By Ted Flickinger Managing Editor

It's almost State Conference time again, and after you read about the exciting agenda, there's no way that you'll miss this year's event November 19-22 at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare. Conference Co-chairs Linda Wander and John Wilson preview Catch the Leisure Wave in their article beginning on page four.

In addition, Karl Cloninger provides a special guide for those professionals who are attending a conference for the first time.

This issue of the IPR also includes a story about the Champaign and Urbana Park District's joint efforts with local residents and businesses to promote a safe Halloween for area children. Bob Toalson's article outlines the steps in what has been a most successful venture.

Fitness lead the way to the 1987 Illinois State Fair, and IPR editor Barb Valiukenas recaps the cooperative efforts of the Country Companies, the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD), and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA). Three teams of athletes crisscrossed the State to deliver a message about the importance of mental and physical fitness.

There's a unique fishing derby being repeated in Prophetstown, and Kim Meyers explains why this winter event was so successful when it premiered last year. Also, this issue pays special tribute to those park and recreation professionals who have attained professional certification. They are a major reason why Illinois continues to be the national leader in the park and recreation field.

All roads lead to the Hyatt, and I look forward to seeing you there!

The cover photograph, "Golden Maples," was taken by Doranne Jacobson, a Springfield (IL) photographer, writer and editor. © Doranne Jacobson.

Illinois Parks and Recreation 5 September/October 1987