IPR Conference draws record crowd

Bonnie Noble, president of the Peoria Park District, is honored by the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD)as "Commissioner of the Year." IAPD Pres. Ralph Cianchetti presents the Allan Welssburg Award.

A record number of delegates, speakers, guests and exhibitors participated in the 1987 Illinois Park and Recreation Conference held last November at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare in Rosemont.

They were offered eight pre-conference workshops, 85 educational sessions, seven conference workshops, seven potpourri sessions and 143 exhibits. In addition, participants were treated to a Beach Party, which replaced the traditional Saturday evening banquet.

These pictures recapture some of those moments.

The Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) honors Gerald M. Oakes (right), director of the Arlington Heights Park District, with the Robert M. Artz Award. IPRA Pres. Robert "Skip" Dunsmuir makes the presentation.

The Country Companies are recognized for their sponsorship of the Fitness Is Leading The Way activities which opened the 1987 Illinois State Fair. Jim Williams (left), associate director of community education for the Country Companies, accepts congratulations from Gary Baker, assistant director of the Canton Park District, who chaired the event for the IAPD and the IPRA. Baker received the IPRA President's Award. (Staff photos)

Illinois Parks and Recreation 4 January/February 1988

A record number of displays attract conference goers to the Exhibit Hall.

Mick Pope (above), director of the Elmhurst Park District, is the recipient of IPRA's Fellow Award. The IPRA names Rick Bemm (below), director of the Dundee Township Park District, as the winner of its Professional Recognition Award.

The Glencoe Park District celebrates its 75th anniversary with special recognition from the IAPD. Representing the district are (from the left) Mike Kudla, assistant director/recreation facilities; Paul Leeds, commissioner; Hilary Lee, vice-president, and Tom Richardson, director. A complete list of IAPD/IPRA award recipients appears on pages 30 and 31.

State Sen. Phil Rock (D-Oak Park), left, is the Associations' Legislator of the Year. Rock offers ongoing support for, and sponsorship of, legislation promoting park districts, and the quality of life that recreation and open spaces provide for Illinois residents. He is joined by IAPD Exec. Dir. Ted Flickinger (center) and State Conservation Dir. Mark Frech.

Illinois Parks and Recreation 29 January/February 1988