years of service on the county board, Jim has been a member of the county’s park and recreation committee. And since 2011, Kordiak has served as the chair of the parks and recreation committee.

As a direct result of Commissioner Kordiak’s outstanding vison and leadership, Anoka County currently manages 11,000 acres of parks and natural areas, serving more than 3.8 million visitors annually.

MRPA IN ACTION MRPA Facility Tour Members toured parks and recreation facilities during the MRPA Facility Tour on August 13. The tour was hosted by the Parks, Natural Resources, and Facilities Section. The facilities visited during the tour included: • Como Park Zoo and Conservatory - The Ordway Gardens, featuring the Conservatory’s Bonsai collection and Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden – Saint Paul; • Keller Golf Course, a classic-style championship-quality golf course that has a rich history and tradition – Ramsey County; • Elm Creek Park Reserve off-road cycling trail managed by Three Rivers Park District – Champlin; • Round Lake Park - play structure, a splash pad, picnic pavilion and skate plaza – Eden Prairie; • Minnehaha Wabun Picnic Area Universal Access Playground and Minnehaha North Plateau Playground – Minneapolis; and • Rock Island Swing Bridge – Inver Grove Heights.

MRPA extends a special thank you to those involved in highlighting their facilities, as well as to Jared Flewellen for his work on coordinating the facility tour. MRPA is also grateful for the support of tour sponsor, MTI Distributing.

< Meet Lisa Abernathy

From a young age, Lisa Abernathy was always involved in some sort of park and recreation activity or sport. “When I turned 15, my mother encouraged me to write to the parks and recreation director of Brooklyn Park to inquire about a summer job,” says Lisa Abernathy, recreation supervisor for the City of St. Louis Park. “I remember feeling in awe after receiving a letter and application from Mr. Palm, encouraging me to apply for a playground leader position.”

Eleven years later, she was still working for the City of Brooklyn Park in a variety of programs and events. At the time, she was pursuing a career in elementary education.

“Thankfully after talking to a few of my supervisors and some encouragement from Jay Lotthammer, I realized recreation may be worth looking into,” states Abernathy. “I changed majors and transferred to the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities where I met the wise Harvey Feldman. My life forever changed and knew it was the career path for me.”

Abernathy worked for the Brooklyn Park Recreation and Parks Department part-time from age 15 until shortly after she started her first full-time job as a recreation supervisor with the City of Falcon Heights. Along the way, she had an internship with the City of Chanhassen, where she also worked part-time teaching dance at their Rec Center. She also worked part-time for Roseville and New Brighton. In each city, she worked in a variety of programs and events to gain experience and get to know people in the profession.

“As a student of Harvey Feldman’s, I had heard a lot about MRPA and the importance of becoming involved early on,” states Abernathy. “When I started with the City of Falcon Heights as the sole recreation supervisor, I started attending MRPA Programming Section meetings to learn what it was all about. Also to meet other professionals, as it would be essential being I didn’t have anyone in my field to bounce ideas off of or turn to in Falcon Heights.”

Abernathy then became the Programming Section secretary (2008 to 2009). From 2006 to 2011 she was involved in and chaired the Summer Leadership Workshop. In 2009, she served on the volunteer committee for the annual conference and then chaired the committee for the 2011 annual conference. She is currently helping with the Emerging Recreation Leaders Institute II program coming up next year, and will serve as the Programming Section chair starting in September.

“I have gained SO much from MRPA!” says Abernathy.

“Since becoming an active member, I’ve not only expanded my knowledge in recreation field but it’s helped me become a more confident leader which has been helpful both professionally and personally. I think our field is unique in itself and MRPA does a wonderful job bringing us all together in many ways to support each other in our common goal of providing recreation for others. You don’t find many other professions that are special like that.”

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.

Fall 2014 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 7

Minneapolis Retains Title as

Nation’s Best Park System

on The Trust for Public Land’s 2014 ParkScore® Index “This top rating is a wonderful tribute to all of the individuals who, for the past 131 years, have made the park system what it is today.”

Liz Wielinski, President of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board

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M

inneapolis took top honors on The Trust for Public Land’s 3rd annual ParkScore® index, earning a perfect “5-park bench” rating from the nonprofit organization. Minneapolis remains the only city park system to earn the coveted “5 bench” score on the ParkScore Index, as the city held on to the top spot for the second consecutive year.

“We’re thrilled to receive this prestigious honor from The Trust for Public Land a second time. When residents voted for an independent Park Board in 1883, they most likely didn’t envision a park system that would grow to 6,790 acres of parkland serving more than 21 million visits each year. Today we honor the legacy that created the park system, and continue our work to ensure that parks and park services are accessible to everyone, with a focus on the most diverse, underserved areas of the city. Our strong community relationships, public, private and nonprofit partnerships make this possible,” says Jayne Miller, Superintendent of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board.

ParkScores are based equally on three factors: Park access, which measures the percentage of residents living within a 10-minute walk of a park (approximately ½-mile); Park size, which is based on a city’s median park size and the percentage of total city area dedicated to parks; and Services and investment, which combines the number of playgrounds per 10,000 city residents and per capita park spending. In addition to the national ranking, each city receives a “park bench” rating on a scale of zero to five.

Minneapolis scored strongly on all ParkScore rating factors. With 94 percent of residents living within a 10-minute walk of a park, the city received especially high marks for park access. The city’s strong parks budget also boosted its ParkScore rating. Second-place finisher New York fared slightly better on park access, with 97 percent of residents living with within a 10-minute walk of a park.

However, New York was hurt by its low median park size, just 1.1 acres compared to Minneapolis’ 7.1-acre median.

“This top rating is a wonderful tribute to all of the individuals who, for the past 131 years, have made the park system what it is today. I want to assure the people of Minneapolis and the Twin Cities region that we’re not done yet. We are committed to opening new public green spaces, and improving parks that already exist,” said Liz Wielinski, President of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board.

Local leaders were at the May 29, 2014 event announcing Minneapolis’ number one park rating to talk about their collaborative work with the Park Board. Senator Jeff

Hayden spoke about the State funding support that has allowed for development of East Phillips and many other parks and park facilities. Minneapolis Urban League President and CEO Scott Gray addressed the work his organization and the Park are doing to employ city residents.

Minneapolis Public School Superintendent Bernadeia Johnson shared details about the joint efforts to provide enhanced programming for the city’s youth.

“You can’t have a great city without great parks,” said Adrian Benepe, Senior Vice President and Director of City Park Development for The Trust for Public Land. “Parks provide places for children and adults to be physically active, and they serve as community meeting places where friendships are built and a sense of community is strengthened.”

ParkScore uses advanced GIS (geographic information system) computer mapping technology to create digital maps evaluating park accessibility, making it the most realistic assessment system available. Instead of simply measuring distance to a local park, ParkScore’s GIS technology takes into account the location of park entrances and physical obstacles to access. For example, if residents are separated from a nearby park by a major highway, ParkScore does not count the park as accessible to those residents (unless there is a bridge, underpass, or easy access point across the highway).

According to The Trust for Public Land, the 10 highest-ranking city park systems in the United States are:

“You can’t have a great city without great parks. Parks provide places for children and adults to be physically active, and they serve as community meeting places where friendships are built and a sense of community is strengthened.”

Adrian Benepe, Senior Vice President and Director of City Park Development for The Trust for Public Land.

1. Minneapolis 5.0 park benches 2. New York 4.5 park benches 3. Boston (tie) 4.0 park benches 3. Portland (tie) 4.0 park benches 3. San Francisco (tie) 4.0 park benches 6. Washington, DC 4.0 park benches 7. Denver (tie) 4.0 park benches 7 Sacramento (tie) 4.0 park benches 9. San Diego 4.0 park benches 10. Virginia Beach (tie) 4.0 park benches 10. Aurora, CO (tie) 4.0 park benches DEBUT CITY For more information about ParkScore, visit parkscore.tpl.org and join the discussion on Twitter @TPL_org #ParkScore.

Fall 2014 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 9

Brainerd Lakes

Miracle League Field

By Bethani Gerhard, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

The City of Brainerd had their Miracle League field grand opening in Bane Park on May 31. The field is used by physically and mentally disabled individuals to play baseball, and has an artificial turf surface to allow those using mobility devices to easily navigate.

“The Miracle League field in Brainerd is unique because it is only the third field in the world with the Pebble Flex polyurethane turf, which was recently approved by the national headquarters,” says Tony Sailer, director of Brainerd Parks and Recreation. “Also, the closest Miracle League fields to Brainerd are over 60 miles away, one in St. Cloud and another in Duluth.”

Brainerd’s Miracle League field and asphalt pathways received a 2013 Minnesota Recreation and Park Association Award of Excellence in the category of park and facility. The Miracle League field is named “The Bonnie Cumberland Memorial Field” after a long-time ISD 181 school teacher, former Brainerd mayor, and at the time of her sudden death, the City Council chairwoman.

In 2011, a three-stage plan was developed to upgrade Bane Park. The first stage was to replace a 70-year old building with an ADA-compliant combination building consisting of a concession stand, warming house, and restrooms. “Park dedication funds totaling $120,000 were used to construct the building,” states Sailer. “This new concrete building replaced the 70-year old structure that was a fire hazard and did not provide any amenities to serve the disabled.”

The second phase was raising funds for the construction of the Miracle League field. “Staff began working with the

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national and state Miracle League organizations to meet their compliance standards,” says Sailer. “In addition to the city engineering department, a local architectural firm provided in-kind services to develop schematics of the field once funds were raised and construction could begin.”

The third phase was to construct an asphalt trail system which extends from two parking lots and street access, and extends past the Miracle League field and concession stand area. “Bane Park is now the first park in the City of Brainerd to have an ADA-compliant trail system leading from the parking lots and a street that allows mobility to the concession stand and restrooms,” states Sailer. “The Miracle Field is located next to two youth baseball fields, so individuals with disabilities will feel part of the whole baseball experience.”

According to Sailer, a Miracle League field committee was formed to help raise funds from local businesses, service organizations and area residents so no tax dollars would be used. “Brainerd’s Miracle League field gained support from the community,” says Sailer.

“We raised a grand total of $204,000 for the field.” The City received a $50,000 grant from the Otto Bremer Foundation.

Other major funding came from the Brainerd VFW Club, the Gustafson Family Foundation of Brainerd, the Big Wiff Wiffle Ball events and mini-grand prix race, as well as donations from local businesses and citizens.

The City’s next plan is to raise funds to build an all-inclusive playground next to the Miracle League field.

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Fall 2014 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 11

Zanewood Recreation Center Welcomes

International Delegation

By Bethani Gerhard, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

Zanewood Recreation Center in Brooklyn Park is considered a positive international model for helping at-risk youth.

On July 23, Zanewood Recreation Center had visitors from countries across the world as part of the U.S. State Department’s Visitor Leadership Program to learn about community partnerships in providing opportunities for youth, as well as making communities more peaceful.

There were six participants from countries such as Cambodia, Croatia and Tanzania who are working on a project titled ‘Youth and Community Conflict Resolution.’

They were in the United States to get ideas on how to end youth violence in their countries. Representatives from

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the City of Brooklyn Park, Zanewood Recreation Center, and the Brooklyn Park police participated in the event.

“The participants had already visited New York, Maryland and Washington, D.C., before coming to Minnesota,” states Brooklyn Park City Manager Jamie Verbrugge. “While in Minnesota, they visited a number of different sites in the metro area. The delegation expressed their opinion that the visit to Zanewood was by far the most organized presentation and structured conversation they had the benefit of experiencing thus far. They were greatly impressed with the quality of information and the number of city staff who participated.”

The location was chosen in part because it is a good example of collaboration between police and city government, as well as multiple stories about collaboration, police partnership, providing opportunities for youth, city support and improving the quality of life for at-risk-youth.

Zanewood, a remodeled school at 7100 Zane Avenue North, is located near low-income neighborhoods in the heart of the Zane Avenue. The center is open nine hours on school days, and four hours a day on weekends. Many students at Northview Junior High walk a few blocks north to Zanewood after school.

“The delegation expressed their opinion that the visit to Zanewood was by far the most organized presentation and structured conversation they had the benefit of experiencing thus far. They were greatly impressed with the quality of information and the number of city staff who participated.”

Brooklyn Park City Manager, Jamie Verbrugge

“The city has invested more than $3 million in youth programs since Zanewood went seven days a week in 2009,” says Michelle Margo, manager of Zanewood Recreation Center.

“This year’s budget is $710,829. Staff and programs have increased from 1.5 positions in 2009 to four full-time workers, five part-timers and as many as 40 seasonal jobs.”

Margo adds there are educational youth activities including field trips to area colleges and universities to learn what it takes to get admitted. “Other activities include zumba, building birdhouses, a photo club, karate and a rock climbing wall,” she states. “Some of the activities were suggested by the youth that serve on Zanewood’s teen advisory board.”

Brooklyn Park’s population is almost half minority, with large numbers of Liberians, Asians, and other ethnic groups. Many African-American and immigrant families need youth activities and support programs and the city programs at Zanewood are needed and well received within the community.

Verbrugge states, “I want to specifically acknowledge Michelle Margo for her exceptional work coordinating this event, as well as CRU Officer Shawn Fricke, Anthony Bates, Jan Ficken, Kim Berggren and Todd Milburn for their significant contributions to the discussion. And thanks to all of our other staff who participated representing Recreation and Parks, Community Engagement, and Administration.”

He adds that he is extremely grateful to be a part of this team: “Our team made Brooklyn Park proud – while giving a significant amount of credit and praise to the City Council for your support – and demonstrated once again why we continue to see impressive difference-making results in the work focused on ensuring the youth of our community have the hope, resources and support necessary to be successful.”

Because of this visit, four leaders from Israel participating in a project entitled “Social Services for At-Risk and Traumatized Youth” came to visit Zanewood on September 8. They came to see the successful community partnership model on behalf of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP).

More about Brooklyn Park’s Youth Violence Prevention Initiative From 2003-2006, Brooklyn Park experienced a surge in violent crime. That spike was in large part due to a significant rise in violent crime involving young people, with approximately half of the total arrests citywide involving juvenile offenders.

Brooklyn Park’s City Council created the Youth Violence Prevention Initiative (YVPI), a comprehensive, multifaceted, partnership between police and recreation to prevent youth violence.

Part and parcel with the creation of the YVPI was the opening of an evening reporting center, reassignment of police officers to create the Community Response Unit, adding Street Outreach Workers, a curfew center, and new police sub-station serving primarily the Zane Avenue Corridor.

The chief of police and recreation and parks director combined forces between policing and recreational activities to attack juvenile crime.

City and community leaders recognized that preventing violence demands not only a long-term commitment, but strategies and new partnerships.

These combined efforts focus on prevention, and not solely on aggressive responses to violence.

Fall 2014 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 13

NEW INTERPRETIVE CENTER AT SPRINGBROOK NATURE CENTER Reprinted with permission from the Fridley Community Report

S

pringbrook Nature Center is often described as a jewel of wilderness hidden within an urban setting. After being awarded a five million dollar grant from the State of Minnesota for a new interpretive center, this jewel is about to shine much brighter. New exhibits, expanded classrooms, visitor amenities and beautiful rental spaces will create an incredible resource for the people of Fridley.

For over a decade, a dedicated group of people from the City of Fridley and the non-profit Springbrook Nature Center Foundation have worked to create and implement the S.P.R.I.N.G. (Sanctuary Protection and Renewal Into the Next Generation) Project. This comprehensive plan to revitalize the seven-acre park entrance and interpretive center at the nature center will allow the site to expand its programming, host weddings and events, and continue to provide world-class environmental education to an ever-growing audience.

After being awarded the grant, the City of Fridley and Springbrook Nature Center Foundation have been busy visiting sites to research designs and have worked with nationally known Split Rock Studios of Arden Hills to create an exciting conceptual design for the center’s new exhibits. The designs feature a dramatic building entrance full of large sculptures recreating the park’s wetlands. Visitors will walk beneath huge cattails as they encounter frogs, ducks and turtles.

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AS A STAFF, WE ARE INCREDIBLY EXCITED TO LOOK AHEAD AT FUN AND EDUCATIONAL EXHIBITS, EXPANDED CLASSROOM SPACE FOR OUR PROGRAMS AND TO BE ABLE TO SHARE THIS AMAZING NATURAL AREA WITH AN EXPANDED AUDIENCE.” Mike Maher, nature center director

The proposed exhibits feature interactive elements for visitors of all ages. One concept is for a large cutout of a soil “cube.” Visitors can walk around and interact with mushrooms and plants on top, see the roots and insects beneath, and even crawl through it to discover the many organisms hidden within.

being planning the new building for construction. According to Mike Maher, nature center director, “As a staff, we are incredibly excited to look ahead at fun and educational exhibits, expanded classroom space for our programs and to be able to share this amazing natural area with an expanded audience.”

Beyond the concept designs, the next steps will be to interview and hire a project manager and architect to

While the new interpretive center will be the immediate priority, the S.P.R.I.N.G. Project also includes plans for a new picnic pavilion, outdoor classrooms a nature-based play area, an amphitheater and a landscaped memorial plaza. The Springbrook Nature Center Foundation is currently launching a fundraising campaign to raise the additional three million dollars that will be needed to complete the vision.

Exciting opportunities for community involvement include a message walkway. You will have a chance to be a part of the new design by purchasing an engraved paver with a personal message or dedication that will be incorporated into the all new Springbook Nature Center. For the most up-to-date information on the project, please visit springbrooknaturecenter.org.

Fall 2014 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 15

A New Type of Park Takes Shape Public Art Meets Environmental Science

On a sunny mid-summer Saturday morning, a crowd gathered in Saint Paul’s newest temporary park, the Urban Flower Field. Over 100 people wandered down from the corner of 10th and Robert streets in downtown Saint Paul to walk around the space, drink lemonade, and paint field stones. Without knowing it, they were helping develop a novel approach for connecting public art, science, and the civic process.

Creative Transition This corner of downtown Saint Paul was once home to the Pedro Luggage

and Briefcase Center. Pedro Luggage was founded in the early 1900s by Carl Pedro Sr., an Italian immigrant to Saint Paul, and was run by his grandchildren until it closed in 2008.

The family donated the land to the city in 2009 with the stipulation that the space be transformed into a park. The site has remained largely undeveloped as plans for a permanent park develop. In the interim, the City of Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Department sought a project idea for a temporary installation that could transform the site from an abandoned lot to a community gathering space.

16 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

The city commissioned Public Art Saint Paul Artist-in-Residence Amanda Lovelee to work together with Saint Paul Parks Design and Construction Division to make this transformation.

A team of artists, scientists, designers, landscape architects, contractors and community volunteers were assembled to create a space that is both beautiful and thought provoking.

Combining Art and Science A unique feature of the Urban Flower Field is the incorporation of an active environmental science experiment into the project. The experiment, designed

By Mike Hahm – Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Director Elizabeth Chambers, Adam Kay, Hunter Gaitan – Department of Biology, University of St. Thomas | Amanda Lovelee – Public Art St. Paul

and executed by undergraduate students and faculty at the University of St. Thomas, focuses on assessing whether mixtures of plant species can more effectively remove contaminants from soils than single species can. The site is well-suited for this type of research because the soil on the site contains measurable heavy metal concentrations typical of urban areas.

Lovelee’s design allows for the experiment to be both professional science and a contribution to the artistic vision of the site. The plants in the study are eight species of wildflowers: black-eyed susans, blue indigo, canola, geranium, red phlox, two sunflower variants, and wild lupine. The flowers are planted in 96 5-ft-wide circles arranged in eight spirals representing the naturally occurring Fibonacci sequence. They are planted in mixtures of 1, 2, 4, or 8 species in each circle. Throughout the growing season, the researchers take soil samples and measure concentrations of metals using an X-ray fluorescence analyzer. The size and scope of the project makes the experiment eligible for possible publication in a science journal. The use of wildflowers in an artistic design enhances the beauty of the site and encourages community members to connect to the space.

The Urban Flower Field also has other inviting aspects.

The ground design is reflected in a vast mural, created

by Ed Charboneau that rises up from the west border of the site. Field stones, colorfully decorated by community members, line each of the spirals. A central patio and colorful Adirondack chairs provide places for visitors to relax. Signs and paintings created by intern Abby Kapler explain the artistic vision, the science experiment, and the biology of the wildflowers.

A Temporary Project With A Lasting Impact The Urban Flower Field is a true cross-pollination between art, science, and civic participation. Events at the site have allowed for community members, artists, and scientists to interact and discuss their impressions of the project. Many visitors have been enthusiastic about the work. A survey revealed that the site has begun to transform from an “unhappy” place to a “lovely” place that will serve as a green community gathering space in downtown.

Because the project involves no major infrastructure installations, its presence will not complicate the future development of a permanent park on the site. The organizers hope that the project will make a lasting impact on the imagination of city residents while generating valuable results for the scientific community.

Visit publicartstpaul.com/urban to learn more, and see how this type of project could be done in your community.

Fall 2014 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 17

New

in Rosemount

By Bethani Gerhard Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

The City of Rosemount has a new splash pad at Central Park, north of City Hall. The 3,700 square feet water play area opened in July of this year, complete with tall gushers for older kids and short fountains for the younger kids.

“Until the splash pad was built, Rosemount did not have any kind of aquatic facility,” says Tom Schuster, parks supervisor for Rosemount Parks and Recreation. “In 2012, the City Council decided that we should build the splash pad and planning began in early 2013.”

The splash pad is located where two hockey rinks used to sit. In order to accommodate the splash pad construction, both rinks were removed from Central Park and relocated elsewhere in Rosemount.

“The splash pad, which cost $821,000, is part of a larger effort to bring people together in the downtown area,” says Dan Schultz, Rosemount parks and recreation director. “The City has a longterm goal of making the area more of a central hub for activities.

Officials would like to see more things brought down to Central Park, making the area more of a destination location year-round.”

The splash pad has several capped faucets throughout the area, where the City can install overhead jets and other features. The sprayers are designed so they shut off automatically within four minutes, and a button must be pushed to make it start again.

“Estimates show the new water play area will use approximately 4 to 5 million gallons of water annually,” states Schultz.

“For the time being, the water will be routed into a nearby holding pond. In the future, officials hope to use runoff to water nearby sports fields. However, officials plan to spend a year monitoring water usage to see if that is a possibility.”

18 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Schuster adds they started with an RFQ, which they sent to four product line representatives in the fall of 2013. At the October 2013 meeting, the parks and recreation commission recommended the city work with CRS/Vortex to supply the splash pad equipment and help them with design specifications. Schuster states, “In November 2013, the City Council approved working with CRS/Vortex and we, our engineering and planning consultants at WSB, and CRS/ Vortex began working on the design and plans for the splash pad.”

The plans were completed and the construction of the splash pad was bid last winter, according to Schuster. The contract for the construction was awarded to Pember Companies. Inc. and work began just as soon as conditions allowed in the spring of 2014.

Around the perimeter of the splash pad, the City planted trees and shrubs, and along the hillside to the east, seeded native prairie.

“The splash pad is beautifully landscaped and provides for lots of seating for those who wish to enjoy the splash pad without getting wet,” says Schuster. “There is also a new 30’ x 30’ covered picnic table shelter and drinking fountain at the site.” Ideas for phase two include a natural playground nearby as well as a fire pit for teens.

“The city also will need to assess whether or not to add additional parking areas in the future,” states Schultz. “Hopefully on really busy days, people will be able to find parking in the downtown area.”

As a final thought, Schuster adds the splash pad and the area around it are a beautiful new City amenity. So far it has been very well received and much appreciated by its many users.

Fall 2014 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 19

City of New Ulm Installs New

Outdoor Fitness Equipment

By Cheryl Kormann, City of New Ulm

The City of New Ulm received a donation of $20,000 to purchase and install five new pieces of outdoor fitness equipment around its existing Miracle Recreation playground located in Harman Park, 101 North Garden Street in New Ulm. The five pieces of equipment were purchased from Flagship Recreation and include a chest/ back press, squat press, cardio stepper, ab crunch/leg lift, and balance steps. All pieces are a part of Landscape Structures’ HealthBeat® line of outdoor fitness equipment. This system brings the best of the gym to the great outdoors and is

St. Louis Park is just minutes from Downtown and Uptown Minneapolis!

St. Louis Park is the perfect location to host your special events, tournaments and races. We have unique spaces for any function - whether it be a sporting event, fundraiser, wedding, banquet, team building event, holiday or retirement party. If your event is being held nearby and you’re in need of a hotel room block, we can help with that, too. Our great hotels, hip restaurants and unique spaces will welcome you and your guests with open arms. Contact us for complimentary event assistance and a St. Louis Park event space guide.

Photo: lauren b. photography

20 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

www.discoverstlouispark.com info@discoverstlouispark.com (952) 426-4047

perfect for parks and playgrounds.

Participants completed the challenge by doing a final weigh-in at a HEALTHspot kiosk and complete a final survey.

This fantastic, new, outdoor equipment was placed inside the perimeter of the playground container that houses two large Miracle playgrounds and swing sets in an effort to give its users the opportunity to engage their children in play while getting a great workout for themselves by allowing them to move!

This outdoor fitness equipment will encourage and assist people in staying active for good heart health and support the efforts of everyone in our community who is striving for a healthy lifestyle.

This donation was made possible through the Heart of New Ulm Project’s LOSE IT TO WIN IT Community Health Challenge, which was funded by a grant from UnitedHealth Group, along with donations from the New Ulm Medical Center Foundation. Those who participated in the 18-month program were committed to their health by making healthful lifestyle choices and participating in healthrelated community activities to lose or maintain weight. Points were earned for a

multitude of activities. Participants learned how physical activity, healthful eating, stress management and sleep all play a role in weight management. Progress was tracked, either using the provided Logbook or were able to keep track online.

Participants were asked to weigh in at one of three Healthspot Kiosks each quarter.

Teams and individuals supported each other and shared weight loss success, struggles, motivators and tips with friends, family, neighbors and coworkers.

The Heart of New Ulm Project is an awardwinning, innovative 10-year initiative to significantly reduce heart attacks among residents in the community of New Ulm and is a collaborative partnership of the Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation, Allina Health’s New Ulm Medical Center and the City/Community of New Ulm. Since the project started five years ago, the community culture in New Ulm has transformed in significant ways to support healthier lifestyles, and the data show significant improvements in the health of community residents.

The City of New Ulm is proud to be a key partner in the project since its inception.

Fall 2014 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 21

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Wednesday, November 5, 2014 Bloomington Civic Plaza • 1800 West Old Shakopee Road Join us for the 2nd Annual MRPA Entertainment Jamboree, which will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, November 5 at the Bloomington Civic Plaza. This event was developed to bring together professionals who book entertainment for their programs and facilities with area entertainers.

This entertainment jamboree is designed to allow attendees an opportunity to “see them before you book them” for events throughout the year. The event will include a performance showcase of about 12 performers, entertainment exhibit hall, and a detailed entertainment guide.

The jamboree with include a variety of performers who will each perform a 20-minute session throughout the afternoon: musicians, bands, drum groups, children’s performers, and more.

The performers list is available to download from our website at mnrpa.org.

Entertainment Jamboree Registration Form Registration Deadline: October 29

Registration Fee:  $35 per person (includes lunch)

Attendee Information: Organization: Attendee Name(s):

Mail Registration Form and Payment To: MRPA 200 Charles Street NE Fridley, MN 55432 Or register online at mnrpa.org

Questions?

Address: City, State, Zip: Tel: Email:

Contact MRPA at snider@mnrpa.org or 763.571.1305 x100

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

This photo was taken in 1982. From left to right: Randee Nelson, unknown, John Keprios, Clifton E. French and Marty Jensen.

Clifton E. French retired in 1984. In 1989, he became Minnesota Recreation and Park Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s part-time director, and served in that capacity for five years. He has been a wonderful role model for many parks and recreation professionals in the state of Minnesota, and on the national level.