Aten-Wa Theba is the General Manager of Venture Bikes Midtown and a 2023 graduate of St. Paul Academy & Summit School. A passionate advocate for equitable access to outdoor spaces, Aten-Wa has been immersed in Minnesota’s parks and trails since childhood. As Head Coach for snowboarding and cycling with Melanin in Motion, he has helped lead efforts to provide inclusive outdoor experiences for youth, women, and families of color. Through programs in snow sports, hiking, and cycling, Aten-Wa supports community wellness and fosters multigenerational connections to nature. He is committed to ensuring all communities have access to Minnesota’s green spaces, recognizing their importance in physical, emotional, and spiritual development. Aten-Wa brings a fresh, youth-driven perspective to the Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota, along with a deep personal investment in the future of outdoor equity and stewardship across the state.
Chuck Sekora is an attorney with Barna, Guzy & Steffen, Ltd., and a certified Real Property Law Specialist through the Minnesota State Bar Association. He earned his law degree from William Mitchell College of Law and holds a bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University. A long-time resident of Minnesota, he is deeply committed to public service, having served on the board of directors for Alexandra House, Inc. for six years and for Judicare of Anoka County, Inc. for 24 years. He has also contributed pro bono legal services to the Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota and currently serves on its Land Committee. An avid outdoors enthusiast, he enjoys time at his cabin in Schroeder and exploring Minnesota’s Great Outdoors. His passion for protecting natural spaces drives his continued dedication to the Parks & Trails Council. He is a member of the Minnesota State Bar Association and St. Stephen’s Catholic Church.
Notice of this ballot was sent to all the members of Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota (P&TC) in accordance with Sections 2.09 and 3.02 of P&TC Bylaws and applicable Minnesota law. The subject matter of this Ballot is to elect directors to the Board.
Section 2.09 of the Bylaws provides that any action that may be taken at an annual or special meeting of the members may be taken without a meeting by written ballot. Section 3.02 of the Bylaws provides that the Board of Directors must be elected to a first or second three-year term by the membership.
The members are asked to accept or reject the 2 nominees for the Board recommended by the Nominating Committee.
Responses from at least 50 members are needed to meet the quorum. Approval of a majority of the ballots received by P&TC must be cast in favor of the Proposed Action in order for such action to take effect. Section 3.02 of the P&TC Bylaws provides that the members: (i) shall accept or reject the slate of nominees presented by the Nominating Committee; and (ii) shall not have the right to nominate additional candidates for the Board, or to accept or reject some, but not all, of the nominees presented by the Nominating Committee.
Ballots must be received by P&TC on or before 9/17/25 to be counted.
Ballots received by P&TC prior to 9/17/25 may not be revoked or changed at any time.
Members of Parks & Trails Council of Minnesota are welcome and encouraged to vote on the election of our board of directors by choosing one of the following two options below.