MRPA Minnesota Magazine - Winter 2021

MINNESOTA RECREATION & PARKS VOLUME 16 | ISSUE 1 • WINTER 2021

Rising to

the Challenge How Minnesota agencies have met community needs during the COVID-19 crisis

ALSO INSIDE:

• Robert Piram Regional Trail • MRPA Race & Equity Advisory Committee is Formed • Corporate Milestones www.mnrpa.org

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MINNESOTA RECREATION & 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 W. Stutzman, Golden Valley Advertising Sales & Design Todd Pernsteiner Pernsteiner Creative Group todd@pernsteiner.com 952.841.1111 MRPA Board of Directors 2021 President: Chuck Stifter, Maple Grove President-Elect: Ross Demant, Otsego Past President: Chris Esser Secretary: Chris Fleck, Eagan Treasurer: Ben Boldt, Rochester RSC Chair: Jerome Krieger, Blaine East Metro: Lake Johnson, Roseville East Metro: Alex McKinney, Washington County East Metro: Reed Smidt, Woodbury Northeast Region: Tonya Love, Elk River Northwest Region: Marcia Larson, Bemidji Southern Region: Paul Peanasky, Faribault West Metro: Scott Berggren, Crystal West Metro: Nicole Gorman, Edina West Metro: Annie Olson, Minneapolis This magazine is the official quarterly publication of Minnesota Recreation and Park Association and is provided complimentary to members as part of their MRPA membership. The editorial board encourages the submission of articles and photos for publication by agency members.

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

Articles and Advertising Deadlines Spring 2021 Issue............................ March 5, 2021 Summer 2021 issue...........................May 22, 2021 Fall 2021 issue...................... September 15, 2021 Winter 2022 issue.................. December 23, 2021 MRPA reserves the right to approve all submitted advertising in MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks magazine. All requests for advertising should be made to Todd Pernsteiner, Account Manager, at 952.841.1111 or todd@pernsteiner.com.

Register today!

UPCOMING EVENTS ion MRPA Virtual Educat ation rida Parks and Recre

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WATCH WWW.MNRPA.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION & UPDATES.

TABLE OF CONTENTS From the Board President.......................... 4 MRPA in Action........................................... 6 Someone to Know: Jacob Andersen........ 6 MRPA Mentorship Program....................... 6 MRPA Corporate Members....................... 7 Keeping Up............................................ 8, 10 Race and Equity Advisory Committee....12 MRPA Magazine Photo Contest...............13

New Robert Piram Regional Trail....... 14-17 Tips for Choosing a Master’s Program...19 Experiential Education Program............. 20 Recreation Management Program....23-24 Engaging Duluth Residents..................... 27 Creative Programming........................28-36 In it for the Long Haul.......................... 37-45 Corporate Connections........................... 46

ON THE COVER: City of Duluth Parks and Recreation

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Winter 2021 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 3

FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT

By Chris Esser, MRPA President

The Future Looks Bright!

As we turn the calendar page to 2021, or more likely throw the 2020 version in the dumpster and set it on fire, we can all take a deep breath and know that brighter days are ahead. Vaccinations have arrived, most agencies continue to weather the budget storm, and new government leadership has arrived nationally and for some locally. Heck, we are even planning for an in-person annual conference next fall! Optimism continues to grow and even though we remain mostly distant from one another, it was heartwarming to see all of the smiling faces looking back at me virtually during the MRPA Annual General Meeting on January 8, 2021.

Speaking of the Annual General Meeting, what a great day! In another first, we conducted our yearly gathering as an association virtually and were able to check the boxes of our year in review, awards, network and board recognition, new board member induction, and look ahead to this year. A special welcome to our 2021 MRPA President Chuck Stifter, City of Maple Grove, who is ready and able to clean up the mess I left from 2020. My thanks to Ross Demant and Otsego Parks and Recreation Department for hosting us again at the Prairie Center for the virtual meeting. No matter if the meeting is in-person or remote, the MRPA staff is always working behind the scenes to ensure all the materials and awards are ready and that the day goes smoothly.

My gratitude to Bethani, Deb and Michelle for all they do.

A huge thank you to the outgoing members of the MRPA Board of Directors who concluded their terms of service to our association at the end of 2020: Past President Tom Schmitz, City of New Ulm Treasurer Dale McCamish, City of Rochester West Metro Region Nate Rosa, City of St. Louis Park We welcome our 2021 Board of Directors members that were inducted or continued their elected two-year term of service:

President-Elect Ross Demant, City of Otsego Treasurer Ben Boldt, City of Rochester East Metro Region Reed Smidt, City of Woodbury Northeast Region Tonya Love, City of Elk River Northwest Region Marcia Larson, City of Bemidji

My cheering section: wife Liz and daughters Zoe and Emma

West Metro Region Nicole Gorman, City of Edina RSC Chair Jerome Krieger, City of Blaine We thank the outgoing and incoming members of the Board of Directors for their leadership of our association at its highest level. If you are interested and would like to know more about serving on the Board of Directors in the future, I encourage you consider the opportunity as we need a diverse board representative of our entire membership from all levels, backgrounds, and specialties of the parks and recreation profession. Reach out to the MRPA office or any board member to find out more!

This winter edition of the MRPA magazine celebrates new initiatives and the creativity that parks and recreation professionals and agencies have shown during the global pandemic. Way to think outside the box!

In another important and relevant topic, we are finally ready to announce the Race and Equity Advisory Committee to our membership. This group was formed in early 2020 and has been working towards a strategic plan to provide resources and education to begin the journey to move our association and profession forward.

Speaking of education, there are also articles regarding online degrees and future MRPA trainings and workshops. Finally, I would

4 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org 4 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

like to congratulate Dolf Moon, City of Hutchinson and Diane Moe, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, on their retirements, each serving 30 years in our profession.

As I conclude my final article, it has been my heartfelt honor and humbling privilege to serve as your president in 2020. Thank you to the membership, my fellow board members, and the MRPA staff for the opportunity and unwavering support. You deserve so much more than a single clap!

After experiencing job loss this year, many of my fellow MRPA professionals and friends have overwhelmingly reached out to me with encouragement and expressions of what I mean to them. I would like to turn that around and say, you all have no idea what you sincerely mean to me. My parks and recreation friends are my best friends. I will never be able to express my gratitude for your friendship and support in good times and bad.

Celebrate your accomplishments and resiliency in 2020, continue to focus on self-care, and stay connected to the MRPA family. As we chart the path to the new normal, remember parks and recreation is a profession that we are fortunate to be a part of year-round, in unselfish service to others, with the energy and leadership to positively impact our world including being agents of change. Never take what you do for granted.

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MRPA IN ACTION

MRPA Facility Management Series The MRPA Facility Management Series was originally scheduled in the spring of 2020, but had to be re-scheduled due to the pandemic. Nineteen members were able to attend this in-person professional development series in November 2020. This program provided a focused examination of facility planning, development, and operations.

MRPA extends a huge thank you to Brooklyn Park, Elk River, Shoreview, and St. Louis Park for hosting and giving tours of their facilities. This facility series was also made possible because of our sponsors’ generous support: Landscape Structures / Flagship Recreation, Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation, and RJM Construction.

MRPA Mentorship Program

By Meredith Lawrence, City of Mendota Heights The MRPA Mentorship Program, sponsored by the MRPA Young Professional and Student Network and the Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation, was formed to help park and recreation students and professionals grow professionally in the field through meaningful connections.

The program enables students and career professionals to be paired with an experienced or distinguished professional for an experience that will last a lifetime.

The mentorship program committee reviewed 40 applications and were able to produce 20 pairs for the program’s first year. A special thank you to mentorship committee members John Stutzman, Meredith Lawrence, Jenna Smith, and Jessica Christensen Buck.

Outdoor Recreation Grant Deadline is March 31 The Minnesota DNR Outdoor Recreation grant’s goal is to increase and enhance outdoor recreation facilities in local and community parks throughout the state. The program provides matching grants to local units of government for up to 50-percent of the cost of acquisition, development and/or redevelopment of local parks and recreation areas.

Applicants are eligible to receive more than one grant.

Download the application and learn more at www.bit.ly/ MNDNRgrants

6 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW:

Jacob Andersen

Jacob Andersen became interested in parks and recreation while he was a freshman at the University of Iowa. “I started out as an intramural sport official and progressed to facility supervisor for a couple of facilities within the recreation department,” says Andersen, recreation supervisor for Brooklyn Center Parks and Recreation. “That progressed to working parttime for the City of Iowa City and that’s when I decided parks and recreation was something I wanted to make a career out of. I enjoyed providing activities and facilities that offer the public ways to have fun, learn, and form new relationships.”

Andersen’s career in recreation has been diverse and has influenced every part of his life. “Working in small town Iowa, taught me that the job is not a typical nine to five job,” he says. “Overseeing every aspect of recreation ranging from the community center, parks, youth and adult sports leagues, and community swimming pool.”

His career then took him to the Las Vegas area and Boulder City, Nev. where he oversaw the aquatic division.

That is also where he met his wife. “Recreation then brought me back to the Midwest and to the Twin Cities,” he adds. “One could say my recreation career has influenced my entire life and brought me experiences that will always stick with me.”

Andersen became involved with MRPA as soon as he moved to Minnesota. He was involved with the state associations in Iowa and Nevada. “I have found the state associations have a wealth of knowledge,” he says.

“The networking between recreation professionals is an important part of my career. When I moved to the Twin Cities area, I knew that I wanted to become involved with MRPA. It was even brought up in my interview with the City of Brooklyn Center. My experience with MRPA, staff, and all of the other professionals involved has been fantastic.”

Andersen adds, “Being the programming network chair during the pandemic has been challenging, but an awesome experience due to the collaboration and communication that has happened. I hope to continue to be active in MRPA and would recommend that if anyone is thinking about getting more involved, DO IT!” 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.

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MINNESOTA Recreation Volume 14,

and

Issue 3 • Fall

2019

2019

RECOGNIZIN ORGANIZATIONS G MINNESOTA AGENCIES AND FOR OUTSTANDIN G ACHIEVEMENTS Also inside:

Referendums Help Improve Communitie s www.mnrpa.or

g

Feature editorial expd available. In osure quir for details. e

Be seen by Minnesota Recreation & Park Professionals!

PUBLICATION

DEADLINE

Spring 2021 Issue • Hiring & Training • Aquatic Partnerships • Corporate Connections: ARCHITECTURE & ENGINEERING

Mails: April

Summer 2021 Issue

MINNESOTA RECREATION & PARKS magazine mails directly to more than 850 MRPA members and partners. The hyper-targeted publication features industry-relevant content focusing on parks, recreational programming, facilities, athletics, leagues, natural resources, and special events. It’s a valuable resource read by municipal staff throughout Minnesota. It is also available online.

• 2021 Annual Conference Guide • Sustainability & Going Green • Turf, Field, Grounds & Court Care • Money Saving Tips & Hints • Pets in Parks • Corporate Connections: ATHLETICS & ENTERTAINMENT

MRPA’s magazine provides an opportunity to consistently market directly to the people who need your products and expertise.

• Agency Awards of Excellence • Group Fitness Programs • Therapeutic Recreation & ADA • Grant Programs • Parks & Natural Resources • Corporate Connections: SERVICE PROVIDERS

Contact Todd Pernsteiner to learn about value-added packages and to reserve your space: (952) 841-1111 or todd@pernsteiner.com.

Ad deadline: March 5

Ad deadline: May 14 Mails: July

Fall 2021 Issue Ad deadline: August 20 Mails: October

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING MRPA!

*Content subject to change, inquire for details.

Winter 2021 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 7

KEEPING UP

Dolf Moon Retires after 40 years in Parks and Recreation Dolf Moon recently retired as the director of Hutchinson Parks Recreation and Community Education. During his 40-year career, Moon was extremely involved in Minnesota Recreation and Park Association (MRPA).

He was the Clifton E. French Distinguished Service Award recipient in 2017. He served on the Board of Directors as the northwest region member from 2013 through 2018. He was also on the Board from 1995 through 2000, and served as Board president in 1998.

Moon was also very involved in the Recreational Sports Commission (RSC). He served as chair of the RSC from 1995 to 1997, and was an at-large member from 1989 to 1994, and again from 2001 to 2006. He also served as the MRPA Board nomination and elections chair and was on the communications committee in 1998. He was part of several annual conference committees, and the Minnesota USSSA Hall of Fame selection committee for multiple years. He was inducted into the Minnesota USSSA Hall of Fame in 2000.

“During my service with MRPA I have had the opportunity to work with many outstanding professionals around the state of Minnesota.” says Moon. “The friendships formed during our work together are some of the strongest I have.”

Moon’s first job was at the YMCA in Albert Lea where he was in charge of fitness, youth and adult recreational programs. In 1981, he was hired as the assistant parks and recreation director/arena manager for the City of New Ulm. In 1989, Moon and his family moved to Hutchinson where he served as the director of parks and recreation. In 1993, the job was expanded to include community education.

Looking back, Moon says his most notable contribution to Hutchinson is the Hutchinson light traffic project. “In 1993, the City joined in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Transportation and the Finnish National Road Administration to initiate the design of a pilot community for walking, bicycling and transit,” says Moon. “The Hutchinson project addressed a wide range of issues such as land use, funding, planning, policy, education and enforcement. This generational project started with an action plan document that is still in use today. I have had the good fortune to work with an extremely talented professional staff and a community that has provided excellent support for Hutchinson Parks, Recreation and Community Education.”

Dolf, his wife Patti, and Hudson (the wonder dog) plan to spend time camping, biking and playing with their three grandchildren.

Get involved with Minnesota Recreation & Park Foundation! Let your membership work for you!

The Minnesota Recreation & Park Foundation (MRPF) is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Minnesota by supporting recreation and parks through education, networking opportunities, programming grants, student and professional continuing education scholarships, and providing support to the Minnesota Recreation and Park Association.

Our primary objective is to support the education, innovation, and training of all recreation professionals and students.

Become a member of MRPF and enjoy these benefits: • Annual

donation 501(c)(3) tax benefit fees for MRPF sponsored trainings, programs & events • Access to Program Initiative Grants • Access to Education Grants • Student Scholarships • Professional Scholarships • Networking Events member rates • Fundraising Events member rates • Conference & Workshop/ Training Financial Assistance • Reduced

Visit www.mnrpf.org to learn more and to become a member.

8 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

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KEEPING UP

Diane Moe Retires after 30 years in Parks and Recreation Diane Moe recently retired after being in the parks and recreation profession for 30 years. “I started working with Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MRPB) in 1990 as a summer lifeguard before being hired full-time in September 1990,” says Moe. “I worked at Hiawatha School, Matthews Park and Folwell Park.”

Moe adds, “In June 1996, I began working for Bloomington Parks and Recreation where I was encouraged to become involved with MRPA. I also worked at Abbott Northwestern Hospital, as a lifeguard at Wasie Pool from 1983-2019. In June 2005, I returned to MPRB and was assigned to Loring Park, Whittier Park, and Pershing

Park. In April 2020, I transferred to the MRPB golf courses and retired from there.”

Moe was also involved in Women In Leisure Services (WILS) for 30 years.

“I was on their Board for many years and served as president twice,” she adds.

While working at Bloomington Parks and Recreation, Moe became an active member of the MRPA Aquatics Section and served on numerous aquatics and annual conferences. “I was honored to receive a MRPA Award of Merit in 2000,” says Moe. “I also served as secretary on the MRPA Board in 2004 and 2005. MRPA has been a huge part of my life for so many years.”

Diane Moe with her pals Otis and Rio

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Winter 2021 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 11

Learn. Grow. EVOLVE. MRPA Race and Equity Advisory Committee Ready for Action The Minnesota Recreation and Park Association is excited to announce its newly formed Race and Equity Advisory Committee! This team began work in 2020 to acknowledge the current climate regarding race and equity, in response to a demonstrated need within our communities, and the overall importance parks and recreation professionals and organizations play in making strides in this area. We know we need to do better.

and commit to collaborative action now and continually into our future.

One of the main goals for the Race and Equity Advisory Committee is to assist the MRPA, its members, and its member agencies to deliver services through the lens of race and equity. With the help of this committee, the MRPA will solidify its commitment to addressing systemic racism and inequities which persist throughout Minnesota, using park and recreation agencies as agents of change. Park and recreation programs, facilities, and services are meant to serve communities as a whole. It makes sense to prioritize equity in all our efforts, as we serve all people regardless of their skin color, age, socioeconomic status, or ability. The MRPA Board recognizes that we have an opportunity to seize this moment in history

• The

The Race and Equity Advisory Committee has begun identifying short and long-term goals including: • Training

for the MRPA Board of Directors, staff, and networks

• Providing

education and resources for our membership and member agencies formation of affinity groups within our association

• Integrating

race and equity into MRPA’s mission and vision

• Normalizing

conversations involving race

The Race and Equity Advisory Committee understands that our journey will take time to move the needle towards systemic change, but we must start now. Thank you for the important role that you play in making our association and our workplaces more equitable. We look forward to providing our membership opportunities to become involved in this effort and to providing more information on this initiative.

Race and Equity Advisory Committee

Chris Esser, Past MRPA President

Annie Olson, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board

Jon Oyanagi, Retired MRPA Member

12 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Kori Shingles, City of St. Louis Park

Jenna Smith, City of Bloomington

Jason West, City of St. Louis Park

Corky Wiseman, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board

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2021 MRPA MINNESOTA MAGA ZINE PHOTO ALBUM

Submit your favorite photos!

ONE RANDOM PHOTO CONTRIBUTOR WILL WIN A

2021 CONFERENCE REGISTRATION! Photo Categories: • Parks & Playgrounds • Recreation & Programming • Trails, Nature & Conservation Grab your camera or cell phone! We want to see your best programming and site photos. One lucky MRPA member’s entry will be drawn at random to win a 2021 MRPA Annual Conference registration. Plus, a panel of professional photographers will review all photos submitted and choose three photos from each category to be featured in the Summer 2021 issue of MRPA’s MINNESOTA magazine.

Photos taken between January 1, 2020 and April 15, 2021 are eligible to be submitted. Questions? Contact Todd Pernsteiner at todd@pernsteiner.com or (952) 841-1111.

Entries are due by April 15, 2021. Winner will be notified by April 30, 2021.

See rules and submission info at www.bit.ly/MRPAPhotoAlbum Winter 2021 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 13

TRAIL BLAZER

NEW REGIONAL TRAIL MAKES KEY CONNECTIONS, HONORS LEGACY OF VISIONARY PUBLIC LAND CHAMPION ROBERT PIRAM

By Liz McDonald, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation

14 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

A long-anticipated bicycle and pedestrian trail segment near the Mississippi River between Saint Paul and South St. Paul is now open to the public, filling several important gaps in the region’s trail system. Like the man whose legacy it honors, the impact of the new 3.7 mile Robert Piram Regional Trail is significant, spanning to adjacent neighborhoods to the surrounding parks and trails and beyond.

Robert Piram Regional Trail stretches from Harriet Island Regional Park in Saint Paul to Kaposia Landing Park in South St. Paul, connecting the surrounding neighborhoods to the Mississippi River, improving connections to downtown Saint Paul, and enhancing neighborhood livability. The trail also completes an important section of the Mississippi River Trail (MRT) system, a multistate transportation and recreation trail that begins at the headwaters of the Mississippi River and extends through 10 states, ending at the Gulf of Mexico.

The new trail is named in honor of Robert Piram, whose 38 year career with the City of Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Department included 26 years as directorsuperintendent and left a remarkable legacy on Robert Piram Saint Paul’s public lands and watershed. Among his many significant accomplishments as director-superintendent, Robert Piram led the fight to preserve land along the Mississippi River and was instrumental in developing the regional parks system.

THE NEW TRAIL IS NAMED IN HONOR OF ROBERT PIRAM, WHOSE 38 YEAR CAREER WITH THE CITY OF SAINT PAUL PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT INCLUDED 26 YEARS AS DIRECTOR-SUPERINTENDENT AND LEFT A REMARKABLE LEGACY ON SAINT PAUL’S PUBLIC LANDS AND WATERSHED. Winter 2021 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 15

“My father cared deeply about the conservation of this land and worked hard, along with his team, to preserve it for future generations to enjoy,” said Susie Odegard, daughter of Robert Piram. “This area was one of my father’s favorites and our family is thrilled to see his legacy honored through the naming of Robert Piram Regional Trail.”

During his career with the City of Saint Paul, Robert Piram also streamlined operations of the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory and worked to have legislation passed guaranteeing admission to the iconic Saint Paul facility would always remain free to the public. In retirement, he volunteered with the Capitol Regional Watershed District, where he served 13 years as president and manager and guided the completion of lake management plans for Como, McCarrons, Loeb and Crosby lakes. Robert Piram was also a longtime member of MRPA and served on the MRPA Board of Directors as an east metro representative from 1989 to 1990.

“Robert Piram developed the ambitious, innovative framework for what is today a fully developed system of parks and trails along the river,” said Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Director

Mike Hahm. “He was a visionary leader during the establishment of the Twin Cities metropolitan regional parks system and the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. This stretch of trail completes a key piece of his original vision, so to see it carry his name is a fitting tribute to his legacy.”

Construction on Robert Piram Regional Trail began in September 2019 following a collaborative effort many years in the making.

Early plans for the trail were included in the City of Saint Paul’s Great River Passage Master Plan, a comprehensive framework for creating vibrancy in the city’s 3,500 acres of parkland along the river, adopted by the Saint Paul City Council in 2013. A connection from Harriet Island to South Saint Paul had also been identified within the Dakota County 2030 Greenway Vision and multiple planning documents from the National Park Service, Metro Area Trails and MnDOT. The Robert Piram Regional Trail project was a team effort led by the City of Saint Paul and Dakota County and achieved through extensive planning, community engagement, and collaboration across multiple public agencies and private properties.

“ROBERT PIRAM DEVELOPED THE AMBITIOUS, INNOVATIVE FRAMEWORK FOR WHAT IS TODAY A FULLY DEVELOPED SYSTEM OF PARKS AND TRAILS ALONG THE RIVER,” SAID SAINT PAUL PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR MIKE HAHM. 16 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

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Robert Piram Regional Trail

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Ever wonder how a place gets its name? Many spots nearby reflect Saint Paul’s history. Discover the namesakes of people who shaped the city over time.

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What’s in a Name?

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Images: 106 Group

Map of Saint Paul, 1924

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Paul Verret Walk

As president of The Saint Paul Foundation (1982-2003), Verret worked to revitalize Paul Verret the Mississippi riverfront, develop literacy programs, and create strong neighborhoods throughout Saint Paul.

F lood A rea a

Wigington Pavilion

Tom Kelly

Kelley’s Landing A natural gathering place along the Mississippi River, Kelly’s Landing celebrates the late Tom Kelly, who worked to preserve critical river habitat.

You Are Here

Years of thoughtful planning efforts planted the seeds for the area’s regional park system.

Robert Piram spent his career preserving land and supporting environmental programs along the Mississippi River.

You Are Here

Robert Piram

Sm

This Modern-style building from the Works Progress Administration era carries the namesake of its architect, Clarence Wigington. As the first black draftsmen hired by Saint Paul, Wigington designed several structures from 1915 to 1945.

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Clarence Wigington

Harriet Island

The story begins with Dr. Justus Ohage, a local surgeon born in 1839. As Saint Paul’s first public health officer, Ohage led efforts to improve trash disposal and vaccinations. He donated the island to the city in 1900. The park was then named after Harriet Bishop, the city’s first public school teacher and a polarizing figure in social reform.

Dr. Justus Ohage

Harriet Bishop

Close the Floodgates Here in the lowlands of Saint Paul, a constant threat of flood was on the horizon. To prevent destruction of homes and farmland, the city constructed the flood wall and earthen embankment, or levee, in 1967. Before this time, snow melt and heavy rain regularly overflowed the banks of the Mississippi, Minnesota, and St. Croix rivers. In April 1965, a record-setting flood crested at 26.01 feet—about three feet below the top of the levee on which you stand.

Levee The levee system in Saint Paul narrows the river channel, forcing water to flow faster downstream—and not seep into the city.

The levee protects about 500 acres in the southwest side of Saint Paul.

Cooling off at Harriet Island’s swimming beach, ca. 1905.

High water frequently damaged poor neighborhoods in West St. Paul, shown in this scene from 1881.

GREAT RIVER PASSAGE

ROBERT PIRAM REGIONAL TRAIL

HI-01

Robert Piram Trail

GREAT RIVER PASSAGE

ROBERT PIRAM REGIONAL TRAIL

HI-02

Interpretive panels along the Robert Piram Trail educate users on the history of the area.

Development of the trail was carried out by the City of Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Department and the Dakota County Transportation Department. Design and engineering was led by TKDA and construction by Max Steininger, Inc. “The Robert Piram Regional Trail is significant for so many reasons,” said Project Manager and Saint Paul Landscape Architect Mary Norton. “In addition to providing important connections between multiple popular regional trails in Saint

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Robert Piram Trail

“THE ROBERT PIRAM REGIONAL TRAIL IS SIGNIFICANT FOR SO MANY REASONS,” SAID MARY NORTON. “IN ADDITION TO PROVIDING IMPORTANT CONNECTIONS BETWEEN MULTIPLE POPULAR REGIONAL TRAILS IN SAINT PAUL AND DAKOTA COUNTY, THE NEW TRAIL SEGMENT BRINGS PEOPLE THOUGH UNIQUE AREAS THAT WERE PREVIOUSLY INACCESSIBLE.

Paul and Dakota County, the new trail segment brings people though unique areas that were previously inaccessible. You can watch planes take off as you pass the St. Paul Downtown Airport or spot migratory birds and other wildlife as you cross boardwalk bridges through a wetland marsh.”

The trail is now substantially complete and open for public use, and a ceremonial ribbon cutting is scheduled to take place in Spring 2021.

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Contact us at (952) 496‐2651 or online at www.mnroadways.com Your Paving Specialists Since 1953 Winter 2021 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 17

IS NOW THE TIME TO GO

BACK-TO-SCHOOL FOR AN ADVANCED DEGREE 18 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

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TIPS FOR CHOOSING A MASTER’s PROGRAM Carrie Anderson, CPRP, Roseville Parks and Recreation

So you’ve decided to get your master’s degree, congratulations! Whether you are looking to expand your knowledge base, looking for that next step in your career, or you are just looking for that degree to check the box; deciding to go for a master’s degree is a big step. You are about to commit a lot of time, effort, and brain cells to enhance your resume and yourself.

In 2014, I decided that I was going to be a “box checker” and wanted to earn a master’s degree. I graduated in 2017 with an executive public administrative master’s degree from the University of South Dakota. Here are a few things I learned on my journey towards an online master’s degree.

Online vs. In Person As we have seen with the COVID pandemic, some people prefer working from home, while others crave interaction with other humans at the office. We all have different preferences and choosing whether to attend classes in person or online is another personal preference.

For me, the online option was a no-brainer: • Online

programs gave me more program and school choices

Mastering Time Management

There are a variety of master’s degree programs on the menu for parks and recreation professionals and they can all be excellent choices depending in your goals and preferences. Recreation management, public administration, leadership, business, marketing, finance, the list can go on. I earned my undergrad in recreation and leisure studies; therefore, I wanted to expand my knowledge and chose public administration as my program focus.

What most people don’t know about being a full-time employee and a grad student, is that you also earn an imaginary master of time management degree. Life doesn’t stop just because you are enrolled in grad school. My experience entailed a lot of sacrifices, early mornings, and late nights of reading, writing, and more reading.

There’s also a lot of discussion boards, citing references, research, and papers to be written. With all the juggling going on in work, life, and school, I became pretty good at time management. I took one or two classes a semester and that pace worked well for me.

Choosing an Online School A lot goes into choosing a grad school. What program do you want a master’s degree in? Have you or do you plan to take the Graduation Record Examination (GRE)? How much is tuition? Does the program end with a capstone or thesis? Is the school a brick and mortar school or online only? The University of South Dakota checked off my boxes: no GRE needed, affordable, classes applied to my career path and interests, flexible capstone project, a recognized university, and offered a public administrative program for professionals.

Financial Support

•I

despise driving at night/leaving the house, especially in the winter

• After

interacting with humans all day, I had my fill (I’m an introvert).

•I

Master’s Degree Programs

felt confident in my self-motivation to meet deadlines

Make a plan on how you plan to pay for grad school. Student loans may not be available for part-time grad school, but there are other options. Check with your employer for tuition assistance. I was fortunate to have my grad school paid almost completely through my employer. If your budget is tight, many grad schools have flexible plans to spread out your schooling over a number of years.

FROM Box Checker to Lifelong learner As I mentioned before, I enrolled in grad school as more of a “box checker.”

I wanted the piece of paper to say I have a master’s. It turns out, grad school impacted me as a professional more than I expected. I applied what I was learning to my everyday responsibilities at work and it paid off. I became a better recreation professional by broadening my understanding of concepts and philosophies. I started to see the bigger picture and inspired me to think more about what I wanted to accomplish in my career. Continuing education, no matter the platform or source, is important in my personal and professional growth.

Taking the step to enroll in an online master’s program in 2014 was the right time and choice for me. Although it was a time and energy commitment, the online option to earn a Master’s made it an attainable and flexible way to expand my education and grow professionally.

What most people don’t know about being a full-time employee and a grad student, is that you also earn an imaginary Master of Time Management degree.

Winter 2021 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 19

Master of Science in Experiential Education program at Minnesota State University, Mankato

By Julie A. Carlson, EdD, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Who is it for?

The program is “adult-learner focused” for working professionals or fulltime graduate students who are interested in exploring their passions for leading/ teaching/facilitating experiential learning in formal or non-formal education-related settings. Our graduates are employed in the United States and around the globe as prekindergarten through grade 12 school and university faculty and staff, program operators or owners, corporate trainers, and leaders in non-profit agencies and privately operated organizations.

What is it?

Experiential education is a holistic, interdisciplinary approach to learning that integrates direct experience with focused reflection for developing new knowledge, relevant life skills, and socially-conscious dispositions. The mission of the master’s in experiential education program is to prepare and renew professionals for effectively and ethically leading, teaching, and facilitating experiential learning for all learners - all ages, all abilities, all cultures, all identities.

When will it be offered?

The first cohort will kick off in June 2021 and continue for five terms, culminating in December 2022. Each summer term will include a four-day required residency symposium (as pandemic conditions allow); each fall and spring term will include a three-day optional residency symposium. Each term entails registering for two online courses.

Experiential Education is a holistic, interdisciplinary approach to learning that integrates direct experience with focused reflection for developing new knowledge, relevant life skills, and socially-conscious dispositions.

20 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Where will the limited residency symposiums be offered?

The symposiums will be held at MSU’s Edina satellite site on the western edge of Minneapolis at 7700 France Avenue.

This site is close to the I-494 south loop and is conveniently accessible from the airport and bus routes. MSU’s area has recently renovated comfortable classrooms, computer labs, and collaborative work spaces. The building hosts a highly-rated cafeteria. Hotels, restaurants, grocery stores, and green spaces are within walking distance.

For more information, visit: https://link. mnsu.edu/exed or email Julie Carlson, coordinator of master’s in experiential education, at julie.carlson@mnsu.edu or via phone at 507-389-5441.

Photo ©Minnesota State University, Mankato

The Master of Science in experiential education program at Minnesota State University, Mankato (MSU), was established in 1972 and is the oldest such program in the U.S. It has operated over the decades as a flexible program that combines face-to-face core theory courses with independent learning courses. We are pleased to announce our plans to add an online/limited residency cohort option for the program starting in summer 2021.

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Master’s Program in Recreation Management University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Online Degrees

By Kate Evans, PhD, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UWL) found that their traditional oncampus master’s program in recreation management was not accessible to working professionals. There was a significant need to provide access to students that needed to continue full-time employment, had family obligations and could not relocate.

Moving on this need, faculty in the department of recreation management and therapeutic recreation developed a fully online master of science program in recreation management – professional development in collaboration with UWL Extended Learning. The program, geared toward working recreation professionals, focuses on advanced management skills that recreation professionals need to advance in their careers.

“This degree serves the needs of recreation professionals who are not in a position to leave their careers to come back to school, but who want or need to advance their education to move forward in their career,” Kate Evans, Ph.D., academic director explains. “We created the program so they can continue to work and use their professional experiences while learning.”

Students progress through the program in a cohort with other learners, often with other recreation professionals from across the country. This cohort model offers collaborative learning opportunities consisting of projects, discussions and research-based

Students progress through the program in a cohort with other learners, often with other recreation professionals from across the country.

content and best practices in the field of recreation. Each fall, a new cohort of students begin coursework consisting of 30 credits. Throughout these courses, students are encouraged to integrate their professional experiences and needs of their organizations into the course assignments where possible.

In the culminating capstone course, students integrate their skills and knowledge learned across the program into an actionable plan for addressing an issue in recreation service delivery.

Students are provided the option to present their capstone project at UWL, connect with their instructors and peers, and participate in the university’s commencement ceremony.

Designed for working professionals who balance competing obligations, the program will: • Allow

time for work and family

• Build

on prior education and existing experience in the field

• Focus

on management skills required for attaining and advancing in recreation management positions Continues on page 24…

Winter 2021 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 23

The outcomes of the program are to create leaders in the parks and recreation industry that will: • Advance

social justice

• Provide

recreation access to diverse populations and understand how the experiences of those populations influence leisure and leisure service delivery

• Understand

and implement pricing strategies including price fairness and price perceptions

• Understand

the influence of technology and societal changes on leisure and the role of leisure in modern society

• Collect

and analyze data and utilize management strategies for applying and communicating evaluation results

• Apply

principles of group dynamics and functioning to staff/team development and trainings, organizational leadership, facilitation, board development and assessment/evaluation strategies

• Prepare

for visitors and make strategic decisions with both residents and visitors in mind

• Explore

alternative funding models including fund development, grants and capital campaigns as well as collaborative approaches including partnerships, outsourcing and privatization

There is no GRE requirement. A culminating capstone project is required instead of a thesis, and for those working in a recreation management role, the capstone project can be completed and implemented in conjunction with their current job position.

Additional highlights of the program include: • Advance

(from start to finish) with the same group of aspiring and current recreation professionals

• Network

with others from a variety of recreation settings

• Complete

30 credits in six semesters/

two years UWL’s strong recreation management faculty, high placement record and affordable tuition make the master of science in recreation managementprofessional development a program of choice for those interested in entering and advancing in the field of recreation management. For more information on the program, join the March 9, 2021 information session or visit www.uwlax. edu/grad/recreation-management-pd/

UWL’s strong recreation management faculty, high placement record and affordable tuition make the Master of Science in Recreation Management-Professional Development a program of choice for those interested in entering and advancing in the field of recreation management.

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Rising to the Challenge How Minnesota agencies have met community needs during the COVID-19 crisis

26 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Engaging Duluth Residents During COVID-19 By, Alicia Watts, Assitant Manager, City of Duluth Parks and Recreation

Last year started like any other, we were planning our spring programming as usual when March arrived. Never in my career, would I have anticipated we’d be closing playgrounds and encouraging people not to gather in our parks. That’s not something that I imagine we, as park and recreation professionals, joined the field for. While the pandemic has certainly thrown us all a curveball this year, there is still so much for us and our community to be proud of.

Early on, our team pivoted quickly, initiated many passive recreation activities, and focused on how we could continue to engage with the community virtually. We increased our social media attention and got to work creating more than 46 informational videos including “how-tos” and virtual tours of our parks.

We planned family-friendly, self-guided activities that are now a mainstay in our recreation delivery. Our recreation team designed programs such as the Egg Hunt, Trivia Trail, the Joke Trail, Halloween Hunt, and the Turkey Search along both popular and lesser-known parks and trails in a dual effort to expand our community’s awareness of family-friendly locations they may not have visited before.

We collaborated with the library’s story stroll program and brought Play

Gym outside and into the parks. Play Gym caters to our youngest parks and recreation users—pre-school and younger—to enjoy age and sizeappropriate rec equipment with their adult caregiver present. While typically held indoors, we brought it outdoors and adapted its delivery to safely allow this program to pop up in parks across the City.

Early on in the pandemic, social distancing on our trails was a challenge.

A combination of few places to go for recreation and entertainment coupled with the annual spring freeze-thaw cycle meant we needed to find more destinations for people to enjoy and not damage the natural surface trails.

Ultimately, we closed about 10 miles of gravel and paved roads for walking and biking. This was a big hit, and we coupled some of the previously mentioned Trivia Trail activities with these closures.

One additional programmatic feature added to trails in Duluth for winter 2021 is the pilot of a new Snowshoe Stompers program. Volunteers adopt a portion of closed road or a designated trail route and commit to snowshoeing it after each snowfall to create more packed surfaces that will support winter walking options. The program opened for volunteers on December 10, 2020

and all volunteer openings were filled in a day. In total there are roughly 10 miles of trails adopted into this program.

Since launching, we’ve also noted more social media chatter regarding folks “stomping” other trails for both their own recreation and to help pay it forward for walking and biking based on the type of trail.

In a year that pushed our team to deliver recreation in so many new ways, we’re really proud of how well adaptations were made to deliver quality recreation in our community. We will continue to evaluate all of our pandemic-related adaptions and determine which may be contenders for continuing into the future even post-pandemic.

Winter 2021 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 27

Rising to the Challenge Creative Programming During COVID-19

By Bethani Gerhard, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

Programming during the pandemic has created a variety of unique events and exciting adventures in which communities may participate. Some original programs and events could continue virtually, while others were completely new to encourage residents to enjoy the great outdoors.

Buffalo The City of Buffalo provided safe opportunities for people to still be a part of the community.

“We felt it was important for residents to feel some sort of normalcy during the pandemic,” says Lee Ryan, parks and recreation director for the City of Buffalo.

“During the winter months, we made a Fat Tire and Snowshoe Trail in an undeveloped piece of property for residents,” he adds. “The trails were temporary, inexpensive and an easy addition to our system that serves a different group of users,” says Lee. “We also built a Free Sled Library for our main sliding hill.”

The City of Buffalo was also able to provide 11 concerts in the park this summer following regulations at the time. “We did the best we could and it was a huge success,” says Lee. “It was really appreciated by the residents that attended.”

Edina Edina Parks and Recreation sponsored a “Hunt for the Yeti” program. Eddie the Yeti lives in Edina and he has been on the hunt for some of his friends, which were miniwooden yetis. This month-long program featured hunts in a different park.

“Each week, participants would receive the riddle along with a photo of Eddie the Yeti in the park,” says Nicole Gorman, recreation supervisor for the City of Edina. “They would solve the riddle to figure out what park in Edina the clue was referring to.

Then they would have to go help Eddie find his friends.”

There was an “Eddie was here” sign left in the park where the photo was taken, so participants knew they were in the right place to hunt. Once the participants found a friend, they had to submit a selfie and email it to the department to claim their prize.

“We had 371 registrations,” adds Gorman.

“Registration was free, but was required to win prizes. Prizes included Yeti products: tumblers, mugs, bottles and coolers.”

In addition, there was also an interactive “Hunt for the Yeti” Facebook group that people could join. The program was made possible through CARES grant dollars received through Three Rivers Park District.

28 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

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Rising to the Challenge Moorhead Moorhead Parks and Recreation focused on allowing their community to be active and outdoors during COVID. Events just had to be modified to allow social distancing.

“COVID-19 may have altered our programs, but it did not slow us down,” says Trevor Magnuson, recreation coordinator for Moorhead Parks and Recreation. “This summer we saw Moorhead become a hub for geocaching. We worked closely with one on the Moorhead Parks and Recreation Board members - an avid ‘cacher’ that helped create three Adventure Labs. These labs highlighted our parks, the Red River, and the history of Moorhead.”

Partnering with a local organization called Nature of the North, Moorhead Parks and Recreation is hosting topic-based ski and snowshoe excursions, equipment demonstrations, and winter survival workshops.

30 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

According to Magnuson, as the seasons turned and COVID-19 still lingered, they wanted to continue to get the Moorhead community to embrace the outdoors. “We are excited about new winter activities that will take place through the next few months,” he adds. “Partnering with a local organization called Nature of the North, we will be hosting topic-based ski and snowshoe excursions, equipment demonstrations, and winter survival workshops.”

Moorhead Parks and Recreation continues to adapt and offer activities that fit the guidelines that are in place. For more information, contact Trevor Magnuson at trevor.magnuson@ ci.moorhead.mn.us or visit www.moorheadparks.com.

Rising to the Challenge New Brighton In an effort to give families a fun and safe activity to do over Thanksgiving break, New Brighton Parks and Recreation put together a “gnome hunt” at one of their city parks. There were 15 garden gnomes hidden along trails in the park.

“Families were encouraged to hunt for all 15 gnomes, take a selfie with their favorite one, and post a picture on Facebook with the #newbrightongnomes for the chance to win a prize,” says Maria Larson, recreation supervisor for New Brighton Parks and Recreation. “The gnomes were of various sizes hidden in brush, high in branches, low in crevices of trees, across a creek, and under a bridge. The gnomes were secured with hooks, chains, or zip ties.”

According to Larson, the event was a hit. Many families had to complete the hunt more than once to find all 15 gnomes and were pleasantly surprised by how challenging it was.

“An announcement, along with a map, were posted on Facebook the Tuesday before Thanksgiving,” adds Larson. “By 8 a.m. the next morning there were already families wandering through the park. Over 60 families posted a picture on Facebook, and the park was busy every day throughout Thanksgiving break.”

After multiple requests to have the New Brighton gnomes hidden again, staff decided to place them at a different park over the winter holiday break. They have plans to keep bringing the garden gnomes back throughout the year.

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Winter 2021 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 31

Rising to the Challenge

Northfield During the spring and fall of 2020, Northfield Community Education held adventure races through their parks and various businesses. The City Park Adventure was started and finished any day in May 2020. Residents went on a quest to find coveted checkpoints and clues, leading to them to their final destination.

“City Park Adventure included surprise deviations from the park’s course where participants were asked to complete and record via smartphone a physical challenge before moving on,” according to Melissa Bernhard, recreation coordinator for Northfield Public Schools Community Education. “The first clue was unveiled in their registration confirmation email, sent directly after payment was complete.”

Clue one led participants to a Northfield park where a QR code was located on a half-sheet of laminated paper. After scanning the code, clue two was in a text message on their phone, etc.

32 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

All participants earned a free day pass to the Northfield Outdoor Pool, and the winning person or team of the race won a $50 community services voucher to be used toward a future program.

The City of Northfield also held a race in the fall of 2020 called The A-mazing Northfield Race. The race spanned the entire month of October. “This was a great way for residents to support our local businesses,” says Bernhard. “Family and friends raced to Northfield businesses to complete challenges using clues.”

The first clue was located in participants’ confirmation email sent directly after the payment was received. Depending on the family size and age of the participants, the race may have taken more than one day to complete. The race ended when participants emailed a photo at the final destination. The winning team received a $25 voucher to be used toward a community education class.

Rising to the Challenge Owatonna Owatonna Parks and Recreation had many creative programs and events held this past year. They ranged from virtual contests, escape rooms to 5k and 50k races. Ongoing events included solved mysteries in the park clue game, as well as a find the elf in the park hunt.

“We relied heavily on Facebook this last year to get the word out for many indoor and outdoor events,” says Mary Jo Knudson, recreation specialist for Owatonna Parks and Recreation. “One of our events called Elf in the Parks was actually included in the National Recreation and Park Association email in January.”

The Owatonna Parks and Recreation Facebook page posted “Timmy the Elf” sightings. Families would then post an “elfie” (selfie) of themselves at the location to be entered into a drawing for a prize. The more times families would find the elf sighting, the better your chance of winning they had.

The Park & Rec Clue was also promoted on the Owatonna Parks and Recreation Facebook page. If participants solved the mystery that was posted, they had a chance at winning $100 in Owatonna Chamber dollars. There was a clue guide sheet to help residents solve the “crime.” They could then submit their guess on a form liked to the Facebook post.

Another popular hunt in Owatonna was the Candy Cane Hunt. It took place from December 20-23, 2020. Residents looked for a picture of Santa at various locations in Owatonna on the Facebook page. There were candy canes as the prize to stop by and grab, available until they were gone.

Owatonna Parks and Recreation continues to provide creative programming and events. Visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/owatonnaparkrec for more information.

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Rising to the Challenge Three Rivers Park District

By Alyssa Schauer, Three Rivers Park District

Throughout the pandemic, Three Rivers Park District continues to provide an escape for families and individuals in Hennepin and Scott Counties in a variety of ways. From developing small-group and virtual programs, to “explore at your pace” events and how-to videos for outdoor recreation, Three Rivers is working to connect everyone to the wonder of nature.

Snowshoeing at Cleary Lake Regional Park

The parks and trails in the Park District are open 5 a.m. –10 p.m. daily for anyone wanting to get outside and recharge, play in nature, try a new sport or get together with family and friends. As a natural resources-based park system with thousands of acres of parkland and hundreds of miles of trail, there is plenty of space to spread out and safely enjoy being outside this winter.

Sledding

Hiking

Tromp through the woods on snowshoe!

Trails offer varying difficulty for snowshoers and it’s a great way for the entire family to take in the scenes of a Minnesota winter.

Or try cross-country skiing through a winter wonderland. Three Rivers features 80 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails at various locations for skiers of all skill levels.

There are over 100 miles of winter hiking trails in the Park District with options for short, mid- and long-distance hikes.

Step back in time on a stroll through The Landing-Minnesota River Heritage Park, or discover the work of regional artists along sculpture and poetry trails at Silverwood Park where art and nature collide.

At Coon Rapids Dam, get stellar views of the Mississippi River along the dam walkway at Mississippi Gateway Regional Park or immerse yourself in nature on a wooded hike through French Regional Park. Try birding at Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve and get lake views at Lake Minnetonka Regional Park.

Fat Biking and Mountain Biking Explore the parks on wheels! Winter-only trails for fat biking are located at Baker Park Reserve, Cleary Lake, and Eagle Lake regional parks. Year-round singletrack trails are located at Carver, Elm Creek, Lake Rebecca and Murphy-Hanrehan park reserves. These trails offer a variety of varying terrain and difficulty and are designed for bikers of any skill level.

Race down the humongous sledding hill at Baker Park Reserve or try the sledding hills at French Regional Park, Lowry Nature Center, the Winter Recreation Area at Elm Creek Park Reserve and Richardson Nature Center.

Winter Recreation Opportunities

Winter equipment rentals are available for snowshoes and cross-country skis.

Availability varies by location and advance reservations are required.

Programs and Events in Parks Three Rivers Park District offers monthto-month programming and has adjusted programs and recreation experiences to include more single-household offerings, like guided “bubble” hikes and family snowshoeing adventures under a full moon.

There have also been Pop-up Events organized throughout the parks that offer free activities like geocaching or snowshoeing throughout the day for park visitors to get outside and try a new adventure.

This winter, watch for kicksledding open rink events at Lowry Nature Center in

34 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Carver Park Reserve or Richardson Nature Center in Hyland Lake Park Reserve.

On February 13 and 14, Mississippi Gateway Regional Park is hosting a medallion hunt. Get details and clues on Facebook and drop into the park anytime to search for the medallions.

Mississippi Gateway Regional Park also offers Free Family Fun Days where families can drop in anytime and explore handson activities at their own pace. Some of the topics include winter birding, animal tracking and signs, and Story Strolls in partnership with Hennepin County Library.

Digital Opportunities and Virtual Learning Using social media and applications like Zoom, naturalists and recreation specialists in the Park District have developed an assortment of digital programs and video content that are engaging and educational for all ages. Learn, create and experience the outdoors — all from the comfort of your own home.

Play trivia with your friends during an Online Trivia Night or find balance in a yoga class. Find your artsy side with “take and make” art classes or learn about wildlife in a digital nature class.

Recreation specialists and naturalists have also created a number of videos on YouTube for remote learning. Get tips and tricks for winter biking or learn how to dress in layers for cold weather. Make origami or learn how to tie knots and hitches.

Program opportunities are available each month. Visit ThreeRiversParks.org for the complete list of offerings.

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Rising to the Challenge Wright County Wright County Parks and Recreation had to think creatively in order to offer programs this year. With all their effort, participants were excited to get outside and be a part of their events.

“We hosted a dog sledding event at Robert Ney Regional Park on January 8 and 9,” says Carson Law, recreation specialist for Wright County Parks and Recreation.

“This year we offered a longer ride than usual to make up for the omission of the presentation we normally have. Keeping within the outdoor recreation guidelines, the most people we had at a site was 15. And when waiting for their turn on the sled, they got to hang out with the dogs and learn about dog sledding from the volunteers. Overall, people really enjoyed the program.”

On January 23, Wright County Parks and Recreation held their annual lantern ski event. They placed 40 lanterns around the pond loop at Robert Ney Memorial Park. In a normal year, this event draws over 200 people who rent skis and go on the trails. “With the restrictions this year, our goal was to operate it as close to normal as we could,” adds Law. “We required participants to reserve skis prior to the event, and it was so popular we ended up selling out of our rental gear.

We did not advertise in order to keep numbers down. With all these efforts, plus unfavorable road conditions, we had around 100 people on the trail throughout the three-hour event.”

For more information about programs offered at Wright County Parks visit Facebook.com/wrightparksmn or contact parksandrecreation@co.wright.mn.us

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36 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

In it for the

LONG HAUL THEY SAY AGE IS JUST A NUMBER. When it comes to running and sustaining a successful business, the higher the number, the better.

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, roughly 20% of U.S. small businesses fail within the first year. By the end of their fifth year, roughly 50% have faltered. After 10 years, only around a third of businesses have survived.

Several Minnesota-based, long-term MRPA corporate partners have made it through both the good and bad times – not only surviving, but thriving. We are excited to feature five companies celebrating 40 or more years in 2021. Congratulations and here’s to many more years of success!

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In the late 80s, Hiway expanded its footprint from a small office in the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT) building to a larger main branch on Empire Drive in St. Paul. For many years, Hiway’s field of membership, a multiple common bond, included Mn/DOT, various governmental agencies, schools and underserved areas in and around St. Paul. In 2020, Hiway’s Board of Directors recommended a move back to a state charter. The members voted in favor, allowing the credit union to broaden its field of membership to include those who live, work and worship in the seven-county metro area of the Twin Cities.

THE CREDIT UNION’S BEGINNING WAS VERY MODEST, CONDUCTING BUSINESS OUT OF A CASH BOX, AND NEVER LOSING SIGHT OF ITS PURPOSE: TO HELP MEMBERS SUCCEED FINANCIALLY ALONG THEIR “ROAD OF LIFE.”

Original Hiway cash box.

Groundbreaking ceremony for the first credit-union owned facility on Empire Drive, 1986.

38 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

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Hiway was established nearly 90 years ago by Minnesota Highway Department employees. The credit union’s beginning was very modest, conducting business out of a cash box, and never losing sight of its purpose: to help members succeed financially along their “road of life.”

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Hiway’s main branch on Empire Drive prior to several additions, including a third story.

In addition to its two current branches in St. Paul and Minneapolis, Hiway operates four student-run branches in St. Paul area high schools: Highland Park, Johnson, Como Park and Harding. In June 2020, Hiway broke ground on its first new construction in over 30 years.

The new branch will be in Roseville, in the heart of the thriving business district.

Hiway has a long-standing tradition of philanthropy and to support this, launched Hiway Credit Union Foundation in 2018. The Foundation supports numerous financial literacy programs for underserved youth in addition to student scholarships and teacher grants.

Since inception, the Foundation has donated more than $220,000 to help people in the community.

With you on the road of life.

Though many things in our daily lives have changed, one things remain the same: Hiway is here to provide the financial services, resources and support you need at every stage of life.

Visit us online or call us — we’re available 24/7.

Groundbreaking of Roseville Branch, 2020.

HTG Architects

hiway.org 651.291.1515 • 800.899.5626 Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .ai

Rendering of Roseville Branch opening in 2021.

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Bituminous Roadways team 40 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Today, 75 years later, the company provides asphalt paving and maintenance services to customers throughout the seven-county metro area. Core competencies range from commercial asphalt production, installation, paving, repair and patching to concrete and cracksealing. Projects include roadways and highways, parking lots, trails and pathways, outdoor athletic surfaces, and more. Some of the more notable projects BR has been involved in would be Target Field, Topgolf, Canterbury Park, TCO Performance Center and more recently, the Omni Hotel.

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BR started in 1946 when Al Wendell began residential paving operations out of an asphalt plant in south Minneapolis. As the company grew, Al hired more estimators, including Palmer Peterson in 1958. Al and Palmer became fast friends, one might even say more like father and son. When Al passed away in the late-60s, Palmer bought the company. Palmer’s son, Kent, would be named president of BR in 1996 and would run the company since. The Petersons consider BR a three-generation, familyrun company.

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“I am proud of the company, where we’ve come from and our future,” stated BR CEO/President Kent Peterson. “When I became president of the company in 1996, we had two asphalt plants, now we have four. The company has seen a tremendous amount of growth throughout its history.”

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BITUMINOUS ROADWAYS Bituminous Roadways, Inc. (BR) will celebrate 75 years in business this year. With a humble beginning of a three-man crew in 1946 to more than 200 employees during the 2020 paving season, BR has much to celebrate.

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Bituminous Roadways founder, Al Wendell

Palmer Peterson, 1960

Kent Peterson, 1996

BR working at the new Twins ballpark, 2009

BITUMINOUS ROADWAYS HISTORY: 1946-2021 Al Wendell starts Bituminous Roadways with a 3-man crew

1946

BR installs a third asphalt plant in Shakopee

BR begins to recycle asphalt

1957

1975

A steel batch plant is installed in south Minneapolis

Todd Park, Edina

1980

BR installs a second asphalt plant in Inver Grove Heights

2000

BR installs a fourth asphalt plant in Columbus/Forest Lake

2010

2019

BR moves their corporate headquarters to Mendota Heights

Langton Lake Park, Roseville

2021

BR celebrates 75th anniversary

Riley Lake Park, Eden Prairie

BITUMINOUS ROADWAYS, INC.

PROVIDING SUPERIOR ASPHALT PAVEMENT SOLUTIONS TO PARK AND RECREATION DEPARTMENTS

• Installing asphalt trails, parking lots, and athletic surfaces • Maintaining all types of asphalt pavements • Correcting drainage issues • Repairing concrete VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO REQUEST A CONSULTATION!

651-686-7001 • info@bitroads.com • www.bitroads.com

#MN-TMA-P01-120518-BRI

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The company, which moved to Delano in 1974, began to see steady growth in the late 1970s and 1980s, which led to building expansions, acquisitions, and sales growth at home and

The Landscape Structures team 42 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

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While his thesis only scored him a C+ grade, Steve took his continuous play concept to his first job as a landscape architect specializing in park planning. In 1969, he was assigned a playground design project for the City of Minneapolis where he was able to put his approach in action. His first playground was a success, which lead to more interest. And in early 1971, Steve and Barb obtained a $1,000 loan and incorporated Landscape Structures to design and build playstructures.

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Many people remember the days of the freestanding slides, swings and monkey bars. But in 1967, that idea of playground design advanced to interconnected play components. That revolutionary idea of Landscape Structures’ combining playground founders Steve and Barb King activities is known as the continuous play concept, which was created by Steve King, cofounder and chairman of Delano, Minn.-based Landscape Structures Inc. As his final thesis project at Iowa State University, Steve developed a system that linked play activities together to provide a continuous challenge for children. His premise was that if kids are together on one structure, they’ll learn things that they will use in real life like social and conflict-resolution skills.

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overseas. By the mid-1990s, Landscape Structures had expanded like crazy, which lead Steve and Barb to implement the kaizen approach to lean manufacturing. Kaizen created efficiencies in the manufacturing and business processes, and even the engineering and product development process.

Growth prompted discussion about Landscape Structures’ future, and in 2004 Steve and Barb decided to create an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). And by the end of 2012, employees owned 100-percent of Landscape Structures.

In an effort to provide great play experiences for kids, Landscape Structures has always been committed to innovation. Hedra®, the company’s latest invention, allows kids to safely navigate via their own intuition and curiosity, and invent routes, games and imaginary environments. Landscape Structures has a longstanding commitment to inclusive play and are breaking barriers with the We-Go-Swing™, the first no-transfer inclusive swing that can be integrated into the playground setting. In addition, the use of innovative materials and the development of colors that are truly inspired by nature is changing the world of playgrounds.

As Landscape Structures moves into its 50th year of business, the company is taking time to reflect on the power of play. With the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic, the value of play and recreation is being recognized for its role in health, wellbeing and fun. And that’s why the team at Landscape Structures—nearly 500 employees and the network of more than 200 playground consultants worldwide — are proud to provide unique play opportunities for all ages, abilities and backgrounds.

Because no matter what’s happening in the world, we come back to play.

LANDSCAPE STRUCTURES HISTORY: 1971-2021 Continuous Play Concept created by Steve King

1967 1971

First Sales Representative, Jack Gleason of NuToys Leisure Products, Inc., in Illinois, is hired

First Landscape Structures playground

Early wheelchair transfer module, 1993

1974 1984

Barb and Steve King named Minnesota’s Entrepreneur of the Year

by Ernst and Young, Inc.

1992 1993

First wheelchair transfer system introduced

1993

Landscape Structures is the first U.S. playground equipment manufacturer to achieve ISO 9001 Certification

Steve King serves as founding member of the International Play Equipment Manufacturers Association

1996

1995

1998

Sway Fun® Glider introduced Minnesota Waste Wise Leader award for outstanding waste reduction and recycling efforts

2005

SkyWays® shade product

2016

2019

2020 Landscape Structures breaks barriers by introducing We-Go-Swing™

Landscape Structures becomes 100-percent employee owned

2013

2018 SkyWays by Landscape Structures earns AISC Approved Fabricator

Pat Faust named President of Landscape Structures

2011

2015 Launched SkyWays® Shade Division in Dallas, Texas

Landscape Structures launches employee stock ownership plan (ESOP)

2006

2012 Barb King posthumously inducted into NAWBOMinnesota Hall of Fame

Integrated shade system introduced

2002

2008 Received the Design for All Award for work with inclusive playgrounds

Landscape Structures becomes the first U.S. playground equipment manufacturer to achieve ISO 14001 Certification

1999 2001

Award-winning Hedra play system

PlayBooster ® system created

Steve King appointed to Federal Access Board’s Recreation Access Advisory Committee

Continuous improvement initiated to focus on lean manufacturing, ensuring efficient processes, on-time deliveries and one-kit flow

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Landscape Structures is incorporated

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Entered the water and splash play market with Aquatix ® by Landscape Structures Landscape Structures named “Partner in Play”

by KABOOM! Hedra® receives a GOOD DESIGN® Award from the Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies LSI celebrates 50th anniversary

An Aquatix® by Landscape Structures installation Winter 2021 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 43

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By Nick Mauer, Promotion Specialist, Musco Lighting The year 2021 marks the 45th year that Musco Lighting has been partnering with parks and recreation organizations in Minnesota and across the country – working together to expand opportunities for play through high-quality sports lighting.

THERE HAVE BEEN SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES ALONG THE WAY. •

SportsCluster ® – Musco’s first solution that revolutionized the approach to sports lighting.

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Light-Structure System™ – Introducing the unique complete system design in 5 Easy Pieces™.

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Control-Link™ – Providing 24/7 call-center support, proactive monitoring, and remote scheduling.

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Constant 25™ - An industry-first 25-year parts and labor warranty, offering peace of mind to customers.

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Light-Structure Green™ - Helping customers reduce their energy consumption and operating costs.

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TLC for LED® - Utilizing advanced LED light source technology to achieve results never before possible.

And in just the past few years, Musco has introduced innovative new solutions including Show-Light™ entertainment packages for special effects light shows; the Mini-Pitch System™ modular sports solution to help transform unused space into a high-quality soccer pitch; and MuscoVision™ automated sports broadcasting, helping customers generate new revenue and bring the action at their fields to customers everywhere.

Musco’s Sportscluster ®, introduced in 1977

Musco’s TLC for LED®, introduced in 2016

Musco is proud to work with communities throughout Minnesota, and congratulates them on their commitment to providing the best possible facilities and experiences to the individuals and families they serve.

MUSCO IS PROUD TO WORK WITH COMMUNITIES THROUGHOUT MINNESOTA, AND CONGRATULATES THEM ON THEIR COMMITMENT TO PROVIDING THE BEST POSSIBLE FACILITIES AND EXPERIENCES TO THE INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES THEY SERVE. Musco’s MuscoVision Sports Broadcasting™, introduced in 2020

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St. Croix Recreation is honored to have served Minnesota’s park and recreation teams for 40 years as we celebrate our anniversary in 2021! Johnnie Johnsen, a familiar face to many in the industry, founded St. Croix Recreation from his home in Stillwater, Minn. in 1981. Johnnie came to our great state from California where he earned a college degree in recreation management. He started the company from his basement and was greatly supported by his growing family while he owned and operated the business, building the brand you know today.

Outside of representing great products, Johnnie built his company around personal interactions and positive experiences.

It was of the utmost importance to him to build a reputation that was dependable but also fun. Recreation should be based on fun and he brought that to every phone call, playground build and industry event that he participated in. Who hasn’t run into him at a tradeshow and been given a big hug? While people have come and gone, the company culture continues to be of top importance of the company ethos.

Early in the company’s tenure, he was joined by Michael Basich who had years of install experience, and the company is lucky to still work with him today. In 2014, Johnnie transferred the position of president to his oldest son, Christopher Johnsen, who brought his wife, Hannah, into the business in 2015. Keegan Hartwick joined the team in 2019 and Johnnie continues to be an active member of St. Croix Recreation.

Front (l to r): Christopher Johnsen, Johnnie Johnsen, Mike Basich Back (l to r): Keegan Hartwick, Hannah Johnsen

Throughout the years, St. Croix Recreation has worked in all corners of the state of Minnesota, large and small towns and all types of customers. We are proud to continue to offer a variety of park and play equipment lines to the great state of Minnesota and hope to continue to do so for another 40 years. As Christopher and Hannah are currently expecting their third child, they have great hope to keep this a true family-business for generations to come.

ST CROIX RECREATION HISTORY: 1981-2021 St. Croix Recreation started by Johnnie Johnsen

1981

Christopher Johnsen starts working with St. Croix Recreation

1983

St. Croix Recreation moves office to downtown Stillwater

Johnnie Johnsen on a call in the downtown Stillwater office, 1988

2006

Office moves to Stillwater Business Park next to Lift Bridge Brewery

2015

2018

Hannah Johnsen starts working with St. Croix Recreation

Mike Basich helps a volunteer install a playground, 1997

St. Croix Recreation celebrates 40 th anniversary

2019

2021

Keegan Hartwick starts working with St. Croix Recreation

Johnnie, Hannah, and Christopher at the 2016 NRPA Conference

Winter 2021 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 45

MRPA CorporateConnections CONSTRUCTION SERVICES FOR PARK & RECREATION AGENCIES A Multipurpose Year-Round Facility to Meet the Needs of a Growing Community The Furniture and Things Community Event Center in Elk River has it all: two sheets of ice, a track, turf field house, softball fields, pavilion, concessions building, meeting rooms, and more.

RJM worked with 292 Design architects on constructability and cost-effectiveness, aiding the performance and longevity of the building and exterior spaces. The facility serves the entire community, from athletics to potlucks, and concerts that seat up 1,600 people.

RJM Construction, www.rjmconstruction.com

Building Enduring Relationships and Strong Communities Founded in 1897 and family-owned and managed for more than 75 years, Kraus-Anderson is consistently ranked by Engineering News Record among the U.S. Top 20 Construction firms in the Midwest, providing awardwinning consulting and construction services coast to coast. With extensive experience in park and recreation construction, Kraus-Anderson understands they are at the heart of every community. This community-centered approach ensures the interests of its members are valued and protected from project start to finish.

Kraus-Anderson, www.krausanderson.com

H+U Construction provides innovative construction management solutions, including for some of Minnesota’s most renowned park facilities. In the spring of 2021, H+U will complete a new trailhead building for Washington County at Ravine Regional Park (pictured), alongside HGA Architects and Engineers. The project represents a new “first” in the State, being constructed of fully Cross Laminated Timber. Some other “firsts” from H+U Include the first triple Green Globe Certified building, and two of the first ten LEED certified buildings in Minnesota.

H+U, www.hu-construction.com MRPA CorporateConnections is a value-added Corporate member benefit highlighting products, services, and company updates.

All Corporate members will be contacted to be included in one issue according to their market specialty.

46 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Rendering: HGA Architects and Engineers

Complex Projects Solved

Ride the Wild Surf Kids will love creating seaworthy adventures on the wondrously wavy BeachComber playstructure. Young imaginations are encouraged to go with the watery flow as they sail across the Tidal Wave Climber, wind their way down curvy slides and hop-hop-hop over the Pod Climber®. Add a cool color palette to accentuate the flowy design honoring the graceful motion of ocean waves. Introduce this seaside attraction to any playground for hours of nautical fun—no sand required! Learn more at playlsi.com/beachcomber.

Serving all Minnesota zip codes (except 565 & 567)

Serving Minnesota zip codes 565 & 567

763.550.7860

844.599.0757 • 701.356.8800

flagshipplay.com

dakotaplayground.com ©2020 Landscape Structures Inc.

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

NEW PRODUCT ALERT! COROCORD BY KOMPAN

Visit our website to learn more!

• 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