Register Now at www.prps.org 1

2018 PRPS Conference & Expo REgistraton Guide

MARCH 27-30KALAHARI RESORTSPOCONO MANOR, PA

Download the Conference App on your phone!

Tuesday, March 278:00 am - 5:00 pm Registration 10:30 am - 2:00 pm Expo Hall Set-Up 11:00 am - 1:00 pm Board Meeting 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm Educational Sessions 2:15 pm - 2:30 pm Refreshment Break 2:30 pm - 3:45pm Educational Sessions4:00 pm - 6:15 pm Expo Hall Grand Opening/Reception 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Dinner/Business Meeting 9:00 pm - 12:00 am Social

Wednesday, March 288:00 am - 5:00 pm Registration 8:30 am - 9:45 am Educational Sessions 9:45 am - 12:00 pm Expo Hall Open with Refreshment Break 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Luncheons - Exhibitor Appreciation, Past Presidents & Student1:15 pm - 2:30 pm Keynote Speaker - Marc Mero - Sponsored by Landscape Structures 2:30 pm - 2:45 pm Refreshment Break 2:45 pm - 4:00 pm Educational Sessions 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Expo Hall Farewell Reception 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Dinner 8:00 pm - 12:00 am Social

Thursday, March 298:00 am - 5:00 pm Registration 8:30 am - 9:45 am Educational Sessions 9:45 am - 10:00 am Refreshment Break 10:00 am - 11:15 am Keynote Speaker - Becky Johnen 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Society Luncheon 1:15 pm - 2:30 pm Educational Sessions 2:30 pm - 2:45 pm Refreshment Break 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm Pocono Raceway Tour 2:45 pm - 4:00 pm Educational Sessions 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Reception 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Awards Banquet 9:00 pm - 12:00 am Social

Friday, March 309:00 am - 10:30 am Networking Breakfast & Endnote

Schedule at a Glance

REGISTRATION HOURSTuesday, March 278:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday, March 288:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday, March 298:00 am - 5:00 pm

EXPO HALL HOURSTuesday, March 274:00 pm - 6:15 pmOpening & Reception

Wednesday, March 289:45 am - 12:00 pmExpo Hall Open

12:00 pm - 1:00 pmExhibitor Appreciation Lunch

4:00 pm - 6:00 pmExpo Hall Farewell Reception

Register Now at www.prps.org 3

Umealikwa! You’re invited to embark on a journey to discover the “Spir-it of Recreation” at the 71st Annual PRPS Conference & Expo!

“If you think adventure is dangerous, try routine, it is lethal.” – Paulo Coelho

Get ready to break out of your normal routine and brace yourself for an all new adventure! Join us Tuesday, March 27 - Friday, March 30, 2018 at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Pocono Manor, PA.

Recreation is a constantly evolving field. As the world and society around us change, we are faced with the challenge of evolving with those changes. The 2018 conference offers educational sessions that focus on classic recreation topics, as well as sessions that provide information on new and important topics, and exciting trends.

Former WWE Wrestling Champion, Marc Mero and author Becky Johnen join us as keynote speakers. Their presentations about managing stress, positive

thinking, taking things in stride, and making strong choices in your life and career will motivate you throughout this jour-ney!

Prepare yourself for a “hands on” experience in the Exhibit Hall! Be sure to pack your sneakers and a little competitive edge! Filled with returning and new vendors, the Exhibit Hall will provide you with information, services, and an interac-tive zone!

And, what’s any great adventure without fun memories and great friends? Take part each evening in a variety of interac-tive challenges, entertainment, music, dancing, and more at our exciting socials!

Of course, none of this would be possible without our fantastic conference committee, sponsors, exhibit hall vendors, speakers, and the PRPS staff. We can’t thank you enough for all of your hard work, dedication, and support! We could not do it without you! You have truly made this an adventure!

So get ready for an exciting expedition into the world of recreation! “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” – Ne-ale Donald WalschDan and Ashley

Welcome to the PRPS Conference & Expo

Thanks to our Conference CommitteeCo-Chairs - Dan Russell & Ashley O'Neill

Programs - Jason Lang & Nancy Opalka (Co-Chairs)Mary Beth BirksPaul KoperaPatty KlebanMark Palerino

Publicity - Harry Norton

App - Mike Erno

Registration - Katie Kollar (Chair)Karen SweeneySue BarkerKate JeffriesMegan Prusinski

Local Arrangements - Dan Sharapan (Chair)Joanna SharapanBeth Lee

Socials - Joe Seltzer (Chair)Teri Hettinger

Exhibit Hall - Mike Richino & Andy Oles (Co-Chairs)Brian BarrettDoug KnaussPaul GrimEmily Croke

Room Host - Alex Kaker

Banquets - Sudha Suryadevera (Chair)Cathy Wegener

4 Download the Conference App on your phone!

Continuing Education UnitsThe majority of program sessions have been approved for .1 CEUs.

To receive CEU credit for attending conference sessions, have your CEU form initialed by the room host at the end of each educational session you attend, then have your completed CEU form processed at the registration desk prior to leaving the conference. You will retain a copy of the form for your records and PRPS will keep a copy on file for seven years. Please sign the attendance sheet circulated at each session as well.

Continuing Education Units are awarded by PRPS in accordance with the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) guidelines.

TopicsaProfessional Development aUrban Recreation aPark Resources aTrails and Facilities aAquatics aProgramming aSocial Media & Marketing aInclusion and Accessibility

Let the Spirit of Recreation...• invite you to attend the largest statewide tradeshow exclusively for parks and

recreation!• instruct you in over 40 educational sessions to build your professional career!• induce productive networking among like-minded experts from around the state!• invest your development time and dollars where they make the most difference!• inform you on best practices, industry trends, and innovative products and

services!• increase your professional relevance, capacity and influence!• inspire an exciting new trajectory to your personal outlook and livelihood!

For over 70 years, the Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society has invited park and recreation professionals from across the state to attend over 40 education sessions and off-site tours, extensive exhibit hall, socials, and networking opportunities at its annual Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Conference and Expo. Developed by PRPS Staff and a Committee of your peers, this is the elite professional development event for park and recreation professional in PA!

STAY IN THE LOOPwith the PRPS 2018 Conference APP

Get the app1. Go to the right store. Access the App Store on iOS devices and the Play Store on Android.

2. Install the app. Search for CrowdCompass AttendeeHub. Once you’ve found the app, tap either Download or Install.

After installing, a new icon will appear on the homescreen.

Find the event1. Search the AttendeeHub. Once downloaded, open the AttendeeHub app and enter 2018 PRPS Annual Conference.

2. Open your event. Tap the name of your event to open it.

Register Now at www.prps.org 5

Top 5 Reasons to Attend Our Conference & Expo1. EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITES We offer over 40 educational sessions on a variety of topics to fit your professional career.

2. NETWORKINGWe provide many opportunities to network. This is the time to interact with others that you don't know. Around 400 park and recreation professionals will attend. Meeting someone new may lead you to a new colleague or friend who can help you gain knowledge from the best in the field.

3. MEET THE VENDORSOur Exhibit Hall is a valued part of the conference. Vendors come from all over to show you new technologies and products that can improve your work place and recreation offerings. Please take some time and visit every booth.

4. EARN CEUs Awarded in accordance with the International Association for Continuing Education and Training Guidelines.

5. SHARE BACK HOMEAfter attending the conference, you will feel refreshed, inspired and full of new ideas to take back and share with your department.

THANK YOU TO THE 2018 CONFERENCE & EXPO SPONSORS

as of 12/4/17Handcrafted by the Kalahari Resorts and Conventions theme shop, the “Joshua Tree” stands tall in the lobby of the Convention Center.

6 Download the Conference App on your phone!

Tours

Thursday, March 29

2:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Pocono Raceway Tour

Fee: $5

Start your engines! Don’t miss out on a great opportunity to visit the Pocono Raceway, Home of the Tricky Triangle, where the most famous NASCAR Circuit comes to town twice a year. The tour will feature a walkthrough of the Raceway including a look at the grandstand area, infield, and the most famous Victory Lane! Did you know that they provide camping opportunities onsite also? They even host Tricky’s Kit Kamp for kids. If the store is operational, we may get a chance to check it out and get a souvenir to take home.

Thursday, March 29

8:30 am - 9:45 am

Kalahari Resorts: Behind the Scenes Tour

Get a behind the scenes tour of America’s largest indoor water park at 220,000 sq. ft. It features a retractable roof, stand-up surfing or body boarding on the FlowRider, the twists and turns of the Anaconda and Swahili Swirl waterslides, relaxing lazy river and more! Learn from Kalahari staff what it takes to make such a large and multi-faceted facility a success!

Wednesday, March 28

8:30 am - 9:45 am

Headed through the Door of Hotel and Resort Management - An insider’s look at Kalahari!

Ever wonder what a career in Hotel and Resort Management would be like? Come see for yourself as Kalahari staff lead a session throughout the resort grounds, pointing out facility highlights and answering questions you maybe have about this wonderful resort and convention center along the way. The session will begin with a sit down overview of Kalahari Resort and Convention Center followed by the walking tour.

TESTIMONIAL"I had a great time as a first time attendee! I am glad that I joined PRPS and am able to connect with professionals in the field as I prepare to graduate from Penn State!" Kashia Quay, Student, Penn State University

Register Now at www.prps.org 7

Speaker Highlights

BARBARA HELLERBarbara Heller is President of Heller and Heller Consulting, LLC, a management consulting firm specializing in state and local government, primarily in the parks and recreation industry. Her areas of specialty include: strategic planning, master planning, service quality assessments, operational/organizational reviews, leadership development, facilitation of public input processes, and staff training with clients all over the United States.

She has additional consulting experience with Sasaki Associates and PROS Consulting and has been performing client focused consulting engagements for 11 years. Previous to consulting experience, Barbara spent over 30 years working at the local government level with a variety of park systems. She was the Executive Director of the Naperville Park District and Elk Grove, Park District, both in Illinois. Heller has held other positions with municipal government organizations in Arlington, TX, Montgomery County, MD and Prince William County, VA.

She has been a frequent speaker at the NRPA Annual Conference and state conferences for the past 20 years. Her areas of expertise include leadership, innovation, planning, organizational change, service quality, the use of quality tools and lean practices, and operational systems.

MARC MEROMarc Mero’s enthusiasm is contagious as he empowers people of all ages and walks of life to make pos-itive choices and achieve their highest potential. Marc achieved fame as a WCW and WWE Wrestling Champion and 4-time NY State Golden Gloves Boxing Champion. Author of “How to be the Happiest Person on the Planet” and Founder of Champion of Choices nonprofit, he has shared his inspiring life story with over one million people. Marc is recognized as a Youth Advocate and “America’s #1-Request-ed Anti-Bullying Presenter.” Marc has made appearances on several national TV shows including CNN Headline News, Glenn Beck, Nancy Grace and Montel Williams, as well as completed hundreds of radio and press interviews. Delivering a POZitive message of inspiration at corporations, schools and church-es worldwide, Marc Mero dedicates his life to helping people discover the true “Champion” within. We can all “Dream Big” and make Positive Choices – and the “Time is Now!”

JEFF LONGJeff Long is President and CEO of Pattison Sports Group, a sports property and management firm specializing in sponsorship sales, strategic planning, activation, event management under the Victory Events Series banner. In addition, he is the Founder and CEO of Healthy Kids Running Series (HKRS), a national non-profit whose mission is to motivate kids to live a healthy and active lifestyle through the introduction of running. HKRS is one of the largest youth running programs in the country with over 200 locations. A graduate of Saint Joseph’s University (English ’91, M.B.A ’05) Jeff has twenty-five plus years of sports marketing experience from working at Rutgers University, Atlantic 10 Conference and the Philadelphia Eagles.

While at the Philadelphia Eagles he served as Director of Corporate Partnerships responsible for generating $20,232,376 in gross sales. Jeff also negotiated the largest non-exclusive team beer sponsorship in sports (Miller Brewing Co.) history.

"My work is my life and I am very proud of what I have done," says Jeff. Despite his growing success he remains grounded and finds time to coach his sons' teams. Raised in Cherry Hill he resides in Thornton, PA with his and three sons: Jackson, Brent and Nicholas. Jeff is an active member of the National Sports Marketing Network and a Board Member for Healthy Kids Running Series.

8 Download the Conference App on your phone!

Educational Sessions - tuesday, March 271:00 PM - 2:15 PM

Brownfields to Playfields: From Ruins to Recreation

The cooperative pilot project program aims to restore and repurpose more than 40 acres of former industrial lands for recreation and conservation purposes, particularly in underserved communities, by improving project coordination between multiple state agencies, local governments, federal programs and private partnerships.

The presentation will showcase several pilot projects in various stages of redevelopment, including design and cleanup. The steps involved in redeveloping properties, providing technical assistance and leveraging variety of funding sources will be discussed.

Rick Bogart, RLA – Recreation and Conservation Advisor, PA DCNR Bureau of Recreation and Conservation Kim Hoover – Environmental Group Manager, PA Department of Environmental Protection

Showing Up as Your Best Self. Every. Single. Day

In this day and age just showing up can be quite an adventure! Showing up as your best is challenging, even more so doing it EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. This session will provide some helpful techniques to show up at your best daily through interactive and entertaining examples that participants can take back and easily incorporate themselves or share with others at work and beyond.

Bill Salvatore – Leadership & Organizational Development Manager, Philadelphia Parks and Recreation

Pennsylvania’s Deep Dive into Improving Park Maintenance

Is park maintenance a struggle in your municipality? Do you wish for help in making your parks safe, clean, and a pleasure to spend time in? This is the session for you. Hear about PRPS’s progress on a grant funded project to create an action plan to help build capacity for community park maintenance. Weigh in with your ideas and suggestions for what could be done statewide to help advance local park maintenance. We want to hear from you!

Ann Toole – CPRP, Parks and Recreation Planner, Toole Recreation Planning

Overcoming Drug and Alcohol Addiction: What Parks and Recreation Can Do

Communities are faced with escalating rates of drug abuse, overdose and death - specifically within populations under the age of thirty. Come learn more about the Generation Found documentary, and how the Chester County Department of Drug and Alcohol Services and East Goshen Township Department of Parks and Recreation teamed up to address this problem.

Kate Genthert – Drug & Alcohol Prevention Specialist, Chester County Department of Drug and Alcohol Services Jason Lang, CPRP – Director of Parks and Recreation, East Goshen Township

One Man Show

Step right up for the ONE-man SHOW!! It doesn’t always take a whole circus for a big show, but it can be ONE person to make it ALL happen! There are many local governments that have small administrative office, especially in the Parks and Recreation Department. Listens to a panel of professionals who make amazing things happen all by themselves. One-person departments can be mighty but face many challenges. The Panel will speak about what works, what does work and ideas to operating a one-person Parks and Recreation Department.

Paula Simmons – Parks and Recreation Director, South Fayette Township Rob Lewis – Borough of Wyomissing, Director of Parks and Recreation Thomas Marino – Richland Township, Vice Chairperson of the Richland Township Park and Rec Board

Parks & Tech – Creating Smarter Parks

The Internet of Things (IoT) is everywhere from the fitness trackers on our wrists to the infrastructure in our cities. The amount of sensors and IoT technologies is predicted to increase four times by 2020, and parks and no exception. Learn about the newest technologies, software, and data sources that can help make your park operations more efficient, the services you provide more equitable, and what you need to consider during installation and purchase to realize their full potential.

Bobbi Nance, CPRP – President, Recreation Results

TESTIMONIAL"I like attending the PRPS conference each year because it gives me a chance to network with my fellow professionals."Karen Schreiber, CPRP, Recreation Superintendent, Muhlenberg Twp. Parks & Recreation

Register Now at www.prps.org 9

Educational Sessions - tuesday, March 27 2:30 PM - 3:45 PM

How Permanent is Your Park?

People rely on their parks and other public open spaces as stable, reliable places for rest and renewal. But just how permanent are they? And what are permissible and impermissible uses of the land? Join this session to learn about protections afforded to local parks and open spaces under Pennsylvania law and steps your community can take to strengthen these protections. We will discuss the various factors that come into play: state statutes, the PA Constitution, state deed restrictions, etc. We will also review recent PA Supreme Court rulings, and tools for ensuring the permanence of these lands. Time will be provided for open discussion and audience participation.

Ashley Rebert – Chief Land Conservation and Stewardship, PA DCNR Andrew Loza – Executive Director, Pennsylvania Land TRust George Jugovic, Jr. – Vice President of Legal Affairs, PennFuture

Regional Recreation Roundtable

There are several regional recreation commissions and authorities that have surfaced over the years but having the time to trade thoughts on success and failures has been difficult as we are caught up in surviving until the next day. Let’s collaborate and discuss what has kept us moving forward or maybe learn from others what not to do so we are not set back in our path to achieving success. Join us in this roundtable discussion to share ideas on programming, policies, operations, and most importantly working with our municipal partners to keep everyone happy and engaged.

Mark Palerino, CPRP AFO – Recreation Director, Blue Mountain Recreation Commission Jason Boris – Recreation Supervisor, Sports & Playgrounds, Blue Mountain Recreation Commission Mike Piaskowski – Landscape Partnerships and Educational Services Section, PA DCNR

People, Pollinators and Public Spaces

Did you know 80% of the crop plants we eat require pollination by insects and birds? Without insects our ecosystem will collapse because so many other animals rely on them for food. The USDA estimated that crops dependent on pollination are worth more than $10 billion per year. Pollinators are declining due to habitat loss. Public spaces can provide an alternative refuge to pollinators. Learn more about the importance of pollinators and educating your community to how they can help.

Ginny Levy – Past President; 2018 Garden Club of American National Conference Chair

Gail Warner-Lidondici – President, West Chester Garden Club of America

Jason Lang, CPRP – Director of Parks and Recreation, East Goshen Township

How to Develop a “Must Fund” DCNR Grant Application

Recreational opportunities abound within your park facilities; from active to passive, unstructured to structured, group oriented to individual, nature based to high tech. Are you interested in rehabilitating an existing park or developing a new one? How do I incorporate best management practices into the design and future maintenance of my facility? Through this lively and interactive session, learn how to get the process started, who has the funding and how can you successfully get your hands on it.

Lori Yeich – Recreation and Conservation Manager, PA DCNR, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation Beth Helterbran – Small Community Program Specialist, PA DCNR, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation

Inclusion: Are You All In?

We were all born INcluded. So why is there exclusion? IN thinking about your programs, activities, and events in your facilities, are you really INcluding everyone? Let’s change the attitudinal barriers, review important disability facts and gain a new perspective about engaging INdividuals with developmental and physical disabilities, ADHD and Autism. This session is INteractive... are you ready to be INvolved?

Genevieve Jennai – Program Access Specialist M-NCPPC/Montgomery Parks Marybeth Dugan – Program Access Coordinator, M-NCPPC/Montgomery Parks

Seasonal Employee Development and Retention Strategies

Recruiting and training qualified and enthusiastic talent each fall and spring can be difficult. However, having staff who impress program participants is essential to program success and growth. The most efficient way to employ talented people is to retrain as many talented people from previous seasons as possible. Learn how to save on recruitment and training costs and ensure program continuity from year to year with tips and strategies is learned in this session.

Jessica Fox – Director of Recreation, Bristol Township

Expo Hall Grand Opening/Reception

Tuesday, March 27: 4:00 pm-6:15 pm

new this year!vendor spotlights

10 Download the Conference App on your phone!

Right to Know

The Office of Open Records was established in 2009 as part of Pennsylvania’s Right to Know Law (RTKL), which moved the state to the forefront of government transparency. This training, which covers the RTKL in detail, provides a solid foundation for Agency Open Records Officers as well as elected officials and managers that are responsible for administering access to public records. The session will provide guidance on responsibilities, deadlines, best practices; and touch on court cases that have impacted how the law is applied. Questions are encouraged in an interactive, informal setting.

George Spies – Chief of Outreach and Training, Pennsylvania Office of Open Records

The In’s and Out’s of Budgeting

This panel will discuss developing a budget calendar, determining program fees, and structuring spreadsheets and tracking projects.

Brian Shapiro – Finance Director, Middletown Township Megan Prusienski – Director of Parks and Recreation, Perkasie Borough

Prioritizing Park Improvements

With competing public interests and dwindling funding for grants, prioritizing and gaining support for park development projects is critical. Learn how to identify the park infrastructure most in need of attention and examine how well parks are meeting current community needs through tools such as park score cards, equity mapping, and others.

Bobbi Nance, CPRP – President, Recreation Results

I Did Everything Right…So What’s Wrong?

Tips and tricks on how to assess common pool problems related to water chemistry, such as cloudy water, no chlorine readings, pH bounce, cyanuric effect on alkalinity, phosphates problems, odd test kit issues and more. Filtration problems such as changing sand in the filter, cleaning and changing DE screens, things to look for when not flowing correctly, automated chemical feeder problems and more. Also discussed will be the most common commercial pool problems will be addressed with time allocated for Q & A.

Trevor Sherwood – Owner, Pool Operation Management, Inc.

Educational Sessions - wednesday, March 288:30 am - 9:45 am

Headed through the Door of Hotel and Resort Management - An insider’s look at Kalahari!

Ever wonder what a career in hotel and Resort Management would be like? Come see for yourself as Kalahari staff lead a session throughout the resort grounds, along the way pointing out facility highlights and answering questions you maybe have about this wonderful resort and convention center. The session will begin with a sit down overview of Kalahari Resort and Convention Center followed by the walking tour.

Kalahari Resort Staff

Creating an Inclusive and Accessible Outdoor Recreation Event

Creating an event is not easy. Creating an event that is inclusive and accessible is even harder. We will discuss simple and easy ways to create a successful inclusive and accessible event on a budget. Priority areas discussed will be planning, partnering, budget, advertising, parking setup, event space setup, and the items that are needed to make it inclusive and accessible.

Brian Rogers – Community Accessibility Coordinator, Lehigh Valley Center for Independent Living Bob Amelio – Accessibility Coordinator, Lehigh Valley Center for Independent Living

Public Safety at Outdoor Events & Festivals

Dive into the world of public safety as we discuss a team-based approach to preparing, planning, and permitting outdoor events and festivals. Involving all emergency services and evaluating risks in advance is essential to a successful, safe public event. Topics covered include emergency access routes, event layout principals, inclement weather planning, setting up a risk management plan, and current trends in safety and security at outdoor events and festivals.

Lee Laubach – Fire Chief/EMC, City of Allentown Tony Alsleben – Police Administration Captain, City of Allentown Eric Gatz – EMS Operations Manager, City of Allentown

1:15 PM – 2:30 pm

KEYNOTE: Choices

Marc Mero, Former WWE Wrestling Champion and Author of “How to be the Happiest Person on the Planet,” reached the pinnacle of sports-entertainment success – then lost it all — but in the process discovered what’s most important in life. Everyone faces adversity. “It’s not how many times you get knocked down, it’s how many times you get back up. You can do anything you set your mind to!” Marc shares his captivating journey with audiences worldwide and inspires people to examine their life choices. Listeners feel a greater sense of appreciation toward their relationships and the “gift of time” – and are empowered to make a difference in their personal life, career, and community. As the founder of the nonprofit organization, Champion of Choices, Marc dedicates his life to helping others be the “Champion” they’re destined to be! Get ready to be inspired! Keynote Speaker - Marc Mero ***Sponsored by Landscape Structures***

Register Now at www.prps.org 11

Educational Sessions - wednesday, March 282:45 pm - 4:00 pm

Ten Steps for Successful Sponsorships

This session provides 10 key steps for implementing a successful relationship with corporate sponsors. Upon completion, participants will understand the critical importance of developing corporate donor relationships, how to rate corporate prospects, the process to solicit sponsors, developing sponsorship materials, and creating successful relationships.

Nancy Pfeffer – Regional Manager, Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission

The Power of Parks & Park Equity

Pittsburgh’s green future lies in parks. Meg Cheever, President & CEO of the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, cites park equity as front and center to that successful future. Pittsburgh has 160 parks and bringing them all to an equal state of beauty, safety, and health. Cheever will discuss the challenge of finding the resources to bring every park in every neighborhood of the city to excellent condition and the resources to keep them that way.

Meg Cheever – President & CEO, Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy

Motivating and Retaining Part Time Staff

Keeping quality employee’s year after year is inherently difficult. Departments sink hundreds, if not thousands of dollars into training a seasonal staff member to not have them return the next year. Learn training and retention methods that will keep those sought-after employees coming back every season, helping to keep overall training costs at a minimum. These methods will also help to create a fun and productive work environment that people will look forward to being a part of.

Jackie Dwyer – Executive Director, Gettysburg Area Recreation Authority

Adulting: How to Move from Student to Professional

Transitioning from full-time student to an internship or full-time job can feel a bit like visiting another country - what is the culture? How do I fit in? Will everyone think I don’t belong there? When we travel, we first research the country and develop a plan. “Adulting” can be much less stressful if treated like a trip. This session will discuss this not-too-far away land of “Adulthood” and help you develop a plan for a smooth transition.

Julie Saville – Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator, York College of PA Lauren Hannaford – Area Coordinator, York College of PA

It’s Not Just About the Water

Maintaining water quality is important but facility upkeep and addressing safety issues is just as important to the pool patron’s health, safety and enjoyment. The attendees will be guided on how to perform a typical pool inspection to assess safety features, operation equipment and structural integrity of a swimming pool based upon industry standards and governmental codes.

Trevor Sherwood – Owner, Pool Operation Management, Inc.

Trends in Playspace Design

Parks today face the challenge of providing environments that will attract children and families to engage, play and stay. To compete with indoor, more sedentary activities. In this session, we will examine playground trends that create kid magnets, that facilitate multi-generational interaction, or signature playgrounds that tell a community story.

What role does good design play in society? How do you know it when you see it? What goes into creating it? Is excellence ever easy?

Through these questions and examples from around the world, we will examine global trends and their impacts on designing impactful playground environments today. Discussions will also focus on the opportunities for stronger collaboration between playground designers and Landscape Architects.

Michael Fingeroth – Northeast Regional Manager, Landscape Structures, Inc.

Expo Hall Farewell Reception

Wednesday, March 28: 4:00 Pm-6:00 pm

will include two vendor spotlights

12 Download the Conference App on your phone!

Educational Sessions - thursday, March 298:30 am - 9:45 am

Kalahari Resorts: Behind the Scenes Tour

Get a behind the scenes tour of America’s largest indoor water park at 220,000 sq. ft. that features a retractable roof, stand-up surfing or body boarding on the FlowRider, the twists and turns of the Anaconda and Swahili Swirl waterslides, relaxing lazy river and more! Learn from Kalahari staff what it takes to make such a large and multi-faceted facility a success!

Hey! “I Wanna Play Too”. Low Cost Inclusion Strategies.

Inclusion does not necessarily have to be expensive; just creative. This interactive session will provide tips and ideas to enable staff to create solutions for basic community recreation inclusion challenges.

Kathleen Muller – CPRP Director of Strategic Initiatives, Philadelphia Parks and Recreation

LGBTQ Community Outreach and Accommodation

Will include current definitions and explanations of essential language, and symbols that describe and engage the LGBTQ population, and that avoid barriers to outreach. Focuses on current federal, state, and municipal laws, policies, requirements, and best practices that have an impact on LGBTQ people. It presents unique facility needs, including rest room equity, and health disparities/priorities. It explains that professionalism may require understanding that past disparities require additional efforts to create equity in the present.

Liz Bradbury – Director of the Training Institute, Bradbury-Sullivan LGBTQ Community Center

Adventure from Repairs to New: Facility Management Journey

Asset and facility management is important for any organization, but tools like work order management software can help aid the ease of managing systems at all scales. This session will delve into the work order management system of Philadelphia Parks and Recreation and how useful of a tool it can be for communication across multiple divisions. The session will also explain the journey toward creating a valid work order system and relate this valuable tool to other sized municipalities. Examples of the types of data that can be utilized from a properly set up work order system will be given.

Josh Bell – Park Manager 2, Philadelphia Parks and Recreation

Youth Sports Leagues: Smooth Sailing or Rough Seas

What makes running a youth sports league challenging? Ever wish the season would run smoothly? Youth Sports Leagues: Smooth Sailing or Rough Seas will examine the City of Allentown Parks & Recreation Department’s Youth Basketball Leagues and reveal aspects of league administration that work best while sharing stories and events that can be challenging for even the most seasoned professional. Participants should come prepared with their own league policies, manuals, and challenging stories to share with the group.

Ryan Griffiths, CYSA – Recreation Program Specialist, City of Allentown Parks and Recreation Department Christopher Hendricks – Recreation Program Specialist, City of Allentown Parks and Recreation Department Jared Howard – Program Intern, City of Allentown Parks and Recreation Department

Design Innovation in your Park System

What are the next great ideas that will keep your parks system active and relevant? This session will explore the innovative practices being used to bring new life, activity and users into park systems and engage people in a meaningful way with outdoor space and recreation. Through case studies of real projects, participants will understand how they can be inspired by these ideas and put them into play in their communities. Are these simply trends or can they be sustainable over time.

Anthony Bracalli – Vice President, The Goldenberg Group

Navigating the Marketing Jungle: Common Sense Tips & Techniques

How do you promote your events, and determine the effectiveness of your efforts? Marketing has evolved rapidly in today’s high tech world; while budgets remain the same or decrease. Learn the proven marketing techniques Berks County Parks and Recreation uses to promote their programs and special events. This session will include social media as well as other established avenues to promote your parks and programs. Time will be available for participants to share what marketing efforts have worked for you.

Becky Richards, CPP – Recreation Program Supervisor, Berks County Parks and Recreation Department

Register Now at www.prps.org 13

Educational Sessions - thursday, March 29

1:15 pm - 2:30 pm

Converting Golf Courses To Parks

When no longer economically viable for golf, courses offer wonderful possibilities for active and passive recreation, improving wildlife habitat and water quality. This session will highlight two communities and a federal wildlife refuge that have begun converting a golf course to other community recreation and wildlife uses. Elements to be discussed will include acquisition, design, adaptive reuse of buildings, habitat restoration practices and paying for it.

Drew Gilchrist – Regional Advisor PA DCNR Kristy Owens – Parks and Recreation Director, Spring Township Derek Dureka – Parks and Recreation Director, Upper Dublin Township Mike Horne – Refuge Manager, US Fish and Wildlife Service

Tennis for Everyone!

Through your local programs, as you continue to introduce the sport to the next generation of players, you are the face of tennis in your communities. And as the game’s governing body, the USTA is committed to making investments in providing you with resources (e.g. grants, facility assistance program, turn-key curriculum) designed to create and expand programs that are affordable and self-sustaining, make your jobs easier, and provide recognition for your efforts; all at no cost!

Delia Sescioreanu Mask –NetGeneration/Youth Coordinator, USTA Renee Lentz – Tennis Services Representative, USTA Middle States

Grants for Community Pools

Descriptions of grant application from analysis of current conditions, demographics of support and recommendations for funding through a feasibility study to issuance of funding during construction.

Ben Hanbicki – Owner, Wade Associates II

Entrepreneurial Park Professional

Entrepreneur is one that organizes, manages, and assumes risk for an enterprise. This implies both a proactive sense of ownership, and a willingness to try new approaches. This is what we all need strive for to be highly effective park and recreation professionals.

The presentation will focus on:

• The diverse range of things that fall under park and recreation • How if done well, parks and recreations can make better communities • Innovation • Positioning • LeadershipThe point of this talk is that if we have to potential to change the world for the better, it is our responsibility to do all we can to achieve that. By taking an entrepreneurial approach we can serve our communities better and achieve great results.

Paul Gilbert – Executive Director, NOVA Parks

Hiring & Working with Design Professionals

This session will outline the services that Design Professionals provide for clients and the varying methods they use to deliver those services. Focus will be on the steps in the design and documentation process commonly used, the technology being employed and the criteria that can be used to solicit design professionals for projects. Using case studies from actual projects and samples of specific work tasks, Tony Bracalli will outline in detail the reasons why careful upfront planning sets the stage for more successful capital projects.

Anthony Bracalli – Vice President, The Goldenberg Group

Main Street Rising: Statewide Organizing for Urban(ish) Parks

Across the Commonwealth, higher density cities and towns are often met with unique demands in their parks and rec centers. This panel discussion, hosted by the Pennsylvania Urban Alliance for Parks and Recreation will discuss how we can organize to share best practices, grow resources, and prosper together.

George Matysik – Executive Director, Philadelphia Parks Alliance Heather Sage - Director of Community Projects, Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy

10:00 am - 11:15 am

KEYNOTE: Creating a Great Place to WorkCreating an innovative and dynamic work environment results in a more satisfying employee experience and results in a productive and motivated workforce. Furthermore, successful attributes of an engaging work environment result in overall organizational excellence. What does it take to create such an exciting organization? Common elements include great leadership, a well-defined organizational culture, a commitment to employee empowerment and engagement, and an emphasis on high performance. The session will provide an overview of what it takes to develop a culture that promotes organizational excellence and inspires team and individual performance.

Barbara Heller, President of Heller and Heller Consulting, LLC

14 Download the Conference App on your phone!

Educational Sessions - thursday, March 292:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Pocono Raceway Tour

Start your engines! Don’t miss out on a great opportunity to visit the Pocono Raceway, Home of the Tricky Triangle, where the most famous NASCAR Circuit comes to town twice a year. The tour will feature a walkthrough of the Raceway including a look at the grandstand area, infield, and the most famous Victory Lane! Did you know that they provide camping opportunities onsite also? They even host Tricky’s Kit Kamp for kids. If the store is operational, we may get a chance to check it out and get a souvenir to take home.

2:45 pm - 4:00 pm

Think Big - Improving Citizen Services with Technology

This session is designed to help attendees navigate the opportunities and barriers that come with implementing technology as part of service delivery. Learn how enterprise content management can streamline your business processes while enhancing customer service. You will have the chance to view real world solutions being implemented by Loudoun County, Virginia Parks, Recreation and Community Services.

Dan Bureau – Division Manager of Children’s Programs and Adaptive Recreation, Loudoun County, Virginia Parks, Recreation and Community Services

Are they really an Employee and not a Contractor?

The Employee and the Independent Contractor are two very different types of relationships for Employers. It may be reasonable for you to believe that an Individual is an Independent Contractor, but the regulatory agencies and Laws may say otherwise.

This presentation will discuss:

• Referees, Umpires, Coaches, Fitness Instructors • Liability and Workers’ Compensation – are you covered?• What paperwork does PA require?• Newsworthy misclassifications

Guidelines per the Internal Revenue Service, National Labor Relations Board and US Department of Labor. You will also be provided with a Checklist to help you determine – is this an Employee or Independent Contractor?

Trish Richardson, CPP SPHR SHRM-SCP – Partnership Coordinator, Paytime, Inc.

Connecting the Health and Outdoors

Research shows the important role nature and the outdoors plays in public health – nature lowers blood pressure, relieves anxiety, and boosts our immune system. How can park and recreation agencies leverage that knowledge to improve health? NaturePHL and Pittsburgh Parks Rx are two new programs that are encouraging children (and adults) to explore and enjoy nature nearby in their local parks. Both programs share a passion for growing healthier children who love their local parks but have different implementing approaches.

Diane Kripas – Division Chief, DCNR Kathryn Hunninen – Senior Manager of Special Initiatives, Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy Aaliyah Green Ross – Director of Education,Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education Elisa Sarantschin – NaturePHL Program Coordinator, Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education

Stone Soup- How to Build Partnerships to Grow Your Agency

This session will focus on developing and cultivating partnerships. Specific examples will be discussed where parkland acquisitions were done with little for no money. Bring your stone, and sell the dream of how great the end product can be, if we all just chip in!

Paul Gilbert – Executive Director, NOVA Parks

Small Solutions for Skateboarding in Your Community

Many Park and Recreation organizations have increasingly limited resources to apply to capital projects. Typical skateparks can require a major capital investment. This session will explore examples and case studies how small “skate spots” (or “skate dots”) can address the needs of skateboarders and the local community... and how they can be built affordably.

Anthony Bracalli – Vice President, The Goldenberg Group Joshua Nims, JD – Schulykill rover Development Corporation

Parents as Partners

This session explores our attitudes toward parents and guardians of the participants in our programs. Ideas to increase communication and to welcome parents will be shared. Scenarios that address delicate topics, common miscommunications and hard feelings will be used to enhance your skills in an entertaining format.

Kathleen Muller, CPRP – Director of Strategic Initiatives, Philadelphia Parks and Recreation

friday, March 309:00 am - 10:30 am

Networking Breakfast & Endnote: Jeff Long, President & CEO, Pattison Sports Group

Healthy Kids Running Series to your town!Listen in on how you can bring Healthy Kids Running Series (HKRS) to your town to create programming and revenue. HKRS is a 5-week spring & fall running series, for boys and girls Pre-K through Middle School, whose mission is to motivate kids to live a healthy and active lifestyle. The races are typically between 3pm-6pm on Sundays. There is no out-of-pocket expense to get started. HKRS has impacted thousands of families across the country.

Register Now at www.prps.org 15

Registration HoursThe registration area will be in the main lobby

entrance to the Exhibit Hall and will be open the following days and times:

Tuesday, March 27: 8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday, March 28: 8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday, March 29: 8:00 am-5:00 pm

socialsTuesday March 27 - Adult Egg Hunt

9:00 pm to 12:00 am

Adult Egg Hunt, will be going on all day! Eggs will be hidden throughout the conference center including the vendor area. Great prizes and a visit from “Bad Bunny”. Interactive games and DJ Special D will be scratching it up from 9 pm to 12 am. Location: Vendor Hall

Wednesday March 28: Dance Band

8:00 pm to 12:00 am

Magician and ventriloquist Daniel Clemente will be showing off his talents from 8pm to 9pm followed by some walk-around magic. From 9 pm to 12 am. Mr. Radio (a 5 piece dance band) will take the stage for our dancing pleasure.

Thursday March 29 - all district lip sync battle with dj dave boice

9:00 pm to 12:00 am

Get ready to do battle across district lines!!! Each district will get to perform 2 songs of their choosing. The winning district will take home the ALL DISTRICT BELT. DJ Dave Boice will keep us dancing all night. The Party is from 9 pm to 12 am.

16 Download the Conference App on your phone!

Full Conference RegistrationRegistration includes all meals, name badge, program guide, educational sessions, exhibit hall admission, socials, coffee and refreshment breaks.

Student Full ConferenceRegistration includes Wednesday student luncheon, Wednesday dinner and Thursday lunch, name badge, program guide, educational sessions, exhibit hall admission, socials, coffee and refreshment breaks.

Daily and Student RegistrationRegistration includes lunch for the day (except on Tuesday), name badge, program book, educational sessions, exhibit hall admission, socials, coffee and refreshment breaks.

Special NeedsPRPS will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate persons with special needs. Please help us to help you by completing the special needs section on the online registration form.

What You Should Bring AlongaCasual clothes, dress clothes/formal attire for the Awards BanquetaSwimsuit, athletic wearaBrochures and program information to shareaBusiness cardsaNotebook or portfolio for note-taking at sessionsaReusable water bottleaLabels for pool prize ticketsaPhone, laptop, charger

Student ScholarshipsThe Larry G. Williamson, Robert Crawford Memorial, Delores Andy, Buzz D. Tyson, and John H. Jones Memorial Scholarships are generously contributed funds allowing six students to attend the conference free of charge. To download applications go to www.prps.org. The filing deadline is March 2, 2018.

Room HostsIf you are interested in Room Hosting, contact Alex Kaker, Room Host Committee Chair by email akaker@uppergwynedd.org. When you register, please select the room host box. The Room Host Chair will contact you to confirm your selection and provide simple instructions.

Here are a few of the Room Host Responsibilites:• Pick up room host packet and review contents• Report to assigned session room, greet speaker, review AV• Introduce speaker and make any other announcements• Assist speaker as needed• Thank speaker and give them their speaker gift• Collect evaluations• Initial and verify CEU forms

Conference InformationExhibit HallThe Exhibit Hall includes approximately 80 commercial and educational exhibits. The cost for a commercial 8’ x 10’ booth is $750 member and $975 non-member. If you are interested in exhibiting, please contact Emily Gates at the PRPS office at 814-234-4272 or email egates@prps.org.

Past Presidents’ LuncheonThe annual Past Presidents’ Luncheon will be held on Wednesday, March 28, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. All PRPS past presidents, honorary members, retired members, and their spouses are invited for the luncheon. Contact the PRPS office for more information and to make a reservation.

Student LuncheonWednesday, March 28, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm with PRPS District and Branch Presidents.

Society LuncheonThursday, March 29, from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. Student awards and the Green Park Award will be presented at this time.

Awards ReceptionThe Awards Reception will be held Thursday, March 29, from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Annual Awards BanquetThe Awards Banquet will be held Thursday, March 29 from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Annual Society award winners will be honored during the banquet.

Community Branch Raffle-Prize PoolThe Community Branch is once again organizing the ever-popular "PRPS Prize Pool". We are asking you to be generous again with donations for the PRPS Community Branch silent auction prize pool area. In the past we have auctioned show tickets, overnight accommodations at area resorts or hotels, clothing, autographed sports items, department or area baskets and business vendor items - this is a great way for businesses to get advertisement at the conference. The committee asks that prize baskets have a minimum value of $35.00. Other prize pool donations may be combined to create packages.

If you are willing and able to help in our mission, please contact: Becky Richards at rrichards@countyofberks.com.

Cancellation and Refund PolicyIf a cancellation is made in writing to PRPS more than 30 days prior to the start of the conference, the registration fee less a $25 service charge per person will be refunded. If a cancellation is received by PRPS less than 30 days prior to the start of the conference, a “credit” will be issued upon request, redeemable as a registration fee toward a future PRPS seminar. No-shows will be charged the full rate. If a scheduled presenter is not available due to unforeseen circumstances, PRPS reserves the right to schedule another presenter of equal ability and expertise.

Register Now at www.prps.org 17

LodgingJoin us as we experience the spirit of recreation at Kalahari Resort! Nestled deep in the Pocono Mountains, Kalahari takes you away on an authentic African Safari adventure.

Kalahari Function Space• 65,000 square feet of flexible space that includes:• 18 meeting rooms and multiple hospitality suites• 25,000 and 9,000 square-foot ballrooms• Outdoor event space

Additional Convention Center Amenities• Complimentary Wi-Fi in all guest rooms, meeting spaces,

exhibition areas and common areas• Full-service business center• Dedicated convention center loading dock• Large grade level access to main exhibit facility

Room optionsDeluxe Comforts at Authentic African-Themed Resort. Encompassing 977 guest rooms and suites , Kalahari Resorts & Conven-tions accommodations are well appointed with African décor, and offer an assortment of features and amenities to enhance your comfort.

Guest Rooms• 424 sq. ft. consisting of two queen beds with a queen size sofa sleeper.• Admission to the indoor waterpark and outdoor waterpark (seasonal, weather permitting) is included for each registered

hotel guest!• Room is priced for up to 4, you may add a 5th or 6th guest by using the sofa sleeper at $35 per person, per night. • An accessible version of this room style is available and is wheelchair accessible throughout with grab bars in the bath tubs.

Book Your Hotel RoomRoom Rates are $184* per room per night (single, double, triple, or quad!) Share a room and reduce your costs!* Total with taxes - $200.56($184 rate + 6% state tax + 3% local tax)

Individual attendees must reserve a room by calling 877-525-2427 no later than Sunday, February 24, 2018!

PRPS Room Block Code: PRPS2018

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions250 Kalahari Blvd.Pocono Manor, PA 18349www.kalahariresorts.com/pennsylvania

18 Download the Conference App on your phone!

conference Registration

3 ways to Register

ONLINE PHONE OR FAX: MAIL:www.prps.org P: 814-234-4272 Print the registration form at F: 814-234-5276 www.prps.org

REGISTRATION FEES By Feb. 14, 2018 After Feb. 14, 2018Full Conference Member Nonmember Member NonmemberProfessional (includes all meals)

$385 $475 $440 $550

Future Professional Full-time students only (includes Wed. lunch, dinner & Thurs. lunch)

$150 $175

Daily Registration Member Nonmember Member NonmemberProfessionalTuesday

$100 $150 $115 $175

Wednesday $150 $200 $175 $230Thursday $150 $200 $175 $230Future Professional or (Student), RetiredTuesday

$75 $85

Wednesday $75 $85Thursday $75 $85

3 WAYS TO SAVE 1. members Save $90 on a full conference registration

2. Save $55 by registering before February 14.

3. Share a room up to four and pay only $50 each plus taxes or bring a friend or your family

Register Now at www.prps.org 19

Sessions at a GlanceTuesday, March 27 - 1:00 PM - 2:15 PM

Brownfields to Playfields: From Ruins to RecreationShowing Up as Your Best Self. Every. Single. DayPennsylvania's Deep Dive into Improving Park MaintenanceOvercoming Drug and Alcohol Addiction: What Parks and Recre-ation Can DoOne Man ShowParks & Tech – Creating Smarter Parks

2:30 PM - 3:45 PM

How Permanent is Your Park?Regional Recreation RoundtablePeople, Pollinators and Public SpacesHow to Develop a “Must Fund” DCNR Grant ApplicationInclusion: Are you all in? Seasonal Employee Development and Retention Strategies

wednesday, march 28 - 8:30 AM - 9:45 AM

Headed Through the Door of Hotel and Resort Management - An Insider’s Look at Kalahari!Creating an Inclusive and Accessible Outdoor Recreation EventPublic Safety at Outdoor Events & FestivalsRight to KnowThe In's and Out's of BudgetingPrioritizing Park ImprovementsI did Everything Right…So What's Wrong?

1:15 pm – 2:30 PM

KEYNOTE: Choices

2:45 PM - 4:00 PM

Ten Steps for Successful SponsorshipsThe Power of Parks & Park EquityMotivating and Retaining Part Time StaffAdulting: How to move from Student to ProfessionalIt's Not Just About the WaterTrends in Playspace Design

thursday, march 29 - 8:30 AM - 9:45 AM

Kalahari Resorts: Behind the Scenes TourHey! “I Wanna Play Too”. Low Cost Inclusion Strategies. LGBTQ Community Outreach and AccommodationAdventure from Repairs to New: Facility Management JourneyYouth Sports Leagues: Smooth Sailing or Rough SeasDesign Innovation in your Park SystemNavigating the Marketing Jungle: Common Sense Tips & Tech-niques

10:00 AM - 11:15 AM

KEYNOTE: Working Toward a Calmer You: Strategies for Managing Stress

1:15 PM - 2:30 PM

Converting Golf Courses to ParksTennis for Everyone!Grants for Community PoolsEntrepreneurial Park ProfessionalHiring & Working with Design ProfessionalsMain Street Rising: Statewide Organizing for Urban(ish) Parks

2:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Pocono Raceway Tour - $5

2:45 PM - 4:00 PM

Think Big - Improving Citizen Services with TechnologyAre They Really an Employee and not a Contractor?Connecting the Health and OutdoorsStone Soup- How to Build Partnerships to Grow your AgencySmall Solutions for Skateboarding in Your CommunityParents as Partners

friday, march 30 9:00 am - 10:30 am

Endnote: Healthy Kids Running Series to your town

Download the Conference App on your phone!

Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society2131 Sandy DriveState College, PA 16803

Non-profit Org.U.S. Postage PAID

State College, PA 16801Permit No. 99

2018 PRPS Conference & ExpoMarch 27-30

REGISTER ONLINE atwww.prps.org

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT ENDS FEBRUARY 14, 2018