| All things WRPA! |
City of Carnation Celebrates Grand Opening of New Pump Track
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Spokane Valley Unveils New Cross-Country Running Venue
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Spokane Valley’s new cross-country running venue recently hosted its first event, marking an exciting milestone for the region. Located on 46 acres along the Spokane River, the course winds through grassy meadows, rocky outcrops, and mature Douglas firs, offering scenic river views throughout. Designed to support competitive events and spectators alike, this new venue is a major addition to the area and is expected to attract athletes and visitors from across the region.
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Spotlight Professional - Stacey Allington
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Recreation Supervisor with Vancouver Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services
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Stacey Allington is a Recreation Supervisor with Vancouver Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services, with nearly 28 years of experience. A dedicated WRPA leader, she is inspired by creative, inclusive programming and is proud of the lasting community impact her team makes through innovative recreation opportunities.
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NRPA Announces Vernā Myers as the Keynote Speaker for the 2023 NRPA Annual Conference
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Find Your WRPA Network
Connect with professionals who do the same work you do. WRPA Networks offer a space to collaborate, share ideas, and build lasting connections. Join a network to stay inspired, informed, and supported in your career.
By joining a WRPA Network, you’ll gain:
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Meaningful Connections: Build relationships with peers who do the same work you do.
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Ongoing Support: Tap into the knowledge and experience of fellow professionals through regular meetings and online discussions.
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Renewed Passion: Surround yourself with others who inspire, motivate, and help you grow in your career.
Stay Connected with Network E-Lists
Each WRPA Network has an e-list, a group email tool for members to share updates, ask questions, and collaborate easily. No login required! View the step-by-step video below.
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Register now for the 2026 WRPA Conference and Tradeshow in Tacoma, WA, April 21–24!
Secure your spot and early bird pricing before January 26, 2026. Join us for networking, learning, and fun. We can’t wait to see you!
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MLS GO PLAY FUND - NRPA Grant
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NRPA is partnering with MLS GO and RCX Sports to distribute up to $100,000 through the MLS GO PLAY FUND to support local park and recreation agencies.
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Announcements & Highlights
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You Deserve Some Recognition
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Showcase your 2025 accomplishments! Submit your nomination for a program, facility, or initiative you’ve helped bring to life. Get it in before the holidays! Submissions close on January 8, 2026.
SUBMIT TODAY
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2026-2027 Board Nominations Still Open
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Submit Your Nominations by January 19
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WRPA members, the 2026–2027 Board Call for Nominations is still open. If you have been a member for at least one year, now is your chance to help shape A More Inclusive Future by serving as Vice President, Director At Large, or Regional Director. Nominate yourself or a fellow member before the holidays to make an impact.
STEP UP TODAY
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2026 Parks & Recreation Management Leadership Academy (PRMLA)!
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Applications Are Now Open
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The 2026 Parks & Recreation Management Leadership Academy (PRMLA) program helps current and aspiring public-sector parks and recreation leaders build practical leadership, risk management, and team performance skills through hands-on learning and cohort collaboration.
Dates: Mar 16–17, Apr 22–23, and May 20 (with virtual sessions in between).
Spots are limited. Apply by Friday, January 16, 2026.
LEARN MORE AND APPLY
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Discover the Benefits of WRPA Membership
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WRPA offers year-round opportunities to learn, connect, and grow through:
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Access to industry resources, a job board, member directory, discounts, and awards programs
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Networking through regional groups and interest-based professional networks
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Training, including our Annual Conference, CPSI certification, Fall Training, and CEU-eligible workshops
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Advocacy with legislative updates, training, and representation in Olympia
Whether you're an emerging professional or a seasoned leader, WRPA has something for you.
LEARN MORE
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Be Featured in the Next Newsletter
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WRPA Wants to Feature You!
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We’re looking for content for our newsletter and social media, including:
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How Do You Recreate? – Share how you stay active! Whether it’s hiking, running, or simply enjoying your local park, send us a photo and a brief description of your favorite way to recreate.
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Spotlight Professional – We want to highlight members from all backgrounds and experiences. Interested in being featured? Complete this Word Doc form and email it to [email protected].
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Photo of the Month – Send us your best shot and we'll feature it on the Photo of the Month section.
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Email submissions to [email protected] for a chance to be featured in the newsletter and on social media!
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Follow WRPA on Facebook and Instagram to never miss an update!
- Follow us today and engage with our posts
- Share your thoughts and comments
- Tag us in your photos and stories
- Be the first to know WRPA news and updates
Be a part of our growing, vibrant online community!
FACEBOOK
INSTAGRAM
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Auburn Veterans Parade: 60 Years of Honor
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Since 1965, Auburn has honored veterans with its iconic Main Street Parade. Join us Saturday, Nov. 8 at 11 a.m. to pay tribute to veterans and active military members. This year marks the 60th anniversary of one of the largest veterans parades in the U.S., featuring nearly 5,000 participants and 200 units—including military vehicles, marching bands, ROTC, and community groups.
The day begins with a community breakfast at 7–9 a.m. at the Auburn Senior Activity Center, followed by a Remembrance Ceremony and Lighting of the Flame at Veterans Memorial Park at 9:45 a.m. Food trucks will be available along the parade route from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and a post-parade lunch will honor Outstanding Service to Veterans Award winners.
The 11 a.m. parade kicks off with a flyover and includes dignitaries, military leaders, and more than 15 marching bands, including America’s First Corps Band and Navy Band Northwest. Don’t miss the antique military vehicles, ROTC units, and a replica Nimitz-class aircraft carrier.
Spectators are encouraged to check the website for additional event details: www.auburnwa.gov/vets.
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WRPA is a membership-driven organization. By sharing your energy and expertise, you can help make WRPA an even more effective professional resource.
Become a volunteer and help WRPA grow. Learn more about valuable opportunities today!
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Thank You Renewing Members
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Agency Members:
- City of Lake Stevens
- Samena Club
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Individual Members:
- Central Klickitat County Parks & Rec.
- City of Cheney Parks & Recreation Department
- City of Port Angeles
- Puyallup School District
- South Kitsap School District
- South Whidbey Parks & Recreation
- Seattle Public Schools
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Member Data from October - December 2025
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