2005_0926_Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Minnesota Recreation and ParkAssociation 2005 Award of Excellence I�oseville Parks an�l Aecreatio�� — I-Vild I��ce l�esfizv�l �: � � �'� {' �l��a�� e��gti � , :�,:��. T� �� txez�d toward reduced operating budgets far tl�.e management of community services and amenities sig��ificantty unpacYed ;I�t 2004 IIata:�et Alexander Nature Center budget. Tlze year began with a d�-eciive to "change how we do business" at WANC and progressed into a growing public awareness of �1;� z�eed for increased financia% support from ille Friends of Roseville's Harriet Alexander Nature Center (FQl2�-IANC) and otl�er supporting arganizations. • • V'{U...�{• L , • • . • �:��.r,'�•ti.?M1:=1.._. � . � � � .� �-��•, � - -�� . K'� . : � ' �.r•�'' • -. .. � . �:" .. . .. . ,._. .- Nature Center staff and � Q�R�[ S_,�4NC hoard ��e�a�be�s put'lieir heads �.ti17:1 hearts together ta chaY�z�c.}. energies a1�d loyalties into the creation of a unique, interactive fall festival at the Harriet Alexander Nature Center, a WildRice �'esttiral. An enthusiastic arganizing co�x�tnittee developed a concept, set goals and established a strong foundation far an emerging, annual coininunit�r event. Fundamental goals mere established far the W.rld �rce Festrval providitlg needed guidance far event development; � To provide environmental educational experiences and demonstrate traditional ivlinn�sota cultures featuring native, regional plant7ngs and natural l�isto�y. • To improve the visibility of tlie Nature Center in the �:tti: �'1777'i1:7;:�: _ • To establish an annual fundtaising event to itxzprove the quality of operations at H.!-1NG and to suppart Nature Center exhibits and programs. The �zld Rice Festrva! coiacept evolved around the need to ereate an event tlaat hi�hlighted the unique qualities of the Harriet Alexander Nature Center and establish a niche in the coinmuz�ity. The mild rice tl�.eine was selected for tl�e folloc�ulg reasons; • Wild rice grows in marshes — HANC sits on mostly marsh land. + Wild rice is a native plant important to wildlife and to the health of wetland ecosystems. Wild rice has a sttong cultural significance far Native Americans in �i��nesota thus providing an opportunity far coi��nulZtty connections and an occasion far added cultural histoiy and an expanded educational repertoire. Planning cola1�raittce members fasluoned an exciting day ��ed �.1•'ti 1 � fa�r�ily focused events based on wild rice �zezi�ed foods and activities. The day began wxt�lz a wild rice pancake breakfast. The morning and afternoon was �i.l.led with wild rice demonstrations, wild rice treats, fund raising events (silent auction and book fair) and samplings of Native .c1�x�exzcaz� music, dance, storytelling, activities and arts. The day concluded with a faz�ily style dinner featuring a inenu of wild rice based dishes fioz�z start to �i��sh. In conclusion, the i�zld Rice .�''PSt,it�al was successful oz� multiple levels; � Provided a bonding experience far the Nature Center con-�rnu�aity, �ii�z�ng Cei�t�� advocates and City staff together to create a memarable event. r Bestowed a significantfit�ancial coiat�ibui�ai�, to the nature center operating fund. • Introduced visitars to uivque educational programs, recreational e�pe�:ie��ces, and Native American culture. + Inereased va�uzateet i1��Tolveme��t and Center visibility.