MPRA 2015 Conference Program

2015 ANNUAL CONFERENCE & EXPO

February 24-27 University Plaza Springfield, MO

2015 ANNUAL CONFERENCE & EXPO

February 24-27 University Plaza Springfield, MO

2 2015 MPRA Conference | www.mopark.org2

#MPRA2015 | 2015 MPRA Conference 3

Welcome Letter Hotel MapThank You SponsorsThank You CommitteeImportant Conference InformationOff-Site Tours Conference App

Tuesday, February 24 Tuesday At A Glance Session Listings Social Information Wednesday, February 25 Keynote General Session Schedule Expo Information Wednesday At A Glance Session Listings Alumni Socials Social Information

Thursday, February 26 Thursday At A Glance Frosty Fun A Thon Take a Student to Lunch Session Listings Awards Banquet & Social Information Friday, February 27 Meeting Times & Locations

Exhibitor ListingsUpcoming MPRA Events & Future Conference Dates

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2018 William StreetJefferson City, MO [email protected]


4 2015 MPRA Conference | www.mopark.org

a r c h i t e c t u r e | l a n d s c a p e a r c h i t e c t u r e | u r b a n p l a n n i n g | i n t e r i o r s

H e l z b e r g P e n g u i n P l a z aK a n s a s C i t y , M O

L e a M c K e i g h a n P a r k - L e e ’ s S u m m i t , M O

B l u e E a r t h P l a z a - M a n h a t t a n , K S

Welcome to Springfield and the 2015 MPRA Conference! It’s been eight years since we brought MPRA’s “Big Show” to Springfield and it’s fair to say that many good things have happened throughout the entire Southwest Region during that time. Our Conference Committee has worked hard to make your 2015 MPRA Conference experience a most memorable one. We think this year’s conference theme, “State of Health & Happiness,” lends itself perfectly to our thought-provoking educational sessions, interesting off-site tours, interactive expo hall, opportunities for student involvement, and of course – really fun and unique social events!

Our Keynote Speaker, Mark Fenton, is a national public health, planning and transportation consultant, former host of “America’s Walking” Series on PBS, and an adjunct associate professor at Tufts University’s Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. He is a vocal advocate for non-motorized transportation, a frequent consultant on bicycle and pedestrian community plans, and a recognized authority on public health and policy initiatives that encourage additional walking, bicycling, and transit use. Mark will also be hosting additional hands-on sessions on Wednesday afternoon – you will love this guy’s message!

As always, the true showcase of our 2015 MPRA Conference is Thursday night’s Awards Banquet. We will once again celebrate our fellow professionals, policy makers, and volunteer groups and individuals that have done great things on behalf of our field. We’re also honored to welcome the newest inductees into the Missouri Recreation and Parks Hall of Fame.

So have some fun while in Springfield! We invite you to embrace those new opportunities you’ll have as well as the chance to reconnect with old friends. By doing so, we have no doubt you’ll find your very own “State of Health & Happiness!”

Sincerely, Sincerely,

Phil Stiles, CPRP Bob Belote, CPRP 2014-15 MPRA President 2015 MPRA Conference Chair


Expo Center

Grand Ballroom Convention Center

University Plaza Hotel333 John Q. Hammons Parkway

• 271well-appointedguestroomsandsuites• 39,000squarefeetofmeetingspace,including21differentmeetingroomsandbanquetfacilitiesforupto4,000people• On-siteprofessionalmeetingandcateringstaff• BusinessCenter• CasualdiningatParkPlacerestaurant• Fullyequippedexercisefacility• Locatedintheheartofthehistoricandculturaldistrictandonly30minutesfromBranson,SilverDollarCity,andTableRockLake

625 E St Louis St. (Across the road from the Convention Center)


2nd Wind Exercise EquipmentAll Inclusive Rec

BagSpot Pet Waste SolutionsBBN Architects, LLC

Confluence (Tuesday Social Sponsor)

Counsilman Hunsaker & AssociatesCunningham Recreation

(Delegate Gift & Wednesday Social Sponsor)

Fry & Associates, Inc. GameTime

(Wednesday Social Sponsor)

Hood-Rich ArchitectureLandscape Structures

(Keynote Sponsor)

McCownGordon ConstructionMiracle Recreation

(Tuesday Social Sponsor)

Musco LightingPlanning Design Studio

Push Pedal PullSAPP Design Associates

Springfield-Greene County Park BoardSSCI – Operation TLC2

SWT DesignVermont Systems

Conference CommitteeAdministrative/Legal Committee Bob Belote, Karen Herron, Lana Woolsey Program Committee Kim Reser, Jill Simmons, Bill Ingemi Sponsorship Committee Craig Luetkemeyer, Diana TyndallOff-Sites Committee Jeff Cumley, Terry Whaley, Mike Crocker Transportation & Signage Committee Miles Park, Matt Coats, Dennis McMan Expo Hall Committee Jon Carney, Trey Metzilthin, Tom Moore, Jon Chamberlin, Tom Highfill Social/Events Committee Anne-Mary McGrath, Diana Tyndall, Robert Uckele, Maria Johnston, Cindy Jobe Auction Committee Crissy Withrow, Chad Beasley, Maria Johnston, Audra Schupbach, Karen Herron, Amanda Becker Room Host Committee Brad Stulce, Diana Lung, Steve Webb, Keith Ernce Student Activities Committee Susan McLeod, Ashleigh Lewellen, Larry Bennett, Amy HaysTechnology Committee Tim McCrea, Tom Adams Awards Committee Craig Feldt, Jenny Edwards Hall of Fame Committee Ann Schroeder, Miki McKee-Koelsch, Bettie Yahn-Kramer, Jim Kent, Richard Ash, Mary Vaughan, Charlie Barr, Roscoe Righter, Bob Belote Promotion Committee Jenny Edwards, Kristen Milam Budget Committee Jerry Mitchell, Bob Belote SW Region 3 Committee Samantha Payne, Susan McLeod

MPRA President – Phil StilesPresident-Elect – Kirsten BarnesImmediate Past-President – Terry Robertson

Conference Sponsors


Important Conference InformationCEU ProceduresTo receive conference CEUs:1. You must pay the conference $20 CEU fee. Fee covers all conference sessions and tours.2. After paying the $20 CEU fee, you will receive a 2015 MPRA Conference CEU card that is good for the entire conference. Take this CEU card with you to each session offering CEUs.3. As you enter each session, your room host will initial your card. At the completion of each session, your room host will punch your card for certification. You will not receive credit for your session unless your card is both initialed and punched by the room host.4. At the end of the conference, please return your card to the MPRA registration desk.5. MPRA will send your conference CEU transcripts to you 4-6 weeks following conference.6. NRPA now administers the CPRP program. It will be your responsibility to retain all CEU documentation and send copies to NRPA if requested.

Evaluations Please complete an evaluation for each educational session you attend, as well as the overall conference evaluation, which will be emailed to you after the conference.

Name Badge Registration is required to attend all conference events and to enter the Exhibit Hall. A MPRA delegate without their badge will not be admitted to the exhibit area, educational sessions or social events. Lost badge replacement is $10 with appropriate identification.

MPRA Registration Desk Hours Tuesday 8:30 am - 6:00 pm Wednesday 7:00 am - 6:00 pm Thursday 8:00 am - 5:30 pm

Smoking Smoking is not permitted during educational sessions.

Use of Alcoholic Beverages Use of alcoholic beverages is restricted to those 21 years old or above. Conference attendees will be carded. You must bring a proof of age ID to all social functions.

Cell Phones Please turn off all cell phones and pagers while in educational sessions.

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Bears vs. Panthers Sports Facility Tour 0.3 CEUTuesday, February 24, 1:00 – 5:00 pmA polar bear and a panther walk into a bar….and both decide to build a sports venue. For the sports facility manager, special events administrator or folks interested in sustainable design, this is your opportunity to see three diverse facilities. First, check out Drury University’s O’Reilly Family Events Center, proud home of the Drury Panthers basketball and volleyball teams. Opened in 2010,

it’s known for great concerts and special events for up to 3,600 with great views from any seat. This facility is LEED Gold Certified and completely green by recycling all waste, using low flow water

practices, and keeping cool in summer by utilizing highly solar reflective building materials. Next we’ll “chill out” at Mediacom Ice Park, operated by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board and home to the Missouri State University Ice Bears Hockey program, as well as local youth hockey and figure skating. Learn about how this beautiful facility is staffed, funded, and operated on a year-round basis. Finally, we’ll head over to the Springfield Skate Park for a look at the many new improvements and amenities provided at this indoor-outdoor Park Board facility.

Cost: $30 Transportation: Bus Lunch: No Min: 5 Max: 24

The How-Factor and Wow-Factor of Sustainable Facility Design 0.3 CEUTuesday, February 24, 1:00 – 5:30 pmIt’s time to learn about proper planning for sustainability and energy savings in a recreation facility. Using the LEED Scorecard, learn about sustainable sites, water efficiency, healthy air and energy, recyclable materials and the proper indoor environment to enhance the long-term viability of your next recreation center project. If you’re in man-agement, planning, design or maintenance - this is your workshop. This tour includes three unique community recreation centers. Opened just two years ago, Spring-field’s Dan Kinney Family Center showcases the Miracle League Accessible Ballfield and Springfield’s first uni-versally-accessible playground. Next, travel to Ozark to visit the “OC” – a community cen-ter that meets the community’s needs for “affordable, top-notch facilities with state-of-the-art equipment and in-novative programs.” Finally, we finish with the City of Republic - a community of 14,000 that offers its citizens first-class recreation with its community center, state-of-the-art aquatics facility and a brand new amphitheater.


Trails of the Past,Trails of the Future 0.3 CEUTuesday, February 24, 1:00 – 5:30 pmFrom a 184-year-old Native American foot trail to a state-of-the-art mountain bike trail, this on-site workshop involves walking and single-track trail biking. Learn about Greene County’s recent efforts to recover sections of the Cherokee Trail of Tears, which once passed through the community. Participants will walk a one-mile section of the Trail of Tears under development, learn about Cherokee history specific to the area, and hear about the vision for this historic trail’s future. The National Park Share your photos and comments

throughout the week by using #MPRA2015 on your social media.


Service/Rivers, Trail, and Conservation Assistance Program supported this project – learn how it might benefit your community, too. The tour then proceeds south to the newly-developed 400-acre Two Rivers Mountain Bike Park, just off the scenic confluence of the Finley and James rivers. A privately-built, multi-use trail system, Two Rivers boasts 8.5 miles of near-pristine Ozarks terrain for mountain bikers, runners, and hikers. Its trails cover natural surfaces and offer the thrills of climbing and drop sections, rock features, built-in curved walls and other optional stunts. Learn about the park’s development, funding, and partnerships, including mountain bike advocacy groups. Bring your own bike and helmet.

Cost: $35 Transportation: Bus/Bike Lunch: No Min: 10 Max: 20

Bows & Bears Tour 0.2 CEUWednesday, February 25, 2:30 – 5:30 pmYou can’t make this stuff up! Discover how road projects sparked the evolution of two unusual attractions. First we’ll visit the Archery Complex at the Davis Property and learn how surplus county road right-of-way presented an opportunity for Springfield’s Community Olympic Development Program to expand and showcase its Archery Program. We’ll explore both the indoor and outdoor archery ranges plus discuss possible future uses for this park site. Just across the road is a porthole to pre-history, Riverbluff Cave and the Missouri Institute of Natural Science. The cave, discovered Sept. 11, 2001 while highway crews were blasting a hillside for a new roadway, is the oldest Ice Ace fossil cave in North America. Learn the breathtaking story and ongoing challenges and see one-of-a-kind artifacts unearthed on this amazing site.


Unique and Special Facilities Tour 0.2 CEUWednesday, February 25, 2:30 – 5:30 pmThe Springfield-Greene County Park Board boasts some of the most diverse facilities in Missouri! See it first-hand as you visit Cruse Dog Park, “all the rage” for Springfield’s canine popu-lation. The extremely popular Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park is just down the road, where staff will be on-hand to provide a behind-the-scenes facility tour. Finally, the tour wraps up at Lake Springfield Park, boast-ing a number of unique trails, outdoor facilities and the beautiful Lake Springfield Boathouse and Marina. This picturesque amenity serves to facilitate seasonal water activities and popular facility rentals throughout the year. But please don’t dally on this one - this tour is certain to fill up quickly!


National Demonstration Sites of a Gold Medal Park System 0.3 CEUThursday, February 26, 8:00 – 11:30 amThis innovative on-site session will tour national demon-stration sites for nature play within the Springfield-Greene County Park System. Sites and themes include interactive play with nature amenities, a botanical setting, school-park environments, and park pathways and trails. Learn how cutting-edge research and national trends in the playground industry have served to enhance facilities for the Springfield-Greene County Park Board and Springfield Public Schools. See a variety of unique facilities that have benefited local children, families, and neighborhoods by allowing them to spend countless hours in nature and ac-companying park settings.


Visit the registration desk to sign up for off-site tours.


Dip & Dive Tour 0.3 CEUThursday, February 26, 8:00 – 11:30 amIt may be late February, but you might want to bring a towel because you’ll be salivating over these amaz-ing aquatics-oriented facilities. Starting with the Doling Aquatics Center, you’ll see an array of new family-orient-ed indoor pool improvements completed in 2013. Our tour then moves to Drury University to observe and hear about the Drury Natatorium renovation project as well as the latest in aquatic event and activity programming for college campus users. Wrap up the tour at the Missouri State University’s Foster Recreation Center, the new-est aquatic facility in town. This state-of-the-art aquatics center is just one of the $50 million in recreation projects completed at MSU in the last two years.


Northbound Bike Tour 0.2 CEUThursday, February 26, 1:00 – 4:00 pmWhen they said, “Go west, young man,” others went north, and north of Springfield is where you’ll explore the developing South Dry Sac Greenway Corridor, includ-ing innovative trail development and many cultural and open space resource opportunities. This bike and hike tour explores the acquisition and development process of trail easements. We’ll visit Lost Hill Natural Resource Park and hear about the dream of creating a trail from the park across two landfills. Next you’ll experience a short but sce-nic 11-percent trail grade before we end at the Sac River Mountain Bike Trailhead, viewing the volunteer-built trailhead shelter constructed from re-purposed materials. We will also discuss more about future site improvements, mountain biking trends and bike eco-tourism initiatives. Bring your own bikes and helmets.

Cost: $35 Transportation: Biking Lunch: No Min: 5 Max: 15

Field of Dreams 0.2 CEUThursday, February 26, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. If they had all of this stuff back when we were in school, we might still be there! Collegiate recreation for students is not what it used to be – it’s WAY better! This walk-ing field trip of the Missouri State University Campus includes discussion on planning, funding, designing and construction of a student-oriented recreation facility. Re-flecting a $50+ million investment, it includes the Foster Recreation Center, Plaster Football Stadium renova-tion, and soccer, track, field hockey and sand volleyball facility upgrades. Even if you’re not a Bear, you’re sure to be amazed!

Cost: $20 Transportation: Walking Lunch: No Min: 5 Max: 25

Bike Around Downtown 0.2 CEUFriday, February 27, 9:00 - 11:45 amThis is an active participatory on-site workshop and bike tour capturing Downtown Springfield and the community’s advances in making Springfield a Bicycle Friendly Community. Experience “The Link” and Ozark Greenways’ “Let’s Go Smart” advocacy programs. Tour includes planning, design features, project background, funding, and the community input process for the area’s long term vision. Destinations include the West Meadows - an EPA Brownfield Project and future trail along the Jordan Creek Greenway, as well as urban trail sections connecting the historic Silver Springs Park and Smith Park in which Jordan Creek, once routed through an urban culvert, has been “day-lighted” as a trail and stormwater improvement project – and a beautiful amenity for the community. Bring your own bikes and helmets.

Cost: $30 Transportation: Biking Lunch: No Min: 5 Max: 15

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Featured Presenter:

Chris Nunes, CPRE, is the Director of Parks and Recreation in The Woodlands, Texas. In that position, he oversees 80 full-time and 350 part-time staff members, and a $16 million operational budget. Chris serves on numerous state and national committees in parks and recreation and has presented 135+ sessions on topics including: business plans, contracting, creative programming, marketing, and many more. Catch Chris on Thursday in Kansas C!

Featured presenters are noted in green throughout your program.

MPRA Welcome SocialTuesday, February 24th 6:00 - 8:00 pmSpringfield Brewing Company - 305 South Market Ave

• Networking Bingo• Light appetizers• Cash bar - $10 pitcher special• Shuttle Service Available

Sponsored by:

Chris Nunes

NEW FOR 2015: Download the MPRA Conference Smartphone App!The Missouri Park and Recreation Association (MPRA) is offering a free mobile app for the 2015 Annual Conference allowing users access to venue information, daily schedules, education sessions, speaker information, and exhibitor listings and location within the exhibit hall.

The app also provides notices from MPRA with the most up to date information about the 2015 conference.

Search MPRA in your phone’s app store to download it today!

Share your photos and comments throughout the week by using #MPRA2015 on your social media.


Tuesday at a Glance 8:30 am - 6:00 pm Registration Desk Open 9:00 am - 12:15 pm Off-Site Tours (see page 8) 11:00 am - 1:00 pm MPRA Board Meeting in Illinois 1:00 pm - 5:30 pm Off-Site Tours (see page 8) 1:00 pm - 4:45 pm Education Sessions 2:20 pm - 4:45 pm Student & New Professionals Section Meeting in Colorado A 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Social - Springfield Brewing Company *featured presenters are noted in green

1:00 – 2:05 pm The Kansas City Parks and Boulevard System: Listing an Historic Landscape (DSG) Colorado A, 0.1 CEU Kansas City’s System of Parks and Boulevards designed by George Kessler and Hare & Hare is one of the most significant designed landscapes in the United States. This session will present an overview of the system and the National Register nomination. The panel will discuss the process of documentation and nominating a designed landscape. PJ Novick, Cydney Millstein

Considerations, Concerns and Solutions for Youth Training (FIT) Colorado B, 0.1 CEU Youth training is a hot topic in the health and fitness world because today’s youth will influence future generations regarding healthy lifestyles. We will touch on positives and negatives of youth training in our facilities along with experience, problem-solving, and personal philosophies. Tyler O’Banion, Jordan Kirbey

Urban Deer Management (PNR) Arkansas A/B, 0.1 CEU Whitetail Deer populations in urban areas of Missouri have been increasing rapidly over the past decade. Overpopulation of deer can have negative impacts on natural habitats, as well as increasing vehicle-deer collisions. This session will focus on Kansas City, MO, and the Urban Managed Deer Hunt partnership between the Missouri Department of Conservation and Kansas City Parks and Recreation. Joseph DeBold, Forest Decker

Operation and Maintenance of an Indoor Pool (AQS) Lake of the Ozarks, 0.1 CEU There are huge differences in the requirements for maintaining indoor and outdoor pools. If you’re new to the indoor pool world, or need a refresher, this session is for you! Doug Simmons, Jody Tindle, Dan Jones

Excellence in Youth Sports Award Winner (SPO) Kansas A, 0.1 CEU Jefferson City Parks and Recreation, the 2014 NAYS Excellence in Youth Sports Award Winner, will present on the process of applying for and winning this national award. Staff will also highlight their youth sports programs and how they coordinate them. Hear about how to nominate coaches and parents for these prestigious awards, too. Angie Toebben

3 C’s of Engaging With Your Staff: Coaching, Communicating and Connecting (DEV) Kansas B, 0.1 CEU Come explore language and techniques to connect with your staff in a coaching format vs. stale old supervisory format. The current generation expects more from their employer and we will discuss ways to do that. We will top it off with a roundtable discussion. Chad Beasley

Effective Marketing Start to Finish (M&C) Kansas C, 0.1 CEU Effective marketing is more than placing an ad in the paper and hoping it works. With so many websites to browse, channels to watch, and publications to read, marketing can seem fragmented. Learn how to create a message and implement it across multiple advertising media to work for your organization. Angela Smith, Emily Dale

2:20 – 3:25 pm POUNDFit - Rock Out Work Out (FIT) Colorado B, 0.1 CEU Channel your inner rock star and experience the newest full body cardio jam session combining light resistance with simulated drumming. Using weighted Ripstix, POUND fuses cardio, Pilates, and isometric movements to burn up to 900+ calories per hour, all while sculpting a leaner, fitter you! Jen Keets, Steve Webb


AQS - AquaticsDEV - Professional DevelopmentDSG - Design FIT - Fitness KEY - Keynote BreakoutSPO - Sports

M&C - Marketing & CommunicationsM&L - Management & LeadershipPNR - Park & Natural Resources PRO - Programming & Special Events

Methods for Acquiring and Disposing of Equipment, Materials and Supplies (PNR) Arkansas A/B, 0.1 CEU This session will provide an overview from three different agencies that assist parks and recreation departments with the sale, donation, or disposal of equipment. We all have “stuff” sitting in our facilities or equipment shops that could be of great value to another organization or we ourselves are searching for a unique part that is hard to find. These agencies can help you out! Carol Wollard, Chris Houghton, Lee-Ann Braun

The Golden Rule (AQS) Lake of the Ozarks, 0.1 CEU Training frontline teams can entail everything from CPR to cleaning toilets. We often assume they bring basic guest service skills with them on their first day… and they do! Learn how to use what your team already knows to navigate daily interaction with guests, handle conflicts, and create a WOW! experience that will keep people coming back for more! Kirsten Barnes

Structuring Your Sports Leagues for Success (SPO) Kansas A, 0.1 CEU A common component of a full-service recreation department is sports leagues, youth and adult. In this session we will explore steps and systems that you can put in place to make your league offereings successful, safe, and sustainable. Darin Barr

Writing for Non-Writers (DEV) Kansas B, 0.1 CEU Do you hide when your boss asks for contributions to the department’s newsletter or freeze when facing a blank word document? Join a graduate of the world-famous Missouri School of Journalism and longtime professional writer for a workshop that will provide tons of practical tips to build your writing confidence. Lisa Groshong

A Guide to Legislative Affairs (M&L) Kansas C, 0.1 CEU Making your voice heard with local and state legislators can seem like an intimidating prospect, but it’s important to get involved in the issues that impact us. By hearing from their constituency, legislators will have a better idea on what is important to their communities. It’s critical - and it’s really not that difficult! Hear from MPRA friends in-the-know - including a former legislator - about how to get your feet wet without getting in over your head. JC Kuessner

3:40 – 4:45 pm Easy, Effective Solutions for Cardio Fitness Entertainment (FIT) Colorado B, 0.1 CEU This session is a detailed dive into how to integrate your current fitness equipment and TVs to reduce confusion and create a more enjoyable user experience. Learn about the digital transition and discuss the future of technology and how to be prepared. Lisa Miceli, Tim DePumpo

Native Prairies - Description, Restoration, Management and Reconstruction (PNR) Arkansas A/B, 0.1 CEU Missouri’s rarest and most diverse native habitat is prairie. Less than 1% of the original prairie remains in the state. Learn about what defines a prairie, how to restore and manage this incredible system and also hear how biologists are reconstructing prairies. David Darrow

American Red Cross Aquatics - Poolside Chat (AQS) Lake of the Ozarks, 0.1 CEU Join your Red Cross Aquatics and Aquatic Provider representatives as they give you an in-depth look at new programs slated for release in 2015. The new Learning Maintenance System will be covered, plus a discussion of new policies and processes for Red Cross programs and other relevant information for instructors, managers, and supervisors. Matthew Ball

The Amateur Sports Tax Credit Program (SPO) Kansas A, 0.1 CEU The Amateur Sporting Tax Credit (ASTC) Program is a new tool for attracting more amateur sporting events to the State of Missouri. Come learn the ins and outs of the ASTC Program, including what types of events best fit this new incentive. Nathan Potter

NRPA PRORAGIS (DEV) Kansas B, 0.1 CEU PRORAGIS is a one-stop resource for agencies to store and manage their operating and GIS mapping data. As a national database, the power of PRORAGIS is its ability to run comparative reports to help agencies effectively manage and plan their resources and facilities. Learn how to upload your park data into this database and export reports for benchmarking your department. Julie Boland, Shay Terrell

Powerful Purchasing (M&L) Kansas C, 0.1 CEU There’s a wide range of puchasing options currently available, and it can be hard to confidently choose. Leave this session feeling more powerful in your purchasing decisions! Jon Carney, Todd Cox


Don’t miss the Keynote Address by Mark FentonMark Fenton is a nationally recognized public health, planning, and transportation consultant, adjunct associate professor at Tufts University, advocate for active transportation, and former host of “America’s Walking”on PBS television. He’s consulted with the University of North Carolina’s National Center for Safe Routes to School and has led training and planning processes for pedestrian-, bicycle-, and transitfriendly designs in communities across the United States.

Mark studied engineering and biomechanics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he earned BS and MS degrees, and the US Olympic Training Center. He was manager of the Human Performance Laboratory at Reebok, and has written articles related to exercise science, physical activity promotion, and community interventions, as well as several publications. He also tries to practice what he preaches, serving on his community’s planning board, and walking or cycling for as many routine trips as possible.

9:40 - 10:45 am Keynote Address 0.1 CEUCreating Stickier Communities with Parks and RecreationSimply encouraging people to exercise has not stemmed the nation’s rising tide of chronic disease and obesity. The real answer is designing our communities so that physical activity becomes a way of life. But this will only happen if parks and recreation professionals help lead the charge on “sticky design,” applying park and recreation principles to all aspects of community development. This engaging and thought provoking presentation will lay out the evidence for community designs that not only boost community health, but also economic vibrancy, environmental sustainability, and overall quality of life.

Wednesday General Session Schedule Oklahoma/Illinois 8:30 am – Opening Comments and Welcome 8:40 am – State of the Association 8:50 am – Swearing in of Board of Directors 8:55 am – NRPA Update 9:00 am – Region/Section Awards Presentation 9:40 am – Keynote Presentation by Mark Fenton (0.1 CEU) 10:45 am – Dismissal to Exhibit Hall

Section Meetings: Wednesday 11:00 am - Noon

Fitness Section - Expo C

Aquatics Section - Expo D

Sports Section - Expo E

Park Resources Section - Expo F/G


Expo Hall Wednesday, February 25th 11:00 am – 3:00 pmSpringfield Expo Center - 625 E St. Louis Street (across from University Plaza)

You won’t want to miss the excitement this year in the expo! Over 100 companies will be on display with the latest and greatest products and services in the Park and Recreation industry. Door prizes and other activities will add to the enjoyment while you are checking it all out. Keynote

presenter, Mark Fenton, will be in the expo hall offering some mini-sessions that are sure

to be a hit!

Lunch served: 11:30 – 1:00 (ticket required)Dessert/Refreshments

will be served in the hall from 1:00 – 2:00 pm.

Wednesday General Session Schedule Oklahoma/Illinois 8:30 am – Opening Comments and Welcome 8:40 am – State of the Association 8:50 am – Swearing in of Board of Directors 8:55 am – NRPA Update 9:00 am – Region/Section Awards Presentation 9:40 am – Keynote Presentation by Mark Fenton (0.1 CEU) 10:45 am – Dismissal to Exhibit Hall

1:00-3:00 pm Fenton Mini-session Leading Health and Fitness Walks Walking is America’s favorite exercise, and can be done by just about anyone, at any fitness level. This quick overview will include a simple walking warm-up routine, basic technique tips--including the secret to turning a walk into an intense workout--and easy do-anywhere post-walk stretches. We’ll also learn the top injury prevention exercises, and answer your questions about the ultimate exercise. We’ll then work to take a fun-filled lap around the MPRA Exhibit Hall to try out our new skills! Roughly 20 minutes, on each half-hour. 15-participant limit per mini-session. (no CEU offered)

3:00-4:05 pm Fenton Breakout Session 0.1 CEU Implementing Healthy Community Designs for the Park & Recreation Professional This will be a more detailed discussion of how to implement healthy design principles. It begins with making the case to “non-parks” stakeholders, such as elected, planning, transportation, and economic development officials and the private sector. We’ll explain concrete steps to such strategies as Complete Streets policy implementation; comprehensive planning, land use, and development requirements that integrate park and

recreation facilities; transportation planning and Safe Routes to School to optimize facility access; and trail development for transportation as well as recreation. We’ll explore typical challenges, and include time to address your implementation questions.

4:20-5:25 pm Fenton Breakout Session 0.1 CEU Building Community Engagement with a Walk Audit A walk audit is a facilitated group walk of an area to observe both challenges to and opportunities for healthy behaviors, such as routine walking, cycling, and recreation. This session will demonstrate how walk audits can serve to inspire community leaders and stakeholders, educate participants on healthy design principles and best practices, and provide practical planning for specific interventions, policy, and environmental improvements. It’s an ideal way to gather constructive public input, for example, during program or facility planning. Wear your walking shoes—unless the conditions are actually dangerous (lightning, sub-zero wind chill, flaming meteorites) as we’ll be walking as well as talking about how to lead such an audit.


Wednesday At A Glance 7:00 am - 6:00 pm Registration Desk Open 8:30 am - 10:45 am General Session, Region/Section Awards, and Keynote Presentation 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Exhibit Hall Open (11:30 Lunch, ticket required) 11:00 am - Noon Section Meetings 3:00 pm - 5:25 pm Education Sessions 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm Off-Site Tours (see page 9) 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm Alumni Socials 6:30 pm - 11:00 pm Dinner, Silent Auction & Social (ticket required) - Old Glass Place *featured presenters are noted in green

3:00 – 4:05 pm Open Minds to Open Water (PRO) Expo A/B, 0.1 CEU A public park system, a membership organization, and a private service provider collaborated to serve a growing recreation interest and community. Hear how each organization benefitted and learn new ways to team up with “unlike” groups to challenge the status quo and generate new programs, events, attendance and revenue. Maggie Martin, Sally Drake, Stephe McCormick

The Strongest Trend in Fitness: Group Fitness (FIT) Expo C, 0.1 CEU Many facilities seem to have come full circle with their emphasis on programming. From the beginning, the area with the highest retention and profit has been group exercise programming. We will look back on the history of group exercise, what happened to it and where it is today. Tom Johnston

Managing the Aging Process of Your Aquatic Center (AQS) Expo D, 0.1 CEU Aquatic centers represent a huge investment for a community, and the expectations continue even after years of hard use. This presents a challenge - you can’t just build a new one when the wear and tear begins to show. If attendance decreases, so to revenues, so pool managers must plan the best course of action to maximize the aquatics experience and keep them coming through the gates. What steps are you taking? Scott Hester, Nick Balsman

How to Win: Partnering with Students (SPO) Expo E, 0.1 CEU Partnering is crucial for the future of the recreation industry. As a profession we are faced with the task of

providing more with less. At the same time, university faculty are looking for engaging ways for students to learn. When professionals from the field and university faculty are able to effectively collaborate we can create win-win partnerships benefiting all parties invloved: students, faculty, and professionals. Jennifer Upah, Elizabeth Hickox

Managing the Field for the Springfield Cardinals (PNR) Expo F/G, 0.1 CEU Every sports field is under pressure throughout the playing season due to expanding use and changing conditions. Our user groups expect professional conditions on a daily basis and this session will give an overview of what it takes to manage a sports field for a professional organization from turf management to managing the grounds crew. Brock Phipps

Implementing Healthy Community Designs for the Park and Recreation Professional (KEY) Expo South, 0.1 CEU This will be a more detailed discussion of how to implement healthy design principles. It begins with making the case to “non-parks” stakeholders, such as elected, planning, transportation, and economic development officials and the private sector. We’ll explain concrete steps to such strategies as “Complete Streets” policy implementation; comprehensive planning, land use, and development requirements that integrate park and recreation facilities; transportation planning and Safe Routes to School to optimize facility access; and trail development for transportation as well as recreation. We’ll explore typical challenges, and include time to address your implementation questions. Mark Fenton

Basic Initiatives: Team Building and Low Ropes (M&L) Expo North, 0.1 CEU Participants will experience and participate in team building and initiative activities. These are designed


Alumni SocialsWednesday 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm

University of Missouri – Columbia: Colorado B

Southeast Missouri State University: Kansas B

Missouri State University: Kansas C

All You Others: Kansas A



to challenge groups to work together as a team to accomplish a common mission. Be prepared to participate and a portion of the session may be outside, so please dress for the weather. Kara Warren, Jana Dickens

4:20 – 5:25 pm Healthy Greenways = Happy Communities (DSG) Expo A/B, 0.1 CEU Exploration of the positive impact greenways can have on the health and well being of a community. This session will focus on the role of the Great Rivers Greenway District in trail development throughout the metropolitan St. Louis area, ridership, health benefits, and design issues. Scott Emmelkamp, Elizabeth Simons

Producing Road Runs and Triathlons in Your Community (FIT) Expo C, 0.1 CEU Discover the ins and outs of producing Road Running, Trail or Triathlon events. The tips and techniques shared in this session will dramatically improve both beginning and advanced event productions. Mark Livesay

The Recreational Aquatic Ecosystem and Sphagnum Moss (AQS) Expo D, 0.1 CEU This presentation will describe how Sphagnum moss is being used to condition the water in commercial swimming pools, which are essentially aquatic ecosystems. The natural properties of Sphagnum moss stabilize water chemistry, improve water quality, and reduce chemical, water, and energy usage, resulting in considerable cost savings and simplified pool operations. Vance Fiegel

Utilizing Propane Fuel In Your Park System (PNR) Expo F/G, 0.1 CEU In 2014 the St. Charles Parks and Recreation Department began the transition to propane for their mowers and other maintenance equipment. This session will walk you through the decision making process, including the capital costs and operational savings seen in the 2014 mowing season. Chris Atkinson, Nick Donze, Tom Procter

What You Need To Know About Synthetic Turf (SPO) Expo E, 0.1 CEU Why do some synthetic fields last longer than others? Is there a safety difference between natural grass vs. synthetic? What about synthetic vs. synthetic? Does the fiber type impact play and/or safety? Is an all-rubber field the safest type of infill? What does it cost to construct and replace a typical synthetic field? If you want answers to these questions and more, plan on attending this informative, interactive discussion. Brett Gaither, Jameson Sheley

Building Community Engagement with a Walk Audit (KEY) Expo South, 0.1 CEU A walk audit is a facilitated group walk of an area to observe both challenges to and opportunities for healthy behaviors, such as routine walking, cycling, and recreation. This session will demonstrate how walk audits can serve to inspire community leaders and stakeholders, educate participants on healthy design principles and best practices, and provide practical planning for specific interventions, policy, and environmental improvements. It’s an ideal way to gather constructive public input, for example, during program or facility planning. Wear your walking shoes—unless the conditions are actually dangerous (lightning, sub-zero wind chill, flaming meteorites) as we’ll be walking as well as talking about how to lead such an audit. Mark Fenton

Sports Tourism: Benefits to Communities and Parks and Rec Departments (M&L) Expo North, 0.1 CEU Learn the benefits of Sports Tourism to both parks and recreation departments and to the local community. Identify the markets for sports tourism, and how your community can be successful in this method. Discuss the planning process for facilities, amenities, and marketing. Eric McCune, Kristi Beattie, Cindy Shook


Hula to Health - A Luau PartyWednesday, February 25th 6:00 - 11:00 pmOld Glass Place - 521 E St. Louis Street

Spend the evening on a tropical beach in the middle of downtown Springfield! The Beach Bash will be a must do while at Conference and attendees are encouraged to dress accordingly. Dinner will be provided and there will be tons of awesome items to bid on at the Silent Auction. Live entertainment will begin after the auction with The DUkes opening up for M Dock! Slap on the SPF and slip on your flippy floppies for this don’t-miss event! (ticketed event)

This is off-site from the hotel but within a very short walking distance. Transportation will be provided to and from the site in the event of inclement weather.

Sponsored by:

727 North First Street Suite 360Saint Louis, Missouri 63102

P 314.241.3600 F 314.241.3601www.planningdesignstudio.com

American Society of Landscape Architects Honor Award - Forest Park Dual Path

Amenities Plan

American Society of Landscape Architects Honor Award - O’Fallon Family Sports Park

Spray Ground

American Society of Landscape Architects Merit Award - Kirkwood Parks Planning

and Implementation

American Society of Landscape Architects Honor Award - River Des Peres Greenway

Recreation Planning

Programming & Budgets

Feasibility Studies

Park Master Plans

Construction Documents

Construction Period Services

PDSPlanning Design Studio


Thursday At A Glance 8:00 am - 5:30 pm Registration Desk Open 8:00 am - 9:00 am Region Directors Meeting - Colorado A 9:00 am - 11:25 am Education Sessions 9:00 am - 12:15 pm Off-Site Tours (see page 9-10) 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Past Presidents Lunch - Illinois 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Take a Student to Lunch 1:00 pm - 4:45 pm Education Sessions 1:00 pm - 3:25 pm Leisure Educators Section Meeting - Colorado A 1:00 pm - 3:45 pm Off-Site Tours (see page 9-10) 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Awards Banquet 8:00 pm - 11:30 pm Post Banquet Social with Live Entertainment

*featured presenters are noted in green

Thursday, February 26th 7:00 - 8:00 amMediacom Ice Park - 635 E Trafficway (just one block north of hotel)

Start your day with two-person physical challenges including broom ball, water balloons and the parks!

Frosty-Fun-A-Thon!

9:00 – 10:05 am NRPA CPRP (DEV) Oklahoma, 0.1 CEU Attaining the CPRP designation shows that you have met education and experience qualifications, and illustrates your commitment to the profession as well as your knowledge and understanding of key concepts within parks and recreation. Come and learn how to obtain the CPRP and CPRE Certifications and what is required to maintain them. Julie Boland, Shay Terrell

Parks and Clean Water Really Can Go Hand in Hand (PNR) John Q, 0.1 CEU In March 2007, a presentation was made to MPRA entitled “Parks and Clean Water Go Hand in Hand,” summarizing the proposed collaboration between Springfield Public Works and its Park Board to complete projects aimed at improving water quality and enhancing parks. This presentation will follow up with a summary of the completed projects and lessons learned over the last seven years. Todd Wagner, Miles Park

Outdoor Fitness Parks: A Community Wellness Solution (PRO) Colorado A, 0.1 CEU When it comes to healthy kids and healthy communities, it’s not a question of wanting to do the right thing. Recreation and parks departments have always contributed to the health and wellness of their communities. In this session, you will learn from one community’s experience in developing over 30 outdoor exercise parks. John McConkey

Tai Chi - An Opportunity to Improve Your Health! (FIT) Colorado B, 0.1 CEU Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial art practiced for its health benefits. Learn how research supports this gentle movement exercise for managing chronic conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes. Join us as we demonstrate how Tai Chi incorporates mind and body integration into a slow, continuous movement that improves balance, prevents falls, and reduces stress. Tally Morris

Share your photos and comments throughout the week by using

#MPRA2015 on your social media.


Prevention Techniques for Crime and Workplace Violence (M&L) Texas A/B, 0.1 CEU You will leave this session with tips and tricks that could save your life and the lives of fellow staff and customers. Discussion topics will include staff/patron safety precautions, dealing with robberies, burglaries, assaults and workplace violence. Matt Coats, Jeff Cumley

Recreational Archery (SPO) Kansas A, 0.1 CEU Archery is a growing sport - there’s no doubt! Are you ready? Learn how to begin a recreational archery program in your system. Material covered will include USA Archery instructor certification, range safety, and set-up. Amy Francka

Did You Know - We’ve Come (and Gone) a Long Way, Baby! (M&L) Kansas C, 0.1 CEU If you attended the training for Did You Know/Friends of the Park at the beginning, you’d hardly recognize it today! It’s better, more adaptable, quickly deployable and it’s for YOU. If you’ve been putting it off for a better time, that time has come. Over 100 agencies in 8 different states whole-heartedly agree - this continues to be a terrific way to re-position yourself in the eyes of citizens and elected officials. Jan Neitzert

Are You Getting a Screening or Scamming? (PRO) Kansas B, 0.1 CEU There is no “perfect” background check system, although in 2006 the field of parks and recreation established the industry standard. This session will outline how to ensure that your agency is not being misled when it comes to background checks. Chris Goodman

Design for All Ages and Abilities - Beyond ADA (PNR) Arkansas A/B, 0.1 CEU This session will build awareness of major disabilities and the inclusive design concepts involved in facility design. We can improve our playground designs through better understanding of a wider variety of users. Move beyond ADA as a design guide for playgrounds and use more inclusive principles. Dan Perreault

10:20 – 11:25 am All Ages, All Abilities, All the Time: How Socially Sustainable are your Parks? (DSG) Colorado A, 0.1 CEU Parks today face the challenge of providing environments where all visitors can feel safe, secure and fully engaged in play. Universal design increases usability, safety, health and social participation. In this presentation, participants will discover how applying the principles of universal design can benefit your parks. Bryan Sykora, John McConkey

Build It and They Will Come (DSG) John Q, 0.1 CEU This session will present the funding, planning, design, and construction of the new Foster Student Recreation Center and Betty and Bobby Allison Sports Facilities on the Missouri State University campus. We will also discuss the $50 million improvement projects for football, soccer, track, field hockey, and sand volleyball facilities on campus. Brian Hauff, Terry Rowland, Randall Blackwood

Thursday, February 26th 11:30 am – 1:00 pmMeet at MPRA Registration Desk

Students: Professionals from all sectors of the field will sign-up to take a student or two to lunch. This is your chance to network with a professional who may have a job that you want when you enter the professional workforce and you can enjoy a free lunch too!

Professionals: The students are excited about this great opportunity to have lunch with a professional. Please catch Susan McLeod, if you have not already signed up, and let her know that she can count on you to “Take a Student to Lunch.”

Take a Student To Lunch




Plant Pollinators, Identification, Establishment and Management (PNR) Oklahoma, 0.1 CEU Native wildflowers play an important role beyond habitat management. Learn to identify and manage plant pollinators and why they should be a part of your ecosystem and community. Jeff Powelson

Radical Wellness (FIT) Colorado B, 0.1 CEU Wellness typically includes, first and foremost, diet and exercise. But what about the other dimensions of wellness that impact our health? This presentation will look at some collateral issues that influence health as well as a look at some novel approaches to wellness. Bill Ingemi

The Importance of Play Value - Evaluating Play Equipment (PNR) Arkansas A/B, 0.1 CEU This session will help you understand the terms “play” and “play value.” Understand the diverse benefits of play: biological, social, emotional, and cognitive. We will discuss the challenges to creating playgrounds that truly meet the needs of today’s children. Dan Perreault

Increasing Profits with Healthy Concessions: Independence’s Success Story (M&C) Texas A/B, 0.1 CEU In 2012, Independence Parks and Recreation partnered with their contractor Midwest Pool Management to overhaul their Adventure Oasis Water Park concessions. Learn how they successfully switched to a heathier menu and promoted healthy choices to park visitors. Find out how selling healthy items helped drive sales and how you can do it too! Jeremy Rogers, Eden Dowler

Thinking Inside, Outside and All Around the Box - Generating Programs (PRO) Kansas B, 0.1 CEU Stuck in a programming funk? Come learn how to assess your current programs, learn about some new programming trends, and have fun creating awesome programs to take back with you! Susan McLeod, Ashleigh Lewellen

If You Can’t Measure It - You Can’t Manage It (M&L) Kansas C, 0.1 CEU Measurement of parks and recreation is critical, especially as our boards, commissions, and community members demand outcomes. Decisions cannot be made in a vacuum and need data to be valid and rational through the use of data. The great aspect is most of this data you are already collecting! Come learn how to make a decision and present your data to gain the resources you need. Chris Nunes

Risk and Liability for Sport and Recreational Personnel (SPO) Kansas A, 0.1 CEU This session will highlight facility and event management, waivers and releases, emergency action planning, assumption of risk and products liability. Charles Brunette, Keith Starr

1:00 – 2:05 pm Communicating Essential Messages in Times of Crisis (DEV) Oklahoma, 0.1 CEU Crises take many forms, many of which can be anticipated. Effectively communicating to internal and external audiences is central to crisis management. This session will provide a fundamental understanding of what constitutes a crisis and provide attendees with best practices for incorporating crisis communication planning into current response protocols. Melinda Arnold

Park Planning and Design - Dan Kinney Park (DSG) John Q, 0.1 CEU From concept to reality, join us as we discuss the relationship between communities and their public parks. We’ll discuss the principles and design strategies utilized when master planning the Dan Kinney Park in Springfield, MO. Jim Lohmeyer, Billy Kimmons, Larry Parke

The Proper Feeding and Hydration of Your Sports Program Athletes (FIT) Colorado B, 0.1 CEU What do your sports program athletes need to eat and drink to maximize their performance? MU Athletic Department’s Sports Nutrition Staff will share their recommendations for youth athletes and what you could be doing to help your athletes meet their unique needs. Susan Mills-Gray

Visual Tree Assessment (PNR) Arkansas A/B, 0.1 CEU Visual tree assessment is a vital tool for evaluating risk associated with the condition of trees in a park system. This session will focus on how to conduct an assessment, key risk factors, and methods to present the information to the public. Kevin Harrel




Making a Splash with Your Aquatic Programs (AQS) Texas A/B, 0.1 CEU Some of the biggest challenges in aquatics are maximizing revenue, minimizing operational expenses, maintaining a safe environment for patrons and a general misunderstanding of aquatics. In session we will explore all of these areas and offer recommendations to review. Darin Barr

Adapting Sport and Recreation for Individuals with Disabilities (SPO) Kansas A, 0.1 CEU Learn how to include a variety of individuals with disabilities into your fitness, recreation, and sports programs! Presentation will provide hands-on application examples of modifications you can use immediately, as well as introduce the audience to a variety of available resources in the community and through technology. Heather Pennington

Learn About Preparing for Retirement from Retirees (DEV) Kansas B, 0.1 CEU Learn how to prepare for retirement, and we’re not just talking about financial planning, but much more. Hear from retirees about what has worked and what has not. Learn how to prepare for retirement while you are still working. Discover how to leave your career and shift into retirement. Roscoe Righter, David Curtis, Allan Cooksey

Building Consensus - Getting People On the Same Page (M&L) Kansas C, 0.1 CEU Reaching out to the public, especially on a controversial topic, may be the scariest thing you ever do. By its nature, it invites confrontation, scrutiny, and the unknown. Working to bring together the interests of the public with those of staff and policy makers serves to overcome those fears. Learn how to set appropriate parameters, who to include, and techniques for gathering input. Chris Nunes

2:20 – 3:25 pm Personalities and Parks: Understanding How to Work with Those Around You (DEV) Oklahoma, 0.1 CEU We will cover four main types of personalities using the DISC system, a personal assessment tool used to improve work productivity, teamwork and communication. DISC is non-judgmental and helps people discuss their behavioral differences. Diana Tyndall

Partnerships - How to Get to WE! (PRO) Kansas B, 0.1 CEU Never has there been a greater need for creating and sustaining the financial health of organizations. Although financial stability is a scarce commodity across our nation, partnerships between parks, recreation, schools and businesses can strengthen opportunities for shared resources and facility usage. Jodie Adams, Peggy Riggs

URWU8 (FIT) Colorado B, 0.1 CEU What are you eating? Is it junk or food? Learn the importance of nutrients and how they affect our bodies. Also, learn about reading the nutritional facts on food labels. This session will involve several hands-on activities that will make choosing healthier options easier. Julie Schnurbusch

Water Quality Facilities and Outdoor Education in Parks (PNR) Arkansas A/B, 0.1 CEU The Watershed Center at Valley Water Mill Park demonstrates a unique partnership between several agencies. This session will highlight the low-impact design of the park and facilities, the unique natural features, the innovative programs that take place, and how it is all made possible. Mike Kromrey

Lifeguard Bootcamp (AQS) Texas A/B, 0.1 CEU How about a 24-hour intensive, comprehensive pre-season lifeguard training? Consolidate recertification, orientation, and team building at one time in one place. Get everyone on the same page and sleep easy knowing that YOU have seen all of your lifeguards perform their skills before they’re getting up on the stand to start the season. Marc Baker

Living Architecture: How Green Infrastructure Positively Impacts Water Quality (DSG) John Q, 0.1 CEU Springs, streams, rivers, and lakes are unique aspects of Southwest Missouri’s tourism and economy. Identify how “Living Architecture” and parks and recreation departments can promote water quality through sustainable building design, park design, operations, regional planning and development. Eric McCune, Kristi Beattie


Getting the Mental E.D.G.E on Concussions (SPO) Kansas A, 0.1 CEU No one can prevent every concussion, but having the tools to help once there is one can be crucial. Hear how to educate individuals, create guidelines to put into effect, and help the medical staff with the diagnosis of a concussion. Delaine Young

The Future of Your Department: Planning for Tomorrow (M&L) Kansas C, 0.1 CEU Succession planning in the parks and recreation field has been a neglected management tool. However, the profession is facing a large number of impending retirements. These will require departments and commissions to review their internal human capital so that they can be fully prepared. This session will focus on succession planning at all levels of an organization and how to implement planning through developing an understanding of your current and future tasks, competencies at all levels of an organization and ways to develop staff that are economically feasible in an agency. Chris Nunes

3:40 – 4:45 pm Help! There Is An Alien In My Park! Understanding Trees and Their Needs (PNR) Arkansas A/B, 0.1 CEU This session will provide a “layman’s” explanation of trees and plants. The complex systems allowing these living things to survive and thrive will be broken down into simple concepts like looking at roots as a spoon or fork. Learn rules of thumb allowing you to make better decisions about managing trees, relating tree needs to the public, and spending money more effectively. Chad Shoemaker

Our Mission: National Parks (DSG) John Q, 0.1 CEU People love our National Parks, and Missouri is fortunate to have six National Park units located in our state. This session will cover a general understanding of the sites, current operational considerations, and future planning and development. Ron Coleman, Tom Bradley, Russell Runge

E-payments (Electronic Payment Collection) (M&L) Colorado A, 0.1 CEU Organizations of all types and sizes are shifting from paper to electronic payment collection to reduce costs, processing time and risks. During the last decade, electronic payments increased more than 100% while paper check payments declined 60%. Our discussion will include methods of customer access, payment processing, security and administration. Laurie Adams

No Smoking (or tobacco) - Is It Time for Your Parks? (FIT) Colorado B, 0.1 CEU Parks and recreation agencies across the country are addressing the issue of smoking and tobacco in their parks and at their activities. Who is doing what? Should your agency consider a smoking or tobacco ban? What about e-cigarettes? Participants will discuss this important issue and review options for their agency. Joe Snook

The Creative Park: Integrating the “Arts into Parks” Program (PRO) Oklahoma, 0.1 CEU What does it take to offer quality arts programming in a parks setting? Gather ideas about engaging the community through solid connections between a parks department and local artists and organizations. This session will also offer information about available arts grants. Leslie Forrester

Mentos…Freshen Up Your Young Leaders (AQS) Texas A/B, 0.1 CEU Young leaders: How do you create work ethic, get them to take responsibility for their actions, instill in them a sense of pride in what they are doing, and teach them how to mentor others on your team? We want to share with you some successes that could help develop young leaders in your department. Ashley Creller

Coaching Your Coaches (SPO) Kansas A, 0.1 CEU Do you currently run your own league and hire your own coaches? Do you provide those coaches with training? Learn some creative ways to convey to your volunteers reasons they should coach, the benefits of coaching, their roles in your programs, how to properly prepare for the season and developing a season plan. Angie Toebben, Elizabeth Hickox

Technology in Outdoor Recreation: A Must or a Must Not? (PRO) Kansas B, 0.1 CEU Many outdoor enthusiasts are trying to get away from the modern world and technology. MSU’s Parks and Outdoor Recreation folks incorporate technology into all outdoor activities. We will share our successes and failures, in addition to giving hands-on access to the technology we have used. Hugh Gibson

Illegal Drug Awareness in Park Settings (M&L) Kansas C, 0.1 CEU We will look at the recent trends of various types of substance use, from the new face of marijuana, to inhalants, and new designer drugs like synthetics. We will also explore the danger of methamphetamine and its precursors, which pose hazardous waste concerns to people and the environment. Steve Miller


8:30 am – 10:00 am Region Meetings Northwest (1) Region will meet in Colorado B Northeast (2) Region will meet in Kansas A Southwest (3) Region will meet in Kansas B Southeast (4) Region will meet in Kansas C

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE | PLANNING | URBAN DESIGNwww.thinkconfluence.com417 Delaware, Kansas City, Missouri 64105 | 816.531.7227 | [email protected]

Thursday, February 26th 6:00 pm – 11:30 pm (Doors Open at 5:45 pm)University Plaza Convention Center

Help us celebrate as we pay tribute to the newest members of the Missouri Recreation and Parks Hall of Fame and all the other MPRA Citation and Award winners on Thursday evening. Stick around afterwards for the closing social with the musical talent Members Only, an 80’s tribute band, as they bring you back to the days of AquaNET, Swatch Watches and Bugle Boy Jeans! (ticketed event)

Awards Banquet

10:00 am – 12:00 pm Board Member Orientation in Colorado A 0.2 CEU

This session will outline expectations and responsibilities of board members, committee chairs, and region leadership. Have you thought about being more involved with MPRA but don’t know where to start? You can learn about all the different opportunities at this meeting. Those encouraged to attend are: President & President Elect Secretary/Treasurer Board Members at Large Region Directors & Director Elects Regional Committee Chairs (Annual Fund, Education, Legislation, Membership)

February 23-26, 2016

Holiday Inn Expo CenterCOLUMBIA, MO

Save the Date

MPRA Conference2016


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800-203-3613www.bagspot.com • [email protected]

The #1 Choice of Park & Recreation Professionals

Better Bags

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✔ COMPETITIVE PRICING

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✔ HEAVY-DUTY COMMERCIAL GRADE


2nd Wind Exercise EquipmentBooth # 82Elyse Lundberg17409 D Chesterfield Airport Rd.Chesterfield, MO 63005(952)[email protected] equipment, new, used and remanufactured.

ABCreativeBooth # 40Tim McNamara32225 W 88th St.De Soto, KS 66018(913)[email protected] is your source for customized, full install solutions including site work using quality product lines from Burke, Berliner, Icon and ForeverLawn Playground Grass. Whether you need adventurous and inclusive play, made-to-order shelters or safety surfacing, ABCreative can make your vision a reality.

Advance Exercise EquipmentBooth # 41 & 42Bruce Schlagel861 South Park Dr., Ste 100Middleton, CO 80120(303)[email protected] is a leading commercial fitness equipment organization with over 25 years experience, and your exclusive source for Life Fitness and Hammer Strength. AEE provides consultant services like design and layout, equipment selection, delivery/installation, preventive maintenance, and financing solutions.

Agro-LogicsBooth # 109Denis Barron2330 Weldon Pkwy.St. Louis, MO 63146(314)[email protected] infield conditioners, Turface, Diamond Pro, windscreens, netting, grass seed, fertilizers, chemicals.

All Inclusive RecBooth # 69 & 70Stewart MackayPO Box 72Farmington, MO 63640(573)[email protected] provider of commercial park, playground, and splash pad equipment. Other

products include playground safety surfacing, site furnishings, sports equipment, architectural shelters, and fabric shade.

American Ramp Co.Booth # Center CourtTim Babcock601 McKinley Ave.Joplin, MO 64801(417)[email protected]’s premier skatepark provider with over 2000 skateparks in over 37 countries.

American Red CrossBooth # 53Theresa Rees1293 Windham Pkwy.Romeoville, IL 60446(312)[email protected] profit organization helping those in health and safety training, disaster, and armed services.

Arlan CompanyBooth # 31Larry Arlan11835 Roe Ave.Leawood, KS 66211(913)[email protected] parks and recreation and school system chemicals and supplies and athletic field supplies

Athco, LLCBooth # 35Jason Cates13500 West 108th St.Lenexa, KS 66215(913)[email protected], scoreboards, shelters, surfacing, water play products and installation.

BagSpot Pet Waste SolutionsBooth # 86Jeffrey Springer9648 Olive Blvd. Box #313Olivette, MO 63132(800)[email protected] is a provider of environmentally friendly pet waste management products. From our bio-based and biodegradable pet waste bags to the patented BagSpot 2-n-1 Dispenser, we have what you need to keep your parks and recreation areas clean.

BBN Architects, Inc.Booth # 47Scott Bingham411 Nichols Rd., Ste. 246Kansas City, MO 64112(816)[email protected] multi-disciplinary design firm providing landscape architecture, architecture and park planning to the MPRA community since 1994.

Blue Water PoolsBooth # 73Phil Helms1309 N Hills, Ste. 201North Little Rock, AR 72114(501)[email protected] Chlorination Systems provide consistent chlorine delivery with greater operational ease.

BSN SportsBooth # 57Sara Varn1901 Diplomat Dr.Farmers Branch, TX 75234(800)[email protected] Sports has everything you need to support your sports and recreation programs. We are a team committed to game changing solutions by offering more brands and products than any other company in the industry. Our personalized service is tailored to you and our “One Stop Shop” will stretch your dollar further.

BuyBoardBooth # 27Tamara Sites2103 Berrywood Ct.Arnold, MO 63010(573)[email protected] BuyBoard purchasing cooperative meets all of the Missouri purchasing statutes. BuyBoard is free to use, supports Missouri education programs and promotes local purchasing.

Byrne & Jones Sports ConstructionBooth # 77Brett Gaither11745 Lackland Rd.St. Louis, MO 63146(314)567-7997 Ext. [email protected] turf, tennis court, asphalt and concrete path construction.



Conference sponsors are noted in blue. Thank you, Sponsors!Carrothers ConstructionBooth # 80Cherie Worden401 W. Wea St.Paola, KS 66071(913)[email protected] provides construction management and design build services for municipal aquatic centers and swimming pools. Services include planning, design, budgeting and construction.

Challenger SportsBooth # 112Mike Parry8263 Flint St.Lenexa, KS 66214(913)599-4884 Ext. [email protected] Sports is your total soccer solution, offering British & Brazilian soccer camps, advanced residential camps through SoccerPlus, player development programs, world tours, tournament management, coach education, soccer uniforms and equipment and our new Minikickers programs focusing on key child development through the medium of soccer for ages 2-5.

Champlin Tire Recycling, Inc.Booth # 101 & 102Mark Haist402 HightowerNixa, MO 65714(785)[email protected] benches, picnic tables, and rubber playground mulch.

Commercial AquaticsBooth # 99 & 100Andrew BohlPO Box 113Olathe, KS 66061(913)[email protected] pool supplies and services.

ConfluenceBooth # 75PJ Novick417 Delaware St.Kansas City, MO 64105(816)[email protected] brings landscape architecture, planning and urban design together as a creative but practical means of merging our clients’ needs with the environment. A philosophy characterizing our body of work is to make every project unique through the art of “place-making.”

Continental PoolsBooth # 60Mary Herbert805 E Warren St.Gardner, KS [email protected] pool construction and rehabilitation.

Counsilman Hunsaker & AssociatesBooth # 51Linda Duerst10733 Sunset Office Dr., Ste 400St. Louis, MO 63127(314)[email protected] is a full-service planning, design, engineering and aquatic facility operations firm providing professional services for a broad range of clients, including waterpark resorts, community aquatic facilities, wellness, K-12, hospitality, and collegiate-level facilities, as well as privately-owned facilities.

CTS GroupBooth # 59Gina Bicknese15933 Clayton Rd., Ste. 110St. Louis, MO 63011(636)230-0843 Ext. [email protected] Group is dedicated to assisting municipalities in providing healthy, safe and energy-efficient recreational centers, natatoriums and other facilities. Our turnkey project implementation process includes guaranteed savings in costs for change orders. Through our process, aging and inefficient facilities are transformed into viable state-of-the-art buildings that operate more efficiently.

Cunningham RecreationBooth # 43 & 44Michele ZiegelmeyerPO Box 240981Charlotte, NC 28224(816)[email protected] Recreation can provide customers with safe affordable playground equipment, a variety of safety surfacing materials, sports/fitness equipment, bleachers, press boxes, scoreboards, shade and shelter options, site furnishings, water play, custom design and theme, skate parks, dog parks and installation. We also offer a comprehensive playground management and maintenance program.

DG2 DesignBooth # 3Kristy DeGuire125 S CentralEureka, MO 63025(314)[email protected] Architecture: site planning, parks, playgrounds, trails, streetscapes, native landscaping, stormwater design, natural playgrounds, ADA design, WBE/DBE.

DNR - Missouri State ParksBooth # 97Tyler SchwartzPO Box 176Jefferson City, MO 65102(573)[email protected] on Missouri State Parks. Staff will also be on hand to discuss information on Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and Recreational Trails Program (RTP) grant opportunities.

Electro-Mech Scoreboard Co.Booth # 4Jonathan Harnetiaux655 HurstgreenSt. Louis, MO 63119(314)[email protected] Scoreboard Company has been manufacturing quality scoreboards since 1963 in Wrightsville, GA. We have established ourselves as one of the top manufacturers in our industry by building products with exceptional quality, one scoreboard at a time.

FGM Architects, Inc.Booth # 66Brian Wright10 S Broadway, Ste. 1150St. Louis, MO [email protected] in 1945, FGM established itself as a community-based architectural firm serving clients in the recreation, municipal, education, state and federal government and corporate markets.

Fields To GoBooth # 84Alan Cupp6554 Oleatha AvenueSt. Louis, MO 63139(314)[email protected] To Go designs, manufactures and installs cost effective multi-activity and sports enclosures to fit your specific space and sports needs.



Fitness ShowcaseBooth # 25 & 26Rick Vemmer7517 W 119th St.Overland Park, KS 66213(913)[email protected] fitness equipment sales and service since 1985! Serving Missouri, Kansas and Illinois. We represent Cybex, Vision, Stair-Master, Helix, Water Rower, USA Sports plus more! Let us “Equip You For Life.”

Foremost Fitness Group, LLCBooth # 52Brody Jackson704 Heatherstone Dr.High Ridge, MO 63049(314)[email protected] fitness equipment and sports flooring.

Forrest Keeling NurseryBooth # 37Mary GiblerP.O. Box 135Elsberry, MO 63343(800)[email protected] Native RPM (Root Production Method) plants for reforestation, liners for nursery growers and restoration projects.

Fry & Associate, Inc.Booth # 50John Fry101 E 15th Ave.North Kansas City, MO 64116(800)[email protected] are in the business of making your park and playground dreams become a reality.

GameTime AthleticsBooth # 24Chuck SilerPO Box 55Weston, MO 64098(877)[email protected] marking paint, sporting equipment, field maintenance and supplies.

Gerald Perry Tennis Company, Inc.Booth # 15Carla Magers3381 Sommerset Rd.Springfield, MO 65804(417)894-9024

[email protected] and surface tennis courts and other sport courts.

GHN Architects & Engineers/ETC Engineers & ArchitectsBooth # 36Brad Baker300 S Jefferson, Ste. 301Springfield, MO 65806(417)[email protected] Architects/Engineers specializes in municipal projects. In association with ETC, they provide full-service consulting to plan, design, and find funding for public aquatic and sports complexes.

GovDeals, Inc.Booth # 74Angela Jones100 Capitol Commerce Blvd., Ste 110Montgomery, AL 36117(334)[email protected], Inc. provides online auction services to government agencies to sell their surplus items online.

Hood-Rich ArchitectureBooth # 78Jim Lohmeyer400 South Ave., Ste. 300Springfield, MO 65806(417)[email protected] Architecture offers a wide range of design services including architecture, interior and graphic design. With over 50 years experience, our firm has a solid reputation in providing quality service, client satisfaction and design excellence. Hood-Rich Architecture has designed and completed hundreds of parks and recreation projects throughout Missouri.

Hydro DramaticsBooth # 95Paul Kaus1228 S 8th St.St. Louis, MO 63367(636)[email protected] feature design, supply and pond aeration systems.

International MulchBooth # 61Curt Kemper182 Northwest Industrial Ct.Bridgeton, MO 63044

(314)[email protected] provides a full suite of recycled rubber products for landscaping and playground applications. Our playground surfacing is the safest material available on the market.

JACOBSBooth # 23Michael Pratl501 N BroadwaySt. Louis, MO 63102(314)[email protected] provides planning, architectural & engineering design services for municipal recreation clients in Missouri and throughout the Midwest.

Jayhawk Plastic, Inc.Booth # 14Nick Paradise15285 S Keeler St.Olath, KS 66062(913)[email protected] Plastics manufactures commercial grade recycled plastic and steel site furnishings and has been in business over 41 years.

Kiefer USABooth # 63Ron DeMeyer2910 Falling Waters Blvd.Lindenhurst, IL 60046(847)245-8450 Ext. [email protected] in 1977 and based in Lindenhurst, IL, Kiefer is an award-winning, athletic surface design and installation company and an authorized dealer of Mondo sports surfaces and Conner Sports Flooring. Kiefer offers design and installation for track and field, artificial turf, multi-purpose facilities, gymnasiums, weight rooms, locker rooms and fitness facilities.

Larkin AquaticsBooth # 105Kyle McCawley9200 Ward Pkwy., Ste. 200Kansas City, MO 64114(816)[email protected] design consultants specializing in new aquatic facility design, conceptual planning, renovations and additions, life cycle cost analysis, fountain design, bidding services, facility evaluations and reports, construction management services, feasibility studies and design/build.



Lifeguards Unlimited, Inc.Booth # 54 & 55Renee Jeep4709 LaGuardia Dr., Ste 180St. Louis, MO 63134(314)[email protected] service swimming pool management.

Lincoln Aquatics, Inc.Booth # 17Dennis GergerPO Box 750Winfield, MO 67156(620)[email protected] Aquatics, Inc. is one of the largest swimming pool distributors in the country. For 60 years, their reputation has been established by providing customers with prompt personal service and by carrying the highest quality products available. Lincoln has over 6500 products available to provide clean, healthy water for the aquatics industry.

Loma Vista NurseryBooth # 19Chad Weinand12905 W 143rd St.Olathe, KS 66062(913)[email protected] grower and wholesale distributor of over 650 varieties of cold hardy trees, shrubs, ornamental grasses, perennials and groundcovers with distribution to Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Colorado and beyond.

Lose & AssociatesBooth # 92Marla Simmons1314 5th Ave. N, Ste. 200Nashville, TN 37208(615)[email protected] architecture, civil engineering, architecture and land planning.

McCann Concrete Products, Inc.Booth # 49Mark Melvin8709 Rt. 159Dorsey, IL 62021(618)[email protected] precast concrete easi-set restrooms, and storage buildings, baseball dugouts, pump houses, and precast structures for transportation.

McConnell & Associates Corp.Booth # 39Wendy Miller1225 Iron St.North Kansas City, MO 64116(816)[email protected] court and running track construction, repair and maintenance.

McCownGordon ConstructionBooth # 48Jennifer Sivwright422 Admiral Blvd.Kansas City, MO 64106(816)[email protected] construction.

Mid-America Sports ConstructionBooth # 110Chris Cox1621 SE Summit St.Lee’s Summit, MO 64081(816)[email protected] field contractor.

Midwest Advertising SpecialtiesBooth # 21Laura Payne1707 Southridge Dr.Jefferson City, MO 65109(573)[email protected] specialties and promotional products.

Midwest Pool Management/ Westport PoolsBooth # 93 & 94Crissy Withrow Dave White156 Weldon Pkwy.Maryland Heights, MO 63043(314)[email protected] service aquatic company featuring: management, equipment, service, renovations, design build projects, audits, and consulting.

Miracle RecreationBooth # 65Curt HutchinsonPO Box 194Troy, MO 63379(314)[email protected] made playground equipment, splash pads, site amenities, shelters, safety surfacing, fitness equipment, restroom buildings.

MPR Supply CompanyBooth # 5Jim Osborne2541 Link Rd.St. Louis, MO 63114(800)369-7257Turf and landscape supply.

Musco LightingBooth # 45Nick Mauer100 1st Ave. WOskaloosa, IA 52577(800)[email protected] nearly 40 years, Musco has specialized in the design and manufacture of athletic field lighting. Musco’s Light-Structure GreenTM, is a cost-effective sports lighting system offering significant advantages for your budget and the environment - operating costs and off site spill light are cut in half.

New Again, Inc. Outdoor FurnitureBooth # 79Kathy Gharst904 E Loula, Ste. BOlathe, KS 60661(913)[email protected] of outdoor furniture, powder coating (including diving board equipment), vinyl restrapping, and mesh sling replacement.

NPCG, LLCBooth # 71 & 72Ernest Knight205 S GarfieldCarlisle, IA 50047(314)[email protected] playground equipment and duromat rubber tiles.

Oates & Associates, Inc.Booth # 64Cheryl Vancil100 Lanter Ct., Ste. 1Collinsville, IL 62234(618)[email protected] Associates is a multi-disciplined planning and design firm. Services include civil engineering, structural engineering, architecture, survey services and construction phase service. Our staff has the expertise to develop and complete solutions for projects of any size, from large-scale athletic and open space developments to individual recreational experiences.

Conference sponsors are noted in blue. Thank you, Sponsors!



Ochsner, Hare & HareBooth # 18Cameron Smith550 St. Louis St.Springfield, MO 65806(417)[email protected] master planning, aquatics/splash pad design, sports field design, gathering/amphitheater design, landscape architecture/urban planning, land development, trails, water resources, water/wastewater structural, environmental resources & compliance, mechanical/electrical, field services-survey and geotechnical.

OrthotechBooth # 1 & 2Tom JohnstonPO Box 430Herrin, IL 62948(618)[email protected] for all your full commercial fitness needs.

Performance Fitness EquipmentBooth # 83Mike McGraw1202 Southwest Crystal Creek Pl.Blue Springs, MO 64015(816)[email protected] over 30 years of sales and service in the fitness equipment industry, representing some of the industry’s best manufacturers.

Planning Design StudioBooth # 56Andrew Franke727 N First Street, Suite 360St. Louis, MO 63102(314)[email protected] architecture services including park and recreation master planning and design.

PR FitnessBooth # 16Rob Goff10700 Regent St.Oklahoma City, OK 73162(405)[email protected] equipment, rubber flooring, dumbbells, olympic plates, benches, racks and fitness accessories.

Public Restroom CompanyBooth # 81Katie Sherin2587 Business Pkwy.Minden, NV 89423(888)[email protected] Restroom Company is a design/build specialist for odor-free park restroom buildings. Custom Property Solutions provides custom solutions to projects in Missouri and southern Illinois.

Rain Drop ProductsBooth # 29Greg Holt2121 Cottage St.Ashland, OH 44805(419)[email protected] recreation equipment and features for pools and spraygrounds.

RDG Design GroupBooth # 62Scott Crawford301 Grand Ave.Des Moines, IA 50309(515)[email protected] RDG Planning & Design, our role is to achieve our client’s parks and recreation goals without compromising future generations’ natural resources. Our responsibility is to consider cultural, environmental and economic impacts in our problem-solving approach. Our process strives to enhance human experiences through the health of people, places and economy.

REACHBooth # 87Kiersten Gibson6440 Flying Cloud Dr., Ste. 225Eden Prairie, MN 55344(952)[email protected] owns and operates a flexible, fast-growing digital media network, including digital signage, touchscreens, mobile apps, room schedulers, and menu boards.

Sapp Design Associates Architects, P.C.Booth # 89Michael Sapp3750 S Fremont Ave.Springfield, MO 65804(417)[email protected] firm providing architecture, sustainable design, feasibility studies, master planning, design-build, computer modeling and many more services when needed.

SCORE SportsBooth # 38Anne Hernandez726 E Anaheim St.Wilmington, CA 90744(310)830-6161 Ext. [email protected] sportswear, uniforms - soccer, basketball, baseball and sports equipment.

Sedalia CVBBooth # 68Carolyn Crooker600 E Third St.Sedalia, MO 65301(800)[email protected] information for things to do and places to see in the Sedalia area.

SFS ArchitectureBooth # 111Carol Tracy1150 Grand Blvd., Ste. 400Kansas City, MO 64106(816)[email protected], interior design, and planning.

Show Me WeightsBooth # 67Kyle Lang1697 Fenpark Dr.Fenton, MO 63026(314)[email protected], sell, and trade commercial fitness equipment.

SportsPlay Equipment, Inc.Booth # 104Scott Meyer5642 Natural BridgeSt. Louis, MO 63120(314)389-4040 Ext. [email protected] Equipment is known for fun equipment of exceptional safety and durability. Please visit us at www.sportsplayinc.com. We put the value in play!

SSCI - Operation TLC2Booth # 98Chris Goodman1853 Piedmont Rd., Ste. 100Marietta, GA 30066(866)[email protected]’s #1 choice in parks and recreation background screening. Helping over 35 agencies in Missouri.



SwimTime Commercial Aquatic EquipmentBooth # 6Jerry Peterson202 E ClevelandSterling, KS 67579(316)[email protected] of commercial aquatics equipment.

The Clark Enersen PartnersBooth # 7Bob Everitt1010 Lincoln Mall Lincoln, NE 68508(402)[email protected], landscape architecture, and engineering.

Tropical Palm Trees, Inc.Booth # 106 & 107Allen Scott3950 N 20th St.Ozark, MO 65721(417)[email protected] of full size outdoor artificial palm trees for water parks. Made in the USA.

TurfMark Services, LLCBooth # 108Mark MatthewsPO Box 939Osage Beach, MO 65065(573)[email protected] field contracting and renovations.

Tyler TechnologiesBooth # 22Heather Shuman1 Tyler DriveYarmouth, ME 04096(207)518-4111 Ext. [email protected] with an insider’s understanding of the public sector, Tyler Technologies’ ERP Solutions offer governments/schools fully-integrated applications for financials, revenues and human capital management.

University of Missouri ExtensionBooth # 96Cindy DeBlauw1205 University Ave., Ave 300Columbia, MO 65211(573)[email protected] of Missouri Extension provides education, training and technical assistance to parks seeking to offer healthier foods in their

food service operations. Extension sponsors the Eat Smart in Parks program that also provides assistance to parks in marketing healthy foods and beverages.

USTA Missouri ValleyBooth # 91John Terpkosh4305 E 307th St.Cleveland, MO 64734(913)[email protected] develop and promote the growth of tennis through programs, grants and resources.

Vaughan Pools & SpasBooth # 103Brent Brockmeyer1909 S Country Club Dr.Jefferson City, MO 65109(573)[email protected], commercial, custom-designed gunite pools, water features, above ground pools, spas, hot tubs, service and supplies. We have the experience and expertise to meet your every expectation. CPO training available.

Vermont Systems, Inc.Booth # 46Kathy Messier12 Market Pl.Essex Junction, VT 05452(802)[email protected] Systems provides premier recreation and parks management software solutions with unparalleled support. RecTrac is a fully integrated, browser-based, recreation management system, available by module allowing you to customize for your specific needs without having to purchase unnecessary features.

Vortex-MidwestBooth # 76Cory Anderson425 W Grand River Ave., Ave. BWilliamston, MI 48895(517)[email protected] Midwest is a U.S.-based company that services over 350 installed projects in the Midwest. Vortex Midwest is led by Cory Anderson, who has over 12 years experience in the business and has designed and installed over 110 splash pads.

VireoBooth # 88Daron Bennett929 Walnut, Ste. 700Kansas City, MO 64106(816)[email protected], trail and greenway planning and design.

Water’s Edge Aquatic DesignBooth # 90Nick Hamill11205 W 79th St.Lenexa, KS 66214(913)[email protected]’s Edge specializes in the engineering and design of aquatic centers, water parks, community pools, natatoriums, fountains, and spraygrounds. Water’s Edge provides comprehensive services during each phase of the project to ensure the successful completion of your aquatic facility.

WNB ArchitectsBooth # 20Jenna Guild517 DelawareKansas City, MO 64105(816)[email protected] in recreational design.

Worlds of FunBooth # 58Allison Prettyman4545 Worlds of Fun Ave.Kansas City, MO 64161(816)[email protected] of Fun and Oceans of Fun is a destination for family fun from April to October! From summer time with the combined parks including the waterpark, to fall during our Halloween Haunt! We offer group rates starting at 15 or more people.

Youth Volunteer CorpBooth # 85Taylor Neff1025 Jefferson St.Kansas City, MO 64105(816)472-9822 Ext. [email protected] is a network of programs hosted by nonprofit organizations and municipal departments offering youth ages 11-18 the opportunity to serve in their community.

Conference sponsors are noted in blue. Thank you, Sponsors!



Built on a strong foundation that has spanned three generations, Cunningham Recreation is dedicated to creating unique, fun playgrounds that provide meaningful

play experiences for children of all ages and abilities. From lightly themed play areas to complete themed designation parks, if you can imagine it, we can build it!

800.438.2780www.cunninghamrec.com

Founded by George Cunningham in 1966

THEN

NOW

The Cunningham Family

March 24-26 Certified Playground Safety Inspector Course St. Charles, MO

September, 2015 MPRA/KRPA Executive Forum Location TBD, MO

September 27-28 Student Retreat Lake Ozark, MO

September 15-17, 2015 NRPA Congress & Expo Las Vegas, NV

November 3-5 Certified Playground Safety Inspector Course Location TBD, MO

February 23-26, 2016 MPRA Annual Conference & Expo Holiday Inn Executive Center Columbia, MO

Upcoming MPRA Events & Future Conference Dates

Looking for unique project solutions? Contact All Inclusive Rec today @ www.allinclusiverec.com or call 1-866-701-9787

Commercial Playground Equipment

Safety Surfacing Fabricated Shade

Outdoor Fitness Equipment Site Furnishings

Sports Equipment Outdoor Musical Equipment

Shelters & Pavilions Water Play & Splash Pads

866-701-9787 [email protected] www.allinclusiverec.com

E X P L O R E

Thank you all for attending the 2015 MPRA Annual Conference & Expo! We hope you had a great time and are leaving energized and informed.

#MPRA2015 | 2015 MPRA Conference 35 35

Built on a strong foundation that has spanned three generations, Cunningham Recreation is dedicated to creating unique, fun playgrounds that provide meaningful

play experiences for children of all ages and abilities. From lightly themed play areas to complete themed designation parks, if you can imagine it, we can build it!

800.438.2780www.cunninghamrec.com

Founded by George Cunningham in 1966

THEN

NOW

The Cunningham Family

Upcoming MPRA Events & Future Conference Dates


ILLUMINATINGGENERATIONS

You’re not just buying lights. You’re buying an affordable system that reduces energy and maintenance costs year after year. That means while decreasing wasted energy, you’ll save money and help protect the environment for his future.

To learn more visit: www.musco.com/generations

For Your BudgetFor The Environment

©2015 Musco Sports Lighting,LLC · ADMO15-1

Local area representative:Todd Stych800/825-6030 (toll free)563/260-0994 (mobile)[email protected]

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