Dean Tice, Executive Director for the National Recreation and Parks Association was presented with a special recognition award, along with a $2,000 contribution to the "R. Dean Tice Creative Opportunities Endowment Trust Fund."

GREEN BAY, Wisc. - The Wisconsin Parks and Recreation Association held their annual conference beginning on November 6, 2000.

The President's All Conference Social was held at the Packer Hall of Fame, in which delegates had sole use of the facility. The over 200 delegates were entertained throughout the night with complimentary refreshments, displays, gift shop, and interactive games. Packer movies, games and displays provided memorable moments for all of those in attendance.

The next day the WPRA Annual Business Meeting took place. WPRA President Ken LePine conducted the Annual Meeting where numerous items were approved, including the 2001 budget, 2001 Board of Directors, amendment change to allow for a new membership category-Office Support, and a brief update on Section and Committee reports for the year.

The "Kick-Off" Session was led by motivational speaker and former NFL Official Jerry Markbreit. Markbreit challenged the delegates to focus on achieving the important elements of their careers and lives.

Following the keynote session, 330 delegates attended the Wednesday Awards Luncheon where 10 and 25-year service recognition awards were presented. In the afternoon, delegates attended the largest trade show in WPRA's history, with over 140 commercial and educational exhibitors and over 450 delegates in attendance.

The 35th Annual Awards Banquet was held on Thursday night. Dean Tice, Executive Director for the National Recreation and Parks Association was presented with a special recognition award, along with a $2,000 contribution to the R. Dean Tice Creative Opportunities Endowment Trust Fund. WPRA recognized Dean Tice for his 15 years of leadership to the national and state associations, and for making the WPRA "the best we can be in our profession."