FROM THE EDITOR

Celebrating Illinois Park Districts During the State Fair

by Laura J. Bedford

On August 20, 1994, the Illinois Association of Park Districts, the Illinois Park and Recreation Association, and the Illinois Department of Conservation will host an historical event — Park District Conservation Day at the Illinois State Fair.

This first-time event provides an excellent opportunity to showcase Illinois' park districts, forest preserves and recreation agencies to the more than 95,000 fairgoers expected to attend. A series of special park and recreation presentations and performances will be conducted throughout the day. In addition, local bus trips are being coordinated to the Fair in support of this special day.

Park District Conservation Day is being held to promote the importance of constructive leisure time and conserving our natural resources, as well as to emphasize the tremendous, positive impact parks and recreation have on Illinois' economy, tourism and quality of life issues.

Discounted tickets are currently available for purchase through the IAPD office, (217) 523-4554. In addition, volunteers are being recruited to assist with the day's activities. For more information on Park District Conservation Day, see the "Public Awareness Perspective" article on pp. 42-43.

IAPD and IPRA have an opportunity to further solidify our relationship with the State of Illinois and make Park District Conservation Day an annual event. Please help us leave a lasting impression with the State Fair officials, legislators, Governor, and citizens of Illinois. Bring a group or volunteer your time. We hope to see you on August 20.

ON THE COVER Clowning around at the Illinois State Fair is a member of the Gene Trimble Clown Band from Newman, Illinois. The group has been performing at the Fair since 1966. Photo courtesy of the Illinois State Fair,

4* Illinois Parks & Recreation* July/August 1994