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The Official Voice for the Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel (RFP)S
PR
ING
2017 LEISURE
LINES
Postal Registration: Canada Publication Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40037331 - Calgary, Alberta
RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: RFP LEISURE LINES, P.O. BOX 100, COCHRANE, ALBERTA T4C 1A4
RECREATION FACILITY PERSONNELRECREATION FACILITY PERSONNEL
www.aarfp.com
MEMBER UPDATE: First RFP President Joins in Our Celebration
ASK AN EXPERT: 40 Years of Recreation Facility Expertise
FEATURE STORY: RFP From Then To Now in Pictures
FLASHBACK – ASK AN EXPERT
Few Tips for Maintenance During Arena Shutdowns .....18
New Technologies in Disinfection ...................................20
Managers Influence Quality of Life.................................23
The 2017 RFP 40th Anniversary Conference
& Trade Show Venue: The Edmonton River Cree
Resort & Casino ..............................................................25
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FLASHBACK – PAST CONFERENCES
FLASHBACK – IN THE WORKPLACE
There is no Future Without a Past ..................................26
Sexual Harassment in the Workplace Is Real ..................28
News From Our Partner: ARPA .......................................30
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RFP EVENTS
RFP’s PARTNERS
President’s Report .....................................................................4
Executive Director’s Report .......................................................5
2017 RFP Board of Directors......................................................6
RFP Associate Membership .......................................................7
2017 RFP Course Schedule ........................................................8
2017 RFP Symposium (Stettler).................................................9
2017 RFP Course Registration....................................................9
Want to make a difference in the
Recreation Facility Community?................................................11
Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel
(AARFP) Annual General Meeting (AGM) Report 2016 ...........13
First RFP President Joins in Our Celebration............................15
FEATURE STORY
Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel
(AARFP) History & Background .......................................16
We gratefully acknowledge the financial assistance from the lottery fundsdistributed by the Alberta Recreation and Physical Activity Division.
Leisure Lines is the official magazine of
the Alberta Association of Recreation
Facility Personnel, published four times
per year. To contribute articles, contact
the Communications Coordinator,
Monica Culic,
P.O. Box 100,
Cochrane, Alberta T4C 1A4
Phone: (403) 851-7626
Fax: (403) 851-9181
MISSION STATEMENTProviding Education, Consultation and
Advocacy for people involved in Recreation and Facility Operations.
Postal Registration: Canada Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40037331 - Calgary, Alberta
RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: RFP LEISURE LINES, P.O. Box 100, Cochrane, Alberta T4C 1A4
GOALS
1. Ensuring government awareness ofindustry needs for uniform facilityeducation standards.
2. Implement the Marketing Planspecific to brand awareness andmembership growth.
3. Increase use of technology foreducation promotion andcommunication.
4. Improve instructor and coursematerial quality assurance.
5. Define and implement an effectiveboard structure including roles andresponsibilities.
PUBLISHING INFORMATION
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 3
VISION STATEMENT
We are the leaders in recreation facility operations.
VALUES
Leadership
Fellowship
Diversity
Passion
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RECREATION FACILITY PERSONNEL
TABLE OF
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RECREATION FACILITY PERSONNELRECREATION FACILITY PERSONNEL
SPRING ISSUE • MARC H 2017RFP Leisure Lines
for our staff and patrons in our facilities. Accomplishing all of this while at the same time providing a venue where members can enjoy being away from the office for a few days is tough. I am convinced that nobody else puts on a conference better than RFP does.
Although things have changed in 40 years at RFP - and continue to change, the balance of business at our conference, symposium and courses will never change. We will keep providing the recreation facility resources
you need to do your job and have fun doing it. I am confident in saying this, because of the great relationships we have with our industry partners. These relationships are key to our future success in providing our members what you all need to be successful in your work and lives.
Recently, we began working with Red Deer College in establishing a certificate and diploma program for Recreation Facility Operations. We will have details available for you at conference in Edmonton. The same details will be posted on our website (aarfp.com) for those who can't make it, so stay tuned.
See you at conference in Edmonton in April!
R U S S TA N N E R
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 4
president’s report
That's right, the RFP is celebrating 40 fantastic years serving recreation facility members just like you.
We are celebrating our 40-year anniversary at this year's Annual Conference & Trade Show, being held in
rd thEdmonton, Alberta on April 23 to 26 , 2017 at the Marriot Resort Edmonton River Cree. I hope to see you there as we celebrate our dynamic history together. To register, visit our website: aarfp.com.
I remember my first conference clearly. It was held in Stettler, Alberta and it had enough of an impact on my career that I keep coming back to RFPs conference year after year. I haven't missed one since. I remember feeling welcome, informed, connected and excited. It may have had something to do with the rookie dots they made us wear (you'll see what I mean). I was so impressed with how friendly everyone was. I remember learning about the “new technology” of AED's and their introduction into recreation facilities. Wow! We've come so far since then.
The industry connections made at my first conference with recreation facility practitioners and suppliers saved me time solving problems. I was introduced to products that I didn't know existed that continue to create a safer, healthier, more efficient environment
RECREATION FACILITY PERSONNELRECREATION FACILITY PERSONNELthReady to celebrate?! Celebrate what, you ask? The RFP's 40 anniversary!
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 5
thAs we roll into the 40 Anniversary of the Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel (RFP), we are looking back on how far we've come.
I was recently asked: “What does RFP mean to you?”. I had to give this question some serious thought. My involvement with RFP in one way or another has spanned most of the past 40 years. I served on the board of directors, am still a senior instructor and the Executive Director. These are all examples of things I do for the RFP not what the RFP means to me. Allow me to explain.
The RFP has given me an opportunity to work with some of the greatest folks in the recreation facility industry. I've gained many friends and many more business partners. This truly is a community of like-minded individuals who share common goals. Operating and maintaining recreation facilities brings us together. It is the people you meet along the way that makes this community so wonderful. It feels amazing to hang out and work with such great people!
Many of my positions with RFP have required some travel to conduct the Associations' business. Personally, I love travelling and seeing the world. Lucky me! I volunteer with a member-supported organization and get my travel fix -at the same time. My work with the RFP has given me wonderful memories of the locations I've been fortunate enough to visit.
My involvement with RFP has made me a confident public speaker. As an instructor, I speak to a lot of people every year. It is true, the more you practice the better you get with most activities. Public speaking is no exception.
I remember one of my first RFP teaching moments. I was a new RFP instructor and I was teaching one of my first Arena 1 courses. My nerves before teaching a course have gotten better over the years. In the beginning, they were almost unbearable. On the morning of the course, I set up the classroom, arranged all of the supplies for the day's activities. Everything was ready to go. I stepped out of the room and down the hall to wipe the sweat off my brow, make sure my water container was full and calm my nerves. Soon, it was start time. I walked back into the classroom. Sitting in the front row was one of my college instructors. Talk about a surprise - and not a pleasant one for my nerves! He had heard about the RFP and signed up for this specific course to see what we were all about. This resulted in a few stutters in the beginning of my presentation but it was all good by the end of the day.
I have learned a lot about recreation facilities from my involvement with RFP. Yes, all the RFP's courses taught me a ton about facility operations and maintenance. When you get the opportunity to talk to other operators, you learn about what is happening at their buildings. Over my almost 40-year career of operating facilities, I have seen and experienced some fascinating things. When you get to see numerous facilities firsthand, it gives you a greater appreciation
for what it takes to operate and maintain them.
Today I work at one of the greatest organizations I have ever come across. I consider myself to be a fortunate guy to have had a lifetime of RFP memories and experiences. There is a great sense of pride and accomplishment in the work that the RFP does. I guess to sum it all up in a few words: if you do something you enjoy and are passionate about, you never have to work a day in your life. RFP is just that.
S T U A R T R AYexecutive director’s report
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thWelcome to the 40 Anniversary Edition of Leisure Lines! RECREATION FACILITY PERSONNELRECREATION FACILITY PERSONNEL
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 6
PRESIDENTRuss Tanner ([email protected])
(403) 362-0135 (Ext 1)
PAST PRESIDENTSandi Stewart ([email protected])
(403) 782-1266
PRESIDENT ELECTLloyd Smith ([email protected])
(403) 609-8720
SECRETARYCharlene Sutter ([email protected])
(780) 385-3977
TREASURERDawn Phillips ([email protected])
(780) 672-9195
EDUCATION REPSonia Dodd ([email protected])
(403) 740-3471
ASSOCIATE REPJohn Greer ([email protected])
(800) 565-9898
OFFICE STAFF
Stuart Ray
Rhonda Phillips
Monica Culic
P.O. BOX 100,
COCHRANE, ALBERTA T4C 1A4
(403) 851-7626
Fax: (403) 851-9181
1-888-253-7544
email: [email protected]
EDMONTON ZONE REPRoss Johnson ([email protected])
(780) 423-6823
NORTH WEST ZONE REPWill Vredegoor ([email protected])
(780) 524-5158
SOUTH ZONE REPKevin Nugent ([email protected])
(403) 504-1197
SOUTH CENTRAL ZONE REPKevin Olsen ([email protected])
(403) 854-6420
CALGARY ZONE REPCheryl Wauthier ([email protected])
(403) 267-1233
CENTRAL ZONE REPChris McKenna ([email protected])
(403) 348-1185
NORTH CENTRAL ZONE REPCarol Dunnigan ([email protected])
(780) 962-7616
NORTH EAST ZONE REPScott Walker ([email protected])
(780) 842-3381
GOVERNMENT REPRoger Kramers ([email protected])
(780) 422-3305
RFP 2017
board of directors RECREATION FACILITY PERSONNEL
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 6
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 7
The Associate Membership of the Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel are companies that offer products and services to the recreation industry. This membership plays a key role in the success and growth of our association. The companies and their staff have consistently strived to provide excellent technical advice and first-rate products and services that are used by our valued members.
This list of our AARFP Associate Members is proudly provided for the benefit of our membership. When looking for excellence in products and services, we encourage you to look first to this list before you shop elsewhere. You will be pleasantly surprised to find everything you need right here. For a list of their products, services and contact information, please visit our Supplier's page at www.aarfp.com.
Crown Sports Floors
Energie Innovation Inc.
Erv Parent Co. Ltd.
Eye On The Ice
FCS Solutions Ltd.
Fitness West
Gateway Mechanical
Guest Automation Inc.
Henderson Recreation Equipment Ltd
Industrial Machine Inc.
Jet Ice Limited
Kinetic Systems
Lifesaving Society
Longbow Sales Inc.
Master Pools
Mayekawa Canada Inc.
Multigas Detection and Reltech Drives and Controls
Musco Sports Lighting
Nationwide Commercial Aquatics
New Perspective Pools
New-Tech Turf Products Ltd.
Nilfisk Canada
North West Rubber Ltd.
OMNI SPORT Inc.
Park N Play Design Co. Ltd.
A2Z Arena Products Ltd.
AB Recreation and Parks Assoc.
Acoustic Solutions
Alberta Beverage Container Recycling Corporation
Alberta Municipal Health and Safety Association
Alberta Recreation and Parks Association
Apple Fitness Store Ltd.
Aquam INC
Aspen Ventures
Athletica Sport Systems Inc.
Automated Aquatics of Canada Ltd.
Big Hill Services Ltd.
Blue Diamond Equipment Innovations Inc.
Blue Imp Recreational Products of Canada
Bright Solutions
Canadian Arena Products
Canadian Leak Detection of Alberta Ltd.
Canadian Recreation Solutions
Canadian Red Cross
Centaur Products Inc.
Centratech Technical Services Ltd.
Cimco Refrigeration Ltd.
CLM Distribution Pool and Spa Products Inc..
Colored Shale Products Inc
Commercial Aquatic Supplies
Phoenix Fence Corp.
Pinnacle Aquatic Group Inc.
PlayQuest Recreation
PlayWorks Inc and ParkWorks Inc..
RC Strategies
Regent Supply
Schoolhouse Products Inc
Softline Solutions AB Inc.
Splashables Inc.
Startec Refrigeration Services
Stevenson Industrial Refrigeration Ltd.
Strathcona Ventures
Swish Maintenance Limited
Titan Sport Systems
Tomko Sports Systems Alberta
TSE Technologies Inc.
Vilmac Inc.
W.E. Greer Ltd.
Watson Pools Inc.
Wesclean
Western Canada Heat Exchanger Ltd
Western Gym and Recreational Supplies Ltd.
Western Pro Sporting and Supply
White Ice 1995 Ltd.
RFP ASSOCIATE
membership RECREATION FACILITY PERSONNEL
SPORTS SURFACES & FACILITY EQUIPMENTOVER 8000 COURTS – SINCE 1978
TENNIS BASKETBALL SPORTS GOLF TRACKS
www.tomkosports.com
Tennis & Basketball Courts
Tracks / Artificial Turf
Baseball / Hockey / Golf
JOHN DAFOE
Toll Free: (877) 631-19136C, 624 Beaver Dam Road N.E. Calgary, Alberta T2K 4W6
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 8
If you are NOT a current member, you will need to become one before you can register for a course.
Membership is prorated. Everyone has to have a current Membership to attend an RFP course.
2017 RFP
course schedule RECREATION FACILITY PERSONNEL
ARENA OPERATOR LEVEL 1
ARENA OPERATOR LEVEL 2*June 20-23, 2017 ........................................Stettler (SYMPOSIUM)
ARENA MAINTENANCE
BUILDING MAINTENANCE LEVEL 1
*June 18-19, 2017 ........................................Stettler (SYMPOSIUM)
(back to back w/Level 2)
BUILDING MAINTENANCE LEVEL 2
*June 20-21, 2017 ........................................Stettler (SYMPOSIUM)
(back to back w/Level 1)
CUSTODIAL*June 19, 2017 .............................................Stettler (SYMPOSIUM)
June 26-27, 2017...................................................................Red Deer
July 6-7, 2017 .................................................Calgary (NE Sportsplex)
July 25-26, 2017 .................................................................Lethbridge
August 3-4, 2017.....................................................................Okotoks
August 28-29, 2017 ........................................................Spruce Grove
September 19-20, 2017........................................................Redwater
September 25-26, 2017 ............................................................Airdrie
September 27-28, 2017 ...........................................................Stettler
August 15-18, 2017 ...........................................................Strathmore
April 7, 2017.....................................................Edmonton (Clareview)
June 9, 2017 ..............................................Calgary (Cardel Rec South)
September 15, 2017 ..........................................................Sylvan Lake
September 20, 2017.......................................................Spruce Grove
September 28, 2017.......................................Calgary (NE Sportsplex)
November 3, 2017 ...........................................Edmonton (Clareview)
May 8-9, 2017 ...........................................Calgary (Cardel Rec South)
(back to back w/Level 2)
June 12-13, 2017............................................................Spruce Grove
(back to back w/Level 2)
Calgary (NE Sportsplex) ................................................Grande Prairie
(back to back w/Level 2)
May 10-11, 2017 .......................................Calgary (Cardel Rec South)
(back to back w/Level 1)
June 14-15, 2017............................................................Spruce Grove
(back to back w/Level 1)
September 13-14, 2017................................................Grande Prairie
(back to back w/Level 1)
October 16, 2017...............................................................Sylvan Lake
LIFE CYCLE/RISK MANAGEMENT
*June 19, 2017 .............................................Stettler (SYMPOSIUM)
PARKS & SPORTS FIELDS LEVEL 1
*June 20, 2017 .............................................Stettler (SYMPOSIUM)
(back to back w/Level 2)
PARKS & SPORTS FIELDS LEVEL 2
*June 21-22, 2017 ........................................Stettler (SYMPOSIUM)
(back to back w/Level 1)
POOL OPERATOR LEVEL 1 (Certified)
*June 18-19, 2017 ........................................Stettler (SYMPOSIUM)
POOL OPERATOR LEVEL 2 (Advanced)*June 20-23, 2017 ........................................Stettler (SYMPOSIUM)
SUPERVISORY SKILLS
*June 22-23, 2017 ........................................Stettler (SYMPOSIUM)
June 9, 2017 ...............................................................................Leduc
April 5, 2017 ..........................................................................Camrose
(back to back w/Level 2)
May 16, 2017 ........................................................................Lacombe
(back to back w/Level 2)
April 6-7, 2017 .......................................................................Camrose
(back to back w/Level 1)
May 17-18, 2017 ...................................................................Lacombe
(back to back w/Level 1)
May 11-12, 2017 .................................................................Slave Lake
May 25-26, 2017...................................................................Cochrane
June 5-6, 2017................................................................Medicine Hat
June 12-13, 2017........................................................................Leduc
July 5-6, 2017................................................................................Olds
August 10-11, 2017 ...........................................................Sylvan Lake
October 19-20, 2017 ........................................Edmonton (Clareview)
November 2-3, 2017 ................................................Calgary (Vecova))
August 1-4, 2017 ........................................................................Leduc
September 25-28, 2017 ............................................................Brooks
June 7-8, 2017............................................................................Leduc
* COURSES TO BE HELD AT THE 2017 AARFP SYMPOSIUM IN
STETTLER, AB FROM JUNE 18-23, 2017
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 9
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Arena Level 1
Certified Swimming Pool Level 1
Building Mtce. Level 1
Building Mtce. Level 2
Parks & Sport Fields 2
Supervisory Skills
*Prices subject to change.
IF you are NOT a current member, you will need to become one before you can register for a course. Membership is prorated.
Everyone has to have a current Membership to attend an RFP course. This membership provides you with benefits such as access to our quarterly
newsletters, and several other online features you can check out at www.aarfp.com!
PAYMENT OPTIONS: Payment can be made via money order or cheque made payable to “R.F.P.”. VISA, MasterCard and Purchase Orders also accepted. Payment MUST BE RECEIVED one week prior to the start of the course. Payment will not be accepted at the course.
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Arena Level 2*
Advanced Swimming Pool Level 2*
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Parks & Sport Fields Level 1
Arena Mtce.
Curling Mtce.
Lifecycle/Risk Management
Custodial
Developing a Policy & Procedure
Facility Manual
2017 RFP
course registration
$412.00 (includes $19.61 GST)
$645.00 (includes $30.71 GST)
$266.00 (includes $12.66 GST)
RECREATION FACILITY PERSONNEL
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
online
This Symposium is designed to
encourage facility operators and
professionals to develop and enhance
their skills and abilities in areas that
will benefit themselves, their
employer, their career, and the facility
in which they operate.
The Symposium is intended to deliver
a number of courses in a cost
effective manner and is also intended
to help those individuals that are
working towards achieving
certification in recreation along with
their Western Certification.
If you are NOT a current member, you will need to become one before you can register for a course.Membership is prorated. Everyone has to have a current Membership to attend an RFP course.
Registration for any of these courses can be done online at our website,
www.aarfp.com by clicking on the 'Courses' tab. Please note that some courses
may not run if there are not enough people registered in that particular course.
2017 RFP
symposium ST E T T L E R , AL BE RTARECREATION FACILITY PERSONNEL
June 18-19, 2017 .................................................Building Maintenance Level 1
June 18-19, 2017..............................................................Pool Operator Level 1
June 19, 2017......................................................................................Custodial
June 19, 2017 ........................................................Life Cycle/Risk Management
June 20, 2017 ........................................................Parks & Sports Fields Level 1
June 20-21, 2017 .................................................Building Maintenance Level 2
June 20-23, 2017 ...........................................................Arena Operator Level 2
June 20-23, 2017..............................................................Pool Operator Level 2
June 21-22, 2017 ...................................................Parks & Sports Fields Level 2
CLASS SIZE:Maximum 20
COURSE START TIME:8:30 a.m.
FINISH TIME:5:00 p.m. on the last day
NOTE: ** Level II will be required to dosome after class & evening work.
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 11
Want to make a difference in the RecreationFacility Community?
Why not join the RFP's Board of Directors?
What Does the RFP's Board Do?
What is in it for you?
What Positions Are Available?
What Compensation Will I Receive?
What Are the Terms of Office?
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Governs and directs the affairs of the Association.Oversees the financial business of the Association.Ensures accountability to the membership in all RFP matters.
Opportunity to influence the development of your professional Association.Opportunity to enhance your leadership and communication skills.Exposure to Provincial and National issues.Experience in policy development and organizational governance.Opportunity to participate in the long and short term strategic direction of RFP.Chance to meet new people in the recreation industry – consultants, politicians, practitioners and more.
The following positions are available for election at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in 2017:
SecretaryTreasurer Associate Rep. (1-year term)Arena Rep. (1-year term in 2017*)Pool RepresentativeParks and Sport Field Rep. (1-year term in 2017*)Building Maintenance and Operations Rep.
*The Arena and Parks and Sports Field Reps will hold office for a period of two (2) years starting in 2018 (even) years to stagger Board positions.
Board members do not receive remuneration for their services. The position is voluntary.Board members are reimbursed for expenses incurred in carrying out Board duties, with the completion of an expense claim.
All Board members are elected for two-year terms – with the exception of the Associate Representative, who serves for one year but can be re-elected. If you are elected as the President-Elect, the time commitment total is six years with two years serving as President-Elect, two years as President and two years as Past President. Each position has a maximum of three consecutive two year terms.
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Elections of Board positions are staggered. Half of the positions are elected in odd years and the other in even years.
Attending at least six (6) Board Meetings a year plus the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at RFP's Annual Conference as well as keep informed and actively participating in Board discussions and functions.President, President-Elect and one Stream Rep serve on the Personnel Committee, which meets on an as-needed basis to make recommendations to the Board on general issues around paid staff and personnel of the Association and ensures policies of the Board related to staff and personnel are adhered to.Participating in relevant sub-committees of the Board and contributing documentation as requested in a timely fashion.Contributing an article to the quarterly (4x/year) Leisure Lines magazine, working with RFP's Communications Coordinator to do so.
What Are You Committing To?
continued...
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 12
Who Is Eligible for Election?
When and Where Will Elections Be Held?
How Can You Be Nominated?
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Any RFP member in good standing.Membership must be maintained during your term of office.
At the Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled during the RFP Annual Conference & Trade Show, which is usually held during the last week in April.Conferences are held in Alberta communities, selected through a conference hosting process.
You must be nominated by two RFP members in good standing.Nomination forms are available on the RFP Website: www.aarfp.com or from the RFP Office (Toll Free: 1.888.253.7544 or email [email protected]).Nominations will be posted at RFP's Conference at least 24 hours prior to the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
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Nominations may also be made from the floor at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) during the election process.
Positions become effective immediately following the close of the Annual General Meeting.
Questions about the Board, roles and responsibilities, may be directed to the current RFP Past President, Sandi Stewart, at 403-782-1266 or [email protected] about procedures, including such things as the definition of a member in good standing and the boundaries of RFP zones, may be directed to the RFP Office at 1.888.253.7544 or [email protected].
When Do Positions Become Effective?
Where Can You Get Further Information?
RFP Board Member Nomination Forms can be found at
www.aarfp.com
Want to make a difference in the Recreation Facility Community?Why not join the RFP's Board of Directors?
continued from page 11...
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 13
Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel(AARFP) Annual General Meeting (AGM) Report 2016
MISSION STATEMENT
VISION STATEMENT
VALUES
“Providing education, consultation and advocacy for people involved in recreation and facility operations.”
“We are leaders in facility operations and recreation.”
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Leadership - Maintaining a level of professionalism, integrity and respect in the field of recreation & facility servicesFellowship - Supporting our members and their communities with the sharing of knowledgeDiversity - Govern in a manner that embraces the differences of, race, culture, religion and opinion
Ÿ Passion - Passion for what we do and how it contributes to a healthier Alberta
1. Ensure government awareness of industry needs for uniform facility education standards
2. Implement the marketing plan specific to brand awareness and membership growth
3. Increase use of technology for education, promotion and communication
4. Improve instructor and course material quality assurance5. Define and implement a board structure including roles
and responsibilities
For 2016, we initiated 83 different projects, tasks or activities all linked to achieving the above objectives. Below are some of the significant achievements the past year:
1. Review of the Associations' board structure. This included assessing and evaluating the board of director's roles and responsibilities and implement a revised board structure. The board reviewed the governance of the association, examined the needs of the organization and then set about restructuring the board. The new board is being elected at the 2017 Annual General Meeting.
2. We have been involved in the planning and delivery of the Canadian Parks Summit in Canmore in 2016 and the Canadian Parks Conference in March of 2017 in Banff.
3. We partnered with Sport Turf Canada and the Western Canada Turf Association (WCTA) in the promotion of a Western Canada Turf Day in Calgary, Alberta.
4. The Association was represented at the Canadian Recreation Facility Council (CRFC) meeting in Ottawa, Ontario. We were involved in national discussions with members of the Senate, and the board of the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA) on a wide range of issues. By working together, we have been successful in leveraging our collective resources. It just makes sense to work in collaboration with others on projects and addressing issues within our industry with other industry partners.
We have set out to accomplish these 5 strategic objectives.
What an amazing year Recreation Facility Personnel (RFP) has experienced. We set out to achieve a number of significant strategic objectives and I am happy to highlight some of them here for you.
AARFP's STRATEGIC PLAN 2016 - 2018
continued...
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 13
5. RFP has been in discussions with Red Deer College (RDC) on a certification project for facility operators. We have had numerous meetings over the past year to work out the details of this joint project. We have come to an agreement and details on the program will be released in 2017.
6. In September, we launched an RFP e-newsletter called 'The RFP'. It has been successful and well received by our +1400 members.
7. We completed the marketing plan for the Association. This project was started a number of years ago, is now complete and is being used to promote the Association and our programs.
8. We initiated a complete organizational review of the Association and the associated processes and activities. Working with Zzeem Consulting, the board and administration looked at each of these areas:
a. Human Resource Management b. Planning c. Governance
d. Resource Management e. Revenue Diversification f. Member Value Proposition g. Sponsor Value Proposition and Stakeholder Relations
and Issues Management.
Using an evaluation matrix, our current activities, products and outcomes were compared to what an ideal Association's would look like. Like all evaluations, we did very well in some areas while we have work to do in others. This report now provides guidance to the board and staff as we continue to make improvements in the operation and activities of the Association.
9. Concerted effort has been invested into our course materials and delivery tools. Reviews and updates are being conducted on a number of courses and this work will continue until all of our course offerings have been updated.
It has been a successful year for the Association. We have accomplished a lot, achieving a number of our objectives. We look forward to another year of great success and achievements.
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 14
Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel(AARFP) Annual General Meeting (AGM) Report 2016
continued from page 13...
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I really appreciated the invitation to submit some thoughts and memories of my time with the Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel (RFP).
It's hard to believe our first meeting was 40 years ago. How things have changed!
It all started with a meeting of Central Alberta facility people in Red Deer. There were about 25 attending, but it was the spark that was needed to proceed.
The first meeting attracted about 90 facility people and there was a consensus that there was a definite need for an organization.
A committee was struck to discuss goals and aspirations and develop a constitution and bylaws. The membership fee was set at $5.00. The fee for municipalities and associates was $10.00.
Why did the organization come about? The Alberta Recreation Association (ARA) later to become the Alberta Recreation & Parks Association (ARPA) had been established in about 1950. Over time, the organization served recreation administrators well but was less than successful in serving the needs of those involved in facility operation and maintenance.
A few of us found that British Columbia had an organization that welcomed us at their meetings and workshops. In due course, a meeting was convened in Alberta to hear BC Association executives explain the merits of their Association. Those present were impressed with what BC had achieved and the Albertans present committed to form an Alberta association. The rest is history!
The success of our organization has been nothing short of phenomenal. We can look back on that success and forward to continue serving our members and communities well.
I believe our past achievements can be attributed in no small way to working hard, but also having fun. There will be lots of stories to be told at the forthcoming get together.
Congratulations to all of you for the excellent work you do as individuals and the excellent work being done by our organization.
We are privileged to be in a public service industry that has profound effect on people's lives. Take pride in what you do. Your services have a positive effect on the quality of life in
your community and make a difference in the lives of Albertans!
Don MooreFirst President, RFPLife Member of the Association
First RFP President Joins in Our CelebrationDon Moore
1991•
was:730 individual members47 associate members
1992• The William Metcalfe Award was
introduced at the 15th annual conference in Edmonton, AB
The Association membership
••
In the late 1940's and 1950's• The Alberta Recreation Executives
Association was formed (few municipalities had established recreation boards and even fewer had professional Recreation and Parks staff)
• The few facilities that did exist were located in the larger centres
1950's and 1960's• In the early 1960's the Alberta
Government recognized the need for community recreation services and provided grants to communities for facility development
In the 1970's• The Alberta Recreation & Parks
Association (ARPA) attempted to meet the needs of facility managers but it was the Recreation and Parks administrations who tended to represent the communities at ARPA - not facility staff
• People from Alberta started to attend meetings in British Columbia (Recreation Facility Association of BC (RFABC)
1973• The increase in facilities and the level
of sophistication in new facilities resulted in an increase in the number of people employed in work related to facility operation and maintenance
1976 (April)• A meeting was held in central Alberta
inviting facility staff from Alberta and a consultant from Alberta Recreation and Parks
• This meeting initiated 2 objectives:form a provincial association for facility operators with workable zones within the associationform an association of facility operators within their area and continue to promote provincial organization
• It was suggested that such an association be a specialized recreation oriented body, closely related to the ARPA. A commitment was made at that time to work closely with ARPA and the Areas and Facilities Planning section of Alberta, Recreation and Parks
• The group decided to operate under the wing of the B.C. Association until Alberta formed its own association
•
•
1977 (October)•
at the ARPA Conference (Lethbridge, AB)
There was a consensus that a separate organization should be formed to accommodate the needs of facility personnel
1978 (September)• Edmonton, Alberta became the
location for the first workshopThis workshop included the preparation and approval of a Constitution and BylawsThe first Board of Directors was electedThe Associates initially became involved in this workshop
1980 (April)• Don Moore recommended the
dissolution of the Alberta Zone as a zone of the B.C. AssociationThe Alberta Association had:
157 individual members15 associate members20 municipal members
1980 (July 14)• On July 14, 1980, the Alberta
Association of Recreation Facility Personnel became incorporated, as a not for profit association under the Societies Act of Alberta
Twenty-five (25) people got together
•
•
•
•
•••
1989•
500 individual members24 associate members22 municipal members
The designation for municipal membership was eliminated
The Association had over:•••
2001•
RFABC. They would use our course material and pay our association a royalty
• We began to expand our courses to take in curling rinks
• Special courses began to become a regular part of our operation
2002• Courses in the North-West Territories
were struck
2003• Talks with Lethbridge Community
College begin on certification in their diploma program
• Western Certification continues with other provinces
• The logo for the association was changed to a more professional modern looking logo
• Introduced the Parks and Sportsfield Level II Course at the Drumheller Conference
2004• Long-time Executive Director
Margaret Lounds retires.• A Building Maintenance Stream was
introduced with a Level 1 Course
2005• The office was relocated to a
recreation complex. This was done to allow for training to be done in house and for a better environment for the staff and members. Fifty courses were held and over 40 special courses
An agreement was struck with 2006•
was expanded to include a Level 2 Course, as well as a Custodial Course
2008• RFP has an annual membership of
over 1000 people for the first time with 1364 people signing up. We also have over 1000 people participate in our courses
• First educational symposium is run in the summer of 2008, giving people a chance to attend multiple courses in a short period of time in one location.
2009• RFP moves out of Calgary and into
Cochrane
2010• We host members from similar
associations in the western provinces and territories at the annual Western Canadian Recreation Facilities Council (CRFC) meeting
• We switch to an online version of our quarterly publication, Leisure Lines
The Building Maintenance Stream 2011•
Memorial Golf Tournament is held at the end of summer in Olds, Alberta. 44 People participated in this event
2012• Larry Golby steps down as Executive
Director. He finishes off the year in a Technical Director contract, coordinating the updates of the education material
• Kim Snell takes on the role of Executive Director
• Protocol Agreement with ARPA signed
2014• After 12 years serving as our
government liaison and many more representing our field throughout the country, Chris Szabo retires
• Executive Director Kim Snell leaves the organization
• Long-time member Stuart Ray is hired to the position of Executive Director
2015• After much thought and discussion an
idea for restructuring the Board is presented at the 2015 conference
• We had 787 individual members, 701 individuals under the facility membership and 80 Associate members for a total of 1568 second highest number of members in our history and only 5 off the record set in 2013
2016• The restructuring of the board and
revised bylaws were approved at the 2016 AGM
• Talks with Red Deer College (RDC) move forward about creating an RDC/RFP certification program
• A full-time Communications Coordinator is hired in June to implement new brand standards, improve the RFPs social media presence, and increase member engagement
The first annual Skip Hayden
The founders of the Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel (RFP) believed that the aim was to provide opportunities for the growth and development of recreation facility staff, and a more effective and efficient service to Alberta communities. They also believed that the Association could be the major communication link betweenmembers, government agencies and the communities they serve.
Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel (AARFP) History & Background
S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 17R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S PAGE 16
1994•
for Associate members
1995• Development of the Association
Home PageInstructor evaluations were conducted by an independent consultant
1996• The association became totally
responsible for all course administration
1997• Piloted Pool Operator Level I & II
combined
1998• Hired Technical Director to ease the
load on the Education Rep• Hired Office Administrator to assist
with increasing registrations in the office
2000• Thirty-four courses were run with a
total of 372 students trained
Development of the Code of Ethics
•
FEATURE STORY
FLASHBACK ASK AN EXPERT JUNE 1982| |
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 18
Few Tips for Maintenance DuringArena Shutdowns
My mouth gets me into more trouble. Sometime between the Associate's Wine and Cheese and the luncheon at our recent workshop, I was approached by a member of the Grande Cache Mountaineer to write a column on arena similar to Brian Sullivan's 'Slough Water Sully” and Randy Duncan's 'Pushin' Up Daisies'.
I told Debra that I really didn't have anything to write about and that my ability to crank out 1,000 words four times a year was a little suspect at best. She suggested that anyone that talked as much as I did should be able to write a few words down that were worth reading. She also added that “If Brian Sullivan could write a column, hell, anyone could.”
So here I am, my big chance to write for a newspaper. I've always had a secret desire to be published. I must admit I got a little carried away when they started talking money and found out later I could have got a better deal. Apparently, Randy is only paying $85 per article he has published. I am paying $110. So I may have to ask for donations from time to time.
Donations may be sent to 'Irish' Willie Jurcevic, c/o Calgary Parks and Recreation. Willie is my agent and has arranged for me to get 10 percent of all donations to help offset my costs of being published.
Sully has made an arrangement that doesn't involve any money, but every week he drives to Grande Cache to deliver the Mountaineer door-to-door. Not a bad deal Brian.
Now that the explanation of how I ended up as a feature writer for AARFP News has been taken care of, I'd like to tell you what I hope to accomplish with this column. I hope over the next year to address areas of concern, new ideas and pass on helpful tips related to arena operations. I am also open to suggestions or short printable stories.
I will try to keep the articles timely (ie. Discuss ice installation in September rather than March). With that in mind and knowing most arenas are in the shutdown period, I'd like to pass along a few tips for this time of year.
1. After the ice has been removed from the pad, check your floor for cracks, chips or rough areas. These irregularities may be caused by normal wear and tear or they could be the signs of major problems developing. It is a good idea to draw a sketch of the floor and update each year. These areas should be repaired. There are several good epoxy-based materials suitable for repairing these cracks on the market.
2. Check the brine line connections where they meet the main header both return and outgoing lines. Check your header trench for brine deposits. A screwdriver and a couple of hours of tightening clamps can save an expensive leak during the year. The main header, being constructed of steel, is subject to rusting. Painting the header yearly will prolong its life.
George Tomlinson
ARTIFICIAL TURF • HARDWOOD GYMNASIUM FLOORING • SYNTHETIC SPORTS FLOORING • ATHLETIC TRACKS • SPECTATOR SEATING • SCOREBOARD AND VIDEO DISPLAYS • MESSAGE
DISPLAYS • GYMNASIUM EQUIPMENT • RUBBER FITNESS ROOM FLOORING
continued...
Few Tips for MaintenanceDuring Arena Shutdowns
3. After you shut down the ice plant, draw a line on the brine balance sigh glass. This will give a fast check on whether you lose any brine during the shut-down period.
4. If you use a refrigeration company for start up the next couple of week is an excellent time to book them for your startup.
5. This is also the time to order new hockey nets. Pain walls and make sure your supply of tickets for public skating has been ordered.
6. Have you checked and repaired your board system? If you are using plastic boards and they're dirty and cut, don't throw them out – just turn them over, you'll get a couple more years out of them. They also make excellent kickplates for doors and thresholds for players' boxes.
7. This is also the time of the year to have your score clock and P.A. systems checked and cleaned.
8. Snowmelt pits and floor drains should also be flushed and cleaned thoroughly.
9. It is also a good idea to have an electrician take meter readings of all pumps and motors connected with the refrigeration system. These readings are normally taken prior to shut-down so the readings can be taken when the plant is under full load. These readings can point out equipment not operating correctly. The electrician should clean and tighten all connections in your main panel. This will remove any carbon build ups and assure all wires are connected properly.
When carrying out shutdown work, it is a good idea to list all work done any problems you had doing the work.
In Grande Prairie, we have developed a set procedure for shutdowns which allows us to schedule the work that must be done. It's by no means perfect, but we are getting better at performing the work in a more organized manner. It is modified each year to make it run smoother. Like any job the more preparation and thought that is invested initially the greater the chances for success.
Good luck with your shutdowns and have a good summer!
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continued from page 18...
FLASHBACK | ASK AN EXPERT | JUNE 1982
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Salt chlorine generation first became popular in Australia in the late 196s. To this day, 95% of Australian pools use salt chlorine generators to disinfect their pool water.
The first American-made product, The Lectranator was produced in the mid-1970s by “Diamond Shamrock” a chlor-alkali manufacturer. First models were crude in design, very inefficient and far from being cost effective.
Tremendous progress has been made over the past 20 years. Today's product provides us with the simplest, safest and most effective method of providing chlorine for ANY and ALL recreational water applications.
System components for all systems are:
1. A single or series of diagnostic control panels to monitor the manufacturing process.
2. A single or series of production cells. The cells are bi-polar in design (reversing polarity/self-cleaning). The cells are made up of the body (various shapes and sizes) and titanium plates covered with a metal oxide coating.
3. A single or series of flow detectors which automatically shut the system down in the event of no flow or low flow situations.
The process is simply chlorine manufactured on site! The process is similar to gas chlorine production, but on a much smaller scale. How does it work?
1. Salt is added to the water with a residual of 3,000 parts per million.
2. A single or series of control panels, production cells and flow detectors is installed, in a by-pass loop, in the effluent piping.
Canadian Arena Products specializes in providing the highest quality arena systems for indoor and outdoor facilities, including private backyard arenas!
OUR SPECIALTY PRODUCTS INCLUDE:
• Durable puckboard dasher boards• Electric lift gates• Sills and kickstrips• Players’ boxes• Soccer boards• Bleachers and seating• A f ull range of custom accessories
Enjoy a public or private arena constructed from quality products by an experienced and professional staff. Call today to get star ted on your custom arena project.
Phone:780-451-3800 | TollFree:1-888-200-2644
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• Galvanized steel-cladded frames
New Technologies in Disinfection
(from a presentation made to World Water Park Association, International Symposium, October 1998)
Charles Mousseau
FLASHBACK ASK AN EXPERT MARCH 1999| |
continued...
Longbow Sales Inc.#7, 1435 – 40th Ave NE
Calgary, Alberta T2E 8N6Tel: (403) 291-3166Fax: (403) 291-4774
Longbowsales inc.
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 21
3. A controlled water flow is directed through the system.
4. As water flows through the system, a low voltage DC current is applied to the plates.
5. Electricity + salt + water = chlorine + sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) and hydrogen.
Once the disinfection is completed, the chlorine reverts back to salt and carbon dioxide. The process is repeated over and over again. There is virtually no salt consumed in the production of chlorine. With caustic soda being one of the byproducts, the pH remains very stable and virtually unaffected. If ignored, it would rise to just above 8.0 and hold. No other form of chlorine even comes close to this near neutral pH. pH can be adjusted by using liquid or dry acid or, for total safety, carbon dioxide.
Salt is added initially at the rate of 250lbs per 10,000 US gallons of water. Additional salt is required only to make up for water lost through backwash, splash-out or that which is carried out on bather' bodies and clothing. We are not dealing with ocean water, where salt levels range between 40,000 and 60,000 parts per million. We are establishing and maintain a 3,000 parts per
million salt level. This is well below the taste threshold and absolutely non-corrosive.
Although this type of salt will allow the system to produce chlorine, we strongly recommend the use of a blended salt product, which will allow the system to operate at peak efficiency, with no undesirable side effects. Certain types of salt contain impurities or other chemical additives. These may cause:
Staining (from iron) and/orPremature cell wear and/orAdverse effects on the operation of an auto controller if the salt contains iodine, which is a halogen
•••
New Technologies in Disinfectioncontinued from page 20...
FLASHBACK | ASK AN EXPERT | MARCH 1999
FLASHBACK PAST CONFERENCES APRIL 1987| |
“What a fantastic time to be alive!” to quote John Nasbett of Megatrend fame.
What a fantastic time to be part of one of the most exciting and challenging professions in the leisure business. As leaders in the recreation facility management field, we have the opportunity to influence the quality of life in our communities; I believe it is also our responsibility.
Our conference theme was “Reflections and Aspirations”, therefore it is certainly appropriate to look back at where we've been in the last 10 years and then to look at the kind or organization we will need to become and what skills as individuals we will need to provide a high level of service and excellence in the community.
The Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel was born out of a need for individuals in the recreation facility management business to come together to share common issues and concerns, to share ideas and information, to provide opportunities for growth and development and to provide a more effective and efficient service in the community.
This need was identified during a period of rapid economic growth in Alberta and we prospered in our business with tremendous development of public, semi-public and private leisure facilities. This was the era of the Major Recreation/Cultural Facility Development program which saw $100/ capita pumped in capital facilities and park development. This period also marked the birth of games for all ages, abilities and disabilities, for fun as well as competition. Alberta hosted several major athletic events including Canada Winter Games in Lethbridge, Universiade, and the Commonwealth Games in Edmonton; Calgary won the bid for the 1988 Winter Olympics. Smaller municipalities played host to regional and Alberta Games. The Urban Parks program resulted in development of outstanding parks in a number of municipalities.
This period left us with a legacy of facilities/parks envied throughout the country.
We now have over 430 ice rinks, 350 curling rinks, 400 swimming pools and hundreds of community halls, several “handfuls” of specialized facilities – zoos, historical sites, golf courses, cemeteries. Still in, of “more or less” greater reliance on user pay, less reliance on government funds to sustain services and popularization of contracting out privatization. At the same time, we see individuals wanting to take charge of their lives and wanting to participate in decision-making on issues and services that affect them. We see
Keynote address, Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel (RFP), April 29, 1987
Wanda Wetterberg
Managers Influence Quality of Life
major lifestyle changes: more people wanting to be fit, over 50 percent of women in the workforce, pursuit of education, demand for low-cost, lifetime recreation activities, sizeable unemployment, growth in the numbers of people socially and economically disadvantaged, demands for recreation services from a broader range of groups (multicultural and arts).
What has the Association accomplished during this period of change?
In 10 years since the founding meeting in Lethbridge in 1977, the Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel (AARFP) has a list of accomplishments of which to be proud. The membership is over 250, with a strong following from associate members. The six year old newsletter Leisure Lifelines, is a quality publication. There are recognition and scholarship programs in place for members. Our Association has been active in review of provincial aquatic legislation, development of the Alberta Recreation and Parks Policy Statement and arena/pool operator training. A Master Plan is in place for the Association. There have now been 10 annual workshops. These accomplishments have all been achieved by volunteers and our membership fees have remained low in relation to other organizations. The Association has kept pace with change.
I believe that in the next 10 years, the Association will have to play an increasing role in the recreation field by becoming an advocate for issues affecting facilities and broadening the membership base beyond pools and arenas, by acting as a clearing house for sharing of innovations and new technologies and by continuing to provide “first rate” training and development opportunities for members.
In our efforts to be effective managers, we at times forget that our primary goal in recreation is human development through the activities or opportunities we provide to those we offer services. We exist to meet a need, not to operate a facility. We market to excite people to participate in our programs, not solely to increase revenues. We optimize, maximize and minimize to provide the best services possible at acceptable costs.
What a fantastic time to be alive!
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FLASHBACK PAST CONFERENCES|
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FLASHBACK IN THE WORKPLACE JUNE 1990| |
Do you remember what a cup of coffee cost in 1977? Or that children's swimming classes were $7.50 for ten lessons. Who were the Stanley and Grey Cup champions for that year?
Gasoline was $0.40 a gallon, a pack of cigarettes $0.70 and you could go to a movie for $2.50 or enjoy public skating at local indoor arenas for $0.50. Swimming pools were run by “managers” who spent 60% of their time in a lifeguard chair while racquetball courts were hard to get on weekends or evenings.
Alberta was, in fact, enjoying boom times in the 70s primarily because of an insatiable and intense exploration and production thirst that was partially out of control. In Edmonton, union wages for arena and pool staff were increased by 11.8% for 1975/75 and 13% for 1980/81. The prestigious Commonwealth Games were coming to Edmonton and many new megabuck facilities were planned to host a variety of events; certainly, exciting times for people working in recreation facilities. New, multipurpose buildings were sprouting, providing a variety of interesting and challenging job opportunities and improved leisure facilities for the public.
While function for their time the ordinary box-like arena or 'L' shaped swimming pool designs of the 50s and 60s fell by the wayside as architects were challenged by fierce competition to be innovative, creative and plain bold in their presentations to capture a portion of the huge capital development program dollars.
The cause of this tremendous growth in building construction was the establishment of the Provincial Government Major Cultural Recreation Grant Program in 1973. This program provided a $100,00 per capita available for 10 years. With that kind of financial support, municipalities jumped on the bandwagon and significant progress in the development of recreation or other public assembly buildings was to become a reality throughout Alberta.
Demand on available human resources within the recreation industry increased substantially in light of the tremendous growth and in particular development of recreation and leisure facilities. Yes, life was exciting during the 70s but, like the price of a cup of coffee, things change!
Many of you were employed during those fast-paced years and in retrospect I think you will agree that managers were not prepared to deal with the issue of human resources in the 80s. Technology and computers were advancing at an enormous pace and terms like “facility managers”, “marketing supervisors” “energy conservation” and “automation” were buzz words at the time.
But what were we doing to meet the inevitable changes in our industry? All was not lost and, in fact, I
think we survived very well. There were some who decided to do something a little special, much earlier than you may have realized but this happening was the beginning!
It was in 1972 the B.C Recreation Facility Association took a rather unusual step and formed an Alberta zone of their organization and the first zone meeting was chaired by Hobie Clarke of Edmonton. He and other notable gentlemen such as Don Moore, participated actively in Association and Zone activities. As we moved into the mid-70s the demand for training and development continued to increase and it became clear that to satisfy the need, Alberta had to develop high quality and accessible training courses that could accommodate larger numbers of people at reasonable cost.
However, the serious work of establishing an independent thAlberta Facilities Association started April 28 , 1976 at a
meeting that was convened in Wetaskiwin at the initiation of George Thomlison of that city and Neil Garvin of Red Deer. Dave Rudge, a consultant with Alberta Recreation, Parks and Wildlife, attended along with facility people from Camrose, Leduc, Red Deer, Olds, Ponoka, Sherwood Park, Innisfail and Wetaskiwin. It is important to note that this group set the following objectives that they felt an Alberta Association should adopt:
• To provide courses and seminars in cooperation with Recreation and Parks and Wildlife
• Exchange information of an administrative or technical nature
• Improve lines of communications• Provide input into planning and design of recreation
facilities• To promote the continued and extended use of recreation
facilities through the use of proper management
During the next year, there were undoubtedly a number of meetings and discussions that took place. Don Moore maintained a link with ARPA and in their 1977 Fall Conference in Lethbridge, time was provided to hold forum specifically to debate the proposal to form an independent “facility association”. Many veteran members feel this was the pivotal meeting in the history of the Association.
Following that meeting, momentum and enthusiasm grew and a founding Board of Directors (too numerous to list here) was established in January 1978. This was an unofficial group but emulating from it was a steering committee whose purpose was to structure and initiate a survey targeting facility operators, with
Don Moore of Red Deer as Chairman. As a direct result of that survey this group organized and hosted the first Conference at the Convention Inn South, Edmonton. It was now September 1978.
(to be continued next issue).
R F P L E I S U R E L I N E S S P R I N G I S S U E • M A R C H 2 0 1 7PAGE 26
Bill Metcalfe
There is no Future Without a Past
Sexual harassment in the workplace is a real event! What is sexual harassment? Does a whistle, cat call or invitation for a drink after work constitute sexual harassment?
These actions, when considered individually without “strings” attached in most instances probably will be harmless. But when such actions become a pattern or escalate to explicit sexual remarks, propositions or physical contact, there is a much clearer case for harassment. And advances that are unwanted or affect an employment decision begin to resemble the criteria of prohibited actions as defined by the EEOC.
When considering an allegation of harassment, the EEOC will look for:
1. Sexual conduct where its submission is directly or indirectly made a condition of employment; or
2. Employment decisions affecting the recipient which are made on the basis of the recipient's rejection or acceptance of sexual conduct; or
3. Conduct which has the intent or effect of substantially interfering with an individual's job performance or creates an intimidating or even an offensive work environment.
What can the supervisor do? One personnel management authority suggests supervisors recognize the basis for any employment decision should be skills and abilities of the employee, without consideration to race, religion, or sex. If the company forbids sexual harassment your actions should reflect the policy. Social interaction among your employees is an important part of the working environment, but it must contribute to productivity and avoid unwanted flirtations.
If a female employee has a complaint, listen and express a willingness to resolve the problem.
Get the facts. As a member of management, you have an obligation to deal with a situation that affects morale and productivity. From the charging party, find out what was said or done. In what context, did this occur? Could the incident be a misunderstanding? Did it occur once or on repeated occasions?
Seek corroborating information. Taking care to avoid a “witch hunt”, identify other evidence which supports or refutes the allegation. Were there witnesses? Does either party have a reputation of “tease” or “playboy”? If the allegation is against another supervisor, is there any indication of higher than normal transfers or
to other policies or disciplinary procedures. Consider the options such as, a warning, transfer, termination or perhaps just employee counselling.
Remember: Sexual harassment is not only contrary to government regulations but is also a very alarming experience for the person making the allegation. Considerable tact will be necessary to achieve an equitable resolution.
*Editor's Note, April 2017: If you've told your employer that you're a victim of sexual harassment and your employer fails to take action, you can make a complaint to the Alberta Human Rights Commission. You must do this within one year of the event. It's against the law for your employer to take action against you if you make your complaint in good faith.
Visit the Alberta Human Rights Commission website at albertahumanrights.ab.ca or call the Commission's confidential inquiry line at
Call: 780-427-7661 north of Red DeerOr Call: 403-297-6571 Red Deer southOr Call: 310-0000 toll free, and enter the 10-digit regional office number after the prompt
Remember—you have the right to work or go to school in an environment where you feel safe and respected.
FLASHBACK IN THE WORKPLACE FEB 1982| |
William S. Hubbart
Sexual Harassment in theWorkplace Is Real
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FLASHBACK PAST RFP LEISURE LINES|
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