Minnesota Recreation & Parks Magazine Winter 2026

PAWS, PARKS & COMMUNITY SPIRIT

HOW MINNESOTA CITIES ARE CREATING TAIL-WAGGING TRADITIONS THAT BRING NEIGHBORS TOGETHER

• Saint Paul Parks & Recreation Celebrates 10 Years of Halloween Reenactments

MINNESOTA RECREATION & PARKS Register

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

Mary Jo Knudson, Owatonna

Cheryl Kormann, New Ulm

Patrick Menton, Winona

Advertising Sales & Design

Todd Pernsteiner

Pernsteiner Creative Group todd@pernsteiner.com 952.841.1111

MRPA Board of Directors 2026

President: Sonya Rippe, Plymouth

President-Elect: Alex McKinney, Washington County

Past President: Eric Carlson, Apple Valley

Secretary: Tracy Petersen, Edina

Treasurer: Andy Soltvedt, Anoka County

RSC Chair: Chris Morrow, Maple Grove

East Metro: Kelly Distad-Arvold, New Brighton

East Metro: Kellee Omlid, Farmington

East Metro: JJ Williams, Washington County

Northeast Region: Carson Law, Wright County

Northwest Region: Lynn Neumann, Hutchinson

Southern Region: Eric Anderson, Owatonna

West Metro: Nikki Friederich, St. Louis Park

West Metro: Greg Simmons, Golden Valley West Metro: Jenna Smith, Victoria

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 2026 Issue: March 7, 2026

Summer 2026 issue: May 21, 2026

Fall 2026 issue: September 15, 2026

Winter 2027 issue: January 9, 2027

MRPA reserves the right to approve all submitted advertising in MINNESOTA Recreation and Parks magazine.

Cover photo by: Todd Pernsteiner

INSIDE…

2026

Playground Safety Course & Exam

April 29 – May 1, 2026 SBM Fire station #3, Blaine

Dear MRPA Members,

FROM THE PRESIDENT

By Eric Carlson, MRPA President 2025

It is with heartfelt appreciation that I share this final message as your President. It has been a tremendous honor to serve MRPA over the past year, and I am confident the association will continue to thrive with Sonya Rippe at the helm in 2026. The dedication of MRPA members across the state continues to strengthen our organization and ensure it remains a valuable resource for park and recreation professionals throughout Minnesota.

Over the past year, the MRPA Board has accomplished important foundational work, including updates to the bylaws, the manual of procedures, and board member terms, as well as the development of a new membership structure that will be implemented in 2027. If you have questions about any of these updates, I encourage you to reach out to a board member.

The 2025 MRPA Conference was a tremendous success, welcoming a recordbreaking 500 delegates and featuring a sold-out exhibit hall. That’s right—we officially ran out of chairs and vendor swag. Thank you to everyone who planned, attended, presented, and connected in Brooklyn Center. We’re excited to return to Duluth in 2026, so be sure to mark your calendars for October 20–23. Start preparing now—Duluth in October means you can pack a winter coat, sunglasses, and an umbrella and use all of them in the same afternoon.

Thank you to everyone who attended the Annual General Meeting and Awards Luncheon on January 9, 2026, at the Shoreview Community Center. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our award recipients— and enjoy lunch, which in the world

of parks and recreation is always a bonus. Congratulations to all who were recognized.

As you move into 2026, I encourage you to take time to reflect on your accomplishments from the past year—both large and small—and to set clear personal and professional goals for the year ahead. Seek out opportunities to learn, to grow, and to lead, whether through a formal role or by lending your voice and effort where it matters most.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your President and for your continued commitment to MRPA and to the communities you serve.

Best regards, Eric Carlson

Emerging Recreation Leaders Institute 1

Emerging Recreation Leaders Institute (ERLI) 1 program finished on November 13. Thank you to Bloomington Parks and Recreation for hosting the last session. MRPA appreciates the support of this leadership program sponsors: Flagship Recreation, Landscape Structures, and the Minnesota Recreation and Park Foundation. Thank you to the ERLI committee members Alyssa Blanco, Roee Hecht, Mason Moore, and John W. Stutzman. There were 39 individuals registered for this year’s program, which met a total of five dates over the fall season.

Tourism and Event Management Network

The new Tourism and Events Network (TEM) brings MRPA members together to advance the profession, encourage collaboration, and amplify our voice in communicating and advocating for the economic and cultural impact of events and tourism in communities across Minnesota. The network offers a welcoming forum for MRPA professionals in tourism and event management to talk through current topics, challenges, and opportunities. Members can connect both in-person and virtually (when available).

The next meeting will be held on February 3 at 11 a.m. in Chaska. Thank you to network chairs Kari Hemp, with the City of Plymouth and Michelle Margo, with the City of Crystal.

Facilities Network

The Facilities Network has recently started meeting again after taking a hiatus for a few years. This network provides opportunities for MRPA professionals who manage, assist with operating or support recreational and community facilities. This group anticipates meeting four times per year to share best practices related to facility operations, scheduling, staffing, maintenance, capital planning, and customer service. Members can connect both virtually and in person to discuss trends, troubleshoot challenges, and develop resources to enhance the efficiency of public facilities. The next meeting will be held virtually on February 24 at 10 a.m. Thank you to network chairs Claudia Hicks, with the City of Mankato and Dakota Kenyon, with the City of Bloomington.

Thoughtful design shapes vibrant, suatianable spaces where communities connect and thrive. From skating ponds to picnic shelters,

MN-USSSA Tournament & Umpire Director Announced

MN-USSSA welcomes Mark Dallenbach as the new tournament director. Terry Santori has been promoted to as the new umpire director. We look forward to a great 2026 season! MNUSSSA is also grateful to Lacelle Cordes for her dedication to the program over the last eight years. Best wishes, Lacelle!

2026 MN-USSSA Hall of Fame Banquet

The MN-USSSA Hall of Fame Banquet will be held Friday, March 13, 2026 at the Heritage Center in Brooklyn Center. The event is being moved from a January to a March timeframe in hopes of warmer weather and two hours of additional light in the event. We look forward to honoring another great class into the MN-USSSA Hall of Fame!

Robbinsdale Park Added to National Register of Historic Places

Graeser Park in Robbinsdale has officially been added to the National Register of Historic Places, celebrating its rich history and years of dedicated restoration!

The park is currently owned by the Minnesota Department of Transportation and is managed through MnDOT’s Historic Roadside Properties and Wayside Program. Restoration efforts, led in partnership with the community, are nearing their final phase this summer.

Once complete, ownership will be conveyed to the City of Robbinsdale so the park can continue serving as a beloved public green space and gathering spot.

Read the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s full press release at www.robbinsdalemn.gov/ graeserpark

MRPA On The Air Podcast Records at MRPA Annual Conference

MRPA On the Air podcast hosts Meredith Lawrence with the City of Mendota Heights, and Reed Smidt with the City of Woodbury, bring you in-depth discussions on all things parks and recreation across the state of Minnesota, including the most up-to-date MRPA association news. The are joined by fellow Podcast Pack members: Steve Anderson with the City of Little Canada, Nicole Gorman with the City of Edina, Ali Mayer with the City of Winona, Kevin O’Brien with the City of Faribault, Jeff Shelby with the City of Elk River, and John W. Stutzman with the City of St. Peter.

New this year was the MRPA Annual Conference 2025 podcast recording. Hosts Meredith and Reed interviewed Laurie K. Harmon from the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse, Chad Simich from Flagship Recreation, and student member Andrew Blahnik. They set up a makeshift studio in the hallway

for attendees to stop and listen while they recorded.

This season, the podcast has aimed to cover a variety of topics including trends, professional development, and program development/management.

Whether you are a seasoned park and recreation professional, student exploring career options in the profession or somewhere in between, MRPA On the Air offers valuable information and engaging discussions about our profession.

Be sure to listen on either Apple Podcasts or Spotify to these recent podcasts. You can also subscribe and follow to get notification for release of the full episodes. The podcast will be shared in upcoming MRPA emails and will be available at https://mnrpa.org/Podcast

MRPA is grateful to Landscape Structures and Flagship Recreation for their sponsorship of the podcast!

City of Inver Grove Heights Selected as the Future Home of the Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame

The Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame (MNHHOF) is excited to announce the City of Inver Grove Heights as the official location of the future MNHHOF, a 120,000plus square-foot, multi-purpose facility. The project will be located on approximately 40 acres adjacent to Interstate 494 and just east of Vikings Lakes and the Minnesota Vikings training complex.

“Since announcing this legacy project in August, the outpouring of support from players past and present, Minnesota-based companies, and hockey fans statewide has been overwhelming,” said MNHHOF CEO Natalie Darwitz. “We’re truly excited to build our permanent home in Inver Grove Heights, honoring the past and inspiring the future of Minnesota hockey.”

The project is a partnership between Consumer Science North, a private Bloomington-based development company, and the MNHHOF, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, which is guided by a diverse advisory board made up of some of Minnesota’s most influential hockey figures, and supported by an ambassador program of more than 150 men and women who have made lasting contributions to the game in Minnesota.

“The City is thrilled that the Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame has selected Inver Grove Heights as its home, and we look forward to welcoming them to our community,” said Inver Grove

Heights Mayor Brenda Dietrich. “The site is in our Northwest Area, which has long been envisioned for major development, and the Hall of Fame offers the opportunity for new amenities and attractions that will benefit Inver Grove Heights for years to come.”

“Today’s announcement is the first step of many as the project continues to evolve, and I am excited to see the puck drop,” Dietrich concluded.

More than a museum, the Minnesota Hockey Hall of Fame will function as a dynamic, interactive destination. Current plans include:

• 30,000-square-foot museum featuring a Great Hall and five exhibit wings

• state-of-the-art ice rink

• 20,000-square-foot performance venue

• hockey-themed restaurant and taproom

• multiple signature event and community spaces

“As we evaluated several location options, we kept coming back to Inver Grove Heights. The specific site is a clear fit with our vision, said MNHHOF President Andrew Heydt. “Its

E VERYTHING COMMERCIAL FITNESS

central location makes it easily accessible for fans and players. Our vision is to create not only a statewide initiative, but a destination for hockey fans across the country and around the world.”

In addition to honoring Minnesota’s hockey heritage, the Hall will focus on advancing the sport through grassroots programming, traveling exhibits, and statewide youth education initiatives.

Consumer Science North and MNHHOF hope to break ground in 2026, with a grand opening projected for late 2028.

MINNESOTA RECREATION AND PARKS FOUNDATION UPDATE

As we wrap up another meaningful year, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported the Foundation during Give to the Max Day. Your generosity helps us continue our mission to provide equitable access to education and opportunities for the recreation and parks profession throughout Minnesota. We are truly grateful for each donor who chose to invest in the future of our field.

Please join me in congratulating the newly elected and re-elected members of our Board of Directors. We are excited to welcome and continue working alongside:

Their leadership and commitment strengthen the Foundation and support our work statewide.

Finally, it is my honor to congratulate Jody Yungers, the 2025 Ed Brandeen Cornerstone Award recipient. Jody has dedicated years of service to the Foundation, including her time as President, and spent decades contributing to what was once our largest fundraiser, the MRPF Golf Tournament. Her leadership, passion, and commitment have made a lasting impact on both the Foundation and our broader profession. Please join us in celebrating Jody and recognizing her remarkable contributions.

Thank you again to all who help advance the Foundation’s work. We look forward to a strong year ahead, filled with connection, education, and opportunities to support the incredible professionals who serve our communities every day.

- Jennifer Fink, President Minnesota Recreation and Parks Foundation

Please remember to complete your 2026 membership renewal. Reminder, we are a calendar year membership.

If you want to become a member and help provide recreation and park opportunities across the state of Minnesota, visit mnrpf.org/membership-%26-more.

NEW INITIATIVE GRANTS OPEN SOON!

Spring means another round of New Initiative Grants! The New Initiative Grant Program is intended to spur innovation in parks and recreation services at a local, regional, or state-wide level that ultimately could have state-wide impact.

UP TO $4,000 IS AVAILABLE PER GRANT

FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR: programs and services that demonstrate innovation in parks and recreation services for the agency submitting the grant application, with future applicability for other agencies at a local, regional, or state-wide level. Applications that are innovative to the field of Parks and Recreation as a whole are desired.

ELIGIBILITY:

• Each grant must have a sponsoring agency (government or non-profit).

• Applicants must be a MRPF member, or their sponsoring agency must be a MRPF member.

• Grants must be matched by resources, supplies or funds.

• Grant funds must be expended within the agency’s current or upcoming fiscal year in which they were awarded.

• One submission per agency, per grant cycle.

2025 Minnesota Recreation and Park Association Professional Awards

By Bethani Gerhard, Minnesota Recreation and Park Association

The 2025 professional awards ceremony was held January 9, 2026 at the Shoreview Community Center. MRPA recognized members and agencies that have made outstanding contributions to parks and recreation. MRPA extends a special thank you to Landscape Structures, Inc. and Flagship Recreation for their generous support of the awards program.

Clifton E. French Distinguished Service Award

The Clifton E. French Distinguished Service Award is MRPA’s award of highest distinction. The 2025 recipient for this award was Dan Schultz Parks and Recreation Director, City of Rosemount.

Nelson-Niles Award

The Nelson-Niles Award is presented to a professional member with 10-plus years of outstanding service to the parks and recreation profession and to MRPA. The 2025 recipients were Jenna Smith with City of Victoria and JJ Williams with the City of Victoria.

Horizon Award

The Horizon award is presented to a professional member of MRPA with nine or fewer years of professional experience. In order to receive this award, the MRPA member must be an “up and coming” professional and an active contributor to MRPA with great leadership skills. This award was given to Kelly Distad-Arvold with the City of New Brighton and Nicole Greenwell with Anoka County.

Eric Carlson, Jennifer Fink, and Michelle Margo

Gerald B. Fitzgerald Leadership Award

The Leadership Award was presented to Jennifer Fink with the City of New Brighton. This award honors Dr. Gerald B. Fitzgerald’s enduring legacy. In doing so the MRPA Board approved the merger of the Dr. Gerald B. Fitzgerald Award and the Leadership (formerly Special) Award to create the Dr. Gerald B. Fitzgerald Leadership Award.

Tommy Johnson Award

The Tommy Johnson Award was presented to the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. The MRPA Awards Committee selected one “Award of Excellence” project to receive this award for best exemplifying the values that Tommy Johnson was known for: innovation, futuristic, revolutionary and/or creative with ideas and initiatives that helped establish future trends, philosophical change, sharing of new resources and new exciting concepts.

Meritorious Service Awards

ANNUAL CONFERENCE COMMITTEE

Carrie Anderson, City of Roseville

Greg Simmons, City of Golden Valley

ATHLETIC MANAGEMENT NETWORK

David Peters, City of Roseville AWARDS COMMITTEE

Carissa Goebel, City of Brooklyn Center

Stacy Chouinard, City of Crystal LEADERSHIP NETWORK

Jared Flewellen, Eagan Parks & Recreation

Kellee Omlid, Farmington Parks & Recreation

RACE AND EQUITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Crystal Anderson, Maple Grove Parks & Recreation

Ali Mayer, Winona Parks & Recreation

RECREATIONAL SPORTS COMMISSION

Luke Kegley, City of Chanhassen

Board and Commission Award

The Board and Commission Award is given to a member of a citizen’s advisory or policy making board in the parks and recreation profession. The recipient was Linda Klein with the City of Eagan Parks & Recreation.

Congratulations to all MRPA professional award recipients. We look forward to the 2026 Annual General Meeting and Awards Luncheon in January 2027.

Presidential Awards

LACELLE CORDES

MRPA PODCAST COMMITTEE

Steve Anderson Kevin O’Brien

Nicole Gorman Jeff Shelby

Meredith Lawrence Reed Smidt

Ali Mayer John W. Stutzman

LIFEGUARD COMPETITION

Mikayla Beuch Kevin O’Brien

Heather Flock Bridget Russell

Tescha Lindquist Steve Skinner

Megan Mulligan

EMERGING RECREATION LEADERS INSTITUTE 1 PLANNING COMMITTEE

Alyssa Blanco

Roee Hecht

Mason Moore

John W. Stutzman

2025

Clifton E. French Distinguished Service Award

DAN SCHULTZ, ROSEMOUNT PARKS & RECREATION

2025 Clifton E. French Distinguished Service Award Acceptance Speech

By Dan Schultz, Rosemount Parks & Recreation

I am honored and humbled to accept this award. To be recognized in the field that I care so deeply about is incredibly meaningful.

Thank you to Jason Eisold for nominating me and the awards committee for the work you do. Also, congratulations to all of the award winners.

Working in the parks and recreation field is more than a profession - it’s a calling. For all of us, it’s about creating spaces and providing opportunities where people connect, where communities grow stronger, and where everyone—regardless of age, race, background, or ability—can find joy, wellness, and belonging.

I am blessed to say that early in my career, I worked for six people who have won this award.

That is why this recognition isn’t really just about me. It reflects the efforts of so many people I’ve had the privilege to work alongside – co-workers, volunteers, community partners, and mentors. I’m grateful for their support and collaboration.

I want to take a moment and thank Logan Martin, Rosemount City Administrator for his support. He’s great to work with as he brings a funloving attitude and big smile to work every day. It is rare for him to miss a parks and rec special event.

I also want to thank the Mayor Jeff Weisensel. The Mayor truly sees the benefits of parks and recreation and the positive impact it has on our residents. He along with Rosemount’s City Council have championed countless parks projects, programs and special events in our community.

To the parks and recreation department team, this award is being presented to all of us. Without all of you, I would not be accepting this award.

Thank you to Landsape Structures, Inc. and Flagship Recreation for their sponsorship of the Professional Awards program!

A Decade of Trick-or-Treat Yo’ Self

By Liz Carey-Linskey, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation

For the last decade, Saint Paul Parks and Recreation has celebrated Halloween by stepping into the world of Parks and Recreation —the TV series that made local government both hilarious and heartfelt. Since 2016, staff have recreated iconic characters and moments from the show, turning a playful idea into a widely anticipated annual tradition that recently celebrated its 10th year.

The reenactments began when Asha Shoffner, Environmental and Outdoor Education Coordinator, noticed how much the show’s quirky energy mirrored her own experience and decided a spoof was in order. What started as a casual suggestion quickly gained momentum, drawing

enthusiasm from both staff and Saint Paul Parks & Recreation social media followers.

Over time, staff across the department have embraced their roles with dedication, humor, and uncanny accuracy. Certain characters seem to choose their reallife counterparts: the Saint Paul Parks & Recreation Director and Deputy Director naturally step into Ron Swanson and Leslie Knope each year, adding a distinct Saint Paul twist to Pawnee’s most iconic leadership duo. (A staff memory includes the Director meeting with City Councilmembers immediately after a photoshoot—still in full Ron Swanson attire, complete with a gluedon mustache.) Even part-time staff jump

Saint Paul Parks & Recreation Celebrates 10 Years of Halloween Reinactments

in, with the current marketing intern channeling the dry wit of April Ludgate. Each participant brings their own personality to the Saint Paul version of the Pawnee crew.

Behind the scenes, the tradition thrives on collaboration, creativity, and an impressive amount of “we can totally pull this off” confidence. Staff toss around photo ideas (shockingly hard for something that sounds so effortless), recruit cast members, and hunt down outfits and props—usually by raiding personal closets or lost-and-found bins. What started as “everyone swing by the conference room over lunch so we can Photoshop this by the end of the day” has evolved into a more polished production,

Over time, staff across the department have embraced their roles with dedication, humor, and uncanny accuracy. Certain characters seem to choose their real-life counterparts.

When the annual photos hit social media, the reaction is immediate and enthusiastic. Some of the top highlights include shoutouts from actual Parks and Recreation cast members.

thanks to existing cross-department teamwork and tools already used for other city projects. We team up with the City’s Office of Technology and Communications for studio photography, green screen magic (a true game changer), and even custom giphy reenactment. The end result is a small-but-mighty tradition that sparks joy, boosts engagement, and proves that a little silliness, a bit of resourcefulness, and a touch of (manageable) chaos goes a long way in local government.

When the annual photos hit social media, the reaction is immediate and enthusiastic. Some of the top highlights include shoutouts from actual Parks and Recreation cast members, including Rob Lowe (Chris Traeger) and Jim O’Heir (Jerry Gergich), proving that the reach stretches far beyond Saint Paul.

As Saint Paul Parks and Recreation marks 10 years of reenactments, the tradition stands as a joyful reminder of the camaraderie, creativity, and heart that define the profession. It

celebrates public servants who show up for their community every day—and aren’t afraid to have a little fun along the way. Here’s to another decade of Treat Yo’ Self energy for all our fellow Minnesota Parks & Recreation departments.

View all the reenactments on the Saint Paul Parks and Recreation website at www.stpaul.gov/parks-halloween-photo

PICKLEBALL START S HERE

WHAT SURFACE IS RIGHT FOR YOUR OUTDOOR COURTS?

ACRYLIC COURT SURFACE

• Warranty: typically 1-2 years

• Resurface: every 4-5 years

• Average install: 5-7 days

• Ongoing maintenance

p y g- g d y with little maintenance required over the life of the court. Backed by a 15-year warranty, Sport Court pickleball surfaces are specially engineered to absorb shock and prevent fatigue and injury providing a pickleball surface that athletes of all ages and skill levels will enjoy

• 20+ color options

• SportMaster® is the official acrylic of USA Pickleball

• Substantial dry time when wet

• Injury prone hard surface (no shock absorption)

SPORT COURT ® SURFACE

• Warranty: 15 years

• Average life: 25 years

• Average install: 1-2 days

• Little or no ongoing maintenance

• 20+ color options

• Official modular surface for USA Pickleball

• Self-draining, dries quickly

• Proven shock absorption, injury-reducing surface

PAWS, PARKS & COMMUNITY SPIRIT

HOW MINNESOTA CITIES ARE CREATING TAIL-WAGGING TRADITIONS THAT BRING NEIGHBORS TOGETHER

COON RAPIDS PET FAIR

By Stephanie Ring, City of Coon Rapids

Doodles, poodles, pugs and more! The Coon Rapids Pet Fair celebrates dogs, cats and pets of all types each year on the third Saturday of September. What started out as an idea to bring people together to educate about responsible pet ownership in 2015, has grown into an annual tradition for many families filled with opportunities to see educational demonstrations, participate in contests, win prizes, speak with pet-focused vendors and socialize with others in the community. While the event is primarily dog-focused, you will also see cats and occasionally a bearded dragon or snake! Any pet that is city-code approved is welcome to come to the Pet Fair.

The event is organized by two City staff members who work on logistics throughout the year along with their other job duties. On the actual day of the event, a dozen City staff from various

departments come together to help out with all things related to the event. And thanks to a long-standing partnership with Coon Rapids High School, 10 student volunteers assist with running game stations for kids and dogs. The event has even become a family affair for some of the City staff members who bring their children and their spouses to help with set up and tear down…and even making balloon animals for the kids!

Coon Rapids recreation staff members say the Pet Fair allows people to learn about responsible pet ownership but also have a lot of fun at the same time! This community event continues to draw new people as well as loyalists each year - all gathering together to strike up conversation, learn something new, enjoy good food and a “pup cup”… all on a nice fall day.

THIS COMMUNITY EVENT CONTINUES TO DRAW NEW PEOPLE AS WELL AS LOYALISTS EACH YEAR - ALL GATHERING TOGETHER TO STRIKE UP CONVERSATION, LEARN SOMETHING NEW, ENJOY GOOD FOOD AND A “PUP CUP”… ALL ON A NICE FALL DAY.

RAMSEY HAPPY DAYS DOG SHOW

The City of Ramsey’s Happy Days Dog Show is typically held during the city’s Happy Days Festival. The 2025 event brought tails wagging and smiles all around as dogs and their owners gathered for a fun-filled celebration of canine creativity, talent, and charm. Sponsored by Armstrong Ranch Kennels, the event provided a welcoming space for dog lovers to connect, cheer each other on, and show off their furry companions.

Participants registered in advance and received a small goodie bag, with a limited number of walk-up registrations accepted as space allowed. At check-in, each dog was entered into one competition category, ensuring every pup had a chance to shine. Categories included Best Dressed, Top Trick, Silver Snout for dogs ages eight and older, and Cutest Puppy for dogs under one year old. From imaginative costumes to impressive tricks and irresistible puppy antics, the variety kept spectators entertained throughout the event.

ONE OF THE DOG SHOW WINNERS WAS A GERMAN SHEPARD WHO COULD READ.

A panel of judges evaluated each entry based on overall presentation, how well the dog fit its category, and uniqueness or creativity. The friendly competition culminated in a series of awards, including Best in Show as the overall grand prize and The People’s Pooch, which honored the crowd favorite. First-place awards were also presented in each individual category, celebrating everything from senior dogs aging gracefully to puppies stealing hearts.

The event atmosphere was lively and inclusive, with owners proudly supporting their dogs and cheering for fellow participants. The joy of the day was captured in memorable moments, including a woman beaming as she held her Boston Terrier and a proud handler kneeling beside his German Shepherd while holding a trophy.

The Happy Days Dog Show once again proved to be a beloved community tradition, blending friendly competition with connection, laughter, and plenty of wagging tails.

THE HAPPY DAYS DOG SHOW ONCE AGAIN PROVED TO BE A BELOVED COMMUNITY TRADITION, BLENDING FRIENDLY COMPETITION WITH CONNECTION, LAUGHTER, AND PLENTY OF WAGGING TAILS.

TAILS ON THE TRAILS

By Maria Larson, City of New Brighton

The City of New Brighton has held a dog-themed annual event for the past four years called Tails on the Trails. The goal of the event is to get people out into our parks with their dogs, connect residents to resources, provide education around pet safety, and host an overall fun and free event for families. Each year, the event features pet-related vendors, rescue organizations, giveaways, door prizes, demonstrations, and crafts and activities. The event is typically held at Hansen Park in New Brighton, where we can spread out the tables along a long looped trail.

Some of our regular demonstrators have been a Police K9 demo and an agility demonstration. We have also had obedience demonstrations and service dog demonstrations. In order to keep things fresh, we have switched up the activities at the event. Some of the favorites we have done include “doga” (dog yoga), free pup cups, various dog-related crafts, a playground scavenger hunt for kids, and a photo booth.

One of the main drivers of the success of the event is that we have two local pet businesses who have sponsored every year. This

28.3 Million Reasons

THE GOAL OF THE EVENT IS TO GET PEOPLE OUT INTO OUR PARKS WITH THEIR DOGS, CONNECT RESIDENTS TO RESOURCES, PROVIDE EDUCATION AROUND PET SAFETY, AND HOST AN OVERALL FUN AND FREE EVENT FOR FAMILIES.

To help you advocate for tennis expansion in your communit y.

USTA Northern can help you advocate locally with resources, information and tools. Get started with the quick guide to advocating in your community on usta.com/advocacy.

Our mission is to help embrace the health benefits of tennis in support for developing and preserving tennis infrastructure. (952) 887-5001 usta.com/northern

not only provides us with some extra funds to plan free activities and giveaways, but they also help promote the event at their businesses, so our turnout is higher due to their support as well.

One of the best parts of this event is seeing the variety of dog breeds that come- we see everything from little, tiny pups in carriers to large dogs that are towering over the kids. In addition, we love doing this event in the fall when the weather is a little bit cooler and people are looking for an excuse to get outside. We have had some rainy and windy days, but people still show up- the dogs don’t care!

extended pass-along readership, every issue influences more than 2,300 professionals. The publication delivers must-read content on parks management, recreation programs, facilities, aquatics, athletics, trails, nature centers, natural resources, and special events. This trusted publication is relied on by municipal professionals statewide.

YAPPY HOUR IN BURNSVILLE

By Kara Schwenn, City of Burnsville

The City of Burnsville’s Yappy Hour which launched in 2020, celebrated its 5th year in 2025. Bringing pups and their people together for a day of socializing, treats, and tail-wagging fun is the goal of this event.

The 2025 Yappy Hour was held on September 20, 2025, at Alimagnet Park, home to the seven-acre Alimagnet Dog Park. This year’s event welcomed an estimated 200 attendees and featured 21 dog-themed vendors, along with food trucks, giveaways, and plenty of furry friends to meet along the way. Guests enjoyed food and beverages available while exploring activities provided by vendors and the City of Burnsville for both humans and pets.

We saw all different breeds of dogs at the event, from tiny teacup puppies to Great Danes, each bringing their own personality and charm. We loved seeing all dogs alongside their owners enjoying the event. Yappy Hour creates a welcoming, easygoing space for all dog lovers to connect. Whether families stop by to browse vendors or owners come out for a relaxed night with their four-legged companions, the event offered something for everyone. We look forward to the 6th year to be held in 2026.

WE

SAW ALL DIFFERENT BREEDS OF DOGS AT THE EVENT, FROM TINY TEACUP PUPPIES TO GREAT DANES, EACH BRINGING THEIR OWN PERSONALITY AND CHARM.

88 TH ANNUAL MRPA CONFERENCE

MRPA Annual Conference 2025

October 27-30, 2025

Heritage Center of Brooklyn Center Brooklyn Center, Minnesota

ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2025 A HUGE SUCCESS!

MRPA says thank you to all the delegates, volunteers, exhibitors and sponsors of the 88th Annual Conference and Exhibit Hall held October 27-30 at the Heritage Center in Brooklyn Center, MN. The conference included 500 delegates, nearly 90 exhibitors, and numerous sponsors and volunteers. Attendance marked an all-time high for a MRPA Annual Conference! This year’s conference also included many educational sessions and the 3rd Annual Maintenance Rodeo.

THANK YOU 2025 SPONSORS!

Thank you conference sponsors for making this event possible.

2025 CONFERENCE COMMITTEE

The Annual Conference would not be possible without the dedication and commitment of these individuals:

Conference Co-Chairs

Carrie Anderson

Greg Simmons

Programming

Paul Pearson

Aaron Thelen

Carissa Goebel

Ali Lukin

Exhibit Hall

Jeffrey Johnson

Brice Richter

Katie Kalvig

Logistics

Austin Lane

Jessica Montgomery

Marketing

Ali Mayer

Sponsorships

Abby Proulx

Networking

Heidi Batistich

Matt Colwell

Volunteers

Maddy Champa

Jessica Christensen

Buck

IN KIND SPONSORS

Jason Hicks

Noah Ranem

Maintenance Rodeo

Patrick Menton

Jacob Andersen

MAINTENANCE

MRPACONFERENCE

Thank You Exhibitors!

Aerial Illuminations

AIM Electronics, Inc.

All Energy Solar

American Ramp Company

Anderson Race Management M

Aqua Tile

AVE

B32 Engineering M

Bolton & Menk, Inc. M

Booshie Inc.

Broyhill Equipment LLC

Burbach Aquatics, Inc. M

Commercial Recreation

Specialists M

Creative Resources M

Custom Bridges and Boardwalks M Daltile

Damon Farber Landscape Architects M

EZ Dock of the Great Plains

Field Trip Adventures

Fireflies Play Environment, Inc. M

Flagship Recreation M

Gametime Hero M

H+U Construction M

Heritage Professional Products Group M

HGA M

HKGi M

Horizon Commercial Pools M

M = MRPA Corporate Member

inBYLT

ISG, Inc. M

JE Dunn Construction

JLG Architects M

Johnson Commercial Fitness M

Kaizen Labs

Kay Park Recreation

KOMPAN M

Kraus-Anderson Companies M

Larson Engineering, Inc.

LHB, Inc. M

Life Floor M

Loeffler Construction & Consulting

Loucks

Mend Collaborative

EXHIBIT HALL

Mid America Pool

Renovation, Inc. M

Minnesota Recreation and Parks

Foundation M

MRPA Board of Directors

MSA Professional Services, Inc.

Multimedia LED

Musco Sports Lighting M

MWP Recreation M

Northland Recreation LLC M

Oertel Architects M

Outdoorlink Inc. M

PermaTrak

Pernsteiner Creative Group, Inc.

Pleva Commercial Pools Inc. M

PolyScape by Bedford

Premier Polysteel M

QuickScores

Ramaker

Rec Technologies Inc. M

RJM Construction M

Rock Hard Landscape Supply M

Romtec, Inc. M

SafetyFirst Playground

Maintenance M

SiteLogIQ

Sourcewell

Spartan Promotional Group

Splashtacular

Sport Court M

Sports Alliance of Minnesota

Sports Lighting Authority

SRF Consulting Group

St. Croix Recreation M

Stantec M

SwedeBro

Taho Sportswear

Tarkett Sports

Terra Construction M

TKDA M

USTA Northern M

Vermont Systems

Waterplay

Webber Recreational Design, Inc. M

Widseth M

Women in Leisure Services (WILS) M

WSB M

Anderson Race Management

Mary Anderson 651) 688-9143  mary@andersonraces.com andersonraces.com

B32 Engineering Group

Scott Ward (651) 256-3090   scott.ward@b32eng.com b32eng.com

Bituminous Roadways Inc.

Logan Blodgett (651) 686-7001  logan.blodgett@bitroads.com bitroads.com

Bolton & Menk, Inc.

Anne Gode (507) 625-4171  anne.gode@bolton-menk.com bolton-menk.com

Burbach Aquatics, Inc.

Julie Westemeier (608) 348-3262  juliew@burbachinc.com www.burbachaquatics.com

Commercial Recreation Specialists, Inc.

Terese Welch (608) 848-8781  crsmarketing@crs4rec.com crs4rec.com

Creative Resources Agency

Bridget Resig (612) 558-3268  bridget@acreativeresource.com acreativeresource.com

Custom Bridges and Boardwalks

Joe Krebs contact@custommfginc.com custombridgesandboardwalks.com

Custom Builders Inc.

Jeffrey Reiter (320) 443-0107  jeffrey.reiter@custombuildersmn.com custombuildersmn.com

Damon Farber Landscape Architects

Tom Whitlock (612) 332-7522  twhitlock@damonfarber.com damonfarber.com

Daylight Specialists

Jeff May (952) 818-4854  jeff@daylightspecialists.com daylightspecialists.com

Fireflies Play Environment Inc.

Camille Calderaro (612) 990-2969  camille@lunningwende.com firefliesplay.com

Flagship Recreation LLC

Kelly Simich (763) 550-7860  kelly@flagshipplay.com flagshipplay.com

Gametime Hero

Britney Hall britney@gametimehero.com gametimehero.com

Goodmark Nurseries

Melissa Acevedo melissa.acevedo@goodmarknurseries.com goodmarknurseries.com

H+U Construction

Nikki Rugh (612) 438-0258  nrugh@hu-construction.com hu-construction.com

HGA Architects and Engineers

Leah Smith (612) 758-4390 lmsmith@hga.com hga.com

Hoisington Koegler Group Inc.

Eric Blodgett 612) 338-0800  eric@hkgi.com hkgi.com

Horizon Commercial Pools

Andy Verchota (651) 917-3075  andy.verchota@horizonpoolsupply.com horizonpoolsupply.com

HydroApps

Courtney Klein (314) 377-5769  courtneyklein@hydroapps.com hydroapps.com

ISG

Amanda Prosser (952) 426-0699  amanda.prosser@isginc.com isginc.com

MRPA CORPORATE MEMBERS

JLG Architects

Tom Betti (612) 746-4260

TBetti@jlgarchitects.com jlgarchitects.com

Johnson Fitness

Drew Wurst (952) 500-0508  drew.wurst@johnsonfit.com johnsonfitness.com/commercial/ index

Kaizen

John Puma partners@kaizenlabs.co kaizenlabs.co

Kimley-Horn

Ben Sporer (651) 645-4197 ben.sporer@kimley-horn.com kimley-horn.com

KL Engineering

Michael Olstendorf (612) 644-0507 michael.ostendorf@klengineering. com

klengineering.com

Kompan

John Engfer (612) 940-1138  joheng@kompan.com kompan.us

Kraus-Anderson

Eric Quam (612) 332-7281  eric.quam@krausanderson.com krausanderson.com

Landscape Structures

Megan Andrada (763) 972-3391 meganandrada@playlsi.com playlsi.com

LHB, Inc.

Lydia Major (612) 752-6956  lydia.major@lhbcorp.com lhbcorp.com

Lifefloor

Jonathan Keller tradeshow@lifefloor.com lifefloor.com

Mid-America Pool Renovation

Ryan Thompson ryan@poolrenovation.com poolrenovation.com

Midwest Groundcover Express

Blower Service

Justin Crandall (763) 274-9829

midwestgroundcover@gmail.com midwestgroundcover.net

Midwest Playscapes, Inc.

Andrew Pudwill (800) 747-1452  andrew@midwestplayscapes.com midwestplayscapes.com

Musco Sports Lighting

Scott Peitz (763) 533-2030 brooke.hermsen@musco.com musco.com

MWP Recreation

Harlan Lehman (763) 546-7787 harlan@mnwiplay.com mnwiplay.com

National Fitness Campaign

Trent Matthias (415) 794-2008 trent@nfchq.com nfchq.com

Northland Recreation, LLC

Bill Johnson (651) 815-4097 info@northlandrec.com northlandrec.com

Nystrom Publishing Company

Gerry Nystrom (763) 425-7900 gerry@nystrompublishing.com nystrompublishing.com

Oertel Architects, LTD.

Andrew Cooper (651) 696-5186

acooper@oertelarchitects.com www.oertelarchitects.com

Outdoorlink, Inc.

Dave Ramirez (813) 758-7762

dave@outdoorlinkinc.com www.outdoorlink.com

Plaisted Companies

Brian Thunberg (763) 450-9145

bthunberg@plaistedcompanies.com plaistedcompanies.com

Pleva Mechanical Inc

Taylor Stone (515) 438-2279

taylor@plevamechanical.com pleva.org

Premier Polysteel

Tim Solum (507) 301-1655

tim@premierpolysteel.com www.premierpolysteel.com

Radar Talent Solutions

Josiah Misselt (612) 473-2060

josiah@radartalentsolutions.com radartalentsolutions.com

RJ Thomas Manufacturing / Pilot Rock

Justin Jorgensen (712) 225-5115 jjorgensen@rjthomas.com pilotrock.com

RJM Construction

Brad Barickman (952) 837-8600

brad.barickman@rjmconstruction.com rjmconstruction.com

Safety First Specialty Contracting, Inc.

Charles Bot (320) 496-9118

charles.bot@safetyfirstplayground.com www.safetyfirstplayground.com

Snow Kreilich Architects

Alita Major (612) 752-0261

alita@snowkreilich.com snowkreilich.com

Sports Lighting Authority

Harlan Gallop

hgallop@sportslightingauthority.com www.sportslightingauthority.com

SRF Consulting Group Inc.

Ken Grieshaber (763) 475-0010

kgrieshaber@srfconsulting.com srfconsulting.com

You

wear a lot of different hats, graphic designer doesn’t have to be one of them!

If your small team is stretched thin, you need a reliable partner who can jump in and lighten the load. Pernsteiner Creative Group specializes in park and recreation marketing and brings decades of experience working with municipal clients across the country. We deliver results with minimal ramp-up time, offering affordable, effective design and marketing solutions tailored to help you maximize every dollar and every minute. Think of us as the creative extension of your team—ready to tackle projects and keep things moving smoothly. When you’re ready to get things done, we’re here for you!

Solutions for All Your Marketing Needs

• Graphic design

• Flyers & posters

• Direct mail

• Presentations

• Signage & displays

• Strategic plans

• Brochures & catalogs

• Social media campaigns

• Marketing management

• Printing & mailing

• Advertising & sponsorships

• Incentive products

Who We’ve Partnered With

• City of Apple Valley

• City of Bloomington

• City of Eden Prairie

• City of Edina

• City of Galt

• City of Hopkins

• City of Inver Grove Heights

• City of Maple Grove

• City of Minnetonka

• City of Norwalk

• City of San Jose

• City of St. Louis Park

• City of Woodbury

• Great Neck Park District

• California Recreation & Park Society

• Illinois Association of Park Districts

• Minnesota Recreation & Park Association

Need a design and marketing partner?

Contact Todd Pernsteiner: (952) 841-1111

todd@pernsteiner.com

www.pernsteiner.com

MRPA CORPORATE MEMBERS

St. Croix Recreation

Hannah Johnsen (651) 430-1247

hannah@stcroixrec.com www.funplaygrounds.com

Synthetic Turf Solutions of MN

Mark Prince (651) 341-7763

mark@synthetic-turf-mn.com synthetic-turf-mn.com

Terra Construction

Alysia Karger (763) 202-2819 akarger@terragc.com terragc.com

TKDA

Kathleen Anglo (651) 292-4400 holly.ball@tkda.com

Kathleen.Anglo@tkda.com tkda.com

USTA Northern

Pat Colbert (952) 887-5001

colbert@northern.usta.com northern.usta.com

Webber Recreational Design

Jay Webber (651) 438-3630

customerservice@webberrec.com www.webberrec.com

Widseth

Jillian Reiner (320) 335-5011

jillian.reiner@widseth.com windseth.com

WSB & Associates, Inc.

Candace Amberg (763) 231-4848 camberg@wsbeng.com www.wsbeng.com

From vibrant schoolyards to inclusive community parks, our playgrounds are crafted to spark imagination and support every stage of play. With decades of experience, cutting-edge design, and a passion for play, we bring your ideas to life.

Our projects feature:

• Custom-themed play structures

• Inclusive play zones

• Nature-inspired designs

• Sensory areas

• Durable, eco-friendly materials

We partner with brands that we trust. In turn, we can produce safe, sustainable, and inspiring playgrounds. Each project reflects our commitment to creativity, quality, and community.

Ready to build your next playground?

Explore our portfolio and see how we turn ideas into places where kids thrive.