Features Learning Under Fire 12 Hosting a National Tournament can be Daunting but Extremely Satisfying -by Kimberly Smith IAPD/IPRA Conference 2006 17 Pre-Conference Brochure and Registration Special Focus Taking the Pulse of the Community 48 How the Park District of Oak Park Involved the Community in Planning the Village's Future Recreational Opportunities — by Diane Stanke, CPRP, and David T. Kindler Partnering for Better Parks and Recreation 56 — by Ann Austin Arts in the Parks- A Time Honored Tradition 64 Enrich Your Arts Programing with Support from the Illinois Arts Council — by Ann Ridge

ON THE COVER Day camp has always been a place where kids form their own community dedicated to the pursuit of summer fun. The Park District of Franklin Park's Nicole Stark captured that sense of camaraderie in this photo "Day Camp 2003." Her picture won second prize in the Recreation category in the 2003 "Give Us Your Best Shot" photo contest. To find out how you can eneter images in the 2005 contest, please check the IAPD Web site at www.ILparks.org. Departments From the Editor 4 Get on Board 6 The Board Member's Creed Can Get You Ready for Effective Board Service Eye on the Profession 8 IPRA is Moving Forward... Literally Statehouse Insider 10 Governor Blagojevich Signs Park District Legislation People and Places 71