Minnesota Recreation & Parks - Fall 2023

MINNESOTA RECREATION & PARKS VOLUME 18 | ISSUE 4 • FALL 2023

2023

RECOGNIZING MINNESOTA AGENCIES AND ORGANIZATIONS FOR OUTSTANDING 2022 ACHIEVEMENTS

ALSO INSIDE: • 2023 Lifeguard Competition • Pop-Up Splash Pads • 2023 Conference in Review < • 2024 Commercial Buyer’s Guide

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UPCOMING EVENTS

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

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An affiliate of National Recreation and Park Association

Editorial Staff Michelle J. Snider Bethani Gerhard Editorial Board Scott Berggren, Crystal Jennifer Fink, New Brighton Lori Hokenson, New Brighton Mary Jo Knudson, Owatonna Cheryl Kormann, New Ulm Patrick Menton, Winona

MRPA Leadership hop Development Works December 2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS From the President................................. 4

Splash Pad Pop-Ups........................ 14-18

MRPA in Action....................................... 6

MRPA Conference 2023.................. 21-30

Keeping Up.............................................. 7

MRPA Awards of Excellence...........35-50

MRPF Corner........................................8-9

Commercial Buyer’s Guide............. 51-60

MRPA Lifeguard Competition........ 10-12

Advertiser Index.................................... 62

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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 todd@pernsteiner.com.

Visit www.mnrpa.org for more details and to register.

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Articles and Advertising Deadlines Winter 2024 issue.................... December 14, 2023 Spring 2024 Issue............................March 24, 2024 Summer 2024 issue............................ May 22, 2024 Fall 2024 issue........................ September 15, 2024

rence 2024 MRPA Annua l Confe 2024 27, 24September Mankato

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This magazine is the official quarterly publication of Minnesota Recreation and Park Association and is provided complimentary to members as part of their MRPA membership. The editorial board encourages the submission of articles and photos for publication by agency members.

Articles of approximately 500-700 words or less may be submitted, but may be edited for length and clarity. Contact Michelle Snider, MRPA, at 763.571.1305 x100 if interested in submitting an article for a future issue.

Academy Facility Ma nagement Januar y 2024 TBD Loc ations and Dates

MRPA Annual Meeting & Awa rds Luncheon January 12, 2024 Maple Grove

Advertising Sales & Design Todd Pernsteiner Pernsteiner Creative Group todd@pernsteiner.com 952.841.1111 MRPA Board of Directors 2023 President: Jerome Krieger, Blaine President-Elect: Michelle Okada, Woodbury Past President: Ross Demant, Wright County Secretary: Annie Olson, Minneapolis Treasurer: Sonya Rippe, Plymouth RSC Chair: Scott Heitkamp, Burnsville East Metro: Andrew Pimental, Eagan East Metro: Becky Sola, Shoreview East Metro: Dan Schultz, Rosemount Northeast Region: Amber Moon Peterson, Nisswa Northwest Region: Lynn Neumann, Hutchinson Southern Region: Joey Schugel, St. Peter West Metro: Mike Ramirez, Eagan West Metro: Jenna Smith, Bloomington West Metro: Jason T. West, St. Louis Park

Athletic Management Institute November 29, 2023 Bloomington Civic Plaza Bloomington, MN

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

By Jerome Krieger, MRPA President

WOW, What a Conference!

It was great to see everyone at the conference in Plymouth and if you weren’t able make it, you missed a good one. Almost 450 attendees may be a new record for the largest MRPA conference ever. We had many things to celebrate along with getting a chance to network and learn at the same time.

I want to thank all of you for accepting my challenge and meeting four new professionals within our organization.

I received compliments throughout the week on how we’ve become more of a tight-knit group. This is the Family theme we have been referring to all year and trying to continue to develop.

There were many great educational sessions, keynote speakers, off-site tours, networking events, the exhibit hall, food, and a maintenance rodeo. A huge

thank you to all our sponsors, partners, co-chairs Sonya Rippe and Katie Yandall, sub-committees, volunteers, MRPF and MRPA staff for making our conference one of the best in the country! A special thank you to the City of Plymouth, their city manager, their parks and recreation staff and their maintenance staff for being such a great host for the conference. You have an amazing facility and a top-notch staff to go with it!

This publication highlights MRPA Awards of Excellence, the MRPA Lifeguard Competition, and pop-up splash pads in Duluth and St. Cloud. It is awesome to see all the creative work we are performing in our state. As presenter Milton Hunt said in his closing speech, let’s be the Trailblazers in our industry and not the followers. Let’s take a chance to do things

differently and showcase our talents in Minnesota.

Finally, I want to introduce you to my last family member, Veyda.

She is our goldendoodle who will turn Veyda Krieger three at the end of October. She loves walks, running around the fenced in yard and being around others.

Keep up the fantastic work and please reach out to me if you need anything!

Thanks, Jerome

We believe all people should live in safe, sustainable, and beautiful communities.

Riverfront Renaissance Improvements, City of Hastings, Minnesota

4 MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | www.mnrpa.org

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MRPA IN ACTION

Meet Nicole Greenwell Nicole Greenwell’s love for the outdoors stemmed from growing up on a farm in Lanesboro, Minn. Interest in parks and recreation as a profession was rooted from her experience growing up, although this small community did not have many parks and recreation opportunities.

“I started my collegiate years obtaining a graphic design degree from Winona State University,” states Greenwell. “My first design job was working for a collegiate clothing company, followed by working for a printing company editing the weekly Target circular ads. In 2013, Target layoffs directly impacted my role and I was at a crossroads of staying in design or pursuing something different.”

Greenwell’s friend told her about the communications specialist position at Anoka County Parks. The job involved design, creation, and marketing so she

applied. “My optimism about this role was at an all-time high as the fit and description sounded like my dream job,” says Greenwell. “Creating communication materials which allow people to connect and understand the benefits of outdoors was priceless. I got the job and I have been so incredibly grateful for the past eight years.”

The communications specialist role was a part-time endeavor to start. “My amazing leader and mentor, Andy Soltvedt, understood the importance of communications and ultimately pushed for creating a new full-time position at the county,” adds Greenwell. “The new communications and outreach specialist position was created as a full-time opportunity which allowed me to continue to progress in my parks and recreation career.”

As Greenwell continued learning from leaders in parks and recreation through networking and MRPA’s Emerging Recreation Leaders Institutes, she found herself enjoying the field even more.

“In 2022, I accepted my current role as communications supervisor for Anoka County Parks,” adds Greenwell. “I started getting more involved in MRPA.

MRPA Retiree Luncheon

The MRPA retiree luncheon took place on September 12 at Springbrook Nature Center in Fridley with 12 retirees in attendance – ranging from recent to long-time retirees. Thank you to Fridley Parks and Recreation for hosting this annual event.

I was fortunate to join the 2020 annual conference committee. The pandemic in 2020 forced the MRPA conference to switch to a virtual conference. This was the first MRPA conference to be held in this manner.”

“After being on my first conference committee, I knew that I wanted to continue contributing to MRPA in other ways,” says Greenwell. “I applied to be on the MRPA awards committee and have enjoyed learning about all the amazing projects, programs, and partnerships happening throughout the state. In 2022, I was fortunate enough to be asked back as marketing chair for the annual conference committee.

Currently, she has been contributing to MRPA through the Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation on the Board of Trustees. “I’ve learned about the ways that the Foundation provides for education, scholarships, and grants to further parks and recreation in Minnesota,” says Greenwell. “One of the best part’s about being involved with MRPA is to be able to connect with the brilliant professionals from across the state who share a passion for parks and recreation.”

Emerging Recreation Leaders Institute (ERLI) The Emerging Recreation Leaders Institute (ERLI) kickedoff October 17 at St. Louis Park with 27 participants. This five-session professional development program will conclude at on November 15. The ERLI program is designed to provide information across a broad spectrum of the profession, while participants also build their professional network.

MRPA thanks Flagship Recreation, Landscape Structures, Inc., Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation, and ISG for sponsoring this program. Thank you also to Three Rivers Park District, Landscape Structures, Inc., and the cities of Elk River, Plymouth, and St. Louis Park, for hosting the program days.

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KEEPING UP

Jay Lotthammer Retires from Eden Prairie Parks and Recreation Jay Lotthammer recently retired after being the director for Eden Priaire Parks and Recreation for years. “My initial interest was ‘all about sports’ but after my freshman year in college, I was trying to determine what I wanted to be when I grew up,” says Lotthammer. “I kept remembering back to several of my coaches and physical education teachers who I looked up to and who made a positive impact on me. And since I had played sports all my life – why not be a part of them for the rest of my life. That’s what led me to pursue a degree in physical education with a coaching minor.”

Lotthammer further explains his interest in parks and recreation.

“When it was time to write my resume to pursue a position teaching physical education, it was glaring that my only teaching experience had been four-year-old Sunday School,” he says. “To enhance my resume, I applied to be a sports instructor and camp counselor with the City of Brooklyn Park. I couldn’t believe I was getting paid to teach and play games. Eventually, I was asked to coordinate and supervise programs while going to graduate school to learn more about sports management. I was incredibly

fortunate to be surrounded by some of the best professionals in our field. They gave me opportunities and trusted me to take on more responsibilities. I couldn’t have asked for better mentors, role models and lifelong friends.”

Lotthammer says his first supervisor, Jan Ficken, brought him to MRPA meetings and events, and before he knew it, he was chairing the professional development committee and speaking at conferences. “I also served two terms on the Board of Directors and had the honor of serving as MRPA President,” adds Lotthammer. “My experiences being involved with MRPA have been amazing and rewarding.”

He states, “Along the way, I learned a lot, but most importantly I met a lot of very talented and dedicated professionals. The care and compassion that MRPA members have for each other is amazing. I’ve always known I could make a call and talk to someone who had faced a similar challenge and would offer support and guidance. In addition to MRPA members, I’ve been fortunate to get to know the MRPA staff. Michelle, Bethani, and Deb are people who do everything they can to support the members and help promote parks and recreation. Looking back, I’ve been very fortunate to work at two supportive organizations (Brooklyn Park and Eden Prairie), layering on the MRPA has enhanced my career in ways I could have never imagined.”

MRPA On the Air Podcast at the NRPA Conference Congratulations to the MRPA On the Air Podcast hosts Bryce Shearen and Meredith Lawrence. They had a session at the National Recreation & Park Association’s conference in Dallas, Texas in October.

Check out the two new podcasts on the MRPA website. Hosts Bryce and Meredith talk with Chuck Stifter, parks and recreation director with the City of Maple Grove on the topic of capital improvement projects. MRPA is grateful to Bolton and Menk for their sponsorship of this episode.

The also talk with Radious Genius, with the City of St. Louis Park, and Annie Olson with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board on the subject race and equity. MRPA is grateful to Landscape Structures and Flagship Recreation for their sponsorship of all the MRPA On the Air podcasts.

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FOUNDATION CORNER

Thank you for your support!

By Jennifer Fink, MRPF President I hope this message finds you well and filled with the same enthusiasm and energy that permeated the atmosphere at our recent MRPA Annual Conference. The event was not just a gathering of professionals; it was a testament to the community spirit and shared commitment that defines our association.

Gratitude for Your Support First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the members who generously supported the Foundation during the conference. Your active participation in the Annual Heads and Tails Split the Pot game and the Craft Beer and Wine Pull made these events memorable.

(I love seeing how for the last two years a deal has been struck between the last folks standing to split the pot!) Shout out to our guest emcee Mr. West for making it exciting!

A special thanks to our sponsors – 3 Floyds Brewery, Indeed Brewing Company, Rodney Strong, Luce Line Brewing Company, Omni Brewing Company, Pathway Sales, 9 Mile Corner Vineyard and Winery, Nordic Brew Pub, Schell’s Beer, Lakes & Legend Brewing, Lookout Bar and Grill, and the Mankato Brewery. Additionally, I want to acknowledge the many members who donated additional items; your contributions did not go unnoticed.

Celebrating Our 50th Anniversary One of the highlights of the conference was seeing so many of you proudly donning the new MRPF 50th Anniversary gear. Your enthusiasm for our shared cause and your willingness to spread the word about the impactful work we do is truly inspiring. This

milestone is not just a celebration of the past but a stepping-stone toward an even brighter future for our Foundation.

Empowering Our Members with New Initiatives I enjoyed getting to witness the excitement of over 50 individuals eager to learn about our new initiative grants (It may have been the candy tossed at them…) during the Foundations New Initiative session. In case you missed it or are looking for more information, applications can be submitted online at www.mnrpf.org/grants. Remember, membership is a prerequisite for application, so if you haven’t already, please consider becoming a member today. Additionally, if you are interested in being a part of the evaluation process for fall grants you can reach out to Jessica Christensen Buck, (763400-7034 or jchristensenbuck@corcoranmn. gov) or, if you have innovative ideas, apply for our upcoming spring grants.

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MRPF New Initiative Grants Each session MRPF awards up to $4,000 to members’ organizations that are working to develop new and innovative programs. These grants spur innovation in the park and recreation field at the local, regional, and state level. In upcoming issues, we will highlight past grant recipients. Annual grant deadlines fall at the end of March and early November. Contact Lisa Abernathy at 952-924-2539 or labernathy@stlouispark.org, or visit https://mnrpf.org/grants for more information.

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In 2021 the City of Crystal developed an RC Car Track on the solid surface hockey rink at North Lions Park complete with obstacles, ramps and jumps. The space was designed as an enhanced experience for novice and hobby RC Car enthusiasts to meet, play and race. The City of Crystal provide cars for participants to use taking away any economic barriers to participation. The location of the RC car track is within walking distance to four apartment complexes and this amenity helps to reduce transportation barriers. Police officers have even stopped in at the track to get in on the action while doing outreach.

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Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to announce an exciting event on the horizon.

Be on the lookout for our late fall/early winter Top Golf Social/fundraiser for the Foundation. This promises to be an engaging and enjoyable occasion, bringing our community together for a great cause. Stay tuned for more details and save the date for this upcoming event.

In closing, I am continually inspired by the dedication and passion displayed by our members. Your support propels us forward and ensures the success of our initiatives. Let’s carry this momentum forward and continue to make a positive impact on our communities.

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A Battle for the Buoy

FIRST ANNUAL MRPA LIFEGUARD COMPETITION

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By Bethani Gerhard, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association The first MRPA Lifeguard Competition was held July 30, 2023 in Bloomington.

Six teams competed as they assessed aquatic-related scenarios and fun competitions.

Congratulations to the following teams: • First Place: Minnetonka Shady Oak

• Second Place, Apple Valley Redwood

• Third Place: Apple Valley Family Aquatic Center

“The MRPA Aquatics Network is excited about the opportunity to continue to grow the lifeguard competition,” states Kevin O’Brien, recreation superintendent for the City of Faribault and the chair of the MRPA Aquatics Network. “If you or your community is interested in participating, look for information come early June 2024.”

MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | Fall 2023 11

MRPA extends a thank you to Bloomington Parks and Recreation for hosting this event. Also, thank you to the following Aquatics Network members for planning this year’s event: • Kevin O’Brien, Faribault • Bridget Russell, Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul area • David Benson, Bloomington • Mikayla Beuch, St. Louis Park • Megan Mulligan, Minnetonka • Steve Skinner, Apple Valley

O’Brien indicated the MRPA Aquatics Network is always looking for help to implement these programs.

“If your aquatics staff is interested in getting involved, have them join our meetings the first Wednesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. Most meetings are via Zoom or have a Zoom option if they meet in-person.

Planning for this lifeguard competition begins after the New Year.”

Thank you to Megan Mulligan with the City of Minnetonka for taking photos of the MRPA Lifeguard Competition.

Competition planning committee, (left to right): David Benson, Kevin O’Brien, Steve Skinner, Bridget Russell, Mikayla Beuch, Megan Mulligan

12 MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | www.mnrpa.org

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POP-UP

SPLASH PADS

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DULUTH: FINDING CREATIVE WAYS TO COOL OFF IN A SHORT SUMMER SEASON

By Megan Lidd, Recreation Specialist - Community Events, City of Duluth Parks & Recreation In a city positioned on the shores of the second largest lake in the U.S. and the largest freshwater estuary in the world, with 42 streams feeding their way into each, water can feel abundant. However, unlike many Minnesota cities to our south, Duluth does not have a community pool for residents to cool off in on a hot summer day. Lake Superior’s refreshing water, though vast and beautiful, has its own barriers; the average summer temperature is 52 degrees, there is a possibility of dangerous rip currents on certain days, and limited physical access points along

the shores are all factors to consider before jumping in.

Because of rising temperatures, and a need for accessible and creative solutions to cool off, it is clear that splash pad infrastructure is becoming increasingly popular across the country. Park planning and construction of new amenities takes time and substantial investment, so the Duluth Parks and Recreation team opted to adapt and pilot something new and engaging to fill the splash pad gap in our community.

After discovering a variety of Splash Pad programs from other cities who had run similar events with their local fire departments, Duluth Parks and Recreation staff shared a collection of photos and pitched the idea to Mike Consie, assistant chief of the Duluth Fire Department (DFD), to explore the possibility of bringing a pop-up splash pad event to Duluth.

“We were excited when parks and recreation approached us and asked if we would be willing to assist them in setting up a water supply for their splash pad initiative. It is an

MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | Fall 2023 15

excellent community service to offer our residents, and we wanted to participate in it,” said Consie.

Together, parks and recreation and DFD worked through the logistics. DFD would bring the fire truck, adapters and splitters, and parks and recreation would bring garden hoses, sprinklers, and other splash-worthy equipment. Park maintenance staff ensured no parking signs were placed and that the spaces were prepped and ready for a large event.

The Recreation team promoted and organized the events, and then brought the space to life alongside the DFD. Duluth’s water access is just one of the city’s geographical challenges. In a city nearly 27 miles long, Parks and Recreation’s primary programming model is to be mobile in order to serve all neighborhoods across Duluth. In the inaugural year, the cross-department team planned three Pop-Up Splash Pads in various neighborhoods on the west side of the city along the St. Louis River estuary where the primary water recreation uses are fishing and boating. As the team set up for the first event in a parking lot of

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a neighborhood park, no one was sure what to expect. Before long, the space was flooded with people, laughter, and endless smiles. Youth and adults alike ran through sprinklers, doused others in a dunk bucket games, and splashed around with fun water toys.

“It was incredible to see the community immediately embrace and enjoy a new program so positively,” said Parks and Recreation manager, Jessica Peterson.

“It is rewarding for our staff to work collaboratively with our colleagues across departments. The willingness for various departments to share their time and resources to try something new was foundational to the program’s success,” Peterson acknowledged.

In the first year, the Pop-Up Splash Pad program included over 700 attendees.

This summer, the program served another 700 people at four events in neighborhoods city-wide, utilizing parking lots and streets adjacent to parks. Community-building was evident.

Neighbors greeted each other, cooled off in the sprinkler mist and enjoyed a novel activity in their neighborhood park.

ST. CLOUD: COOLING OFF AND BUILDING COMMUNITY

By Cassie Woischke, Recreation Programmer, City of St. Cloud Park and Recreation Summer in St. Cloud was a whole lot cooler this year, both literally and figuratively. Thanks to a partnership between the St. Cloud Park and Recreation Department, the St. Cloud Fire Department, and the St. Cloud Police Department, a new Pop-Up Splash Pad has become the talk of the town. This exciting collaboration not only provided a refreshing escape from the summer heat, but also a fun and interactive space for children and families to build and foster positive relationships with local first responders.

After hearing about the Pop-up Splash Pad program at the MRPA Annual Conference during a networking meeting, the St. Cloud

Park and Recreation Department reached out to the St. Cloud Fire Department and St. Cloud Police Department. Both departments saw the potential for a collaboration and seized the opportunity. This initial outreach not only paved the way for the successful Pop-Up Splash Pad partnership, but also opened doors for collaborations on other community events, such as a Bike Rodeo and Fall Fest.

It’s a testament to the power of networking and the willingness of different departments to work together for the betterment of their community.

Once the parks crew swept the Centennial Park parking lot to ensure it was clear of

MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | Fall 2023 17

debris, the St. Cloud Fire Department parked their Tower 1 apparatus equipped with an extendable bucket at Centennial Park. What truly made the event special was the interaction of a firefighter positioned in the bucket throughout the event. He adjusted the flow rate and direction of the water to create a playful and refreshing experience for the families playing in the water below.

The excitement was palpable as children giggled and cheered while trying to follow the falling water droplets. Families were able to meet real-life firefighters, ask questions, and even witness some firefighting equipment up close.

The St. Cloud Police Department also played a pivotal role in the event by bringing out a patrol car and allowing attendees the chance to sit in the passenger seat and chat with some friendly officers, even allowing children to sound the sirens. These moments served as a fantastic educational opportunity, along with the opportunity to break down barriers between the police and the community.

Local businesses and sponsors also stepped up to the plate and provided water, various fresh fruit, and granola bars to ensure attendees stayed hydrated and fueled in the heat. Their generosity not only enhanced the experience but also showcased the community’s commitment to supporting local initiatives.

The turnout at the Pop-Up Splash Pad exceeded all expectations.

Families from Central Minnesota flocked to the park for an afternoon of fun, and the community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive. Parents appreciated the opportunity for their children to have safe, water-filled fun, while kids were thrilled to meet and interact with real-life heroes in uniform and create lasting memories.

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18 MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | www.mnrpa.org

The success of the Pop-Up Splash Pad owes much to the support and guidance received from the parks and recreation departments from the cities of Eden Prairie and Victoria. These departments generously shared their experiences, insights, and lessons learned from similar initiatives. By leveraging this collective wisdom, St. Cloud was able to avoid common pitfalls and streamline the process of bringing our vision to life.

In every drop of water, in every shared smile, and in every moment of laughter, the Pop-Up Splash Pad exemplified the spirit of unity that defines the St. Cloud community. It was a shining example of how collaboration among different departments within a city can create something truly exceptional. As St. Cloud continues to invest in its community, fostering connections and building bridges between its resident and public service departments, we look forward to growing this event and available opportunities to our residents in the future.

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86 TH ANNUAL MRPA CONFERENCE IN REVIEW

MRPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2023 A HUGE SUCCESS! MRPA says thank you to all the delegates, volunteers, exhibitors and sponsors of the 86th Annual Conference and Exhibit Hall held September 26-29 at the Plymouth Community Center. The conference included nearly 450 delegates, more than 60 exhibit hall participants, and numerous sponsors and volunteers.

The 2023 MRPA conference was an exceptional event, highlighting the challenges and rewards of trailblazing in the field of parks and recreation.

With record-breaking attendance, the introduction of the Maintenance Rodeo, and valuable hands-on training opportunities,

Unless noted, all photos

by Nicole Greenwell, Anoka County Parks

it was a testament to the planning committee and subcommittees dedication to the work we do and the members we serve.

The conference offered diverse sessions to cater to a wide range of interests, featured passionate keynote speakers, and provided stunning venues for networking and socializing. Thank you to the collaborative efforts of the conference committee team and the Plymouth Community Center staff.

The event was not only welcoming but also highly inspiring, reinforcing the pride in being a part of MRPA!

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MRPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2023 2023 CONFERENCE COMMITTEE

2023 SPONSORS*

THANK YOU CONFERENCE SPONSORS FOR MAKING THIS EVENT POSSIBLE.

The Annual Conference would not be possible without the dedication and commitment of these individuals: Conference Co-Chairs Sonya Rippe Katie Yandell Programming Dakota Krings JJ Williams Mandy Whiteside Megan Mulligan Susan Johnson Maria Larson Carson Law Exhibit Hall Chris Fleck Kari Hemp Logistics Paul Pearson Mitchell Czech Alyssa Fram Aaron Thelen Marketing Kelly Distad Ali Mayer

*SPONSORS AS OF PRESS TIME.

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Sponsorships Amanda Clarke Nicole Gorman Networking Hannah Hawkins Jess Koch Sierra Hietala Nicole Schultz Volunteers Stephanie Schutta Jenna Smith Jessica Christensen Buck Matt Colwell Sam Gray Park Maintenance & Rodeo Ross Demant David Dowden Adam Farrell Brian Swartzer

MRPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2023

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Maintenance Rodeo photos: Plymouth Communications Department

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MRPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2023

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MRPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2023

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MRPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2023

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MRPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2023

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2022

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the World Around How Kids life to playgrounds gives new

Themed Playgrounds

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attract spaces that visitors Creating and both residents

PLAY

ALSO INSIDE: in Minnesota Ice Rinks

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2022

RECO ORGANIZATIOGNIZING MINNESOTA NS FOR OUTST AGENC ANDING 2021 IES AND ACHIEVEMEN TS ALSO INSIDE: • Dog Parks & Behind - Creative Uses the • 2022 Confere Scenes nce in Review • Grant Resourc • 2023 Comme e Guide < Buyer’s rcial Guide

Survey • Unique Education • Continuing Review in • MRPF Year

1 MINNESOTA

Recreation

and Parks

• www.mnrpa.o

www.mn www mnrpa rpa.org org

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2024 Advertising Deadlines Winter 2024 issue Ad deadline: January 5, 2024 Professional Awards; Climate Change / Going Green; Partnerships; Emergency Planning

Spring 2024 issue Ad deadline: March 24, 2024 Content: Playgrounds & Parks

Summer 2024 issue Ad deadline: June 15, 2024 Annual Conference 2024 program

Va lue-a dde a dve rtising d ma ga zine e ve nt pa cka a nd a va ila ble! ges a lso more det a il Inquire for s.

Fall 2024 issue View past magazine issues at:

Ad deadline: September 15, 2024

www.mnrpa.org/Publications

Awards of Excellence; Industry trends; Agency operations; Buyer’s Guide

RESERVE YOUR AD SPACE! Contact Todd Pernsteiner at todd@pernsteiner.com or (952) 841-1111.

VIEW THE 2024 ADVERTISING RATE CARD AT WWW.MNRPA.ORG/PUBLICATIONS MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | Fall 2023 29

MRPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2023

30 MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | www.mnrpa.org

SPACES + PLACES

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By Bethani Gerhard, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

2023

RECOGNIZING MINNESOTA AGENCIES AND ORGANIZATIONS FOR OUTSTANDING 2022 ACHIEVEMENTS

By Bethani Gerhard, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

Each year, MRPA recognizes agencies or organization in Minnesota for outstanding achievements.

Congratulations to the 28 recipients of the MRPA Awards of Excellence for projects completed in 2022.

SPONSORED BY HIWAY

Hiway Credit Union has been around for over 90 years, starting in November 1931 by employees from the Minnesota Department of Transportation. The credit union’s beginning was very modest, conducting business out of a cash box, while never losing sight of its purpose: to help members succeed financially.

Founded to serve the employees of the Minnesota Highway Department, thus Hiway Credit Union, Hiway has since grown the membership to include state agency employees, military servicemembers, small businesses, individuals and families throughout Minnesota. Today Hiway serves over 80,000 members.

In addition, the Credit Union supports the Minnesota Park and Recreation Foundation. Hiway’s association with the Foundation has led to a variety of mutually beneficial programs. Hiway has had the opportunity to be a presenting sponsor at the Minnesota Park and Recreation Annual Conference, giving Hiway exposure to many Park and Rec employees across the state of Minnesota. In addition, Hiway has been a part of Park and Rec’s scholarship program, financially supporting students who are seeking a degree in a Recreation, Parks, or Leisure Services program.

The MRPA and MRPF, along with Hiway Credit Union, are proud to work with you in support of the communities we both proudly serve.

MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | Fall 2023 35

2023

Administrative or Management Strategies Duluth - Essential Spaces: Duluth Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Plan The goal of the essential spaces plan was to develop a communityinformed plan to guide the future of Duluth’s parks, recreation, open space, and trails system to support a healthy and vibrant community, enhance inclusion and equity, and advance environmental protection under a sustainable budget framework. The Project Advisory Committee (PAC) established guiding principles to reflect the foundational values and vision for the plan process and the future of Duluth’s park system.

Throughout the process, the PAC meetings allowed for detailed and nuanced discussions related to community needs and priorities. Each plan theme, goal, and strategy was developed and evolved under our guiding principles.

Early on, focus group discussions highlighted a variety of perspectives, user group experiences, and priority areas for consideration. Regardless of the group’s topic area, maintenance, equity, and funding levels came up consistently. Focus group input laid the foundation for creating a shared community vision and for formulating community survey questions.

With 1,962 survey responses, input made clear that the plan must focus on addressing a backlog of maintenance projects and updating recreation amenities in poor condition, while also working to expand meaningful connections between people and natural spaces.

Community input drove the creation of the plan.

Marketing and Communications Anoka County Parks – Brand Style Guide The Anoka County Parks brand style guide was developed as part of a larger effort to establish a strong and recognizable identity for the Parks system. It has had a significant impact on the Parks’ success. Since the branding initiative began five years ago, the Parks system has seen a growth of more than one million new annual visitors.

One of the most innovative aspects of the brand style guide was the approach to marketing ideas. By focusing on the unique attributes of each park and highlighting them in marketing efforts, Anoka County Park was able to create a more personalized experience for visitors and connect with them on a deeper level. This approach helped to set the Parks system apart from other outdoor recreation options in the area and encouraged visitors to choose Anoka County Parks for their next outing.

By focusing on the unique attributes of each park and highlighting them in marketing efforts, Anoka County Park was able to create a more personalized experience for visitors and connect with them on a deeper level.

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Overall, the Anoka County Parks brand style guide has been an essential component in the success of the Parks system.

It has also provided a clear and consistent brand identity, encouraged innovation in marketing efforts, and helped to establish Anoka County Parks as a top outdoor recreation destination in the region.

2023

Park and Facilities Eagan – Rahn Park Improvements

The five-year Eagan Parks & Recreation Master Plan identified future improvement needs at Rahn Park. The City has continued to proactively budget and identify this park for redevelopment efforts. Reinvestment projects aim at correcting both deferred maintenance and aid in keeping our parks up to date and flexible for organized and passive recreation use.

This project took a creative approach to a multidiscipline phased strategy towards park redevelopment. Project prioritization and improvement strategies focused on outdoor court and site improvements during a pandemic to support recreation play and outdoor connection. A relatively restrictive site pushed the design to team to repurpose winter spaces/amenities such as the two hockey rinks to support summer parking and summer basketball, while remaining flexible in design so not to lose their winter rink purpose. Outdoor lights kept people playing into the evenings and fall season – receiving many compliments and appreciation for extended play opportunities.

The second phase of construction focused reshaping the existing park building to truly serve the community more than a warming house. An expanded shelter and patio area was added, and the interior of the building was completed gutted and remodeled to support year-round programming efforts. The MN DNR Trail Grant allowed use to not only support trail connectivity and greater park access but also remove 90+ inflected EAB trees and provided the needed space to replant to new trees.

Elk River – Orono Park Improvements

Orono Park is a family-friendly 28-acre park located on the west shore of Lake Orono. In 2017, a revamped park master plan included a list of park features to make this signature park complete. In 2018, the Elk River City Council called for a citywide vote by referendum for a local option sales tax for park, recreation, and community improvements and it passed. In 2019, the state legislature approved the city’s local option sales tax (LOST) for $35 million in recreation improvement projects, which included Orono Park.

The initial timeline was to have project bids in spring 2020, review design plans summer 2020, start construction 2021 and complete late 2021. Due to supply chain shortages the project rolled into summer 2022 for the bulk of the final construction. This project included new features as well as existing amenity upgrades.

Amenities such as the swimming beach, sand volleyball courts, pickleball courts, restroom/pavilion building, kayak rentals, splash pad and skate park are utilized during the summer months. Yearround opportunities for recreation include access to the lake for ice fishing and snowmobiles via the boat launch, playground, picnic shelters and multi-use trails.

The park improvements included connections to an ADA accessible restroom facility, splash pad, improved trail system, and ADA access to the beach. Overall, the reconstructed and reconfigured access roads, parking lots, and trails accommodate all varying forms of users driving, walking, and biking to the park. With such an array of unique amenities, Orono Park has become a regional destination that everyone can enjoy.

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2023

Park and Facilities Elk River – Rivers Edge Commons Dock Installation Installing a dock in downtown Elk River had been discussed and considered a number of times since Rivers Edge Park was built in 2007. In 2019, the City Council directed staff to research dock details and present them to the Parks and Recreation Commission. The Parks and Recreation Commission recommended the dock installation. The city council concurred, directing staff and the boating enthusiasts to solicit donations to fund the project.

Local businessperson, Chris Carlson, stepped up with the Carlson Lightshield Foundation to donate half of the money for the project, inspired by his father who was an avid angler. With this donation the dock received the push that it needed to inspire the City Council to move forward and complete the project.

An EZ Dock system was employed because a floating dock is critical for a river application due to water level fluctuation. This ADA accessible dock system ensures the free-board height is consistent in high or low water levels making for a safer and more enjoyable experience. It requires minimal maintenance and has a non-skid slip resistance surface. A final dock concept was recommended and approved by the City Council in September of 2020. Marine Dock and Lift provided the installation of the dock and will maintain seasonal removal and installation. They supplied all the materials and installation labor for the floating dock, aluminum stairway, ADA walkway ramp, and ADA walkway landing components.

As soon as the dock was installed on July 13, 2022, boaters and kayakers were mooring and coming downtown to visit local businesses and the park.

Youth and their parents were also observed fishing in the Mississippi River from the 110-foot-long dock. The installation of an ADA accessible dock at River’s Edge Commons Park on the banks of the Mississippi River has added an entirely new dimension to downtown Elk River.

Hugo – Lions Volunteer Park and the Peder Pedersen Pavilion

Lions Volunteer Park is an active community park in downtown Hugo. It has an inclusive playground, expanded skate park, sport courts and ample parking. The centerpiece is a new park pavilion with an indoor-outdoor feel supporting large community events as well as provide a rentable community room for private parties.

The City of Hugo strives to be a leader in water resource management. Lions Volunteer Park features an irrigation system that utilizes stormwater reuse. Stormwater is pumped from a retention pond into an irrigation system shared with the park, city hall grounds, and the new Jack Pine Place apartments.

The inclusive playground is a destination meeting the needs and desires of multiple age groups, abilities and challenge levels.

To create a safe and enchanting play area, it features ornamental fencing, two gateway entrances, and a perimeter tot path.

A substantial amount of landscaping and seating options is scattered throughout the play area.

A challenge course for ages 12-plus was constructed with the rest of the playground. A mixture of rubber surfacing and artificial turf was used to enhance accessibility. The pavilion was envisioned to be strategically aligned opposite of City Hall and includes an indoor gathering room, meeting rooms, a serving kitchen, and support spaces such as restrooms. Residents are able to rent the community gathering room and meeting rooms. Restrooms are accessible on the exterior of the building to all park users.

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2023

Park and Facilities Plymouth – Plymouth Community Center Renovation and Expansion

Originally built in 1999, the Plymouth Creek Center served the community for two decades as a vital hub of recreational, social and educational activity. After 20 years of operation and approximately 300,000 annual visitors, the aging, well-used Creek Center found itself increasingly challenged to meet the space-use needs of its diverse and active user groups, as well as the amenity and activity demands of the growing community.

Beginning with a feasibility study in 2017, the City of Plymouth explored options to renovate and expand the existing facility. The study, combined with extensive community engagement initiatives in 2018, helped shape what is now the Plymouth Community Center (PCC). The goals and objectives of the PCC project were to create a group of activity spaces and amenities that would meet the community’s needs, which varied widely due to diversity of ages, interests and socio-economic backgrounds.

The PCC was renovated and expanded throughout a two-year project that wrapped

up in July 2022 and added approximately 80,000 square feet of space. The new building features a year-round indoor walking track, indoor playground, two gymnasiums, dance and fitness studios, art gallery and more. It offers programs and activities for all ages and is a popular site for weddings, receptions, banquets and meetings.

Building system efficiency and environmental sustainability were strategic goals from the early planning stages. The project meets both B3 State of Minnesota Sustainable Building Guidelines and the Sustainable Building 2030 (SB2030) energy standard. It includes daylighting, photovoltaics (solar panels) for onsite renewable energy, native plantings, highly efficient mechanical and electrical systems, and an increase in building envelope performance.

The PCC offers several unique technological advances, including a system that allows patrons to access the K.U.B.E. indoor

playground and gymnasium with a barcode purchased through a self-serve kiosk – a feature that received a 2021 MRPA Award of Excellence. In addition, the gymnasium features a unique interactive educational audiovisual environment called the LÜ.

Since fully opening in July 2022, the PCC has garnered strong positive feedback from residents and visitors, as well as high usage numbers. Additionally, the facility has hosted a number of statewide conferences and popular citywide events, and welcomed more than 375,000 visitors through the first nine months of 2023.

Richfield – Augsburg Adventure Park Inclusive Playground

The City of Richfield worked with the community to design and create an inclusive playground that would be a sensory-rich environment for people of all abilities and ages to foster high-quality play experiences.

Objectives included elements of inclusive community engagement, creative design, collaborative partnership, and lasting sustainability practices that utilize the existing natural environment as much as possible.

The Universally Inclusive Playground at Augsburg Park is approximately 13,600 square feet. It was designed with cutting edge inclusive play features that are safe, colorful, and modern in aesthetic. Every aspect of the playground has been studied and enhanced to ensure that it is accessible to as many people as possible. The playground exceeds ADA playground and park guidelines, so people of any ability can play and fully participate. Special considerations such as building an accessible zip line, swings, ramps, spinners, sound play devices, learning panels with braille and nature themes, and roller slides into the design have been done.

There is a special play fort for children specifically with autism to explore in a quieter space that will calm their senses and at the same time offer

engaging play features such as learning panels and fidget boards.

The playground is sensory certified from Fraser Schools. The design of the playground also takes advantage of the natural shade from the surrounding Burr Oak Trees. Any space that does receive a fair amount of exposed sun has shade panels incorporated overhead so children don’t get overheated while playing. The color and overall design of the play feature is engaging for all people to explore.

MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | Fall 2023 39

2023

Park and Facilities Shoreview – Shoreview Commons Community Gathering Space Project

Since the initial construction of the Shoreview Community Center in 1990, the city leadership worked to create a vision of developing the Shoreview Commons into a true community gathering venue.

The outcome of this extensive work is a project that created a wide array of new recreational amenities including a decorative pond, friendship garden, concrete skate park, open space, and destination playground.

The decorative pond feature was installed adjacent to an existing pavilion which is used to host rentals, recreation programs such as the summer concert series, and serves as a warming house for winter outdoor ice skating. A fountain tops off the pond that illuminates a variety of vivid colors at night. In the winter, the pond is utilized as an open skating rink.

The friendship garden is a group of bronze statues modeled after children playing in a circle located next to the decorative pond. The statues represent a variety of cultures showing how play can bring people together in peace. The garden was funded by the Shoreview Community Foundation, a non-profit that supports projects that benefit the community. Sponsorship bricks inlaid around the statues were sold to aid in funding the garden.

The skate park is composed of concrete in order to provide the best possible skating surface for users. The park was manufactured by Spohn Ranch Skate Parks who is well known for interactive and exciting designs for all age groups. Rounding out the project is the destination playground. The playground was designed by Flagship Recreation and offers five unique areas for all ages to enjoy.

Washington County – Central Greenway Regional Trail

The Central Greenway Regional Trail is a planned 25-mile trail that connects the southern part of Washington County to the northern part of Washington County, connecting Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park to Lake Elmo Park Reserve to Big Marine Park Reserve.

While this project mainly focused on construction of new trails and parking lots, it also allowed for the opportunity to replace an aging antenna used by the sheriff’s office. The new antenna utilized technology and was reduced from a 30-foot tower to a three-foot antenna that was installed onto an existing building.

Overall, the scope of this project included the reconstruction of trails within Lake Elmo Park Reserve, along the regional trail system, to meet regional trail standards (10-ft wide) and current ADA standards. The scope of this project also added accessible parking for staff and park users, rerouted segments of the trail to ensure safer experiences for all park users and constructed a new parking lot for non-motorized boat users with an accessible trail to a future ADA accessible canoe/kayak launch.

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2023

Park and Facilities Wright County – Bertram Chain of Lakes Regional Park and Campground

The Chain of Lakes is a unique and attractive park that people from all over the state can enjoy. With an emphasis on preserving the natural beauty of the land, specific activities showcase the natural features.

Hardwoods were planted on the north side of the park, creating a barrier between the campground and the future athletic complex that the City of Monticello is planning within the park boundary, while also creating more shade and bringing back the native trees to the area.

Accessibility to Bertram amenities was a large part of the project.

Access to the beach requires walking one quarter of a mile on a natural surface trail from the main parking lot on the north side. One of the trails is established with gravel for ADA access, in addition to the paved surface that was completed. The original parking space on the south side of the park had to be expanded due to increased usage and traffic with the opening of the mountain bike trails. The south parking lot has been established as the trail head for single-track trails. Sand that was excavated on site was used to create the base for this parking area which provided better drainage due to its makeup, with an added benefit of cost savings in the construction and in the future with sustainability of the surface.

The original trail system on the property was a scramble trail from when YMCA managed the property. All the trails were evaluated and have been brought up to sustainable standards. This includes the singletrack mountain bike and the double track hiking trails. Along with trail expansion and redesign, there is upgraded signage throughout the park.

Programming and Events Bemidji – Let’s Go Skating Program

The Community Let’s Go Skating Program is unique in the approach and the broad-based collaboration both internally and externally. The overarching goal of reaching a diverse population both in socioeconomics and culture was achieved through this program. The participants ranged in age, ethnicity and skill level. The interactions on and off the ice were ones of cooperation between ages, skills and backgrounds. The Let’s Go Skating program introduced the community to a life-long activity free of charge through the provision of equipment, tools, a facility, and a positive open atmosphere.

The overarching goal of reaching a diverse population both in socioeconomics and culture was achieved through this program.

The Let’s Go Skating Program was supported by funding through a grant by the Bernick’s Foundation, in-kind/staffing by the Bemidji Parks and Recreation Department, and ice time by the Bemidji Community Arena. The partnership established and re-enforced with Red Lake Schools, home school groups, and other local neighborhood initiative groups. The focus was teaching a skill and providing an opportunity to skate and introduce people to recreation programs, the Bemidji Community Arena, and the formation of relationships. In January of 2023, ice skates were made available for rent at the warming house. In one month, over 224 skates were rented and the impact has been tremendous.

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2023

Programming and Events Edina – Art Together

Art Together was developed as a tool to bring the Edina community together and use art as a gateway for conversation between youth and public safety professionals. The goal was, and continues to be, to promote connection and understanding of public safety in Edina, in a fun and safe environment. Art Together was produced as a low barrier program at no cost to participants and had no registration requirements.

Art Together was offered in a traditionally underserved community, existing near a popular park and pavilion in Edina.

The program targeted children and their families from the adjoining neighborhoods near the Fred Richards playground.

City staff utilized social media, the City of Edina website and email blasts to encourage participation. Posters and signs were posted in the neighborhood as promotional tools. The program was developed in early 2022 and was successfully executed during the summer months of June, July and August 2022.

This project gave staff the opportunity to build rapport with young citizens and teach them that our city staff members in uniform are

people who they can trust. The art projects chosen for Art Together promoted small motor development and allowed participants to bring something tangible home to remind them of their time “getting to know” law enforcement officers and fire personnel.

Little Canada – Inclusive Farmers Market The City of Little Canada’s Farmers Market (LCFM) introduced SNAP/EBT, and the Power of Produce Club (POP Club) beginning summer of 2022. The main goal was to introduce more kids to the LCFM. While this was not a new concept, it was a need of the community to provide a more inclusive and equitable market for all.

Additional goals included encouraging kids to make healthy food choices and teach them about spending money. They achieved this with the POP Club by getting kids excited each week to get their free two-dollar token. According to POP participants around the US, 88% of parents surveyed from the POP Program stated that their child was more likely to try new foods and enjoy them. It’s very easy to spend two dollars on food at McDonald’s, but these kids got to interact with farmers and learn more about the products they grow, which is extremely invaluable.

According to POP participants around the US, 88% of parents surveyed from the POP Program stated that their child was more likely to try new foods and enjoy them.

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The City of Little Canada also wanted to make the market more equitable at the same time. SNAP/EBT gave community members access to an extra $20 for free each week ($1,338 spent during the season), which they would not have had if they would’ve shopped at surrounding grocery stores.

2023

Programming and Events

Maple Grove – Crokicurl Rink The goal of creating Crokicurl and bringing the activity to Maple Grove was to offer a new, free winter activity to the community. Crokicurl is a hybrid of the board game Crokinole and Curling. This game was first introduced into the parks systems in Canada. The Maple Grove Crokicurl rink is the first and currently the only rink in the state of Minnesota. Staff chose Central Park of Maple Grove as the rink location.

With the refrigerated ice loop located at Central Park, the park is a high traffic area in the winter months. The newly added amenity paired well with the other winter activities at the park. Crokicurl is free to the

public and all equipment is provided onsite. Having the rink at Central Park allows park attendees the ability to stop and play anytime. Staff hosted free clinics and highlighted Crokicurl at the annual Wonders of Winter event at Central Park in February, Staff were on hand to teach the attendees how to play the game of Crokicurl. By offering some education and showing park users how fun and easy the game is to play, they are able to come back and enjoy another time. The rink is open all winter season during normal park hours, weather dependent.

Plymouth – Santa Visits the Sensory Room

Santa Visits the Sensory Room, a new and no-fee event created in 2022, was geared towards children with sensory needs who might not be able to attend a traditional event at a mall or other venue due to their sensory sensitivities.

Families were able to register for one-on-one time with Santa, as well as visit therapy dogs, put together a holiday-themed craft, watch Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch, interact with different sensory bins, visit The Autism Society of MN resource table, and have a delicious treat provided by Nothing Bundt Cakes- Minnetonka. The event showcased partnerships with three organizations including the Autism Society of Minnesota, North Star Therapy Animals, and Nothing Bundt Cakes- Minnetonka.

MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | Fall 2023 43

2023

Programming and Events Shakopee – Women’s Water Safety

The idea for this program came about from a community member and active aquatics participant in the fall of 2021. Together they worked with a local intermediate school to develop a swim lesson/water safety program for women who cannot participate in the lessons offered at the community center. The primary focus originally was Muslim women and immigrant women who could not participate due to the presence of males in the facility. The cost to participate was also a barrier. Learning how to swim hasn’t always been a high importance when they were children.

The goal of women’s water safety was to teach water safety to women not able to participate in swim lessons. Some barriers that participants have faced include cultural, socioeconomic, religious, and physical barriers. This program aims to remove these barriers to access and offers women an opportunity learn to swim in a female only environment at low cost to them. The main goal and objective was for women to leave the program feeling more comfortable and confident in the water.

Over the fall of 2021, Shakopee Parks and Recreation developed a plan for this program and met with women to see what their interest were, and needed to ensure this program was accessible to them.

The first season was in January 2022 and the second was offered in the summer of 2022. The third session in January 2023 had 17 women signed up on the first night.

St. Louis Park – ShamROC Ice Bowling

ShamROC Ice Bowling was created to take advantage of a time of year when outdoor activities are in that lull between winter and spring. It takes advantage of the end of the outdoor ice season at the ROC (Recreation Outdoor Center). Participants bowl four frames on regulation size lanes, with regulation bowling pins and balls on ice. Teams of four people compete. Each frame has a sponsor, if the participant gets a strike in that frame, they win a prize from that sponsor. Prizes are awarded to individuals and teams who score the highest. This event brings out everyone who is looking to acknowledge the end of a long winter and celebrate the start of the spring season.

Staff utilized the technology of the outdoor refrigerated ice rink to take advantage of being able to extend outdoor ice during a time of year when most (if not all) outdoor rinks have melted and are nonexistent. Due to the technology at the ROC, this event would not be able to happen at any other outdoor rink at this time in Minnesota.

Other technology that the staff utilized was creating a Facebook Event page that promoted ShamROC Ice Bowling through social media platforms. Staff utilized geofencing to market to a certain demographic which contained a specific age and residing in a set location. Staff also created multiple website domain names that would drive on-line traffic directly to the ShamROC page on the city’s website.

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This event brings out everyone who is looking to acknowledge the end of a long winter and celebrate the start of the spring season.

2023

Programming and Events St. Louis Park – St. Louis Park Juneteenth Celebration

The City of St. Louis Park (SLP) held its first Juneteenth Celebration in 2022. The goal and mission of the SLP Juneteenth Celebration was to celebrate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and to be authentic and educate the public in a fun and purposeful way. This event was to also celebrate the Black culture through song, entertainment and showcasing Black business owners.

It was decided in early March of 2022 to start organizing the first Juneteenth Celebration in the City of St. Louis Park. The Parks and Recreation Department immediately partnered with the School District/ Community Education, Parktacular (city festival) and The Black Market.

The St. Louis Park parks and recreation staff held regular meetings with the SLP School District/Community Education, Parktacular (city festival) and The Black Market. Staff knew that they had only thirteen weeks to organize this authentic, educational, and fun event. The parks and recreation staff immediately worked with the city’s communications department to start creating the logo for the event, social media posts, flyers, banners, posters, etc.

St. Louis Park – Westwood Hills Nature Center – GRIT Freedom All-terrain Wheelchair

The primary goal of this program was to expand the accessibility of Westwood Hills Nature Center’s (WHNC) trails and facilities during all seasons and weather conditions for users of varying mobility.

Additionally, WHNC sought students of all abilities to experience the full impacts of programming by providing them with the opportunity to fully participate and explore off-trail on naturalistled hikes. A final objective of this project was to address health inequities among persons with physical disabilities.

WHNC aims to provide the opportunity for people with all levels of mobility to experience both the physical and mental health benefits of being outdoors, and reduce barriers to outdoor recreation by making the park inclusive to all levels of physical abilities. The technology used to achieve these goals includes the GRIT Freedom Spartan all-terrain wheelchair designed to navigate rugged terrain.

This manual, all-terrain chair has a unique chain drive system that allows visitors to operate independently or assisted by a caregiver with built-in handlebars. This specialized mode of transportation opens up users to fully experience the 160-acre park during all seasons. For instance, the wheelchair can navigate users up the steep climb into the pine forest, a common space where owls nest in the winter. Those with limited mobility can now traverse the loop around Westwood Lake, which includes a floating boardwalk. All these opportunities are opened up to a wider audience, due to the unique nature of this all-terrain wheelchair.

WHNC aims to provide the opportunity for people with all levels of mobility to experience both the physical and mental health benefits of being outdoors, and reduce barriers to outdoor recreation by making the park inclusive to all levels of physical abilities.

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2023

Programming and Events St. Louis Park – Westwood Hills Nature Center – Social Media Styled Shoot

St. Louis Park Parks and Recreation Department organized a unique and innovative program called “Styled Content Day” to help couples connect with different vendors to piece together their wedding plans. Westwood Hills Nature Center is a perfect place to host a wedding, so parks and recreation partnered with a small business, Midwest Gowns, a local dress rental company to create their own Styled Content Day (SCD) that would be focused on nature and environmentally friendly spaces. Staff used social media to market facilities and catch the eye of potential new customers.

The objective consisted of partners setting up six stations/scenes with models, different Midwest Gown attire, flat lays, candid moments, ceremony backdrops and tablescapes. The group then secured vendors to volunteer goods/ services in exchange for the photos of the participating photographer’s as well as crediting businesses through social media. Both volunteer vendors and photographers agreed to share and credit all participating businesses (primarily through Instagram) in use of photos that were taken to maximize marketing of all participating businesses.

The event hosted 14 photographers that were placed randomly into smalls groups which rotated through the six scenes. They were allowed 30 minutes at each station to give the photographer ample time to capture several photographs to use in their promotions.

Three Rivers Park District – Fishing Mentor Program

The vision of Three Rivers Park District’s 2040 System Plan is for every person to connect with nature every day, and the first goal of the plan is “you belong here.” In 2022, staff from Three Rivers’ Outdoor Recreation School developed and implemented a program that aimed to nurture a feeling of belonging in nature for a group of young people from demographic groups typically underrepresented in the park system.

The goal of Three Rivers’ Fishing Mentor Program was to pair a cohort of approximately 12 middle- and high-school students with a group of adult mentors recruited from Three Rivers Park District’s volunteers.

The cohort met six times in late summer and early fall of 2022. The program was free to attend for participants, and each mentee received a fishing rod, tackle box and related equipment. Participants learned about selecting fishing locations, choosing the right lures and bait, removing the hook once the fish is caught, and cleaning the catch so it can be cooked. Staff taught about fishing regulations, including fishing responsibly so fish populations are sustainable for generations to come.

Participants were taught several fishing techniques, including a lesson on fly fishing. At the final session, mentees fished, cleaned their catches, and enjoyed a fish fry dinner with their families and mentors. By engaging with youth over several sessions and offering in-depth mentoring from adults interested in fishing, the hope is that the Fishing Mentor Program will provide participants with the skills to spark a life-long interest in fishing and more importantly, to help participants know they are welcome in nature throughout their lives.

46 MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | www.mnrpa.org

2023

Programming and Events Washington County – Free Outdoor Family Time

The Washington County Parks Division hosted an equity event called Free Outdoor Family Time at Lake Elmo Park Reserve in September 2022.

The event’s goal was to introduce new people to the parks who come from historically underrepresented populations in park use. Objectives identified to meet this goal included utilizing available grant funding for transportation, removing financial barriers for use of parks, providing a variety of activities to introduce new users to what parks have to offer, and creating an opportunity for residents to better understand available county services.

The event coincided with the start of the new school year as a way to provide an outlet for new school nerves and highlight how use of parks does not need to be a solely summer activity. Free Outdoor Family Time consisted of free transportation to and from the park, a variety of sampler activities, free school supplies, and information about County services provided by several departments. The outdoor recreation activities were family-friendly and run at introductory levels to be as welcoming as possible. Families were able to enjoy casting with a fishing rod, football, disc golf, hiking on an accessible trail, soccer, volleyball, and creative play building with foam blocks. Free school supplies were also provided for event guests. Multiple County departments and a local fire department attended the event to provide resources and activities for families. Overall, the County’s hope was for everyone to feel welcome to the county parks and have a great time with their families, friends, colleagues, and community.

Sponsorships and Partnerships Eagan – Goat Hill Park – Outdoor Refrigerated Rink

Eagan’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan and 2016 Parks System Master Plan identified future consideration towards investment into a refrigerated ice system at a designated winter recreation facility to improve reliability of ice conditions to support outdoor winter recreation.

The primary goal was to increase outdoor ice skating opportunities in Eagan.

The supportive objectives of the outdoor refrigerated rink at Goat Hill Park were as follows: execute a successful private/public partnership project; establish a Memo of Understanding (MOU) outlining the donation and intended community use; incorporate sustainability initiatives into the project; deliver supportive and educational material to nearby neighbors; conduct a community engagement event; communicate new amenity to the public; create volunteer opportunities; and evaluate public use for continued investment into equipment and facility.

There are currently ten parks programmed with ice skating facilities at various locations throughout the city. With the unreliability of ice conditions during the winter season, adding refrigerated ice at a designated winter recreation facility along with a tubing hill with snow making capabilities, would ensure consistent recreation opportunities during the winter.

MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | Fall 2023 47

2023

Sponsorships and Partnerships Hutchinson – Fireman’s Park Community Playground Project

The Fireman’s Park Community Playground Project was a collaboration between the City of Hutchinson Parks, Recreation and Community Education department and the local fire department. Fireman’s Park is located in downtown Hutchinson along the South Fork Crow River and is easily accessible along the Luce Line State Trail.

The park allowed for green space in the downtown corridor to be accessible to all. Before this project came to fruition, none of the downtown parks included a playground modular system. The local fire department was extremely supportive of this park and have always planned to help fund on-going improvements to the park. In addition to the newly themed playground that was installed in the park, other improvements were also funded through the fundraising efforts of the fire department.

For the project, the only usage of technology was the marketing for the project and the solicitation of donations via online platforms. Online marketing platforms were used to gain support for the community project and funds were raised to support the playground improvements. The overall goal and objective for the project was to provide a destination playground and park within the downtown corridor that was easily accessible to all residents and visitors of Hutchinson.

Roseville – Healing Garden at Central Park

In the spring of 2022, Ramsey County Master Gardeners partnered with the City of Roseville to launch its first healing garden project at the Muriel Sahlin Arboretum at Central Park. The name of the garden is Nature Heals.

Healing gardens offer a restorative place to connect with nature, offering sensory focal points for meditation and reflection. Often times found in healthcare settings to improve health, these gardens promote a sense of well-being and hopefulness.

The Ramsey County Master Gardeners and the City of Roseville worked together to bring the first healing garden to Roseville parks, to offer a space for reflection, and opportunity for residents and visitors. The gardens were designed by Ramsey County Master Gardeners and the City of Roseville maintains the gardens. The City of Roseville supplied supply signage, and promoted the gardens at the Discover Your Park event on August 10, 2022.

A main objective for the project was to educate the community about the important connection between exposure to natural spaces, mood and mental health. The project was made possible due to the efforts of all partners involved. The Ramsey County Master Gardeners are made up of volunteers, supported by the University of Minnesota Extension and the Ramsey County Department of Environmental Health. The Master Gardener Volunteers provided the research, sign design, QR codes, and website support for the gardens. The city contributed staff time for project development, signage, and access to the existing gardens at the arboretum. Because the Muriel Sahlin Arboretum was an already established park with themed gardens, the cost to integrate the healing garden into the park was minimal.

48 MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | www.mnrpa.org

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2023

Sponsorships and Partnerships Three Rivers Park District – Creating a Healing Space in Nature Three Rivers operates and maintains the parks and trails, but historically hasn’t taken an active role in promoting the parks as places for emotional healing. A partnership between Three Rivers Park District and a nonprofit organization, Innovative SOULutions, began in 2022 to offer opportunities for community members directly affected by gun violence to gather as a group in nature and to facilitate the process of healing from trauma in a welcoming outdoor setting. Technology wasn’t an integral part of the experience for participants; on the contrary, the program emphasized disconnecting from technology while participating in the events in order to develop connections with those present and more fully engage with the natural environment.

Throughout 2022, Three Rivers and Innovative SOULutions held monthly events in the parks. Events included snow tubing at Elm Creek Park Reserve, a private cross-country ski event for the group, a maple syruping event at Eastman Nature Center, a rafting trip on the Mississippi River at Mississippi Gateway Regional Park, and a two-night cabin camping trip at the Baker Outdoor Learning Center. Participants ranged in age from one to 60-plus. On average, approximately 30 people attended each event. Some of the participants have limited mobility because of lasting effects from gunshot wounds, which meant Three Rivers staff were thinking about accessibility and needed adaptive equipment for each engagement.

Archery and biking have both become popular activities that were repeated throughout the year because the adaptive equipment available made it fun and accessible for all. For each monthly event, Three Rivers staff provided the equipment, recreation instruction, and gathering spaces in the parks, while Innovative SOULutions recruited families to attend and facilitates healing activities (such as healing circles) at the events.

Washington County – Bench Donation Program

In 2022, staff discovered its bench donation program was in need of a major overhaul.

The original program was not user-friendly as there was no formal process in place, and it was not cost-effective. The parks website included minimal information on the program and no standardized process was in place. Donors needed to e-mail for information. When a donor suggested a location for a park bench, they were often rejected or asked to pick a different location as it wasn’t accessible due to power lines, wells, or other maintenance related concerns. To make the process easier, the website was updated with bench design photos, pricing, placement options, and an online request form was created.

An interactive online story map was created using ArcGIS, a Geographic Information System (GIS). The new online story map offered photos of the donated benches and stories written by the donors about their loved ones. Donors chose a pre-approved location or propose a new location on the map. The form was submitted for review.

Recreation Dynamics, the point-of-sale system, was also updated with the new pricing structure so that staff could easily enter payments, send receipts, and generate financial reports. This process eliminates the additional time needed to communicate details.

The original bench design, location, installation costs, and pricing structure were also reviewed. Bench options were limited and when reviewing the costs of installation, it was shown that the original pricing structure did not match costs. The program now includes a two-tier bench donation system. The first tier includes a $2,500 cedar bench alongside turf trails with a five-year maintenance plan. The second tier offers a $3,500 steel bench for paved trails, an accessible concrete slab, and a 10-year maintenance plan. Both options cover the cost of materials and staff-time for installation.

50 MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | www.mnrpa.org

MINNESOTA MINNESOTA RECREATION & PARKS RECREATION & PARK ASSOCIATION

3 2 20 4 L 2 A I C 0 L R E A 2 I M C M R O E CC O M M SGGUUIDI DE E ’ S ’ R R E E Y Y U U B B

MRPA Corporate Members - Alphabetical A Anderson Race Management Mary Anderson mary@andersonraces.com 4047 Camberwell Drive North Eagan, MN 55123 andersonraces.com ATE Recreation Grant Kangas grant@aterecreation.com 11500 Wayzata Blvd #1039 Minnetonka, MN 55305 aterecreation.com

B B32 Engineering Group Scott Ward scott.ward@b32eng.com 2211 Oneil Road Hudson, WI 54016 b32eng.com Bituminous Roadways Inc. Heidi Sedlacek heidis@bitroads.com 1520 Commerce Dr. Mendota Heights, MN 55120 bitroads.com Bolton & Menk, Inc. Anne Gode anne.gode@bolton-menk.com 1960 Premier Drive Mankato, MN 56001 bolton-menk.com

C Colorade State University Jamie Dahl jamie.dahl@colostate.edu 1480 Campus Delivery Fort Collins, CO 80523 Commercial Recreation Specialists, Inc. Terese Welch crsmarketing@crs4rec.com 807 Liberty Drive, Suite 101 Verona, WI 53593 crs4rec.com

Confluence Terry Minarik tminarik@thinkconfluence.com 530 N. Third Street Suite 120 Minneapolis, MN 55401 thinkconfluence.com Creative Resources Agency Bridget Resig bridget@acreativeresource.com 1208 5th Street South Hopkins, MN 55343 acreativeresource.com Custom Bridges and Boardwalks Joe Krebs custom@inwave.com 606 Delco Dr Clinton, WI 53525 inwave.com Custom Builders Inc. Jeffrey Reiter jeffrey.reiter@custombuildersmn.com 12383 - 234th St. Cold Spring, MN 56320 custombuildersmn.com

D Damon Farber Landscape Architects Tom Whitlock twhitlock@damonfarber.com 310 4th Ave South, Suite 7050 Minneapolis, MN 55415 damonfarber.com

F FinnlySport Jesse Parker jesse.parker@finnlysport.com 14990 53rd Ave N Plymouth, MN 55446 finnlysport.com Fireflies Play Environment Inc. Camille Calderaro camille@lunningwende.com 275 E. 4th St. #620 St. Paul, MN 55101 firefliesplay.com

52 MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | www.mnrpa.org

Flagship Recreation LLC Kelly Simich kelly@flagshipplay.com 11123 Upper 33rd Street North Lake Elmo, MN 55042 flagshipplay.com

H H+U Construction Nikki Rugh nrugh@hu-construction.com 5555 West 78th St., Suite A Minneapolis, MN 55439 hu-construction.com HGA Architects and Engineers Nancy Blankfard, AIA nblankfard@hga.com 420 North 5th Street, Suite 100 Minneapolis, MN 55401 hga.com Hiway Credit Union Mark Hodowanic mhodowanic@hiway.org 840 Westminster St. St. Paul, MN 55130 hiway.org Hoisington Koegler Group Inc. Eric Blodgett eric@hkgi.com 800 Washington Ave N Suite 103 Minneapolis, MN 55401 hkgi.com Horizon Commercial Pool Supply Jason Gillet jason.gillet@horizonpoolsupply.com 4444 Round Lake Road West Arden Hills, MN 55112 horizonpoolsupply.com

I ISG Amanda Prosser amanda.prosser@isginc.com 6465 Wayazata Blvd. Suite 970 St. Louis Park, MN 55426 isginc.com

MRPA Corporate Members - Alphabetical J JLG Architects Tom Betti tbetti@jlgarchitects.com 710 S. 2nd St., 8th Floor Minneapolis, MN 55401 jlgarchitects.com Johnson Commercial Fitness Drew Wurst drew.wurst@johnsonfit.com 7585 Equitable Drive Eden Prairie, MN 55344 johnsonfit.com

K Kompan John Engfer joheng@kompan.com 605 West Howard Lane, Suite 101 Austin, TX 78753 kompan.com Kraus-Anderson Eric Quam eric.quam@krausanderson.com 501 South 8th Street Minneapolis, MN 55404 krausanderson.com

L Landscape Structures Megan Andrada meganandrada@playlsi.com 601 7th Street South Delano, MN 55328 playlsi.com LHB, Inc. Lydia Major lydia.major@lhbcorp.com 701 Washington Avenue North, Suite 200 Minneapolis, MN 55401 lhbcorp.com

M

P

Midwest Playscapes, Inc. Andrew Pudwill andrew@midwestplayscapes.com 8632 Eagle Creek Circle Savage, MN 55378 midwestplayscapes.com

Plaisted Companies Brian Thunberg bthunberg@plaistedcompanies.com 11555 205th Ave NW Elk River, MN 55330 plaistedcompanies.com

MINNCOR Industries Jessica Berg jessica.berg@minncor.com 2420 Long Lake Rd Roseville, MN 55113 minncor.com

Premier Polysteel Tim Solum tim@premierpolysteel.com 305 Enterprize Dr. Northwood, IA 50459 premierpolysteel.com

Minnesota Wisconsin Playground Inc Harlan Lehman harlan@mnwiplay.com PO Box 27328 Golden Valley, MN 55427 mnwiplay.com Musco Sports - Lighting Scott Peitz scott.pietz@musco.com 100 1st Ave West Oskaloosa, IA 52577 musco.com MyRec.com Colleen Kinkade info@MyRec.com PO Box 16997 Salt Lake City, UT 84116 MyRec.com

N Nystrom Publishing Company Gerry Nystrom gerry@nystrompublishing.com 9100 Cottonwood Lane Maple Grove, MN 55369 nystrompublishing.com

O Oertel Architects, LTD. Andrew Cooper bdever@oertelarchitects.com 1795 St. Clair Ave Saint Paul, MN 55105 oertelarchitects.com

R RJ Thomas Manufacturing / Pilot Rock Justin Jorgensen jjorgensen@rjthomas.com PO Box 946 Cherokee, IA 51012-0946 rjthomas.com Rock Hard Landscape Supply Kim Gaida-Wagner kgaida@rockhardmn.com 3600 Hwy 13 West Burnsville, MN 55337 rockhardmn.com RJM Construction Brad Barickman brad.barickman@rjmconstruction.com 830 Boone Avenue North Golden Valley, MN 55427 rjmconstruction.com Romtec, Inc. Hannah Duncan hduncan@romtec.com 18240 N Bank Road Roseburg, OR 97470 romtec.com

S SafetyFirst Specialty Contracting, Inc. Marrissa Bauer marissa.bauer@safetyfirstplayground.com 31095 Baugh Street NW Princeton, MN 55371 safetyfirstplayground.com MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | Fall 2023 53

MRPA Corporate Members - Alphabetical Sports Lighting Authority Harlan Gallop hgallop@sportslightingauthority.com 11900 Wayzata Blvd Suite 216G Minnetonka, MN 55305 sportslightingauthority.com SRF Consulting Group Inc Ken Grieshaber kgrieshaber@srfconsulting.com 3701 Wayzata Boulevard, Suite 100 Minneapolis, MN 55416-3791 srfconsulting.com Stantec Todd Wichman todd.wichman@stantec.com 2335 West Hwy 36 St. Paul, MN 55113 stantec.com St. Croix Recreation Chris Johnsen cj@stcroixrec.com 1826 Tower Drive West Stillwater, MN 55082 stcroixrec.com

Synthetic Turf Solutions of MN Mark Prince mark@synthetic-turf-mn.com 7546 Kimberly Lane Eden Prairie, MN 55346 synthetic-turf-mn.com

T Think Digital Signs Matthew Duffy matt.duffy@thinkdigitalsigns.com 7760 France Avenue S, Suite 1100 Edina, MN 55435 thinkdigitalsigns.com TKDA William Armstrong william.armstrong@tkda.com 1500 Piper Jaffray Plaza-444 Cedar St. Saint Paul, MN 55101 tkda.com

U USTA Northern Pat Colbert pat.colbert@usta.northern.com 2685 Vikings Circle Suite #100 Eagan, MN 55121 usta.northern.com

W Webber Recreational Design Jay Webber customerservice@webberrec.com 1442 Brooke Ct. Hastings, MN 55033 webberrec.com WSB Candace Amberg candace@wsbeng.com 701 Xenia Ave South Suite 300 Minneapolis, MN 55416 wsbeng.com

Corporate members listed are as of time of print. All corporate members were contacted about their company information

by Pernsteiner Creative Group for publication. Thank you for your support of MRPA!

THANK YOU 2023 NORTH STAR PARTNERS

Visit mnrpa.org to learn about the many North Star benefits!

54 MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | www.mnrpa.org

MRPA Corporate Members - By Category Aquatic Products....................... 53 Architecture / Engineering..... 53 Asphalt Paving........................... 53 Bridges / Docks / Boardwalks.................................54 Construction Management...............................54 Dog Park Products....................54 Financial / Banking...................54 Fitness Products........................54 Graphic Design..........................54 Group Recreation......................54 Landscape Supplies..................54 Lighting..................................54-55 Online Publishing...................... 55 Playground & Park Furnishings........................ 55 Printing & Mailing...................... 55 Promotional Products.............. 55 Signage........................................ 55 Soccer Technology................... 56 Sport Courts............................... 56 Tennis............................................ 56

AQUATIC PRODUCTS Horizon Commercial Pool Supply Jason Gillet jason.gillet@horizonpoolsupply.com 4444 Round Lake Road West Arden Hills, MN 55112 horizonpoolsupply.com

ARCHITECTURE / ENGINEERING B32 Engineering Group Scott Ward scott.ward@b32eng.com 2211 Oneil Road Hudson, WI 54016 b32eng.com

Damon Farber Landscape Architects Tom Whitlock twhitlock@damonfarber.com 310 4th Ave South, Suite 7050 Minneapolis, MN 55415 damonfarber.com HGA Architects and Engineers Nancy Blankfard, AIA nblankfard@hga.com 420 North 5th Street, Suite 100 Minneapolis, MN 55401 hga.com Hoisington Koegler Group Inc. Eric Blodgett eric@hkgi.com 800 Washington Ave N Suite 103 Minneapolis, MN 55401 hkgi.com

Bolton & Menk, Inc. Anne Gode anne.gode@bolton-menk.com 1960 Premier Drive Mankato, MN 56001 bolton-menk.com Confluence Terry Minarik tminarik@thinkconfluence.com 530 N. Third Street Suite 120 Minneapolis, MN 55401 thinkconfluence.com

ISG Amanda Prosser amanda.prosser@isginc.com 6465 Wayazata Blvd. Suite 970 St. Louis Park, MN 55426 isginc.com LHB, Inc. Lydia Major lydia.major@lhbcorp.com 701 Washington Avenue North, Suite 200 Minneapolis, MN 55401 lhbcorp.com

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DREAM. DESIGN. DELIVER. MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | Fall 2023 55

MRPA Corporate Members - By Category Oertel Architects, LTD. Andrew Cooper bdever@oertelarchitects.com 1795 St. Clair Ave Saint Paul, MN 55105 oertelarchitects.com SRF Consulting Group Inc Ken Grieshaber kgrieshaber@srfconsulting.com 3701 Wayzata Boulevard, Suite 100 Minneapolis, MN 55416-3791 srfconsulting.com Stantec Todd Wichman todd.wichman@stantec.com 2335 West Hwy 36 St. Paul, MN 55113 stantec.com TKDA William Armstrong william.armstrong@tkda.com 1500 Piper Jaffray Plaza-444 Cedar St. Saint Paul, MN 55101 tkda.com WSB Candace Amberg candace@wsbeng.com 701 Xenia Ave South Suite 300 Minneapolis, MN 55416 wsbeng.com

ASPHALT PAVING Bituminous Roadways Inc. Heidi Sedlacek heidis@bitroads.com 1520 Commerce Dr. Mendota Heights, MN 55120 bitroads.com

BRANDED MERCHANDISE Creative Resources Agency Bridget Resig bridget@acreativeresource.com 1208 5th Street South Hopkins, MN 55343 acreativeresource.com

BRIDGES & BOARDWALKS Custom Bridges and Boardwalks Joe Krebs custom@inwave.com 606 Delco Dr Clinton, WI 53525 inwave.com

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT Custom Builders Inc. Jeffrey Reiter jeffrey.reiter@custombuildersmn.com 12383 - 234th St. Cold Spring, MN 56320 custombuildersmn.com H+U Construction

Kraus-Anderson Eric Quam eric.quam@krausanderson.com 501 South 8th Street Minneapolis, MN 55404 krausanderson.com RJM Construction Brad Barickman brad.barickman@rjmconstruction.com 830 Boone Avenue North Golden Valley, MN 55427 rjmconstruction.com

CREDIT UNION Hiway Credit Union Mark Hodowanic mhodowanic@hiway.org 840 Westminster St. St. Paul, MN 55130 hiway.org

FITNESS PRODUCTS Johnson Commercial Fitness Drew Wurst drew.wurst@johnsonfit.com 7585 Equitable Drive Eden Prairie, MN 55344 johnsonfit.com Andy Hoffmann 5555 West 78th St., Suite A Minneapolis, MN 55439 nrugh@hu-construction.com 612.438.0258 ahoffmann@hu-construction.com www.hu-construction.com H+U Construction has been navigating complex construction projects for our clients since 1983 – from concept through completion, and beyond. H+U provides clients with a unique blend of real-world and technical expertise, having built or improved some of Minnesota’s most impressive, award-winning parks and recreation facilities.

56 MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | www.mnrpa.org

GRADUATE PROGRAMS Colorade State University Jamie Dahl jamie.dahl@colostate.edu 1480 Campus Delivery Fort Collins, CO 80523

LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES Rock Hard Landscape Supply Kim Gaida-Wagner kgaida@rockhardmn.com 3600 Hwy 13 West Burnsville, MN 55337 rockhardmn.com

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MRPA Corporate Members - By Category LIGHTING Musco Sports - Lighting Scott Peitz scott.pietz@musco.com 100 1st Ave West Oskaloosa, IA 52577 musco.com Sports Lighting Authority Harlan Gallop hgallop@sportslightingauthority.com 11900 Wayzata Blvd Suite 216G Minnetonka, MN 55305 sportslightingauthority.com

MANUFACTURED GOODS MINNCOR Industries Jessica Berg jessica.berg@minncor.com 2420 Long Lake Rd Roseville, MN 55113 minncor.com

PLAYGROUND & PARK FURNISHINGS

Flagship Recreation LLC Kelly Simich kelly@flagshipplay.com 11123 Upper 33rd Street North Lake Elmo, MN 55042 flagshipplay.com Kompan John Engfer joheng@kompan.com 605 West Howard Lane, Suite 101 Austin, TX 78753 kompan.com Landscape Structures Megan Andrada meganandrada@playlsi.com 601 7th Street South Delano, MN 55328 playlsi.com Midwest Playscapes, Inc. Andrew Pudwill andrew@midwestplayscapes.com 8632 Eagle Creek Circle Savage, MN 55378 midwestplayscapes.com

ATE Recreation Grant Kangas grant@aterecreation.com 11500 Wayzata Blvd #1039 Minnetonka, MN 55305 aterecreation.com

Minnesota Wisconsin Playground Inc Harlan Lehman harlan@mnwiplay.com PO Box 27328 Golden Valley, MN 55427 mnwiplay.com

Commercial Recreation Specialists Terese Welch crsmarketing@crs4rec.com 807 Liberty Drive, Suite 101 Verona, WI 53593 crs4rec.com

St. Croix Recreation Chris Johnsen cj@stcroixrec.com 1826 Tower Drive West Stillwater, MN 55082 stcroixrec.com

Fireflies Play Environment Inc. Camille Calderaro camille@lunningwende.com 275 E. 4th St. #620 St. Paul, MN 55101 firefliesplay.com

Webber Recreational Design Jay Webber customerservice@webberrec.com 1442 Brooke Ct. Hastings, MN 55033 webberrec.com

58 MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | www.mnrpa.org

PLAYGROUND MAINTENANCE SafetyFirst Specialty Contracting, Inc. Marrissa Bauer marissa.bauer@ safetyfirstplayground.com 31095 Baugh Street NW Princeton, MN 55371 safetyfirstplayground.com

PRINTING Nystrom Publishing Company Gerry Nystrom gerry@nystrompublishing.com 9100 Cottonwood Lane Maple Grove, MN 55369 nystrompublishing.com

RACE MANAGEMENT Anderson Race Management Mary Anderson mary@andersonraces.com 4047 Camberwell Drive North Eagan, MN 55123 andersonraces.com

RESTROOMS / SHELTERS Romtec, Inc. Hannah Duncan hduncan@romtec.com 18240 N Bank Road Roseburg, OR 97470 romtec.com

SIGNAGE Think Digital Signs Matthew Duffy matt.duffy@thinkdigitalsigns.com 7760 France Avenue S, Suite 1100 Edina, MN 55435 thinkdigitalsigns.com

www.plaistedcompanies.com Alliance Field

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MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | Fall 2023 59

MRPA Corporate Members - By Category SITE FURNISHINGS

SOFTWARE

TENNIS

Premier Polysteel Tim Solum tim@premierpolysteel.com 305 Enterprize Dr. Northwood, IA 50459 premierpolysteel.com

FinnlySport Jesse Parker jesse.parker@finnlysport.com 14990 53rd Ave N Plymouth, MN 55446 finnlysport.com

USTA Northern Pat Colbert pat.colbert@usta.northern.com 2685 Vikings Circle Suite #100 Eagan, MN 55121 usta.northern.com

RJ Thomas Manufacturing / Pilot Rock Justin Jorgensen jjorgensen@rjthomas.com PO Box 946 Cherokee, IA 51012-0946 rjthomas.com

MyRec.com Colleen Kinkade info@MyRec.com PO Box 16997 Salt Lake City, UT 84116 MyRec.com

SOIL & SAND Plaisted Companies Brian Thunberg bthunberg@plaistedcompanies.com 11555 205th Ave NW Elk River, MN 55330 plaistedcompanies.com

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60 MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | www.mnrpa.org

TURF Synthetic Turf Solutions of MN Mark Prince mark@synthetic-turf-mn.com 7546 Kimberly Lane Eden Prairie, MN 55346 synthetic-turf-mn.com

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Tim Solum, Territory Sales Rep. Ph: 507-301-1655 TF: 877-746-3826 tim@premierpolysteel.com www.premierpolysteel.com

MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | Fall 2023 61

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Bolton & Menk................................................ 4 Commercial Recreation Specialists.............19 Fireflies Play Environments.......................... 49 Greenfields Outdoor Fitness........................ 7 Gyms for Dogs............................................. 8-9 ISG.................................................................. 30 John Deere.....................................................13 Johnson Commercial Fitness...................... 55 JLG Architects................................................. 5

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ADVERTISER INDEX

Landscape Structures................................. BC LHB................................................................. 60 Minnesota Wisconsin Playground.............. 59 Northland Recreation....................................61 Pernsteiner Creative Group......................... 62 Pilot Rock....................................................... 20 Plaisted Companies...................................... 59 Premier Polysteel...........................................61 RJM Construction......................................... 20

Safety First Playground Surfacing.............IFC Sport Court North................................... 32-33 Stantec............................................................18 St. Croix Recreation...................................... 57 TKDA.............................................................. 29 Webber Recreation Design, Inc.................. 34 WSB.................................................................61 Ziegler CAT.................................................. IBC

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62 MINNESOTA Recreation & Parks | www.mnrpa.org

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The Polaris Pro XD is now available for retail.

Contact your nearest Ziegler branch for more information today.

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

PLAY CONNECTS US.

Connections. Our lives are built around them. At Landscape Structures®, we see it every day. Everywhere. This is the beauty of play. An extraordinary opportunity for interaction and imagination. Coordination and cooperation.

Freedom and fun. Play lets us connect to who we are and see our wonder amplified in the connections we make. That’s why, in everything we do, we celebrate the beauty of play.

To learn more visit us at playlsi.com/shapedbyplay

#playconnectsus

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