Aquatics - Ohio Parks and Recreation Association

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Aquatics
Ask an Aquatics Professional…
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
Are you in upper-level management in your agency? Do you have a pool to run and operate, but no full-time aquatics
professional on staff? This is a session where you can get all your questions answered, guidance on facility decision
making, or just some plain old honest feedback! At this session, you will have an open panel of aquatic experts with
combined decades of pool operations, aquatic programming, staff training experience, and knowledge of the ins and outs
of running outdoor seasonal and indoor year-round facilities alike. No inquiries are off limits, and we hope you leave our
session with your questions answered, clarity and solutions for your aquatic obstacles, and contacts to reference as you
work through your aquatic operations in the future.
Anastasia Bradley, Hilliard Parks & Recreation, Branden Burns, City of Twinsburg, Courtenay Chaffin, Prairie Township
Room: BANYAN

Spray Play for All: Designing Inclusive Spray Grounds and Splash Parks
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 2:30pm - 3:45pm
Communities across the country are adding spray and splash parks as one of the most highly requested and utilized
recreation amenities. How can these be universally designed to be inclusive for people of all ages and abilities to
participate equally? This session will examine the best practices recommendations for creating spray parks that are fun
and functional for all people. Truly inclusive spray play for people with and without disabilities, children, parents, and
grandparents alike.
Ingrid Kanics, Kanics Inclusive Design Services, LLC
Room: BANYAN

Think Outside the Tank! Unique Programming Opportunities
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 4:00pm - 5:15pm
Water Technology Inc.’s veteran Project Director, Matt Freeby, helps show how to introduce aquatic facilities to new
audiences using fun but unconventional programming solutions. Freeby provides examples of facilities that have
successfully implemented unique programming like sailing, log rolling, rope courses, board yoga, zip line, and Wibits and
how these programs have improved revenue, usage, and awareness of the aquatic facility.
Matt Freeby, Water Technology, Inc.
Room: BANYAN

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Customer Service

Communication Etiquette: Creating a Culture of Respect
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
Our work relationships impact job satisfaction and success as much as our job skills. As a result, respectful, civil
communication is key to long term professional and workplace success. Learn what communication etiquette means, why
it’s fundamental for success, and how it contributes to an emotionally intelligent work environment. Identify personal,
cultural, and environmental myths and practices that prevent respectful communication. And finally, recognize the goals,
strategies, styles, and approaches of successful work environments.
Andrea Peck, Andrea Peck Communications
Room: ALOESWOOD

My People? Your People? Nope…OUR People!
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 10:15am - 11:30am
Every moment a customer walks through our door or into our park we have an opportunity to welcome, connect, and
customize their experience. They are ALL our people regardless of age, ability, race, gender, sexual orientation, income,
or home status. Join us for this insightful and thought-provoking session on delivering authentic customer connections by
acknowledging our bias, engaging with our people according to their unique needs, and working with united staff teams.
Jo Burns, Jo Burns Connects LLC
Room: ALOESWOOD

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Diversity & Inclusion

Supporting LGBTQ+ Inclusive Work Environments
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
This session will cover diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEI&B) concepts that are necessary for building an
inclusive culture and creating a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ people. Concepts include LGBTQ+ terminology,
statistics, resources, and best practices that will provide organizations with the knowledge and skills for cultivating a
strong sense of belonging for members of the LGBTQ+ community. This interactive session will offer participants the
opportunity to reflect on biases around gender and sexuality and to strategize for the implementation of best practices
within their organization.
AJ Leu, Kent State University
Room: NILE

Creating Positive Practices to Reduce Unconscious Bias
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 2:30pm - 3:45pm
One's age, gender, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, weight, and other characteristics are subject to bias.
Unconscious biases are social stereotypes about groups of people individuals form outside their conscious awareness.
We’ll discuss five steps you can take to create positive practices and awareness and ensure unconscious bias is
recognized.
Lori Hoffner, Supporting CommUnity, Inc.
Room: NILE

Acknowledging Race and Privilege in Planning Processes
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 4:00pm - 5:15pm
The original intention of the Akron Cultural Plan was to understand the arts and cultural resources available in the
community and to determine what barriers existed to participating in arts and cultural activities. As the planning team
began the process, the project quickly became a conversation on equity and representation. This session will focus on the
process and the plan's 8 priorities: Equity, Access, Education, Talent, Engagement, Resources, Connections, Placemaking,
Economic Impact, and Public Art.
Amanda Golden, Designing Local; Cristina González Alcalá, Designing Local
Room: NILE

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Facilities & Operations

Maximum Overdrive: Your Equipment Could be Your Demise
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
Every park system, large or small, use equipment from small utility vehicles to large trucks. Our presentation covers the
equipment that many people take for granted and forget safety while operating. During the presentation we will review
the operator training for equipment such as Utility Task Vehicles (UTV), Skid-Steer loaders, compact tractors, lawn care,
and snow removal equipment utilizing investigations conducted by the Public Employment Risk Reduction Program
investigators (PERRP).
George Wenner, Ohio BWC Public Employment Risk Reduction Program
Room: ORANGE

Formulation/Application of a Good Emergency Action Plan
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 2:30pm - 3:45pm
This session will provide an overview of good risk management practices as they relate to EAPs. This includes discussion
on identifying potential incidents, training and equipment needs, EAP Fundamentals and Algorithm, documenting the EAP,
making the EAP work, and evaluation of your EAP. This session will address EAPs as they relate to a variety of facilities.
Joe Stefanyak, Jeff Ellis & Associates, Inc.
Room: ORANGE

Navigating the Jungle Gym of Cooperative Contracts
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 4:00pm - 5:15pm
Park departments today struggle with budget cuts, the unwanted acceptance of a low bid, and the challenge to secure
supplies in a timely fashion. Cooperative contracts pave a path for government agencies to save time and money and still
satisfy competitive solicitation requirements. This presentation will provide attendees the basics of cooperative purchasing
and reveal how Greene County Parks & Trails was able to save nearly a million dollars with the use of a cooperative
contract.
Jon Henke, Sourcewell; Paul Buettell, Butler Manufacturing; Chad Coe, Brentwood Builders, Inc.; Jon Dobney, Greene
County Parks & Trails; Chuck Frazier, Greene County Parks & Trails
Room: ORANGE

How to Create a SMART Dog Park!
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
Wagtown’s SMART Dog Park approach results in properly maintained off-leash areas that are safer and more enjoyable
for well-behaved dogs and their responsible families to exercise, play, and socialize. We will discuss intelligent design and
infrastructure, behavior and maintenance pain relievers, SMART Dog Park programs, welcoming, inclusive, equitable, and
convenient off-leash solutions, and tips and best practices will empower park professionals to achieve better outcomes for
new and upgraded dog areas.
Beth Cherryholmes Miller, Wagtown, Inc.
Room: ORANGE

Planning for the Unthinkable – An Emergency TTX
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 10:15am - 11:30am
This tabletop exercise (TTX) will engage team members by using group problem solving to enhance their knowledge of
plans allowing participants to improve their team’s performance during actual emergencies. These exercises will also allow
you to test your current emergency plans, identify strengths and weaknesses, and determine how to improve them. This
interactive session will demonstrate how to design, conduct, and evaluate this valuable training tool.
Bob Holub, City of Rocky River; Michelle Eibel, City of Rocky River
Room: ORANGE

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Fiscal Administration

Recreational Opportunities in Parallel with Private Development
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
The relationship between recreational space and private development is trending to an intentional and integrated
approach in recent years by public entities and developers alike. More complex and urbanized sites seeing private
redevelopment lead to unrealized public recreational opportunities ranging from critical trailhead connections to new,
large-scale community and regional parks. Learn through a series of case studies that will cover upfront visioning,
property arrangements, sharing of utilities and resources, design collaboration, phasing, and construction.
Timothy Rosenthal, MKSK; Chris Hermann, MKSK; Steve Studenmund, Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks
Room: LEOPARDWOOD

ODNR Available Grant Programs
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 2:30pm - 3:45pm
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources offers a variety of grant opportunities for public recreational facility
improvements and development. ODNR’s grant and program managers will present a variety of grants offered and offer
advice regarding future grant proposals. The panel of speakers includes staff from ODNR’s Office of Real Estate and Land
Management and Division of Parks and Watercraft.
Melissa Moser, ODNR; D'Juan Hammonds, ODNR; Timothy Robinson, ODNR
Room: LEOPARDWOOD

Growing Gifts from Individual Donors
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 4:00pm - 5:15pm
Research shows that nearly 90% of annual donations in the U.S. come from individuals. This is the greatest growth
opportunity for the nonprofit sector. It is also the most sustainable source of income over time. In this session Danielle
and Denise will walk participants through the Who, What, When, and How to asking individuals for philanthropic support.
They will review: where to find individual donors, how to start asking, what to say, and when to ask in order to create an
annual plan that's do-able.
Danielle Locke, Locke Step Partners; Denise Shafer, Landing Point Financial Group
Room: LEOPARDWOOD

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Fundamentals

Accountability; It’s Everybody’s Responsibility
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
We will discuss how we move beyond understanding the need for accountability, to engaging your team in ways that wins
their hearts, minds, and commitment. You’ll learn how to create a philosophy of accountability that everyone can embrace
and practice. A philosophy that removes fear and increases skills, confidence, and reliability.
Lori Hoffner, Supporting CommUnity, Inc.
Room: CYPRESS

Advance Your Career with a Mentor
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 2:30pm - 3:45pm
What is a mentor? How does a mentoring relationship come about? What should you expect from a mentor? These and
more questions will be addressed. Young professionals will learn how to identify and benefit from a person who can be a
valuable mentor. Tactics, procedures, pitfalls, actions, and more will be shared. In addition, Cara and Arnie will share how
their mentor-mentee relationship came about and how both have benefited.
Arnie Biondo; Cara Prell, City of Alpharetta
Room: CYPRESS

Program Planning 101
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 4:00pm - 5:15pm
Overview of the program design process, including understanding needs and interests, designing and executing
programs, and program assessment. Specific attention will be given to developing program purpose, goals and objectives,
planning logistics, theming, and outcomes assessment. Participants will create a new program or re-design an existing
one.
Mary Parr, Kent State University
Room: CYPRESS

Leadership - All Good Things Come in 3’s
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
No two people are alike, just as no two leadership styles are alike. Our life experiences form the lenses through which we
see the world and we lead based on that vision. In his 25 years of experience, Mike has seen these visions form
innumerable styles. But his own success, and the success of those he has witnessed, can be broken down into three
categories: Flexibility, Accountability, and Availability. Join him in sharing these valuable insights.
Mike Musser, Columbus Recreation and Parks
Room: CYPRESS

Learn and Understand Your Leadership Style
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 10:15am - 11:30am
This session will allow the participants to learn their leadership style and how their style relates to and works with the
styles of others. Knowing this information will improve the work environment where the strengths and weaknesses of
each individual will help the organization as a whole. The leadership styles will be determined by the DiSC Assessment
and each participant will have the opportunity to take the assessment after the workshop.
Greg Walker, Cincinnati Recreation Commission
Room: CYPRESS

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Human Resources

Leading Tough Staff in Tough Times
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
What snowflakes? These millenials are resilient and innovative. Let's explore how to best utilize their fearlessness and
carefree nature when running a pool during a pandemic or any other tough time. We will outline the mental and physical
health needs of staff and how that translates to customer service. We will discover how to assess those needs and plan
for the future. Riding the wave of the good times and planning for the tough ones!
Cara Prell, City of Alpharetta
Room: ALOESWOOD

Good Employees – Hire, Train, & Retain Them
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 2:30pm - 3:45pm
Candidates may interview well, but once the job starts, they start to fumble. But, why? We will compare interview
responses and what makes good candidates stand out. Once you have hired the right candidate, how do you onboard
that employee with the right tools to keep them flourishing. What does the workplace culture and your management style
look like? Will your candidate feel like they can grow and develop their skill set?
Aaliyah Earvin, Lynnwood Recreation/SRPfit
Room: ALOESWOOD

High Tech, High Touch Volunteer Engagement
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 4:00pm - 5:15pm
Learn how to balance the latest technology with a personal touch to work smarter, not harder in engaging volunteers and
managing data. No matter your budget, or comfort level with technology, by the end of this session you will have the
strategic tools to dig deeper into new, diverse communities to reach the right volunteers with the right skills. This is a fun,
dynamic, and interactive experience from the heart of Silicon Valley.
Dana Litwin, Dana Litwin Consulting
Room: ALOESWOOD

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Leadership Series

Failing Forward
Tuesday, February 8, 2022 | 1:00pm - 2:30pm AND 2:45pm - 4:15pm
We all know deep down that failure is common when we try something new, and that it can even help us produce better
outcomes in the end. But despite this, we work hard to avoid it (or even worse, ignore it), instead of embracing it. Learn
how to lessen the fear of uncertainty and the stigma of failure as you innovate and step outside of your comfort zone.
Through hands-on games and exercises, learn how to turn failure on its head so that you can associate failure less with
avoidance and instead turn it into an advantage.
Bobbi Nance, Recreation Results LLC
Room: INDIGO BAY

Happy Leader, Happy Employees, Better Results
Tuesday, February 8, 2022 | 1:00pm - 2:30pm AND 2:45pm - 4:15pm
Have you ever stopped and thought about how your mindset affects the performance, commitment, and happiness of
those you lead? How we think affects everything and everyone around us. Learn a few tips on how you can help bring
out the best in those around you by examining how our mind-set affects everything from relationships to results.
Thinking about how you can positively affect the well-being and performance of your team isn’t fluff, it's science - science
that makes a difference.
Julie Jones, LDR Worldwide/futureplans.com
Room: ZAMBEZI

Lessons from Leslie Knope
Tuesday, February 8, 2022 | 1:00pm - 2:30pm AND 2:45pm - 4:15pm
Working in public service can be a challenge. "What I hear when I'm being yelled at is people caring loudly at me." In this
fun, interactive session, we will take lessons from the Pawnee Goddess herself and reinforce the reasons we love working
in parks and recreation. We will discuss how to work with a wide cast of characters and how to handle successes and
failures. Take some time during Conference to "Treat Yo' Self" and ask WWLKD?
Amanda Gehres, Grove City Parks and Recreation; Melissa Hindman, Worthington Parks and Recreation
Room: NILE

Nothing Changes if Nothing Changes
Tuesday, February 8, 2022 | 1:00pm - 2:30pm AND 2:45pm - 4:15pm
The best systems know when the time comes to change course. This session will focus on 20 essential business
management practices that provide change opportunities which can dramatically help your agency to manage financially
and sustain yourself into the future in how you think about parks and recreation services for the future.
Leon Younger, PROS Consulting
Room: ORANGE

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Management

Get Extraordinary Things Done Faster, On Time, and Under Budget
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
When the clock is running down on a project, emotions are fragile and the budget is expanding by the second, what does
a great leader do—fold or find a way to make it happen? Getting
things done faster, on time, under budget and exceptionally begins with the right attitude and continues with careful
communication throughout the project. As a Two-Time Olympian, Sherry Winn knows the power of preparation,
organization and simplicity in the toughest of situations.
Sherry Winn, The Winning Leadership Company
Room: SAGEWOOD

FUNdamentals: Data, Technology, & Math, Oh My!
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 2:30pm - 3:45pm
In 2021, successful parks and recreation professionals need to be saavy not only in their own discipline, but also
technically proficient in using data, unleashing the possibilities of technology, and think like a mathematician. But not all
of us were trained to think analytically, mathematically, or are comfortable with the pace of technology. This session will
focus on providing some fundamentals in these areas to help you become a more well-rounded professional. These topics
don't have to be intimidating, in fact these core principles of success can actually be FUN! We will cover a wide range of
tools, tips, tricks, and options so that even if math wasn't your favorite subject in school, you'll see the advantages of
thinking like a math nerd and you will equip yourself along the way.
Ryan Davis, Miamisburg Parks and Recreation
Room: SAGEWOOD

Winning Stakeholder Support for Your Ideas
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 4:00pm - 5:15pm
Analyzing your stakeholders is critical to the success of every project or assignment in every organization. By engaging
the right people in the right way, you can make a big difference to your project’s success – and to your career. As your
career develops, the projects you manage and actions you take will affect more and more people – the more likely your
actions will impact those who have power and influence over your projects or career. These stakeholders could be strong
supporters of your work – or they could block it.
Michele Wierzgac, Michele & Company
Room: SAGEWOOD

Economic Development & Recreation Spur Urban Revitalization
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
Tom Mignery will moderate a panel of Ohio park professionals who will share their expertise. The topics discussed will
include how to spur economic development through parks and recreation, how to identify funding opportunities, such as
public/private partnerships and grants, and how to reduce maintenance costs. The panel will also discuss how to utilize
programming in park designs to increase revenues post COVID-19.
Tom Mignery, Burgess & Niple; Larry Peck, Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks; TBD, City Of Columbus
Room: SAGEWOOD

Strengthening the Workplace through Conflict
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 10:15am - 11:30am
Conflicts can be risky business. Yet, learning how to reframe, navigate, and grow from our conflicts can be instrumental
for creating productive, inclusive, and collaborative work environments. In this session you will learn to identify and
assess the pros and cons of personal conflict styles and patterns. Learn about the causes, types, benefits, and drawbacks
of conflict. Learn to distinguish between high risk and skillful communication approaches and be able to identify and
experience skills that strengthen relationships and build long term solutions - even when we don’t agree.
Andrea Peck, Andrea Peck Communications
Room: SAGEWOOD

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Management & Leadership

Ass-Kicking Women: How They Leverage Their Informal Networks for Success
Tuesday, February 8, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
Now is the time for women to break out and leverage the power of their informal networks. We know networking is
recognized as a major influence on one’s ability to achieve their goals and that the most successful people in the world
possess the capability to influence and shape the opinions of others. We also know that men spend a substantial amount
of time in their informal networks, but very little is known about how much time women spend in their informal networks.
In this ground-breaking presentation, Michele shares the stories and the golden secrets of women and their most prized
informal networks that have helped them to achieve their goals.
Michele Wierzgac, Michele & Company
Room: ORANGE

Becoming the Best Version of You
Tuesday, February 8, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
What makes the best parks and recreation professional? What are the core competencies that help you achieve your
goals and elevate your career? Now, more than ever, professional growth might best be achieved by understanding the
basics of both parks and recreation. Learn from two professionals who have moved up, not by doing everything, but by
attaining an understanding of, exposure to, and respect for all of the facets within our profession. Have you ever
wondered: How can I move up if I've never done that before? Why do I need to know how parks operate if I work in
recreation? How would my understanding of recreation make me a better parks professional? To move up, or to grow
yourself and your career, it's more about your experience, exposure, and understanding of the core competencies in a
variety of disciplines than becoming an expert in any given discipline. This session will show you the way to stand apart
from the rest.
Ryan Davis, Miamisburg Parks & Recreation; Gary Schussler, Kettering Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts
Room: SAGEWOOD/ZEBRAWOOD

Developing a Cost Recovery Plan
Tuesday, February 8, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
Creating a cost recovery plan on your own can be intimidating. Learn from other agencies that have recently created and
revised their cost recovery plans. We will discuss costs to provide the service, who benefits from the service and how
services can be grouped in categories. Whether your goal is to ensure equity in pricing or generate alternative revenue, it
all starts with a plan.
Bill Tschirhart, Five Rivers MetroParks
Room: MANGROVE

Equity in Evaluation
Tuesday, February 8, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
Planning isn't the only place where parks and recreation has the opportunity to advance social equity from within their
systems - measurement and evaluation processes also have a big impact as well. Learn how your data efforts, reports,
and evaluation processes have the potential to both help and harm your efforts to improve social equity in your
community, and steps you can take - big and small - to use data and evaluation to advance your equity efforts.
Bobbi Nance, Recreation Results LLC
Room: INDIGO BAY

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

How to Manage Up and Sideways
Tuesday, February 8, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
Do you have a challenging boss or board member? Having trouble getting on the same page with a co-worker or team
member? Tired of being frustrated by those supervising and working beside you and the negative impact to productivity
that comes with it? It doesn't have to be that way! Learn the art of managing up and sideways in this engaging session.
The speakers will share strategies and practical examples of how to effectively work with all types of supervisors and co-
workers. Participants will have an opportunity to share experiences and ask questions.
Darren Hurley, Worthington Parks and Recreation; Addie Weaver, Washington Township RecPlex
Room: ALOESWOOD/LEOPARDWOOD

Role of the Recreation Professional in Addressing Trauma
Tuesday, February 8, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
With the increasing need in the community setting to support individuals who have experienced trauma, it is imperative
that recreation professionals create trauma sensitive spaces within their organizations. The recreation professional can
play a pivotal role in building resiliency within individuals and communities. This session will prepare recreational
professionals to assess their agency’s trauma related policies and advocate internally for the needs of these individuals.
This presentation will discuss examples of staff training techniques, intervention implementation strategies, and staff's
role in assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating trauma sensitive spaces and programs.
Kristen Clatos Riggins, Cincinnati Recreation Commission; Taylor Singleton, Cincinnati Recreation Commission; Emily Lake,
Cincinnati Recreation Commission
Room: CYPRESS

Taking the Leadership Leap: Lessons from a New Parks & Recreation Director
Tuesday, February 8, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
You are not too young or too old - there’s no time like the present to take the leap into leadership. Do not focus on your
barriers; whether it's glass ceilings, an education requirement, or a lack of capital project experience that’s got you
hesitating. We all bring unique experiences to the table that can be leveraged into a promotion. This session will focus on
strategies to get you to the next level.
Kate Mattison, Gainesville Parks & Recreation, Erin Duffee, Hilliard Recreation & Parks
Room: NILE

Time is Finite, Personal Energy is Renewable!
Tuesday, February 8, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
To be successful we must be our best! Performing our best starts with our ability to manage our ENERGY, not just our
TIME. Managing time is important, but time is finite. Energy is renewable! The real enemy of high performance is not
stress. It is our inability to manage our work demands. Learn how to adjust your time and manage your personal energy
with a few simple strategic changes to your day.
Julie Jones, LDR Worldwide/futureplans.com
Room: ZAMBEZI

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Marketing

Does My Brand Matter?
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
Why does a logo matter? What goes into a successful logo? Brand is perception. Apple, Tesla, McDonalds… what comes
to your mind when you think of these brands? Logos, colors, design, and style are all examples of how a successful brand
lives. Building your brand creates opportunities for recognition, value, and reach in your local area. This session will
change your perspective on branding and how it can be your greatest asset in your organization.
Stephanie Sercu, Miamisburg Parks and Recreation
Room: MANGROVE

Social Media: When Things Go Wrong
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 10:15am - 11:30am
As public information professionals, we strive to keep residents informed and engaged with our organizations. But
sometimes even with the best intentions and careful planning, things go awry and negative information can be spread
online and beyond. In a world where people have more access than ever to publicly voice their opinions and share
information – and sometimes misinformation – we’ll cover best practices for handling negativity and redirecting the
conversation using real-world examples.
Stephanie Walton, Summit Metro Parks; Lindsay Smith, Summit Metro Parks
Room: MANGROVE

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Natural Resources

Land Management and Survey Techniques for Ohio’s Bats
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
This presentation will cover survey techniques and recommendations that land managers should consider to avoid
bat/human conflict including how to remove bats from buildings and when to cut or trim potential bat roost trees.
Erin Hazelton, ODNR Division of Wildlife
Room: ZEBRAWOOD

DETOUR Ohio Trails – Promoting Your Organization’s Authoritative Trail Data
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 2:30pm - 3:45pm
With the help of the Ohio Trails Partnership, the goal to inventory all the recreational trails in Ohio is within reach!
DETOUR Ohio Trails was built from the ground up to include all of Ohio’s recreational trails, not just those managed as
part of the state system. This session will introduce attendees to the DETOUR web and mobile apps. Most importantly,
we seek to engage Ohio’s community of park and recreation management professionals and share how they can include
and enhance their organization’s trail data in DETOUR.
Phil Hoffman, ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft; Megan Carmel, ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft
Room: ZEBRAWOOD

Three Naturalists Walk into a Public Garden
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 4:00pm - 5:15pm
A decade in review of the development, management, and refinement of Simpson Garden Park in Bowling Green.
Starting with a brief history of the Great Black Swamp and an explanation of how an 11-acre garden park came to be, we
will discuss the evolution of the park including: volunteer involvement, staffing/budget management, public education,
and the shift from traditional horticulture to a more sustainable model, including pesticide reduction and a focus on
increasing pollinator-friendly natives.
Mike Przysiecki, Bowling Green Parks and Recreation; Kaleigh Obrock, Bowling Green Parks and Recreation; Erin LeGalley,
Bowling Green Parks and Recreation
Room: ZEBRAWOOD

A Weedy Situation: Aquatic Plant Growth in Recreational Lakes
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
Finding a balance between a healthy, "natural" lake and a lake managed for recreation can be tricky. The ODNR Division
of Parks and Watercraft staff will discuss their journey with aquatic plant management in state park lakes and share the
lessons we have learned along the way.
Natalie Pirvu, ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft
Room: ZEBRAWOOD

H2Ohio Small-Scale Wetland Restoration Project
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 10:15am - 11:30am
From H2Ohio grant application to completed project monitoring, this session will review a small-scale wetland restoration
project located in Seneca County, Ohio. Staff from Seneca Parks, ODNR, contract coordinator, and monitoring crew will
provide a step-by-step project overview. Suggestions for future H2Ohio grant applicants and small-scale wetland projects
will be shared with group discussion and questions.
Sarah Betts, Seneca County Park District; Jakob Boehler, Heidelberg University; Christina Kuchle, ODNR; Judith Mitchell,
Davey Resource Group, Inc.
Room: ZEBRAWOOD

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

OPRA

Park District Section Meeting & Advocacy Update
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
Networking and discussion on issues of interest for Ohio park districts. Explore solutions to challenges that park districts
face as it relates to actions taken by state legislators.
Woody Woodward, Ohio Parks and Recreation Association
Room: MANGROVE

Diversity Listening Session
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 2:30pm - 3:45pm
Join Executive Director Woody Woodward and members of the OPRA Board of Directors for a frank discussion on issues
of diversity and how OPRA can best respond to challenges faced by racial and ethnic minorities within the parks and
recreation profession. We will also consider how the association might work to attract more racial and ethnic minorities to
the field of parks and recreation.
Woody Woodward, Ohio Parks and Recreation Association
Room: MANGROVE

Summer Camp Roundtable
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 4:00pm - 5:15pm
Engage in discussions regarding trends and current issues faced in summer camp programs. We will break into small
groups to discuss topics like programming ideas, behavior management methods, staff motivation, and training
techniques. Small groups will then share with the large group details of their subject. Come prepared to actively
participate with ideas and questions for the group.
Amanda Gehres, Grove City Parks and Recreation; Addie Weaver, Washington Township RecPlex
Room: MANGROVE

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Parks

The Power of a Neighborhood Park - By The Numbers
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
It is fair to say that as a nation we are in a health crisis. Among the chief contributors to this is physical inactivity, which
results in a whopping 11% of all deaths. The good news? Public parks and green spaces can be part of the solution.
Nelson Beckford, Cleveland Foundation; Jessica Gift, City of Cleveland
Room: ZAMBEZI

Bridging the Gap in Parks
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 2:30pm - 3:45pm
Overview of the installation of specialty bridges and trails for parks, including pedestrian suspension bridges,
prefabricated steel bridges, and smaller timber structures that fit the surrounding character of the parks – from small city
and private owned locations to state parks. The presentation will also discuss grant funding applications, administration of
projects that receive funding, and construction methods and oversight. Discussion will include innovative construction
methods and accounting for access difficulty.
Tom Less, Woolpert Inc.; J. Scott Myers, Miami County Park District
Room: ZAMBEZI

Maximizing Social Capital through Park & Trail Connectivity
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 4:00pm - 5:15pm
Explore how integrated design of park and trail amenities can contribute to connectivity, placemaking, a sense of
community, and economic development. Inclusive public engagement in the park and trail planning and design process
helps communities understand and incorporate great experiences into park and trail design, while meeting the social and
engineering requirements of safe, inclusive and accessible recreation, and alternative transportation. Examples include
greenways composed or parks and trails created through neighborhood and community collaboration.
Bruce Rankin, Woolpert; Jon Wiley, Woolpert
Room: ZAMBEZI

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Planning

Evidence-Based Landscape and Playground Design
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
More than just play, children with developmental disorders benefit from strategically designed sensory playgrounds and
sensory gardens. A study, completed by the STAR Center in Denver, Colorado, evaluated the outcomes of outdoor play by
children, therapists, and families experiencing the play space as a natural setting for rich, multisensory occupational
therapy interactions.
Ingrid Kanics, Kanics Inclusive Design Services, LLC
Room: ROSEWOOD

Contractor Selection: Keys to RFP/RFQ Development
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 2:30pm - 3:45pm
The success of a park development or restoration project involves many factors, but one of the most important is the
selection of the right consultant and contractor. This presentation will discuss the most common methods of project
delivery, design-bid-build vs. design-build, the competitive bidding process, development of RFP/RFQ documents and the
role of bonding in a project. We will also discuss how consultants and contractors analyze and decide which RFP/RFQs to
pursue.
Neal Hess; Jim Miller, Columbus Recreation and Parks; Chris Scannell, Columbus Recreation and Parks
Room: ROSEWOOD

Everybody Plays: A Guide to Multigenerational Design
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 4:00pm - 5:15pm
As our population continues to age, communities must continue to stay livable and usable to all because the reality is
we’re designing these communities for our future selves. According to the World Health Organization, by 2050 two billion
people will be over the age of 60. This session takes a look at the evolution of our aging population and age-integration
trends and will address how intentionally designed parks contribute to healthy lifestyles, keep older adults engaged, and
combat common ageist beliefs.
Jill Moore, Landscape Structures, Inc.; Ingrid Kanics, Kanics Design Services LLC
Room: ROSEWOOD

Building Playgrounds that Successfully Benefit your Community
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
Communities invest large sums of money into playground builds and automatically assume the investment will improve
the play quality and health of children in the community, increase the community’s tax base, and lead to many
community successes. While some playground builds are successful, many fail to meet the intended expectations. The
objective of this presentation is to present research-based strategies (e.g., inclusion, play styles) on how communities can
create playgrounds that will have successful outcomes.
Tina Stanton-Chapman, University of Cincinnati/PREP Consulting; Kelli Jette, University of Cincinnati
Room: ROSEWOOD

Motivation to Move: Promoting Physical Activity at Multi-Generational Park Destinations
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 10:15am - 11:30am
Communities are seeking innovative and exciting new opportunities to encourage active play for people of all ages. By
intentionally and thoughtfully creating outdoor environments with fitness in mind, parks can dramatically impact efforts in
promoting less sedentary lifestyles across generations. Uncover innovative solutions, case examples, evidence-based
programs, and unique design strategies that inspire people of all ages to live healthier, happier lives through active
movement.
Ron Blake, DWA Recreation/GameTime
Room: ROSEWOOD

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Programming

The New Age of Group Fitness
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
An instructor showing up and instructing members is a thing of the past. Instead, members are looking for community,
inspiration, and classes where they feel comfortable. Instructors need to understand building relationships and offer
classes that are inclusive and evolve. So, does it make sense to provide 60-minute classes still? Let’s discuss class
offerings, including in-person, hybrid, or digital, length or type of class, price points, observing classes, and more.
Aaliyah Earvin, Lynnwood Recreation/SRPfit
Room: IRONWOOD

Strengthening Culturally Relevant Programming in Urban Recreation
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 2:30pm - 3:45pm
Outdoor experiences can be challenging or even devalued when you are consistently leaving a community to find green
space, refuge, or peace. Reality often dictates that the setting in some of Cleveland’s urban environments is not always
the safest place for exploration and fun. Delivering culturally relevant programming amongst families, communities, and
cultures alter this perspective as we bike and row Cleveland’s Great Lake and revived Cuyahoga River!
Ebony Hood, Syatt; Erika Hood, Syatt; Marcia Hood, Syatt
Room: IRONWOOD

Add Adventure to Your Summer Camps
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 4:00pm - 5:15pm
Summer camps have the ability to introduce campers to activities and environments they have never experienced before.
Getting outside onto trails, into creeks, or even bringing the adventure indoors can create lasting memories for our
campers. Set your parameters and let you campers explore their environment!
Oliver Wuensch, Cincinnati Recreation Commission
Room: IRONWOOD

Grow Your Base - #Preschoolers
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
Through a public survey and the changing of culture within the program/events team at Greene County Parks & Trails,
they have managed to grow their base of attendees by focusing on what the public wanted - more programs for younger
children. By simply listening and changing the concept of what a program should look like, preschool program numbers
have increased by almost 550 participants at a time. So if your adult attendance is aging out, are you capturing your
audience at the earliest of ages? How did they do it?
Robin Gregory, Greene County Parks & Trails; Ashlee Schmitt, Greene County Parks & Trails
Room: IRONWOOD

Senior Games: Everyone Can Play
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 10:15am - 11:30am
Senior Games are an exciting, competitive event for active adults 50 years and better. The Six County Senior Games in
the Chicago area will be the model and discussion will include philosophy, events, facilities, marketing, awards,
volunteers, and other guidelines. Learn how to organize and implement such an event in your community. You'll be glad
you did!
Teresa Grodsky; Mary Stallings, Dundee Township Park District
Room: IRONWOOD

2022 OPRA Conference & Trade Show Education Sessions

Trends
eSports In My Community - What Does it Look Like?
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
In this session, you will learn how to assess your readiness to begin offering eSports opportunities to your community.
You will get a better understanding of what an inclusive eSports gaming lab could look like in your facility and provide you
with the tools and resource connections to help bring eSports to your community from someone who has done just this at
their department.
Dave Pace, Westerville Parks & Recreation
Room: INDIGO BAY

The Benefits of Drones for Parks and Recreation
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 2:30pm - 3:45pm
This session is designed to introduce you to drones and to discuss some of the ways that you can use them to further
your agency's mission and objectives. I will cover many of the use cases for drones, the equipment I use, the costs
involved, and provide guidance on starting your own drone program.
Joshua Brenwell, Metroparks Toledo
Room: INDIGO BAY

RAPID 5, Public-Private Partnership
Monday, February 7, 2022 | 4:00pm - 5:15pm
Metro Parks, ULI Columbus, Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) and numerous visionary public and private
community leaders, have developed a vision for an integrated open space network that maximizes our natural assets. The
vision extends beyond individual jurisdictions and creates a cohesive plan for the improvement of the publicly owned land
along the five major waterways in Franklin County. This vision brings every resident of Franklin County within 1.5 miles
from a park or greenway.
Tatiana Parfenova, Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks; Tim Moloney, Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks
Room: INDIGO BAY

Innovation is Invitation: What's Next in Inclusive Play
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 8:30am - 9:45am
Now more than ever, we’ve begun to understand what makes up the fundamentals of an inclusive playspace. As we
continue with the movement of pushing beyond ADA compliance to create meaningful experiences for ALL diagnoses,
we’re taking more in-depth looks than ever at how to innovate the ramp experience, what’s next in sensory play and
cognitive disorders, even a deeper dive into designing for visual and hearing disorders. We’re understanding that
innovation means invitation, and the next step in play is to truly include everyone.
Jill Moore, Landscape Structures, Inc.
Room: INDIGO BAY

How to Design the Best Outdoor Classrooms
Wednesday, February 9, 2022 | 10:15am - 11:30am
The design and use of outdoor environments are undervalued aspects of the early childhood curriculum and are
underused for learning purposes. Early childhood professionals recognize the importance of high-quality outdoor
environments in teaching curriculum standards, building social-emotional skills and encouraging positive health. As a
result, there is motivation to combine the curriculum, the outdoor environment, developmental domains, and universal
design into outdoor designs. Our objective is to teach participants how to do such a design.
Tina Stanton-Chapman, University of Cincinnati/PREP Consulting; Kelli Jette, University of Cincinnati
Room: INDIGO BAY