2014 North Carolina Recreation & Park Conference 9.21.14 - 9.23.14 | Wilmington, NC

2014 Conference at a glance Sunday September 21st 11:00am-3:30pm 11:00am-12:45pm 1:00pm-2:15pm 2:30pm-3:45pm 4:00pm-5:30pm 5:30pm-8:30pm

Registration NCRPA Board Meeting Education Session Block 1 Education Session Block 2 Opening Session Backyard Bash @Convention Center

Monday September 22nd 7:00am-7:45am 7:30am-3:30pm 8:30am-9:45am 10:00am-11:15am 11:30am-1:15pm 1:30pm-2:45pm 3:00pm-4:15pm 4:30pm-6:30pm 6:30pm– 8:00pm 8:00pm–10:00pm

Wellness Wake-up Registration (closed for Awards Lunch) Education Session Block 3 Education Session Block 4 Awards Luncheon Education Session Block 5 Education Session Block 6 Exhibit Hall Opening & Social Dinner on your own Downtown Scavenger Hunt Start @ Riverfront Park

Tuesday September 23rd 7:00am-7:45am 7:30am-3:30pm 8:30am-9:45am 9:15am-2:00pm 9:45am-10:30am 10:30am-11:45am 11:45am-1:15pm 1:45pm-3:00pm 3:15pm-4:30pm 5:30pm

Wellness Wake-up Registration Education Session Block 7 Exhibit Hall Open Exhibit Hall Break Education Session Block 8 Lunch on your own Education Session Block 9 Closing Keynote Session Explore The Beach Shuttle pick up @ Hilton

Wednesday September 24th 9:00am-10:30am

NCRPA 2015 Board Meeting 2

Table of Contents CONFERENCE AT A GLANCE WELCOME KEYNOTE SPEAKERS SOCIAL EVENTS GENERAL INFORMATION CONFERENCE COMMITTEE SUN ED SESSIONS MON ED SESSIONS TUE ED SESSIONS OFFSITE INSTITUTES SPONSORS

2 3 4 5 6-7 8 9-11 12-18 18-22 23 23

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KEYNOTE SPEAKERS Chad Porter

Conference General Information

our opening keynote speaker is one of the nation's most inspirational and motivational speakers. He comes highly recommended by Corporate CEO's, Fundraising Executives, MLB, NFL and college athletes and coaches. He has been telling his amazing story of overcoming obstacles, perseverance, dealing with life's challenges, creating a better community, team building, building self esteem and accomplishing your goals. He has been firing up crowds for over 20 years and has been extremely fortunate to be blessed with the ability to not only survive and overcome this journey but to be able to share it with incredible passion, humor and honesty that you will never forget. You will NEVER forget this experience and Chad has proven over the years to leave lasting impressions on everyone he has met and who have heard his story. He is a father, a husband, a business owner and an inspiration. His message spans all ages, lifestyle and interests.

Nicole Greer

, PPCC, our closing keynote speaker is a trainer, facilitator, and coach on a mission to energize, impact, and influence individuals and organizations to lead vibrantly through engaging the possibilities. She coaches individuals and teams in corporate and non-profit settings by helping them clearly define their mission and vision, set goals, work to develop habits that will lead to exemplary leadership, and understand, motivate and encourage team members for the purpose of enhancing organizational performance and personal fulfillment. Whether she is coaching one on one or in a team environment, Nicole’s purpose is to facilitate movement… significant movement. She holds her partners, which range from teens to retiring Baby Boomers in high esteem and strongly encourages commitment from them as she makes them ask themselves hard questions that inevitably lead to growth. For the past 20 years Nicole has worked as a Coach, Marketing Director, Master of First Impressions, and Sales Trainer in a wide variety of industries.

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CONFERENCE SOCIALS SUNDAY 5:30PM | BACKYARD BASH | Wilmington Waterfront Enjoy the opening evening of the 2014 North Carolina Recreation and Park Association Conference with a memorable evening on the back lawn of the Convention Center. Join us for a distinctive coastal dining experience featuring seafood, grilled chicken and other southern specialties. Enjoy live musical entertainment and a variety of “backyard” games including cornhole!

Historic Downton Wilmington is known for a wide array of outstanding restaurants and eateries. Feast on down-home classics such as fried shrimp or pulled pork. Dine outdoors and indulge in excellent seafood creations at a popular riverfront or Front Street spot. Don’t forget the “Scavenger Hunt” starts at 8pm!

MONDAY 8PM | Scavenger Hunt | Historic Downtown Wilmington After having dinner on your own, join us in Historic Downtown Wilmington for a Scavenger Hunt. Participants will seek out clues at some of Wilmington’s most popular locations. Solve the most clues correctly for a chance to win a prize basket courtesy of the Wilmington Convention & Visitors Bureau. The Scavenger Hunt kicks off at Riverfront Park, the perfect place for a view of Wilmington and the waterfront! The park is located at 5 N Water St, look for the volunteers to get your questions!

TUESDAY 5:30pm | EXPLORE THE BEACH| Wrightsville Beach A trolley will be available to take conference attendees to Wrightsville Beach restaurants. Several restaurants will be offering specials to conference attendees, be sure to show your conference badge to receive the discount. Restaurants include: The Oceanic, Blue Water Grill, The Bridge Tender Restaurant and The Fish House Grill. The trolley will start pickups at 5:30pm at the Hilton and the last trolley leaves the beach at 9:15pm. Below are a few cab companies in case you miss the last trip! Carolina Yellow Cab: 910.762.4464 Port City Cab: 910.762.1165 Beach Buggy: 910-792-0232 5

Conference Information ConferenceGeneral General Information

MONDAY 6:30PM | DINNER DOWNTOWN | Historic Downtown Wilmington

GENERAL INFORMATION FOLLOW US Get social at the 2014 Conference by following @NCRPA for updates, pictures and buzz. Don’t forget to use #NCParksCon and #NCRecre8 to tag any relevant Tweets, Instagram or Facebook posts during your time at the conference. Remember Twitter is public. Unlike a Facebook update, a Twitter post can be read by anyone. Be mindful of this concerning pictures, language, or subject matter. As almost all conference attendees are professionals and representatives of various organizations around the state, please be sure to ask permission before posting pictures to any social media.

Information Conference Information General Information ConferenceGeneral General Conference

facebook.com/NCRPA

twitter.com/NCRPA

instagram.com/NCRPA

GO DIGITAL ! | Conference and Wilmington Information Conference Mobile Site: Stay up to date and access vital conference information with the 2014 conference mobile page. Use the QR code to access this mobile web site, which is compatible with Android, Apple and Windows mobile devices. www.ncrpa.net/conferenceapp

STUDENTS AND YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Workshops: Workshops are great opportunities to learn about current practices and trends in the field, and also network with professionals and other students. Student delegates may attend any conference workshop or session, but we recommend those marked in the educational sessions section with

CONVENTION CENTER MAP

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GENERAL INFORMATION ACCESSIBILITY Parking: The Wilmington Convention Center (WCC) Parking Deck offers convenience to WCC guests attending events as well as area visitors. The Deck features up to 578 spaces and is ADA compliant. WCC Parking Deck address: 515 Nutt St., Wilmington, NC 28405. www.businessmadecasual.com/attend/parking Restrooms: All restrooms at the Convention Center are accessible. Meeting Rooms: All meeting rooms at the Convention Center are accessible.

ADMISSION Admission to the exhibit hall and all conference sessions and workshops requires a name badge for the duration of the conference. Entrances of the exhibit hall and conference sessions will be monitored for name badges. Individuals without a name badge will be required to register at Conference Registration.

A limited number of tickets to conference functions are available for purchase at the Registration Desk. If you will not be using the meal/social tickets included with your registration, please notify staff at the Registration Desk so they may be added to the supply of extra tickets.

CONTINUING EDUCATION UNITS (CEU) CREDITS Registration includes the option to earn CEUs for educational sessions. CEU forms are available at the Information Desk. They will be validated by the room host for each session. Turn in the white portion of the CEU form at the Information Desk before leaving the conference. CEUs for Offsite Institutes will be validated at the end of each institute.

EXHIBIT HALL Be sure to visit the Conference Exhibit Hall located in The Wilmington Convention Center. Delegates can access the exhibit hall via the Marina Concourse of the Convention Center. Over 60 companies will showcase their products and services in the park and recreation industry.

Exhibit Hall Hours: Mon, September 22nd 4:30pm - 6:30pm and Tues, September 23rd 9:15am - 2:00pm

REGISTRATION AND INFORMATION Conference Registration and Information Desks are located at the WCC info desk located on the river concourse. This is the place for up-to-date information about all conference activities, events and Downtown Wilmington information. Delegates will receive a name badge, meal/social tickets and conference information. Limited spaces may be available for offsite institutes and socials.

REGISTRATION & INFORMATION DESK HOURS: Sunday, September 21st 11:00am - 3:30pm Monday, September 22nd and Tuesday, September 23rd 7:30 am - 3:30pm ( Closed during awards lunch)

WELLNESS WAKEUPS Join us for wellness wakeups on Monday 9/22 (yoga) and Tuesday 9/23 (body sculpting) at 7am. Meet in the lower lobby of the Hilton Riverside. Note: Participants should wear aerobic attire and bring a water to the class. 7

Conference General Information

MEAL/SOCIAL TICKETS

CONFERENCE COMMITTEE 2014 CONFERENCE COMMITTEE MEMBERS 2014 Conference Chair: Travis Adams Ceremonies, Banquets & Awards: Chair: Tara Duckworth Karen Ivey Colleen Farrell

Information Conference Information General Information ConferenceGeneral General Conference

Entertainment: Chair: Amy Beatty RT Jones Tammy Skinner Dave Pugh

Exhibits and Sponsorships: Chair: Katie Ryan Dee Turner Kristie Grubb Evan Morigerato

Education, Students Young Professionals: Chair: Jim Herstine

Marketing: Chair: Marian Doherty

Scott Barnard Aaron Davis Alexia Franzidis Stephanie Frisbee Jenni Harris Nancy Gladwell Keith Jenkins Briana Laneuville Alex Langley Nasha McCray Jeff Nix Kim Oberle Billy Roach Nikki Speer-Raleigh Laura Spivey Terri Stowers

Registration/Information: Co-Chair: Neil Brooks Co-Chair: Amy Ryan

Melinda Johnson

Latasha Singletary Andy Fairbanks

Staff/Hospitality: Co-Chair: Eric Jelinski Co-Chair: Nikki Keely Helen Dowd Tim Murphy Samantha Robinson NCRPA Michelle Wells Matt Carusona Wanda Parmlee Colleen Dougherty

Alumni Events and Socials ECU Recreation & Leisure Studies Alumni & Friends Social Monday 9/22 6:30-8:30pm | Paddy's Hollow in Downtown Wilmington African American Pioneers in NC Parks Recreation Recognition Dinner Cruise Sunday 9/21 5:30-7:30pm |Henrietta III Cruise Boat | Advance tickets required NCSU PRTM Alumni and Friends Luncheon Tuesday 9/23 11:45am – 1:15pm |Wilmington Convention Center | Advance tickets required Sponsored by the NC State Natural Resources Foundation UNC-G Community and Therapeutic Recreation Alumni & Friends Luncheon Tuesday 9/23 11:45am - 1:15pm | The George on the Riverwalk | Advance RSVP required 8

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 -- 1:00PM - 2:15PM EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS #Hashtags to Handbills: Engaging your community through digital media (social media) Matt Carusona, NCRPA; Cara McLeod, Raleigh Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources and Kendrick Mayes, Garner Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Room: D CEUs: 0.1 Session: 101 Both traditional and digital (social media) media are vital to any agency’s communication plan. As digital media continues to grow it has been embraced and utilized by agencies big and small! Now digital media has begun to replace traditional mediums such as direct mail, handbills and newsletters. This session will focus mainly on social media best practices, implementation and ways to incorporate traditional media. We will address the basics and review with participant’s examples of successful implementation here in NC and around the country. This will be an interactive session and participants are encouraged to bring, smartphones and tablets.

Putting Yourself Out There: How to Represent Yourself Well Annette Moore, Kelly Cravener & Allison Smith; NC State University Room: 106 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 102

Collaboration on Projects Pam Robbins, Greensboro Parks & Recreation and Lee Hunt, Greensboro Police Department Room: F CEUs: 0.1 Session: 103 Looking at ways to encourage collaboration in governmental agencies for programs and projects to come to fruition? We will look at ideas to get the process started and move into some project ideas and who the stakeholders are. What incentives would there be for this type of program?

Join us for a distinctive coastal dining experience featuring seafood, grilled chicken and other southern specialties. Enjoy live musical entertainment and a variety of “backyard” games including cornhole ! 9

Educational Sessions

Want to have a killer resume? Looking for ideas on how to find employment opportunities? Need tips on how to interact with professionals, both in person and online? Join us for answers to these questions and many more, all focused on helping you prepare yourself for job interviews and face-to-face and virtual networking opportunities. Bring a copy of your resume and your smart devise. We’ll share ideas and give you a chance to apply concepts for yourself!

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 -- 1:00PM - 2:15PM EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS Establishing a New Department; First Year Directors Brittany Shipp, Swansboro Parks & Recreation; Niel Brooks, Leland Parks & Recreation and Paul Horne, Town of Pittsboro Room: E CEUs: 0.1 Session: 104 An opportunity for newly appointed supervisors and parks and recreation directors to hear experiences from various directors that established departments from the ground up. In this session we will discuss the importance of creating buy in with boards/councils, the public and other departments. The opportunities available to assist with the little to no staffing options during the early creation of the department will be addressed as well. Grant opportunities, service promotion, new facility planning, and limiting duplication of services will also be discussed. Participants will learn how to show return on investment when a municipality invests in Parks and Recreation.

Educational Sessions

Aquatic Operation @ the Speed of Light Bob Bradley, ACES – Retired & Chris Bennett, City Reporter Room: 107 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 105 In recent years everybody has gone digital & virtual, but what about our Aquatic Facilities? Some of the latest technologies are now coming to an aquatic facility near you, maybe yours!! These options can give you more time and less work: From Programming and Scheduling to Maintenance, Environmental Control and Human Experience. You can make it run better & communicate with you. Take your facilities to the “Cloud”. Apps, software & equipment that will make your job easier and give your patrons a better experience! Come face to face with the virtual pool of “Now”, not the future.

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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 -- 2:30PM - 3:45PM

EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS Invaders of the Lost Park! Gary Marshall, Mecklenburg County Park & Recreation Room: D CEUs: 0.1

Session: 201

Many of the common landscape plants we use were brought to the United States from other countries. Over the years, we have become accustomed to having them around. When we examine natural areas, buffers and forests, we find that many invasive plants are there competing against the native species. We will discuss these problems, explore some of the offending invaders and cover control methods. Knowledge and communication is key to getting invasive species under control.

Fun Games To Use In Your Youth Programs Joseph Voska, Toni Webb & Beth Soles; Raleigh Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Room: E CEUs: 0.1 Session: 202

Building Healthy Families through Recreation Annette Moore, Nury Castro & Casey Kenner; NC State University Room: 106 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 203 We’ll start this session with an overview of couple and family literature. Then we’ll get hands on with ways to strengthen couples and families through recreation. Expect to leave this session with ideas you can use at your agency - and in your own personal relationships!

A new management approach in park & recreation: Appreciative Inquiry Cynthia Castle & Peggy Harris, UNC-Greensboro Room: 105 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 204 Presentation on the appreciative inquiry approach for management. Includes an in-depth look at the 4-D process and a comparison to traditional problem solving. The session will also include group discussion and interactive activities.

Future Athletes: Athletics for 3-5 year olds Leah Friend & Danielle Dobbs-Jackson, Winston-Salem Recreation & Parks Room: 107 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 205 Getting youth prepared to play sports. This session will teach facilitators to plan and implement youth athletic activities for 3-5 year olds focusing on sports skills instead of competition.

In Pursuit of Greatness Rob Smith, Garner Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Room: F CEUs: 0.1 Session: 206 Team members and leaders at all levels in a department will contribute and benefit from this active, hands-on session. We will use simple exercises to set the stage for discussions on how to create a culture that is willing to sacrifice good for the opportunity to be great. We will start with identifying the differences between good and great. While exploring the steps necessary to elevate personal and team performance, we will create an action plan to pursue greatness when you return to your department. 11

Educational Sessions Educational Sessions

Do you run summer camp, after school or other programs while kids are out of school? Then surely you play games with your program participants on a daily basis. This session will teach attendees new games they can incorporate in their programs and how to make modifications to any game based on several factors. Be ready to have fun while learning new games to take back to your programs.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 -- 8:30AM - 9:45AM

EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS When every dollar counts, maximizing turfgrass performance with compost Gary Gittere, McGill Environmental Systems Room: 106 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 301

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Unprecedented cuts in parks and recreation budgets have managers scrambling to meet aesthetic and performance expectations with fewer dollars, and they're finding amending their soils with premium compost a cost-effective investment. Compost offers faster green-up and seam-up, reduced irrigation needs, improved durability, reduced injury risk, slow-release nutrients for better nutrient uptake resulting in long-term economical & environmental benefits -- all in one sustainable product. This presentation will cover premium compost use for sports fields, including case studies and a discussion of economic and environmental benefits. The audience will learn how to select, specify and utilize compost to save money and boost performance.

Don't let nature scare you - Anyone can do nature programming Corey Sperling & Stephanie Frisbee, Mecklenburg County Park & Recreation Room: D CEUs: 0.1 Session: 302 You don't have to be an environmentalist to create nature programs. This session will give you everything you need to get outside and on your way to creating nature programs. We will share examples of nature programs including lesson plans and the supply list to easily replicate them at your own facility or park. You will get information on how to maximize the programming space you do and don't have. You will receive a list of basic resources that everyone must have to do successful nature programming. Come join us, and you will see that ANYONE can do nature programming.

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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 -- 8:30AM - 9:45AM

EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS KIDS IN PARKS - GETTING KIDS ACTIVE IN YOUR PARK Tony Geiger, Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation - Kids in Parks Room: 107 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 303 In the general population childhood obesity rates continue to rise, and visits to outdoor parks continue to decline. The Kids in Parks TRACK Trails program is a cost-effective intervention to address these issues. Kids in Parks encourages active family engagement, increases trail use, introduces recreational opportunities available in parks and creates a network that offers a variety of experience. In 2011, Kids in Parks partnered with NCRPA to install 30 TRACK Trails in local parks around our state. During this session we will discuss the process for installing a TRACK Trail, and we will discuss some of the data collected through the program.

Focus on the 'Win-Win": Cultivating Unique Partnership Opportunities Jenny Caviness, Phil Fleischmann & Darryl Holsey , Greensboro Parks & Recreation Room: E CEUs: 0.1 Session: 304

Transforming Old Ideas into New Ideas John Sautter, Kim Oberle & Ryan Sailstad, Durham Parks & Recreation Room: F CEUs: 0.1 Session: 305 Stuck in a programming rut? Ever thought, "I wish I'd thought of that!"? As the saying goes, there's nothing new under the sun, so how do you come up with a truly "original" idea that best serves your community? In this interactive workshop, we'll discuss the factors that make a program "innovative", how to refine your staff's creative process and produce programming that grabs the attention of your audience.

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Educational Sessions Educational Sessions

Through focusing on agency strengths and building collaborative relationships across boundaries, new ideas for partnerships will flourish. Learn about Greensboro Parks and Recreation's new innovative partnerships including the NeighborWoods Right Plant Right Place program, the ResFit senior adult caregiver fitness and wellness program, and youth programming partnerships.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 -- 10:00AM - 11:15AM

EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS Engaging the Four Elements of Success: The Building Blocks of Creation...Earth, Water, Wind and Fire: Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach Room: D CEUs: 0.1 Session: 401 Using the highly visual and universally understood elements of Earth, Water, Wind, and Fire, the Elements tap into what people unconsciously know at some level, about themselves and others, and provides new layers of understanding about who they are and what makes them tick. The elements can be taught quickly, applied immediately, and become part of an organization’s culture within minutes. It is infectious and healing. Learn to quickly assess what motivates people to engage, listen, and “make it work.” Take away a powerful communication tool for “reading” people.

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Programming 101 Katie Robinson & Carla Hoover, Mecklenburg County Park & Recreation Room: 106 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 402 Do you ever wonder what needs to be done to put a successful program together? As park and recreation professionals we strive to craft well designed programs that match the interest/needs of the public and also stay within the mission of our departments. Join us as we take a closer look into how we really do what we do as programmers. During this session we will look at goals and objectives, milestones and measuring the success of our programs and how to put them into our programs.

Does Your Event Make Cent$: Determining the Economic Impact of Events and Tournaments Sarah Page, Sarah T. Page Consulting, LLC Room: 107 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 403 Most parks and recreation departments host events and tournaments, but few are able to quantify the value of these events on the local economy. An economic impact analysis can provide valuable data to prove return on investment to elected officials or to local stakeholders. But how do you get started? This session will cover three ways that parks and recreation departments can calculate the economic impact of their events and tournaments, and will provide specific steps on how to do them. A case study on the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation’s Youth Basketball Tournament will be presented to demonstrate the process and results.

So Do You Like Living in Your Parents' Basement? Jeff Nix & Laura Spivey, UNC-Wilmington Room: E CEUs: 0.1 Session: 404 This session is geared towards helping students make themselves more marketable in the increasingly competitive job market, and actually landing that first job. We will discuss career planning, actions to take while still in school, interviewing, internships, and resume development. You may hate us now, but will thank us later! 14

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 -- 10:00AM - 11:15AM

EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS #ParksandRecreation: a panel discussion on social media in the parks and recreation profession. Departments represented include: Wilmington, Raleigh, Elkin, Garner, and Mount Airy with additional speakers from NCRPA and SayitSocial. Room: F CEUs: 0.1 Session: 405

You’ve learned the basics but what’s next? Join various recreation professionals from around North Carolina as we discuss the state of social media in parks and recreation. Panelists will discuss what happened after they established their presence, how they manage information, how they interact with their communities, what challenges they have encountered and how they approach social media crisis management. Sitting on this panel with parks and recreation professionals will be Emily Trayers from SayItSocial- a leader in social business training programs, courses and e-Learning programs. This will be an interactive session and participants are encouraged to bring smartphones, tablets and laptops.

The ADA title II recreation inclusion mandate at section 35.130 is pervasive and applies to every North Carolina city, county, and special district. It changes the way programs are marketed, registered for, and planned. It certainly changes the way staff are assigned, and imposes some specific requirements regarding assessment and planning supports. This session will review the requirements, define the black-and-white issues, and explore the grey issues. We'll illustrate those with court and administrative decisions. We'll also talk smart practices that can keep a North Carolina agency on the right side of the ADA.

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Educational Sessions Educational Sessions

The ADA Recreation Inclusion Mandate: Requirements, Trends, Trials, and Tribulations John McGovern, Recreation Accessibility Consultants Room: 105 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 406

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 -- 1:30PM - 2:45PM

EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS Energy IS the Essence of Life: Energy Strategies, Systems and Smarts to Capture, Control, Claim and Create Your Most Vibrant Life: Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach Room: D CEUs: 0.1 Session: 501 It's time. Time to capture, control, claim and create spaces of energy to carry out your mission and vision in both your personal and your professional life. You can win the war with the clock by managing your energy. You can find energy to do the things you want. Energy is a limited resource. Period. You wake each day to the precious gift of life. Your effectiveness, contributions, and sense of purpose are all affected by your ability to be in sync with the five energies: intellectual, emotional, spiritual, physical and social.

Educational Sessions Sessions Educational Educational Sessions

Essential Do’s and Don’ts for Managing Planning Projects Jeff Bransford, PROS Consulting Room: 107 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 502 Our new economic reality underscores the need for strategic management planning. However, the very challenges that drive managers to develop strategic management plans can also critically threaten the planning process itself. Regardless of if you are developing a plan in-house or using a consultant, it’s important to get the “biggest bang for your buck” out of the planning process. Discover the best- and worst-practices of managing the development of a strategic plan, presented by a certified Project Management Professional with experience both as an agency employee and as a consultant.

Incorpating Drama Into Your Youth Program Joseph Voska, Toni Webb and Beth Soles, Raleigh Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Room: E CEUs: 0.1 Session: 503 Do you work with kids through programs in your department? If so, come learn about different ways you can incorporate drama into your programs? Anytime kids are in your program while they are out of school adding drama activities is a great way to engage participants. Be prepared to participate in activities and receive take aways that you can add in your programs.

Owner/Designer/Contractor Panel Discussion on the Artificial “REAL” Facts of Synthetic Turf: Andrew Pack & Stephen Lord, Woolpert; Preston Buckman, Mecklenburg County Park & Recreation & Joey Alexander, Sports Construction Management, Inc. Room: F CEUs: 0.1 Session: 504 Learn from a panel discussion from an owner, sports architect and from a turf contractor’s experience on the artificial “REAL” facts of synthetic turf. This panel will talk about the current trends, costs and lessons learned from recent projects and case studies in the Carolinas. Panel will also have an open dialogue with the audience on a question and answer session.

What every student should know before they start their internship Dr. Rob Stiefvater, NC Central University & Kim Oberle, Durham Parks & Recreation Room: 106 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 505 The internship in recreation is typically the capstone event in a student's coursework. What are the expectations of the internship from the agency's perspective? We will share what the agency is expecting and tips on how the student can get the most out of the internship experience and former students will share their experiences. 16

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 -- 1:30PM - 2:45PM

EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS The Alternatives to Parks and Recreation System Planning: Cassie Schumacher-Georgopoulos & Stephen C. Bentley , Raleigh Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources and Nick Kuhn, AECOM Room: 105 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 506 Prior parks and recreation comprehensive plans used traditional models for level of service. Recognizing the new direction that public agencies are moving in related to accountability, engagement, access and innovation, Raleigh decided to completely rewrite its “System Plan” by focusing on public engagement, strategic planning and new approaches to level of service. This session will focus on the new paradigm of an “experienced based system” and the value of having a Strategic Plan. Presenters will review Raleigh’s approach to public participation, discuss how the information translated from needs and priorities assessment results to the community’s vision and new Strategic Plan

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 -- 3:00PM - 4:15PM The true "value" of passive parks, nature preserves, open spaces and natural areas are all too often overlooked or easily dismissed. Hear about the findings of research conducted by Mecklenburg County to determine the true value of nature preserves, including economic impacts of nature-based tourism, increase property values, environmental benefits, and the social/health benefits associated with these types of facilities and programs. Combined, these benefits paint an unmistakable picture of the "true value" of preserving and programming these areas.

Empowering Marginalized Groups Through InFocus Advocacy Stuart J. Schleien & Kimberly D. Miller, UNC Greensboro and Lindsey Brake, Beyond Academics Room: 107 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 602 When individuals who are marginalized are welcomed and successfully accommodated in community recreation, everyone benefits. Such inclusive services can only be provided when recreation professionals gain a better understanding of the desires expressed by these individuals, as well as the barriers they encounter. InFocus is an advocacy strategy that empowers individuals of varying backgrounds and abilities to create more welcoming communities. Through photography and dialogue, participants share their “voices” to instigate positive community changes. Examples of how the InFocus process has been used to empower and support individuals in their quest to become socially included will be illustrated.

Strike a Pose: Become an InstaPro on Instagram Sarah Page, Sarah T. Page Consulting, LLC Room: D CEUs: 0.1

Session: 603

Are you ready for your close up? Is your parks and recreation department? This Instagram training will take you from “InstaSlow” to “InstaPro” in no time flat. Learn what it takes to market your programs and facilities on this popular and fast-growing social media channel. We’ll cover an overview of Instagram, tips on successfully promoting a brand, hands-on training on how to download and use the application, examples and best practices from other parks and recreation departments, and tips on Instagram photography. Be prepared to get up and move around, as this will be a highly interactive session. Bring your smart phone or tablet for this handson session. 17

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What is is Worth? The True Value of Open Space Michael Kirschman, Mecklenburg County Park & Recreation Room: 106 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 601

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 -- 3:00PM - 4:15PM

EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS Park Audit Tools: Measuring Park Amenities That Promote Physical Activity Candice Bruton, UNC-Greensboro Room: E CEUs: 0.1 Session: 604 Certain park features and conditions have been found to increase physical activity and decrease body mass index. Park audit tools objectively quantify park features, amenities, facilities, and conditions that can promote physical activity. Come be introduced to several available audit tools and see how collected information can be used to assess park systems and prioritize park improvements that may increase physical activity among park users.

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You want to become a recreation professional? Aaron Davis & Carlyn Sautter, Graham Recreation & Parks Room: 108 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 605 Students will learn many of the greatest experiences they can gain as a student and how to prepare for their future as a recreation professional. Come learn what this field is looking for in an applicant and what can set you apart from others. Attendees will have a chance to ask questions and set up times outside of this session to speak with a professional in the area of concentration they are interested in.

Building Bridges Through Movement Alexia Franzidis, UNC-Wilmington Room: F CEUs: 0.1

Session: 606

How do you create an energetic workplace? How do you break down barriers and niche groups? How do you improve employee productivity? How can we use recreation to make our jobs better? We will look at how recreation can be used in our workplace as a tool to boost morale, build relationships, and enhance skills. Through the incorporation of a physical activity exercise delegates will interact, move, and engage, leaving the session feeling energized and motivated.

Keeping Recreation in Soccer Auke Wiersma & Bill Furjanick, NC Youth Soccer Room: 105 CEUs: 0.1

Session: 607

What are the necessary ingredients to create an enjoyable opportunity for children to participate in recreation soccer? From the age appropriate activities to the game ending snack – presented by NC Youth Soccer Association.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 -- 8:30AM - 9:45AM Workplace Productivity: The "Happiness" Approach Laura Spivey, Cara Sidman & Michele D'Abundo; UNC-Wilmington Room: F CEUs: 0.1 Session: 701 Recreation professionals are in the business of providing opportunities for physical activity, fun, and well-being to their communities. Yet, often professionals stifle the idea of fun or happiness in office settings. Research shows happiness in the workplace can improve productivity; smart organizations encourage happiness at work as a means to improving the bottom line.

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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 -- 8:30AM - 9:45AM

EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS Fiscal Fitness for Park and Recreation Agencies Jeff Bransford, PROS Consulting Room: 106 CEUs: 0.1

Session: 702

Fiscal discipline, the appropriate allocation of resources, and effectiveness in service delivery are three major underpinnings to financial sustainability for park and recreation agencies. Learn how major obstacles facing the financially-minded manager can be overcome and discover a financial assessment tool to evaluate your agency's "fiscal fitness."

Pickleball for All - Part 1 Calvin Vaughn, High Point Parks & Recreation Room: D CEUs: 0.1

Session: 703

Mandated Access Audit: the Process in Asheville John McGovern, Recreation Accessibility Consultants LLC Room: 105 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 704 The ADA title II regulation requires an access audit of existing facilities and sites. It also requires an evaluation of existing policies and programs for compliance with title II. This session will explore the City of Asheville’s access audit process, how its sites were audited, what standards were used in the audit, what alternative audit processes exist and how you can use those, and the outcomes of the audit.

Developing an Internship Program Students Will Tweet About!: Rob Stiefvater, NC Central University and Stephanie West & Erik Rabinowitz, Appalachian State University Room: E CEUs: 0.1 Session: 705 I need someone to pick up coffee may not be the best use of an intern. This "how to" session will cover the roles and responsibilities of the university, the agency and the student. Learn how to design an internship program where everyone benefits. Specific topics will include developing an attractive package to recruit top quality students; deciding whether to pay or not to pay the intern; writing a job description; effective methods for advertising the position; how to recruit qualified interns when you can't afford to pay them; determining appropriate job responsibilities; selecting a professional mentor; and providing feedback through informal communication and formal evaluations.

Open Space Preservation: Protecting Land and Improving Communities Brendan Moore, Durham County Open Space Program Room: 107 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 706 What is "open space"? Is it urban or rural? Woods or farmland? Protection or parks? How can you start an open space program or improve the one you have? This session will explore strategies for preserving land for open space, maximizing local, state, and federal dollars, and how approaching open space preservation with regional interests in mind can lead to successful partnerships and facilities. We will discuss the importance of citizen engagement, support from elected officials, and how protecting and preserving your community's natural and historic sites will pay off in the future. 19

Educational Sessions Educational Sessions Educational Sessions

Pickleball was invented in 1965 and has evolved into a popular sport. The United States Pickleball Association (USPA.org) says it is the fastest growing sport in America. Pickleball facilities are in all 50 states, many in Parks and Recreation facilities. Older adults enjoy the social aspects and the ability to stay active while youth play it for fun and physical activity. The game is a combination of tennis, racquetball and ping pong. In this session, you will learn how to organize, fund, market; implement, and maintain a successful Pickleball Program.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 -- 10:30AM - 11:45AM

EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS Pickleball for All (Hands on learning and playing the game.) part 2 Calvin Vaughn, High Point Parks & Recreation Room: exhibit hall CEUs: 0.1 Session: 801 Pickleball is a paddle sport created for all ages and skill levels. The rules are simple and the game is easy for beginners to learn, but can develop into a quick, fast-paced, competitive game for experienced players. The fun sport combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. Pickleball is played both indoors or outdoors on a badminton-sized court and a slightly modified tennis net using a paddle and a plastic ball. This session is ‘hands-on’ learning and playing the game only.

Sessions Educational Educational Sessions

Grey Matter: Accessibility Puzzles and Perils in North Carolina John McGovern, Recreation Accessibility Consultants Room: 105 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 802 The US Department of Justice has issued several regulations and of course the 2010 Standards. But the Standards are not perfect, they don’t address every recreation environment, and in some that are addressed, the requirement is not adequate. The ADA title II regulation for North Carolina cities and counties is full of grey areas. Discover the areas of title II that (good news and bad news) leave a lot of discretion for you. This session will also discuss the 2010 Standards, how to improve them, and what to look for in rulemaking currently underway for trails, picnic areas, beaches, campsites, beaches, and more.

Are You Getting a Screening or Scamming? Chris Goodman, SSCI Room: D CEUs: 0.1

Session: 803

The irrefutable fact is that regardless of the price you pay there is no “perfect” background check system, however the great news is in 2006 the field of parks, recreation, and conservation established the industry standard for background checks. There is a certain level of knowledge required to ensure the agency is not being misled by less than honest background check vendors. Learn the right questions to ask to know if you are even close to meeting the expected standard for the industry.

Proactive Planning: Building our Recreation Future Jennifer Beedle & Pete Armstrong, Recreation Resources Service & John Poole, NC State Parks Room: E CEUs: 0.1 Session: 804 Planning is the cornerstone of quality recreation opportunities providing a tool to measure the impacts of service, and a roadmap to best serve our communities. In this audience-driven session, we'll provide an overview of the 2014 update to the Statewide Comprehensive Recreation Plan (SCORP) as well as some preliminary findings. We will engage participants in a discussion about the Municipal and County Parks and Recreation Services Study, and PRORAGIS, NRPA's benchmarking tool. Why are these resources important and how can they be most effectively used?

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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 -- 10:30AM - 11:45AM

EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS The Initiation Process: Planning for Sustainability, Innovation, and Programming Jake Eubank, UNC-Wilmington Room: F CEUs: 0.1 Session: 805 Opening a new aquatics facility requires a great deal of planning while considering purpose, space, technology, and convenience. By reviewing current and future aquatics industry trends regarding technology, innovative programming, risk management, and safety, this presentation explores the many aspects of planning for a new facility from the steps of knowledge, persuasion, decision, implementation, and confirmation.

Recreation Employment Corp: More than a teen employment program Terri Stowers & Heidi Kitterman, Mecklenburg County Park & Recreation Room: 106 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 806

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 -- 1:45PM - 3:00PM NCRPA Wellness Update Matt Carusona & Colleen Dougherty, NCRPA Room: E CEUs: 0.1

Session: 901

The NCRPA Wellness Initiative's mission is to empower parks and recreation agencies in North Carolina to create healthy communities through the development of programs, policies, and infrastructure that support healthy eating and physical activity. Join us as we review all the projects, grants and great things NCRPA members are doing to promote health and wellness in our state.

Site Selection: Things to Consider Prior to Land Acquisition Jeff Ashbaugh & Derek Williams, Site Solutions Room: D CEUs: 0.1 Session: 902 Park and Greenway Sites: This session will share information with participants to help them evaluate potential property for future park and greenway development.

I Am A Commodity Too! Cameron Fenderson, Raleigh Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Room: 106 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 903 Join the discussion on traditional and non-traditional employment opportunities within the parks and recreation profession, how to find your niche within those opportunities, and how to market yourself based on your skillset.

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Educational Sessions Educational Sessions Educational Sessions

The Recreation Employment Corp (REC) is designed to address critical employability issues with the youth in our community. This employment training program targets youth between the ages of 14-17 years and addresses issues such as dressing for success, time management, and the development of good customer service skills. Through field experience, workshops and positive role models, this program seeks to provide mentees with a realistic overview of the recreation field and its potential as a career. The goal of the program is to develop a bond between the staff mentors and the youth mentees that will lay the groundwork for a mutually beneficial and healthy work relationship.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 -- 1:45PM - 3:00PM

EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS The Importance of Environmental Stewardship Michael Kirschman, Mecklenburg County Park &Recreation Room: F CEUs: 0.1 Session: 904 NRPA, State Parks, the National Park System, state P&R associations and non-profits have all jumped on the Green bandwagon - and for good reason. The entire profession grew from a need for passive parks and for people to explore nature close to home. P&R agencies have come a looooong way over the years. Fast forward 100 years and now we are building water parks, multi-plex athletic facilities, skateparks, and dog parks. We've come a long way, but have we lost our way? This session puts into perspective why P&R agencies need to re-focus on stewardship initiatives, passive/nature based recreation, and conservation practices to tackle our most pressing issues, including obesity, declining property values, rising energy costs, crime, nature deficit disorder, and changing and aging populations.

Educational Sessions Sessions Educational Educational Sessions

Leveraging Funding and the Public Input Process to Increase Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities: Mike Kozlosky, Wilmington Metropolitan Planning Organization Room: 106 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 905 The session will provide recreation professionals and allied fields with information regarding development of comprehensive bicycle and pedestrian plans, leveraging local funding and the public input processes used in the Wilmington region to increase bicycle and pedestrian facilities and activity. The Wilmington MPO and City of Wilmington have been successful in developing long-range bicycle and pedestrian plans, leveraging local funding to secure state and federal dollars and completing public engagement in the planning process. Gain detailed information on how the Wilmington MPO and City of Wilmington have completed these efforts.

Compliance in Youth Sports: Background Checks, Concussion Training and More! John Engh & Kate Dilworth, National Alliance for Youth Sports Room: 107 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 906 Rules and regulations which impose requirements for youth sports coaches like specific trainings and background checks can be cumbersome for recreation professionals to implement and especially enforce. But these policies, which can cover anything from overall screening policies to concussions and bullying prevention, exist for a reason: to ensure sports are SAFE for children! So although they may be hard to implement, they need to be taken seriously. This session presents how to maintain compliance with coach related policies and oversee them for not only your programs but all youth sports organizations using your facilities.

Partnering for Project Success Sara Burroughs, SageDesign and Mike Kozlosky, Wilmington Metropolitan Planning Organization Room: 105 CEUs: 0.1 Session: 907 This session will discuss the various ways to partner for project success including public involvement, interagency partnerships and partnerships public, private, and non-profit organizations.

Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach | Room: B & C | CEUs: 0.1 | Session: 1001 At the heart of nature, the tree has always taken center stage. Within its structure are leadership lessons that can strengthen your team to take on real time Recreation and Park Leadership issues like: funding, the environment, managing people, and supporting stakeholders. Join Nicole Greer, PPCC, to explore from the roots to the canopy what a tree can teach you. 22

OFFSITE INSTITUTES The conference planning committee has assembled several great opportunities for learning outside of the classroom through off-site institutes. Each one will offer .2 ceus. Unless noted, cost of participation is included as part of your conference registration. While preregistration was required, spaces may be available. Check at the registration desk to find out. All offsite institutes depart from the river concourse.

Airlie Gardens – Sunday 9/21 1:00-3:30pm Eagles Island - Monday, 9/22 8:30 – 11 am Miracle League and Kiwanis Miracle Playground - Monday, 9/22 8:30 – 11 am Riverwalk - Monday, 9/22 1:30PM – 4Pm Cross City Trail by bike - Monday, 9/22 1:30PM – 4PM $28/person UNC Student Recreation Center - Tuesday, 9/23 8:30 – 11 am Wilmington Water Tour - Tuesday, 9/23 8:30– 11 am $30/person

SPONSORS

Supporting Sponsors

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Sponsors

Community Sponsors

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