FALL 2013
Page 12 PROVINCIAL ANNUAL BCRPA THE SEE AWARDS RECIPIENTS ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP
THE VOICE OF THE BRITISH COLUMBIA RECREATION AND PARKS ASSOCIATION FALL 2013 Watch for the new Shared Use Agreement Course coming online in November! BCRPA FALL 2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2013/2014
Gord Pederson - PRESIDENT TABLE OF CONTENTS Ron Higo - PRESIDENT ELECT Murray Kopp - PAST PRESIDENT COMMUNICATIONS Darryl Condon - DIRECTOR Message from the President 02 Lydia Drasic - DIRECTOR Trisha Davison - DIRECTOR From the Desk of the Chief Executive Officer 04 Bryna Kopelow - DIRECTOR Alison McNeil - DIRECTOR Introduction to Fall 2013 05 Janet Ready - DIRECTOR Suzanne Allard Strutt – CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER FEATURES REGIONAL LIAISONS Building a Positive Internal Culture for Sponsorship 06 Linda Finch (Vancouver Island/Coast), Stephanie Key (Vancouver/Lower Mainland), Sarah Cockerill (Peace/Northern Rockies), Shaun O’Neill Sponsor Partnerships Enhance Event (North Coast/Nechako), Louise Roberts-Taylor (Thompson/Okanagan), Joe Chirico (Kootenays), Richard Gauthier (Cariboo) Experiences in Surrey 08 HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS May Brown, Ken Winslade, Don Cunnings, Norman Olenick, Bill Webster, Hey Look We’re Doing Social Media 10 Mike Murray, Laird McCallum †, Harold Moist †, Robert Osborne †, Jim Panton †, Myrtle Thompson †, George Wainborn †, Lawrie Wallace † 2013 BCRPA Provincial Awards 12 STAFF Chief Executive Officer – Suzanne Allard Strutt, Executive Assistant BCFit ’13 Conference Highlights 26 to the CEO – Pam Dent, Operations Manager – Sharon Meredith, Information Systems Coordinator – Terry Lin, Office Administrator – BCRPA Fitness Leadership 2013 Award Recipients 27 Julie Dippenaar, Financial Manager – Sandra Couto, Corporate Account Coordinator – Matt Anderson, Accounts Payable Clerk – Boza Bobic, Communications Manager – Holly-Anne Burrows, Administrative Assistant – Connie Mah, Communications Officer – Cyndia Pilkington, NEWS Programs and Initiatives Manager – Janet Rerecich, Programs and Initiatives Coordinator – Natalie Korsovetski , Fitness Program, Manager Whereabouts 03 – Tracey Welsford, Fitness Program Assistant – Kieu Nguyen Regional Roundups 20 CONTRIBUTORS Stephanie Key, Bernie Colterman, Mary Rukavina, Chris Burdge Events and Meetings Planner 25 EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Sarah Cockerill, Linda Finch, David Leavers, Shaun O’Neill, Index to Advertisers 28 Cyndia Pilkington, Louise Roberts-Taylor, Suzanne Allard Strutt, Stephanie Key, Richard Gauthier, Joe Chirico
Editor-in-Chief/Publisher - Suzanne Allard Strutt Editor - Cyndia Pilkington
If you are interested in advertising in IF YOU HAVE AN ARTICLE IDEA RELATED TO Recreation & Parks BC, please contact: IN THE THE UPCOMING THEME, WINTER ISSUE: Email: [email protected], PLEASE CONTACT Telephone: 604.629.0965, Fax: 604.629.2651 Health and Recreation [email protected] Connection Ext.244 Published: October 2013 / BCRPA-Q0307 604.629.0965 Publication Number: 40681013
We acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia in the production of this resource. NON-MEMBER SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE AT A COST OF $40.00 PER YEAR.
VISIT US AT WWW.BCRPA.BC.CA Recreation & Parks BC is the official quarterly magazine of the British Columbia Recreation and † Indicates an Honorary Life Member who is deceased. Parks Association. Suite 301, 470 Granville Street, Vancouver, BC, V6C 1V5. Phone 604-629-0965, Fax 604-629-2651, e-mail [email protected]. Permission of the editor may be obtained for reproduction of specific articles provided full credits are shown for author and magazine. Opinions expressed in signed articles are not necessarily those of the Association. The magazine is issued to
Cert no. BCRPA members as one of the services included in membership dues. Non-member subscriptions are available at a cost of $40.00 per year.
Cert no. MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT GORD PEDERSON
ONE of the most rewarding tasks Award recipients received a special Branch, for its long history of providing performed by the BCRPA’s President- treat. The Lieutenant Governor of BC, consultation services for recreation Elect is to chair the BCRPA Annual the Honorable Judith Guichon, was in agencies in communities throughout Provincial Award selection committee. attendance to congratulate and pose for BC and for its leadership in aquatic OThe awards celebrate outstanding a photo with each recipient. During my lifesaving for the benefit of recreation programs, innovative facilities discussions with the Lieutenant Governor departments. Accepting the award on and dedicated professionals who following the ceremony, she expressed behalf of the Lifesaving Society was the demonstrate excellence in our sector. her appreciation for being included in Executive Director, Dale Miller, a true our event and praised our members for friend of our sector. I had the pleasure to chair the 2013 the important work we do in our commu- awards selection committee, and I found nities represented by our award winners The final presentation of the 2013 the task both difficult and rewarding on stage. ceremony was the presentation of the due to the high calibre of nominations President’s Award. The award honours received. Fortunately, my job was made Congratulations to our 2013 award individuals who show exceptional involve- easier by working with a committee winners: the City of Pitt Meadows ment, sustained contributions and great comprised of talented and dedicated (Facility Excellence Award); District of promise of a life-long commitment to the members. Special thanks to my fellow Peachland (Parks and Open Spaces Association and our sector. I was very committee members: Duane Lawrence, Award); District of West Vancouver privileged and proud to present the 2013 Kate Friars, Linda Finch, Monty Holding, (Program Excellence Award); President’s Award to Lorri Gibbard from Sarah Cockerill, Shaun DIVERSEcity Community Resource the City of Burnaby. Lorri has provided O’Neill and Stephanie Society (Program Excellence Award) exemplary service to the BCRPA and has “Congratulations Key for their participa- and the West Vancouver Community been instrumental in the development to our 2013 tion and insight. Centres Society and the District of of the education programming for the award winners” West Vancouver (PERC Award for BCRPA Symposium for many years. I Our committee Management Innovation and Ingenuity). was fortunate to have previously worked received nineteen Unfortunately I am not able to do justice with Lorri in Burnaby, and I can truly say nominations for the four award catego- in describing the winning submissions she was very deserving of the award. ries. Having served on the selection in a short article so please check out committee a number of years ago, I was the BCRPA website and see the award As we conclude the recognition of pleased to see that our current process recipient spotlight pages in this issue for our 2013 winners it won’t be long is much more streamlined and that more information. before we begin ramping up for submissions are digitized. Previously next year. When the call goes out in nineteen submissions would have been a At the 2012 Annual General Meeting, November for the 2014 nominations, mountain of binders. It is also important BCRPA members approved the please take the time to submit your to note that the nomination forms are de- establishment of a new, highly success stories. We have this once- signed to present submission information selective award to honour outstanding a-year opportunity to recognize and in a fair and consistent format. It doesn’t collaboration, achievement, excellence, showcase the best achievements matter if the submission represents a big creativity and innovation by an individual from our sector. Take advantage of it. city, small district, society or small- or or organization working outside the field I’m already looking forward to seeing big-budgeted project. Each submission of parks, recreation and culture. The what creative and innovative facilities, is judged on its own merits. Friend of the Sector Award was awarded programs and parks will be on display This year the 2013 BCRPA Provincial to the Lifesaving Society, BC and Yukon for 2014.
02 RECREATIONRECREATION & PARKS& PARKS BC BC MAGAZINE MAGAZINE WHEREABOUTS… PEOPLE AND PLACES OF BCRPA
Lars Larsen is the acting Sports Coordinator at Recreation Oak to acknowledge her significant contributions and outstanding Bay while Janet Welham is on maternity leave. Erin Stockill is the leadership. While Wendy acknowledged Recreation is her passion, acting Community Recreation Programmer at Recreation Oak Bay she is excited about the next phase of her life! Ma Baines has while Jennifer Pero is on maternity leave. Since May, Neil Parker joined the City of Richmond as the new Research Planner 2 for the has filled in for Ed Bakker as Tennis Supervisor at Recreation Oak Community Services Department. Rob McCullough has returned to Bay while Ed took a four-month leave of absence. At the District New Westminster as the Manager of the New Westminster Museum of Saanich, Sandra Pearson is the new Manager of Community & Archives. Ken Vautour, the Programmer at the Queensborough Services, joining the Department following substantial contributions Community Centre, has move on to new career pursuits. The City as the Superintendent of Recreation Services for the Regional of Powell River is pleased to announce the hiring of Ross deBoer District of Nanaimo. In the Cowichan Valley Regional District, the as Recreation Manager, replacing Mike Elvy who recently retired Island Savings Centre welcomes Marcel Aubin as its new sports after 37 years with the City of Powell River. Ross brings twenty programmer. Sherri Gosse, acting Community & Recreation Services years’ experience specifically in directing community services, sport Facility Manager, is overseeing the operations at the South Surrey and tourism-based operations. He has worked extensively with Indoor Pool, upon the retirement of Dawne Hannon-Perry early municipal, private and “not for profit” organizations, and has forged this year. Jeff Holland, Community & Recreation Services Facility strategic partnerships with numerous boards and commissions in Manager, has moved to Guildford Town Centre and is overseeing the development of new initiatives. Ross is also well-versed in whole the new aquatic centre project. Heath Mahoney, Community & management duties including programming, building and facilities Recreation Services Facility Manager, has moved to South Surrey Town Centre in preparation for the Grandview Heights aquatic centre operations, parks and green space planning, cultural services, project. Christian Akol formerly an Arena Service Worker at Bill special events, sport tourism, operating and capital budgets and Copeland Arena commenced his role as the new Facility Operations human resource coaching. Ross began his duties September 3, 2013. Supervisor at Edmonds Community Center and Fred Randall Pool. Ron Carter, long term Saanich Parks employee (and before that in Craig Collis, formerly the Chief License Inspector with the City of Oak Bay) retired at the end of July. Upon hearing the news, the trees Burnaby, has been hired as the new Assistant Director-Recreation, in Saanich were heard to say “No, wait, please don’t go!” SEAPARC commencing his role in mid July. Craig brings many years of Manager Larry Hutchings retired at the end of September after 22 experience and a broad skill set to his new role. After 35 years years with the organization. Larry has represented the communities with the Recreation Division, the last 13 as the Assistant Director- of Sooke and Juan de Fuca Electoral Area on a number of initiatives Recreation, Wendy Scott retired at the end of July. A celebration over the years including the addition of the pool, skate park, bike of Wendy’s career was held in late July creating an opportunity jump park and ball field, just to name a few. Congratulations, Larry!
FALL 2013 03 FROM THE DESK OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER SUZANNE ALLARD STRUTT
SPONSORS, advertisers, exhibitors, For our part, we provide personal Member engagement will be a key marketers – these are people with benefits to our dues-paying members, component of our strategic plan for whom we have a symbiotic relationship. as well as collective benefits to the entire 2014 to 2016 – which is currently in We need them as much as they need recreation community. In this context, development. As I write this, we are Sus, and a solid relationship with them personal benefits would include: analyzing the results of our recent is as important for BCRPA as it is for member survey which probed your communities. They are a means to • access to the most up-to-date understanding of, and agreement promote products and services of information available in our with, BCRPA’s strategic direction. We interest to our members and to deepen field also asked you about your level of our own capacity as an NGO. • professional development and satisfaction with current services and educational program offerings ways to increase your involvement and “Building and supporting • opportunities to network with engagement in the Association. member engagement is an other professionals in the field ongoing commitment of the • access to career information The new strategic plan will build on Association” and employment opportunities the Association’s past successes, its • opportunity to gain leadership core competencies and its proven experience. leadership. It sets us on a solid path Sponsors do not necessarily contribute for the next three years, and one that is solely for purposes of business focused on the needs of our members. development and to fill their corporate Benefits to the field (and to the At the same time, the BCRPA will pockets. Our experience is that many common good) include: continue to leverage its resources, provide financial support because they partnerships and networks that extend believe in the field and want to enhance • providing standards or into communities throughout BC, to the work of communities and contribute guidelines that support quality achieve our mission of leading the to the common goal of improving quality • influencing legislation and parks, recreation and culture sector in of life. We have experienced this first regulations that affect the field building and sustaining healthy, active hand with many BCRPA sponsors and • promoting greater public communities. admire their generosity. In fact, sponsors awareness of contributions in are some of the most engaged members the field You can explore the strategic plan of our Association. • gathering, analyzing and framework in the table on the following publishing data on trends in page. This framework will be revised Building and supporting member the field based on your survey feedback and engagement is an ongoing commitment • supporting education and will return to the Board of Directors for of the Association. We strive to be a entry into the field final approval in March, 2014. You will community of peers – a cooperative, • attracting competent people have another opportunity to comment so to speak, and not merely a vehicle into the field on the strategic plan and framework at to deliver to you a ‘basket of goods.’ • certifying those who meet a Symposium workshop; and we are When I reference ‘member engagement’ critical competency standards scheduling member endorsement and I mean members sharing information, • providing awards and adoption at the 2014 Annual General gaining insights, making connections recognition for excellence in Meeting. As always, I’m only a phone and generating the content that drives the field. call or email away. I would love to the Association. hear from you.
0204 RECREATIONRECREATION & PARKS& PARKS BC BC MAGAZINE MAGAZINE Stephanie Key Deputy Director of Parks, Recreation, and Culture, District of Mission
INTRODUCTION TO FALL 2013
IN recent years, parks, recreation and our desks often does not work as well FEATURE 1: Bernie Colterman, Managing culture staff have been experiencing as we might like. Partner of the Centre for Excellence for relentless pressure to do “more with Public Sector Marketing; FEATURE 2: Mary less.” As a result, our departments The three feature articles in this edition Rukavina, Manager of Special Events for Iare often tasked with securing new speak to the importance of developing a the City of Surrey and FEATURE 3: Chris sources of non-tax revenue through strategy and long term relationships with Burdge of bWEST Consulting share their advertising and sponsorships, but your audience through sponsorships and considerable experience and interesting how do we do this? This is not our social media. Without these two key ele- insights about current approaches to area of expertise. Trying to fumble ments many sponsorship and advertising sponsorship and about encouraging two- through this process off the side of programs will falter and ultimately fail. way conversations through social media.
BCRPA STRATEGIC PLAN FRAMEWORK 2014-2016
STRATEGIC INTENT The BCRPA is a recognized leader in building healthy, active individuals and communities.
MISSION The BCRPA is committed to leading the parks, recreation and culture sector in building and sustaining healthy active communities, including fostering economic and environmental sustainability. We inspire and support community leaders and practitioners through advocacy, communication, education, and resources.
VALUES Vision Driven, Ethical, Trustworthy, Fair, Transparent, Accountable, Respectful, Business Approach, Commitment to Excellence, Recognize Staff Contribution, Community Development Approach
ENABLE HEALTHY LEAD THE RECREATION AND FACILITATE PROFESSIONAL BUILD A STRONG AND STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES COMMUNITIES PARKS SECTOR DEVELOPMENT EFFECTIVE ORGANIZATION
Enable communities in BC to Promote the strategic vision Support knowledge exchange Build and maintain an OBJECTIVE STATEMENTS build supportive environments for the parks, recreation and and establishment of standards organizational structure that that promote and sustain culture sector to its members, of practice for recreation, parks supports and advances the healthy living. partners, NGOs and all levels of and fitness professionals to vision, mission and values of government and will invest in the better meet their evolving needs the Association. development of a new National and those of the communities Recreation Agenda. they serve.
1. Provide resources that 1. Advocate for improvements 1. Implement initiatives, 1. Build internal staff capacity ACTIONS enable communities to build in policy, legislation and services and resources to and competency to meet capacity to positively impact support to address the need support current and new future needs. healthy living, across the for aging infrastructure practitioners and volunteers 2. Govern effectively through range of social determinants renewal. to ensure quality leadership. board engagement, regular of health. 2. Promote the contributions 2. Establish standards of reviews and audits, 2. Collaborate with community of the recreation and parks practice for leadership evaluations and effective organizations, NGOs, sector to improving the development in BC. policies, including CEO governments and key health and wellness of 3. Develop, recognize and succession planning. stakeholders to plan and individuals and communities promote fitness leadership 3. Build the support of build healthy communities. to governments, NGOs and in BC. BCRPA membership 3. Support the elimination communities. 4. Establish the BCRPA as through increased of barriers that affect 3. Develop and sustain strategic the resource on practices, member engagement and accessibility and inclusion of partnerships with health, strategic issues, information, membership. individuals and communities education, sport and other policy and legislation for the 4. Continue to build operational in healthy relevant sectors. recreation and parks sector. and financial efficiencies. 4. Collaborate and contribute 5. Communicate and promote to the development of the the BCRPA brand, its National Recreation Agenda. value and its products and 5. Contribute to provincial/ services to members and territorial/national stakeholders. partnerships in BUILDING A POSITIVE INTERNAL CULTURE FOR SPONSORSHIP
MORE and more municipalities are getting serious about partnering with the corporate sector as a means of off-setting costs and improving programs and services. In fact, a national survey conducted by the Centre of Excellence for Public Sector Marketing in February, 2013 on naming rights, indicates Mthat the majority of Canadian municipalities are either actively involved in or seriously considering partnerships with the private sector.
Among our key findings: integrated into municipal operations partnership opportunities with • 63.4 percent are currently actively as municipalities grapple with the the private sector as a means of involved in seeking naming rights challenges of “doing more for less.” And reducing costs to taxpayers appears sponsors; the time for municipalities to get “in the to be gaining broader support • 66.7 percent of respondents that game” couldn’t be better. Here’s why: as elected representatives are are not currently actively seeking • The corporate shift from signs, becoming increasingly sensitive that naming rights sponsors are banners and “in-your-face” innovative, new sources of revenue considering it in the future. 26.7 messaging to more authentic ways need to be explored. percent were “not sure;” of connecting with customers • Naming rights are applied to a wide has made it possible for That’s the good news. The bad news range of facilities including: arenas, municipalities to engage with the is that municipalities face multiple banquet halls, bocce courts, ball private sector in more meaningful challenges implementing a sustainable diamonds, childcare facilities, ways, thus minimizing the fears corporate partnership program. These community rooms, convention of public backlash for the over- include: centres, dressing rooms, fitness commercialization or “selling out” • Working with large numbers of centres, libraries, meeting rooms, of municipal assets, programs and stakeholders who have limited pools, recreation complexes, soccer services; knowledge of sponsorship practices; fields, skateboard parks, skating • The steady growth of sponsorship • Ensuring “fair market value” is rinks, sports field and theatres; is a sign that many companies received for public assets; • 71.4 percent currently have a are looking to break through the • Potential public and media scrutiny; naming rights policy; advertising clutter and reach • Unrealistic expectations of what • 66.7 percent of municipalities use customers in less traditional ways; revenue can be expected (and internal staff to market and sell their and municipalities offer a wide when) from various opportunities; naming rights opportunities; range of “untapped” opportunities • Limited internal expertise to market • 41.2 percent are allocating to connect with customers in new and deliver the program; and, naming rights revenue towards environments; • An internal culture that is a combination of general • The increased popularity of naming typically not in line with the revenue accounts and facility rights as a branding tool provides entrepreneurial approach required enhancements. opportunities for municipalities to to market, negotiate and deliver on secure long-term funding for capital sponsorship agreements. This survey confirms our ongoing or program improvements for work in this area that sponsorship minimal servicing costs; and, Of all the issues, having a supportive revenue development is gradually being • The political will to explore internal culture is likely the the biggest
0206 RECREATIONRECREATION & PARKS& PARKS BC BC MAGAZINE MAGAZINE Bernie Colterman Managing Partner of the Centre of Excellence for Public Sector Marketing
So, how do you build an internal culture that supports a municipal-wide sponsorship and as a “necessary evil.” This means naming rights program? communicating success stories and publicly recognizing sponsors for hurdle that municipalities must overcome of what sponsorship is all about their contributions. to achieve success. Without an or unrealistic expectations as to innovative, motivated and client-driven when and how much sponsorship 5 Go for the “easy wins”. You can’t culture from all areas of the organization, revenue can be generated. All change a culture overnight. The the “champion” department usually major stakeholder groups need best approach is to implement the ends up fighting an uphill battle with to be included in the education program in areas where you have field staff, senior management, finance, process including field staff, senior the best chances for success (e.g., communications and even elected management team, council and the large numbers of defined audiences representatives. As a result, often even community-at-large. The use of an that sponsors might want to reach) the best laid plans get shelved because outside expert can add credibility and where there will be the highest it’s simply too much effort to get to your efforts and the added level of community acceptance anything done. advantage is that they can “tell it (e.g., new facilities, arenas, sports like it is” without fear of reprisal. fields, fitness programs). So, how do you build an internal culture that supports a municipal-wide 3 Mobilize your potential sales force. Municipalities that take a more sponsorship and naming rights program? Ultimately, you want to encourage strategic approach towards sponsorship Here are some key steps: all municipal staff to become and naming rights activities can be sponsorship-centric; that is, to successful at finding new sources of 1 Address perceived barriers as well look for opportunities for potential revenue without risking damage to their as the “what’s in it for me” factor. corporate involvement as a means brand or corporate values. However, For municipal staff to be motivated, of operating more efficiently. This municipalities must become more they need to see how the program means providing them with the professional in their approach towards can benefit their operation, either information, training and mandate the positioning and marketing of their from increased dollars, in-kind to identify and approach potential assets and “nimble” in their ability to or promotion that helps them sponsors as a normal course respond to the unique requirements sustain or improve their programs of business. This also means of potential sponsors. All this starts or services. This means allocating recognizing staff for their efforts with having the pieces in place before a portion of the dollars generated to operate more cost-effectively going out to market, carefully managing towards the specific program or through partnerships. expectations and focusing on the areas facility that is impacted by the that are likely to be the most successful sponsorship. You also need to meet 4 Ensuring senior management and and least controversial. with the various departments or council commitment to the program. individuals that will be impacted A culture is not likely to change Bernie Colterman is Managing Partner of the Centre by the program to understand if support from the top is weak. of Excellence for Public Sector Marketing where he specializes in municipal sponsorship and market- perceived risks and address these A starting point is that corporate ing. Bernie assists municipalities across Canada in issues upfront. partnerships need to be positioned assessing their naming rights and sponsorship assets as a positive collaborative effort to as well as strategy development. He also provides speaking and training services and is the founder of 2 Educate your audiences. Most improve the lives of citizens where the Municipal Forum on Sponsorship which will be held people have pre-conceived notions they live, work and play, and not this year on November 7 in Toronto.
FALL 2013 07 SPONSOR PARTNERSHIPS ENHANCE EVENT EXPERIENCES IN SURREY
OVER the last number of years, the City sponsor for Party for the Planet – of Surrey has developed a reputation for BC’s Biggest Earth Day Celebration – truly exceptional events including Surrey and a great example of a partner with Canada Day, Fusion Festival, Children’s shared goals. We were well aware SFestival, Party for the Planet and Surrey of the various green initiatives TD Tree Lighting Festival. These events, was focused on and approached them and particularly the city’s five major with the idea of including our event festivals, draw huge crowds of hundreds as part of their overall environmental of thousands of people from across the strategy. Every year we work with city and around the region. Every year TD to find new ways to participate the Special Events Team works hard and promote their environmental to push ourselves even further and to work in our community. deliver a better-than- ever experience. Even Another great example is Coast Capital with this huge team Savings Credit Union whose head office The Surrey Fusion Festival 2013: The Ultimate Celebration of Music, Food and Culture For all of our effort, none of it would is situated in the City of Surrey. Their events, the be possible without our mandate as “local community builders” City of Surrey corporate and media was a great starting point for us, and Another example of a committed has been very sponsors. their early involvement with our Canada and key sponsor to Surrey’s events is successful in Day event was so successful that it led the Surrey Downtown Improvement finding media The City of Surrey them to become presenting sponsors at Association. They, too, share a similar and business Special Events Team Canada Day and Fusion Festival and now vision for the city when it comes to partners who has become very the new Tree Lighting Festival. Coast share our goals. the revitalization of the city core and successful at securing Capital Savings and the City of Surrey a commitment to making the city a sponsorship over share in a vision of building communities better place to live, work and play. the last number of and focusing on people. years, thanks to an They are great supporters and aggressive but personal approach. While big sponsors with a broad appeal sponsors of many events that take We view sponsorship relationships in are very important, City of Surrey place not only in their neighbourhood the long term and focus on building events strive to be diverse, giving us but in the overall city itself. partnerships with key members of the many opportunities to include sponsors local business community and the media with a narrower focus. The Fusion The success of our events hinges based on an understanding of each Festival, which has a large and very on wide promotion, and we partner other’s goals and values. popular food component and includes with media companies in print, radio, a Celebrity Cooking Stage, is supported television and online media to not For all of our events, the City of Surrey by companies like Safeway. They add only spread the word about our has been very successful in finding hugely to the appeal of our event and events but to add excitement to them. media and business partners who help us connect with thousands of We work with our media partners to share our goals. TD Bank is a wonderful dedicated food-lovers. craft messages that make sense for
0208 RECREATIONRECREATION & PARKS& PARKS BC BC MAGAZINE MAGAZINE Mary Rukavina Manager, Special Events City of Surrey
Surrey Tree Lighting Festival 2013 Surrey Canada Day 2013: featuring the tallest holiday tree in BC Over 100,000 people attended the event this year
While big sponsors with a broad appeal are very important, City of Surrey events strive to be diverse, giving us many opportunities to include sponsors with a narrower focus.
the audiences, ensure that media representing the city every time, enhancing that experience, not involvement at the event connects reminding ourselves who we are and only through their financial support the media with that audience and what we’re capable of and, of course, but through their time and talents. makes the event more fun for showing the rest of the region what everyone. Whether it’s a large we have to offer. In addition, we’re regional media outlet or a very small providing a great platform for Mary Rukavina is Manager of Special Events at the local one, we provide real engagement business and media to connect City of Surrey. She has worked for the City of Surrey and great exposure. with each other and with the tens for almost a decade. Her focus has been on building of thousands of people who attend It helps us to remember that our our festivals and other events. We relationships with the corporate community to procure festivals don’t just provide a fun offer an amazing experience for sponsorships related to the major events the City of community-building experience for everyone who attends one of our Surrey hosts. She has been committed to producing the people of Surrey, although that events, and we believe that sponsors high-quality events for the community and the is the main goal. We know we’re also have an important part to play in surrounding region.
FALL 2013 09 Hey Look We’re Doing Social Media
ARE you thinking about using social media to grow your business? What’s that? You’ve already got a Facebook page and a Twitter account too? You even have a YouTube channel. And the intern A(co-op student, mailroom kid) is rockin’ it for you. That’s awesome – and I see it all the time.
Keys for Success • Human Resources: attract and Here’s the thing; there are two items retain quality employees. that are essential to success with social media. Unfortunately those are the two Listen things that, in my experience, companies Unlike other forms of marketing there most often miss. The first thing you need are two sides to social media. The ability is a strategy – a real, well-planned and to use social channels to listen in on con- well-researched strategy. The second versations is just as valuable, if not more is the resources (people) to execute so, than the ability to communicate. and manage the strategy on an ongoing basis. The emphasis is on ongoing – to Like all conversations the key to social Know Your Audience ensure consistency. The web is littered media is listening. Start by listening to One way to ensure you hit your with abandoned blogs, Facebook pages your customers, prospects, competitors target and communicate with the and Twitter accounts. and others in your category. What are right people is to create personas. they talking about and with whom? These are short descriptions of fictional The surest way to fail at social media is There are a number of tools available individuals that represent your target. to rush into it without a strategy. to automate the process of gathering They’re not real people, but rather and analyzing conversations, from the they are archetypes that represent Define Your Goals high-end and very expensive; Sales real people. They will help you The first step is to determine your goals. Force and Lithium to the basic and free; identify the character traits, The best goals are SMART: Specific, SocialMention and GoogleAlerts. personalities, habits and attitudes of Measureable, Achievable, Realistic and your customers. Timely. It is also important to identify A social media management dashboard what metrics you are going to track, is also a must. There are a few options Create rich personas that are and how you’re going to measure them. including TweetDeck, SproutSocial and representative of your audience by Potential goals include: Hootsuite. Any of these will enable you listening both on and offline and by • Awareness: use social media to to manage most, if not all, of your social conducting one-on-one interviews create awareness and connect with networks from one location. They are with key stakeholders to find out: new online communities. excellent for monitoring conversations– • Leads: incoming calls, contact from from your own @ mentions to geo- • Where they spend their time submission and email subscribers. targeted keyword searches as well as • Which social networks they use • Loyalty: increase retention and/or scheduling content posts to multiple • What they would be interested in improve customer service. platforms. hearing from your organization
0210 RECREATIONRECREATION & PARKS& PARKS BC BC MAGAZINE MAGAZINE Chris Burdge Social Media Expert
Here’s one small, but apropos, example of a company that’s listening to its customers(in this case me) and responding. In this example I tweeted a comment to SiriusXM and they responded in an appropriate manner within 4 minutes.
a mistake and do your best to make it right. It’s better than being called out on Twitter and having thousands of people retweet something before you see it and ‘react’.
Test, Track and Tweak Once you’re up and running you’ll start to gain an understanding of what works, what resonates with customers, how and when they prefer to engage. It’s a process. One of the advantages of social media is your ability to track and measure results. This allows you to test various tactics, offers, headlines or calls-to-action, and tweak them based on real results.
Now you’re ready to start tweeting, post- Conversations With a solid strategy in place, you’re on ing, pinning, liking or commenting. There Contrary to what many think, social the right track to successfully leveraging are no hard and fast rules, but there are media is not all about marketing – ‘our social media to grow your business. So some best practices you should follow: widgets feature the most innovative blah, before you run out and open a Twitter blah, blah’ – it’s about conversations, account make sure you have a social Be transparent. Let people know who transparent, inclusive and often very media strategy and the resources to they are talking to. Use a name and an engaging and sincere conversations. effectively manage it for the long term. appropriate picture. People like to talk to
The challenge, and one of the key people, not brands, icons or logos. Since 1994 Chris has been leveraging Internet-based reasons for having a strategy, is that communications to build brands for companies such as BMW, Royal Bank and Nestle Purina, as well as there are thousands of conversations Keep it conversational. Lose the BC-based businesses including Island Savings Credit and channels, but not enough time corporate voice. Write like you’re talking Union and the Victoria International Airport. He has to participate in all of them. The key to a friend or a customer in the store. led the digital marketing practice at global agencies is finding and/or starting the right Ask questions and look for feedback. McCann Erikson, Publicis and Cove-Ito Japan. In 2009, Chris founded bWEST, a social media conversations. strategy firm focused on helping companies leverage Stick to your knitting. Talk about what social media. In 2010 Chris co-founded Social Media When developing a strategy you will want you know and what’s relevant to your Camp, Canada’s largest conference dedicated to the exploration and sharing of ideas and insights around to think through questions like: brand and company. Don’t get pulled social media. The annual conference includes world- • What are your business and into conversations about politics, religion class speakers and attracts more than 700 attendees. marketing objectives or other potentially controversial issues. Chris is a frequent speaker at universities and • Who is your primary audience colleges and has been featured widely in the media including CBC Radio, CTV, CHEK News and Shaw TV. • What do they want to hear from you Admit mistakes when they happen. Chris was honoured to be chosen by Douglas Magazine • What social channels are they using Be the first to admit when you make as one of their “Ten To Watch” for 2013.
FALL 2013 11 2013 BCRPA PROVINCIAL AWARD RECIPIENTS The BCRPA Annual Provincial Awards were presented in May at Symposium 2013 in Whistler. The awards celebrate recreation as an essential social service which builds healthy individuals, communities and environments. Five communities and community groups from across the province were presented Provincial Awards of Excellence to recognize outstanding efforts and innovation in the parks, recreation and culture sector.
This year’s five awards were presented in four categories: Award Presentors (from left to right) • Facility Excellence Suzanne Allard Strutt (Chief Executive Officer), Her Honour, the Honorable Judith Guichon (Lieutenant Governor of BC), • Program Excellence Gord Pederson (President, BCRPA Board of Directors) • Parks and Open Spaces • PERC Award for Management Innovation & Ingenuity
The BCRPA would like to again congratulate each of the 2013 Provincial Award recipients and recognize them for excellence and innovation in the field of recreation as well as for their exceptional efforts to enhance recreation facilities, programs and services in British Columbia.
0212 RECREATIONRECREATION & PARKS& PARKS BC BC MAGAZINE MAGAZINE FACILITY EXCELLENCE AWARD RECIPIENT:
South Bonson Community Centre, Above: Suzanne Strutt, BCRPA CEO; Wendy McCormick, Director of Recreation, City of Pitt Meadows; Her Honour, The Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of British Colum- City of Pitt Meadows bia; Gord Pederson, President, BCRPA Board of Directors.
Night time view of South Bonson Community Centre
The South Bonson Community Centre generating operational power for the the carving which illustrates the natural incorporates green building principles building with photovoltaic panels, pre- surroundings of Pitt Meadows and the (LEED Gold), community heritage and heating water with solar panels and rich history of the Katzie First Nation. the use of reclaimed wood in its design. reusing rainwater. The two-storey 12,000 sf structure is the The Centre has become a community first building in Pitt Meadows to pursue The main hall of the Centre features a 16 focal point and gathering place as well LEED certification at the gold level. It was x 8 foot wood relief wood carving which as a point of neighbourhood pride for designed and built with consideration was designed by Pitt Meadows artist its design, functionality, historical and to the environment, minimizing site Brad Dinwoodie and created through the community significance and beauty. disturbance, repurposing industrial efforts of more than 1,200 local residents Situated next to the Katzie First Nations land, ensuring water and energy under the guidance of local master Centre, the Centre is home to many efficiency, reducing light pollution, using carvers and artists. Over 100 aboriginal cultural and social development events and reusing local building materials, students and 550 people contributed to and activities.
PHOTOS: South Bonson Community Centre photos courtesy of Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Parks and Leisure Services. FALL 2013 13 PARKS AND OPEN SPACES AWARD
RECIPIENT:
Centennial Way Beach Avenue Project, Above: Suzanne Strutt, BCRPA CEO; Cheryl Wiebe, Director of Community Services, District of Peachland; Her Honour, The Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of British Colum- District of Peachland bia; Gord Pederson, President, BCRPA Board of Directors.
Centennial Way Multi-Use Pathway is a continuous 3-meter wide walkway stretching from one end of Peachland to the other along the community’s scenic waterfront. The project has received overwhelming public and political support and acceptance and has already become a regional gathering point for both residents and visitors.
The Centennial Way Beach Avenue Project has had a big impact on a small community. It was designed to attract a variety of users from running groups and dog walkers to families with kids in a wagon or small children on bikes. Because of the low grade, it is used regularly by people in wheelchairs and with walkers. Part of the project includes a wheelchair- accessible ramp to the lake, a wheelchair-accessible picnic table and an aquatic wheelchair.
The Centennial Way project connects to the Trails BC program which in turn connects to the Trans Canada Trail system. These connections support the community’s long-term vision of providing sustainable transportation linkages not only within Peachland, but also to the neighbouring communities.
0214 RECREATIONRECREATION & PARKS& PARKS BC BC MAGAZINE MAGAZINE PHOTOS: The public enjoying Centennial Way on foot and on wheels PERC AWARD FOR MANAGEMENT INNOVATION AND INGENUITY
RECIPIENT: West Vancouver Community Centres Above: Suzanne Strutt, BCRPA CEO; Sue Ketler, Senior Manager of Community Services, ac- Society & District of West Vancouver cepting the award on behalf of the West Vancouver Community Centres Society and the District of West Vancouver; Her Honour, The Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of British Situational Analysis Columbia; Gord Pederson, President, BCRPA Board of Directors.
The District of West Vancouver and the West Vancouver Community Centres Society (WVCCS) developed Annual workplan updated Update situational with situational analysis analysis (February) the innovative Situational Analysis and Community Benefit Scorecard as a method for measuring the community Situational analysis Implement situational informs 2012 workplan benefits of recreation services as well as analysis recommendations & recommended actions in operational & capital (Presented to Program the financial impacts of those services. budgets (July) & Finance Committees, March) The WVCCS developed a situational SITUATIONAL analysis and benefits scorecard as a way of looking at the value of recreation ANALYSIS from a business perspective. ANNUAL WORKPLAN (FLOW CHART) Situational Analysis Situational analysis The Situational Analysis and Community high level presentation also informs facility Benefits Scorecard provide decision to the Board needs priorities (May/June) (April) makers with measurements of key performance indicators, attendance, Program & Finance Implement demographics, resources, budget, Committees respond recommendations to 2012 workplan & work plan and community feedback. in Fall/Winter leisure recommended guide (April/May) actions (April) The tools have already been adopted for use at other community centres in West Vancouver where they were modified to reflect the values and goals of each organization. THANKS TO SPONSORSHIP FROM
The Community Benefits Scorecard DB PERKS & ASSOCIATES LTD provides a ground-breaking COMMERCIAL AQUATIC SUPPLIES, AND SPEEDO CANADA, THE BCRPA STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS WERE AWARDED TO: method for communities to measure the programs that provide intrinsic RECIPIENTS: value to their communities. The situational analysis and scorecard Nicole Barrett, University of Victoria are adaptable across a variety of Tara Nazemi, Langara College recreation settings and situations, Jody Phibbs, University of Northern BC and they allow for equitable benchmark- ing across the recreation sector.
FALL 2013 15 PROGRAM EXCELLENCE AWARD RECIPIENT:
District of West Vancouver, Ambleside Above: Suzanne Strutt, BCRPA CEO; Colleen Huskisson, Community Services Supervisor, Dis- trict of West Vancouver; Her Honour, The Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of Adventure Playground Camp British Columbia; Gord Pederson, President, BCRPA Board of Directors.
The District of West Vancouver’s Adventure Playground Camp takes an idea that has been around for a while (“go outside and play”) and refreshes it in a way that shows creativity and absolute relevance for today. The camp provides opportunities for children to build, saw, hammer, take apart, put back together and create while enhancing their initiative and self- confidence and helping to develop their social skills and sense of responsibility.
This hands-on, creative program exemplifies one of the BCPRA’s main goals – to encourage unstructured, child-led play in nature. The Ambleside Adventure Playground Camp gives children the opportunity to play and get messy in a less-regulated natural environment. Kids at the Ambleside Adventure Playground Camp
Heinz Berger, former West Vancouver Parks Manager and developer of the Ambleside Adventure Playground Camps, says “children have an irresistible urge to build houses and dens, dig holes, make gardens, look after pets, make bonfires and cook meals outdoors. These are delightfully messy occupations. Children enjoy being messy and untidy. Most adults hate it. We have to decide if we are making playgrounds for children or playgrounds that please adults.”
RECREATIONRECREATION & PARKS& PARKS BC BC MAGAZINE MAGAZINE PHOTOS: (This page) Ambleside Adventure Playground Camp photos courtesy of District of West Vancouver. 0216 PHOTOS: (Page 17) Courtesy of DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society. PROGRAM EXCELLENCE AWARD RECIPIENT: DIVERSEcity Community Resources Above: Suzanne Strutt, BCRPA CEO; Mary Tanielian, Manager of Career Services and Director of Society and City of Surrey, Sports & Me First Steps at DIVERSEcity, accepting the award on behalf of the DIVERSEcity Community Re- sources Society and the City of Surrey; Her Honour, The Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Pilot Progam Governor of British Columbia; Gord Pederson, President, BCRPA Board of Directors.
The Sports & Me Pilot Program for the first time, and it helps to develop encourages 6 to 12 year old refugee the basic skills and confidence in all children and their families to participate participants that begin to forge the in community and school sports. connections to community, neighbours and other peers that are important to The program takes the traditional building a sense of belonging. multisport model offered by recreation centres and slows down the process The Sports & Me Pilot Program of teaching sport skills. It also helps addresses the needs of refugee children children and their families develop and their families and was designed to sports language and etiquette. It is a reflect the diversity and emerging needs “catch-up” for new Canadian children of the community. This pilot program and their parents. provides an entry point for new Canadian children and their families to engage The program provides opportunities for in the community and participate in Youth at the Sports & Me Pilot Program girls to participate in sports, at times, healthy activities.
Greater than the sum of the parts
peopL e + p L a C es
Urban Systems Ltd. and Catherine Berris Associates Inc. urbansystems.ca | cbainc.bc.ca are pleased to announce that we are joining forces. 550–1090 Homer St Vancouver, BC With almost 30 years of experience in landscape architecture, community and 604 235 1701 environmental planning, and GIS/3D visualization services, Catherine Berris and her team add a valuable new dimension to Urban Systems’ South Coast practice. This is an exciting time for both companies as it allows us to bring even greater CB value to our many combined clients throughout Western Canada. A FRIEND OF THE SECTOR PRESIDENT’S AWARD AWARD
Above: Suzanne Strutt, BCRPA, CEO; Dale Miller, Executive Director, Lifesaving Society, BC Above: Suzanne Strutt, BCRPA, CEO; Lorri Gibbard, Acting Manager of Recreation Services, and Yukon Branch; Her Honour, The Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of British City of Burnaby; Her Honour, The Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia; Gord Pederson, President, BCRPA Board of Directors. Columbia; Gord Pederson, President, BCRPA Board of Directors.
RECIPIENT: RECIPIENT: Dale Miller, Executive Director of the Lifesaving Society, BC Lorri Gibbard, Acting Manager of Recreation Services, City of and Yukon Branch, received the inaugural BCRPA Friend of Burnaby, received the BCRPA 2013 President’s Award at the the Sector Award. The award honours outstanding collabora- annual Symposium in Whistler. tion, achievement, excellence, creativity and innovation. The President’s award honours individuals who show The Lifesaving Society is well known for its work in exceptional involvement, sustained contributions and great the prevention of drowning and water-related injury promise for a life-long commitment to the BCRPA and the through lifesaving, lifeguarding and rescue instruction; parks, recreation and culture sector. public education in aquatic safety; and safety audits of aquatic facilities. Throughout her career, Lorri Gibbard has had a vision for recreation services that combines responding to community The BCRPA Friend of the Sector award recognizes the needs, great customer service and team building. She does Lifesaving Society for its long history of providing consultation her work with passion, integrity and attention to detail while services for recreation agencies in communities throughout maintaining a bigger vision of the recreation, parks and BC and for its leadership in aquatic lifesaving. culture sector. Congratulations Lorri!
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Through the BCRPA, you and your colleagues share information, make connections and generate the advocacy strategies, tools and resources that drive our common objective – a healthy BC.
Strengthen your association, your professional community and your sector by renewing your membership for 2014 today – your voice matters!
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Renew your BCRPA membership by December 31, 2013 and be eligible to WIN a three-night stay at the Delta Okanagan Grand Resort during Symposium, April 23 to 25, 2014 in Kelowna, or one of three $100 American Express gift cards. BCRPA REGIONAL ROUNDUPS
In addition to tried and true programs, this Fall Hawthorne Grove. The Harris Barn is already • LOWER MAINLAND we are offering some interesting alternatives booked completely through to the end of 2014 for children and adults. Kids can paint fish for weddings and special events. bowls and take home their new pet in its Stephanie Key custom “home”. Adults and children will have In late fall 2013 the groundbreaking on the 604-820-5357 the opportunity to support the fundraising expanded North Delta Recreation Centre is [email protected] efforts for the new gymnasium expansion with expected to take place. This $10 million project our tile project fundraiser hosted by Colour Me is slated for completion in January 2015 and will Mine studios. Participants will paint a tile that include a new weight room facility, gymnasium, represents themselves, their business or their integrated change rooms for the outdoor pool family that will become part of the décor of the and new municipal service office space. PORT COQUITLAM new gymnasium expansion. Construction on The Youth Ambassadors, a youth led commit- this exciting new addition began in late August Delta continues to offer many free community tee in Port Coquitlam, are partnering with the and will open up additional space for fitness special events throughout the year and this fall Ismaili CIVIC group, RCMP, Community Police, as well as sports and recreation programs. will be no different. The 2nd annual Luminary Starbucks, Benjamin Moore Paints and a local Programming staff is excited to include more Festival took place on Saturday Sept 7 at artist for the second annual ParticiPAINT Mural active recreation for children, youth and adults Sunstone Park in North Delta. Our annual Fright project. once the facility is open in late Spring. We Fest and Family Pumpkin Carving extravaganza partnered with PacificSport Fraser Valley to will take place in late October and we will ParticiPAINT was developed by Port Coquitlam offer a NCCP Fundamental Movement Skills celebrate National Sports Day on November 3h Youth Services to help to address the illegal course in our community on Sept 21 with the at Sungod Recreation Centre and South Delta tags that pop up around the municipality. The goal to engage the adults to increase physical Recreation Centre....and then on to Christmas! partnerships see community business, organi- literacy for all ages in our community. zations and residents coming together to sup- Delta is introducing a new marketing strategy port and beautify their community by develop- NEW WESTMINSTER for our programs. Try It...Learn It...Live It. ing a mural to cover walls that are regularly the Queensborough Community Centre Expan- target of graffiti and vandalism. The volunteers sion: The Queensborough Community Centre TOWNSHIP OF LANGLEY will also be roving the streets to remove some reopened on May 21, 2013 a $7.67M expansion The Township of Langley is pleased to announce tags on power boxes, schools and nearby walls. that grew the facility by 13,000 square feet. the opening of a 55,182 sq ft addition to the The Leeds Gold standard upgrade was funded Langley Events Centre. The new addition The muralist, Kris Kupskay, will provide an through the Development Assistant Compensa- includes a NHL-size arena exclusively for outline following the youth selected theme, tion agreement between the City, Province of dry floor activities, two gymnasiums, eight and then community volunteers put brush BC, BC Lottery Corporation and Gateway Casi- dressing rooms, concession and ticket windows. to “concrete canvas” to complete the mural. nos. The new facility, deemed as the City’s first Although not physically attached to the existing This provides opportunities of leadership and neighbour HUB, offers valuable community ser- Langley Events Centre, the new addition will growth for the youth involved and allows the vices such as a Branch Library, Police Services offer increased hosting capability for events community to gain a sense of ownership in their offices, community offices/kitchen/lounge and that require multiple court services as well neighbourhood. licensed childcare. as the additional floor space for conferences, tradeshows and special events. The arena will DISTRICT OF KENT Public Art Policy: City Council has recently serve as a practice facility for the Vancouver After a very busy Summer with the Ferny approved New Westminster’s first Public Art Stealth, Langley’s new National Lacrosse Coombe Pool, Children’s Summer Camps, an en- Policy that outlines multiple strategies which League tenant. hanced Pioneer Park Twilight Concert Series and will be used to build the City’s public art our 5th annual Movie in the Park, the District of collection over the next decade and beyond. A This past summer, the Township successfully Kent is moving into Fall programming. We have Public Art Reserve Fund has been established hosted both the 2013 BC Summer Special been experimenting with programming delivery using multiple funding streams, including an Olympics and the 2013 Legion National Youth options and this past Summer we printed fewer annual commitment of $2 per resident. The Track and Field Championships. These events hard copies of the Spring and Summer Leisure Public Art program is guided by the City’s Public brought over 1,000 athletes each to the Guide and directed our patrons to our website Art Advisory Committee. municipality in July and August. All while planning for programming information. Leisure Guides continues for the 2014 BC Seniors Games! were available upon request for those still wish- DELTA A new partnership with Kwantlen First Nations ing for that hard copy. We saw little if no change On May 25th, Delta officially opened up the will see the opening of the lel∂m’ arts and in registration numbers from this venture. This Harris Barn. This re-located heritage barn cultural café this fall at Bedford Landing in Fall we are taking it a step further and having was erected by the community in the summer Fort Langley. The Township secured a beautiful our local newspaper print cover wraps with our of 2012 and has now officially opened as an riverfront space through a development programming information in an effort to relieve event facility. It is located in Ladner, on the agreement and will have the opportunity to staff from the in-house production tasks. same property as Kirkland House, known as program up to 1,000 hours per year at this new
0220 RECREATIONRECREATION & PARKS& PARKS BC BC MAGAZINE MAGAZINE BCRPA REGIONAL ROUNDUPS location for mostly arts and cultural services. Richmond is the first municipality in Canada to accessibility of spaces in Richmond. Find out The facility including the café will be operated promote the accessibility of its public spaces more at www.richmond.ca/accessibility. by the local band. through planat, an easy-to-use, interactive, digital media tool for rating the level of access CITY OF SURREY CITY OF RICHMOND to buildings and open spaces. Cities Fit for Children 2013 is being hosted by Garden City Lands Community Engagement: the City of Surrey on November 21 and 22nd. Richmond residents have a unique opportunity to create a new legacy for their community on With 29 municipal venues and public spaces This event is a provincial summit that brings the Garden City Lands, an extraordinary 55.2 fully rated on Planat, residents and visitors of together local, regional and provincial lead- hectares (136.5 acres) of open space located all abilities can be more informed about the ers involved in policy decisions to design and within the Agricultural Land Reserve in the heart of Richmond.
The Ideas Fair held on June 1 marked the first large scale public event on the Garden City Lands in more than 85 years. This was the first step in a year-long process, throughout which there will be many opportunities for input. Find out more at www.creategardencitylands.ca.
Social Development Strategy: Richmond’s draft Social Development Strategy will help guide the City’s decisions and resource allocation on so- cial development matters over the next 10 years.
It is also intended to be a resource for external Arborist Te stakeholders, which will: chn ici 1. Identify social development priorities for an City attention between now and 2022. 2. Clarify the roles of the City and other stake- e holders with respect to addressing particu- r u lar social development topics. lt 3. Provide a foundation for a more integrated, cu ti coordinated and sustainable approach for or social development in Richmond. n H ctio rodu The final version found at www.richmond.ca/ P plandev/socialplan/strategy.htm was presented
Lands to Council for adoption in September 2013. D ca
pe H
a o i rt
City launches online events approval software: r ic y u
The City’s Online Events Application and Ap- lt
M u r proval System software is now live! The sys- e
i tem is designed as a one stop shop for event l k organizers to submit applications for significant P special events being held in Richmond’s vari- r o ous outdoor park spaces, as well as for private d u events that may require multi-agency aware- c ness of the event. ti on The new online application found at www.richmond.ca/eventapplication, will en- hance the efficiency of processing special event applications.
Planat Launch: On May 29, the City of Richmond and the Rick Hansen Foundation announced that
HortEd BC.indd 1 17/11/10 10:16 AM FALL 2013 21 BCRPA REGIONAL ROUNDUPS
build healthy and safe communities for children, awards. The Town of Comox added a 5000 youth and families. This year’s theme is “Rights • VANCOUVER ISLAND square foot fitness centre and an additional of The Child” and workshops will fall under three 800 square foot fitness annex to its Community themes - Healthy Built Environments, Programs Centre in the spring of 2011. The feedback from and Services, and Meaningful Civic Engage- Linda Finch the public continues to be extremely uplifting. ment. See www.surrey.ca/citiesfitforchildren for 250-642-8006 registration information and more details about [email protected] The Comox Recreation Department has been workshops and keynotes. awarded funding by BC Healthy Communities to develop a Municipal Alcohol Policy (MAP). A Build Surrey! Municipal Alcohol Policy is a harm-reduction The South Surrey Recreation Centre is well un- COWICHAN VALLEY REGIONAL DISTRICT initiative that addresses public health and derway on its $7 million Fitness and Multi-pur- The Cowichan Valley Regional District cel- safety while also raising awareness of the roles pose/Arts expansion which will include an 8000 ebrated the official opening of a new public and responsibilities of alcohol consumption sq ft fitness centre. washroom, mountain bike wash station and en- and provision. This policy will help to clarify hanced day use area at Quarry Nature Park in the guidelines for alcohol service at special The Guildford Aquatic Centre construction proj- Cobble Hill (Electoral Area C) on August 10th. occasion events. The project focuses on ect is well underway with the scheduled open- This park connects to the Cobble Hill Regional Special Occasion Licenses or SOL’s. SOL’s ing – Fall 2014. The Grandview Aquatic Centre Recreation Area and in recent years has seen allow non-profits or individuals to sell alcohol construction project is to break ground Fall of a dramatic growth in visitors due to improved in beer gardens, weddings and other events in 2013 with a scheduled opening – Fall 2015. multi-use trails, new dog off-leash area and a otherwise-unlicensed locations such as parks Both aquatic facilities are 50 metre competi- dirt jump bike park, with over 100,000 visitors and community halls. The task force includes tion pools with leisure pool additions and full annually. A unique feature of the washroom fa- Parks and Recreation management, VIHA, amenities. cility is the use of reclaimed waste water for toi- RCMP, Liquor Distribution Branch and sports/ lets and urinals through connection to a purple user groups. Cloverdale’s covered skate park, which will be pipe system extended from a nearby sewage located adjacent to the Cloverdale Recreation treatment facility, which reduces demands on CITY OF COURTENAY Centre has broken ground, and construction has the local groundwater aquifer. Future expan- After over a year of construction, the Courtenay commenced. sion of the reclaimed water system will extend Recreation Lewis Centre is ready for its final to irrigating landscaped areas of Quarry Nature reveal. The September 24 grand opening cel- The Community and Recreation Services Divi- Park and other nearby local parks within Cobble ebration marked the completion of this popular sion has recently begun an in depth review of Hill Village. Grant funds for the reclaimed water community facility’s expansion and renovation. City of Surrey aquatic services and strategy de- system were provided through the federal Towns velopment, beginning with a consultation report for Tomorrow and Community Works funding The Lewis Centre project includes a new 11,000 done by Sean Healy and Peter Fox. This report is programs. square foot expansion, which opened to the pub- an initial step towards the determination of how lic in June. The expansion offers a 4,000 square the City of Surrey can effectively meet aquatic Cowichan Lake Recreation is upgrading the foot Wellness Centre, 3,000 square foot activity needs as it soon becomes one of the largest pro- heating systems in their four community halls. room, plus accessible washrooms and change viders of aquatic services in BC. The project upgrade to high efficiency air source rooms. heat pumps offers an opportunity to reduce an- BURNABY nual operating costs by an estimated 77 percent Renovations to portions of the original facility The Recreation Division will be using new volun- each year. Eliminating the oil furnaces reduces have been ongoing for several months. Changes teer management software, Volunteer Squared any leak and contamination risks, and reduces include upgraded mechanical and ventilations which will assist facilitating a transition into a air pollution and greenhouse gas (GHG) emis- systems, lighting upgrades, a new craft room virtual volunteer portal which is entirely web- sions. GHG emission reductions from this proj- and seating area, and a new administration based and platform friendly. ect are approximately 88 tonnes each year. area for special needs programs.
The Island Savings Centre has enjoyed a suc- TOWN OF LADYSMITH cessful introduction to licensed beverage Ladysmith hosted the Vancouver Whitecaps service in arena dressing rooms through the on August 13 and 14 for events including lacrosse season, and is looking forward to con- free youth soccer clinics as part of the “Hope tinuing and expanding the service through the and Health” event at the stunning Ladysmith hockey season. Amphitheatre and Forrest Field, a destination turf field drawing accolades from near and far. TOWN OF COMOX Ashleigh McIvor (Olympic Gold ski-cross winner The Comox Community Centre has been voted at Vancouver 2010) and Vancouver Whitecaps as having the “Best Fitness Centre in Vancouver FC captain Jay DeMerit shared stories about Island” in the 2013 BC’s Best People’s Choice success in sports and the value of perseverance;
0222 RECREATIONRECREATION & PARKS& PARKS BC BC MAGAZINE MAGAZINE BCRPA REGIONAL ROUNDUPS
Cowichan, Stz’uminus, and Snuneymeux First the Tire Stewardship of BC to assist with the re- Sooke will have the opportunity to learn impor- Nations welcomed 300 participants from 10 First placement of the flooring in the arena lobby in tant water survival skills. Nations, towns, and cities throughout Vancouver Arena A. The flooring is made up of recycled tires. Island, who enjoyed the chance to scrimmage The arena lobby also underwent an upgrade to WEST SHORE PARKS & RECREATION SOCIETY with their favourite Whitecaps players! include new bulletin boards, new seating, new Serving the City of Colwood, the City of Langford, paint and a new Plasma TV. Peninsula Minor the District of Highlands, the District of Ladysmith Parks, Recreation & Culture recently Hockey sponsored $5,000 towards the lobby up- Metchosin, the Town of View Royal and the re-roofed the heritage “Aggie Hall” and were grades. Juan De Fuca Electoral District amazed to find that the roof was a “heritage roof” too! It’s amazing what contractors might Panorama Recreation received $177,000 in fund- It was a summer of music, fitness and fun on the find when they take off the top layer! ing secured through Western Economic Diversifi- Westshore. The summer kicked off with a com- cation Canada from their Community Infrastruc- munity event, Movies On the Hill Event featuring RECREATION OAK BAY ture Improvement Fund (CIIF) to upgrade the fire “The Goonies”. The community came out to this Online registration is now available for program suppression system. Having this work performed retro film and supported the fundraising efforts registration and has been enthusiastically re- will bring the entire Panorama Recreation Centre for the inclusive playground soon to be installed ceived by patrons. At the Oak Bay Recreation up to the requirements of NFPA – 13, Standard on the Juan De Fuca low field site. Centre new turnstiles with scanners have been for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems. installed to better control access and improve Summer camps were in full swing with new pro- statistics collection. DISTRICT OF SAANICH grams such as Kinder camp, Summer Camp out, A new community garden is being explored with Fizz Muck, Bubbles & Goo. Every corner of our The preparation for the replacement of the 4 two local organizations. This would be the first 108 acre property had campers exploring. The court tennis bubble skin is underway. new community garden in Saanich in approxi- Roving Activity Van stopped at 5 different parks mately 20 years. New accessibility features have each week and provided free activities on a drop The Henderson Recreation Centre underwent an been installed in Cadboro Gyro Park allowing in bases. expansion which was completed in June. The im- wheelchair access right onto the beach. A previ- provements include an expanded fitness studio ous stairway has been replaced with a ramp and In July West Shore Parks and Recreation once with more program space and stretching area, a Mobi-Mat® RecPath™ has been installed to again “Rocked the Shores” on July 13th and improved free space in the gymnasium, expan- provide a flexible yet stable surface for visitors 14th. 10,000 spectators a day converged on the sion and upgrades to program areas, updated with mobility challenges. lower playing fields that “Atomique Productions” washroom facilities and upgrades to the build- had turned into a concert venue for the ages! ings heating and weather proofing systems. This Energy efficient lighting projects have been un- Performances by headliners City and Colour and 830 square foot expansion was made possible dertaken at the Pearkes Recreation Centre and Weezer as well as Matthew Good, Sam Roberts, thanks to a recreation infrastructure grant of Saanich Commonwealth Place. Mother Mother, Sheep Dogs, Awolnation, 54-40, $373,718 from the Ministry of Community, Sport Jimmy Eat World and Vince Vaccaro to name a and Cultural Development. SOOKE AND ELECTORAL AREA PARKS AND few had the all ages crowd enjoying every minute RECREATION COMMISSION of the concert. PENINSULA RECREATION COMMISSION (SEAPARC) Serving the communities of Sooke (Panorama Recreation) Serving the and Juan de Fuca Electoral Area. August saw the Victoria Shamrocks post season municipalities of Sidney, North Saanich, continue as they made it to the second round of and Central Saanich. SEAPARC recently completed a community the WLA playoffs vs. Langley Thunder. The win- recreation survey. Staff is currently analyzing ner of the Western Lacrosse Association will host Panorama Recreation recently introduced a new the data to determine priorities with respect the winner of the Ontario Lacrosse Association in annual pass option for any youth 18 years and to community recreation amenities. With this the Mann Cup. Go Shamrocks! under at a cost of $59. This is less than $5 per survey, SEAPARC intends to better understand month! Panorama is excited to announce this bold the area’s demographics and determine public We wrapped up the summer with a Fall Fitness effort to improve community health (including support for recreation infrastructure and week featuring free demo classes from Septem- childhood obesity) and make recreation more program services. ber 3-9 highlighting fitness programs such as affordable and accessible for families and youth. Stroller fit, Stroller spin, Zumba fitness, yoga, Youth will have unlimited access to drop-in SEAPARC will be partnering with the Sooke Youth TRX suspension training and the No excuses sessions such as swimming, skating and fitness Council to expand programming opportunities in program. classes. In addition, the Annual Youth Pass will the community. The joint effort will include proj- also provide discounts on registered programs. ects such as leadership and skills development We are enjoying fall as we launch our second year workshops for youth. of Nature Preschool, community harvest celebra- The Arena complex at Panorama Recreation has tions and back to school programing. undergone some upgrades. Arena B received new SEAPARC is excited to be a recipient of the Life bleacher seating, replacing the original seating Saving Society’s Swim to Survive School Grant from 1977. A $28,000 grant was awarded from application. A total of 191 grade 3 students in
FALL 2013 23 BCRPA Your partner in REGIONAL ROUNDUPS aquatic trends
minimum. During four classes young chefs will • CARIBOO learn about kitchen and food safety, cooking terms, measurements and utensils. The United Aqua trampoline Way’s, Success by Six, is sponsoring a free Denise Skarra Saturday Tumble and Play program for children 250-392-8485 9 months – 5 years of age at one of the local [email protected] elementary school gyms. This parent and tot playtime will offer learning opportunities for bouncing, catching, sliding, racing and The Cariboo Regional District and City of Wil- tumbling. Sports equipment, ride-on toys and liams Lake are now one step closer to moving tumbling mats will be available at no cost to forward in principle for an $11.3 million reno- participants. This program targets working vation, and addition, to the Sam Ketcham Pool parents who are looking for some Saturday morning bonding time. in the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex in Williams Lake. The project has been referred The City and CRD have secured over $24.6 m Acquapole to a Pool Finance Committee which will report toward the planned $30 m Multi-Centre proj- back on recommendations for a referendum to ect, including approval to borrow up to $15 m fund the project. The design would see the ex- as a result of a successful 2008 referendum. isting pool tank refurbished and updated and a The proposed facility will include a 1600 seat significant component of leisure water added, spectator arena and a 450 seat performing arts as well as a large fitness and program space, theatre and will be located in the downtown and upgrades of all major mechanical systems area adjacent to the existing Twin Arenas facil- for the pool and associated areas. ity. A local fundraising committee continues to work hard and has secured approximately $1.6 m Williams Lake and area’s “Ride the Cariboo” toward the project through corporate and local mountain bike promotion continues to go strong fundraising. The referendum will expire in De- Aqua bike and show great results resulting in huge in- cember 2013. crease in traffic to the Cariboo Mountain biking websites and riding areas. This year once again PRINCE GEORGE saw a billboard placed on the Sea to Sky corridor Civic Plaza Enhancement Project Kicks Off: during the Crankworx Mountain Bike Festival Plaza to be Transformed in Preparation for the and a significant online campaign on PinkBike, 2015 CWG’s and City’s 100th Anniversary over 700 one of the largest mountain bike websites in the sold across world. A new addition this year is the creation of Canada As part of the City of Prince George’s bid to host 5 videos featuring the communities in the Cari- the 2015 Canada Winter Games the City com- boo and the mountain biking opportunities in mitted to enhancing the Prince George Civic each. These professionally shot and produced Plaza which will be the main gathering place videos will be the cornerstone of marketing ef- for athletes, coaches, officials, residents and forts over the next few years for mountain biking guests during the two weeks of the games. The in the Cariboo area. enhancement will see the plaza transformed to meet the requirements of the games, celebra- The Cariboo Memorial Complex is now accepting tions associated with the City’s 100th Anniver- Online Registration through Active Network. sary, and as a permanent legacy to the citizens Most programs can be accessed online and of Prince George. The design consulting com- we are hoping the public will embrace this new pany of VDZ & Associates have been awarded registration option. “Let me in the Kitchen” is the contract with work already underway with a new after school cooking class for children stakeholder meetings and preliminary concep- 514 948-4878 or 1 800 935-4878 [email protected] / www.aquam.com between 8 and 12 years. Save On Foods has tual design discussions. The project is expected sponsored this program to keep costs to a to be completed in early fall 2014.
0224 RECREATIONRECREATION & PARKS& PARKS BC BC MAGAZINE MAGAZINE BCRPA EVENTS & MEETINGS PLANNER 2013
Pool Operator Courses focusing on swimming pool operations 2013 Ripple Effects Aquatic Workshop and maintenance. October 24-25, 2013 • Level 1 November 16 & 17, 2013 Hilton Metrotown Hotel, Burnaby, BC Sungod Aquatic Centre, Delta Visit: bcrpa.bc.ca/recreation-and-parks/provincial-conferences • Level 1 November 22 & 23, 2013 Sungod Aquatic Centre, Delta • Level 1 November 30 & December 1, 2013 2014 Parks and Grounds Spring Training City of Port Coquitlam February 5-6, 2014 Visit: bcrpa.bc.ca/recreation_parks/aquatics/ PoolOperators_TrainingSchedule Hilton Metrotown Hotel, Burnaby, BC Visit: bcrpa.bc.ca/recreation_parks/parks/spring_training.htm MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition…. Do it!) Symposium 2014 Together with the YMCA of Greater Vancouver, April 23-25, 2014 and with support from the Childhood Obesity Delta Grand Okanagan Resort and Conference Centre. Kelowna, BC. Foundation, the BCRPA is delivering MEND Visit: bcrpa.bc.ca/training-symposium/symposium-2014 (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition...Do it!), an interna- tionally acclaimed program aimed at improving children’s physical activity levels, nutrition and self-esteem in communities across BC. See the E-Learning – Learn anywhere, BCRPA website www.bcrpa.bc.ca/recreation- Ongoing through 2013 and-parks/mend or call Noelle Virtue, MEND around BC: anytime – what is best for you? Regional Coordinator at 604-629-0965 ext. 256. The BCRPA is pleased to offer learning opportu- CPRA/CPSI Canadian nities in an online format. You can take courses whenever and wherever is most convenient to Parks & Recreation Risk Certified Playground Inspector you. And, if you have to stop part way through a Management Course Certification course, you can come back later and just pick Most risk management training is focused on Visit: cpra.ca/main.php?action=cms. up where you left off! You will find the courses “buy insurance and avoid risk.” This often leads trainPlaySafety very easy to follow with lots of new tools to to missed recreation benefits due to exaggerat- apply in your workplace.The BCRPA’s new online ed liability fears. The curriculum in this course learning site currently features three courses: will provide the education and hands on train- HIGH FIVE® • Vulnerable Populations (free until ing necessary for parks and recreation staff to Quality assurance standard for organizations March 2014) is designed to help front deal with the majority of risk issues that their delivering recreation & sport programs for line leaders work more effectively with departments might experience. bcrpa.bc.ca/ children Ages 6-12. children who may come from a variety parks-and-recreation-risk-management Visit: bcrpa.bc.ca/recreation_parks/ of vulnerable groups. The course helps recreation/high_five/training.htm identify vulnerabilities and how to best Elsewhere: navigate them. • Engaging the Hard to Reach is designed ParticipACTION Teen Challenge PoolSafe BC to help recreation staff find more effective Pool staff training to recognize, evaluate & A national physical activity program created to ways to engage low income populations in get youth moving. Registered Community Host control workplace hazards. recreation activities Visit: bcrpa.bc.ca/recreation_parks/aquatics/ Organizations (CHOs) are eligible to apply for • Social Inclusion is designed to support up to $250 to support a one-time event and poolsafe.htm programmers in being more effective up to $500 to support an ongoing program at making their programs more socially (4 weeks or longer for a minimum of 30 minutes Playground Safety Awareness inclusive. per week). Funds can be used to support facility use, transportation costs, nutrition, coaching or Visit: bcrpa.bc.ca/recreation_parks/parks/ Get more information at elearn.bcrpa.bc.ca equipment. To learn more about Teen Challenge, PlaygroundSafetyTraining and watch for the new Shared Use Agreement or to submit a grant application. course coming online in November, 2013. Visit: participaction.com/teen-challenge/
FALL 2013 25 EXPLORE EXPAND MORE THAN 300 FITNESS LEADERS ATTENDED THE BCRPA’S ANNUAL FITNESS CONFERENCE THIS YEAR EXCEL AT CAPILANO UNIVERSITY IN NORTH VANCOUVER.
0226 RECREATIONRECREATION & PARKS& PARKS BC BC MAGAZINE MAGAZINE BCRPA FITNESS LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENTS
THE BCRPA 2013 FITNESS LEADERSHIP AWARD RECIPIENTS WERE RECOGNIZED AND CONGRATULATED AT AN AWARD CEREMONY AT BCFIT ‘13
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: KIM MAGNAN - FITNESS LEADER OF THE YEAR; SUZANNE STRUTT - CEO, BCRPA; CHAD BENSON - EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR; JAIMEE STOKES NELSON - PROGRAM DIRECTOR / MANAGER OF THE YEAR.
FALL 2013 27 BCRPA CORPORATE MEMBERS
A2Z Arena Products Ltd. Habitat Systems Inc. Suttle Recreation www.a2zarenaproducts.com www.habitat-systems.com www.suttle-recreation.com
Advantage Sport Harvest Swing Time Distributors Ltd. www.advantagesport.com www.harvestpower.com/bc swingtimedistributors.com
AME Consulting Group Ltd. HCMA Hughes Condon Sybertech Waste Reduction Ltd. www.amegroup.ca Marler Architects www.swrl.com www.hcma.ca AQUAM Aquatic Specialist Inc. Technogym The Wellness Company www.aquam.com Kasian Architecture Interior www.technogym.com Design and Planning Ltd. AstroTurf West Distributors Ltd. www.kasian.com Terralink Horticulture Inc. www.astroturf.com www.store.tlhort.com Marathon Surfaces Inc. Catherine Berris www.marathonsurfaces.com The JF Group www.cbainc.bc.ca Mastercraft Projects Unitech Construction CEI Architecture www.mastercraftprojects.ca Management Ltd. Planning Interiors www.unitechcm.ca www.ceiarchitecture.com Musco Sports Lighting www.musco.com Vic Davies Architect Ltd. Centaur Products Inc. vda.ca www.centaurproducts.com Nats Nursery www.natsnursery.com Water Technology Inc. CLM Distribution Inc. www.wtiworld.com www.tabex.com NCAquatics www.ncaquatics.com Waterkind Irrigation Consulting Colored Shale Products Inc. Services Ltd. www.coloredshale.com PBK Architects Inc. www.pbkarchitectsinc.com www.waterkind.ca Curtis Personalized Health Management Ltd. Professional Environmental WildPlay Element Parks playwellwin.com Recreation Consultants Ltd. www.wildplay.com (PERC) DB Perks & Associates Ltd. www.perconline.com Wishbone Site Furnishings www.commercialaquaticsupplies.com www.wishboneltd.com R.F. Binnie & Associates Don Hunter Consulting www.binnie.com YUYANG DNU Co. Ltd. www.brite-lite.com Durante Kreuk Ltd. Recreation Excellence www.dkl.bc.ca www.recreationexcellence.com INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Elemental Architecture RecTec Industries Inc. ERV Parent Group 03 and Interiors Inc. www.rectecindustries.com Urban Systems 17 eaii.ca Hughes Condon Marler Architects 18 Schoolhouse Products Inc. Binnie & Associates 18 Gary Young Associates www.schoolhouseproducts.com HortEducationBC 21 Aquam Aquatic Specialist 24 Goodbye Graffiti Splashables Inc. DB Perks & Associates 29 www.goodbyegraffiti.com splashables.com Centaur Products OBC
0228 RECREATIONRECREATION & PARKS& PARKS BC BC MAGAZINE MAGAZINE Filter room to deck level supplies, contact us for pricing and information.
Serving public pools since 1974.
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Phone: 604-980-2812 • Fax: 604-980-0196 • Toll free: 1-800-663-5905 • www.commercialaquaticsupplies.com The BCRPA has created a dynamic tool to help you and your colleagues come together to get more done. The New BCRPA Collaboration Site Connect with people from all areas of recreation, parks, culture and is open for you 24/7 and it’s so EASY to use. community sport. The Collaboration Site has six topic areas:
Just go to collaboration.bcrpa.bc.ca and get started – Discussions networking, exploring hot topics, searching for industry Best-Practices information, sharing documents, collaborating on ideas and projects, learning about grant opportunities, Research & Reports discussing best practices and more. Grants Policies Get connected today. Related Organizations The conversation has already begun…
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