SR0256 98TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0256 LRB098 11843 GRL 45021 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) is recognizing a momentous hallmark in its exceptional years of service by celebrating its 85th anniversary during 2013; and

WHEREAS, The Illinois Association of Park Districts represents more than 2,100 locally elected officials and serves more than 360 park districts, forest preserves, conservation, recreation, and special recreation agencies throughout the State of Illinois; and

WHEREAS, During the past 85 years, thousands of elected park officials have selflessly embraced the meaning of true volunteerism, dedicating countless hours of service and contributing their wisdom, talents and resources to the Illinois Association of Park Districts and to improving the quality of life in the communities they represent; and

WHEREAS, Throughout its 85-year history, the Illinois Association of Park Districts has advanced its member agencies, their citizen board members, and professional staff through education, research, and advocacy in order to enhance their ability to provide outstanding park and recreation opportunities, preserve natural resources, and improve the quality of life for all people in Illinois; and

WHEREAS, As a result of their collaborative efforts, millions of Illinois citizens of all ages enjoy access to high quality, affordable recreational facilities, parks, and programs, including more than 3,800 baseball and softball fields, 3,700 playgrounds, 3,100 miles of recreational trails, 2,600 tennis courts, 1,600 soccer fields, 670 aquatic facilities, 600 fishing areas, 460 football fields, 140 golf courses, 110 museums, 90 campgrounds, and numerous botanic and community gardens, natural areas, skate parks, and other recreational areas; and

WHEREAS, IAPD's steadfast determination in establishing and securing dedicated funding for parks, recreation, and conservation, such as the OSLAD grant program, has resulted in an investment of more than three quarters of a billion dollars in Illinois' recreational infrastructure and protected more than 10,000 acres of open space for public parks, recreation, and conservation; and

WHEREAS, Eighty-five years after the Illinois Association of Park Districts was formed, the spirit and commitment to excellence of the Association is strong with an active and dedicated board of trustees and staff whose energy, enthusiasm, and perseverance to make Illinois a better place to live, work, and play is an inspiring example to all; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE NINETY-EIGHTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we designate Wednesday, May 1, 2013 as Parks and Park District Day in the State of Illinois; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we recognize the board of trustees, staff, and entire membership of the Illinois Association of Park Districts on the occasion of its 85th anniversary; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the Illinois Association of Park Districts as a symbol of our esteem and respect.