SEPTEMB

ER 2015 | VO

LUM

E 7 | NU

MB

ER 1

SAS K ATCH E WA N PA R KS A N D R ECR E AT I O N AS S O C I AT I O N

HAVING FUN IS SERIOUS BUSINESS!

Www.waterparks.ca

Some of Our 2015 Clients....

Raymore, Rocanville, Southey

Bienfait, Moosomin, RCMP Depot

Assiniboia, Alida, Residence Inn

Carlyle, Travelodge, Bredenbury

Foam Lake, City of Estevan……..

New Richardson Pioneer Community Waterpark, Raymore SK

1-306-519-7018

More than a pool, A destination !

Ecco Pool 2015

SPRA STAFF

MANAGEMENT

Chief Executive Officer Norm Campbell

Program Manager John Firnesz

Field Services Manager Randy Durovick

Communications, Information and Research Manager Chantel Doerksen

RECREATION CONSULTANTS

Information and Research Services Vacant

Communications Lori Ross Christian Bates-Hardy

Human Resources and Funding Lee Anne Balliett

Parks and Open Spaces Andrew Exelby

Physical Activity and Fitness Wendy McKellar

Aboriginal Support Tim Haywahe Leadership and Evaluation Karen Thompson

Recreation Facilities Kelly Skotnitsky

Youth Engagement Desirea Weninger

Assistant Consultant Carla Allen ADMINISTRATION

Business Administrator Mandy Selinger

Business Administrator Anita Ehman

Executive Assistant Lois McNaught

Administrative Technician Ryan Monks Administrative Assistant II Natalie McAmmond

Administrative Assistant I Kayla Schreiner Loralea Gianoli

Fitness/Administrative Assistant II Lynn Bradley

Regina Office: Phone: (306) 780-9231 or 1-800-563-2555

FIELD CONSULTANTS/ADMINISTRATION

Swift Current Jaclyn Davis Phone: (306) 778-1091

Rosetown/North Battleford Kerry Bailey/Janae Dawson Phone: (306) 882-6601

Prince Albert Rob Boulding/Shari Morash Phone: (306) 953-0052

Weyburn Sean Hanlon Phone: (306) 848-0274

Yorkton Darren Spelay/Tracy Malayney Phone: (306) 782-1072

Humboldt Clint McConnell/ Lynne Morelli Phone: (306) 682-5265

La Ronge Daniel Longman Phone: (306) 425-1910

SPRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President Mike Powell

Director for Cities Jasmine Jackman

Director for Towns Guylaine Green

Director for Villages Clive Craig

Director at Large Marvin Sanderson Director at Large Mimi Lodoen

Director at Large Dawna Nielson

Director at Large Coralie Bueckert

Director for the North TJ Biemans

June 2015 01

SEPTEMBER 2015 | VOLUME 7 | NUMBER 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

President’s Report 02 Take the Lead!® 03Saskatchewan Polytechnic - Recreation and Community Development 04June is Recreation & Parks Month - Live it Everyday 05The Business Behind the Fun 06Saskatchewan Provincial Parks - Learn to Camp 08 The Business of Play 09Healthy Workplace® Essentials 10 Events 11SPRA Conference 2015 - Having Fun is Still Serious Business 12Recreation Board Development 14Commercial Ads 14

DIRECTION is published four times a year (December, March, June and September). The publication is provided to members of the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association. Direct all communications to:

Editor, DIRECTION #100 - 1445 Park Street Regina, Saskatchewan S4N 4C5

You may also send letters or comments to Lori Ross, Communications Consultant, at 306.780.9370, by fax at 306.780.9257, or by email at lross@spra.sk.ca.

Articles within this magazine are the opinions of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the policies or opinions of SPRA. Articles in DIRECTION may be reprinted, provided that full credits are shown for the author and the magazine.

Supported by:

Www.waterparks.ca

Some of Our 2015 Clients....

Raymore, Rocanville, Southey

Bienfait, Moosomin, RCMP Depot

Assiniboia, Alida, Residence Inn

Carlyle, Travelodge, Bredenbury

Foam Lake, City of Estevan……..

New Richardson Pioneer Community Waterpark, Raymore SK

1-306-519-7018

More than a pool, A destination !

Ecco Pool 2015

02 September 2015

PRESIDENT’S REPORTWelcome to another edition of DIRECTION…Having Fun is Serious Business! That sure seems counterintuitive, but it really is true. There is a great deal of “work” involved in recreation, but I probably do not need to tell you that.

Many of you have graduated from post-secondary institutions that helped us understand the business side of what we love doing. I remember telling my family that I was going to get my degree in Recreation Administration. I am not sure they quite understood exactly what I was going to school for…to be honest - the professional field was so new at that time (did I mention I am old), that I might not have been that sure either. As it turns out, these institutions were enhancing the recreation sector by introducing skill sets into the recreation network throughout our province. Take a look at the article on Saskatchewan Polytechnic that discusses what skills are needed to be a quality recreation provider.

The thing is, everyone in the recreation sector needs to keep working to keep the fun going. The times are changing and society is evolving. There are so many new programs to consider - and the always present search for funding. All recreation providers have so much to be aware of to keep the quality in the fun. It is for these reasons that there are so many options for professional development. For example, see “The Business of Play” article that talks about the con-nection between fun and quality!

It would not be a fall edition without reference to June is Recreation & Parks Month. JRPM is a showcase for the hard work and effort that many volunteers and professionals put into serious fun!! Check out the short recap of awesome events and activities that put the fun into JRPM. When you do, give some thought to the business behind the events - the planning, the budgeting, the communication, the schedul-ing, the creativity, the staffing, the evaluation…and so much more. Try to look past the smiling faces and consider the provider responsible for the event. Perhaps you can catch up with that provider at the Conference in Yorkton and thank them for all their hard work!!

So maybe it is the summer heat, but I was thinking…If hav-ing fun is serious business…could the reverse be true? Can there be fun in the workplace and can the serious business continue? I feel the answer is an easy one. Many studies have discussed the link between happy employees and pro-ductive work. Workplace fun will certainly contribute to the enhanced morale of employees. Find some tips you can use in your office…or that you can pass on to the folks working in those business towers.

So everyone…Keep up the hard work having fun!!

Mike PowellSPRA President

September 2015 03

Take the Lead!® is a Saskatchewan born initia-tive, what inspired its creation?I was fortunate to be asked to develop a youth program that would address two major issues - inactivity among children in their leisure time, at recess, lunch hours, before and after school time; and aggressive behaviour on the playground and school. As a result, Take the Lead!® was born! My personal and professional experience reinforced my willingness and commitment to consider how to get young people excited to play and lead playground games! I was concerned with the lack of play occurring on the playground. Seeing children standing around and seemingly bored was bothersome. I knew this was a great opportunity to promote cooperative play activities. I wanted each child to know that they didn’t have to worry about being the fastest runner or strongest player but feel excited to simply play for the sheer enjoyment of play itself. I feel passionate about empowering young people to take leadership roles in their schools and communi-ties and recognized this program as a great opportunity!

What was the greatest challenge in creating the program? The greatest challenge was to develop something that would not overwhelm young people but rather equip them with tools on their leadership journey. The fact that we all are constantly learning and adapting our skill set is so important. Leadership and the Take the Lead!® program is about the process.

In your opinion, what has been the greatest ac-complishment of Take the Lead!® to date? Great question but so difficult to answer. At an individual level, seeing young people take on the challenge and grow in the program is phenomenal. I always enjoy re-visiting schools and communities who have implemented Take the Lead!® and see how engaged, active and dedicated the Youth Lead-ers are. In addition, seeing them lead their peers and younger youth is a huge accomplishment. Seeing the smiles and hear-ing the giggles as a group play “Chicken Run” or “Crazy Frog” says it all! At an organizational level, it is encouraging to see schools and organizations invest in Take the Lead!® and hear their success stories ranging from increased positive behav-

The Take the Lead!® program provides youth leaders with the life skills and knowledge neces-sary to provide healthy and safe play opportunities for their peers. Peggy Chorney, Play Advocate and Master Trainer for Take the Lead!® shares her experiences with the program from its initial stages to the Province wide program of excellence we see today!

iour in the classroom, increased self-esteem in youth leaders and youth participants, increased participation in physical activity and increased leadership skills.

In your experience, how has Take the Lead!® affected the youth involved? The individuals that attend Youth Leader workshops gener-ally start the training and realize how much fun it is! Many times I have been asked to come back for another day because they don’t want the workshop to end. Built into the Youth Leader workshop is an opportunity for Leaders to practice leading cooperative play opportunities for younger children with assistance from the Adult Trainer/Leadership Coach. After the first experience, I always hear the leaders indicate, “wow, this is a lot of work and actually a little harder than I thought it would be but so worth it!” I enjoy connecting with Leaders or hearing the stories of how this program has been a positive influence in their lives and has helped them become more active and confident young people!

What is one of your favourite memories of your time involved with Take the Lead!®?I conducted training a number of years ago and had a young man who was in attendance that really wasn’t that impressed to be there, and his behaviour proved to be a bit challenging. After the workshop I wondered, “would he continue with the program?” It didn’t seem favorable that he would. I went back after a few months and to my (pleasant) surprise he was thriving in the leadership role! Interestingly, months later a knock was at my door and there stood this young man. He told me something that makes everything I have ever done with Take the Lead!® worthwhile. He said that the experience changed his life! He now had increased confidence to try new things, and knew it was because of the skills that he learned through the program. He stated that in the past he always felt left out as he wasn’t an athlete and didn’t excel at school academics. Now he did excel as a Take the Lead!® Youth Leader!

Desirea WeningerSPRA Consultant - Youth Engagement

04 September 2015

OUR PROGRAMRecreation and Community Development (formerly Rec-reation and Tourism Management) is a two-year diploma program offered at Saskatchewan Polytechnic in Saskatoon. The comprehensive curriculum is relevant to real world trends, thanks to strong support from the industry. You’ll learn:■ feasibility plans ■ communication and computer skills ■ community and economic development■ cultural foundations ■ inclusive leisure ■ leadership skills■ event planning ■ legal aspects

With average class sizes of 20-25 students, you’ll enjoy a personalized learning experience and one-on-one time with instructors. You’ll gain more than industry-specific knowl-edge, you’ll build core management skills—skills you can use in any job, in any industry.

GET REALThe program provides a variety of opportunities for you to ap-ply what you’ve learned in practical labs and projects, in work experiences and in volunteer opportunities. You’ll develop the professional skills you need to help build active, healthy, sustainable communities.

HOW MANY PROGRAMS HAVE ‘CAMP’ ON THE CURRICULUM?You and your classmates will spend one week at Fall Camp and another week at Winter Camp planning outdoor pro-grams and leading outdoor education and recreational activities. It’s a great environment for building your cultural, environmental and community development skills.

SASKATCHEWAN POLYTECHNIC RECREATION AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENTInterested in a career in sport, cultural or recreation? Then take a look Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Recreation and Community Development program. Be a recreation director, manager of sport, recreation and culture, com-munity development officer, facility manager or special events manager. Your skills are in demand in rural and urban communities. Leadership, volunteerism, social awareness - these are characteristics shared by people working in recreation and community development. It’s a growth industry, and Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s new Recreation and Community Development program will help turn your passion into a dynamic career.

START BUILDING YOUR NETWORK Start building your network through opportunities to attend conferences and holding student memberships with industry associations, including Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA), Saskatchewan Association of Recreation Practitioners (SARP).

TURN YOUR DIPLOMA INTO A DEGREE Saskatchewan Polytechnic is your ladder into the Sport and Recreation Studies program at the University of Regina, the Business Administration program at Husson University/Uni-versity of Fredericton in New Brunswick, the Global Tourism Management program at Royal Roads University in Victoria, B.C. and the Tourism Management program at Vancouver Island University.

YOUR CAREER When you graduate, look for management and administrative opportunities in the public sector: municipal leisure depart-ments, regional community development organizations, natu-ral and regional parks, recreation facilities, non-profit event management .

For more information, contact:Vickie ClarkeProgram Head, Recreation and Community Development(306)659-4063 Vickie.clarke@saskpolytech.ca

September 2015 05

Communities across Saskatchwean showed us how having fun is serious business, during their June is Recreation & Parks Month Celebrations! This year there were 57 Ambassadors in the program, 27 of which signed the JRPM proclamation, as well as an over-whelming number of grant applicants. The program had a commendable level of community engagement in 2015. This year’s participants hosted a variety of events in communities all across Saskatchewan, all of which benefited their local community and allowed many opportunities for residents to have fun in parks, take part in recreational activities and demonstrate community pride.

SPRA would like to thank all of the communities who par-ticipated in the program this year and who continue to help us encourage people to “Live it Everyday”. We hope to see everyone involved again next year!

Trails Day in WeyburnThe City of Weyburn hosted a “Trails Day” for their commu-nity. The event took place in their local River Park where 150 people spent the day exploring and enjoying entertainment from local dance groups, after a free BBQ. Event hosts ex-pressed that the event was a large success. The Community Parks Board plan to host this as an annual event that can highlight a different park every year.

Macklin Minor Ball Days Macklin Lake Regional Park celebrated JRPM as they held their Minor Ball Days in mid-June this year. With over 200 participants, children aged 4-18 enjoyed three days of fun with their peers. The park made a point to open their gates to the public for the weekend to encourage everyone’s partici-

June is Recreation & Parks Month (JRPM)LIVE IT EVERYDAY

pation in this great opportunity. The weekend was considered a large success as there were up to 14 teams playing on the diamonds throughout the day.

Celebrate Indian Head DaysThe last weekend of June was a busy one for the community of Indian Head. The community’s Indian Head Days featured a town parade, children’s festival, entertainment and much more! The weekend was great fun for everyone and especially for the many kids who spent the day bouncing on some of the inflatable toys brought in for the event. Community Develop-ment Officer, Andrew Kerr, stated that over 300 people were in attendance throughout the event, with many expressing that this was their favorite day of the year!

Recreation in the Park- MelvilleThe City of Melville hosted a fun filled day in Kinsmen Park for their community to enjoy. The day consisted of a BBQ put on by the local Lion’s Club, bouncy castles, face painting, use of the new splash park and fire truck tours! In addition to cele-brating JRPM, the event also acted as a kick-start to the City’s fundraising efforts for their new swimming pool as well as an opportunity for students to sell ice cream and raise money for an overseas trip. The City’s Recreation Manager, Heather Miller, expressed that the event was a great opportunity to highlight their beautiful park and that fun was had by everyone who attended.

“It is always a nice thing to see when the community

comes together!” – Heather Miller, City of Melville Recreation Manager

Samantha IllerbrunSPRA Summer Program Development Assistant

SPOTLIGHT ON

06 September 2015

Have you ever wondered who the people are behind the great recreation and parks programs and services happening in

your community? Well, here’s a glimpse into the world of the recreation and parks profes-

sional - the business side of the fun!

THE BUSINESS BEHIND THE FUN

Darcy McLeodHow long have you been working in the recreation field and what positions have you held? 22 years. Postions held include: City of Regina - Recreation Program Co-odinator, Summer Programmer; Town of Lums-den - Recreation Program Co-ordinator; City of Saskatoon - Area Summer Program Co-ordinator; Town of Canora - Direc-tor of Leisure Services; City of Yorkton - Facilities Supervisor; and currently, City of Yorkton - Director of Community Devel-opment

What is your educational background? Recreation and Leisure Diploma, SIAST Kelsey Campus

What are the most important qualities to possess as a recreation director? You need a sound philosophical base…why do we do what we do/why is recreation and parks important as it will be chal-lenged by other departments and the decision makers who provide funding. Must have excellent communication skills…including verbal, written and listening to understand.

How do you make your programs and services both fun and safe? By providing ongoing professional development for program staff, instructors and guards including networking with other communities and ensuring they know why/what they are doing is important to the community.

What advice do you have for those wishing to pursue a career in parks and recreation? Understand why what you do is important to your community and surround yourself with people who understand it or are willing to learn. The process is more important than the end result…sometimes the priorities identified through the process change the intended result…it’s okay to be wrong as long as you learn from your mistakes…be humble!

Carla FerstlHow long have you been working in the recreation field and what positions have you held? I started with the Town of White City as the Community Centre Coordinator/Administrative Assistant, a position I held for four years. In October of 2014, I transitioned into the Recreation Director role and kept the Community Centre duties as well.

What is your educational background? I have a Business Administration Certificate and a Continu-ing Education in Business Administration Certificate through the University of Regina. I also attended the SPRA Spring Education and Training Symposium last April and received my Playground Safety Awareness, Risk Management and Developing a Policy and Procedures Manual certifications.

What is the best aspect of your job(s)? The best aspect of my job is helping to plan events or pro-grams that give residents the opportunity for physical activity and to have fun.

How do you make your programs and services both fun and safe? The best way to ensure programs and services are both fun and safe is to have trained leaders facilitating. Recreation Directors should always take care to employ people that have experience in the field and with the age of the clientele. The HIGH FIVE® program is great for Summer Play Coor-dinators that do not have a lot of experience. Regardless of how qualified the facilitators are, it’s important that Recre-ation Directors take steps to ensure policies and procedures are in place.

What advice do you have for those wishing to pursue a career in parks and recreation? A career in parks and recreation is very busy, but can be very rewarding. Learn as much as you can, create systems to keep you organized and most important of all, have fun!

SPOTLIGHT ON

September 2015 07

Cora Fischer How long have you been working in the recreation field and what positions have you held? I have been the Director of Parks, Culture and Recreation in Unity for 3 months. Previously, I was a Personal Trainer at a gym for 2.5 years. What is your educational background?Saskatchewan Polytechnic - Recreation and Tourism Management Course (2 years), CanFit Pro PS Certification, Pools Operations Certification, CPR/First Aid, Introduction to Canoe Certification, CALA Deep & Meaningful-Plyometrics, Pilates, Core Strengthening Certification, Service it Right Certification and HIGH FIVE® Certification.

What are the most important qualities to possess as a recreation director?People skills, time management, multi-tasking, listening, communication/customer service skills, grant writing knowl-edge, organization skills and the ability to think outside the box!

What is the best aspect of your job(s)? Not one dimensional, job tasks change from day-to-day, being outside, communicating with people, seeing your hard work pay off towards a goal. It is rewarding.

It’s been a part of who we are for over 60 years, since our founders were inspired to build a better place for their families. From health to sustainability, we’re committed to supporting the needs of people in the communities where we work and play.

Community spirit is our legacy.

Home Auto Life Investments Group Business Farm Travel

The Co-operators is a leading Canadian-owned multi-product insurance company.

How do make your programs and services both fun and safe? Recreation and Tourism Management Course at Saskatch-ewan Polytechnic helped a lot! It teaches you the skills and abilities to come into the industry with the confidence. You must also listen to what the people want.

What advice do you have for those wishing to pursue a career in parks and recreation?You’re never too old or too young to try something new and different. It’s a challenging yet exciting job with never a dull moment. You have the ability to work both inside and outside so you’re not just cooped up in an office all day. The people working in the industry are very helpful and supportive, which makes it feel like your a part of something bigger than just a Director of a small town.

SPRA is always willing to provide assistance and resources to those interested in entering the field of recreation, or wishing to progress their careers through professional development opportunites. Contact us today at 1-800-563-2555 and let us know how we can help!

DALMENY LIKES TO MOVE IT, MOVE IT!

SASKATCHEWAN PROVINCIAL PARKSLEARN TO CAMP

The Learn to Camp program introduce first time campers to the

skills and knowledge that they require, so that they can go out and camp in

our beautiful provincial parks.

This summer Saskatchewan Provincial Parks joined with Ontario Parks and sponsors Coleman, Canadian Tire, Off and Swish to run a new and exciting program called Learn to Camp. This program was designed to introduce first time campers to the skills and knowledge that they require, so that they can go out and camp in our beautiful provincial parks.This summer we offered three different ways for people to learn: an in-park overnight experience, presentations to com-munity groups and organizations and online at our website www.saskparks.net.

In the overnight experience, participants could choose either a one night or two night experience in one of three participating provincial parks. We supplied all the camping gear needed including the bug spray! Throughout the program, park staff delivered sessions such as: how to set up their campsite, cooking in the outdoors on a camp stove or BBQ, building a fire and more. There was also time for participants to enjoy some of the amazing services and facilities Saskatchewan Provincial Parks have to offer! These camps ran between June 27 and August 16, 2015, and had many families discov-ery the joy of camping.

During the community presentations, participants were pro-vided with the information needed to head out and explore Saskatchewan’s Provincial Parks. Participants became aware of the activities and amenities our parks have to offer, the gear needed to go camping and information about planning a camping trip.

We also partnered with Saskatoon’s Embrace Theaters on their traveling show, “Saskatchewan Outdoors”. They toured over 23 communities with this play about a family discovering the fun of connecting with nature. In many locations,

Saskatchewan Parks staff engaged with the public to promote the Learn to Camp program as well as encouraging families to go and enjoy our parks.

The Saskatchewan Parks website provides information about the Learn to Camp program, as well as, the individual parks listing of activities and events and the camping registration system.

This has been a successful program in giving people basic camping skills and confidence to venture on their own camp-ing trip. During the overnight camping experience, as well as, in the community presentations, people had the opportunity to ask questions, try new things and visit our parks. Our partici-pants had a wide variety of backgrounds including: people who needed to dust off their camping skills from childhood, to others who had never camped and some who had only lived in Saskatchewan a few months and wanted to learn about the Canadian camping experience. Participants found it very helpful to talk about some of the gear needed, what to look for in options and ideas of the types of experiences available in the provincial parks before they went camping on their own.We look forward to continuing the partnership with Ontario Parks and our sponsors, to offer this program again next year.

If you would like more information, visit our website at www.saskparks.net. Or contact us by email at learntocamp@gov.sk.ca.

Janette Hamilton Manager of Visitor Experiences Parks Divison - Saskatchewan Parks, Culture and Sport

08 September 2015

DALMENY LIKES TO MOVE IT, MOVE IT!

September 2015 09

“Play is really the work of childhood.”- Fred (Mister) Rogers

This quote epitomizes the day in the life of a child. A child’s schedule includes a range of opportuni-ties to participate in quality play: during the school day, in those critical after-school hours and when they are at home with their parents, siblings and friends. As adults, there are many contributing factors that impact the intrinsic value we receive from our jobs and the desire to continue down our career paths. This is no different for children. Positive experiences during play have a profound influence on each and every child – the better the experi-ence, the more likely they are to continue to play each day. As recreation providers, we need to ensure that a child’s work is fulfilling when they are in our care.

Exploring deeper into that concept, consider that when of-fering play (work) opportunities, Recreation Providers act as the Managers and the children as Employees. So how do we make the work rewarding and successful for our em-ployees so that they continue to grow, develop in and enjoy their jobs? Through utilizing the HIGH FIVE® Principles, recreation providers (Managers) can do just that. The HIGH FIVE® Principles focus on quality programming and ensuring that positive experiences for children are provided through recreation, sport and cultural activities.

Principle #1: A Caring AdultAKA - The Manager The relationship between a Manager and an Employee is often the most critical factor contributing to the success of the Employee. A quality Manager is a role model and a men-tor who leaves a lasting impact. By doing simple things like knowing their employees names, listening and understanding their employees opinions, being available to hear problems or to give advice, the Manager turns into the Caring Adult that the child needs to feel welcomed into that play program.

Principle #2: FriendsAKA - The Co-WorkersWho doesn’t enjoy a work environment where peers are having fun, collaborating and motivating each other? Positive friendships in the workplace increase productivity, coop-eration and problem solving, and allow for the diverse and unique qualities of each person to impact the end goal. These competencies are built and improved upon as children make friends on the playground and are necessary to build a positive work environment.

THE BUSINESS OF PLAYPrinciple #3: PlayAKA - The WorkFor work to be successful for any Employee, it has to be al-lowed to be spontaneous, exploratory and flexible. It should build upon the physical, cognitive and emotional health of the individual. Work is not enjoyable if the Employee is unable to utilize their creativity and freedom. When the opportunity for play is provided to an Employee, you provide the perfect me-dium for growth to learn skills on their own or from their peers.

Principle #4: MasteryAKA - Skill DevelopmentEveryone has specific skills in which they triumph and others that require improvements. Managers must be aware of these successes and challenges, and support their Employees in mastering as many aspects of the job as possible. For chil-dren these skills may include social interaction, physical lit-eracy, creative arts, etc. Managers must be able to challenge their Employees to a point where they are experiencing suc-cess and achievement in an encouraging way. For children, learning to do by doing while setting goals to achieve personal bests is an effective way to master a variety of skills.

Principle #5: ParticipationAKA - EngagementEmployees thrive when they feel free to share their views and ideas and are involved in the planning and implementation of their work. Undoubtedly, this engages them to participate at a higher level. An exceptional Manager plans the work to indi-vidually involve all participants, may that be through schedul-ing, equipment needs, providing choices and respecting each child’s views and ideas.

QUEST 2AKA - Performance ReviewsPerformance Reviews identify strengths and areas of improve-ment of the Employee, and outline the steps that are required to improve upon the deficits. Children’s recreation programs also need to be evaluated and monitored to ensure that quality play programming is being offered. The HIGH FIVE® QUEST 2 evaluation process can provide this feedback on any children’s program. It is a holistic process, which reviews the leaders, the participants and the supports that are offered by the organization.

Our jobs are important to us – and we are more likely to stay at our jobs if we have excellent experiences each day. A child’s job is to have fun and play so as the Manager of Fun, you have the best job in the world – make each day great for your employees!

For more information on HIGH FIVE®, visit www.spra.sk.ca/highfive.

Karen ThompsonSPRA Consultant - Leadership and Evaluation

Educate, Engage, Empower, EvaluateHEALTHY WORKPLACE® ESSENTIALSEmployee fitness. Active living in the workplace. Corporate health promotion. Workplace Wellness. Employee well-being. Stress management. Work-life balance.

All these terms describe what organizations have attempted in Canada and around the world in a concerted drive to im-prove worker health and productivity, and therefore organiza-tional performance. But why?

Poor health status and lack of strategic action continue to generate high costs for employers, in terms of lost productiv-ity, absenteeism, and employee benefit and insurance plans. In addition to cost savings, organizations with employee well-ness programs are also more attractive when recruiting and retaining talent. Simply put, a healthier workforce is a more productive, engaged, and less costly workforce.

There is a heightened awareness amongst employers and employees that failing to safeguard both physical and psychological health and safety in the workplace is resulting in unacceptably high rates of long- and short-term disability, and unacceptably high costs on a personal, organizational and societal basis.

Canada’s Healthy Workplace Month® offers employers an opportune time to introduce or strengthen a commitment to workplace health. Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, Canada’s Healthy Workplace Month® is a free web-based resource for organizations to find ideas and solutions to sup-port physically and psychologically healthy and safe work-places.

The theme this year focuses on Healthy Workplace® Es-sentials, a step-by-step approach to Educate, Engage, and Empower your employees and to Evaluate improvement in your workplace. This year, join the thousands of repeat visi-tors who will discover new tools, templates, tips and healthy

activities to eliminate guesswork. Creative solutions and ef-fective practices are also shared by many organizations in the site’s SHOWCASE section.

Although October is designated as its official awareness month, the Canada’s Healthy Workplace Month® website is intended to be used as a resource for organizations of all sec-tors and sizes throughout the year.

Working towards a ‘Healthy Workplace’ cannot be a one-time event, nor should it be consigned to one division of the organi-zation. Rather, in order to achieve and sustain organizational health, the importance of employee health in the broadest sense must be seen as part of the very fabric and culture of the organization.

To celebrate the 15th Anniversary of Canada’s Healthy Workplace Month®, and in order to provide a straightforward solution to getting started in any size organization, Canada’s Healthy Workplace Month® offers a comprehensive Healthy Workplace® Essentials guide and resources. The program includes a set of 10 requirements that can be accomplished effectively in less than a year and that lay the foundation for continual improvement.

10 September 2015

For more information visit, www.spra.sk.ca/lendingkits.

The ongoing purpose of Canada’s Healthy Workplace Month® is to:■ Raise awareness and importance of workplace wellness■ Engage and empower employees to become Healthy Workplace Champions■ Be a resource for administrators to find and share initiatives■ Celebrate successes

Canada’s Healthy Workplace Month® website (www.healthy-workplacemonth.ca) is accessible year round to provide healthy workplace tools, resources and best practice ex-amples that help organizations create healthy workplaces with benefits for employees and themselves.

As competition for market share and for talent increases in Canada, the organizations that plan to still exist 5 or 10 years hence are driven to ensure that health is a strategic focus among their tactics to survive. Excellence Canada gratefully acknowledges the generos-ity and support of Great-West Life, presenting sponsor of Canada’s Healthy Workplace Month® 2015.

“Businesses are seeing that employees want to participate in, and take charge of, their well-being in the workplace,” says Cathy Weaver, Vice-President, Human Resources, Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life. “We’re excited to support these com-prehensive resources for both employers and em-ployees to create and sustain healthy workplaces.”

Excellence Canada is an independent, not-for-profit corpora-tion that is committed to advancing organizational excellence across Canada. Since 1992, Excellence Canada has helped thousands of organizations become cultures of continuous quality improvement and world-class role models, through its four-level certification methodology including the Excellence, Innovation and Wellness® Standard, Healthy Workplace® Standard and Mental Health at Work® Program.

Karen Jackson, Senior Advisor Healthy Workplace Strategies Excellence Canada 1(800) 263-9648 ext 250karen@excellence.ca

September 2015 11

EVENTS Arena Operator Level 1 (two dates and location options)September 24 - 25, 2015 (Assiniboia)September 28 - 29, 2015 (North Battleford)Visit www.spra.sk.ca/programs-services/facilities/courses for details.

Arena Operator Level 2September 28 - October 2, 2015 (Kindersley)Visit www.spra.sk.ca/programs-services/facilities/courses for details.

HIGH FIVE Principles of Healthy Child Development and Quest 2 October 17 - 18, 2015 (Regina, SK)Visit www.highfive.org for workshop descriptions.

SPRA ConferenceOctober 22 - 24, 2015 (Yorkton, SK)“Having Fun is Still Serious Business!” The 2015 SPRA Conference will bring together Recreation Practitioners, Parks and Facility Operators and Volunteers from across the Province for the opportunity to network and learn the latest information and trends in the parks and recreation field. Visit, www.spra.sk.ca/conference.

SaskFitNovember 6 - 8, 2015 (Regina, SK)Join fellow fitness enthusiasts at Saskatchewan’s premier fitness and health conference for an outstanding weekend of workshops, lectures and special events to inspire, edu-cate and motivate! Visit, www.spra.sk.ca/saskfit.

HIGH FIVE Principles of Healthy Child Development and Quest 2 November 7 - 8, 2015 (Saskatoon, SK)Visit www.highfive.org for workshop descriptions.

For information on upcoming events, visit www.spra.sk.ca/events.

SPRA CONFERENCE 2015

HAVING FUN IS STILL SERIOUS BUSINESSAfter hosting fun, informative and memorable Conferences in both 1989 and 2005, the City of Yorkton is once again taking the reigns for the 2015 SPRA Conference. So don’t forget to mark the dates on your calendar, October 22-24, 2015.

Although the fashions have changed over the years, the theme of our conference has not! “Having FUN is Serious Business” was the theme of the 1989 SPRA Conference and we believe that “Having FUN is STILL Serious Business” in 2015!

What Can You Expect in 2015? The 2015 Conference will provide you with the tools, skills and abilities to provide safe, quality recreation and parks programs and services while still maintaining the fun!

■ National Caliber Keynotes Drew Dudley will help us understand leadership in a more nuanced, practical and entirely hopeful way. As the founder and director of one of the largest leadership development programs in North America, he embraces the idea that lead-ership can’t really be taught, only learned.

Dr. Jacquelyn Oncescu will reconnect us to leisure! This keynote will explore some fundamental principles that influ-ence individuals’ leisure choices, but also reasons why recre-ation professionals may want to think about themselves not only as leisure providers but also as leisure educators.

■ Local presenters addressing topics that matter most to Saskatchewan communities ■ Connecting with colleagues and experts from the field ■ Entertaining social events

So as we prepare for the fun that awaits us this October 2015, I think its important to “Look to the Future Through the Rearview Mirror” - the theme of the 2005 Conference and see how the recreation sector had fun and serious business in 1989 and 2005 (Warning: graphic and colourful photos ahead).

Yorkton 1989

The 1989 SPRA Award Banquet. Does anyone look familiar?

RecFest complete with limbo and some colourful shorts!

SPRA President, Murray Hidelbaugh, presenting awards at the 1989 Awards

Banquet.

12 September 2015

Yorkton 2005

The SPRA Staff Being Their Own Action Heroes

Conference Delegates learning the latest information and trends in the parks and recreation field!

RecFest was themed, “Hometown Heroes” -

delegates were encour-aged to throw on a jersery,

unifrom or costume to show who they admire from their community or

province.

These ladies appear to be fond of sharks? Fill me in at the 2015 Conference!

Yorkton 2015

The 2015 Conference Committee

Now you have seen the past, lets talk about getting you into the picture for the future! The complete Conference Brochure can be found at www.spra.sk.ca/conference.

There are two options to register:■ Online by visiting www.spra.sk.ca/conference ■ By completing the Registration Form (also available at www.spra.sk.ca/conference) and returning it to SPRA: 100-1445 Park Street Regina, SK S4N 4C5 Don’t forget to include your cheque, made payable to SPRA.

The Registration Deadline is September 30, 2015.

Until we meet again in Yorkton...

Lori RossSPRA Consultant, Communications

September 2015 13

This could be you? Have you registered?

14 September 2015

 

 

A great project needs a great team and every team needs the right 

players. Our team of professionals have years of experience and 

knowledge to ensure your project is enjoyable, easy and seamless. 

Saskatchewan Sales ManagerSteve Van Meer 306‐716‐6654 

steveparknplay@shawbiz.ca  

www.parknplaydesign.com 

YOUR PLAYGROUND PROJECT SHOULD BE FUN!

…make your playground

dream a reality…

The Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA) established an Advisory Committee to provide direction for the creation of a Provincial Recreation Board Development Manual. Shelley Thoen-Chaykoski was con-tracted to conduct research related to Recreation Board Development and create said manual.

SPRA, in partnership with the Sport, Culture and Recreation Districts, have been working on the planning and implemen-tation of an initiative that deals specifically with how recre-ation services are organized and delivered in communities. Staff from both organizations, have attended two training sessions to learn more about the Recreation Board Develop-ment process and how they can assist communities. This initiative does not intend to discourage or disrupt the good work and contributions that volunteers make, but merely pro-vide a guideline to assist communities and their volunteers in

RECREATION BOARD DEVELOPMENT

organizing service delivery to best manage and protect the resources within.

SPRA Field Consultants and Sport, Culture and Recreation District staff have been working with a few select communi-ties as they navigate through re-establishing their Recreation Boards. Selected communities include Cumberland House, Springside, Grenfell, Mankota, Lashburn and Naicam. This process will be completed by December 31, 2015, and at that time, will be evaluated and modified as required. Once the evaluations have been completed and the changes made, more communities will be able to take advantage of the re-sources, both printed and human, that have been developed to assist Recreation Board Development.

Clint McConnellSPRA Field Consultant

Authorized Playworld Systems Representative:

Manufactured by:

1-866-757-5502 Toll Free1-306-359-1457 Fax

www.playgroundpro.ca

September 2015 15

+ 1 ( 3 0 6 ) 2 2 1 . 0 5 5 7 │ r e g . d y n a m i c @ s a s k t e l . n e t3 5 0 W h i t e w o o d R o a d │ S a s k a t o o n S K │ S 7 J 4 L 8

Make Waterplay products part of your project. Call today!

DYNAMIC CONSTRUCTION LTD.w w w. d y n a m i c c o n s t r u c t i o n l t d . c o m

Featured pro duc t by :

safe

. du

rab

le. f

un

.

16 September 2015

To get started, call your Blue Imp play consultant at 1-877-594-0541 or visit www.blueimp.com

Rustic, realistic and rugged…bring nature-inspired fun to your next playground project with our Rootz Series.

bring natural elements to your playscapes

Made in Canada

www.musco.com

Brad Harrison866/695-8162 (toll-free)

403/478-0531 (mobile)brad.harrison@musco.com

For details contact:

Seaman Stadium · Okotoks, AB, Canada

Unequaled performance . . . for your budget, for the environment.

©2010 Musco Sports Lighting, LLC · CAAD10-2

PERFECT FOR25M POOLS!

Create an infinite number of combinations.

5500, Fullum, #100, Montreal (QC) H2G 2H3 T: 514 948-4878 or 1 800 935-4878

www.aquam.com

September 2015 17

We offer a complete line of commercial playgrounds, outdoor fitness stations, & park amenities

for any public or commercial spaces

Contact us for a quote & get started today.

1-306-978-1999

Let Flaman Fitness help you design your new, custom play space.

www.FlamanFitness.com

18 September 2015

Proudly servingCanada and the world’s

recreational facility needs!

Proudly servingCanada and the world’s

recreational facility needs!

CALL 1-866-654-7465www.omnisport.ca

BUILDINGTHE BESTFIXING THE REST

A R E N A S GYMNASIUMS

MULTI-PURPOSEFACILITIES

OUTDOORRECREATION FACILITIES

A R E N A S GYMNASIUMS

MULTI-PURPOSEFACILITIES

OUTDOORRECREATION FACILITIES

Go Outside and Play Naturally™

800.889.4305 • 204.632.7000info@pru.ca • www.pru.ca

September 2015 19

Service and installation of Artificial Ice Plants for Arena and Curling Rinks

2917B Miners Ave #5 1731 Ross Ave E Saskatoon, SK S7K 4Z6 Regina, SK S4N 7K2

(306)664-4400 (306) 585-7044 1-866-664-4400

www.stevensonindustrial.com

Serving Saskatchewan for 40 Years Ron Seibel – Commercial Manager

Ph. (306)525-0508 Fax (306)757-5918 Toll-free in SK 1-800-668-7668

E-mail: paradise5@accesscomm.ca ParadiseLeisureScapes.com

With over 4,500 ice surfaces installed around the world,CIMCO Refrigeration can provide a range ofexpertise unmatched by any other company.

For design, installation and service of new or existingrefrigeration systems, you can rely on CIMCO.

Call us today to learn more about our newest,most energy-efficient system…

Saskatoon 306-933-0566

www.cimcorefrigeration.com

Cimco-Expect

thebest

 

Contact  Us  Today!    

info@1stopplay.ca  www.1stopplay.ca  

888-­360-­1110  Humboldt,  SK      S0K  2A0  

 PLAYGROUNDS  �  FURNISHINGS  �  SPRAY  PARKS  �  SURFACING  

Authorized  Dealer  For:  

Serving Saskatchewan!

20 September 2015

ICE RESURFACERS

Proud Exclusive Dealer for Saskatchewan & Manitoba

Celebrating over 45 years ofservice to the recreation industry

New and extensively reconditionedunits available (with warranty)

Ask about our offseasonreconditioning program!

153 - 5th Avenue East

Regina, SK S4N 0A8

Sask. (306) 569-9041

Fax: (306) 757-4254

Man: (204) 253-2473

September 2015 21