Awards Booklet-FINAL-v.2

Table of Contents:

About the URPA Awards…………………………………………………...……………………….2
URPA Board of Directors…………………………………………………………………………….3
Leadership Academy………………………………………………………………………………….4
Lifetime Achievement…………………………………………………………………………..5—6
Outstanding Citizen Advocate / Volunteer………………………………………………...7
Outstanding Vendor / Sponsor…………………………………………………………………..8
Outstanding Adaptive Program…………………………………………………………….8—9
Outstanding Program……………………………………………………………………….10—14
Outstanding Facility...……………………………………………………………………….16—18
Innovation of the Year………………………………………………………………….….19—20
Conservation & Sustainability………………………………………………………………….21
Outstanding Professionals………………………………………………………………..22—25

Young Professional
Academic
Recreation
Aquatics
Executive
Professional Development Scholarships…..……………………………………...26—27
Outstanding Departments………………………………………………………………..28—30
Class I
Class II
Class III

2

About the URPA Awards:

The purpose of the Awards Program is for the recognition of the Utah Recreation & Parks Association (URPA)
members for exceptional effort or contribution in the field of Parks, Recreation, Leisure
and Academics.
All current and honorary URPA members may submit one or more nominations for consideration.
A committee comprised of URPA Past Presidents meet as part of the Award Selection Committee to
review and select winners from established categories. Awards are presented at the annual Utah
Recreation and Parks Association Conference held in March.
Nominations are received in several categories to recognize individuals, facilities, programs
and departments.
The categories include the following:

Lifetime Achievement
Outstanding Citizen Advocate/Volunteer
Vendor / Sponsor of the Year
Outstanding Adaptive Program
Outstanding Program
Outstanding Facility
Innovation of the Year
Conservation & Sustainability
Outstanding Professional:

Young Professional
Academic
Parks
Recreation
Aquatics
Executive
Outstanding Department:
Class I (under 15,000 pop.)
Class II (15,000 - 50,000 pop.)
Class III (over 50,000 pop.)
Professional Scholarships:
Great Western Park & Playground
Steve and Georgia Carpenter
Fred and Judy Tamagawa

32

Board of Directors

Current Board Members that will Outgoing Board Members that have
continue serving completed their term

Tyler Wilkins President Derric Rykert Past President
Curtis Dickson President-Elect Kathy Olsen Aquatics Rep.
LeeAnn Powell Executive Director Linda Weeks Health & Wellness Rep.
Riley Astill Executive Treasurer Heather Todd Young Professional Rep.
Linda Weeks Executive Secretary Brian Hill Education Rep.
Clint Warnick Administrative Rep. Aspen Dalton Student Rep.
Laurie Stringham Citizen Rep. Reed Price Parks Rep.
Brent Tippets Corporate Rep. Karen Yocum Cemetery Rep.
Hannah Silvey Recreation Rep. Myrna Clark Region 2 Rep.
Cory Haddock Region 1 Rep. Benjamin Rae Region 4 Rep.
Shawn Whitaker Region 3 Rep. Bryce King Conference Chair
Jason Allen State Rep. Kevin Schmidt Auction Chair
Kristen Sproul Adaptive Recreation Rep. Emily Gillingwater Auction Chair
Michele McMillan Track & Field Rep.
Nancy Day Leadership Academy

Past President Award Selection Committee

Kristin Riker Nancy Day Dan Harrison Patti Hansen LeeAnn Powell
Jay Dee Nielsen Kevin Bybee Russ Akina Paul Jamison Dale Robinson
Karl Teemant Mark Lindsay Wayne Oberg Dean Allen Derric Rykert

34

Leadership Academy

Congratulations 2018-2019
URPA Leadership Academy Graduates

Sam Braegger Utah Lake Commission
Ryan Brough West Valley City Parks & Recreation
Rhett Gardiner West Valley City Parks & Recreation
Kelly Isleib Snyderville Basin Recreation District
Jeffrey Johnson Salt Lake County Parks & Recreation
Kristen MacGregor Lehi City Recreation
Michele McMillan Layton City Parks & Recreation
Leisl Morris Murray City Parks & Recreation
Clayton Preston West Valley City Parks & Recreation
Ezra Silva Clearfield City Parks & Recreation
Haley Turner South Davis Recreation Center
Jeremy Vanderelburg West Valley City Parks & Recreation
Ammon Wilks West Valley City Parks & Recreation
Spencer Winzenried Clearfield City Parks & Recreation

Welcome 2019-2020
URPA Leadership Academy Participants

Lizie Allen South Davis Recreation Center
Lizzy Badger Roy City Recreation
Macy Baker Sandy City Recreation
Michael Barlow Nephi City Recreation
Audrey Bell Kearns Oquirhh Park Fitness Center
Tyler Hill Clearfield City Parks & Recreation
Charlee Linford Lehi City Recreation
Michaela Maughan Smithfield Recreation
Tyler Pace Cottonwood Heights Parks & Recreation
Taylor Smith Salt Lake County Parks & Recreation
Aaron Stinson Salt Lake County Parks & Recreation
Brian Vawdrey Vineyard City Recreation

54

Lifetime Achievement Award

Pat Bergseng Clearfield City

Pat Bergseng, CPRP, has worked in the recreation field
since age 19, starting her career as a lifeguard with Salt
Lake County and retiring with distinction as Clearfield
City’s Recreation Manager in 2018. Pat tirelessly served
the community of Clearfield for 28 years, jumpstarting
many new programs, keeping the division afloat during
lean times, and always keeping her co-workers’ spirits
up with her unforgettable personality. She is a Utah na-
tive, born and raised in SLC and is a die-hard Ute fan.
Pat enjoys keeping active in her free time, skiing, and
spending time with her grandchildren and family.

Phil Murray Ephraim City

Phil Murray has been the face of recreation for Sanpete County for many
years and has been involved in all aspects of recreation. No job was beneath
Phil and he did whatever was needed. He managed the Ephraim City Indoor
pool, was the Aquatics Director for Snow College, taught swimming classes,
coached baseball and softball, and ran the Snow College Intramural program.
He was instrumental in organizing youth football, baseball and softball
leagues in Sanpete County and served in various capacities with those
leagues over the years. As the Ephraim City Recreation Director, he worked
hard to build up the existing programs and add additional opportunities for
both youth and adults. Perhaps the best example of his outstanding accom-
plishments in the field of Parks and Recreation can be found in his personal
life. Phil has coached each one of his own boys and his daughter as well as
many of his grandchildren. He, along with his wife Vickie, are their most avid
supporters and number-one fans.

56

Lifetime Achievement Award

Donna Russell Clearfield City

Donna Russell has worked in the aquatic and recreation field
since high school, starting her career as a lifeguard in California
and retiring with distinction as the Clearfield Aquatic and Fitness
Center Manager in 2018. Donna served the community of Clear-
field for 19 years, creating new programs, opening a state of the
art facility, and creating an unforgettable culture that kept em-
ployees and patrons around for years. Donna has a passion for
aquatics and safety and has taught us all that swim lessons save
lives. She has a love of employee development and has trained
thousands of youth in their first jobs, mentoring them to move on
and fulfill their career and life goals. In retirement Donna has be-
come the “recreation coordinator” for all her friends and peers. If
not at a Disney Resort with her family, she can often be found
hiking, biking, and participating in numerous pickleball leagues.

76

Outstanding Citizen / Volunteer Award

Dimple Dell Preservation Committee

The Dimple Dell Preservation Community is a grass
roots citizen action committee dedicated to main-
taining Dimple Dell Regional Park in Sandy, Utah, as
a natural, undeveloped urban wilderness area. The
group’s April 2018 Earth Day cleanup brought out
over 500 volunteers, corporate sponsors, and sus-
tainability groups who converged on Dimple Dell for
the largest one-day volunteer event in Sandy City
history. The Dimple Dell Preservation Community
executive committee wishes to commend the work
of the Salt Lake County Parks Department, especial-
ly its dedicated Dimple Dell Park staff who serve as
the first responders to the needs of our beloved park. We are grateful to our local residents and civic lead-
ers who have joined with us to maintain the park in its natural, undeveloped state so future generations
can enjoy the experience of this treasured urban wilderness beauty, just as much as we do today.

Joyce Bangerter

When we think of a good volunteer our mind often travels to thoughts of
a young man helping an elderly woman cross the street. We would never
imagine that person to be an eighty-three-year-old, dainty little woman
teaching twice a week an exercise class. As we encounter individuals who
touch lives and help us to see the good in the world, we realize it is not
the acts of the person that we see, but the measure of love that they
give. Joyce Bangerter is that volunteer who shares her love and energetic
voice with the Seniors at the Harman Recreation Center. Joyce has taught
free senior exercise classes, twice weekly, for six years. Joyce was attend-
ing an exercise class at the Harman Senior Recreation Center when it was
announced that the class would no longer be offered. The participants
knew the importance of keeping seniors moving, so Joyce volunteered to teach the class. She has an impres-
sive ability to make new seniors feel like old friends and works to involve everyone by finding an exercise
that meets their ability level. With her contagious personality and her great example, she has a large group
of loyal seniors following her through exercise moves to music of the 60's & 70's.

78

Outstanding Vendor / Sponsor Award

Leon & Arline Harman Foundation

Because of the generosity of Pete and Arline Harman, the West Valley City
senior community has access to programs that enhance dignity, support inde-
pendence, encourage community involvement and stimulate physical, mental
and emotional well-being. Pete Harman was raised in West Valley City and be-
came a founder of the Kentucky Fried Chicken franchise. In 1989, Pete pur-
chased and donated his childhood home to West Valley City. The Harman Sen-
ior Recreation Center was created as part of West Valley City Parks & Recrea-
tion. This support has continued through monetary donations to the senior
center operations and programming, additional capital for improvements and
equipment, and sponsorship of annual community events.

Outstanding Adaptive Program

Sled Hockey Salt Lake County P & R

The Salt Lake County Sled Hockey program has been
a success because of the administrative support, and
participant dedication that it required to grow and
flourish during it's beginning stages. The program
coordinator and facility director have allowed con-
sistent scheduled ice time, employees, and equip-
ment storage that could easily be taken by other
popular able- bodied sports. Their understanding of
the crucial need this sport has for it's population is
the only reason it has been able to be successful.
This program is unique in that is allows family mem-
bers to play side by side. Many families who have a loved one with a disability either have to exclude that
member of the family, or eliminate competitive sports from their activities. This inclusive sport allows ath-
letes of varying abilities to play on the same level with the use of it's adaptive equipment. Providing a Para-
lympic sport at a community recreation level builds the sport and allows athletes opportunities to develop
skills that can carry them on to competitive levels. There is hope that this can be an example of how other
community centers can begin similar programs across our state and hopefully nation-wide.

98

Outstanding Adaptive Program

Veterans Golf League West Valley City P & R

The West Valley City Veterans Golf League has made
important inroads in addressing the specific and critical
needs of Veterans, Active Duty Military, and their fami-
lies in our community. Through the medium of golf and
the environment created by our courses and staff, an
opportunity for camaraderie, connections, healing, and
healthy active living has been made available to these
our heroes. This discounted league offers an adaptive
golf cart, free club rentals, and a free closing social and
dinner. The second year of play in 2018 saw double the
registered players from year one (including a supported
group of needy and chronically homeless veterans), an
extended league season, four free clinics added, and
free equipment donated to individuals.

Adaptive Wednesday Night Classes Salt Lake County P & R

The Salt Lake County Adaptive Wednesday Night Classes
program started in 2018 and has been a great success from
the beginning. The program takes place on Wednesday
nights at Northwest Recreation Center. Adults with disabili-
ties ages 18 and up are given the opportunity to choose
from six different recreation classes, participating in two
one-hour classes each Wednesday. Class options include
wood crafts, cooking, martial arts, swimming, paper making,
and karaoke. Qualified staff specifically trained to work with
individuals with disabilities provide the instruction and par-
ticipants have a great time socializing and learning new skills
each week. Participants experience many benefits from the
program: they are able to increase their independence by
selecting which classes they want to take, they build their recreation skills, they use public transit to attend
the program which increases independence and knowledge of community recreation options, and they build
their social networks and friendships. Partnerships in the community and donations of supplies help to keep
the program running at a low cost. The program has fulfilled a need in the disability community that gives
participants many opportunities to make choices and an avenue to express themselves in unique ways.

910

Outstanding Program

The Teen Community Club Snyderville Basin Recreation

The Teen Community Club is a fresh new way to
get young teens involved in our community, get
them excited to be part of a caring team, and
teach them important life skills for their future.
The Teen Community Club is a program for teens
ages 12-17 to learn about community involve-
ment, volunteering, mentoring and building
friendships. Members of the Teen Community
club can participate in training such as
babysitting, sports officiating, camp counselors
and community events. This club partners with
local organizations and businesses to provide a
variety of services to members of the communi-
ty.

Music in Me Farmington P & R

Music in Me is a singing group for kids ages 3-11 to develop music and performance skills, build confidence,
and spread positive messages through song both vocally and instrumental. This 10 week program is full of
activities to develop rhythm, steady beat, pitch and vocal tonality. Through performing, these young partic-
ipants not only learn teamwork, enhance friendships but they strengthen their ability to communicate
effectively through eye contact, pronunciation and body language. Areas of growth that will continue to
benefit these young participants through their entire life.

11 10

Outstanding Program

Rookie League Salt Lake County P & R

Salt Lake County Rookie League is designed to teach young par-
ticipants 'HOW' to play Soccer, T-Ball and Basketball. More than
just a clinic, this program combines clinics and drills with scrim-
mages and games to teach rules, help participants develop prop-
er techniques and grow their basic skill development in a fun,
team environment. Participants are placed on teams, like a regu-
lar league, but sessions are devoted to staff run clinics, followed
by scrimmages, where players can practice the skills they just
learned in a game-like environment. This staff-led program is al-
so helping train volunteer parents how to coach and gives both
players and parents more confidence in a fun environment. In-
stead of a trophy, each participant is given a ball for their respec-
tive sport at the beginning of the season. In 2018, Salt Lake
County gave out over 10,000 soccer balls and over 5,000 basket-

Chess South Salt Lake City Recreation

Chess is a strategy game that anyone and every-
one can play. We offer the program for Pre-
kindergarten to 12th graders. The objective of
the program mingles the active sport minded and
the studious book worm type of students on a
level playing field so to speak. This program is
unique in that this is the only non-rated youth
chess tournament currently in the state of Utah.
It uses all ability skill level participants. It is the
only program you will find a beginner playing a
well-seasoned, sometimes grandmaster player.
The South Salt Lake Chess Tournament is held
once a year but the popularity of chess has led to
the expansion of 7 community afterschool cen-
ters in the city.

1112

Outstanding Program

Mission Slim Possible Riverton City Recreation

This program is a 9-week weight loss program that is open to the residents and surrounding areas of River-
ton City. Participants pay a fee of $30.00 to participate. The goal is to create an opportunity to help people
change their lifestyle to a healthier diet and exercise. The participants are required to weigh-in each week
at the recreation office. After the weight-ins all the data is put into a spreadsheet that calculates their per-
centage lost for the week. We give prizes to weekly winners (or losers) and there are cash prizes at the end
of the 9 weeks. Cash prizes range from $300.00 - $500.00 and are given in four categories. Best overall,
best male, best female, and most weight lost. We
also give prizes to those participants that do not
miss any weight-ins and if they complete the pro-
gram, and not miss more than three weigh-ins,
they get a free entry into our Riverton Half Mara-
thon/5K.

Trick or Treat Night Sandy City P & R

This was our first year offering a free night of trick or treating to the community. We invited classic cars to
come and be a part of a car show and pass out candy. We had an amazing DJ who played awesome music
all night. We had a carved pumpkin contest, costume contest for Adults, Kids, & Pets. We anticipated about
100-300 people to show up and bought $4,000 worth of candy. We easily saw 500 people and had to make
3 more trips to buy more candy for the demand of trick or treaters in attendance. Walmart donated candy,
but for the most part this event was all city dept. running. We had the fire and police dept. there passing
out candy out of their cruisers and engine.

13 12

Outstanding Program

Funshine Early Learning Academy Pleasant Grove City

The Funshine Early Learning Center was founded
over 30 years ago. From its humble beginnings it is a
program that focuses on the development of young
minds. While some of our current staff members
have kids in the program, many of them also went
through the program as kids. Each year people from
all over Utah County line up starting at 4 am for one
of the 300 class spots. This highly-demanded pro-
gram doesn't lose sight that it's all about the chil-
dren. From small class sizes to amazing field trips, our
exceptional staff provides these children with the
tools they need to succeed.

Corral Cliffs After School Program St. George City

Coral Cliffs After School Program is not just a place for babysitting children each day after school...it is a
place where children learn life skills to help them succeed. From tutoring help, to community involvement,
to feeling like they are a part of a family, the Coral Cliffs After School Program helps children learn skills to
reach their full potential. Children in the program
are loved by every staff member; however, they are
pushed and tested so they know they are important
and can be successful in school and in life. The after-
school staff and the school staff have proven that
two different organizations can work together to-
wards a common goal of helping our future genera-
tion gain academic, social and interpersonal skill sets
in order to succeed in life. The Coral Cliffs After
School Program gives children a safe place to learn,
grow and be loved all the while under the supervi-
sion of kind and caring staff members and communi-
ty volunteers.

1314

Outstanding Program

Cottonwood Heights Aquatic Team Cottonwood Heights

Cottonwood Heights Aquatics Tea m, through continu-
ous training for their coaches both locally and national-
ly, provides a program for all swimmers to be able to
reach their fullest potential. There are no limits when
you participate on CHAT. The program offers opportu-
nities to all that wish to participate. For many years, if
you were not able to afford being a part of our team,
you were not able to swim. Now, throughout the year,
the team and its members will raise money that is used
to help scholarship members and their families who
may not be able to afford being on the team at that
time. CHAT exists to not only produce the best and
fastest swimmers in the water, but to help build the
best, strongest and smartest swimmers out of the wa-
ter as well.

Herriman Howl Herriman City

The Herriman Howl is a revamped Halloween
event enjoyed by families of all ages in Herriman
that continues to grow tremendously each year.
The event is held at Crane Park where different
decorated stations greet the guests. This was the
second year of the Herriman Howl, which re-
placed the retired Pumpkin Festival. In 2016
there were approximately 250 who attending the
last Pumpkin Festival. Once Crane Park was com-
pleted, the first Herriman Howl brought approxi-
mately 2500 people. In 2018, the event was ex-
panded to the Northern end of the park and
items like a spook alley, businesses, reptile enter-
tainment and more attracted approximately 4000
people. For 2018, skeleton scenes were built
throughout the park done by different departments in the city. Other items included games, a Thriller Dance
Mob by the Arts Council, food trucks, and more. It is unique in how we work with local businesses to provide
the games and candy and we focus primarily on the decor. This event is a City favorite!

15 14

Outstanding Facility

Kearns Athletic Training & Event Center Kearns Oquirhh Rec. District

The Kearns Athlete Training and Event Center (KATEC) is
a unique, shared vision come to fruition. Opening in De-
cember 2018, it became a reality with the planning and
execution of several organizations - including the Utah
Olympic Legacy Foundation, Oquirrh Recreation and
Parks District, US Speedskating, Salt Lake County and the
State of Utah. The $13.9 million multi-use KATEC is a
model of cooperation and innovation between govern-
ment, non-profit and community partners that individual
stakeholders couldn't have achieved independently. The
KATEC connects the Kearns Oquirrh Park Fitness Center
and Olympic Oval into one large campus of 36,700 sq. ft.
with public and elite training opportunities. Creating both a recreational hub, as well as a community gath-
ering place, the KATEC facility will further initiatives to make Kearns a more cohesive and healthier place to
live and play.

J. Lynn Crane Park Herriman City

In 2007, the Herriman City Council, then led by Mayor James Lynn Crane, had a vision for a community gath-
ering place where residents could socialize and play. Ten years later, that vision became reality. J. Lynn
Crane Park officially opened September 22, 2017 and has been a
favorite of the community since. The impressive $8 million dollar,
5.5 acre park features an open air bandstand, a 12,000 square
foot playground, a pavilion, a large grass area, four fire pits, a ga-
zebo, the Herriman History Walk, an interactive river and splash
pad in warmer months and the Ice Ribbon at J. Lynn Crane Park
complete with ice skate rentals in the colder months. The park
has already become an amazing space for the expansion of City
Events, the playground is consistently packed with families, and
the Ice Ribbon has become an affordable wintertime activity for
families and groups. In addition to being popular with families,
the park has been well received with those conducting business
with the City at Herriman City Hall, which is adjacent to the park.

1516

Outstanding Facility

Operations Center Salt Lake County P & R

Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation's new Park Operations Center quadruples the capacity of the organi-
zation tasked with maintaining more than 100 parks and public spaces throughout the county. “Opening
this new building means Parks & Recreation will have more space to maintain and repair equipment; keep-
ing up with the needs of the hundreds of
parks and open spaces that county resi-
dents enjoy every day, “ said then-Mayor
now-U.S. Congressman Ben McAdams. The
$13 million dollar project – completed on
time and on budget – comprises three
structures: the 16,000 square foot admin-
istration building, a 36,000 square foot op-
erations warehouse and an impressive
truck wash facility. The site also has a fuel
island with five gas and diesel dispensers
and an additional fuel island to service the
operations warehouse.

Fieldhouse Expansion Snyderville Basin Recreation

Since 2004, the Fieldhouse has played a large part in defining the community athletic, fitness, and special event
needs. Over 14 years and 3 phases of construction, the Fieldhouse is now an 86,000 square foot community athletic
and fitness facility. Over several community needs assessments and surveys, we feel we have delivered a quality rec-
reation center based on the desires of the local residents. Phase 1 of the facility included an indoor multi-purpose ar-
tificial turf field, a small fitness room and an indoor running track. In 2013 we were awarded funding from a local Rec-

reation, Arts, and Parks grant to complete phase 2
which included: fitness studios for yoga, group cy-
cle, and aerobics/dance, and additional fitness
space for cardio equipment and free weights. The
final phase was complete in 2017 and added a mul-
ti-purpose gymnasium, additional fitness space,
and an outdoor 4 lane lap pool and spa. We feel
very fortunate to have a community that supports
recreation and fitness and we are proud to be able
to give them such a great facility at the Basin Recre-
ation Fieldhouse.

17 16

Outstanding Facility

Sports Park Spanish Fork P & R

The Spanish Fork Sports Park has been in the works for the past 20 years and was completed in 2018. There are 90
prime acres which include 10 lighted baseball/softball fields, 8 soccer fields (2 lighted), 6 lighted tennis courts,16
lighted pickleball courts, 2 large pavilions with commercial gas grills, 2 concessions buildings, 2 enclosed scorekeep-
er towers, playground, a trail system, an outdoor fitness station and a football/rugby/lacrosse multi-use field all in
one location. The mature trees and close proximity to
the Spanish Fork River create an aesthetically pleasing
environment for spectators and participants to enjoy
recreational and sporting events. This outstanding fa-
cility was only able to become a reality because of the
quality of people that were involved in making the
Sports Park what it is today. Each and every phase
happened as a result of individuals with vision and
amazing people making good decisions based on what
the city needed in the past and keeping up with cur-
rent trends today. This is also a tribute to those who

The High Adventure Pool Cottonwood Heights

The High Adventure Pool at the Cottonwood Heights
Recreation Center opened on Jun 16, 2018. It was fund-
ing was made possible with assistance of the Salt Lake
County ZAP Program and the 2016 General Obligation
Bond. It’s predecessor, a traditional diving pool, had
stood for over 37 years and had surpassed its life ex-
pectancy. The new pool’s increased size, additional
amenities, efficiencies, and enhanced program range
has made a tremendous impact for our community. The
diving structure combines both form and function with
a look that was designed to match the landscape of
Utah. The new diving structure, with additional safety
features, includes a 1 and 3 meter diving board, as well as, a 5 and 7.5 meter diving platform. The 317,000-
gallon pool can be utilized for swim meets, water polo, water aerobics, and has added six additional 25-
meter lap swimming lanes.

1718 16

Outstanding Facility

Springville Clyde Rec. Center Springville City

The Springville Clyde Rec Center (CRC) is a
66,000 square foot facility located in Springville,
UT. The facility is an upgrade from the previous
competition pool built during the mid 1900's for
patron and student use. There is an outdoor
pool, 25yd x 25meter competition pool, activity
pool, leisure flow river, child wader pool, spa
and two indoor slides that end in a splash pool.
There are two locker rooms, seven family
change rooms, two party rooms, 3 administra-
tion offices, a hardwood fitness studio, cycle stu-
dio, synthetic turf functional fitness studio, Child
Watch room, walk/jog track, gymnasium, con-
cessions, leisure lounge, 300 spectator seating,
free weight, cardio and selectorized fitness equipment zones. It was designed by VCBO Architecture and
constructed by Hogan et. al. There are over 10,000 members in the first 8 months of operation. This facility
serves as the Nebo School District swim team practice and meet pool. There are 107 fitness classes offered
weekly with an average of 60% attendance based on capacity in those fitness classes. The CRC hosts Tiny
Tots, Group & Private Swim Lessons, Zumbini, Master's Swim, Springville Seals Competitive Swim Team
classes for an additional fee along with each of the fitness classes which are included in a day pass or mem-
bership fee.

19 18

Innovation of the Year

Counselor in Training Park City Recreation

The goal of Park City Recreation's Counselor in Training (CIT) program is
to teach service, leadership and first-job skills to 13-15 year olds. The
CIT program is an educational program, with a curriculum designed to
develop the people and technical skills necessary to many first jobs,
particularly those in a recreational setting. The CIT program can lead to
leadership opportunities at school, in extracurricular activities and at
future jobs. We hope to instill a love of recreation beyond the partici-
pant perspective, so that teens and tweens seek out active job opportu-
nities in the recreation field. By teaching important skills such as com-
munication, leadership, empathy and culture we are developing future
professionals that can show up prepared for any job, knowing they
have the necessary skills to be successful. In turn, we are promoting
recreation as a valuable job experience that makes a difference in the
community, appealing to the new generation of staff.

Futsal Salt Lake County P & R

The futsal courts at Northwest Recreation Center are an
example of government and the private sector working
together to maximize community benefit. Salt Lake
County Parks and Recreation and ReAL Salt Lake Founda-
tion celebrated the opening of two futsal (mini-soccer
pitch) courts at Constitution Park on June 26, 2018.
Mayor Ben McAdams, ReAL Salt Lake owner DeLoy Han-
sen, team captain Kyle Beckerman and teammate Brooks
Lennon, Leo the Lion and other dignitaries joined youth
soccer enthusiasts from the neighborhood to open the
courts to the public. Futsal is a derivative of soccer
played on a basketball-sized hard court by two teams of five players each. Several international superstar
soccer players have credited futsal with helping them develop quick reflex and ball control skills. Salt Lake
County Parks and Recreation provided the land for the courts and RSL Foundation funded the cost of con-
struction in partnership with Rocky Mountain Power and Mobilite.

1920

Innovation of the Year

Sugar House Park Salt Lake County P & R

In 2003, the National Endowment for the Arts sponsored a competition to design a pedestrian corridor un-
der 1300 East at Sugar House Park. Internationally renowned environmental artist, Patricia Johanson, and
landscape architect, Steve Gilbert won this competition and have designed what is now known as “The
Draw at Sugar House.” On the west side of 1300 East is a paved, sunken “slot canyon” between tall retain-
ing walls that was inspired by one of the most famous landscapes in American history — Echo Canyon — a
natural conduit through the mountains, used for thousands of years by wildlife and Native Americans mi-
grating between the Rockies and the Great Ba-
sin. This armored “canyon” incorporates
Parley’s Trail, food, habitat and water for wild-
life, an historical narrative, and the floodwalls
and spillway for a dam that conveys floodwater
to Parley’s Creek in Hidden Hollow. The Sego
Lily Plaza, completed in 2018, is the artistic fo-
cal point of The Draw at Sugar House. On the
east side of the 1300 East, a sculptural “Sego
Lily” rises more than 30 feet above grassy
berms along the edge of Sugar House Park.

Racquetball Court Conversion West Valley City

We were able to rethink, design, and see to comple-
tion the conversion of an unused racquetball court
within our facility. We turned this underutilized space
into a functional fitness / high-intensity training area.
This decision has benefited our facility, our fitness pro-
gramming, and the evolving needs and wants of our
community. It has breathed life into our personal and
small group training specifically and thus brought in
additional revenue. We were able to make the most of
the available space through a bridge spanning the
short length of the court and a storage system along
the wall. With overhead and multi-height anchor
points and equipment to complement our cardio and
weight room areas, it has become a favorite for many.

21 20

Conservation & Sustainability

Traverse Ridge Conservation Easement Draper City

Opportunities like this to work on a project such as this only come around once in a career. While the ac-
tion of adopting a conservation easement is simple, the effect of the act will benefit us now as well as pro-
vide recreation opportunities for generations to come. It truly is a landmark achievement, one that Draper
City has received much praise and thanks for and will be a blessing and benefit to the Wasatch Front for
years to come. In 2012, Draper City purchased over 4,000 acres of land from Zions Bank. This was done
without a bond, without a tax increase or burden to residents, just a sure desire from Draper City to pur-
chase and preserve the land. In November of 2017, after months of hard work to get it ready, the Draper
City Council adopted the “Traverse Range Conservation Easement”. Salt Lake County will hold as a protec-
tion and this places an easement on 2,913 acres to keep it
as open space in its natural condition. After months of
working with Utah Open Lands, hearing desires of residents,
mapping the county, identifying resources, pre-existing con-
ditions, features and everything needed to create a baseline
document, it was ready for adoption. Draper Parks and Rec-
reation submitted it to the Draper City Council and it was
adopted unanimously. 2,913 acres are now preserved
where once was scheduled to be homes, stores, schools,
etc. This is preserved for leisure and recreation opportuni-
ties.

2122

Outstanding Professional-Young Professional

Katelyn Pedroza American Fork City Recreation

While young in her professional career, Kate Pedroza has been a city recre-
ation enthusiast her whole life. She has experience, education, and a pas-
sion for community recreation. Complete with a URPA leadership gradua-
tion, Certified as a Youth Sports Administrator with the National Alliance of
Youth Sports and a Bachelor’s Degree from BYU in Recreation Manage-
ment, Kate is a young professional with a bright future. She brings great vi-
sion and work ethic to American Fork Recreation and the State of Utah.
Kate is a great example of the professionals we need to further develop the
field of Parks and Recreation with great work ethic, a commitment to excel-
lence and a passion for the field.

Outstanding Professional-Academic

T. Grant Lewis Weber State University

T has been in the field of education for the past two decades. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor
of Outdoor and Community Recreation Education at Weber State university. Prior to his arrival at WSU, he
served as Assistant Professor and Coordinator of Outdoor Leadership and Education at Shenandoah Uni-
versity. He also spent three years as faculty member at Springfield College, five years as a K-12 health edu-
cator and six years as a camp counselor.

T received his PhD in education, with a focus in recreation, parks and
leisure studies from the University of Minnesota and his MEd in out-
door education administration from Georgia College & State University.

Since his arrival in Utah, T has made an incredible impact on URPA and
our members and future professionals. T has helped deliver impactful
sessions at conference, as part of our Leadership Academy and helped
our association set a strategic plan in 2017. You only have to be around
T for a couple of minutes to know that he brings incredible passion to
everything he does, including promoting our profession.

23 22

Outstanding Professional-Recreation

Megan Zollinger Salt Lake County P & R

Megan showed great leadership in her involvement with the National Transplant Games of America that
provided opportunities and education for the transplant communities nationwide. Also, strengthening the
transplant community in our State and supporting recreation as a
whole. Megan joins many committees and function teams involving
youth sports and provides exceptional programming and short term
project execution. She has helped with the rookie league basketball
curriculum and helped roll it out through the Officials Academy help-
ing the Recreation Division as a whole. Megan has quickly moved her
way to Program Manager and has found success in her field due to
her passion, hard work and easy going personality. She is smart and
looks for ways to better program efficiencies. She has already found a
program to manage our Corporate Games volunteers. Her strengths
focus on Leadership, program development and community outreach
and advocacy.

Taylor Abbegelen Salt Lake County P & R

Taylor started as a seasonal in 2009, working at Central City,
Northwest, Holladay Lions, and Sorenson Unity. She was hired as a
merit in 2013 at Dimple Dell, now working at Redwood Recreation
Center. Taylor genuinely cares about her patrons. Taylor works
hard to make her programs patron-friendly. She has exceptional
organizational skills and takes complete ownership of her pro-
grams, without being told to. She takes on any assignment given
without question or complaint. Taylor has taken part in County-
wide training for sports scheduling. She has this very humble air
about her, which makes her even more impressive and likeable.

2324

Outstanding Professional-Aquatics

Amber Milne Salt Lake County P & R

Amber Milne is a dedicated and enthusiastic force for excellence with Salt Lake
County aquatics. She works hard to develop progressive staff training techniques for
both supervisors and coordinators, and her organizational abilities have enabled her
to develop effective teaching strategies to train new swim instructors and instructor
trainers. She is a confident and positive role model for all of those around her in the
various duties she performs, and her leadership skills are highly sought after. She
continuously expands her knowledge of all things aquatics and recreation by attend-
ing conferences and workshops, and generously shares this knowledge with every-
one. Since beginning the role of Aquatics Program Manager with Salt Lake County,
Amber has moved aquatics forward by leaps and bounds. Some things Amber has
done to move us forward include: Recruiting fairs throughout Salt Lake County that
helped all 19 indoor and outdoor pools open their doors in 2019; certifying all Salt Lake County swim lesson
instructor trainers; certifying swim lesson instructors for half of Salt Lake County's outdoor pools; con-
sulting on the new Draper Aquatic Center; creating a presentation training; consulting with aquatics coordi-
nators and facility managers throughout the county; training Lifeguard instructors; and consulting with ad-
ministration on best aquatics practices and structures. On top of all this, she is certifying swim instructor
trainers throughout the US. Amber is an unstoppable force in aquatics and succeeds in every responsibility
that is added to her plate - and she does it with a smile.

Josh Reusser Salt Lake County P & R

Josh is a highly-engaged, and innovative presence on the Aquatics team at Salt
Lake County Parks and Recreation. This past year, Josh implemented new format
for swim lesson this summer at Liberty Park pool. Putting parents in the water
with the child during the lesson to increase time on-task during the lesson. As a
result, the children who stuck with this format progressed further than those
who did not. Taking the data, positive and negative feedback from parents in the
summer program that was gathered, Josh presented his findings to NRPA in a
presentation called "Let’s Start a Swimming Lesson Revolution." Josh also serves
as the on-air spokesperson for our aquatics team, discussing pool safety prior to
the outdoor pool season. He has been invited to speak at the National Drowning
prevention conference in April 2019 (held in New Orleans this year). He will be
presenting the ‘Let’s Start a Swimming Lesson Revolution.’

25 24

Outstanding Professional-Executive

Kristy Wolford Brigham City

Kristy was born and raised in Brigham City, Utah. She has 3 children and 5 grand-
children that she adores. Kristy played tennis, basketball, volleyball, ran track and
was on the drill team in high school. She attended Utah State University where she
received her degrees in physical education and health. Kristy has worked in the
Parks & Recreation field since 1983 and started full-time in 1998. Kristy is the Di-
rector of the Community Activities and Services Department which umbrellas the
Recreation, Pool, Senior Center and Museum Divisions. Kristy has a passion for the
departments she is in charge of, and has worked hard to understand the value in
all aspects of Community Activities & Services. She has a love for her employees
and youth staff and has trained thousands of youth in their first jobs, mentoring
them to move on and fulfill their career and life goals. If not at work, you can find
Kristy participating in numerous pickleball leagues or tournaments. Our Communi-
ty Activities & Services Department could not think of someone more deserving of
this award then Kristy. Kristy works tirelessly to make a difference in people’s lives, without being in the
spotlight, without significant acknowledgment, but with steadfast grace and passion. She is our Unsung
Hero.

2526

Scholarship Nominations-
Great Western Park & Playground Professional

Steve & Georgia Carpenter
Fred & Judy Tamagawa

Sam Braegger Utah Lake Commission

Sam works as the Outreach Coordinator for the Utah Lake Commission. From day
one of his degree in Recreation Management at BYU until now, Sam has been pas-
sionate about the benefits of leisure and recreation. He understands not just the
surface-level benefits such as having fun, physical fitness, etc. but also the theories
behind recreation and leisure that provide lasting, improved quality of life. He is
driven to always learn more and improve his efforts at providing quality recreation
opportunities to residents. Sam sees the value in collaboration and team work,
both inside of his organization and with outside partners and colleagues. The rela-
tionships he has developed within URPA have provided him and the Utah Lake
Commission with immense value in the form of new ideas, support and opportuni-
ties. If Sam were to receive this scholarship, he would have the chance to learn
skills he otherwise would not.

Bryce King Hurricane Recreation

Bryce was raised in an Air Force military family. He has lived a lot of places including Colorado, Texas, Eng-
land, Maryland and Arizona. The opportunity to grow up in a lot of places helped him be more “cultured” as
his mom would say. Bryce graduated from Utah State University in Parks & Recreation Management and
minored in Instructional Technology, Go Aggies! Bryce worked for Smithfield City before Hurricane and
often refers to his mentor Brett Daniels as the person who gave him the foundation to the recreation pro-

fessional he is today. Bryce has over 12 years of recreation experience with 8
years as a director. People often ask him if his job is fun and he often responds
with, “It Is AWESOME”! He loves working with people and seeing people recre-
ate and have new experiences. He wears many hats in addition to recreation
director such as graphic designer, webmaster, janitor, pool maintenance man-
ager, boiler technician and more. He is married to Stacey King and often refers
to her as the “Assistant Recreation Director” for Hurricane City. She is force
that leads him to be successful! They have 4 kids (Kaylee,10; Mckell,9; Sadie,7;
and Cooper, 3) he loves to spend time in Logan, Utah, play in the parks, watch
movies, golf, play hockey and attend Utah State sporting events.

27 26

Scholarship Nominations-
Great Western Park & Playground Professional

Steve & Georgia Carpenter
Fred & Judy Tamagawa

Joey Byington American Fork Recreation

Joseph Byington has been working in and around aquatic operations and manage-
ment for over 18 years including both part-time and full-time. I started off as an
American Red Cross Lifeguard at the age of 16 working for the NRPA gold award win-
ning municipality of Henderson, NV. Within five years, I had worked my way up
through management levels and was promoted to an aquatic supervisor of one of
newest aquatic complexes within the city, the Henderson Multi-Generational Recrea-
tion Center. In 2006 he was hired by American Fork City to manage the aquatic de-
partment which consists of an Olympic-sized competition pool, a therapy spa, and
seasonal outdoor leisure pool. During his time with American Fork City, he has also
been supported in furthering his training and education and has had the opportunity
to receive a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science from UVU and a master’s degree
in Public Administration from BYU. In addition, he obtained an AFO (Aquatic Facility
Operator) certificate through NRPA and Instructor Trainer certifications in Lifeguard-
ing and Water Safety. He is dedicated to promoting recreation within Utah and helping people get active and enjoy
different sports and programs. Recreation has so many benefits to one’s physical and mental health. He does his
best to support and bring awareness to opportunities by coaching basketball and flag football in the community. He
teaches young adults about swimming and water safety. He advertises and promotes outdoor recreation that Utah
has to offer and tries to get out as much as possible to experience it for himself and tell others about what Utah has
to offer.

2728

Outstanding Department-Class I (under 15,000 pop.)

Mapleton City Parks & Recreation

Mapleton Parks and Recreation
Department currently has on
staff a Parks and Recreation Di-
rector, a Recreation Coordinator,
two full time Parks staff, a build-
ing and Grounds Maintenance
Specialist, and two part time
Office Assistants. The depart-
ment has grown from one indi-
vidual to its current size within
the past sixteen years. Although
we are a small department we
have several responsibilities!
Our Department coordinates and
runs all recreation and athletic programs for youth and adults, which also includes our senior gym. We cur-
rently maintain seven parks and additional office and open space. Our staff also maintains over 6 miles of
the Mapleton Parkway Trail that was built in 2015-2017. We are also responsible for the maintenance of
several City owned buildings including our Administration Building, Harvest Park Events Center, Memorial
Hall, and Historic Museum. Our department is over all building and pavilion reservations which includes
three reception centers used primarily to host weddings, luncheons, family gatherings, and company
meetings. We organize and coordinate all special events for the City, including Opening Day Parade, Pio-
neer Day Celebration, Chalk the Walk, Moonlight Half Marathon, Scarecrow Festival, Christmas Tree
Lighting Festival, and Concerts In The Park. In addition, we coordinate and work closely with several vol-
unteers and the following committees: Senior Committee, Historical Committee, Youth City Council, Tree
Committee, City Clean-Up & Service Committee, and the Arts Committee. Our city’s steady growth has
provided challenges, but we continue to grow each year and to successfully deliver a high standard of ser-
vice for our community. We strive to provide our community with the best recreational experiences by
constantly trying to improve, to be innovative, and to grow and expand our programs.

29 28

Outstanding Department-Class II (15,000—50,000 pop.)

American Fork City Recreation

American Fork Fitness and Recreation provides fitness and
recreation services as the "Hub of North Utah County".
With 8 full time staff and utilizing hundreds of part time
employees year round, the department is able to provide
big city services with a small town touch. The department
provides events, a full amenity fitness center with swim-
ming pools and the whole array of youth and adult sports
and recreation programs. Because several surrounding
cities in North Utah County do not have facilities or recrea-
tion programming, we provide the facility and service for
the surrounding communities. In 2014, the city took the
Parks, Arts, Recreation and Culture (PARC) Tax Program to
a vote. It was approved unanimously and the City has benefited greatly. The city has received over
$900,000 annually to reinvest in the community. Projects completed include 6 new pickleball courts, a new
parking lot at the fitness center, 3 parking lots at unfinished parks, one new park design and construction,
benches and trees throughout the community and on trails, a beautiful sculpture in our cemetery, 2 new
pavilions in city parks, picnic tables throughout the city, a new horse shoe pitching complex, 2 new re-
strooms, and the city council recently allocated $5 million dollars from the program to finish a massive
sports complex. Staff have been vital in acquiring, utilizing and reporting on the funds. American Fork has
been able to maintain high quality programs and facilities with committed employees and wonderful par-
ticipants that come back day after day and season after season.

2930

Outstanding Department-Class III (over 50,000 pop.)
Provo City Parks & Recreation

Provo Parks and Recreation is a public service department of the City of Provo that serves a community of
117,000 residents, the third largest city in the state of Utah. This department features a broad range of rec-
reation programs and services, including 92 recreation facilities, parks and sites totaling over 2,197 acres of
property. This parks and recreation system includes diverse regional amenities some of which include a na-
tionally recognized recreation center, a championship golf course, cemetery, an Olympic ice arena, a per-
forming arts center operating at maximum capacity and even a shooting sports park. Programs and events
featured by the department are highly valued in Provo and consistently strong participation reflects a high
level of engagement in the local population. Community special events appeal to both residents and visi-
tors alike. The diversity of programming and events is reflective of community interests and requests, and
they are widely acclaimed by the public as being of high quality, appropriate to the city’s character and res-
idents’ expectations. Provo’s Freedom Festival, one of the nation’s largest fourth of July celebrations, to-
gether with the other events supported by Provo Parks and Recreation, enhance the quality of life for resi-
dents and visitors. The department also manages a network of urban trails and pathways. With 31 miles of
paved pathways and 30 miles of natural surface trails and plans to expand into the future, it is among the
most extensive trail systems in the nation for a city of its size. Above all, the critical component to depart-
ment success is the quality staff of Parks and Recreation professionals. Lead by a group of 55 full-time pro-
fessionals, the total staff of the department ranges from 595 total employees through the year, increasing
to 800 during the peak season. Solid management is critical in managing an organization of this size and
leadership is instilled at each level of the organization. Provo Parks and Recreation is grateful for the sup-
port of our Utah Recreation and Parks Association partners and we thank you for your consideration.

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