MRPA Magazine - Summer 2019

MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks Volume 14, Issue 3 • Summer 2019

FROM FARM

(TO MARKET) Edible Playgrounds

TO TABLE

Benefits of a Community Garden

+ Guidelines for Starting One

Monticello Community Garden Celebrates 10 Years A Minnesota Tradition

Earle Brown Heritage Center

2019 MRPA ANNUAL CONFERENCE GUIDE INSIDE!

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MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks

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

Editorial Staff Michelle J. Snider Bethani Gerhard Editorial Board Jennifer Fink, New Brighton Lori Hokenson, New Brighton Lucie Patrick, Maple Grove John Stutzman, Golden Valley Advertising Sales & Design Pernsteiner Creative Group, pernsteiner.com MRPA Board of Directors 2019 President: Tom Schmitz, New Ulm President-Elect: Chris Esser, South St. Paul Past President: Boe Carlson, Three Rivers Park District Secretary: Sara McKay, Waseca Treasurer: Dale McCamish, Rochester RSC Chair: Jerome Krieger, Blaine East Metro: Barry Bernstein, Apple Valley East Metro: Andy Soltvedt, Anoka County East Metro: Reed Smidt, Woodbury Northeast Region: Ross Demant, Otsego Northwest Region: Marcia Larson, Bemidji Southern Region: Paul Peanasky, Faribault West Metro: Kelly Mertes, Brooklyn Park West Metro: Sonya Rippe, Plymouth West Metro: Nate Rosa, St. Louis Park This magazine is the official quarterly publication of Minnesota Recreation and Park Association and is provided complimentary to members as part of their MRPA membership. The editorial board encourages the submission of articles and photos for publication.

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

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

Deadlines for Articles and Advertising Fall 2019 issue.................................August 1, 2019 Winter 2020 issue...................November 15, 2019 Spring 2020 Issue.......................... March 15, 2020 Summer 2020 issue..........................May 15 , 2020 MRPA reserves the right to approve all submitted advertising in MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks magazine. All requests for advertising should be made to Todd Pernsteiner, Account Manager, at 952.841.1111 or info@pernsteiner.com.

On the cover: Richfield Farmers’ Market Photo by: City of Richfield

MRPA Events Calendar ve D ay s aple Gro ent M 9 1 0 2 am ll Tourn Pickleba July 11 nd K nolls a L akeview rk a P l a entr North C ys rove Da Maple G ll lleyba Sand Vo ent m a Tourn July 14 rove Maple G ter nit y Cen Commu

Minnes ota Tw ins Par & Re c r ks eation D ay s July 17 , Au g u s t 7 and Target 21 Field, Minnea polis MRPA / MN -U SSSA State S of tball Tourna ment s T h ro u g hou t Ju ly a n d Au gu s t

Slice o f Shore view Sa n d V olleyba ll Tourna ment July 28 Island L ake Cou nt y Park

s Sa n d u r y D ay Woodb a ment rn u all To Volleyb 24 Au g u s t Park y a Ojibw

out h ll in Plym nt Pickleba me a rn ll Tou Pickleba 4 Au g u s t Plymouth

Richfie ld Rend e z vo u s Pickleb all Tourna ment Au g u s t 25 Washin gton Pa rk

ual MRPA Ann and ce n re fe n Co l al E xhibit H 5 -8 November Heritage n w ro B Earle r klyn Cente o Center, Bro

ree and MRPA Reti cheon Friend Lun mber Mid-Septe k Nature o ro b g n Spri ley Center, Frid

VISIT MNRPA.ORG TO STAY UP-TO-DATE WITH MRPA EVENTS.

TABLE OF CONTENTS From the Board President.........................4 Foundation Corner....................................6 MRPA in Action..........................................8 Meet Lake Johnson...................................8 Keeping Up..........................................10-11 MRPA Flashback....................................... 10

Minnesota Farmers’ Markets.............13-20 Edible Playgrounds............................ 26-27 Benefits of a Community Garden.... 28-32 2019 MRPA Conference Guide....33-45 A Minnesota Tradition.............................46 2019 MRPA Corporate Members........... 47

Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 3

FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT

By Tom Schmitz, MRPA President

Hello members, associates and friends: 2. The Earle Brown Heritage Center is steeped in history and is truly a unique complex.

Summer is in full bloom! We are very fortunate to have four seasons. I can’t imagine living and working in an area that doesn’t experience four, significant seasonal changes. Also, it seems that near the end of each season we are all eager for the next season to arrive. One challenge in our summer season is the insects. Although they are an integral part of our ecosystem, they are not always enjoyable.

3. In keeping with our conference theme, enjoy the articles about farmers’ markets across Minnesota, community gardens and the edible playground in Eden Prairie.

Down here in the banana belt of the Minnesota southwest at New Ulm, we have had plenty of moisture this year. Rivers and fields are still dealing with high water levels. I hope our farmers and water recreationalists end up having a good year.

Once again, our Association magazine has excellent articles related to our profession.

1. Our annual conference – Don’t forget to put this on your calendar and get registered. This year, we’ll be at the Earle Brown Heritage Center in Brooklyn Center from November 5 - 8. Thanks a bazillion to this year’s conference chairs, Jessie Koch, Kelly Mertes, and Paul Pearson, as well as all the committee members! Our theme is “locally grown” and there will be a multitude of guaranteed excellent educational sessions, off-site institutes, exhibit hall and networking opportunities.

Finally, make darn certain you and yours get a summer vacation in. R&R (recreation and relaxation) are key components to a happy and healthy life. My wife Kim and our older son Dylan (wearing the necklace), will be heading to the North Shore to visit our younger son Kelton (tallest of the family), who’s utilizing his MNSU, Mankato – RPLS degree again this summer as an activity and sea kayaking guide for historic Lutsen Resort on Lake Superior. This photo is from last summer.

Reach More Than 775 Park & Rec Professionals in MINNESOTA magazine!

Who should advertise?

Businesses who have products and services to sell directly to city, county and state park and recreation members. MRPA members oversee parks, playgrounds, facilities and special events. Our members also coordinate fitness and youth enrichment classes, as well as plan youth and adult trips.

Fall Issue: MRPA Awards of Excellence Space/art deadline: August 1, 2019

MINNESOTA

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For details, contact Todd Pernsteiner at 952-841-1111, info@pernsteiner.com

Download the 2019 Advertising Rate Card: www.bit.ly/MRPA2019

4 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

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FOUNDATION UPDATE

By John W. Stutzman, CPRP, MRPF President

Summer is finally here and before everyone’s schedules get too crazy, I would like to remind everyone how much pride MRPF takes in serving our membership. As the only non-profit organization solely dedicated to the parks and recreation profession, we support our membership through sponsorship of professional development and networking opportunities, inspiration of innovation by offering grant and scholarship programs, and through the continued support of MRPA. While there are questions about what the future may hold, the MRPF Board of Trustees and I are excited about our organization’s direction, initiatives, and upcoming membership opportunities and programs. If there are areas of the profession you value and would like to see MRPF become more involved, offer new opportunities, or ways to better serve our membership, please contact me at jstutzman@goldenvalleymn.gov. We hope you have a safe and wonderful summer!

DID YOU KNOW… The Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation…

• Awarded Alex McKinney from Washington County Parks, a $2,000 grant to attend the 2019 Athletic Business Conference in Orlando, as part of our National Professional Development Grant program?

Congratulations Alex and thank you to our program sponsor, Webber Recreational Design.

• Is developing a new website? Our new site will feature simple navigation, pictures of Foundation activities, and more effective ways to communicate with our members. Look for the launch of the new site this fall.

• Awarded three New Initiative Grants to these member agencies this spring? o Minnesota State University, Mankato’s transgenerational gardening program o City of Duluth’s mobile nature programs

Apply today for the New Initiative Grants to be awarded this fall. Applications are currently being accepted now through November 1. Contact Lisa Abernathy at labernathy@stlouispark.org for more information.

• Encourages the engagement of past, present, and future Foundation members? We are thrilled to offer various networking opportunities throughout the year. Further event details will be available soon. o September 12, 2019: Annual Golf Tournament and Networking Event at the Historic Theodore Wirth Golf Course, featuring golf, activities, mingling with parks and recreation colleagues, and prize giveaways. Sponsored by St. Croix Recreation and the Minnesota Wild. o September 2019: Networking event at the NRPA Conference in Baltimore. Featuring food and mingling with parks and recreation colleagues from across the Midwest.

• Is once again a proud financial supporter of the 2019 MRPA Annual Conference, as a sponsor of the student luncheon? Additionally, the MRPF silent auction fundraiser at the exhibit hall will showcase sports and golf packages, family activities, themed baskets and more. Donations for auction items are currently being solicited. If you or your organization is able to donate items, please contact Mike Ramirez at mramirez@bloomingtonmn.gov.

• Membership is only $25 (retirees $20, students $10)? Members are eligible for benefits such as financial assistance, Foundation swag, event discounts, and MRPF drawings. Additionally, as a MRPF member you are eligible to become a member of Hiway Federal Credit Union.

To become an MRPF member with a tax deductible donation, contact Nicole at ngorman@edinamn.gov.

o Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board’s music tech equipment for Whitter Recreation Center Congratulations to all of you!

6 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

MRPF Student Scholarship Recipient: Where are They Now? Charles Steiner: 2014 Recipient Following his childhood passion for sports and the outdoors, Chuck found the parks and recreation field sooner rather than later, as a program leader for Falcon Heights and St. Louis Park. While attending Minnesota State University, Mankato, he continued his journey by graduating with a degree in recreation, parks, and leisure services.

To complete his education requirements, Chuck headed south to pursue an internship on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina as an outdoor recreation kayak naturalist. It was during this time he connected with the Special Olympics and donated his time and talents to develop South Carolina’s first kayaking team.

It was with great pride he watched his participants grow into strong kayakers and become Olympic gold medalists!

While it was the water that attracted him to South Carolina, Chuck soon heard the call of the mountains. This led him to an opportunity with the Asheville Parks and Recreation in North Carolina where he held a position as youth and adult athletic programs support staff. After many years of enjoying great parks and recreation experiences, it became evident to him something was missing from his current career path. He determined his current role was not fulfilling his passion for assisting individuals with special needs, thus he connected with local non-profits which lead him to The Autism Society of North Carolina. He found his calling!

Chuck started as a direct support staff and assisted individuals on the autism spectrum thrive within communities, as well as their families. Today, Chuck continues to follow his calling as the residential care coordinator with Tthe Autism Society of North Carolina, where he manages a home for three amazing individuals.

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MRPA IN ACTION Beyond Diversity 101 Training More than 50 people attended the educational seminar on May 9 at the New Brighton Community Center. The seminar was led by presenter Anne Phibbs with Strategic Diversity Initiatives. The content focused on the following three areas: • Beyond

Diversity 101: Micro-inequities, Implicit Bias, and Moving Toward Equity

• Universal

Design in Mind: Inclusive Program Development and Communication

• Behind

the Letters: Understanding LGBTQIA Identities

Thank you to the City of New Brighton for hosting, and to the Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation for sponsoring this seminar.

Someone You Should Know: LAKE JOHNSON Similar to many in the parks and recreation profession, recreation and sports played large roles in Lake Johnson’s life growing up. “I grew up in Maple Grove and participated in various parks and recreation programs and sports from a young age all the way through high school,” says Johnson. “We were lucky enough to live close to a number of city parks, and I recall spending summer days playing at these parks. Whether it was swimming at the beach, climbing the giant “spider web” at Weaver Lake Park or playing a neighborhood softball game at Crosswinds, some of my best memories involve parks and recreation.”

It was not until college, sophomore year, when she realized “parks and recreation” was actually a profession. “I was set on following in my mom’s footsteps to becoming a teacher, as I knew I loved children, loved working with people, and wanted a career in which I’d help others,” she adds. “After being introduced to the degree in an intro class, it didn’t take long for me to realize that I could get those same things with a career in parks and recreation.”

Johnson adds, “My career in parks and recreation actually began sooner than I even realized! My first job was actually working as a soccer referee for Maple Grove Parks and

Recreation during junior high. So I can really thank them for kick-starting my parks and recreation career.”

In college, Johnson worked in facility operations all four years for the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities at Williams Arena and Sports Pavilion, working at various athletic events and assisting with the day-to-day operations. “During the summer months, I also coached T-ball for Maple Grove Parks and Recreation, which was a program I had participated in as a child. During my final semester, I had the opportunity to intern for Roseville Parks and Recreation, in which I worked closely with the youth programs and special events.”

Following graduation, Johnson received a full-time job in Mankato, working as a recreational specialist for Mankato Community Education and Recreation Department. “I was responsible for all youth programming, as well as the adults with disabilities programming, which included an adaptive downhill and water ski program,” she states. “I am so thankful and appreciative to the lessons and skills that I was able to develop during my time in that position, as well as the people that I got to work with along the way.”

Johnson says, “In hopes of getting back to the cities and closer to family, I accepted a position outside of the parks and recreation world. However, it didn’t take me long to realize where my passion laid. I was grateful enough to get hired back on with Roseville Parks and Recreation as adult recreation

supervisor, where I ran all the adult leagues, field scheduling and worked closely with the various youth associations. After two years in the adult recreation role and after recent retirements and department restructuring, I now find myself over at the Roseville Skating Center and MN OVAL, as recreation programs and facility manager, where I am actively learning to drive the Zamboni!”

Johnson’s first involvement with MRPA began during her time in Mankato, when she joined Southern Minnesota Recreation and Park Association (SMRPA). “As a new professional, fresh out of college, SMRPA was such a great opportunity to meet my fellow colleagues and allowed me to really feel a part of the recreation community,” says Johnson.

“SMRPA happened to be hosting the MRPA Annual Conference in Mankato in 2015. I was able to be a part of the planning committee and meet other professionals from around the state.”

Since then, Johnson has been active in MRPA, from attending the annual conferences and other MRPA training opportunities to helping form the athletic management group.

“MRPA has offered me great educational opportunities in order to continue to grow in my career,” she says. “MRPA has also allowed me the opportunity to connect, network and meet others, not only across the metro, but across the state, which is so valuable. I plan to continue to stay involved in MRPA through various facets and encourage others to do the same, as it will only help us all become better parks and recreation professionals!”

MRPA members are the heart of our organization. They are involved and committed to advancing the parks and recreation programming. MRPA in Action is a new magazine feature which will highlight one section/committee and one professional per issue.

8 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

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KEEPING UP Albert Lea Hosts Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener Each year, the Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener is hosted by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Explore Minnesota, the governor, and a new host community. This year, the City of Albert Lea hosted the event on fishing opener weekend, May 11 and 12. Albert Lea Parks and Recreation was one of the many organizations involved in this event.

Fishing is a key part of a $15.3 billion tourism industry, and approximately 500,000 anglers celebrate the Minnesota season opener, according to Explore Minnesota.

The Governor’s Fishing Opener has been in the following locations over the past 10 years:

Photo: Jessica Brouillette

Next year’s Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener will be held May 7-10 in Otter Tail County, with Thumper Pond Resort serving as event headquarters. The fishing opener has been a tradition in Minnesota since 1948, according to Explore Minnesota. It is designed to improve the state’s economy through the development and promotion of the state’s recreational opportunities, especially fishing.

Governor Tim Walz fishing Fountain Lake in Albert Lea during the Minnesota Governor’s Fishing Opener 2019.

2018: Willmar lakes area

2014: Brainerd lakes area

2011: Grand Rapids

2017: Greater St. Cloud area

2013: Park Rapids

2010: Lake Kabetogama

2016: Big Sandy Lake, McGregor

2012: Waconia

2009: White Bear Lake

2015: Lake Vermilion area

Wednesday, July 17th" 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Brookview 316 Brookview Parkway South Golden Valley, MN 55426

10 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Flashback: 1941 This is a conference brochure from 1941. Sessions held during this one-day conference were on topics such as recreation and national defense, planning of community recreation facilities, and recent developments in recreation in Minnesota.

Sessions began at 10 a.m. and the conference concluded with a banquet program at 6:30 p.m.

MRPA

Join us for a networking event at Brookview in Golden Valley. Connect with other members in a fun in-person meet and greet. Try a game of lawn bowling, enjoy an appetizer on the patio, and connect with other YPSN members.

FLASHBACK

Young Professional and Student Network (YPSN) Event

KEEPING UP City of Brooklyn Park Rebrands Historic Eidem Farm This spring, in honor of its 40th anniversary and recommendations from the 2018 Master Plan for Eidem Homestead, the City of Brooklyn Park renamed and rebranded their historic farm – changing it from Eidem Homestead to Historic Eidem Farm.

“The City is proud of the rich history of our community farm,” said Michelle Margo, Brooklyn Park recreation program & services manager. “The new name better showcases that it’s a historic site, which hopefully invites people to come explore.”

Margo contracted graphic designer Todd Pernsteiner to create the new farm logo. “We knew we wanted some fresh ideas of how best to represent the historic homestead with a

modern look, and for ease of use across multiple marketing platforms. We had our designer develop three variations of the final logo,” she added. “Our new logo gives it a cleaner, more professional look and reproduces well on all types of marketing collateral.”

New Historic Eidem Farm logo

We take a unique approach to every design Old Eidem Farm logo Design with community in mind stantec.com/parks-recreation

Minneapolis MN

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Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 11

SCHOOL MEALS DON’T HAVE TO STOP JUST BECAUSE IT’S SUMMER. Summer Eats Minnesota serves free healthy and delicious meals during the summer.

It’s open to children up to age 18. Best of all, no registration required.

How to locate free meals:

Download the FREE “Summer Eats Minnesota” app from your smartphone’s app store and find serving sites nearby.

SCHOOL MEALS DON’T HAVE TO STOP JUST BECAUSE IT’S SUMMER.

Or text “summer meals” to 97779.

Have your address ready and find the serving sites near you.

SCHOOL MEALS DON’T HAVE TO STOP JUST BECAUSE IT’S SUMMER.

There are free serving sites across the state at parks, recreation centers, community centers, libraries, and schools. Adding more sites daily starting June 10th so watch for updates!

Summer Eats Minnesota serves free healthy and delicious meals during the summer.

It’s open to children up to age 18. Best of all, no registration required.

Summer Eats Minnesota serves free healthy and delicious meals during the summer.

It’s open to children up to age 18. Best of all, no registration required.

How to locate free meals:

How to locate free meals:

Download the FREE “Summer Eats Minnesota” app from your smartphone’s app store and find serving sites nearby.

Or text “summer meals” to 97779.

Have your address ready and find the serving sites near you.

There are free serving sites across the state at parks, recreation centers, community centers, libraries, and schools. Adding more sites daily starting June 10th so watch for updates!

Download the FREE “Summer Eats Minnesota” app from your smartphone’s app store and find serving sites nearby.

Kids just show up and eat. | www.summereatsmn.org

Or text “summer meals” to 97779.

Have your address ready and find the serving sites near you.

There are free serving sites across the state at parks, recreation centers, community centers, libraries, and schools. Adding more sites daily starting June 10th so watch for updates!

Kids just show up and eat. | www.summereatsmn.org

Kids just show up and eat. | www.summereatsmn.org

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

This program is funded by the USDA

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

This program is funded by the USDA

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

This program is funded by the USDA

S A V E TH E DA TE! MRPF Annual Golf Tournament & Events Thursday, September 12

Join us for the Annual Golf Tournament and Networking Event at the historic Theodore Wirth Golf Course, featuring golf, activities, mingling with parks and recreation colleagues, and prize giveaways. Visit www.mrpf.org for more details and sponsorship information.

SPONSORED BY

12 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

FROM FARM (TO MARKET) TO TABLE Minnesota Farmers' markets help build healthy communities through fresh, local products

By Todd Pernsteiner, Pernsteiner Creative Group

Minnesota communities are continually looking for ways to provide healthy eating options to all residents. And conversely, family-run farm owners are looking for ways to be more profitable by selling their crops directly to consumers. Farmers’ markets offer a perfect solution to both groups.

Seasonal and year-round farmers’ markets can be found in communities all across Minnesota. In fact, Minnesota Grown, a partnership between the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and Minnesota producers, lists 188 operating Minnesota farmers’ markets on their website. Their interactive map illustrates markets dotted on every corner of the state.

A common goal among farmers’ market operators is assuring that everyone – regardless of income – has access

to fresh, nutritional foods. “Last year we implemented the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) into our market, which will continue again this year,” said Trevor Magnuson, recreation specialist with the City of Moorhead.

“Hunger Solutions has also partnered with First Presbyterian Church and the market to match each SNAP dollar spent, up to $10,” added Magnuson.

Farmers’ markets offer residents a wide selection of homegrown products, many which are organic. “The biggest reward in producing the Shoreview Farmers’ Market is providing the residents with fresh, locally grown produce,” explained Stephanie Schutta, City of Shoreview recreation program coordinator. “We are also creating an environment where we can educate children, youth and adults on food production and a healthy, sustainable way of living.”

Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 13

“IT’S FUN TO SEE THE SAME FACES EACH WEEK AS THE SHOPPERS COME THROUGH. YOU REALLY FORM A CONNECTION WITH THE CONSUMERS AND OTHER VENDORS.”

Markets Empower a Sense of Community

We almost exclusively buy eggs at farmers’ markets year-round. We feel they’re much better quality.”

Farmers’ markets unite neighbors and provide social opportunities. Many offer ways to encourage residents of all ages to shop at their sites. “We transport seniors to the market from assisted living buildings to purchase veggies,” said Deb Griffith, community affairs liaison with the City of South St. Paul.

Knowing and interacting with the farmer also provides comfort to some shoppers.

“We buy vegetables at our farmers’ market, and I love buying honey there as well. That way I know that it’s from a location close to home. This helps monitor reactions from potential food allergies,” said Sarah Manes, Richfield and Nakomis Farmers’ Market shopper and new mother. “The vendors tell me where their beehives are and the location is also usually on the label.

I follow the honey rule: ‘purchase within a 25-mile radius from where you live.’ They say that all the allergens that can help build immunity are best within that span.”

Customers say they patronize farmers’ markets for the familiar faces. Anthony McClellan visits the Plainview Farmers’ Market regularly for a variety of products, not just produce. He also enjoys the social aspect. “I shop for homemade baked goods, hand lotions, lip balm, honey, and pickles. I normally pick up fresh produce every week,” he said. “And I know many of the vendors by name.”

“Eagan Market Fest is a weekly community gathering, not just a farmers’ market. We have a beautiful park space where the market is held, and along with our market vendors, we have a playground, splash pad, indoor restrooms and walking paths,” explained Sarah Larsen, Eagan Market Fest and events program assistant.

“We love the farmers’ market. We occasionally like to have brunch at their food trucks. We also like to people watch, enjoy music and partake in children’s activities,” said Minneapolis resident Laura Murphy. “We visit two or three farmers’ markets every summer weekend and basically buy all the produce we can.

Markets Make for a Family Affair Many Minnesota farmers’ markets offer educational and fun activities for both youth and families – from cooking classes and hands-on educational demonstrations, to live entertainment, scavenger hunts and themed costume contests.

“We encourage youth to attend the market and bring their parents and/or grandparents,” explained South St. Paul’s Griffith. “We offer a ‘Mini Chef Clinic’ where Chef Julane teaches youth how to make fun recipes using items from the market. She holds story time (with a story relating to the recipe) and then shows the youth how to make it. The South St. Paul

EAGAN MARKET FEST

14 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

ABOVE: CHEF JULANE TEACHES KIDS HOW TO MAKE RECIPES AT THE SOUTH ST. PAUL FARMERS’ MARKET Mayor’s Youth Task Force supplies all of the items to make the recipe at home.”

Both customers and vendors alike make the farmers’ market a family tradition.

“I love going to the farmers’ market with my four kids to see them get excited about the fresh fruits and vegetables. They like to try new things, and love to pick out our produce for the week,” said Melissa Sack, a Maple Grove Farmers’ Market shopper.

Kathy Celt and her sister Cindy operate Uptown Jam out of Celts home in Hugo, MN. They have been a cottage food vendor at the Shoreview Farmers’ Market for five years and Forest Lake Market for two years. “I enjoy the atmosphere at the markets and seeing all the great vendors.

We purchase fresh produce there and use it in our own products, said Celt. “It’s fun to see the same faces each week as the shoppers come through. You really form a connection with the consumers and other vendors.”

“ONE OF THE BIGGEST REWARDS IS SEEING OUR VENDORS’ PRODUCTS IN STORES. FARMERS’ MARKETS ARE GREAT STARTING POINTS FOR ENTREPRENEURS AND WE LOVE TO SEE THEM TAKE THE NEXT STEP.…”

Benefits Outweigh The Challenges With a shorter growing season in Minnesota, supplying multiple farmers’ markets every week can be a challenge for vendors if they don’t have greenhouses. In the spring and early summer, a limited amount of locally-grown produce is available. As the season progresses, customers come to see what is currently available.

Planning when and where to hold a farmers’ market is another challenge communities face. A weekday market might appeal to seniors and work-at-home parents, but could exclude people who work in an office from 9-5. Conversely, an evening market could cut into family dinner time and possibly exclude older populations.

Another challenge Minnesota farmers’ market organizers face is vendor availability. “Vendor retention has been a challenge the last couple of years. They have so many more markets that they can chose from,” said Shoreview’s Schutta. “We added a daily stall option a couple years ago to be able to accommodate those vendors that would like to dip their toes in other markets, but still come to our market.”

RICHFIELD FARMERS’ MARKET

“One of the biggest rewards is seeing our vendors’ products in stores. Farmers’ markets are great starting points for entrepreneurs and we love to see them take the next step in to retail,” said Eagan’s Larsen.

A handful of market sites also participate in the Power of Produce (POP) program which was highlighted in the Fall 2018 issue of MRPA’s MINNESOTA magazine. POP provides a fun opportunity for children to engage in the local food system through conversations directly with farmers, educational games and demonstrations, and exposure to new fruits and vegetables. In addition to participating in educational activities, POP Club kids receive special vouchers to spend at the market, allowing them to make their own shopping decisions at the market.

Sack takes advantage of the POP program. “You can sign up kids ages 4-12 for the program and every week they give each child a $2 token for produce,” she said. “It’s $2 just for the kids to pick out anything they want, making them more likely to try something new!”

Maria Vogel, a mother of three, also goes to the Maple Grove Farmers’ Market and has taken advantage of the POP program.

“My daughter has used her tokens to try new things. Once she even bought a small tomato plant,” said Vogel. “The market also has a children’s story time adjacent to the playground which makes for an excellent afternoon for a mom of three kids.”

ABOVE: GIRL SCOUT TROOP 55167 EARNED THEIR SILVER AWARD BY BRINGING FRESH PRODUCE TO THE RESIDENTS OF TWO HIGH-RISES IN SOUTH ST. PAUL.

“WE ADDED A DAILY STALL OPTION A COUPLE YEARS AGO TO BE ABLE TO ACCOMMODATE THOSE VENDORS THAT WOULD LIKE TO DIP THEIR TOES IN OTHER MARKETS, BUT STILL COME TO OUR MARKET.” Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 15

“IT WAS A HUGE COST SAVINGS FOR US (USING FARMERS’ MARKET FLOWERS) AND SO GORGEOUS. EACH BOUQUET WAS AROUND $10 AND WE ARRANGED THEM OURSELVES.”

Photo: Anthony McClellan

“I’ve used farmers’ market flowers for baby and bridal showers, Mother’s Day gifts, and thank you presents,” said Jane Marrone, who works in downtown Minneapolis and lives in St. Paul.

She frequents both the Downtown St. Paul and Nicollet Mall (Minneapolis) Farmers’ Markets to also shop for beans, squash, peppers, rhubarb, locally-produced honey, sauces, and kettle corn.

PLAINVIEW FARMERS’ MARKET

Farmers' markets Help tie the knot Customers often rely on farmers’ market flowers to decorate some of their biggest life events, like weddings and bridal showers.

South Minneapolis residents Sarah and Stacey Manes used flowers from the St. Paul Farmers’ Market for their nuptials. To guarantee they would have exactly what they wanted, they pre-ordered at the end of the 2014 season for their June 2015 wedding.

“I’m sure I didn’t need to pre-order, but I felt more confident to ensure that the flowers would be ready and set aside for easy pick-up. We wanted to make sure they weren’t sold out when we got there,” commented (Sarah) Manes. “By placing an order ahead of time, we could specify if there were certain types of flowers or colors we didn’t want; for example, we didn’t want sunflowers.

It was a huge cost savings for us and so gorgeous. Each bouquet was around $10 and we arranged them ourselves.”

Getting YOUR Market Off the Ground If your community doesn’t have a market, the thought of starting one may seem a bit daunting; however, there are a multitude of great resources for communities interested in starting one. In addition to Minnesota Grown, the Minnesota Farmers’ Market Association (MFMA) provides services, programs, and leadership support to market organizers. Plus, other surrounding communities can be some of the best resources when it comes to planning a market.

A great way to cover start-up costs and ongoing operational expenses is through sponsorships with community organizations.

“We are fortunate to have a couple of generous sponsors in addition to support from city council,” explained Larsen. “Think Mutual Bank sponsors our weekly entertainment, The Urgency Rooms sponsors our Kids Power of Produce Club, and Sun This Week newspaper provides in-kind sponsorship with marketing.”

Both Minnesota Grown and MFMA have listings of farmers’ market sites on their websites. Plus, other organization websites offer details on food regulations, licensing, youth programs, and lowincome shopping assistance.

Farmers' market MANAGER's ToolKit • Minnesota Grown www.minnesotagrown.com

• Minnesota Farmers’ Market Association www.mfma.org • Minnesota Department of Agriculture www.mda.state.mn.us • SNAP www.fns.usda.gov/snap • Hunger Solutions www.hungersolutions.org • Power of Produce (POP) / Farmers’ market Coalition www.farmersmarketcoalition.org

Did you know?

Photo: NLJ Studios

MANES WEDDING FLOWERS FROM SAINT PAUL FARMERS’ MARKET

16 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Sellers can make certain cottage foods in their home kitchens (baked goods, pickled and canned foods, jams, jellies, etc.) without a license – however, sellers must first take a Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA)-approved food safety training and register with the MDA. For more information on cottage food, visit MDA’s website at www.bit.ly/MNcottagefoods.

“MARKET FEST IS FORTUNATE TO RECEIVE A GREAT LEVEL OF SUPPORT FROM ELECTED OFFICIALS AND THE COMMUNITY.…IT’S A GREAT WAY TO SUPPORT LOCAL FOOD SOURCES AND SPUR LOCAL ECONOMIC GROWTH.”

Meet Minnesota Farmers' marketers Minnesota farmers’ markets appear in both small and large communities all across the state. Here is a small glimpse of some of these markets…

Eagan Market Fest City: Eagan Population: 66,527 Market location: Eagan Festival Grounds, 1501 Central Parkway, Eagan, MN 55122 Farmers’ market days and hours: Summer Market, Wednesdays June – August, 4 – 8 p.m.; Fall Market, Wednesdays September, 3 – 7 p.m.

Start and end dates (for the season): June 5 – September 25, 2019 Number of vendors: 40

A: No 3. What’s the most unique item a vendor sells at your market?

A: Our marketing efforts include a robust presence on social media, a seasonspecific rack card as well as ads in the local newspaper. Eagan Market Fest also accepts several voucher programs to reach new audiences including: SNAP/ EBT, Medica Healthy Savings, Kid’s POP Club and a shopper loyalty program.

Q: What is your most popular market booth?

Q&A with Sarah Larsen, Eagan Market Fest and events program assistant…

Q: What are your biggest challenges to producing your market?

A: Yes, 45-50

A: Eagan Market Fest, like many other markets, is a great way to support local food sources and spur local economic growth.

Q: Do you do anything special to draw visitors to your market?

Farmers’ market website: www.cityofeagan.com/marketfest

Q: Do you have a limit on the number of vendors at your market?

Q: What are the biggest rewards in producing your market?

Microgreens or a vendor specializes in paleo specific foods.

A: Each vendor has its own level of popularity. When the flowers are in bloom in late summer, those booths quickly become the fan favorite; other vendors who have a strong following include Tollefson Family Pork, Ruhland Strudel Haus, and of course our great produce vendors.

Fee for vendors: varies based on booth size Full season: $350 for a 10’x10’ space, $500 for a 10’x20’ space, $650 for a 10’x30’ space or weekly: $40 for a 10’x10’ space

It can be a challenge to balance the farmers’ market details with the community event details to ensure everyone has a great experience.

Q: Do you require a certain percentage mix of food and non-food items?

Q: Do you have entertainment at your Farmers’ market?

A: Yes, each week we have a different type of music. We try to have a wide variety, such as country, oldies, a capella, jazz and international.

Additionally, we coordinate with the Eagan Art House to provide biweekly art projects for market visitors to complete during their time at Market Fest.

Q: Do you have any interesting stories about something that has happened at the market?

A: We once received a call from a staff member that a trash can was on fire on the market grounds. Luckily it was just smoldering, but it just goes to show that you need to be prepared for anything when working with events!

A: Eagan Market Fest is very fortunate to receive a great level of support from elected officials and the community.

Winning Minnesota's Food Fight Nearly 1 in 10 Minnesotans are food insecure. Yes, 1 in 10! That’s more than 500,000 Minnesotans who don’t know where their next meal is coming from.

Hunger Solutions Minnesota works with both state and federal governments to advance programs that tackle hunger on the large scale. They work with food banks and shelves to distribute food on the smaller scale – working to connect hungry people with local help. And they work with public and private sector partners to bring community resources to the table.

As the only statewide anti-hunger organization whose services reach every county of Minnesota, they are not only fighting against hunger today, but also finding long-term solutions to end hunger in the future as well.

Using Market Bucks Everyone should have access to fresh, healthy, local food. Market Bucks help SNAP customers stretch their dollars at Farmers’ markets making healthy food more affordable.

Market Bucks match SNAP-EBT spending dollar-for-dollar (up to $10) at participating farmers’ markets across Minnesota. There are four easy steps for customers to use SNAP-EBT at the farmers’ market: 1. They go to the information booth at the farmers’ market.

2. They swipe the EBT card and spend $10.* 3. They get $10* in free Market Bucks.

4. They shop for up to $20 of SNAPeligible food at the farmers’ market.

Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 17

WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST REWARDS IN PRODUCING YOUR MARKET? “THE COMMUNITY GETTING FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLES.”

Eyota Farmers' market City: Eyota

Faribault Farmers' market

Population: 2,015

City: Faribault

Market location: Westside Park, Hwy 42 and Fifth St.

Population: 13,578

Q: Do you have a limit on the number of vendors at your market?

Market location: Central Park, 510 NW 2nd Ave.

A: Yes, limits on crafters; there’s always room for food

Start and end dates (for the season): May 28-October 16

Farmers’ market days and hours: Saturdays 7 a.m. – Noon, Wednesday (beginning July 1) 4 – 8 p.m.

Q: Do you require a certain percentage mix of food and non-food items?

Fee for vendors: $10 per week or $100 seasonal

Start and end dates (for the season): Approximately June 1 – mid-October

Information collected from City of Eyota’s website.

Number of vendors: 20

Farmers’ market days and hours: Tuesdays, 4 – 7 p.m.

Fee for vendors: $40 annually

Q&A with Paul Peanasky, Faribault parks and recreation director…

A: Yes, more food than crafts Q: Do you do anything special to draw visitors to your market?

A: We hold Family Day in September Q: What has helped make your market unique?

A: Longevity Q: What is the most popular market booth?

EAGAN MARKET FEST

A: Cookies Q: Do you have entertainment at your market?

A: Occasionally small musical groups Q: What are your biggest challenges to producing your market?

A: Making changes to current format and management Q: What are the biggest rewards in producing your market?

A: The community getting fresh fruits and vegetables

18 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST REWARD OF PRODUCING YOUR FARMERS’ MARKET?…“PROVIDING AN OPPORTUNITY FOR OUR COMMUNITY TO INTERACT AND PURCHASE HOME GROWN/MADE GOODS.”

Moorhead Farmers' market

Q&A with Trevor Magnuson, Moorhead recreation specialist…

City: Moorhead

Q: Do you have a limit on the number of vendors at your market?

Population: 43,122

A: No

Market location: Moorhead Ace Hardware Parking Lot Farmers’ market days and hours: Tuesdays; 3:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Q: Do you require a certain percentage mix of food and non-food items?

A: No

Start and end dates (for the season): June 18 – September 24 (15 weeks)

Q: What’s the most unique item a vendor sells at your market?

Number of vendors: 10-15

A: Each vendor has their own unique products, but some of the handcrafted wooden items stick out.

Fee for vendors: $60/season or $20/day Farmers’ market website: www.cityofmoorhead.com/departments/ parks-recreation

Q: Do you partner with any outside organizations to produce your market?

A: Moorhead Ace Hardware has graciously allowed us to use their parking lot for the 2019 market; First Presbyterian Church also coordinates SNAP at our market.

Q: What are your biggest challenges to producing your market?

A: This year we had to find a new location due to construction. However, I think the biggest challenge is always the weather!

Q: What is the biggest reward in producing your Farmers’ market?

A: Providing an opportunity for our community to interact and purchase home grown/made goods.

FARIBAULT FARMERS’ MARKET

Shoreview Farmers' market City: Shoreview Population: 27,210

Start and end dates (for the season): June 11 - October 15

Q&A with Stephanie Schutta, Shoreview recreation program coordinator…

Number of vendors: 30+

Market location: Shoreview Community Center Parking Lot

Fee for vendors: Varies on the booth size.

Daily Stalls: $25; Single Stalls: $340; Double Stalls: $525

Farmers’ market days and hours: Tuesday’s from 3 – 7 p.m.; hours switch in September to 3 – 6 p.m.

Farmers’ market website: www.shoreviewcommunitycenter.com/ programs/special-events/farmers-market

Q: Do you have a limit on the number of vendors at your market?

A: Yes, we have a set number of stalls, however, with some vendors being daily stall rates, we are able to accommodate more vendors.

Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 19

“WE HAVE BEEN AROUND FOR 21 YEARS AND ARE ESTABLISHED IN OUR COMMUNITY. WE HAVE LOYAL CUSTOMERS THAT LOOK FORWARD TO OUR MARKET EACH SEASON.” Shoreview Q&A continued…

Q: Do you require a certain percentage mix of food and non-food items?

A: No, we do not. We do our best to make sure that there is not an over saturation of a product at our market.

Q: What’s the most unique item a vendor sells at your market?

A: We have a variety of vendors that sell unique products such as mushrooms, chocolate bread, unique jams, and a variety of produce options.

4. Do you do anything special to draw visitors to your market?

Q: Do you partner with any outside organizations to produce your market?

A: We have a variety of special events throughout the season to draw visitors to the market. We also have a frequent shopper card that rewards loyal vistors.

Do you have entertainment at your market?

A: No, we do not partner with any outside organizations. We do, however, partner with organizations like, the library and community groups. They will bring in activities on some market days to engage our visitors.

A: Some weeks we do have entertainment at the market. We have local musicians that donate their time to the market.

Q: What is the most popular booth(s) at the market?

Q: What has helped make your market unique?

A: The most popular booths at our market are the produce vendors, bakeries, and meat vendor.

A: We have been around for 21 years and are established in our community.

We have loyal customers that look forward to our market each season.

SHOREVIEW FARMERS’ MARKET

ABOVE: KATHY CELT IS A LICENSED COTTAGE FOOD PRODUCER, SHE AND HER SISTER CINDY HAVE BEEN OPERATING THEIR BUSINESS, UPTOWN JAM, OUT OF CINDY’S HOME IN HUGO FOR SIX YEARS. CINDY MAKES A VARIETY OF JAMS, SALSAS, BLOODY MARY MIXES. CINDY PICKLES ZUCCHINI, BEANS, AND BEETS.

20 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Experience Minnesota Summers From trails and athletic fields to community gathering spaces, ISG is constantly looking for ways to strengthen our value as project partners, and opportunities to increase the value, longevity, and versatility of the solutions we provide.

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“THEY (YOUTH) LOVE THE MINI CHEF CLASSES, AND IF THE KIDS ARE EXCITED TO COME TO THE MARKET, THE PARENTS ARE AS WELL.

South St. Paul (SSP) Farmers' market City: South St. Paul Population: 20,242 Market location: Wakota Federal Credit Union Parking Lot Farmers’ market days and hours: 2 – 6 p.m.

Start and end dates (for the season): June 26-September 15 Number of vendors: 10 – 12 Fee for vendors: The Saint Paul Farmers’ market handles the fees for farmers Farmers’ market website: www.stpaulfarmersmarket.com Q&A with Deb Griffith, City of South St. Paul community affairs liaison…

Q: Do you have a limit on the number of vendors at your market?

A: It would be about 20 due to parking lot space.

Q: Do you require a certain percentage mix of food and non-food items?

A: It is mostly fresh vegetables and fruit - we do have plants and cut flowers while in season, and occasionally honey and bakery.

Q: What’s the most unique item a vendor sells at your market?

A: Cut flowers Q: Do you do anything special to draw visitors to your market?

A: Yes, we offer a SSP Community booth.

We have educational and fun activities for youth. In additioni to our “Mini Chef Clinic,” we also have a weekly scavenger hunt where youth receive a bucket with a number in the bottom of the bucket and they need to find that number with one of the farmers. If they do, they receive free veggies.

The South St. Paul Public Library visits the market and can register patrons for library cards and programming. They also bring recipe books and Do-ItYourself kits.

MINI CHEF PARTICIPANT AT SOUTH ST. PAUL FARMERS’ MARKET 22 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

The City also received a grant from Allina Health to bring fresh produce to the residents of two high-rise buildings in South St. Paul. Girl Scout Troop 55167 earned their Silver Award by running this project. Each week (14 weeks total), the girls came to the market and purchased baskets of $150 worth of produce – five different items each week. They took the full baskets to the buildings and would set them out in the community room.

Residents would come and take what they needed – all for free. It was so appreciated by the residents and we never had any produce left.

Q: What has helped make your market unique?

A: Engaging the youth. They love the Mini Chef classes, and if the kids are excited to come to the market, the parents are as well.

Q: Do you partner with any outside organizations to produce your market?

A: Yes, The City of South St. Paul (thru Community Affairs), Wakota Federal Credit Union (host site) and the Saint Paul Farmers’ Market.

SOUTH ST. PAUL MINI CHEF PREPARED DISH

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Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 23

MANY KIDS HAD A HARD TIME IDENTIFYING BEANS AND PEAS, BUT HAD NO PROBLEMS IDENTIFYING EGGPLANT...AS IT TURNS OUT, EGGPLANT IS AN ITEM USED TO IDENTIFY THE COLOR PURPLE. South St. Paul continued…

Q: What is the most popular booth(s) at the market?

A: They are all popular.

Many have a favorite.

Q: What are your biggest challenges to producing your market?

A: Weather - it is on a blacktop parking lot. It can be hot or rainy, but still is a popular destination.

Q: What is the biggest reward in producing your market?

A: Seeing the youth at the market and their happy faces; and getting a photo of their recipe from the Mini Chef Clinic.

Q: Do you have entertainment at your market?: A: Yes, some weeks we offer music.

Q: Do you have any fun or funny market stories?

A: A couple of interesting stories. Story #1: We were setting up for a Mini Chef Clinic and with the local

cable TV company. We were set for a fun afternoon with little kids (this would have been our first Mini Chef Clinic). To the north, there was this cloud, didn’t seem bad, until it hit. Wind, rain, hail and the camera (with its raincoat one) kept rolling.

The story changed from a fun Mini Chef Clinic to the storm of the century.

The story won an award and we eventually dried out (including the camera).

We lost the tent and there were vegetables all over the market, but the sun came out and the market went on without a hitch.

Story #2: We had a contest with the youth called “What vegetable or fruit is this?”

Kids just needed to identify the photos. Many kids had a hard time identifying beans and peas, but had no problems identifying eggplant. We found that odd, but as it turns out, eggplant is an item used to identify the color purple.

Who knew?

South St. Paul market Goes Green South St. Paul’s Farmers’ Market has been selected to be a pilot project called “Thinking Green in South St. Paul.” The goal is to see if they can reduce – or maybe even eliminate – single use bags given to us from the farmers.

On average, a person can receive up to six single-use bags at the market each week. South St. Paul’s market runs for 14 weeks, with an average of 250 people attending weekly – with a potential for as many as 1,500 bags given out every season, it’s a lot of bags. The City wants to change that.

“We are encouraging the farmers not to place items in single use plastic bags. We are encouraging the patrons to bring reusable bags or baskets to take their produce home,” said Deb Griffith, South St. Paul community affairs liasison. “We will be handing out a limited number of 100% recycled reusable bags to attendees, and will hold a weekly drawing for those that bring their own bags or containers for their purchases.”

South St. Paul will host a “Going Green in South St. Paul” booth at the market each week. They’ve invited other city departments to be part of the series to showcase ways to go green or ways that their departments are green.

Did you know?

The average single-use bag is only used for 11 minutes – something to think about!

SNAP to It!

Accepting EBT cards at YOUR Farmers' market More and more Minnesota farmers’ markets are accepting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits when customers shop with their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card.

The University of Minnesota Extension offers assistance to markets in their Supporting Farmers’ Markets in Accepting SNAP Benefits publication.

This free 32-page online guide will walk you through all the steps necessary to accept SNAP benefits at a farmers’ market in Minnesota. It will help you:

Do you operate a farmers’ market in Minnesota? Want to explore accepting SNAP benefits at a farmers’ market, but don’t know how to get started?

• Apply for SNAP retailer status with the USDA • Engage community partners in promoting this service

24 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

• Get expert and practical advice on accepting SNAP benefits To view the publication, and for more details on accepting EBT cards, visit the U of M Extension via this quick link: www.bit.ly/ MNMarketSNAP

BY THE LATE 1980S, HMONG FARMERS HAD REVITALIZED THE SAINT PAUL AND MINNEAPOLIS FARMERS’ MARKETS, TRANSFORMING THEM INTO SOME OF THE MOST VIBRANT MARKETS IN THE COUNTRY.

The History of Hmong American

Farmers

in

Minnesota

By Pakou Hand, Hmong American Farmers Association

By the late 1980s, Hmong farmers had revitalized the Saint Paul and Minneapolis farmers’ markets, transforming them into some of the most vibrant markets in the country, while also changing Minnesota’s taste buds for Thai chili peppers and Chinese bok choy. As hard working farmers, they provided the fresh produce that fueled the exponential growth of farmers’ markets into suburban communities and urban corridors, and greatly increased the supply of nutritious, affordable food.

Today, Hmong American farmers are still leading the Twin Cities local food economy, making up more than 50 percent of all the farmers in metropolitan

area farmers’ markets. Hmong farmers are at the center of a Minnesota-based local foods economy that according to Compeer Financial generates over $250 million in annual sales.

Photo by: Mike Hazard

Hmong American farmers occupy a unique place in the history of Minnesota’s local foods movement. After the Vietnam War in the late 1970s, Hmong political refugees began resettling to Minnesota from Laos and Thailand, and many of those families relied on their agricultural skills to make a living growing fresh produce and flowers for local farmers’ markets.

Still, Hmong farmers continue to face many barriers to operating sustainable family businesses. Such challenges include lack of access to land, financing, training, research and alternative markets besides the farmers’ markets. In 2011, a group of Hmong farmers believed the best people to help Hmong farmers are Hmong farmers themselves, and so they came together to form the Hmong American Farmers Association (HAFA), a membership-based nonprofit.

HAFA was formed with the mission to advance the prosperity of Hmong American farmers through cooperative endeavors, capacity-building and advocacy. As part of an integrated approach to community wealth-building, HAFA manages a 155-acre farm in Dakota County where farmer members can lease land, hone their business and agricultural practices, and sell produce

WORKING ON THE HAFA FARM to the HAFA Food Hub. The HAFA Food Hub aggregates and sells members’ produce through community-supported agriculture (CSA) shares, schools, retailers and institutions. Through collective farm business development, education and advocacy, HAFA and Hmong farmers are trying to build a sustainable and fair food economy that works for all.

Meet Minnesota Grown The Minnesota Grown program is a statewide partnership between the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and Minnesota producers and growers.

For over 30 years, Minnesota Grown has been a marketing resource for farmers’ markets and local growers. There are 1,300+ logo license members, and 1,000+ members listed in the directory including 188 farmers’ markets. As a member of Minnesota Grown, markets and growers are able to use the Minnesota Grown logo, receive free marketing items like stickers and price

cards, and utilize the Labelling Cost Share Program. Minnesota Grown also promotes buying local through press releases, special events, and large-scale TV and digital advertising.

Each year Minnesota Grown publishes the Minnesota Grown Directory, which connects readers directly to local farmers, farmers’ markets, and other producers. It includes fun facts, fresh recipes, and family-friendly activities.

Search through the directory to find farmers’ markets, CSA farms, garden centers, wineries, fruit and vegetable growers, pick-your-own farms, livestock producers, meat processors, Christmas

tree growers, and gourmet products like honey, wild rice, and cheese.

When shoppers spot the Minnesota Grown logo at their grocery store or at the farmers’ market, they can be assured the item was grown in Minnesota! The directory is available in print and also online at www.minnesotagrown.com.

Printed directories are shipped to you for FREE! Farmers’ markets or growers who would like more membership information can contact Karen Lanthier, membership coordinator, at karen.lanthier@state. mn.us or 651-201-6140.

Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 25

Edible Playgrounds Encouraging kids to play with their food…literally

By Bethani Gerhard, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

Edible playgrounds combine a community garden with playground programming for children. By teaching youth how food is produced incorporates a better understanding of how food choices affect their health.

In June of 2012, the City of Eden Prairie added an edible playground at Prairie View Park thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor with a mission to educate children about healthy food and sustainability. The Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation also provided an $800 grant.

At the same time, an edible playground program called “Little Sprouts” was created at Staring Lake Outdoor Center in Eden Prairie. It is a program for ages 2 ½ to 6 with their parent, grandparent, or guardian.

“The Little Sprouts program is very popular and fills up quickly,” says Stan Tekiela, supervisor and naturalist at the

Staring Lake Outdoor Center. “This hour-and-a-half program is held every Friday morning from the beginning of June until the end of August. The class begins with weeding and planting in the garden. We then move inside the nature center where the children create a craft. We end the class for the day with a garden story.”

Tekiela adds, “We are very fortunate to have a greenhouse attached to the garden. It was a Girl Scouts’ silver project that the troop purchased and assembled. It has been a great addition to the Little Sprouts program.”

The edible playground program provides children in the Eden Prairie community access to fresh vegetables.

It also helps kids make the connection with fresh food to have an ongoing healthy way of life. The Prairie View Park edible playground involves youth in all aspects of farming the garden.

Youth prepare, serve, and eat the

26 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

The edible playground program provides children in the Eden Prairie community access to fresh vegetables.

It also helps kids make the connection with fresh food to have an ongoing healthy way of life.

Over the past three decades childhood obesity rates in America have tripled, and nearly one in three children are overweight. One of the leading causes of childhood obesity is an unhealthy diet. food they gardened as a means of encouraging awareness and appreciation of their food.

learning opportunities. Both the camp participants and students reap the benefits of the harvest.

“We work with master gardeners from the University of Minnesota,” says Nicole Weedman, senior recreation supervisor with Eden Prairie Parks and Recreation. “They come out once a week to educate the playground campers on how to care for gardens and take care of the pests in the gardens.”

The premise for adding edible gardens in the community is because over the past three decades childhood obesity rates in America have tripled, and nearly one in three children is overweight.

One of the leading causes of childhood obesity is an unhealthy diet.

Third grade elementary students plant at Prairie View Park in the spring. School teachers incorporate this program into their curriculum, tying in the mathematics, science, and technology (STEM) into the lessons. During the summer months, the edible playground is maintained

by Eden Prairie Parks and Recreation camp program participants through a garden club with scheduled

The edible playgrounds make a positive impact on the youth in Eden Prairie by helping them make healthier choices. Eden Prairie Parks and Recreation received a Minnesota Recreation and Park Association awards of excellence designation in 2012 in the programming and events category for their edible playground program.

One of the City of Eden Prairie’s edible playgrounds.

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Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 27

Benefits of a Community Garden + Guidelines for Starting One

By Bethani Gerhard, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

Many cities have established community gardens on their properties for residents.

Not only do gardens have a positive impact on the residents’ eating habits, but also on their sense of community.

Gardens are often maintained by local parks and recreation departments as a city park amenity.

Community gardens in Minnesota date back to the 1980s. Cities typically allow families to rent one plot, although some cities may allow families to rent more than one. Plot sizes can vary from a 10-foot plot, to a 20’ x 60’ plot. The most common size plot offered to renters is a 10’ x 15’.

The costs vary with plot size.

Additional amenities may be offered at community gardens. Some communities have fencing around their gardens. Several gardens rent raised beds for those with mobility impairments. Garden plot renters are also encouraged to donate extra produce, which is often picked-up weekly by staff and donated to local food shelves Other services may include: •

Storage shed and tools for use;

•

Picnic tables and shelter;

•

Onsite water along with hoses and hose holders;

•

Compost in the spring; and

•

Tilled gardens at the end of the season

The University of Minnesota Extension Service has an excellent master gardener program for cities to utilize. Local master gardener volunteers give research-based answers within a 48-hour timeframe.

According to the master gardener program, one of the frequently asked questions is how to address theft. One way to help prevent stealing is having fenced community gardens with a sign that states privately rented plots. Garden maintenance is another frequently asked question. Typically, plot renters are given notification as to a certain period of time for maintenance. If after that time the plot is still unattended, park maintenance tends to the garden for the remainder of the season and that plot renter is not allowed to rent in the future.

Not only do gardens have a positive impact on the residents’ eating habits, but also on their sense of community.

28 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 29

1. Organize a Meeting Determine whether a garden is really needed and wanted. Determine what kind it should be (vegetable, flower, organic). Determine who will be involved and who will benefit from a garden. Then invite neighbors, tenants, community organizations, gardening and horticultural societies, and possibly building superintendents if the garden will be near an apartment.

2. Form a Planning Committee This group can be comprised of people who feel committed to the garden creation and have the time to develop the garden at least in its initial stage. Choose wellorganized people as garden coordinators.

Form committees to tackle specific tasks such as funding and partnerships, youth activities, construction, and communication.

3. Identify All Your Resources Do a community assessment. What skills and resources already exist in the community that can aid in the garden’s creation? Contact local municipal planners about possible sites, as well as horticultural societies and other local sources. Look within your community for people with landscaping and gardening experience.

American Community Garden Association

Another great garden resource is the American Community Gardening Association, which gives guidelines for starting a successful community garden.

6. Prepare and Develop the Site

9. Determine Rules and Put Them in Writing

In most cases, the land will need considerable preparation for planting.

Organize volunteer crews to clean and gather materials. Then decide on the design and plot arrangement.

The gardeners themselves devise the best ground rules in order for everyone to know what is expected of them. Think of it as a code of behavior. Some examples are: How will the money paid for dues be used? How are plots assigned? Will gardeners share tools? Will they meet regularly?

Who handles basic maintenance?

7. Organize the Garden Members must decide how many plots are available and how they will be assigned.

Allow space for storing tools, making compost, and don’t forget the pathways between plots. Plant flowers or shrubs around the garden’s edges to promote goodwill with non-gardening neighbors, passersby, and municipal authorities.

8. Plan for Children Consider starting a special garden just for kids - including them is essential.

Children are not as interested in the size of the harvest, but rather in the process of gardening. A separate area for children allows them to explore the garden at their own speed.

CLICK IT!

4. Approach a Sponsor

Good communication ensures a strong community garden with active participation. Some ways to do this are by starting a telephone tree, creating an email list, installing a rainproof bulletin board in the garden, and having regular celebrations.

The American Community Garden Association also provides helpful tools in setting up community gardens, such as sample garden forms, start-up guides, garden manuals, and evaluations.

Visit communitygarden.org for more community garden information.

GET ON THE MAP!

Some gardens have membership dues, but for many, a sponsor is essential for donations of tools, seeds, or money.

Churches, schools, private businesses, or parks and recreation departments are all possible sponsors. One garden raised money by selling “square inches” at five dollars each to sponsors.

AGGA hosts an interactive community garden map on their website. Visit their home page to add yours.

RESOURCE ALERT Thinking of starting a community garden?

Already operate one, but want more tips and ideas? There’s a book written just for you!

5. Choose a Site

Start a Community Food Garden: The Essential Handbook by Lamanda Joy is the essential handbook for anyone starting a community garden. Even if you are already a gardener, already a community organizer or already a volunteer coordinator, this book will give you step-by-step instructions on how to start, maintain and sustain a community garden.

© Timber Press

Consider the amount of daily sunshine (vegetables need at least six hours a day), availability of water, and soil testing for possible pollutants. Find out who owns the land. Can the gardeners get a lease agreement for at least three years? Will public liability insurance be necessary?

10. Help Members Keep in Touch with Each Other

Already a community garden organizer? LaManda Joy will bring your skills to a new level and help you find the depth of community needed to keep that garden going and growing.

30Summer MINNESOTA 2019 •Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 30

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Monticello Community Garden Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary

By Ann Mosack, Community Center Director, City of Monticello

This summer the City of Monticello will celebrate the 10th anniversary of its community garden. For the past decade, a small piece of land behind the Monticello Community Center has been transformed into a community gathering space full of vines, flowers, and fresh produce.

In the early spring, the parks and recreation department brings in compost and helps prepare the garden before it’s turned over to a dedicated group of registered gardeners. The fenced space is comprised of 31 plots measuring 15’x20’ with walkways throughout. There’s a fee of $25 per year for residents to participate, and the garden is consistently filled to capacity with many gardeners returning year after year.

Throughout the growing season, from mid-May to mid-October, gardeners are encouraged to plant and maintain organic produce and donate their surplus produce to the local food shelf. The City of Monticello contributes with shared gardening supplies stored in the shed and access to water throughout the space. With contributions from so many people, the garden continues to be a successful space of community-building in Monticello!

With contributions from so many people, the garden continues to be a successful space of community-building in Monticello!

32 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 32

2019 CO N F E R E N C E G U I D E

82ND ANNUAL

MRPA Annual Conference & Exhibit Hall NOVEMBER 5-8, 2019

Earle Brown Heritage Center • Brooklyn Center, MN

MRPA Annual Conference 2019 Welcome to the 82nd annual Minnesota Recreation and Park Association Conference in Brooklyn Center. The conference committee has been hard at work to provide delegates, students, retirees, and associates a unique pre-conference session, engaging education opportunities, and exciting off-site tours of some of the area’s new and unique park facilities.

This conference will offer valuable networking events and the chance to meet a variety of vendors during the exhibit hall. We extend sincere gratitude to our conference sponsors and partners, as well as to the Annual Conference Committee for helping to make the 2019 MRPA Conference a great success. Thanks to all of you for joining us for a conference filled with locally grown talent and resources, and seeds of information you can bring back to help your community grow.

Jessie Koch, Kelly Mertes, and Paul Pearson 2019 Annual Conference Co-Chairs

2019 MRPA Annual Conference Committee The Annual Conference Committee chairs and their committees have organized an excellent education opportunity for all of the delegates.

This conference would not be possible without their time and dedication.

Conference Co-Chairs Jessie Koch Kelly Mertes Paul Pearson Program Committee Reed Smidt Nate Monahan Bridget Lindeman Ryan Gunderson Scott Heitkamp Jenna Smith

Exhibit Hall Committee Carrie Anderson Greg Simmons

Volunteer Committee Lisa Abernathy Margo Numedahl

Catering & Networking Events Committee Angie Dehn Tanya Mozingo

Sponsorship Committee Michelle Margo

Logistics Committee Scott Berggren Aaron Thelen Ryan Parks JJ Williams

Marketing Committee Todd Pernsteiner Libby Renslo

Thank You 2019 Sponsors!* Thank you to these MRPA Annual Conference sponsors for making this event possible:

Formerly 2nd Wind Excercies Equipment

MINNESOTA RECREATION AND PARK ASSOCIATION Our Mission: To improve the quality of life in Minnesota by enhancing the profession of parks, open space, recreation and leisure services

Tweet while at the conference using:

#mrpaconference2019

34 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

*As of press time.

Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019

Schedule At-A-Glance

Tuesday, November 5

Tuesday, November 5

Pre-Conference Institute

Registration Check-In......... 12:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Pre-Conference Institute................1 - 4 p.m.

12:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Wednesday, November 6

1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Registration Check-In................8 - 8:30 a.m.

Welcome & Opening Keynote............... 8:30 - 10:15 a.m.

Educational Sessions.........10:30 - 11:45 a.m.

Lunch.............................. 11:45 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Exhibit Hall...................................1 - 4 p.m.

Networking Event........................ 4 - 6 p.m.

Thursday, November 7 Registration Check-In ...............8 - 8:30 a.m.

Educational Sessions........... 8:30 - 9:45 a.m.

Off-Site Institute...................... 8:30 - 11 a.m.

Educational Sessions...............10 - 11:15 a.m.

Lunch........................11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Educational Sessions.............. 12:45 - 2 p.m.

Off-Site Institutes............... 12:30 - 2:45 p.m.

Educational Speed Sessions...... 2:15 - 3 p.m.

Afternoon Keynote...............3:15 - 4:30 p.m.

Friday, November 8 Registration Check-In................8 - 8:30 a.m.

Closing Keynote.................. 8:30 - 9:45 a.m.

Educational Sessions...............10 - 11:15 a.m.

Educational Sessions...11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Sponsored by SRF Consulting Group

Registration Check-In

Nature Play Areas – Breaking Barriers, Building Support, Creating Connections!

ROOM: GARDEN CITY

Chris Smith, Attorney, League of Minnesota Cities; Ann Walther, Attorney, MPRB Counsel, Rice, Michels & Walther, LLP; MaryLynn Pulscher, Environmental Education Manager, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board; Crystal Passi, Landscape Architect, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board; Ken Grieshaber, PLA, Principal, SRF Consulting Group, Inc.; Jody Yungers, Director of Recreation & Parks, City of Brooklyn Park; Jen Gillard, Recreation Program Supervisor, City of Brooklyn Park; Allison Quinn, Minneapolis Nature Pre-School In recent years, research has clearly shown, and the parks and recreation field has come to understand, that children’s unstructured, naturebased play has many physical, social, emotional, and cognitive benefits. These benefits contribute to the overall healthy development of a child.

Recognizing that spontaneous outdoor play has largely vanished from American culture, the convergence of these factors is leading many parks and recreation professionals to make concerted efforts to restore nature play to childhood. To date, one of the most common strategies for these efforts is the creation of specific areas for nature play — either by artfully integrating nature play elements into natural areas that encourage free play in nature, or by creating sometimes elaborate “nature playgrounds,” or through a combination of the two.

While the industry is still trying to develop a set of best practices for the creation of nature play spaces, there is an emerging set of principles and practices that can provide some guidance for public institutions and agencies in getting beyond the concerns of risk managers in development of these important nature play spaces. These emerging practices are not scientifically proven, absolute, or etched in stone; rather, they represent best judgment and analysis, based on the recent experiences of fellow professionals.

The bottom line: children need risk. It is a powerful catalyst for growth that helps them develop good judgment, persistence, courage, resiliency, and self-confidence.

Session Outcomes: • Hear how professionals worked with their risk managers to develop nature play within their communities • Learn how recreation immunity and discretionary immunity balance the risks and rewards of nature-based play • Explore the spectrum of nature play areas • Understand the core principles and key design elements for spaces intended to recreate nature-based play • Discover how professionals gained internal buy-in and engaged their forestry and parks crews to help build nature play areas in their park system • Acquire available resources to assist with designing nature play areas • Learn how parks and recreation agencies have incorporated nature play into programs

Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 35

Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019

Wednesday, November 6

10:30 – 11:45 a.m.

8:00 – 8:30 a.m.

3, 2, 1 Network

Registration / Continental Breakfast

9:00 – 10:15 a.m.

Opening Keynote

Carrie Tollefson: Getting After Life ROOM: GARDEN CITY

Sponsored by Hiway Federal Credit Union

Photo: Runner’s World

Being a world-class athlete takes a lot of drive, focus, determination, and perseverance, much like life. Learn from Olympic athlete, Carrie Tollefson, how to manage running circles on the track and through your dayto-day life.

Carrie was born and raised in Dawson, Minnesota. In high school, Carrie won 13 state championships setting a national record of five consecutive individual crosscountry state championships, plus eight state track championships.

While at Villanova University, Carrie won five individual NCAA championships and was a member of the 1999 NCAA Cross-Country Championship team. In 1998, Carrie was named NCAA indoor track athlete of the year and was the first person in NCAA history to win both the 3k and 5k.

As an Olympian and three-time national champion, she lives and trains in her home state of Minnesota, where she hopes to encourage and motivate the next generation.

ROOM: HARVEST A

Speakers: Seasoned MRPA Professionals You’ve heard of speed dating? Welcome to speed networking – a whirlwind session offering students the opportunity to network with recreation professionals from a variety of backgrounds. In this interactive session you’ll have a chance to sit down with professionals one-on-one and in small groups to introduce yourself and get to know people in the recreation field. Be prepared to discuss your career interests quickly and efficiently, showoff portfolios, get feedback on your resume/ cover letter, and ask questions.

How to Run a Successful Medallion Hunt!

ROOM: HARVEST B

Jerome Krieger, Recreation Manager, Blaine Parks and Recreation Medallion hunting is growing in popularity throughout the state. Many cities are now offering a medallion hunt, and there are many hunters who hunt throughout the year.

Learn tips and tricks to facilitate a successful medallion hunt and gain knowledge from a former finder of the Saint Paul Winter Carnival Medallion Hunt!

Directors’ Forum ROOM: HARVEST C

For Agency Parks and Recreation Directors Gather with fellow directors from across the state to discuss topics impacting your work as agency leaders. Directors will come together to discuss trends and share new ideas. Information will also be presented regarding National Recreation and Park Association’s Park Metric, and how this source of benchmark data could benefit parks and recreation departments in Minnesota.

36 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

The Proof is in the Paper ROOM: TACK A

Matt Haynes, Aquatic Product Manager, American Red Cross When was the last time you took an in-depth look at the documents and signs essential to the safety of your facility? Do they need updating? Should they be posted? Are they clear and consistent with the latest industry trends and regulations? All these questions and more will be answered in an interactive session designed to help ensure the right message reaches your patrons and staff in a clear and concise manner.

Data Practices for Parks and Recreation (No, we aren’t dummies! We just need an interpreter!)

ROOM: TACK B

Jennifer Fink, Director, New Brighton Parks and Recreation; Terri Spangrud, City Clerk, City of New Brighton Learn best practices for data retention and destruction from someone who helps the state craft the guidelines. Save yourself from future trouble and headaches! Don’t worry – Terri used to work in parks and recreation, so she’s almost one of us. We will also have a parks and recreation pro present in case we need translation.

How Do You TACKLE Customer Interactions?

ROOM: CAPTAIN’S

Iris Pahlberg-Peterson, Customer Service Supervisor, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board; Annie Olson, Customer Service Director, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board As locally grown as the walleye is to our state, so are the experiences unique to us in Minnesota parks. We all seek “The Good Life,” exactly what we provide through parks and recreation! Join us to TACKLE interactions with customers, HOOK them in, and RELEASE them as lifelong park patrons.

Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019

Wednesday, November 6

Thursday, November 7

11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

8:00 – 8:30 a.m.

Lunch / Student Lunch

Registration / Continental Breakfast

Sponsored by Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation

8:30 – 11:00 a.m.

OFF-SITE INSTITUTE: North Mississippi Regional Park, Minneapolis

how they involved families with children with disabilities to help improve and enhance the accessibility of nature play that includes loose parts play.

Sponsored by SRF Consulting Group Limited to 50 attendees. Buses depart near registration desk lobby.

Exhibit Hall Wednesday, November 6 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

• Visit with more than 70 exhibitors • Gain new ideas related to the newest technology, products, services, equipment and programs • Hors d’oeuvres, refreshments, and prizes Please take time to visit the exhibit hall vendors as their contributions are integral to the conference’s success.

Networking Event Wednesday, November 6 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.

GARDEN CITY ROOM

Challenge your fellow recreation professionals in a game-show themed social with Sassy Lassy Events! Enjoy networking, an opportunity to play a few games, delicious appetizers and a cash bar for your choice of beverage.

Sponsored by Musco Sports-Lighting

Nature Play: You Build It; They Will Come!

Guss Boomer, Parks Senior Planner, Ramsey County; Ken Grieshaber, PLA, Principal, SRF Consulting Group, Inc.; Lonnie Hebl, Planner, Olmsted County; Marcie Oltman, Director, Tamarack Nature Center, Ramsey County; Crystal Passi, Landscape Architect, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board; MaryLynn Pulscher, Environmental Education Manager, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board; Karlin Ziegler, Park Superintendent, Olmsted County Nature play can happen almost anywhere!

The best places for nature play are already framed by nature: big trees, fallen branches, random boulders, and decaying logs.

However, scrubby edges of natural areas, marginal land, and even turf grass with a couple canopy trees can be transformed into engaging nature play spaces. All our park systems have such areas, and it is time to consider their potential for supporting children’s play without major physical changes or enhancements.

Participants will be transported to North Mississippi Regional Park to tour the newly developed nature play areas designed and built by Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. Learn first-hand from the staff team that dreamed up, designed, coordinated, and installed the nature play elements.

Staff will share how they used play design principles to help create the play area; and

This session includes a panel of professionals from SRF Consulting Group, Brooklyn Park and Ramsey County’s nature centers, and parks and forestry teams to share how they incorporated nature play into their systems. Participants will learn the decision-making process of how other agencies determined the location and built nature play areas in their systems.

Attendees will also have an opportunity to ask questions of park operations staff maintaining these sites as to material selection and maintenance practices to ensure long-term sustainability and safety. *This session will benefit park planners, park operations, and forestry staff.

Session Outcomes: • Learn how Minneapolis included the core principles and key design elements for North Mississippi Regional Park Nature Play Area • Hear from forestry and parks crew members how they supported the development of the nature play areas in their park system • Evaluate site selection for nature play • Use ADA standards in your nature play design • Learn what resources are available to assist with designing nature play areas • Hear how park operations staff maintain these sites, including material selection and maintenance practices to ensure longterm sustainability and safety.

Summer2019 2019•• MINNESOTA MINNESOTA Recreation Recreation and and Parks Parks 37 37 Summer

Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019

Thursday, November 7 8:30 – 9:45 a.m.

Equity in Recreation Programming ROOM: HARVEST A

Gina Stokes, Recreation Program Supervisor, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Explore Saint Paul Parks and Recreation’s efforts on providing equitable fee-based programming at recreation centers located in areas of high poverty with the City of Saint Paul. Participants will learn how to analyze registration data, and improve fee-based programming and programming gaps all through using an equity lens.

Developing Eagle Scout Projects for Your Parks ROOM: HARVEST B

Eric Thompson, Programming Supervisor, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation; Dave Arola, Training & Advancement Director, Northern Star Council BSA; Bob Bassett, Mustang District Advancement Chair, Northern Star Council BSA We all have parks that could use a little extra tender loving care. Collaborating with a Boy Scout on an Eagle Scout project can be a rewarding experience for both your agency and the scout. Attend this session and learn some tips on developing successful Eagle projects for your park system.

If Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees, Where Does It Come From?

ROOM: HARVEST C

Nate Burkett, City of Shakopee; Laurie Hokkanen, City of Plymouth; Matt Podhradsky, City of Chaska; Marty Walsh, Carver County Parks; James Wisker, Minnehaha Creek Watershed District One of the biggest challenges faced by public parks today is determining how to pay for their construction and maintenance. Despite frequently being cited as one of the best aspects of our communities, the competition for funding parks can be fierce. Is the solution to build and lease a restaurant to generate revenue, or work with the watershed district to access the Outdoor Heritage Fund and the county’s bonding authority, or maybe solicit private donations to demonstrate project support before asking for public dollars? The answer almost always means bringing together a wide variety of tools, including: grants, donations, user fees, lease revenue, bonds, tax increment financing (TIF), and more to get big projects across the finish line.

Canoemobile: Creating Future Generations of Minnesota’s Stewards ROOM: TACK A

Mary Mallinger, Youth Programs Manager, Wilderness Inquiry; Christine Tomlinson, Youth Programs Manager, Wilderness Inquiry Wilderness Inquiry’s Canoemobile program has been engaging thousands of local youth and community members across the state of Minnesota for over a decade.

Canoemobile is a “floating classroom” that brings students onto local waterways in 24foot Voyageur canoes to learn about science, history, geography, and culture. These experiences are often enriched by support of partner organizations such as the National Park Service, local park and recreation departments, and others. Canoemobile is a unique and impactful way for students and residents to connect with their local waterways and parks.

38 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Incredible Edible Parks ROOM: TACK B

Scott Berggren, Recreation Services Manager, City of Crystal; Lisa Abernathy, Recreation Supervisor, City of St. Louis Park; Joan James, A Backyard Farm As cities, we provide access to most of our parks and open spaces. But what if that also included access to healthy, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs? Learn how you can bring the theme of “locally grown” to your parks and programs. In this session you will hear two success stories, as well as hear from an organization that helps people and places create backyard farms.

Improving Asset Management Inside and Out ROOM: CAPTAIN’S

Jamie Birkett, Sales Engineer, Cartegraph; Sonya Rippe, Project Coordinator, City of Plymouth From managing facilities to tracking trees, running a high-performance park is no small feat. How can you leverage data and technology to prevent the most common asset management mistakes? Learn how the City of Plymouth Parks and Forestry team has streamlined the management of their assets, work, and requests.

Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019

Thursday, November 7 10:00 – 11:15 a.m.

Creating Inclusive Park Spaces for Trans and Gender Nonconforming Folks ROOM: TACK A

Alex Jackson Nelson, Trainer and Consultant, Considerit Communications; Elise Niedermeier, ADA Coordinator/Community Access and Outreach Coordinator, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board In this session, attendees will learn to develop comprehensive gender inclusion policies that cover built space, programmatic access, and workforce policies. The presenters also address ways in which this work aligns with and supports racial equity and disability justice.

Bees to Buds: Experimenting with Urban Micro-Farming

session, we will discuss the data around the benefits of sports, strategies for parks and recreation to create free and reduced play, and funding opportunities for new programs.

ROOM: HARVEST C

Lydia Boysen, Recreation Coordinator, City of Winona Parks and Recreation From building a 50-plot, raised-bed community garden, to keeping bees and tapping trees, the Winona Parks and Recreation Department is exploring the world of urban micro-farming. Our community is eating it up (quite literally) and we’re excited to share our experiences with you. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, share their own personal experiences, and brainstorm additional ways recreation professionals can tap into the exciting world of micro-farming!

Optimizing Economic and Financial Outcomes in Your Parks and Recreation Assets ROOM: TACK B

Jason Clement, Founder, The Sports Facilities Management Parks and recreation assets produce significant economic, social, and community benefits. Understanding these benefits - including parks’ impact on property values, health care costs, crime rates, and community engagement - and where you have opportunities to optimize your assets are key steps in evaluating the value of your parks and recreation assets. This session will describe how to apply proven strategies to evaluate and optimize your current park and recreation assets.

Young Professional and Student Network (YPSN) Workshop - LIVE

Income Disparity in Youth Sports: Why Creating Equity and Inclusion for Physical Activity is Critically Important for the Future of Health & Society

ROOM: HARVEST B

ROOM: TACK A

ROOM: CAPTAIN’S

Get information in a fast-paced setting on four top park and recreation topics that are essential for young professionals and students: opportunities, relationships, strengths/weaknesses, and mentorship.

The session includes rotating topics every 15 minutes in a roundtable setting, or if attendees are enjoying one particular topic, continue discussion at that table! Join us for a dynamic, engaging, and informational workshop. Bring your questions, business cards, and a positive attitude. Learn more about the network and how you can be involved.

Evan Eleff, COO and Partner, The Sports Facilities Advisory

Courtney John, Community Recreation Specialist, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation; John Halderman, Community Recreation Specialist, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation

Partner Power

A multitude of factors in society, including the defunding of school sports and cultural shifts have led to never-before-seen levels of inactivity, obesity, and overweight children in America. When children have limited access to sport and physical education in schools, our community parks and recreation assets need to step up and step in to create free and reduced play so that future generations develop physical literacy, inactivity rates drop, and children reap the benefits associated (including higher test scores, less risky behavior, and lower healthcare costs). In this

Harness the power of community partnerships to drive program participation. We’ll examine the three levels of partnership, identify some uncommon sources for new collaborations, and demonstrate partnership structures that are beneficial for both parties.

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Lunch

Young Professional and Student Network (YPSN) Resource Center Stop by the YPSN Resource Center during the exhibit hall to receive coaching, tools, and resources to be successful in your job search. Professionals will be on-site to critique resumes, provide guidance to effectively answer supplemental questions, conduct mock interviews, and offer general advice and networking to help young applicants gain employment in the recreation field.

Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 39

Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019

Thursday, November 7 12:30 – 2:45 p.m.

OFF-SITE INSTITUTE: Westwood Hills Nature Center and The ROC, St. Louis Park Limited to 50 attendees. Buses depart near registration desk lobby.

We invite you to tour the new interpretive center at Westwood Hills Nature Center. This $12 million project is in the middle of construction, so you will get a behind-the-scenes tour while construction is still taking place.

This 13,500 square-foot facility will contain three multipurpose rooms, separate exhibit space, accessible viewing of raptors, a conference room, and lounges for community gathering spaces. This facility will be the only commercial building with the goal of zero energy in Minnesota.

The City of St. Louis Park’s Recreation Outdoor Center (The ROC) has recreational opportunities for everyone in every season, from outdoor ice to turf to large dry floor space. Come check out what The ROC has to offer all under one roof!

• October to March - ice skating, hockey, and large special events • March to May - baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, cricket, and other activities • May to October - large community events, concerts, weddings, theatrical performances, business expos, wrestling, and roller derby.

The ROC is truly the crown jewel of multi-use outdoor venues by how it morphs through the seasons. The facility consists of an NHL-size refrigerated ice sheet (200’ x 85’), artificial turf, bleacher seating for 450, four dedicated team rooms, officials’ locker room, resurfacer garage, 43-stall parking lot, outdoor fire place, and storage space. The $8.5 million project was constructed in 2015-2016 by the City of St. Louis Park in partnership with the St. Louis Park Hockey Association.

This facility has received the notorious MRPA Tommy Johnson Award, the IAA Award of Excellence for Fabric Frame Supported Structures, and is a nominee for the International Association of Sports and Leisure Facilities IAKS Award.

Come visit this architectural marvel!

40 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

12:30 – 2:45 p.m.

OFF-SITE INSTITUTE: The Loppet/Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Trailhead Limited to 50 attendees. Buses depart near registration desk lobby.

The Trailhead is a new Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board welcome center in the heart of Theodore Wirth Regional Park. The park is a 759-acre park whose activities range from Nordic skiing and mountain biking to golf and hiking, and is located in both the cities of Minneapolis and Golden Valley. The Trailhead is a jumping-off place for these activities and more.

The Trailhead was developed through a publicprivate venture with the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and the Loppet Foundation, and includes a beautiful gathering space connecting to the outdoors, recreation resources, Cajun Twist restaurant, an Adventure Shop for rentals and merchandise, Velofix bike and ski repair shop, and a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ kiosk.

Not only is The Trailhead a place that you can prepare for your adventures, it is located at the beginning of many ski and bike trails as well as a par 3 golf course.

Come visit us and learn about how the coordination of these many activities as well as the cooperation of the many entities involved have brought us this amazing place we call The Trailhead.

Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019

Thursday, November 7 12:45 – 2:00 p.m.

Community Engagement: Youth Work Through an Equity Lens ROOM: HARVEST A

Steve Randall, Tim Simmons, Sharina Rodgers, and Marcell Thompson; Community Youth Workers, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Explore Saint Paul Parks and Recreation’s efforts toward providing quality youth work training for front line recreation staff through proven techniques and strategies for effective youth work. Develop communication skills for developing relationships between staff and youth.

Niche Sports: The Opportunities that Await Your Community ROOM: HARVEST B

Recreational Sports Commission and Athletic Management Group Are you racking your brain thinking about the core sports? Join us for a sneak peek into the exciting world of alternative sports. This interactive session will feature a representative from each one of the many niche sports that may be flying under your radar. We will also discuss a wider array of niche sports and provide a Q&A period. Who knows, they may just fit into your community!

Managing Wildlife in Minnesota Parks

Calculating the Economic and Financial Outcomes in Your Parks and Recreation Assets

ROOM: HARVEST C

Jonathan Hicks, Professor of Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Services, Minnesota State University, Mankato

ROOM: TACK B

This session will include a high-energy, interactive discussion of wildlife as a recreational resource. Participants will discuss best practice management techniques, and explore strategies to live and play alongside our wild neighbors. There will be time to ask questions and discuss personal experiences and challenges with park wildlife.

In recent years, multiple studies have concluded that parks and recreation assets directly impact home values, health outcomes, community engagement, and tax collections. Park assets contribute to increased activity levels, directly impacting health and social outcomes in ways that positively impact municipal budgets. However, most municipalities lack clarity on the actual value of their parks and recreation assets. This session will provide insight into a new approach to calculating the value of parks and recreation assets and programs.

Evan Eleff, COO & Partner, The Sports Facilities Advisory

Interview Skills – Learning How to Tell Your Best Story!

ROOM: TACK A

Learn from the professionals who do the interviewing! Identify your story, and learn how to mold that story into creative and memorable interview answers that will get you to the next step in your career. This session will help people in all stages of their career prepare for their next interview.

Standing Out as a Department in Your Community: Part 1 ROOM: CAPTAIN’S

Katy Keller, Marketing Coordinator, Indian Trail, North Carolina Parks and Recreation; John Stutzman, Recreation Supervisor, City of Golden Valley Looking to WOW your community? Let’s make IT happen! In this session, we will discuss ways we have transformed our departments to be innovative and trendsetting in all aspects of offerings. Sit in for simple practices that can impact your community while making your department stand out and gain recognition.

Take Advantage of Great Networking Opportunities!

The conference schedule allows for on-your-own networking Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Recommended activities and venues will be emailed to attendees prior to the conference start.

Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 41

Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019

Thursday Speed Sessions 2:15 – 3:00 p.m.

Making IT Work for YOU!

Meet the Research Bike

ROOM: HARVEST A

ROOM: TACK A

Adam Larson, Director of Information Technology Services, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board

Andrew Oftedal, Research and Policy Specialist, Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota; Bob Bierscheid, President, Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota

In this interactive session, attendees will learn how technology departments operate and how to engage them as partners to make your technology projects successful. Learn from real life examples, how to create effective IT project proposals (that the IT department will like) and have the opportunity to ask an IT professional about existing projects.

Be Prepared When Your Asphalt Pavement Needs Repair ROOM: HARVEST B

The Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota developed the “Research Bike” in 2018 to collect data on bicycle trails. The Research Bike is equipped with sensors and cameras, rates the roughness of each trail, and takes photos for Google Street View. This presentation will discuss how the Research Bike was developed, how it has been used, and future applications.

Beyond the Open House: Engaging Your Community in Parks and Recreation Initiatives

Jason Krause, Key Accounts Manager, Bituminous Roadways, Inc.; Kellie Erickson, Business Development Representative, Gordian

ROOM: TACK B

Managing asphalt pavement might not be in your job description now, but it may one day. Attendees will learn how to identify distresses in your asphalt surfaces and what maintenance techniques are best. Discover the convenience of partnering with a Sourcewell contracted vendor.

With more emphasis being placed on engaging community stakeholders in decision-making for implementing park and recreation improvements, identifying the best techniques to engage a broad demographic of user groups will lead to consensus-driven results for projects. Hear about several case studies which achieved highly successful outcomes with their communities.

Introducing and/or Improving the Sport of Disc Golf in Our Parks ROOM: HARVEST C

Derek Tonn, Founder and CEO, Mapformation, LLC Originally created in the 1970s by “Steady” Ed Headrick (Disc Golf Association), the sport of disc golf has been one of the fastest growing recreational activities across North America, Europe, and other portions of the planet in recent decades. Disc golf can be played by participants, either alone or as part of larger groups, for a fraction of the cost of many other sports. Courses can be installed on property with great elevation change and/or heavily-wooded property that may be unsuitable for other activities. This session will discuss ideas and best practices for trying to develop the best overall experience for residents and visitors alike, as it relates to enjoying disc golf in our city, county, and regional parks.

42 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Ken Grieshaber, Principal, SRF Consulting Group, Inc.

Standing Out as a Department in Your Community: Part 2 ROOM: CAPTAIN’S

Katy Keller, Marketing Coordinator, Indian Trail, North Carolina Parks and Recreation Want to reach your entire community about event information, upcoming programs, or getting more involvement? It starts with engagement. Attend a session that will show you how to build a relationship through social media outlets with tips, tricks, and latest trends that will have your insights skyrocketing!

Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019

Thursday, November 7 3:15 – 4:30 p.m.

Afternoon Keynote

Jessie Diggins: Learn from an Olympic Champion ROOM: CARRIAGE HALL Photo: CSEP

Sponsored by WSB & Associates Jessie Diggins is known for her uncanny ability to go deep into the “pain cave” as she calls it – which she clearly demonstrated to seal the deal for her 2018 gold medal. She talks about Flow State (being in ‘the zone’) and how to create it in business and life in general.

Despite her incredible individual effort, she speaks passionately, in fact most passionately, about teamwork and how to identify and focus individual strengths for the greater good of the team.

Jessie was crosscountry skiing before she could walk, hitching a ride in her dad’s backpack, pulling his hair and telling him to “Mush!” The apple didn’t fall far from the tree, and by three-years-old she was on skis of her own, sharing dad’s passion for the sport. Little did they know at the time that a ferocious, ground-breaking competitor was in the making. Jessie is known for two things: being able to “go deep into the pain cave,” ski-speak for pushing herself to the edge and beyond; and doing it with style, with a smile and some sparkles. Jessie began the team’s tradition of painting their faces on race day and finishing it up with a dusting of sparkles.

From Afton, Minnesota, with a background in dance, swimming and soccer, Jessie was a nine-time Junior National Champion on skis.

Within the senior ranks, she’s responsible for numerous American firsts: • At 20, she was the youngest woman to finish top-5 in a World Cup distance race.

• In 2013, at just 21, she became the youngest American World Champion and the first U.S. Woman to win a championship title (with teammate Kikkan Randall).

• At 22, she won silver at the U-23 World Championships, and went on to finish 8th at the Olympic Games in Sochi.

• During the 2015 season she ended a 33year drought in championship-level distance medals for Team USA by winning the silver medal at the World Championships in 10km skate.

• In 2015-16 she became the first American woman to win a modern distance World Cup in the 5km skate individual race.

• In 2016-17 she won five World Cup medals and added both silver and bronze medals at the 2017 World Championships.

• In 2018, she and teammate Kikkan Randall became the first-ever American crosscountry skiers to win Olympic gold.

Friday, November 8 8:00 – 8:30 a.m.

Registration / Continental Breakfast

8:30 – 9:45 a.m.

Closing Keynote

Minnesota State Demographer Susan Brower: An Inside Look at Minnesota Demographics ROOM: GARDEN CITY

Susan Brower is the Minnesota State Demographer and directs the Minnesota State Demographic Center. Susan became the state demographer in February, 2012. In that capacity, she

travels the state talking with Minnesotans about the new social and economic realities that are brought about by recent demographic shifts. Susan’s work applies an understanding of demographic trends to changes in a range of areas including the state’s economy and workforce, education, health, immigration, and rural population changes.

Minnesota is undergoing a dramatic shift in its age structure as the immense Baby Boomer generation continues to enter the 65-and-older group. Their aging will serve to move our state’s median age

higher, transforming our workplaces, communities, and systems along the way.

State Demographer Susan Brower will characterize Minnesota’s aging trend and discuss impacts and implications in the areas of health, disability, volunteerism, the state budget, the future labor force, and beyond.

Susan joined the State Demographic Center after working as a researcher on the Minnesota Compass project at Wilder Research in Saint Paul. Prior to that, she worked at the Population Studies Center at the University of Michigan.

Susan earned her Ph.D. in sociology at the University of Michigan, specializing in demography and family sociology. She also holds a master’s degree in public policy from Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota.

Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 43

Conference Sessions & Schedule 2019

Friday, November 8

Recreation, Parks, and Modern Aging

MRPF New Initiative Grants – Locally Grown Innovation

10:00 – 11:15 a.m.

ROOM: HARVEST C

ROOM: HARVEST B

Including People with Disabilities in Recreation Programming

Lydia Morken, Age-Friendly Communities Consultant, Morken Consulting; Kris Orluck, Retired Senior Coordinator, Maple Grove Parks and Recreation

Lisa Abernathy, Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation Board of Trustees

ROOM: HARVEST A

The population is aging, and that’s not a bad thing. Age-friendly cities help ensure the growing number of older residents can live active and independent lives. Learn about the role of recreation and parks in this work and how some communities are approaching it.

Sarah Thorsen, CTRS, Therapeutic Recreation and Inclusion Coordinator, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Learn how to make your programming more inclusive of people with various disabilities through discussion and hands-on activities designed to be inclusive of all people in your programs. Identify what you are currently doing to provide inclusive programs, and learn activities and strategies for creating a more inclusive program for all community members.

Animal Events Roundtable ROOM: HARVEST B

Speakers: Seasoned MRPA Professionals Pet events are a pawfect oppawtunity to attract those fur families in your community. Come hear from a roundtable of experts how to design and implement a successful pet event in your community. Discuss how to get the event started, learn about resources to make it happen, and how others have been successful in the process. Anything is paw-sible!

Directors’ Panel ROOM: TACK A

Seasoned Directors of City and County Agencies Did you know there are many home-grown directors across the state? Join us for a panel discussion sharing Minnesota parks and recreation journeys through the eyes and experiences of a number of directors. These directors worked for their hometowns, made a career of parks and recreation from their first job, or have provided great contributions to MRPA. The moderated panel will discuss career path, MRPA involvement, how being a director has changed over the years, and more.

Bring questions and receive answers from experience.

Innovation comes from within! Attendees will discuss how local agencies have locally “grown” new program/event ideas to help enrich their communities. Whether new to their communities or new to the field, we can all learn a thing or two from others’ experiences and grow our own innovative opportunities for the communities we serve.

Take away a new idea or concept that you can “grow” in your community, and discover the New Initiative Grant opportunity offered for MRPF members!

Financing Major Developments Through Local Sales Tax ROOM: HARVEST C

Tom Schmitz, Director, City of New Ulm Park and Recreation

11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

In 2000 and 2016, the City of New Ulm voters approved a 0.5 percent local sales tax to fund new developments and improvements to recreational facilities. For both years, the sales tax was authorized by the State Legislature.

This session will describe how to use local sales tax funding to finance large construction/ development projects for your agency. One or more other agencies will also be presenting their success stories.

Marking Our Parks: Navigating the Name Game

Authentic Engagement with Underserved Communities

ROOM: HARVEST A

ROOM: TACK A

Sue McGrath, Program Administrator, Memorials and Tributes Program, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board

Ying Lee, Community Outreach and Access Coordinator, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board; Abdirahman Mukhtar, Outreach and Access Coordinator, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board

Session facilitators, representing agencies of diverse size and type, will tackle the topics of donations associated with sponsorships, naming, memorials, and tributes. Philosophies, policies, and procedures will be shared, along with the numerous experiences that can benefit attendees as they consider starting, refining (or re-booting) a program for their agency.

44 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is committed to equitable access and use of parks and recreation. Authentic outreach and engagement is foundational to that commitment. In this session, MPRB outreach coordinators will share best practices from the field on authentic engagement and collaborations with underserved and underrepresented communities.

MRPA Conference Registration Form 2019 Early Bird Deadline: August 30, 2019 • Register online at mnrpa.org

First Name_________________________________________ Last Name_________________________________________________________ Title______________________________________________ Organization______________________________________________________ Address___________________________________________ City______________________________State______________ Zip___________ Phone____________________________________________ Fax______________________________________________________________ Email_____________________________________________ Website__________________________________________________________ Special Accommodations______________________________________________________________________________________________ Payment Method:

Check Enclosed

MRPA Preferred Method

Check Requested

Paid Online with VISA or MASTERCARD

MRPA MEMBER

DELEGATES

NON-MEMBER

Until Aug. 30

After Aug. 30

Until Aug. 30

After Aug. 30

Full Conference Package Tuesday Pre-Conference Institute – Friday

$370

$425

$550

$605

Conference Package Wednesday – Friday

$350

$395

$505

$550

Daily – Wednesday

$195

$245

$245

$295

Daily – Thursday

$245

$295

$295

$335

Daily – Friday

$85

$135

$140

$190

Continuing Education Units (CEU)

$10

$10

$20

$20

RETIREES & STUDENTS

WITH MEAL

WITHOUT MEAL

Volunteer Package (Wed –Fri)

$130

$150

Free

Free

Non-Volunteer Package (Wed – Fri)

$160

$180

$40

$60

$75

$85

$25

$30

Non-Volunteer Daily Rate Wednesday Thursday

Friday

TOTAL

TOTAL

TOTAL ENCLOSED OFF-SITE INSTITUTES (OPTIONAL) Thursday, November 7 (8:30 – 11 a.m.)

North Mississippi Regional Park (Nature Play)

Thursday, November 7 (12:30 – 2:45 p.m.)

St. Louis Park Nature Center / The ROC

Thursday, November 7 (12:30 – 2:45 p.m.)

Minneapolis Loppet Trailhead

Conference Food and Beverage Please note any food allergies. We have tried to incorporate healthy eating throughout the menu selections.

Meals included for each day: • Wednesday – continental breakfast, lunch, exhibit hall hors d’oeuvres • Thursday – continental breakfast, lunch • Friday – continental breakfast Cancellation Policy Cancellations accepted through September 19, minus a $50 handling fee. No refunds will be given after this date. Alternate attendees are permitted. Registration fees are used toward educational sessions and meals.

Hotel Accomodations Embassy Suites by Hilton 6300 Earle Brown Drive Brooklyn Center, MN 55430 Hotel and conference venue are connected via enclosed walkway.

Room rate: $135/night plus tax For reservations: MRPA has a reserved room block available.

Call 763.560.2700 by October 4, 2019 to make your hotel reservation – ask for the MRPA rate.

Please submit payment to:

MRPA, 200 Charles Street NE, Fridley, MN 55432 Fax: 763.571.5204 Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 45

Earle and Gwen Brown with some of their animals.

A Minnesota Tradition

Dating Back More Than a Century Permission to Reprint from the Earle Brown Heritage Center

The Earle Brown Heritage Center has a history dating back to the late 1800s.

Captain John Martin was a member of a prominent Vermont family and steamboat captain who founded Brooklyn Farm. Martin was influential in the early development and growth of Minneapolis through lumber and flour milling. He led a six-mill merger in 1891 to create Northwestern Consolidated Milling Company – the world’s second-largest flour milling company at that time. Captain Martin also held interests in two railroads and held stocks early in First National Bank of Minneapolis.

Martin’s daughter, Jean, married Cyrus Brown in 1873. Their son, Earle, was born in 1879. Jean was made famous by becoming the first woman in Minnesota to be granted a divorce. Captain Martin was then responsible for raising and educating his grandson.

As a young man, Earle Brown spent weekends and vacation times working on his grandfather’s farm. Following

the death of his mother in 1901 and his grandfather in 1905, Earle Brown became the sole heir to the farm. During World War I, he loaned the farm’s grounds to the U.S. government to be used as a pilot training field. Brown Field became Minnesota’s first commercial airstrip In 1920 during prohibition, Brown was urged to take the role of sheriff to “clean up the county” and clear bootlegging, as the current staff was under indictment.

In 1929, Brown was also asked to form the Minnesota State Highway Patrol. By 1932, he was a successful farmer and businessman and was famous throughout the state. He was unanimously chosen as the state’s Republican candidate for governor against incumbent Floyd B. Olson, but was defeated (as many Republicans were) after the election of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. After his loss, he devoted his time to his family’s business and community affairs. The farm became a popular location for Boy Scout trips, pancake breakfasts, and summer picnics. At 41 years old, Brown married

Gwen Foster. After her death in 1947, Brown donated the Brooklyn Center Farm to the University of Minnesota. Brown continued to live on the Farm until his death at the age of 83.

In 1963, the University of Minnesota sold the property for development. In 1985, the City of Brooklyn Center purchased the property with the goal of restoring and maintaining the property’s historic importance. Restoration and new construction began in 1989 and was completed and reopened in 1990 with the name Earle Brown Heritage Center.

The 2019 MRPA Annual Conference will be held at this historic site November 5-8.

46 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

2019 MRPA CORPORATE MEMBERS Anderson-Johnson Association, Inc. ajainc.net

ISG is-grp.com

Pernsteiner Creative pernsteiner.com

Becker Arena Products beckerarena.com

Johnson Fitness (formerly 2nd Wind Excercise Equipment)

Play & Park Structures playandpark.com

Bituminous Roadways Inc. bitroads.com

johnsonfitness.com

Landscape Structures playlsi.com

Push Pedal Pull Exercise Equipment pushpedalpull.com RJM Construction rjmconstruction.com

Bolton & Menk, Inc. bolton-menk.com

LHB, Inc. lhbcorp.com

Broadway Awards broadwayawards.net

Life Floor lifefloor.com

Safety First Playground Surfacing LLC safetyfirstplayground.com

Busch Architects, Inc. busch-architects.com

McKinstry mckinstry.com

Sport Court North sportcourtmn.com

CBS Squared cbssquared.com

Midwest Playscapes Inc midwestplayscapes.com

Sports Technology Inc. sportstechnologyinc.com

Minneapolis Northwest Convention and Visitors Bureau mplsnw.com

SRF Consulting Group Inc. srfconsulting.com

Commercial Recreation Specialists crs4rec.com Custom Builders Inc. custombuildersmn.com Custom Manufacturing Inc. inwave.com Fahrner Asphalt Sealers LLC fahrnerasphalt.com Finnegan Playground Adventures LLC fcacompany.com

Minnesota Partnerships mnpartnerships.com Minnesota Twins twinsbaseball.com Minnesota Wisconsin Playground Inc. mnwiplay.com MOTI Sports, Inc. motisports.com

Flagship Recreation LLC flagshipplay.com

MSA Professional Services, Inc. msa-ps.com

FlyOver America flyover-america.com

MTI Distributing mtidistributing.com

Hiway Federal Credit Union hiway.org

Musco Sports-Lighting musco.com

Hoisington Koegler Group Inc. hkgi.com Horizon Commercial Pool Supply horizonpoolsupply.com

Northland Recreation, LLC northlandrec.com Nystrom Publishing nystrompublishing.com Oertel Architects, Ltd. oertelarchitects.com

St. Croix Recreation stcroixrec.com Stantec stantec.com TKDA tkda.com Ultimate Playgrounds ultimateplaygrounds.com USAquatics Inc. usaquaticsinc.com USTA Northern northern.usta.com Webber Recreational Design webberrec.com Wild Mountain wildmountain.com WSB & Associates, Inc. wsbeng.com Women in Leisure Services (WILS) womeninleisureservices.com

mnwiplay.com | 800.622.5425

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! Summer 2019 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 47

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

New Riverlife Park along Wisconsin River in Wausau, Wisconsin

• Inclusive/Accessible Playgrounds • Play Surfacing • Inspections by CPSI • Relocation/Repair • Exercise/Strength Training • Sport Courts • Shade/Shelter/ Site Furnishings

www.UltimatePlaygrounds.com (612) 460-PLAY • Andrew@UltimatePlaygrounds.com Based in Prior Lake, MN