Minnesota magazine

March-May 2010 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 1

JanMINNESOTAMINNESOTAMINNESOTARecreation and ParksRecreation and ParksRecreation and ParksRecreation and ParksVolume 5, Issue 2

June 2010Volume 5, Issue 2June 2010Volume 5, Issue 2June 2010Volume 5, Issue 2June 2010Volume 5, Issue 2June 2010

CreatingEvents

CreatingEvents

CreatingEvents

CreatingEvents

www.mnrpa.org

Official Publication of Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

Finding the perfect space is literally a walk in the park




Enforcing Our Parks

Exploring Park Districts, Part 2

Enforcing Our Parks


Enforcing Our Parks


Enforcing Our Parks


Enforcing Our Parks


Enforcing Our Parks


2 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

Jan


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2 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org March-May 2010 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 3

PublisherMinnesota Recreation and Park Association200 Charles Street NE, Fridley, MN 55432www.mnrpa.org Tel: 763.571.1305

Editorial StaffMichelle J. Snider, Bethani Gerhard

Editorial BoardPatty Anderson, Maple GroveJan Ficken, Brooklyn ParkJennifer Fink, Anoka CountyChad Ubl, WinonaJason T. West, New Brighton

Advertising & DesignPernsteiner Creative Group, Inc.

MRPA Board of DirectorsPresident Jon Oyanagi, Brooklyn ParkPresident-Elect Cris Gears, Three Rivers Park DistrictPast President James “Corky” Ebeling, OwatonnaSecretary Jay Hutchison, Albert LeaTreasurer Dale McCamish, RochesterRSC Chair Scott Breuer, Apple Valley

Sandy Breuer, New Brighton Erica Chua, PlymouthJennifer Fink, Anoka CountyHolly Heitkamp, MoorheadRegina Michaud, PlymouthWayne Mooney, BrainerdRick Schaber, Saint CharlesDan Schultz, RosemountNicole White, Eden Prairie

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 AdvertisingSummer .................April 15 for the June issueFall ............... July 15 for the September issueWinter ... October 15 for the December issueSpring ............ January 15 for the March issue

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 [email protected].

Cover photo: City of Brooklyn Park

An affiliate of National Recreationand Park Association

It is our goal for you to read the mag-azine and respond to what we are producing; good or bad. It is our goal not to incite a mass cancellation of your subscription similar to the annual Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, but a little feedback is always welcome as we move this forward.

As we peruse other publications we feel we are in line with the short attention span and immediate need for gratification world we live in, with our shorter stories and highlights. However, more importantly we think this is the way we reach more readers. The Keeping Up, Section Highlights, MRPA in Action and From the Board President regular features underscore the value to be connected as members.

Speaking of the Board President the editorial board feels a kindred spirit with Jon. We are highlighting the park districts intentionally to bring awareness to his platform. We also are going back to see if we can glean ethnic information from the

student surveys the editorial board had commissioned for future articles pertaining to the interest of our young people to enter the recreation field.

When this reaches you, the summer season will be in full swing and so too will wedding season. Not only did many of you know the bride when she used to rock and roll but many of you played an important role in making the bride’s day. We highlight you

and your facilities that make weddings the fairy tale they should be.

In conjunction to the event space spotlight, we asked ourselves if the recession could be gauged on the use of park and recreation facilities. As economists look

at retail sales and the stock and housing market, we wonder if charging fees, increasing fees, and offering discounts at our facilities is a better indication of the economic times we live in?

Lastly, summer is here — have fun and be safe!

WHAT’s INsIDEBy MRPA Magazine Editorial Board

What’s on your mind?This can be the section of the ‘magazine’ where concerns, praise, agreement and disagreement are highlighted as letters from readers, usually pertaining to the previous issue.

MINNESOTARecreation and Parks

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June 12, 2010

Details at www.nationalgetoutdoorsday.org


We’re Going National and you can come along!MINNESOTA magazine will be given to all delegates attending the 2010 Congress & Exposition in Minneapolis, October 25 - 29. This is a great opportunity to advertise directly to 4,500-5,000 national recreation and park decision-makers. Advertising space deadline is Friday, July 23. Contact Todd Pernsteiner at 952.841.1111 or [email protected] for rates and details and to reserve your space.

TABLE OF CONTENTs

What’s Inside ................................3From the Board President ...........5Keeping Up ...................................6Enforcing Our Parks .....................8MRPA Programming ..................10MRPA In Action ...........................10

Exploring Park Districts .............12There’s a Space for That ............16Space Rental Guide ...................24Rental Directory .........................25Corporate Connections ............28What’s Going On ...................... 30

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When the Green Bay United Way wanted to supply a new playground to a deserving area of the community, they turned to the team at Minnesota/Wisconsin Playground. Along with Green Bay Packers and a team of United Way volunteers, we helped install a playground that will positively affect the lives of thousands of children. Are you looking to tackle a new playground? We can help you score a great solution.

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Thank you to our advertisers for your help in supporting

MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks magazine. We kindly ask

members to please support our advertisers.

Interested in advertising? Contact Todd Pernsteiner at

952.841.1111 or [email protected].

June-August 2010 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 5

Seriously, every step of the way there were supporters that helped me get to the next opportunity. Every park and recreation pro-fessional should have that same opportu-nity. The one mentor that stands out is Barb Tuckner. After high school I volunteered to work at a day camp for children with devel-opmental disabilities. Barb was one of the leaders. Through her encouragement, prod-ding, and modeling of a true professional she inspired me to seek out therapeutic rec-reation as a career. I thought I was destined to be a dentist.

At the annual meeting I mentioned one of the four goals of my term as president of this association was to encourage current pro-fessionals to actively seek out youth of color in order to mentor those interested in pur-suing parks and recreation as a profession. Gauging the diversity within our profession from a visual survey at conferences and meetings, one would tend to classify us as a fairly homogeneous group, based on ethnic-ity. Being dedicated public servants, many of us work hard to learn about the various cultures around us and adapt to more effec-tively serve these residents. For all people, the natural comfort level comes easiest with those who are similar to us.

Certainly as we look at the people we serve we realize that our communities are in-creasingly more diverse. Brooklyn Park has become a community rich with a variety of ethnicities. Approximately 40% of the com-munity is made up of various ethnic minori-ties. Through intentional efforts, the recre-ation and parks department has a seasonal staff that is fairly representative of the ethnic diversity in our city. We work with youth as “leaders-in-training” when they are under employment age. They move on to become aides, then assistants then leaders and su-pervisors. They are encouraged to pursue recreation and parks as a profession.

Take the time to be intentional and seek out youth you employ who are consider-ing their career choices. Especially encour-age youth of color to consider the profes-sion. This initiative will take a special effort in order to overcome the lack of role mod-els. Attend job exploration opportuni-ties to recruit tomorrow’s colleagues. An encouraging word might be all it takes. Without that special effort the profession will continue on a historic path and be slow to evolve. We cannot afford to be slow to evolve.

The Minnesota Recreation and Park Associa-tion has developed a Mentorship Program Guide to provide professionals with the information helpful in developing a mentor-ing relationship. This resource is available on the web site as a part of the Best Practices information. The guide is extremely helpful for preparing anyone for this type of rela-tionship.

If every MRPA member took the initiative to approach a young person of color who has the potential to be a good park and recre-ation professional, we might become a more colorful profession and more relevant in the eyes of our clients. And there would be few-er dentists.

FROM THE BOARD PREsIDENTBy Jon Oyanagi, MRPA President

Open WideAlong my professional road, there have been mentors that have offered guidance and insight shaping me into the professional I am today. Don’t blame them.

“Take the time to be intentional and seek out youth you employ who are considering their career choices.”

Park & Trail System PlanPark Master PlanPark DesignFunding & Implementation

866.830.3388 [email protected]


Conference. New park. Awards aplenty. Retirees.“Keeping Up” is a new feature that will highlight MRPA member events, news, people and more. To contribute to this section, please send a 125 word or less brief and photos to Michelle Snider at MRPA ([email protected]).

Maple Grove Goes Green with New ParkThe Town Green is a new urban park in Maple Grove. The park provides a distinctive community gathering place with its main focus on the performing arts. The landmark feature of the park is the bandshell with a dramatic wing-like roof canopy located at the water’s edge. The three pavilions include a concession space, restrooms and a rentable meeting room for small gatherings or parties.

The Town Green will host numerous summer time performances of music, dance, and theater programmed by Maple Grove Parks and Recreation. Seating for 300 is incorporated into a classic terraced bowl shape with ample space beyond for visitors to spread out and enjoy the park. The park also features a peninsula which will be a great spot to experience the lake or host a small event.

Scholarships AwardedSouthern Minnesota Recreation and Park Association would like to announce the 2010 student scholarship award recipients. Cody Buechner, a student from the Minnesota State University, Mankato and Karlie Galias, a student from Winona State University each will receive $1,000 from SMRPA. This is the second year SMRPA has awarded a scholarship(s) to students majoring in Recreation, Park and Leisure Studies. Congratulations to Cody and Karlie.

Two Set to RetirePlymouth Parks and Recreation’s Karol Klint Greupner and Minnesota State University, Mankato’s James Petersen are both retiring this spring. MRPA thanks both Karol and James for their dedication to the profession, and many contributions to the association.

KEEPING UP

National Congress Coming SoonNational Recreation and Park Association Congress will be held October 25 - 29 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. There will be 220 educational break-out sessions offered throughout Congress week. The Local Host Committee has been working for over 18 months on the following event areas: off-site institutes, leisure tours, golf tournaments, 5K fun run/walk, community build project, general store, leisure park, elected officials’ breakfast, and volunteer efforts. We’re ready to welcome NRPA delegates, exhibitors, and speakers to Minnesota!

University of Minnesota Awards AlumnusThe University of Minnesota College of Education and Human Development Alumni Society has chosen Donna Tilsner as this year’s Larry Wilson Award recipient. This award is presented annually to an outstanding graduate of the college who has demonstrated excellence in educational achievement outside the traditional school environment. The award was presented April 9 at the McNamara Alumni Center. Donna is a recreation supervisor with Edina Park and Recreation.

Team Challenge UpdateIf you remember back in January we told you that Roseville employees Eric Boettcher, Gretchen Carlson, Jill Anfang, Kara Thomas and Roxann Maxey were chosen to participate in a weight loss challenge against five KQRS radio staff. Team members received Seattle Sutton meals three times a day for 14 weeks. They are also committed to working out regularly. Team Roseville lost 147 lbs, KQRS lost 107 lbs. Congratulations!

Donna Tilsner, second from left

L to R: Anfang, Boettcher, Carlson, Thomas, Maxey


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There are three main enforcement models a park entity can choose for obtaining police services: employing your own law enforcement staff (Three Rivers Park District and State of Minnesota); relying on the jurisdictional law enforcement authority, be it city or county agencies (Minneapolis Parks, Scott County and almost all rural or out-state communities); or contracting for services via a security force or existing law enforcement agency. A fourth and less widely used option is to create a security department to maintain order and address low level order maintenance issues such as parking or animal violations (St. Paul Park Security). There are additional variations or hybrids of these primary models, but essentially, police services can be broken down into one of the above areas.

Once you decide which model is the best fit for your organization based on the mission of your organization, costs, responsiveness to your individual needs, etc., you must decide what the focus of the policing action should be. Do you prefer an educational approach with citations or arrests coming only after educational efforts have failed or do you prefer a less tolerant enforcement mindset which is more stringent when dealing with violators?

What is the expectation of park guests? What is the expectation of the law enforce-

ment entity? Most urban police departments and sheriff’s of-fices do not have the luxury of time to spend proactively edu-cating trail users on nuances of

trail crossings or leash laws. In these high call jurisdictions, officers and deputies “work off the stack” of waiting or pending calls and response is predicated by severity or risk of life. It is not uncom-mon in some communities that low level crimes are taken over the phone or that it will take law enforcement staff an hour or more to respond. In some cases, officer or deputy availability is simply to drive through a park or take a break in a park location, as that is about all the time they have available.

Additional consideration should be given to what role or amount of input park leaders have in determining the law enforcement response. In many locales, law enforcement is left to the police or sheriff’s authorities and their goals may and often times are vastly different from what the park supervisor’s goal was. Most law enforcement agencies strive to be proactive and partner with the communities they serve and represent. A higher level of accountability can be attained if the park entity has more control such as in hiring their own police department or contracting for police services. If service levels are inadequate, the park entity can sever the contract or use progressive discipline to guide their own law enforcement staff to focus on important issues for the park.

Once this partnership is created and law enforcement is working closely alongside park staff with the same vision in mind, attention can shift toward how visible the law enforcement entity is within

Enforcement in Our Parks: Finding the Right BalanceBy Hugo McPhee, Director of Public Safety Three Rivers Park District, Plymouth, Minnesota

Park and law enforcement professionals typically strive for the same goal: guest satisfaction

and enjoyment of the parks. Park law enforcement can help ensure this by reducing or

eliminating crime so park guests are not victimized and have an enjoyable and memorable

time. This sounds like a straight forward concept but there are a myriad of ways for law

enforcement to achieve these goals. It all starts with a solid partnership with park staff.

Park Staff

ContractedServices

City/CountyAgencies

Employed Law Enforcement


Balance


Law enforcement staff must be seen doing their activity

within the park.the parks. Numerous studies show that a highly visible, yet friendly, law enforcement presence is a strong deterrent to crime within a given area. It is not enough to be simply visible within the parks, but law enforcement staff must be depicted as vigilant. Long gone are the days of having a park ranger stationed at the gate entry welcoming guests to the park. Although an important relations tool, this presence has very little impact on crime occurring within the park.

Law enforcement staff must be seen doing their activity within the park. This can be in the form of proactive educational traffic stops reminding guests to obey the speed limits, wear their safety belts, be mindful of trail crossings, etc. This can also be in the form of foot patrol through campgrounds and trail areas. Additionally, mounted patrol on horse, ATVs, scooters, etc., provide unique patrol opportunities. The point is that the law enforcement entity be seen as both highly visible but also as an active entity so those intending to commit crime know there is a reasonable likelihood they may be arrested if they choose to commit the crime in the park.

Three Rivers Public Safety embraces a high visibility, proactive, and friend-ly approach to law enforcement in the parks. Police staff is encouraged to make traffic stops not only within the parks themselves, but also in ar-eas immediately adjacent to parks if the action will have a positive ef-fect on the safety or enjoyment of the parks by staff or guests. The re-sult is a very visible and professional policing agency that is viewed as being very active and involved with the safeguarding of park properties. This approach has seen crime drop 9.1% from 2005-2010 despite annual park guest visits increasing from three million to eight million. Additionally, crime clearance rates have risen from 25% to 53%. Many surrounding com-munities have not enjoyed the same reduction in crime. These are remark-able improvements, especially when you consider most crimes in the parks are un-witnessed property crimes such as thefts from vehicles, vandalism, etc.

In summary, it is imperative that both park staff and patrolling law enforcement share the same

mindset in addressing crime issues. Once that partnership is created, there needs to be leeway for

both sides in handling the proper response to crimes. Park staff needs to know and trust that law enforcement is taking the right precautions when responding to crimes and law enforcement must know and trust that park staff are an important part of the solution to crime in the parks.

Hugo McPhee is the Director of Public Safety for Three Rivers Park District and serves on the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Board

of Directors where he is also the statewide Regional Representative. He also serves on the National Park Law Enforcement Board of Directors and is the Educational Committee Chair. Hugo has presented on topics at the national and regional level and will be presenting two topics regarding park safety at NRPA Congress in Minneapolis this fall.


The MRPA Programming Section hosted the annual Summer Leader-ship Workshop May 22 in Chanhassen. There were 101 summer staff members registered for the event, an increase in participation over the last two years. Session topics included implementing music into game time, sporting adventures, mentorship sharing, communication, power of acceptance and inclusion, working with difficult behaviors, and nature play. Thank you to committee members: Becky Sola, Shoreview; Margo Prasek, Fridley; John Stutzman, Chanhassen; and Lisa Abernathy, Falcon Heights for coordinating this educational opportunity for summer staff.

< Meet Brad Martens

Brad Martens’ first parks and recreation job was at Flandrau State Park in New Ulm, Minn. He worked at the park seasonally from 2000 to 2003 and worked his way through most of the posi-tions from maintenance to park security. He states, “It was a great job that included taking care of a 400,000 gal-lon outdoor swimming pool

along with miles of trails and 93 campsites.” Following the state park position he interned with Ramsey County Parks and Recreation. He was then fortunate to get hired by New Brighton as a recreation coordinator, recreation supervisor, and now facilities manager.

Martens has gained many benefits from being an active MRPA member. He states: “MRPA provided networking opportunities during my undergraduate classes at Minne-sota State University, Mankato at the annual conference and the professional connections. Through conference networking, I met Jody Yungers and secured an intern-ship with Ramsey County. Additionally, I found the po-sition with New Brighton through an MRPA job posting and enhanced my skills by attending the MRPA Emerg-ing Recreation Leaders Institute.” He continues to be involved wherever he can. “I’ve definitely received more than I have put in”, says Martens. He has been continu-ously involved in MRPA since 2005 by attending section meetings. In addition, he was a part of the 2007, 2008 and 2009 conference committees and has been the chair of the Community Facilities Section since 2009.

Congratulations to Brad for recently finishing the master’s in public administration program at Hamline University. His final project was a study on the effects of early retirement incentive programs on local government organizations. Martens states, “Local governments are in a whirlwind of change right now and I chose the topic to better under-stand just one of the many ways we are trying to reduce our expenditures. It provided an opportunity to take an extremely recent issue and learn what the true effects are. I’d be happy to share the paper.”

Martens’ final comments are, “I have benefited a great deal from MRPA and strongly encourage younger profession-als to get involved with the sections or committees. I can’t imagine being where I am today without jumping in and tak-ing advantage of the great opportunities MRPA provides.”

MRPA Programming

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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MRPA IN ACTION


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The Dead Sea Scrolls was created by the Israel Antiquities Authority from the collections of the National Treasures in collaboration with the Science Museum of Minnesota.

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Have potential?“Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others.” - Jack Welch

Emerging leaders seek out opportunities to learn, explore and take risks. MRPA is committed to preparing professionals with the leadership skills and knowledge base needed to sustain and better the organization and the people they serve.

The Institute, which is limited to 40 participants, will meet on six Tuesdays during the fall of 2010. ERLI is geared for the parks and recreation professional with less than 10 years of experience. Seasoned professionals will serve as the faculty for each of the sessions. Registration includes Institute materials, lunches and a long-sleeve t-shirt. A minimum of 20 participants is needed to run the program.

MRPA Member: $225 Non-MRPA Member: $275Deadline: August 27 Register: mnrpa.org/erli

2010 ERLI CuRRICuLuM

September 14 – Golden Valley• Recreation Areas• City Structure

September 28 – Eden Prairie• Policies/Procedures• Staffing• Human Resources• Enterprise Funds

October 12 – Eagan• Legal/Risk Management• Finance• Park Planning/Trails• Park Maintenance

November 9 – Anoka County• School Districts• Partnerships• Athletic Associations

November 16 – New Brighton• Sales/Marketing/Branding• Case Studies

December 7 – Bloomington • Professional Opportunities• MRPA• Mock Council

Register at: mnrpa.org/erli


SMRPA 2nd Annual Golf TournamentWednesday, September 8 Brooktree Golf Course Owatonna, MN

$60 includes cart, meal and prize drawing

A major fundraiser for the student scholarships is the Southern Minnesota Recreation and Park Association Annual Golf Tournament. The golf tournament will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, September 8 at Brooktree Golf Course in Owatonna, Minnesota.

The entry fee is $60 and includes the cart, a meal following your round, and a raffle ticket for door prizes. This is a four person best shot tournament.

If you are interested in supporting the scholarship program as a participant or sponsor please contact Mary Jo Knudson at [email protected] for more information or download an entry form at www.mnrpa.org.

A perfect day to go birdie watching.

Park Districts as a Service Delivery ModelBy: Jon Oyanagi, MRPA President

The idea of park districts has been around for many decades and has worked well for many agencies around the country. Illinois is one of the states utilizing this method of service delivery most predominantly. The state of Washington created this ability in 1907. Wisconsin has attempted and failed to pass similar legislation. Within Minnesota, Three Rivers Park District operates as a park district. Approval of the creation of this park district occurred back in 1957 through state legislation. Chapter 398 of the Minnesota State Statutes addresses the creation of park districts for counties. That is one method for establishing county park districts. However, Chapter 398 does not allow cities to form park districts.

Voter approval is another method to authorize the creation of a park district. First, enabling legislation must be created at the state level that authorizes such votes, or referendum. There is usually a process determined to put the issue on a ballot. Sometimes a petition is required with a minimum percentage of the area’s voters required before the matter will be placed on a ballot. Voters determine whether they will approve of a park district as a separate taxing authority supported through a dedicated tax levy. The legislation dictates the threshold for passage of the referendum – whether it be a simple majority or a certain percentage.

ExploringPark Districts


As outlined in the last issue of

MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks

magazine, the Association will research

park district legislation and development

throughout 2010. The magazine will

feature a four-part series focused on

park districts as a way to provide further

information to the membership. Features

will include information on park district

governance: what is a park district, which

states currently allow for this governance

structure, advantages and disadvantages,

and more. In this issue we focus on park

districts as a service delivery model.

398.01 PARK DISTRICTS; SINGLE AND MULTICOUNTY.There are hereby created, subject to activation by the boards of county commissioners, as hereinafter provided, park districts which are bodies corporate and politic and which, when activated, shall be deemed to be political subdivisions of the state of Minnesota and public corporations. Park districts shall be of two kinds: (1) single county, which shall be coterminous with a county except that in counties containing a city of the first class such city shall be excluded from the park district; and (2) multicounty, which shall include parts or all of more than one county but shall not include any city of the first class. No park district shall be activated under this chapter until it contains at least part of a county having a population of 350,000 people or more according to the last

Park Districts


398.01 PARK DISTRICTS; SINGLE AND MULTICOUNTY.There are hereby created, subject to activation by the boards of county commissioners, as hereinafter provided, park districts which are bodies corporate and politic and which, when activated, shall be deemed to be political subdivisions of the state of Minnesota and public corporations. Park districts shall be of two kinds: (1) single county, which shall be coterminous with a county except that in counties containing a city of the first class such city shall be excluded from the park district; and (2) multicounty, which shall include parts or all of more than one county but shall not include any city of the first class. No park district shall be activated under this chapter until it contains at least part of a county having a population of 350,000 people or more according to the last

Another method is to write into the enabling legislation the ability for the councils or boards

governing the district voting on whether to create a park district. This is more common for counties where the district will share the same boundaries or cities large enough to support a district internally. In another scenario, cases where multiple cities or counties and cities combine, the proposed district would need to pass resolutions in all jurisdictions in order to authorize the creation of the district.

The legislation, public referendum, or council/board vote usually also establishes the governing board of the newly created district. This can be the existing council/board or create a new board and procedure for establishing the board. Also included in the legislation are definitions of power, employees, ordinances, bonding ability, levying, and other details concerning the district.

The most likely scenarios for Minnesota would involve multiple cities in the metropolitan area jointly pursuing the efficiencies of becoming a district or cities and counties in rural areas working together as one park and recreation agency. The taxing capacity would need to be sufficient for the creation of a district to make sense to decision-makers. There would need to be efficiencies achieved through the consolidation of administration, maintenance, programming, and facility operation for the district idea to proceed.

In the past, the state legislature has also created special districts for distinct purposes with sunset clauses. There are

examples around the country where residents approved the creation of a special park district to solve an issue. A swimming pool in Washington was operated by the city and the council was concerned about the financial losses incurred by the operation. The school district took over operation and soon was also concerned about the operation costs. The city agreed to resume operation of the pool if a special park district (that included just the swimming pool) was approved by voters. Risking the loss of the pool, the referendum succeeded and the city operates the pool with revenue from dedicated taxes that voters approved. In this case, residents were willing to pay extra taxes to subsidize the operation of a pool they felt added to the quality of life in their city.

There is a long road before this process is available. The next steps include drafting proposed legislation or changes to existing legislation. That will take some time as writers at the state craft the language and cross-reference the implications so as not to conflict with other existing legislation. Authors will be sought to carry this bill through their respective body of the state legislature. Then the work of educating and advocating occurs. Shepherding the work through committees will occur until ultimately the bill is heard on the floors of each house. Hopefully, the bill would pass and be signed into legislation by the governor. Then the communities of Minnesota will have the ability to create parks and recreation districts as an alternative to the current service delivery model.

To review the full Chapter 398 of the Minnesota State Statutues, visit: https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/?id=398.


There’s a space for that.Making an event memorable in Minnesota is literally a walk in the park.

Renting a park facility makes sense. Minnesota city,

county and state park facilities offer a plethora of

meeting rooms, exhibit areas, outdoor spaces,

golf courses and banquet halls. Park and recreation

managers are finding more ways for event planners

to utilize space for gatherings of all sizes – from

weddings and family reunions, to tradeshows,

meetings and unique team building outings.

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By: Gina Gryniewski Brooklyn Park Recreation and Parks

When event planners are looking for outdoor fun for families, a unique place to have a meeting, or interested in learning about agriculture and farm life, these beautiful historical venues aim to exceed expectations. Three Rivers Park District - The Landing and Gale Woods Farm

The Three Rivers Park District has a variety of parks, pavilions and banquet facilities, but nothing compares to the special charm and beautiful scenery of The Landing and Gale Woods Farm.

The Landing, formerly Historic Murphy’s Landing, was established in 1969. This 88-acre living history museum portrays life in the 1840s–1890s with beautiful 19th-century buildings, displays and a scenic river trail and overlook. The original site includes Major Murphy’s Inn and Ferry Crossing, the Pond Grist Mill, and a river overlook wall. The mission of the park is to interpret how people, for thousands of years, have connected with the Minnesota River and its surrounding natural and cultural resources.

Although most of The Landing is used for recreational and educational programming, it can also be rented for weddings and events. With its historic church and town hall setting, this site appeals to many brides and grooms to be.

Gale Woods Farm, located in Minnetrista, Minn. is also owned and operated by the Three Rivers Park District. Gale Woods Farm was donated to the Park District to develop and turn into an educational farm. This 40-acre farm includes a barn, machine shed, livestock, hay storage and a pavilion.

“The pavilion rentals bring in about 90% of the revenue, which helps offset the costs of educational programming at the farm,” said Tom Knisely, media relations specialist. “Our pavilion holds up to 320 people and is intended to host many different types of events.”

For more information on these facilities, please visit www.threeriversparks.org. City of Brooklyn Park - Eidem Homestead

Similar to the Three Rivers Park District’s historical venues is the Eidem Homestead, located in Brooklyn Park, Minn. The homestead is a ten-acre living record of farm life in Minnesota during the years of 1890 to 1910. Homesteaded over a century ago, the farm was owned by the Eidem family for 82 years. The historical farm recreates the physical surroundings in which the family lived their daily lives.

Interpreters at the Eidem Homestead carry out the tasks of farming and related household activities using the tools and techniques of the late 1800s. You can experience the sights, smells and sounds that were part of the daily lives of many Americans during this period in our nation’s history.

Stepping Back in Time

Gale Woods Farm

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The historical farm consists of a farmhouse, barn, outhouse, chicken coop and windmill, period farm equipment and crop land. The barn and barnyard harbor livestock such as horses, cows, sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, geese and cats. The purpose of this restored farmstead is to preserve and portray 19th century farm life through guided tours, displays, pioneer craft demonstrations and hands-on activities. The Brooklyn Park Recreation and Parks Department also offers art classes, special events and concerts at the farm. School groups, summer camps and families enjoy activities such as pumping water from the well, making lemonade, washing clothes and feeding the farm animals.

“We are hoping to accommodate more weddings and private events at the Eidem Homestead. With its serene and natural surroundings, many people are inquiring about having their private event at the homestead,” said Farm Coordinator Susan Gower.

For more information on the Brooklyn Park Eidem Homestead, please visit www.brooklynpark.org or call the Brooklyn Park Recreation and Parks Department at 763-493-8333.

Anoka County - Riedel Farm Estate

Just to the north of Brooklyn Park is another quaint farm location, the Riedel Farm Estate in Anoka County. The Estate was built in the 1880s and is the former home of dairy farmer Albin E. Riedel. Today, the farm serves as a special event facility.

Anoka County acquired the property in the 1980s and has recently renovated the interior finishes, re-landscaped the grounds, and renewed all furnishings. The 140-acre Riverfront Regional Park features biking and walking trails, picnicking, a boat launch, and plenty of open play areas.

“We have about 5,000 visitors per year and our space can accommodate 50-100 people depending on the season,” said Marketing and Visitor Services Manager Jennifer Fink. “The majority of our rentals are weddings, but we also have hosted holiday parties, grooms’ dinners, family picnics, and more.”

Please visit www.anokacountyparks.com or call the Anoka County Parks and Recreation Office at 763-757-3920 for more information regarding the Riedel Farm Estate.

Eidem Homestead

Eidem Homestead

Riedel Farm Estate

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By Bethani Gerhard Minnesota Recreation and Park Association Offering various city and county facility rentals can be a challenge, especially with added pressure from certain groups requesting free use.

“We try very hard to abide by our fee schedule,” says Jennifer Fink, marketing and visitor services manager with Anoka County Parks. “But there is always pressure to offer more and more freebies.”

The City of Winona recently made it mandatory that there will be no more free use of any of their facilities. They have Holzinger, Lake and Valley Oaks lodges with meeting rooms available for rent as well as open-air shelters, gazebos, patios and a bandshell.

According to Chad Ubl, community services director for the City of Winona: “During the 2010 budget process, the Winona City Council asked recreation staff for a report detailing the amount of facility rental fees that are typically waived in a given year. Based on the report and the reduction in Local Government Aid, the Council has discontinued the practice of granting facility use for free. To date all requests to the City Council for the waiving of fees have been denied. Those entities requesting have been given a reduced fee. It is our opinion that the City Council recognizes the costs associated with maintaining and administering the facilities we own and that revenue, in any amount, is relevant.”

There are three rooms available for rental at the Monticello Community Center, all at different hourly rates. “We have a very large meeting/banquet room which can hold 300 people for large meetings or wedding receptions,” says Kitty Baltos, director of the Monticello Community Center. The medium size room can seat up to 80 people and the smaller room which can hold up to 28 people. They also have a party room, called the Warehouse Room. Baltos adds, “Our room rentals have increased as compared to 2009.”

The City of Monicello does allow non-profits to use their City Hall’s Academy Conference Room once per month for free after 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, or on weekends. “This is a no-frills room, conference table and chairs,” says Baltos. “No other set up is provided, and no food can be brought in so we don’t have to spend time cleaning. This conference room can’t hold more than 15 people, so it doesn’t work for every group.”

Anoka County gives non-profit organizations and gov-ernment agencies discounts on meeting rooms and pavilions Monday through Friday, with no fee reduction on weekends. The non-reduced fee for renting meeting rooms varies from $20/hour for the library at the Wargo Nature Center to $70/hour at the Riedel Farm Estate. In addition, there is a $20/hour fee for their facility rentals when the buildings are not regularly staffed.

Facility Use for Free…or Not for Free

Masonic Lodge Theatre

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The Archery Building, Riedel Farm Estate and the Rum River North Building and Camp Salie also have a $40 opening and closing fee. “We usually never waive the open and close or guest service fees,” adds Fink. “Those are hard costs we incur to open and close staff facilities.”

Anoka County Parks gives government agencies a 50% reduction on all facility rentals during the week and non-profit agencies a 25% reduction. However, during the weekends there are no fee reductions for any group.

According to Fink, offering free use of facilities was taking space away from those customers that were willing to pay full price for the limited facilities that we’re available on the weekends, such as the pavilions. “We didn’t feel that it was fair to them,” says Fink, “or the taxpayers in general to be subsidizing groups during our highest use times.”

Numerous parks and recreation agencies will be involved with National Night Out on August 3, 2010. It is an annual nationwide event that encourages residents to get to know their neighbors. It also promotes crime prevention and community-police partnerships. Here is a sampling of what’s going around Minnesota.

The City of Minneapolis is hosting their 27th Annual National Night Out. Neighbors can register their event online. When they register, they get free mystery point passes for Nickelodeon Universe at MOA. Registration also places them on the official list of National Night Out events, distributed to police and other departments.

Maple Grove is also requesting neighbors to complete a National Night Out registration form and return it to their police fepartment. As an early bird bonus, the first 50 registered parties will be guaranteed a visit by the police or fire department. They also have a community picnic planned in the Lions Pavilion at the Community Center.

The Winona Park and Recreation Department provides hotdogs and burgers to neighbors. Last year they provided activities such as street bowling, a dunk tank, a visit from the fire department, and a variety of bands. They hope to do something similar again this year.

The City of Rochester has a Night to Unite/National Night Out. The Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office Crime Prevention Division partners with the Rochester Police Department’s Crime Prevention Division. Rochester Parks and Recreation Department delivers picnic tables to neighborhoods for use during their gatherings.

The City of Inver Grove Heights Parks and Recreation Department has a partnership with their fire and police department for their event. It is called “Night to Unite in Inver Grove Heights.”

Thief River Falls Parks and Recreation Department collaborates with their police department and will be holding their event on August 4. It is for all residents at one time and not divided into block parties. Each year, between 900 and 1,000 people participate. With a population of 8,500, that is an excellent response.

Check out National Night Out in an area close to your neighborhood or to register an event, visit www.nationaltownwatch.org/nno/

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March-May 2010 • MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks 2322 MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks • www.mnrpa.org

The Perfect WeddingBy Bethani Gerhard Minnesota Recreation and Park Association The perfect wedding demands the perfect location. Many park and recreation agencies offer their facilities for both indoor and outdoor weddings. The prices vary depending on the caterer, alcohol distributor and extra amenities, but one thing remains the same, the hope for a smooth wedding day.

The Millennium Garden in Plymouth is a popular place for wedding ceremonies. “Helping brides achieve their wedding vision while staying within our policies is a challenge,” says Angie Jedinak Dehn, rental coordinator with the City of Plymouth. “We have 50-plus receptions in our ballroom and about 55 ceremonies held in our garden.”

The cost of renting the garden is $355 or $475 for non-residents. The Plymouth Creek Center room holds up to 352 people for a wedding and costs $895 or $1,195 for a non-resident on a Friday or Saturday.

“A renter does need to use one of our three exclusive caterers for all food and beverage needs,” says Jedinak Dehn. And if alcohol is served, a Plymouth police officer must be on duty for $60 per hour (minimum of three hours).

Harriet Island also requires an off-duty St. Paul police officer for all private events. The rate is $45 per hour with a minimum of four hours. Harriet Island has a 5,000 square-foot pavilion for wedding rentals.

“We are completely full on Saturdays during the summer,” says Katie Reed, Harriet Island event staff for Saint Paul Parks and Recreation. “We have approximately 40 to 50 weddings during the year. Seventy-five percent of those also have a wedding ceremony at the patio that overlooks the river.”

The pavilion rental is $2,000 for the entire day, which includes the north and south patios, tables and cloth chairs. There are no exclusive caterers, but the caterer does have to be licensed. Renters have to complete a beverage permit if they are going to be serving alcohol.

“The pavilion can hold up to 250 people comfortably,” says Reed. “We also have the north and south patios open if there are more people.”

The Maple Grove Community Center banquet room can also hold up to 250 for weddings. “The biggest challenge is that people think the room has elastic sides,” says Lisa Jost, community center manager with Maple Grove Parks and Recreation. “The banquet room can hold a few more, but we tell them that just in case 30 or more show up.”

There are four exclusive caterers and two liquor providers for the banquet room. “We are seeing more ceremonies and receptions in one location,” says Jost. Maple Grove has a large patio with a flower garden for outdoor weddings. The Town Green band shell and park facility just opened and offers another option for ceremonies and a reception area.

Outdoor weddings can also be booked through Hutchinson Parks and Recreation. “We see about four or five outdoor weddings a year at local parks,” says Dolf Moon, director of Hutchinson Parks and Recreation. “The Hutchinson Event Center holds about 35 weddings annually and accommodates up to 525 people.”

Rental of the event center is $400 for the day or evening and includes room set-up and tear down. There is a list of six alcohol dispensers and 27 caterers to choose from.

People can upgrade from the $400 basic room set-up by adding decorating or dining extras. “The funny thing is that people still think this is expensive, especially the locals,” explains Moon. “But they are actually getting quite a deal compared to the metro area.”

Harriet Island Pavilion

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Renewed SpaceFormer orphanage provides for unique office and rental space

By Gloria Kolander Owatonna Park and Recreation The State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children operated from 1885-1945 in Owatonna, Minnesota. The facility is now used for city administration offices, Owatonna Arts Center, park and recreation department, Little Theater of Owatonna, Wee Pals Day Care Center, Semcac, Big Brothers –Big Sisters, AA/Alanon, Senior Place, West Hills Lodge, State School Museum and newly added Cottage 11. C-11 is a unique site which clearly reveals to the world how 6-13 year-old boys lived in a cottage during their stay at the orphanage.

This site features a self-guided tour, gift shop, displays designed to recreate aspects of the life and times which influenced these boys (www.orphanagemuseum.com), and other various short-term rentals. The tennis and fitness center and the former gym are now known as the Owatonna Fitness Center. The fitness center is used for swimming, indoor sports, and there is tennis available for all ages.

The Owatonna Arts Center, located inside the Owatonna administration building, is better known as “The Castle” to the community. The arts center provides meeting space available for rental. Additionally, Senior Place has five meeting rooms and is on the State School West Hills Campus.

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Anoka County Parks and Recreation N Y N 25+ 300 300 Y Y N N N Y N

Anoka County - Riedel Farm Estate N Y Y 100 100 N Y N N N Y N

Apple Valley Y Y Y 2 75 90 96 N Y N N Y 300 Y N N

Apple Valley - Hayes Community N Y Y 5 160 310 224 Y 20 Y Y Y N N N Y 75and Senior Center

Bloomington - Creekside N Y Y 5 35 45 175 Y 12-15 N Y Y N N N NCommunity Center

Brooklyn Park Community Y N N 6 240 375 330 Y 40 Y Y Y N Y N NActivity Center

Buffalo N Y Y 2 60 1,000 500 Y 120 Y Y Y N Y Y N

Chanhassen N Y N 5 40 75 N 30 N Y N N Y N N

Cloquet Community Education N N Y 10 20 594 N N Y Y Y 1,000 Y N Y 594and Recreation

Crystal Community Center N Y Y 3 100 100 100 Y 100 Y Y N Y 986 N N N

Eagan Civic Arena N Y N 2 75 125 25 Y 100 Y N N Y 2,000 N N N

Eagan Community Center N N N 8 240 400 400 Y 100+ Y Y N N Y Y N

Eden Prairie Community Center Y N N 11 90 100 80 N Y Y Y Y 260 N N N

Hutchinson Event Center N Y N 6 360 1100 500 Y 80 Y Y Y N N N N

Inver Grove Heights - N Y Y 8 150 600 600 Y 75 Y N Y Y 500 Y N NVeterans Memorial Community Center

Lakeville Area Arts Center N Y Y 3 150 250 100 N Y Y Y N Y N Y 300

Maple Grove Community Center Y N Y 8 150 300 250 Y Y Y Y 250 Y Y N

New Brighton - Brightwood Hills N Y N 1 48 48 48 N Y Y Y N N N N

Golf Course

New Brighton Family Service Center N Y Y 7 180 300 240 Y 46 Y Y Y N N N N

New Ulm N Y Y 6 70 350 250 Y 200 Y N Y Y 368 Y Y Y 350

Owatonna N Y Y 6 30-50 200 120 N Y N Y Y Y N Y 365

Owatonna - Four Seasons Centre N Y N 2 150 250 2,000 Y 300+ Y Y Y N N N N

Plymouth Creek Center Y N N 8 350 400 400 Y Y Y Y N Y N Y 140

Ramsey County - Keller Golf Course Y N N 1 100 80 150 N Y N Y N N N Y 80Clubhouse

Rosemount Y Y 7 300 350 300 Y 25 Y N N N Y Y Y 200

Roseville - Frank Rog Amphitheatre N Y Y 10,000 Y Y Y Y

Roseville - Muriel Sahlin Arboretum N Y N 1,000 1,000 Y N N N Y N N

Roseville Parks and Recreation - N Y Y 5 50 155 75 N N Y N N Y Y NNature Center

Roseville Skating Center N Y Y 3 280 350 280 Y 25 Y Y N N N Y 350

St. Louis Park - The Rec Center N Y N 2 200 200 N Y Y Y Y 1,200+ Y Y N

Saint Paul - Como Historic N N N 1 75 75 75 N N N N N Y N N

Streetcar Station

Saint Paul - Newell Building N N Y 1 100 100 100 N N N N N Y N N

Thief River Falls Parks & Recreation N Y Y 4 325 450 400+ Y 75 Y Y Y N Y Y N

Three Rivers Park District N N N 25 15 320 Y Y Y N Y Y N

Vadanis Heights N N Y 3 350 650 100 Y 40 Y N Y N Y N N

Waconia - Safari Island N Y N 3 50 75 N N Y Y Y 250 Y N N Community Center

Waseca Water Park N N N N N N Y 575 Y N N

Washington County Historic N Y Y 2 200 200 200 Y 38 Y N N N Y N NCourthouse

Washington County Parks N Y Y 2 25 25 25 N Y N Y N Y N N

Minnesota Park and Recreation Space Rental Guide


Anoka County Parks and Recreation 550 Bunker Lake Road Andover, MN 55304 Phone: 763-767-2870 Fax: 763-755-0230 Web: www.anokacountyparks.com/facilities

Anoka County - Riedel Farm Estate 5100 East River Road Fridley, MN 55432 Phone: 763-767-2870 Fax: 763-755-0230 Web: www.anokacountyparks.com/facilities/riedel_farm.htm

Apple Valley 7100 W. 147th Street W. Apple Valley, MN 55124 Phone: 952-953-2300 Fax: 952-953-2306 Web: www.cityofapplevalley.org

Apple Valley - Hayes Community and Senior Center7100 147th Street W. Apple Valley, MN 55124 Phone: 952-953-2345 Fax: 952-953-2339 Web: www. ci.apple-valley.mn.us

Bloomington - Creekside Community CenterPhone: 952-563-4944 Fax: 952-563-4945 9801 Penn Ave. S. Bloomington, MN 55431 Web: www.ci.bloomington.mn.us

Brooklyn Park Community Activity Center 5600 85th Ave N Brooklyn Park, MN 55443 Phone: 763-493-8333 Fax: 763-493-8253 Web: www.brooklynpark.org

Buffalo 212 Central Avenue Buffalo, MN 55313 Phone: 763-682-4132 Fax: 763-684-5471 Web: www.ci.buffalo.mn.us

Chanhassen 2310 Coulter Boulevard Chanhassen, MN 55317 Phone: 952-227-1401 Fax: 952-227-1404 Web: www.ci.chanhassen.mn.us

Cloquet Community Education and Recreation509 Carlton Avenue Cloquet, MN 55720 Phone: 218-879-1261 Fax: 218-878-3013 Web: www.cloquetcommunityed.com

Crystal Community Center 4800 Douglas Drive North Crystal, MN 55429 Phone: 763-531-1174 Fax: 763-531-0949 Web: www.ci.crystal.mn.us

Eagan Civic Arena 3830 Pilot Knob Road Eagan, MN 55122 Phone: 651-675-5592 Fax: 651-675-5595 Web: www.eagancivicarena.com

Eagan Community Center 1501 Central Parkway Eagan, MN 55123 Phone: 651-675-5558 Fax: 651-675-5565 Web: www.eagancommunitycenter.com

Eden Prairie Community Center Phone: (952) 949 - 8333 Fax: (952) 949 - 8492 16700 Valley View Road Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Web: www.edenprairie.org

Hutchinson Event Center 1005 Hwy 15 South Hutchinson, MN 55350 Phone: 320.234.5659 Fax: 320.234.5655 Web: www.hutchinsoneventcenter.com

Inver Grove Heights Parks and Recreation Department - Veterans Memorial Community Center8055 Barbara Avenue Inver Grove Heights, MN 55077 Phone: 651-450-2580 Fax: 651-450-2490 Web: www.ci.inver-grove-heights.mn.us

Lakeville Area Arts Center 20195 Holyoke Avenue Lakevlle, MN 55044 Phone: 952.985.4640 Fax: 985.985.4649 Web: www.lakevillemn.gov

Maple Grove Community Center 12951 Weaver Lake Road Maple Grove, MN 55369 Phone: 763-494-6527 Fax: 763-494-6454 Web: www.maplegrovecommunitycenter.org

New Brighton - Brightwood Hills Golf Course1975 Silver Lake Road New Brighton, MN 55112 Phone: 651-638-2150 Fax: 651-638-2135 Web: www.newbrightonmn.gov

Minnesota Park and Recreation Rental Directory

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Minnesota Park and Recreation Rental Directory


New Brighton Family Service Center 400 10th Street NW New Brighton, MN 55112 Phone: 651-638-2138 Fax: 651-638-2135 Web: www.newbrightonmn.gov

New ulm 122 S. Garden St. New Ulm, MN 56073 Phone: 507.359.8340 Fax: 507.359.8342 Web: www.ci.new-ulm.mn.us

Owatonna 540 West Hills Circle Owatonna, MN 55060 Phone: 507-451-6156 Fax: 507-444-4299 Web: www.ci.owatonna.mn.us

Owatonna - Four Seasons Centre 1525 S. Elm Ave P.O. Box 57 Owatonna, MN 55060 Phone: 507-451-1093 Fax: 507-451-5078 Web: www.co.steele.mn.us

Plymouth Creek Center 14800 34th Ave N Plymouth, MN 55447 Phone: 763-509-5285 Fax: 763-509-5290 Web: www.plymouthmn.gov

Ramsey County - Keller Golf Course Clubhouse2166 Maplewood Drive St. Paul, MN 55109 Phone: 763-744-8609 Web: www.ramseycountygolf.com

Rosemount 13885 South Robert Trail Rosemount, MN 55068 Phone: 651-322-6002 Fax: 651-322-6080 Web: www.ci.rosemount.mn.us

Roseville - Frank Rog Amphitheatre Roseville Parks and Recreation2660 Civic Center Drive Roseville, MN 55113 Phone: 651-792-7163 Fax: 651-792-7100 Web: www.cityofroseville.com/parks

Roseville - Muriel Sahlin Arboretum 2660 Civic Center Drive Roseville, MN 55113 Phone: 651-792-7106 Fax: 651-792-7100 Web: www.cityofroseville.com/parks

Roseville Parks and Recreation - Nature Center 2660 Civic Center Drive Roseville, MN 55113 Phone: 651-792-7104 Web: www.cityofroseville.com/parks

Roseville Skating Center 2661 Civic Center Drive Roseville, MN 55113 Phone: 651-792-7122 Fax: 651-792-7120 Web: www.cityofroseville.com/index.aspx?NID=337

St. Louis Park - The Rec Center 3700 Monterey Drive St. Louis Park, MN 55416 Phone: (952) 924-2546 Fax: (952) 925-5663 Web: www.stlouispark.org

Saint Paul - Como Historic Streetcar Station Park Permit OfficeHamline Avenue North Saint Paul, MN 55108 Phone: 651-632-2445 Fax: 651-632-5115 Web: www.stpaul.gov

Saint Paul - Newell Building Parks Permit Office 1100 Hamline Avenue North Saint Paul, MN 55108 Phone: 651-632-5111 Fax: 651-632-5115 Web: www.stpaul.gov

Thief River Falls Parks & Recreation 525 Brooks Avenue South Thief River Falls, MN 56701 Phone: 218-681-2519 Fax: 218-683-7246 Web: www.citytrf.net

Three Rivers Park District 3000 Xenium Lane Plymouth, MN 55441 Phone: 763-559-6700 Web: www.ThreeRiversParks.org

Vadanis Heights 800 E County Road E Vadnais Heights, MN 55127 Phone: 651-204-6000 Fax: 651-204-6100 Web: www.cityvadnaisheights.com

Waconia - Safari Island Community Center1600 Community Drive Waconia, MN 55387 Phone: 952-442-0691 Fax: 952-442-0692 Web: www.waconia.org

Waseca Water Park 508 S. State St. Waseca, MN 56093 Phone: 507-835-9700 Fax: 507-835-8871 Web: www.wasecawaterpark.com

Washington County Historic Courthouse 101 W. Pine Street Stillwater, MN 55082 Phone: 651-275-7077 Fax: 651-275-7076 Web: www.co.washington.mn.us/hc

Washington County Parks 10191 St. Croix Trail Hastings, MN 55033 Phone: 651-430-8245 Fax: 651-430-8239 Web: www.co.washington.mn.us

Woodbury - Central Park 8595 Central Park Place, Suite 102 Woodbury, MN 55125 Phone: 651-714-3586 Fax: 651-702-1346 Web: www.woodburycentralpark.com

This directory is just a small sampling of some of the park facilities available throughout the state of Minnesota. For more information on facilities in other communities, contact your local park and recreation department.


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fPage NRPA 2010Cat.indd 1 3/5/2010 2:10:47 PM

MINNESOTA RECREATION AND PARKS

Corporate MRPA members are invited to submit CORPORATE CONNECTION briefs, up to 125 words or less, along with a photo (optional) of new products or services, company news, special events or anything related to the profession of parks and recreation. Consideration will be given for future issues of MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks magazine. We reserve the right to edit content. Submissions placed based on when submitted and space availability. Send your article and photos to [email protected] two months prior to publication date.

Energy Efficiency Rebates for Aquatic Facilities

Horizon Commercial Pool Supply is working with local utility providers and equipment manufacturers to help aquatic facilities improve efficiency and cut costs. In many regions there are rebates available for a wide range of improvements in energy efficiency. Some of the qualifying improvements include efficient motors, boilers, solar heat and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs). There are also custom rebates available for increases in efficiency that do not have existing prescriptive rebates.

The most effective and easy to retrofit solution is the installation of a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) on an aquatic facility’s pumps and motors. The VFD controls the speed of the motor to use only the energy needed for optimal flow and extend its life by eliminating large surges in energy and force when starting.

CORPORATECONNECTIONS

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under their feet and hear the ambient sounds through their headphones, for a near total immersion. The workout will take them miles away from your club. Virtual Active™ by Matrix will keep them coming back for more.

For more information please contact Scott Sigety with One Source Fitness at 763-516-5730 or [email protected].

For the first time, you can combine elements of the BCI Burke’s Intensity fitness play complex with scores of activities available for the traditional post-and-platform component system. The result? Nucleus™ - a versatile playground that offers a powerful mix of events combining fun, fitness, creativity, and excitement. All this means kids will be moving and challenging their young bodies and getting healthy in the process. And of course, like all Burke

products, Nucleus & Intensity fusion designs are backed by the unrivaled Generations Warranty™ and Total Cost of Ownership Package™. Earl F. Andersen and Burke—the premium choice for all playground, park, and recreation in Minnesota.

Earl F. Andersen offers revolutionary BCI Burke Nucleus



CONNECTIONS

It takes change to make a change.

Post your pocket change for parks!The Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation is “giving away the bank”. Actually, they’re giving away Playground Post banks (and labels to previous recipients), sponsored by Landscape structures and Flagship Recreation, to MRPA/MRPF members who register and save their pocket change. The Foundation will use the money to assist in financing the New Initiative Grant program. Visit us at the 2010 Annual State Conference for details.

Questions? Contact Michelle Margo at 763-585-7287.

MINNESOTA RECREATION & PARK

Foundation

• Advertising Sales & Design • Exhibits

• Printing & Planning • Magazines & Directories

• Event Marketing • Direct Mail

• Branding & Implementation • Calendars

952.841.1111www.pernsteiner.com

www.cityofapplevalley.org • 952-953-2300 1

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HEALTHYPARKSHEALTHYPEOPLE

You wear a lot of hats in your job, graphic designer shouldn’t have to be one of them.Quality, effective graphic design isn’t a luxury only large

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EIDEM HOMESTEAD - BROOKLYN PARK HISTORICAL FARM JULY 26, 2008

A free day to step back in history.

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www.menomoniechamber.org • 2010 Destination & Living Guide • 1

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201020102010

ATTRACTIONS • DINING • ACCOMODATIONS • SHOPPING • LIVING• EVENTS • EDUCATION




(952) 924-2540 • www.stlouispark.org 1

Experience EVENTS in the Park.

Please join us for these one-day events. Activities are listed in order by date.

Online registration is available for activities requiring advance registration.

Tennis Block Party

Ages 6 and up

Experience the benefits of tennis. Rotate through a variety

of fun lessons run by a professional from the U.S. Tennis

Association. Bring your own racquet or use one of ours.

Door prizes will be awarded.

Saturday, May 17, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Aquila tennis courts, 3110 Xylon Ave. S.

Free Activity # ____

Registration deadline: May 12

Park & Run Fun Runs

All ages

Come join us for a 5K family-friendly run or try the youth

“Almost-a-Mile.” Both courses travel along paved city trails

and around lakes before finishing at the Veterans’ Memorial

Amphitheater in Wolfe Park. All proceeds support the St.

Louis Park Youth Scholarship Fund. Registrants receive a

T-shirt and goodie bag. Park & Run is generously sponsored

by Park Nicollet Heart and Vascular Center, Excelsior &

Grand, Sam’s Club and Citizens Independent Bank.

Sunday, May 18

Registration begins at 8 a.m.

$5 per person

Almost-a-Mile Activity # ____

Starts at 9 a.m. $15 in advance / $18 on day of race

5K Activity # ____

5K run starts at 9:15 a.m.

Wolfe Park, 3700 Monterey Drive

Registration deadline: 8:45 a.m. on race day

Special Events

20th Annual Kiwanis Kite Fly

All ages

Pack a picnic lunch, bring your lawn

chairs and watch the kites take flight.

Or, bring your kite and fly it with

members of the Minnesota Kite Society.

Saturday, April 19, Noon - 4 p.m.

Louisiana Oaks Park, 3400 Louisiana Ave. S.

Free no registration required

Earth Day and Arbor Day Open House

All ages

Get face to face with a live raptor as you celebrate the

Earth. Visit with local organizations to learn simple ways

to make a big impact on our planet. Make a difference by

planting trees or picking up litter. The interactive musical

group “Kidtime with Rachael” will be performing.

Refreshments provided. Bring a lunch and stick around

for a showing of “An Inconvenient Truth” at 12:30 p.m.

See movie description on page __. This event is co-

sponsored by Waste Management.

Saturday, April 26, 10 a.m. - noon

Westwood Hills Nature Center, 8300 W. Franklin Ave.

Free no registration required

Mother’s Day Open House

All ages (children must be accompanied by a paid adult)

Celebrate Mom! Bring her to the nature center and plant

a pot of flowers to take home. Lead her on a spring plants

scavenger hunt in search of beautiful spring wildflowers.

Treat her to a sundae that is out of this world. Come and

enjoy Mom’s special day. Program is open-house style.

Sunday, May 11, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Westwood Nature Center, 8300 W. Franklin Ave.

$4 per person (resident) / $5 (non-resident)

Activity #____

Registration deadline: when program is filled

www.stlouispark.org

APRIL-AUGUST 2008

INSIDE…

18 St. Louis Park

Aquatic Park

22 Westwood Hills

Nature Center

36 The Rec Center Experience

RECREATION

in the Park.

Parks & Recreation

Proud member of MSAE, MAGC and MRPA.

Design · QualityPrice · Selection


WHAT’s GOING ONBy Chad Ubl, Community Services Director, City of Winona

I’m sure the majority of us…

I’m sure the majority, if not all of us in the profession are on board with the get outside, eat right, see your doctor, and do campaigns. It is encouraging to see all the creative ways we collectively say the same thing; eat healthy and exercise. I’m on board for anything, no matter what we call it that promotes a healthy lifestyle. However, once in awhile I like my thirty minutes of sedentary lifestyle. I do my best to catch NBC’s Parks and Recreation but typically the last thing I want to do when I get home is watch the rebroadcast of what I just experienced the previous eight hours. It is entertaining though; if you take a step back and have a sense of humor about local government.

According to Entertainment Weekly, which I consider as certain as death and taxes, Parks will take a break until midseason, but the comedy will insert a new character played by Rob Lowe. This could mean big things for Parks or the insurgence of a new high profile character could signal a life ring being thrown to the comedy. This is where I would like to interject my thoughts.

In my second life I would like to come back as a TV producer. My pitch to NBC would not be a sitcom about Parks and Recreation but it would be a reality show centered on Parks and Recreation.

Here is how I’ve arrived at my ultimate pitch to NBC. I first thought about a show called Aquatic Center: MOA (Mall of America). It would have the same flavor as Ocean Force: San Diego. The show would focus on the training of lifeguards, daily activities, rescues and of course teenage drama. However there is a flaw with this type of

show, I’m pretty sure David Hasselhoff owns the rights to any lifeguarding show.

My next thought was The Real Directors of Anoka County, a spin-off on The Real Housewives series. The problem here is that John VonDeLinde could never play the mean guy and too many nice people work in Anoka County.

Then I was thinking maybe a cross between Project Runway and Celebrity Apprentice. I would challenge a group of interns to create the latest and greatest youth program. I would start by having them develop plans for swim lessons and then script a child throwing up in the pool. They would be judged by three panelists, on their ability to handle the situation. Since I can’t afford Heidi Klum or Donald Trump the judges would be the annual winners of the Jack Niles, Clifton E. French, and Dorothea Nelson awards. The winner of the show would receive an entry level job with the Three Rivers Park District. Of course, I haven’t asked Three Rivers Park District, but it sounds good in concept.

However it is my next appeal to NBC that I think has merit and potentially could get them out of the doldrums of the Jay Leno,

Conan O’Brien spat. I would call the show Base Knock. Base Knock will follow an adult softball team around with cameras for a season, similar to HBO’s Hard Knocks, which follows a NFL team during training camp. Of course I would choose a team that has a lot of controversy; it should not be difficult finding one! Maybe a team that went from C to D based on a roster move or two. I could follow a player going to the DMV to get their license changed in order to be on multiple rosters. I would conduct interviews with the players about why they wear eye black, two batting gloves and break-in their bats by banging them against trees. I could film a player going in front of the MRPA Recreational Sports Commission pleading for a lighter sentence for punching a fellow teammate. I would highlight the college kid that gets $10 per bat rolling and $5 per dozen balls placed in the microwave. And of course, it wouldn’t be exciting if I didn’t highlight the player confessing they used PED’s (performance enhancing drugs) to hit the ball 50 feet farther. I would begin filming the team during spring practice sessions, follow them to Corky’s Early Bird Tournament and then on to the State tournament. We would have hundreds of hours of film to choose from, detailing just how serious adult softball players take their leisure time. And that would only be Season One!

Why do I think this would be a successful show? I wouldn’t have to hire script writers. They couldn’t begin to script more creative stories than the actual day to day doings of ‘adult player softball player.’ You simply can’t make this stuff up.

“My pitch to NBC would not

be a sitcom about Parks and

Recreation but it would be

a reality show centered on

Parks and Recreation.”

Be seen by thousands of potential customers.Reach over 5,000 park and recreation delegates at the 2010 NRPA Congress & Exposition in Minneapolis this October. MINNESOTA magazine will be given to delegates through multiple delivery methods. For advertising details, call Todd at 952-841-1111 or email [email protected]


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Go “green” with your next meeting.

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MINNESOTA RECREATION AND PARK ASSOCIATION200 CHARLES STREET NEFRIDLEY, MN 55432

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