Congress & Expo October 12-16, 2004 Reno/Tahoe, Nevada

Parks & Recreation, July, 2004

Letter from the Executive Director

The National Recreation and Park Association's 39th annual Congress & Exposition is drawing near, and it is with great excitement that I urge you to make your plans now to join us for an inspiring week of education, community and rejuvenation.

We are all united in our labor for a healthier, happier society; our commitment to the encouragement and development of today's youth; and, of course, our passion for parks and recreation. Our role in helping the nation address critical health and societal issues calls us to continue to work together toward providing sustainable solutions. And we're making progress. We've been working hard in Washington, D.C., to further relevant legislation, including the Transportation Enhancement Act for the 21st Century and the Land and Water Conservation Fund. We've expanded our communication efforts to educate the public about the importance of parks and recreation by partnering with leaders such as Sports Illustrated magazine. And we continue to work hard to educate all members on the many issues we face today. That is why your participation in this year's event is so important.

Year after year, the NRPA Congress & Exposition creates the time and space for members to meet face-to-face to strategize for a better tomorrow and learn from each other. This year we have more than 190 CEU-authorized education sessions designed to help professionals and citizens at all levels advance their careers and better serve their communities. Our exhibit hall is full of new and exciting solutions to meet all of your needs--small or large, urban or suburban. And beautiful, exhilarating Reno is the perfect backdrop for creating new friendships and rekindling old.

Together, we are working for a better tomorrow.

I look forward to seeing you in Reno.

Sincerely,

John A. Thorner, CAE

Executive Director

NRPA Congress Highlights

Altitude Adjustment

Whether your poison is a relaxing round of golf or hiking along a pristine mountain stream, you'll find the Reno/Lake Tahoe area to be nature's playground. And with more than 300 days of sunshine a year, you're sure to return healthy, rested and restored.

NRPA Opening General Session

Wednesday, October 13 2:00 PM-3:30 PM

Always compelling. Always provocative.

Year after year, the Opening General Session of Congress attracts the brightest, most authoritative voices from the world of recreation and leisure services. From ESPN anchorwoman Robin Roberts to climber Tom Whittaker, the first amputee to summit Mt. Everest, to U.S. Surgeon General Vice Admiral Richard Carmona, the annual event's keynote speakers exemplify the inspiration, breadth of real-life ideas and subject matter that NRPA delivers to its members on a daily basis.

Gold Medal-National Awards Recognize excellence. Celebrate achievement.

The Gold Medal Awards honor the nation's outstanding community agencies for excellence in the field of parks and recreation. NRPA's National Awards recognize those individuals and organizations whose activities have advanced the public's appreciation and enjoyment of parks and recreation. Award winners are an inspiration to their profession, and to the parks and recreation movement nationwide. This year, both Gold Medal and National Awards will be presented during the Opening General Session. Come and cheer on your colleagues and friends during this special celebration.

NRPA National Programs Partnering for a better future.

Meet with representatives from national organizations such as the USTA, NFL, PGA, Sports Illustrated and others at the NRPA Community Sports and Health Zone in the Exhibit Hall. Learn about new program resources, national initiatives and grant opportunities. Explore the many ways NRPA is working with park and recreation agencies and national partners to address the issues of lifelong health, quality sports and youth development.

NRPA Social Activities

Welcome Social

Wednesday, October 13 5:30 PM-7:30 PM Reno-Sparks Convention Center

The Wild Wild West

Year after year, the Welcome Social is the place to be after the official start of Congress. There's no better way to kick-off your 2004 Congress experience than by tipping your hat to Nevada's wild past. Mingle with colleagues and friends amid festive sierra decor, enjoy fine Southwestern cuisine and barbecue, and chart your course for the busy week to come.

All Congress Social

Friday, October 15 7:30 PM-10:00 PM Reno Hilton

Experience America's Adventure Place

Join us for the party and experience all the adventure that Reno/Tahoe has to offer. Enjoy summer adventures in the Sierra such as surfing, rock climbing, jet-skiing, golfing and more. Then see what Reno/Tahoe has to offer during the winter months as you encounter virtual skiing, snowboarding and mountain climbing. Top it all off with live entertainment, high sierra barbecue and some rockin' dance music for a spectacular event. This showcase of Reno/Tahoe, America's Adventure Place, will be an event to remember!