IP&R July 2020

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July/August 2020

PARKS AND RECREATION The magazine of the Illinois Association of Park Districts and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association

trends in conservation, outdoor recreation & nature centers

IN THIS ISSUE

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From the Editor

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Get on Board

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Eye on the Profession

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Good Governance in the Time of COVID-19

Dear Summer Staff, Welcome to Our Professional Community!

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Statehouse Insider

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Inspiring the Next Generation by

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Telling the Story of Illinois’

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Five Tips for Sourcing

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Flipping the Switch to Virtual

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Our Outdoors is Open: Nature

The OSLAD Grant Program is as Important as Ever

Connecting People to Nature

First Naturalist

Outdoor Signage

Programming

Nurturing Communities Back to Health

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I L L I N O I S

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P A R K S

People and Places Updates and tributes in the park, recreation and conservation family

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R E C R E A T I O N

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FROM THE EDITOR People throughout the nation are still coping with the effects of COVID-19 and the state of Illinois is no different. While we continue to make progress, most recently entering Phase Four of the Restore Illinois plan, we must remain diligent in protecting not only ourselves from COVID-19, but also those around us.

I recently traveled to Southern Illinois for a small family vacation in Alto Pass to celebrate the Fourth of July. We visited the waterfall at Ferne Clyffe State Park, the Pomona Natural Bridge in the Shawnee National Forest, and the majestic bluffs along the Quetil Trail. Seeing such incredible natural landmarks while also watching my children experience it for the first time was a memory I will never forget. Other visitors on the trails maintained proper physical distance so everyone could safely enjoy these natural wonders. We are truly blessed to live in a state where there is so much natural beauty around us.

This issue explores Trends in Conservation, Outdoor Recreation & Nature Centers. We are pleased to share great examples of what park districts, forest preserves, and conservation agencies are doing amid COVID-19, while also looking at new ideas and concepts they are using to get people outside. On page 12, “Inspiring the Next Generation by Connecting People to Nature” looks at how the Forest Preserves of Cook County are accessing thousands of acres of land to give families a wide array of opportunities to engage with nature. Page 16 features “Telling the Story of Illinois' First Naturalist,” a glimpse at the Glenview Park District's work to create The Grove National Historic Landmark. Page 24's “Flipping the Switch to Virtual Programming” shares Lake County Forest Preserves' efforts to make virtual programming accessible and effective while “Our Outdoors is Open: Nature Nurturing Communities Back to Health” on page 28 examines the McHenry County Conservation District's successful efforts to adapt to serving its community during the pandemic.

I hope you are staying safe, staying healthy, and making the best of these strange days. Thanks for reading.

— Wayne Utterback, Interim Editor

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PARKS AND RECREATION

211 East Monroe Street, Springfield, Illinois 62701-1186 217.523.4554 FAX 217.523.4273 iapd@ILparks.org www.ILparks.org www.ILipra.org

Managing Editor PETER M. MURPHY, President and Chief Executive Officer, IAPD

Graphic Design GOSS ADVERTISING, 217.423.4739, www.gossadvertising.com

Interim Editor WAYNE UTTERBACK

Advertising Sales Representative TODD PERNSTEINER, 952.841.1111, info@pernsteiner.com

JOINT EDITORIAL COMMITTEE IAPD Representatives

IPRA Representatives

GARY GILLIS, Co-Chair, Pekin Park District MARY KAY LUDEMANN, Plainfield Park District LORI FLORES-WEISSKOPF, Park District of Highland Park

KARI FELKAMP, IPRA Co-Chair, Elmhurst Park District CHERYL BUHMANN, Vernon Hills Park District JOAN SCOVIC, Northbrook Park District

ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION OF PARK DISTRICTS ADRIANE JOHNSON, Chairman, Buffalo Grove Park District MIKE VOGL, Chairman-Elect, Bloomingdale Park District KEVIN DOLAN, Immediate Past-Chairman, Mundelein Park & Recreation District RON EVANS, Vice Chairman, Hoffman Estates Park District GARY GILLIS, Vice Chairman, Pekin Park District JEFF RIGONI, Vice Chairman, Lockport Township Park District GRANT HAMMER, Treasurer, Springfield Park District WILLIAM CASEY, Glenview Park District ERIC ENTLER, Park District of Forest Park

JOHN HEMINGWAY, Macomb Park District GREG LAPIN, Deerfield Park District LESTER LONG, Dolton Park District MARY KAY LUDEMANN, Plainfield Park District JESSE ORTEGA, Mundelein Park & Recreation District LORI PALMER, Bartlett Park District MIKE REID, Skokie Park District TED SCHULZ, New Lenox Community Park District TYLER SMITH, Rockford Park District

IAPD HEADQUARTERS 211 East Monroe Street, Springfield, IL 62701-1186 217.523.4554 www.ILparks.org PETER M. MURPHY, President and Chief Executive Officer JASON ANSELMENT, General Counsel KARI CATTON, Executive Secretary BOBBIE JO HILL, Director of Public Relations & Membership Engagement

ALAN HOWARD, Director of Finance & Human Resources SHANNON SARTAIN, Legal/Legislative Secretary SUE TRIPHAHN, Director of Education & Conferences WAYNE UTTERBACK, Director of Communications & Digital Content

ILLINOIS PARK AND RECREATION ASSOCIATION ERIN FOLK, Chairman, Executive Director, Oregon Park District DOUG DAMERY, Chair-Elect, Director of Parks & Recreation, Town of Normal JEFF FOUGEROUSSE, Past Chair, Executive Director, Vernon Hills Park District ERIKA STROJINC, Membership Council Representative, Superintendent of Recreation, Buffalo Grove Park District TRISHA BREITLOW, Secretary/At Large Representative, Executive Director, Maine-Niles Association of Special Recreation

NORTHWEST REGION REPRESENTATIVE ANDREW THURMAN, Executive Director, Geneseo Park District CENTRAL REGION REPRESENTATIVE DEREK HARMS, Executive Director, Springfield Park District SOUTHERN REGION REPRESENTATIVE ANDREW DALLNER, Superintendent of Recreation, City of O'Fallon

CHICAGO METRO REGION REPRESENTATIVE LISA SHEPPARD, CPRP, Executive Director, Glencoe Park District

IPRA HEADQUARTERS 536 East Avenue, LaGrange, IL 60525-6815 708.588.2280 Fax 708.354.0535 www.ILipra.org DEBBIE TRUEBLOOD, CAE, Executive Director BARRY FRANKS, Finance Director LEESA JOHNSON, CMP, Conference & Meetings Director JEAN KANE, Marketing & Executive Assistant

KIM LAPER, CPRP, Education & Events Manager LYNN ROTUNNO, Membership & Website Manager DUANE SMITH, CPRP, Education Director HEATHER WEISHAAR, Outreach Director

Illinois Parks and Recreation (ISSN 0019-2155) is published bimonthly at 211 E. Monroe Street, Springfield, Illinois, by the Illinois Association of Park Districts and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association. Annual subscription rates: $12 for IAPD/IPRA members; $50 for non-members; $60 foreign; $20 educational institutions. Single copies: $2 members; $10 nonmembers. Periodicals postage paid at Springfield, Illinois and additional post offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Illinois Parks & Recreation, 211 E. Monroe Street, Springfield, IL 62701-1186. Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily express the official views of the IAPD/IPRA. Likewise, the publication of any advertisement is not to be construed as an endorsement of the product or services offered. Members of the IAPD and the IPRA and other interested persons are encouraged to submit articles and illustrative photos for possible publication in the magazine. Send for manuscript guidelines and deadline dates: Editor, Illinois Parks & Recreation, 211 E. Monroe Street, Springfield, IL 62701-1186, 217.523.4554, iapd@ILparks.org, www.ILparks.org. By submitting articles for publication, authors are assigning the copyright to the Illinois Association of Park Districts.

Copyright© by the Illinois Association of Park Districts and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association. All rights reserved.

Reprints of articles in whole or in part without prior written permission are prohibited.

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g GET ON BOARD

Good Governance in the Time of COVID-19

Peter M. Murphy, Esq., CAE, IOM

IAPD President and CEO

One of the great opportunities that serving as a park commissioner provides is being a recognized leader in your community. It also gives you a chance to further develop the leader within you. Many times we hear references to a person as a born leader, but the reality is that this trait is not typically innate, but rather learned, developed and refined. This is in contrast to a person's desire to act in a leadership capacity for which, many times, they find themselves ill-suited.

That leadership capacity can be developed is good news for all of us who have the desire to be life-long learners and you can't really thrive as a park commissioner without this commitment. Following the basic tenant of good leadership which is to treat others (park district staff, the public and fellow commissioners) as you would like to be treated yourself is the foundation for leadership development.

STRATEGIES FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE

1. Tie at least 70-80 percent of each agenda to the objectives of your strategic plan.

Great board members recognize the difference between oversight (monitoring) and micro-management. They spend their time using the 80/20 rule: 80 percent of the board's time is spent strategizing and 20 percent is spent monitoring. Adopting new strategies to become a more effective board will optimize the business meeting and produce unified results.

2. Create “rules of engagement” for interaction and support of one another.

A seasoned board is adept at decision making, interpersonal relationships, and dealing with differences of opinion and conflict. Unfortunately, most of us don't serve with a full contingent of board members with governance experience.

As a result, most boards, intending to behave like teams, find it helpful to develop a set of rules of engagement that outline commitments expected from each board member.

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3. Have a job description and commitment to serve signed by each member.

Visit www.ilparks.org/board_self_eval for suggestions on format and content.

4. Conduct Board Development at each board meeting.

Reading and discussing an article on governance, scheduling product or service tutorials at each meeting, having a local person who is “seasoned” at governance provide a short tutorial on a chosen topic, asking your accountant to deliver a financial lesson (e.g., how to read a balance sheet), having a customer/client visit and provide an explanation of their product/service are all brief time investments that will contribute to growth of governance capabilities.

5. Conduct a board self-assessment once a year.

Progressive boards engage in regular self-assessments.

These can be as limited or far ranging as the board feels is helpful. It's critical for boards to do some form of selfassessment each year, even if the board chooses not to conduct a large scale, more comprehensive assessment.

Many boards conduct annual, focused assessments on the quality of meetings, agenda management, or perceptions of individual participation. While a comprehensive assessment would cover all aspects of governance, boards may be better-served to schedule such a full-scale assessment every several years while selecting some topics to focus on annually.

6. Provide formal feedback to your CEO twice a year.

While CEO evaluation and goal setting is an annual function required in best practices and effective governance, many boards fail to do it on a timely basis.

Even when conducted effectively, the annual review is not enough: a formal mid-year review should also occur that provides the CEO direct, formal feedback on how the board sees performance. This bi-annual discussion keeps expectations and performance calibrated, assures CEOs w w w. I L i p r a . o r g

have timely recognition of board perceptions, and will result in better overall organizational and board performance. If the board and CEO are not fully in sync, quarterly discussions may be needed.

While the once a year evaluation and goal setting will be time-consuming, the mid-year feedback process will customarily require less time invested, especially if performance is on track. Customarily, the board president leads the evaluation and review process; however, all board members should be involved in the process.

7. Schedule a retreat once a year to revisit and reflect on organizational values and strategic plans.

The progressive board finds time to “retreat” at least once a year, if only for a day, away from the pressures of a typical agenda. Discussion at these retreats allows relaxed: Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

exploration of changing business conditions shifting customer expectations chronic challenges and new trends expansion renewal of focus on strategy for the governance body

Certainly, some effort to refresh the strategic plan at least every three years is considered at a minimum a best practice. In our experience, the average retreat is somewhere around 1-1½ days, but it is not unheard of to invest a half a day or to expand to 2½-3 days for boards facing more complex challenges. Whatever your investment, make it count. Creating a calendar that selects the time a year in advance gives most board members time to clear their schedules and make the commitment.

These strategies can be easily implemented into the board routine. Short and long-term strategies will improve board and staff performance. The results will be shorter board meetings and more valuable engagement.

IAPD Member Only Resources Board development is a constant challenge for most agencies. The presence of COVID-19 as well as limitations on budgets and free time make travel and participation in educational opportunities a challenge. This is the reason IAPD puts its resources at your fingertips with its catalog of online legal and legislative materials as well as electronic educational opportunities. See the IAPD website for resource rich content available exclusively for you as a member.

Stay safe, stay well, and thank you for your service during these challenging times.

2020 IAPD CALENDAR OF EVENTS AND MEETINGS Tuesday, July 21, 2020 Complimentary Members Only Webinar Conversation Circle: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion – Part I 10:00 a.m.

Monday, August 24, 2020 Fox Valley Park District Billy Casper Golf Orchard Valley Golf Course 2411 W. Illinois Ave. Aurora, IL 60506 12:00 p.m. Shotgun Start

Thursday, July 23, 2020 IAPD Leadership Institute Workshop #1 6:00 p.m.

Improve Your Likeability – Improve Your Impact Schaumburg Park District's Schaumburg Golf Club Chandler's 401 N. Roselle Rd. Schaumburg, IL 60194

Thursday, September 17, 2020 IAPD Leadership Institute Workshop #2 6:00 pm Driving the Future of your Agency: Vision, Leadership and Engagement Schaumburg Park District's Schaumburg Golf Club Chandler's 401 N. Roselle Rd. Schaumburg, IL 60194

Monday, July 27, 2020 Cary Park District GolfVisions Management, Inc. Foxford Hills Golf Club 6800 S. Rawson Bridge Rd. Cary, IL 60013 12:00 p.m. Shotgun Start

Monday, September 21, 2020 IAPD Summer Golf Tour #3 Channahon Park District's Heritage Bluffs Public Golf Club 24355 W. Bluff Rd. Channahon, IL 60410 12:00 p.m. Shotgun Start

Tuesday, July 28, 2020 Complimentary Members Only Webinar Conversation Circle: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion – Part II 10 a.m.

Monday, August 10, 2020 IAPD Leadership Classic Hoffman Estates Park District's Bridges of Poplar Creek Country Club, 1400 Poplar Creek Dr. Hoffman Estates, IL 60169 10:00 p.m. Warm Up Thursday, August 13, 2020 IAPD Leadership Institute Webinar #3 11:00 a.m.

Your Board and Your Strategic Plan

Friday, October 16, 2020 Best of the Best Awards Gala Wheeling Park District's Chevy Chase Country Club 1000 N. Milwaukee Ave. Wheeling, IL 60090 6:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Thursday, November 5, 2020 Legal Symposium 9:00 a.m.

Hyatt Lodge 2815 Jorie Blvd.

Oak Brook, IL 60523 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

January 28-30, 2021 IAPD/IPRA Soaring to New Heights Conference Hyatt Regency Chicago

Tuesday, August 18, 2020 Complimentary Members Only Webinar Lessons from Leaders: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 10 a.m.

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e EYE ON THE PROFESSION

A C LO S E R LO O K AT T R E N D S A N D I S S U E S I N T H E PA R K A N D R E C R E AT I O N P R O F E S S I O N

Dear Summer Staff, Welcome to Our Professional Community!

By Debbie Trueblood, CAE

IPRA Executive Director

While I usually do this column a little earlier in the summer, this year, in many ways, our summer recreation programming got off to a delayed start. For parks, camps, or other programming, this issue is dedicated to them. Please share it with them as part of their orientation.

Professionals, do you remember that first day you came to work in the field of parks and recreation? Based on the numerous stories I've heard, it sounds like many of you reading this first came to park and recreation as your first job, maybe a summer job when you were in high school.

Let's take a moment to ensure that we share with our summer staff that each of them has the potential to do what they love, serve their community, and be a part of the park and rec community year-round. I am offering this article for you to share with your summer staff as part of their orientation experience, to educate them about the opportunities available in a career in parks and recreation.

Summer Staff, welcome once again to the field of parks and recreation! There may be many reasons why you chose to spend your summer serving at your local park and recreation agency; maybe your friends are working there too, maybe you enjoy being out in the sun, maybe you love working with kids, or getting your hands dirty working outside. Whatever the reasons, we're so glad you're here with us! On behalf of the professionals across Illinois who call parks and recreation their career of choice, we would just like to take a quick minute to invite you to join us.

Maybe you have your career plan all worked out and you know exactly what you want to do down the road, or maybe you're still seeking the right fit, you'd be surprised how many people find themselves working at a park district, forest preserve, special recreation association, municipal department or other park and recreation agency at some point in their careers.

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In Illinois alone, we have several four-year degree granting institutions for parks and recreation majors. According to NRPA, the following schools are accredited: Chicago State University, Eastern Illinois University, Illinois State University, University of St. Francis, and Western Illinois University.

Additionally, there are other recreation degree programs at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. And Moraine Valley Community College has a program for Recreation and Sports Management. So, for students interested in pursuing a college education in a major which will prepare them for a career in our field, there are many local options throughout Illinois.

For the people who may be learning about us for the first time, it is the mission of the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) to provide and promote exceptional standards of education, networking, and resources for all professionals in the Illinois park, recreation, and conservation communities. Most of our members work in public parks and I am offering this article for you to share with your summer staff as part of their orientation experience, to educate them about the opportunities available in a career in parks and recreation.

recreation at park districts, forest preserves, municipal departments, and special recreation associations. Our job is to serve professionals in parks and recreation in Illinois by providing educational opportunities and other resources to help them to do their jobs better. If you did decide that the fun you're having this summer as a seasonal employee at your local park and recreation agency is something you want to pursue as a career, there are many different kinds of professional positions within our field to choose from. Park

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and recreation positions include Recreation Programmers, Athletic Supervisors, Inclusion Coordinators (to ensure people with disabilities have fulfilling opportunities for recreation), Park Specialists, Water Park Managers, Facility and Event Managers, Fitness Center Managers, Park Police, Museum Managers, Aquatic Managers, etc.

As well as those kinds of positions which are common both at park and recreation agencies, as well as outside companies such as positions in finance, marketing, customer service, IT, administration, and human resource.

To view a list of jobs and internships in our field which are currently available to get a sense of what you might be doing in a career in parks and recreation, take a look at our statewide job board at http://jobs.ilipra.org/.

If you are a summer seasonal employee who might be interested in a career in parks and recreation, you might seek out the agency's summer intern who might be able to give you some real-world stories about what their classroom experience is like. Or you can reach out to the full-time employees at the agency to hear about their careers.

For more information about the kind of career opportunities which may be available to you in our field, I welcome you to view our “Day in the Life of” video series at https://www.youtube.com/user/IPRAssoc1815/videos.

These videos feature different positions in our field and you can view each one to get a sense of what that job would be like for you.

Upcoming Events August 12, 2020 & August 20, 2020

Webinar: Detours on the Leadership Path Detours on the Leadership Path, is presented by André Pichly of the St. Helena Parks and Recreation Department, and he will share how high-achieving people use the challenging and disappointing experiences to renew goals, build relationships, and reevaluate priorities - all while maintaining dignity, positivity, and respect for self and others.

August 12, 2020

CPRP Exam Prep Series B HR and Communications* This is the first of four in a series of classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) exam. *subject to change due to COVID-19

September 9, 2020 & September 17, 2020

Webinar: Busy Doesn't Mean Productive Busy Doesn't Mean Productive, is presented by Dean Heffta of Clarus Results LLC, and he will introduce tools and insights to help every person get back in control of their lives, build meaning into their work, and create better outcomes for their organization.

October 14, 2020 & October 15, 2020

Webinar: Succession Planning - Failure to Plan Succession Planning - Failure to Plan Fails Everyone, is presented by Marie Knight from the City of Huntington Beach, and she will teach you how to insure your agency's future success by identifying and developing new leaders who can replace those that resign or retire.

August 19, 2020

CPRP Exam Prep Series B – Finance* This is the second of four in a series of classes designed to prepare individuals for the National Recreation and Park Association's Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) exam. *subject to change due to COVID-19

For details and registration, please visit the IPRA event calendar at ILipra.org

Our professional community is a place where all people from all backgrounds are welcome. We have a wide diversity of interests from people who run high ropes courses and seek out opportunities in Outdoor Education to those who prefer a more indoor career doing fundraising to support our important programs serving kids, seniors, families, and people with disabilities. Some of our colleagues love sports and participate as athletes themselves while others may prefer to spend their recreation time traveling or pursuing fine arts. There is no single “right way” to be a parks and recreation professional.

Welcome to the field. Our hope for you as you enjoy your summer, is that while you are having fun, that you begin to see the value in the work you are doing as part of service to the community.

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s STATEHOUSE INSIDER

I S S U E S & I N S I G H T S F R O M T H E L E G A L / L E G I S L AT I V E S C E N E

The OSLAD Grant Program is as Important as Ever

Jason Anselment General Counsel

As hard as it is to imagine, the end of June marked my 10-year anniversary with the Illinois Association of Park Districts. During the past decade, IAPD and its member agencies have confronted numerous legislative challenges such as proposed property tax freezes, local government consolidation, dozens of unfunded mandates, repeated attacks on local control and more.

Unfortunately, we have also been forced to fight many battles to ensure full funding and release of OSLAD grants despite the popularity and success of the program, and 2020 has been no different.

The year started great with the Governor announcing 85 projects totaling $29.7 million in January, and the IDNR publishing a 2020 grant timetable with the OSLAD cycle scheduled for the traditional May 1-July 1 application period for the first time in years. However, our excitement was quelled when the Governor delivered his budget address in February and announced his intentions to hold back OSLAD funding for new grants if the state's graduated income tax referendum fails in November even though OSLAD has nothing to do with a referendum that would fund the state's general operations since OSLAD has its own dedicated revenue source.

As those of you who attended one of the 11 legislative breakfasts know, keeping OSLAD on schedule regardless of the outcome of the November referendum instantly became a major part of our advocacy efforts in February and March. We were making great progress in spite of COVID-19, and in April IDNR informed IAPD of its intention to open the grant cycle on time.

Regrettably, when the General Assembly returned to the Capitol for an abbreviated special session to pass a state budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1, the Governor proposed to sweep 100% of dedicated OSLAD funds for the FY 2021 grant program in order to use next year's dedicated OSLAD revenues for the state's general operations, and IDNR announced a postponement of the grant cycle.

Thanks to the immediate action by the IAPD membership in contacting their legislators, within 24 hours the General Assembly removed the proposed shortsighted sweep from the budget implementation bill and instead appropriated $29 million for new grants during the upcoming fiscal year. This was a monumental achievement, particularly given the unique circumstances of the four-day special session and the constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the budget

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simply authorizes spending, and as this issue goes to press IAPD is still working to push the Pritzker Administration to move forward with a new grant cycle so that OSLAD grants can be awarded this fiscal year.

The Pandemic and Budget Pressures Underscore the Need for OSLAD, Not Diminish It Like most, I cannot recall a more challenging period than the past several months because of the scope and breadth of the issues that COVID-19 has presented. But challenges present opportunities, and it has been rewarding to see IAPD member agencies once again rise to the occasion.

With so many major financial, management, employment and other issues already confronting agencies, it could seem tempting during these extraordinary times to simply let the state temporarily repurpose dedicated OSLAD dollars for its own operations by diverting them into the General Revenue Fund. But sweeping OSLAD would have been both devastating to the vitality of the program and a terrible decision for the state. If anything, the pandemic has demonstrated that OSLAD funding is needed now more than ever, and cutting a program that pays for itself is a prime example of shortsightedness.

To say that COVID-19 has triggered new financial challenges for the state and local governments is an understatement.

IAPD and its member agencies are not tone deaf to these fiscal challenges, but we are also not immune from them.

OSLAD provides critical support to local park and recreation agencies to help meet the enormous demands of their local communities, which have only been exacerbated by the pandemic and new social distancing requirements. Right now, agencies are reporting unprecedented numbers of visitors as citizens flock to the safety of the great outdoors. But this is not the only reason to prioritize OSLAD during budget shortfalls.

The state has been experiencing budget issues for years. As the state has struggled to deliver essential services to Illinois citizens, local park districts have stepped up to help as part of a longstanding partnership. Unlike other units of local governments and school districts, park districts do not receive operational dollars from the state, and the OSLAD matching grant program provides critical capital support that park districts utilize to deliver these essential services. w w w. I L i p r a . o r g

For example, OSLAD funded improvements are used in communities throughout Illinois to help provide afterschool programming and summer camps for working families as well as programming and services for seniors, persons with disabilities and others. During past economic downturns and the recent state budget crisis, park districts have experienced an even greater demand for these services as many nonprofits were forced to scale back or close their doors. As COVID-19 has weakened the economy, there are already visible signs that park districts will be asked to meet similar demands for the foreseeable future.

Medicaid and other health care expenses are major cost drivers in the state budget. Illinois' local park system, which OSLAD helps fund, provides convenient and affordable access to exercise and promotes physical and mental health which will help reduce health care costs over the long term. In fact, local parks have played a critical role during the pandemic as one of the only sanctuaries for physical and mental health and well-being. The demand for additional parks and open space as people spend more time outdoors and socially distance is very likely to trend upward in a post-pandemic world.

These projects also save education dollars for the state and for local school districts through shared use agreements, support environmental and other education, help mitigate stormwater in urban areas, have a positive impact on the juvenile crime rate saving the state money on youth detention facilities and much more.

Utilizing dedicated OSLAD revenues for their intended purpose is a very modest way in which the state can uphold its end of a longstanding partnership with local park and recreation agencies as they provide these essential services to Illinois residents. While the state benefits greatly, it does not have to bear the future burden or cost of maintaining those facilities or programs.

Dedicated OSLAD Revenues Will Help Stimulate a Struggling Economy When he announced the last round of OSLAD grant awards this past January, Governor Pritzker rightly pointed out that “[i]nvestments in local park projects are good for families and recreation enthusiasts, helping them enjoy outdoor activities and making Illinois communities better places to live and work. Park projects also boost local economic development efforts and spur additional investment throughout the state.”

The Governor was absolutely correct in January, and the only thing that has changed in the past six months is that the state's need for economic investment is much greater now.

While OSLAD projects will indeed help stimulate the economy immediately through job creation and the purchase of supplies and materials, that is only the beginning of the financial upside for the state. OSLAD capital projects produce even more economic returns over the long run once they are completed, because they continue to help generate additional state and local tax dollars by promoting tourism through youth sports tournaments, recreation, special events, and a whole

host of other activities. This generates additional sales, hotel/motel, motor fuel and other tax revenues for the state and local economies. Consequently, sweeping dedicated OSLAD funds that would help generate future state and local revenues, create jobs, and support local communities by aiding park districts in their delivery of essential services would be imprudent.

OSLAD Delivers the State Its Best Return on Investment The state's annual investment in OSLAD is miniscule in the context of its overall budget. To put this in perspective, this year's $29 million appropriation for OSLAD is .00068 of the state's $42.9 billion budget. That is barely ½ of ½ of ½ of ½ of 1% of the entire state operating budget. In other words, the state's contribution of dedicated dollars is a rounding error, but the state's return on investment is substantial. In fact, it would be difficult to imagine another program that has delivered the state a better bang for its buck over a three-decade period.

Unlike other state investments, OSLAD matching grants have a guaranteed return beyond the benefits described above. The modest investment of these dedicated capital funds for park improvement projects leverages additional local dollars through the 50% local matching requirement and ensures the state an immediate 100% return. Moreover, while the rules require local agencies to match grants dollar-for-dollar, throughout history local agencies have typically far exceeded these minimum matching requirements. In fact, for every $1.00 the state has provided in grant funds during OSLAD's history, park districts and other local governments have matched the state's contribution with $1.75 thereby providing the state a 175% return on its investment. To put this in perspective, a $400,000 OSLAD grant is matched by an average amount of $700,000 in local funds for a total investment of $1.1 million per grant. Where else in its budget does the state get that kind of guaranteed return? _____________

The demand for OSLAD grants before the pandemic already exceeded available funding. During the last cycle, there were 130 applications totaling $43,458,850 (1.5 times the $29 million available). The lasting societal impact of the pandemic and the economic downturn will only exacerbate the need.

While we understand the magnitude of the state's budget shortfalls, it is never prudent to repurpose dedicated dollars that pay for themselves and help the state meet its budget goals. Time and again, members of the General Assembly have stood with IAPD and its member agencies to protect the vitality of the OSLAD grant program, and we are grateful to all the Legislative Leaders and individual legislators who recently did so again.

It is critical that we work together to protect the integrity of the OSLAD grant program and ensure that this year's funding is spent for its intended purpose, which is the best use of these dollars for both the state and local communities.

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By Stacina Stagner, Communications Manager, Forest Preserves of Cook County

The Forest Preserves of Cook County has existed for more than a century. Since the beginning, the core of our mission is protecting and preserving open lands and natural wonders of the region. But an equally important part of that mission is for the preserves to be a place “in a natural state� that provides education, pleasure and recreational opportunities to the public.

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Engaging the public through hands-on learning, inspiring programs and memorable experiences can help establish a life-long love for the Forest Preserves and nature. More than ever, the Forest Preserves is working to inspire the next generation of conservationists and establish meaningful connections to all of Cook County's diverse communities. And that personal investment for what is wild and wonderful about the Forest Preserves, in turn, builds the support needed to help our native prairies, woodlands, wetlands and savannas continue to thrive.

As Cook County has grown—now home to more than 5.2 million residents—the ways in which people use nature and how we connect to them have also changed. From creating new destinations to reactivating popular sites to forging deeper relationships with community leaders, the Forest Preserves is dedicated to bringing more people out into nature and to being a resource for people from every part of our urban and suburban county. Today, with events cancelled and some sites closed due to COVID-19, many of these programs are currently on hold. But we will continue to adapt our work, offering programming to the public in new ways until the pandemic is finally contained.

Creating a Community in South Cook County The Forest Preserves of Cook County today covers nearly 70,000 acres and offers facilities that include six nature education centers, five campgrounds and three family aquatic centers. Clustered together in one square mile of

southeast Cook County, the Forest Preserves operates Sand Ridge Nature Center, Camp Shabbona Woods and Green Lake Family Aquatic Center, as well as a fishing lake and a paved trail spur connecting to the Burnham Greenway Trail.

This grouping of amenities presented an opportunity for the Forest Preserves to tie them together as a singular campus rather than separate sites. This is especially a focus at the aquatic center, which attracts many summertime visitors who are unaware of the opportunities to explore nature nearby. With updated signage highlighting all the campus amenities, visitors at any of the campus sites will learn about the miles of trails, opportunities for camping, fun and educational programs and events, and more.

The Forest Preserves is also updating Sand Ridge Nature Center, with new indoor and outdoor interpretive exhibits highlighting the rare dune-andswale ecology of the surrounding area and honoring the cultural history of the community. The updated nature center will serve as an information and welcome center that builds confidence and inspires people to explore more.

Reactivating an Iconic Site As one of the Forest Preserves' most iconic locations, Dan Ryan Woods on Chicago's South Side is commonly on the list of hosting the most permitted events at any of our sites every year. Thousands of friends and families gather at its

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numerous picnic groves and an indoor event pavilion for family reunions, weddings, graduations and more. Like at the Sand Ridge Campus, we saw an opportunity to connect many of these visitors with nature, as well. Although separated by a major road, a pedestrian underpass connects people to a different outdoor experience in the southern section of Dan Ryan Woods, with restored historic aqueducts, an oak woodlands and wetlands.

A new Forest Preserves visitor center at Dan Ryan Woods offers a place where visitors can pick up trail maps and ask staff about other features of the preserve and nearby sites (it also serves as a warming shelter when the site's sledding hill is open). Last year, we also added a set of exercise stairs nearby and built a nature play area, opportunities to expand outdoor exercise and fun with generous funding from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, as well as support from the Forest Preserve Foundation.

Training Individuals to Lead Nature Experiences Thanks to our Conservation and Experiential Programming Department as well as our vendors, the Forest Preserves offers hundreds of robust programs, events and opportunities to experience the outdoors annually, from canoeing to birdwatching to fishing. Through two unique, award-winning programs, the Forest Preserves is connecting with civic leaders and offering them training to 14

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lead group paddling and camping at a new boat launch in suburban Maywood and Camp Sullivan in Oak Forest and Camp Shabbona Woods in Calumet City.

The Forest Preserves' Greater Maywood Paddling Program (GMPP) provides opportunities for organized groups to connect to nature and water through kayaking experiences.

Group leaders are trained on kayaking, use and care of the gear and how to lead a group on the water. Once certified, trained leaders have access to our Kayak Gear Library, which has all the supplies needed for an organized group paddling trip.

The idea is modeled on our Camping Leadership Immersion Course (CLIC) program, an overnight training that gives participants the skills and experience to plan and lead group camping trips. The course covers camping safety, day-hiking, tent and stove-set up, teambuilding and leadership skills, and educational offerings, and also offers a gear library. For many youth, outings lead by CLIC participants are their first experiences sitting around a campfire roasting marshmallows, falling asleep under the stars and waking up in nature to a chorus of native and migrating birds.

Engaging Youth Through Paid Employment Opportunities Since 2005, the Forest Preserves has sponsored Conservation Corps programs, paid hands-on learning w w w. I L i p r a . o r g

experiences that open the doors to possible careers in conservation and environmentalism. Over the past few years, one of the fastest growing of these programs has been the Forest Preserve Experience (FPE)—a five-week paid summer employment opportunity for high-school students whose families are in public housing or using vouchers from the Housing Authority of Cook County (HACC).

For many FPE youth crew members, this is both their first job and first exposure to nature. Held in conjunction with HACC, Friends of the Forest Preserves and the Forest Preserve Foundation, FPE offers crew members a chance to help their community's environment through river and lake clean-up activities, tree mulching and invasive plant removal efforts in their local forest preserves. Time is also spent learning about local habitats as well as participating in environmental enrichment activities like hiking and canoeing.

Leveraging Partnerships The through line for all these projects is our ability to leverage partnerships. The Forest Preserves is uniquely positioned to connect with myriad partners—from other governmental agencies to nonprofit organizations—because we are present in every area of Cook County and our target audience is every person in Cook County.

At the Sand Ridge campus and Dan Ryan Woods, funding from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development program was critical. Many of the projects mentioned benefitted from support from the Forest Preserve Foundation. The camping and kayaking training programs work because partners from community organizations—including faith-based groups, scouting groups and even local libraries—bring in participants. And more than ever, Forest Preserves volunteer stewards are important partners in conservation and restoration of native ecosystems throughout the Preserves.

While it was civic leaders who had the foresight to establish the Forest Preserves of Cook County more than 100 years ago, it will be up to the next generation to continue to nurture and protect the Forest Preserves for the next 100 years and beyond. Our job is to continue to engage and inspire people from every community in Cook County to enjoy the Forest Preserves, connect with nature, and take on the job of helping carry our mission forward.

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TELLING THE STORY OF ILLINOIS’

FIRST NATURALIST

THE GROVE INTERPRETIVE CENTER RENOVATION PROJECT

By Lorin Ottlinger CPRP, Director of The Grove National Historic Landmark, Glenview Park District

In 1836, a young boy would move to a small patch of woodland in northeast Illinois on the edge of the great prairie. Here, he would explore the forests, rivers and grasslands around him, and begin preserving and cataloging the plant and animal specimens he observed. He would go on to study natural history with the top scientists of the time, collect and curate for museums such as the Smithsonian Institution, establish the Chicago Academy of Sciences, write manuscripts and explore the Yukon wilderness. That young boy was Robert Kennicott and that small patch of woodland is now known as The Grove National Historic Landmark, a facility of the Glenview Park District.

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The Grove has been dedicated an Illinois Nature Preserve for its rich flora and fauna, and a National Historic Landmark for its rich history. Dr. John Kennicott, Robert's father, was a visionary horticulturist and medical doctor who settled his family on the land in 1836. The Grove became a facility of the Glenview Park District in 1974 and has been evolving and expanding ever since. The property now tops 152 acres and features many historic structures including a log cabin, one-room schoolhouse, blacksmith shop and the Kennicott House, built by Dr. Kennicott in 1856. The 3,500 square foot Interpretive Center was constructed in 1990 to showcase the wildlife of The Grove's natural areas. It also acted as a hub for the facility's operations and a destination for over a hundred thousand visitors and 900 school groups each year. However, all of this use had taken a toll, and the thirty-year old building was in need of some repairs and upgrades.

On March 20, 2018, Glenview voters turned out to approve a $17 million bond measure to finance improvements at The Grove and the Glenview Ice Center, and to purchase open space for park purposes.

Two million dollars of this funding was earmarked to renovate The Grove's Interpretive Center. The goals of the project were to upgrade failing infrastructure, to improve visitor flow through the building and, most importantly, to tell the remarkable story of pioneer naturalist, Robert Kennicott, through new interpretive exhibits.

The Glenview Park District worked with architects from Wight and Company to design the renovations. Plans included replacing the outdated HVAC, alarm, and filtration systems and installing a fire-suppression system. The exhibit space was expanded by 50%, and a more open, welcoming reception and retail area was created. Many pieces of antique furniture and fixtures were repurposed for the new space, in keeping with the rustic character of the old building.

The Interpretive Center renovation project got underway in summer 2019, when the building was vacated and emptied of furniture, supplies and natural artifacts. Most difficult to move were the dozens of live animals. All of the native fish went down to a temporary life support system set up at The Grove's maintenance garage and the other animals were relocated to a makeshift “Critter Cabin� in the blacksmith shop that remained open to the public throughout the construction process. The hundredyear-old, 125-pound alligator snapping turtle presented a unique challenge, but staff did a great job moving him safely out of his exhibit and into a temporary holding tank. Construction began in June and continued through fall and winter of 2019.

The highlights of the project are the new exhibits and animal habitats that incorporate the fascinating life and accomplishments of Robert Kennicott, Illinois' first naturalist. Staff worked with Bluestone and Associates to design the exhibit panels that lead visitors through

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Robert's early years as a boy at The Grove, to his days as a scientist at the Smithsonian Institution and a founder of a natural history museum at Northwestern University and the Chicago Academy of Sciences, which today includes the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Letters, artifacts, specimens and interactive exhibits help illustrate Robert's amazing achievements and bring his story to life.

Robert also made two expeditions to explore what is now Alaska, with the intention of connecting North America and Asia by telegraph line. He died mysteriously at the age of 30, on his second voyage. His remains were eventually exhumed, and in 2001, scientists from the Smithsonian Institution performed an autopsy that determined Robert died from sudden cardiac arrest, probably brought on by a congenital condition. Robert's skeleton is currently part of the Objects of Wonder exhibit at Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History. Robert's exploration of Russian America is further interpreted with a full-size dog sled ready for packing (and selfies).

All of the animal habitats in the main exhibit room were reinvented. The showpiece is the four-ton Turtle Island exhibit in the center of the room, fabricated by Cemrock

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Landscapes in Tuscon, Arizona. This multi-habitat structure contains turtles, snakes, birds and other species, and features embedded fossils, a stream and a waterfall. The large alligator snapping turtle was finally reintroduced into his new enclosure, where windows allow him to peek at neighboring turtles, fish—and people. Large windows surround Turtle Island and allow great views of the animals for visitors of all sizes and abilities. The structure includes a pass-through underneath the stream and even a childsized tunnel with secret views of the land and aquatic turtles.

Other exciting features include our refurbished 10-foot Alaskan brown bear taxidermy, which was relocated from the second floor to greet visitors in the entry kiosk, and a new 16-foot aquarium to replace five failing fish tanks along one wall. The aquarium holds 2,000 gallons of water and was financed through an Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity grant.

During Robert's time at the Smithsonian Institution as a naturalist and collector, he became a charter member of the Megatherium Club, a group of young scientists—many of whom became giants in their respective specialties.

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They called themselves “Megatheria� after an extinct genus of ground sloth that grew up to 20 feet high. As a tribute to Robert and his fellow scientists, a Megatherium Club exhibit was developed, containing a 14-foot illustration of a Megatheria ground sloth, interpretive panels, and a fossil touch table. The focal point is the 7-foot replica of giant Harlan's ground sloth skeleton mounted high on a decorative base. This portion of the exhibit was made possible through a donation by the Glenview Park Foundation.

The project was completed in January 2020 and a Grand Reopening celebration was held February 21-23, 2020.

We welcomed representatives from the Kennicott family and special guests Dr. Doug Owsley and Kari Bruwelheide of the Smithsonian Institution, who both worked on Robert Kennicott's autopsy in 2001. The opening day presentation culminated with a surprise appearance by Robert Kennicott, himself! Robert, portrayed by one of The Grove's talented interpreters, spoke of his many contributions, and the importance of the new exhibits to get children interested in animals and plants. After his speech, Robert pulled out an impressive antique hunting knife for a Grove-style ribbon cutting that officially opened the building to the public.

Visitors poured through the front door and marveled at the exciting new exhibits. People were amazed by the giant bear and ground sloth skeleton. Children scurried through the Turtle Island tunnels, exploring the water turtles, alligator snapper and kestrels. Families enjoyed a scavenger hunt, Yukon photo booth and learning about Robert's amazing life story. At the Kennicott House, guests toured Robert's family home and enjoyed live folk music.

The new Grove Interpretive Center was truly a group effort and credit is due to the wonderful team of architects, engineers, construction managers, exhibit designers, animal care specialists and staff members. It would not have been possible without the support of the Glenview Park District residents, who successfully passed the 2018 referendum, and the community groups that advocated in its favor. The new building will not only serve as the center of operations for The Grove, but also as a place where local history and science come together. We welcome visitors to enjoy the new exhibits and help us celebrate Robert Kennicott, our local hero, whose passion for nature and learning can continue to inspire generations to come!

The Grove National Historic Landmark is located at 1421 Milwaukee Avenue in Glenview Illinois. Information about the Interpretive Center hours and programming can be found at the Glenview Park District website at www.GlenviewParks.org.

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for Sourcing Outdoor Signage

By Stephnie Coufal,

iZone Imaging, scoufal@izoneimaging.com

Durability and ease of maintenance play a critical role in protecting your investment for your nature centers, trails and parks

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Outdoor signs can get pricey, which is why it's important you use a material that's durable and won't have to be replaced every couple of years due to fading, cracking, or harsh weather.

Photo Credit: iZone Imaging

Choosing quality, durable outdoor signage that is easy to order and maintain can be a challenge. You have to research your options, compare costs, understand the materials, guarantee the printing method can maintain the integrity of your design - the list goes on.

Before you purchase your next outdoor signs, consider these five tips to ensure you don't face the same old headaches after you get your new signage installed.

Tip #1: Make sure the signage material is weather-resistant.

Illinois winters can be brutal, so whether your signs will be used at a community park, along a trail system, or part of a nature center or themed environment, they should be able to endure inclement weather and high visitor traffic.

Signs can be made of a large variety of materials and substrates. Each one has its own strengths and weaknesses.

Aluminum Aluminum is a durable substrate commonly used for outdoor signs like parking and directional signage.

Aluminum substrate can come unpainted, or painted on one or both sides. It most commonly comes painted white, but can be painted in a variety of colors. Printing of complex graphics and photos on aluminum can be restrictive and the signs can begin to fade over a couple of years.

Vinyl Vinyl signs and banners are an excellent short-term solution for event banners and light poles. Some vinyl is made specifically with the outdoors in mind, meaning they use ink that is resistant to UV rays. Vinyl is also an excellent solution for yard signs.

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Photo Credit: iZone Imaging

Wood Wood signs can be classy and create a rustic look. They can be engraved and painted for smaller directional signs.

A downfall of wood signage is long-term maintenance expenses as wood needs to be treated or replaced often due to everyday wear-and-tear and damage from weather.

Wood is also susceptible to insect infestation.

Custom High Pressure Laminate (CHPL) CHPL is an excellent solution for outdoor signage. It is exceptionally versatile, impervious to moisture, and is fade, scratch, and graffiti-resistant. Graphic reproduction on CHPL signage is second to none. While it may cost a bit more to produce, the long-term benefits pay for itself many times over.

Tip #2: Weigh durability vs cost (cheaper isn't always better).

harsh weather. Investing in a durable material saves you money in the long run. Be sure to ask your signage manufacturer if your investment comes with a long-term, reliable warranty.

Tip #3: Make certain the material is easy to clean.

When people love your space, your signage will naturally get dirty due to the rigors of public interaction – not to mention the adverse effects of inclement weather, pollution, and critter waste. Make sure your signage can be easily cleaned with just soap and water. Also inquire about the worst-case scenario, graffiti (paint, permanent marker, decals, etc.). These should be able to be safely removed using organic solvents.

Outdoor signs can get pricey, which is why it's important you use a material that's durable and won't have to be replaced every couple of years due to fading, cracking, or

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Tip #4: Maintain the integrity of your brand and message.

Outdoor signs should reflect your organization's brand and message for multiple reasons. Whether you're designing warning and regulatory signs, path and trail markers, or interpretive signage, you must provide your visitors with clear and concise safety and direction.

Additionally, signage connects visitors to your environment and should provide long-term value through its vibrant visual impact. Signage can be the first impression a visitor or customer receives when encountering your brand. First impressions matter!

When you purchase an outdoor sign, ensure the manufacturer can meet all of your artwork requirements. Ask your producer if they can match colors and cut signs into any shape.

Lastly, don't forget about finishing options. Depending on where your sign is located, the finish can play a huge role in readability. Many sign companies offer a matte, satin or gloss finish. If the sign is touched by visitors, see if they have a finish that minimizes smudges and fingerprints.

Tip #5: Ensure your signage can be easily installed.

Your hard work and energy should be focused on designing valuable signage for your customers, not on figuring out how to install large, heavy, and awkward displays. When you purchase an outdoor sign, make sure the signage company offers affordable, easy-to-install mounting solutions that will showcase your beautiful and informative designs.

The key take-away for purchasing the perfect outdoor signage?

Durability. Durability. Durability. I can't stress enough how important durability is for this long-term investment.

How do I begin the signage process?

Find a sign vendor committed to helping you inspire, guide, and educate your visitors by creating high-quality signage that will keep your visitors coming back. A quality sign company should have a proven track record and be able to turn around products quickly. Lastly, be sure to ask about a warranty so you don't have to keep replacing your signage.

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By Nan Buckardt, Director of Education, Lake County Forest Preserves

We are living in a time when days are filled with uncertainty. Information changes frequently around health and safety guidelines to limit the spread of COVID-19 in our communities, making it difficult to make decisions––and yet we are all charged with moving forward.

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While the state's stay-at-home orders have forced the temporary cancellation of all in-person education programs and summer camps, our professional educators have developed an array of virtual programs, activities and digital resources for at-home learning and engagement.

It was that charge which led the Lake County Forest Preserves to cancel or modify its in-person programs and events for the summer and beyond, and make the switch to virtual programming to safeguard participants, staff and volunteers. For the short-term, this means no concerts or special events with large gatherings of people, or summer camps with groups of a dozen or more kids, or even smaller casual interpretive hikes.

While the state's stay-at-home orders have forced the temporary cancellation of all in-person education programs and summer camps, our professional educators have developed an array of virtual programs, activities and digital resources for at-home learning and engagement. Program series feature virtual wildflower walks, scavenger hunts, citizen science opportunities, and viewing items from the Dunn Museum's collections and archives.

“Backyard Birding� was one of the first virtual programs developed in April. One of our environmental educators, who is a birding expert, launched the program to assist people with detecting the species they see while birdwatching in their own backyards.

Birdwatching, growing in popularity during the pandemic, can be fun, educational and a nice diversion in these times.

Though in-person summer camps are also canceled, many have been replaced with virtual camps to offer a balanced learning experience for children ages 6–14.

Virtual experiences will be offered each day of a camp session. Depending on the topic and age group, that time may include a story or instruction on topics ranging from animals to artifacts. Fees and schedules have been modified, and auxiliary activities provide athome learning along with a self-guided outdoor adventure component families can do together.

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Children may be tasked with a challenge to complete by the next day, such as organizing their tackle box, going into their backyard and counting how many different kinds of insects they can find, or drawing a picture of a dinosaur to share. We know many families are visiting preserves right now. Our hope is to equip the kids with new skills and information that will make each visit more enjoyable and exciting.

In addition, our history and environmental educators helped teachers finish the school year remotely. Our virtual field trip experiences were designed to engage students and lighten the load for teachers. Interactive programs used artifacts, live animals, and biofacts to help students learn about local history and the natural world. Teachers could choose from topics including early settlers, animal adaptions, lake ecology, and plant life cycles.

Each of us is living through a significant moment in history.

As principal steward of Lake County's history, curators at the Bess Bower Dunn Museum in Libertyville have launched a new project to document the impact of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. They are seeking to collect stories, digital photographs, and objects

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that demonstrate how COVID-19 is affecting the lives of Lake County residents, businesses and caregivers.

Residents have an open invitation to share their personal experiences, photographs and artifacts for potential study, research and exhibition in the future.

Our education staff is taking advantage of this time to further develop their skills, learn new techniques, and experiment with new ways of engaging with our residents.

We plan on taking what we learn in the short-term and applying it to our long-term plan, making the best of today to reach more people tomorrow.

Lake County Forest Preserves Excellence is in our Nature As principal guardian of Lake County's open space and natural areas since 1958, we set the standard in nature and historic preservation, and in outdoor recreation and education. Acknowledged as a regional and national leader, we protect nearly 31,000 acres of natural land and are the second-largest Forest Preserve District in Illinois. Learn more at LCFPD.org.

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Outdoors Nature Nurturing Communities Back to Health

By Elizabeth S. Kessler, MBA, CPRE, Executive Director, McHenry County Conservation District, Chair, Chicago Wilderness

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Stay at home orders were enacted to mitigate the spread of the virus; forcing businesses, schools, community recreation centers, bars, restaurants, and places of worship to close. While families and communities experienced the adverse effects of COVID-19 firsthand, nature welcomed the arrival of spring.

It has been said that out of chaos comes opportunity. As uncertainty, fear, and illness spread across the region, the gifts of the natural world sustained the community and nurtured resiliency through this forced hiatus. With lives out of balance, nature beckoned people to take notice and make changes; maybe not the ones they wanted, but the ones they so desperately needed.

Fortunately, the McHenry County Conservation District is home to the Chicago Wilderness region, a spectacular concentration of rare ecosystems - many of which have national and global significance for conservation and provide for the safe refuge of a diverse array of species, including people, plants, and animals.

This vibrant region, with a richness of breathtakingly beautiful landscapes where people and nature thrive together from city neighborhoods to farming communities, adds to local health and economic vitality.

Online learning opportunities have greatly shifted to digital environments putting learning at your fingertips. What started as a way to support student learning for local teachers and parents during the COVID-19 pandemic has expanded to include something for everyone. The Conservation District has put together additional online learning resources that include a variety of ways for students, volunteers, individuals, and families to get enlightened and inspired by the natural world. We adapted during the outbreak and seized the opportunity to strategically strengthen our value to the community not only by staying open but through innovative digital e-learning program alternatives such as:

Tom Talks Using the format of the popular TEDTalks, Dr. Tom Simpson, Research Field Station Ecologist, in cooperation with Jacki Bero, Volunteer Coordinator, hosts a series of webinars for volunteers and the general public.

Topics include Stalking the Elusive White Oak, Walking Behind the Glaciers, Sprits of the Spring: Woodland Wildflowers, and Everything You Wanted to Know About Soils – But Were Afraid to Ask. The programs continued to educate and engage our volunteers while they were not permitted to get out on site for volunteer workdays.

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Wonders of the Wild

Discover Nature

This environmental education series, Wonders of the Wild, is narrated by Education Program Coordinator Kim Compton who explores nature questions and more, which is perfect for all ages.

Digital and printable resources for self-guided nature activities.

Virtual Field Study Spring is one of the favorite times for school field studies to the Conservation District. With the extra precautions being taken, these field studies have had to be canceled or postponed. The Conservation District wanted to give students the opportunity to still experience sites while at home, but while originally created for teachers and students, Virtual Field Studies is great for all ages who want to discover more.

Behind the Scenic Views In the Behind the Scenic Views series, experts at the Conservation District discuss recent projects including things like wetland restoration and mussel surveys.

Lost Valley Nature Detectives Explore the outdoors with self-guided nature-based craft activities.

Roving Naturalists Naturalist pop-up programming at different sites to encourage getting outdoors and to find a new site to explore – less traveled paths.

Conservation Café The Chicago Wilderness Café serves up conversations on topics related to our Chicago Wilderness focus areas.

Participants can virtually connect with colleagues to share ideas, pose questions and find out what's happening around the region.

Due to the Conservation District's excellent advocacy efforts and support for public lands, outdoor activity was deemed a necessity for maintaining physical and mental health - a nature prescription of sorts. The Conservation District was there to provide essential services to its communities.

Across the region, conservation areas, forest preserves, parks, trails, and backyards remained open to answer the basic human instinct to survive amidst the chaos – the call of the wild summoning people to go, be healthy and get outdoors. Conservation areas experienced increased site use and activity by more than 70% according to Google mobility analytics.

The McHenry County Conservation District is in the business of improving and even saving lives and hopefully this pandemic will awaken humanity to take action on climate change. There has never been a more urgent need to support increased investments in ecological restoration and green infrastructure projects which have never been more imperative to our health than they are now.

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Joe Potts

Greg Vitale

Joe Potts has been named executive director of the Bloomingdale Park District.

Greg Vitale has been hired as the executive director of the Mokena Community Park District.

Joe has served as the Bloomingdale Park District’s director of parks and planning since 2012 and has more than 27 years of combined experience working for Illinois park districts and non-profit organizations in North Carolina.

He holds a master’s degree in leisure studies from the University of Illinois – ChampaignUrbana and a Bachelor of Science degree in management from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. Hailing from Peoria, Joe grew up participating in park district programs and went on to become assistant superintendent of parks at the Oak Lawn Park District (1993-95) and then superintendent of operations at the Urbana Park District (1995-2003). He served as executive director of the Alleghany Wellness Center in Sparta, North Carolina in 2003 and worked at Blue Ridge Conservancy in Boone, North Carolina as deputy director of land protection (2008-2011) and director of development and communications (20112012).

Greg is a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional and a Certified Pool Operator. He holds a Master of Public Administration degree from Governor’s State University and a Bachelor of Science in Recreation and Sport Management from Indiana State University. Greg comes to the Mokena Community Park District from the Town of Munster, Indiana, where he served as the director of parks and recreation since 2015. Prior to that, he was the manager of fitness center operations for the Addison Park District (2007-2015) and recreation supervisor and facility manager for the Homewood-Flossmoor Park District (2000-2006). Greg has four years of experience in the private sector as director of business development for the Midwest Training and Ice Center in Dyer, Indiana. He is an experienced presenter at numerous conferences, and has served on several IPRA and SPRA committees, often as chairperson.

In Memoriam Illinois Parks & Recreation extends our condolences to the family of John Comerio, who passed away on May 25, 2020.

John served as development director of the Illinois Association of Park Districts from June 1999 until December 2006. John managed Friends of Illinois Parks and provided strategic planning and grant preparation assistance for IAPD member agencies. He also served as the IAPD liaison for the Municipal Park and Recreation Agency Task Force and the Research Advisory Council. Prior to coming to IAPD, John was employed for nearly 30 years with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. He was a Certified Park and Recreation Professional who began his career in parks and recreation as superintendent of recreation for the Lockport Township Park District.

John left a lasting impression on the field of parks, recreation, and conservation, and he will be deeply missed.

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IAPD CORPORATE/ASSOCIATE MEMBERS ACCOUNTANTS Lauterbach & Amen, LLP Ron Amen 668 N. River Road Naperville, IL 60563 630-393-1483 PH 630-393-2516 FX ramen@lauterbachamen.com www.lauterbachamen.com Sikich LLP Frederick Lantz 1415 West Diehl Road Suite 400 Naperville, IL 60563 630-566-8400 PH 630-566-8401 FX flantz@sikich.com www.sikich.com

AQUATICS Aqua Pure Enterprises, Inc. Thomas Todner 1404 Joliet Rd., Suite A Romeoville, IL 60446 630-771-1310 PH 630-771-1301 FX tom@aquapure-il.com www.aquapure-IL.com Halogen Supply Company, Inc. Rich Hellgeth 4653 W. Lawrence Ave. Chicago, IL 60630 773-286-6300 PH 773-286-1024 FX rhellgeth@halogensupply.com www.halogensupply.com Spear Corporation Sam Blake 12966 North 50 West Roachdale, IN 46172 765-577-3100 PH 765-577-3101 FX sblake@spearcorp.com www.spearcorp.com

ARCHITECTS/ ENGINEERS

represents a donation to the Friends of Illinois Parks Foundation

FGM Architects, Inc. John Dzarnowski 1211 W. 22nd Street, Suite 705 Charles Vincent George Oak Brook, IL 60523 Architects 630-574-8300 PH Bruce George 1245 E. Diehl Road, Suite101 630-574-9292 FX johnd@fgmarchitects.com Naperville, IL 60563 www.fgmarchitects.com 630-357-2023 PH 630-357-2662 FX Gewalt Hamilton bgeorge@cvgarchitects.com Associates, Inc. www.cvgarchitects.com Tom Rychlik 625 Forest Edge Dr. Dewberry Architects Inc. Vernon Hills, IL 60061 Daniel Atilano 847-478-9700 PH 132 N. York St., Suite 2C 847-478-9701 FX Elmhurst, IL 60126 trychlik@gha-engineers.com 847-841-0571 PH www.gha-engineers.com 847-695-6579 FX datilano@dewberry.com HR Green www.dewberry.com Dave Reitz 420 N. Front St., Suite 100 DLA Architects, Ltd. McHenry, IL 60050 Lou Noto 815-385-1778 PH Two Pierce Place 815-385-1781 FX Suite 1300 dreitz@hrgreen.com Itasca, IL 60143 www.hrgreen.com 847-742-4063 PH l.noto@dla-ltd.com Rocco Castellano Design www.dla-ltd.com Studio Inc. Rocco Castellano Eriksson Engineering 30 N Vincennes Circle Associates Racine, WI 53402 Michael Renner 312-925-0907 PH 145 Commerce Drive rocco.castellano@ Suite A castellano.design Grayslake, IL 60030 847-223-4804 PH Sheehan Nagle Hartray 847-223-4864 FX Architects mrenner@eea-ltd.com Eric Penney www.eea-ltd.com 130 E Randolph, Suite 3100 Chicago, IL 60601 Farnsworth Group, Inc. 312-633-2900 PH Bruce Brown eric@snh-a.com 100 Walnut Street www.snh-a.com Suite 200 Peoria, IL 61602 Stantec Consulting 309-689-9888 PH Services Inc. 309-689-9820 FX Jim Maland bbrown@f-w.com 733 Marquette Ave. www.f-w.com Suite 1000 Minneapolis, MN 55402 651-636-4600 ext 4759 PH 651-636-1311 FX jim.maland@stantec.com www.stantec.com

Studio 222 Architects Tim Schmitt 222 S. Morgan St., Ste 4B Chicago, IL 60607 312-850-4970 PH 312-850-4978 FX tschmitt@studio222architects.com www.studio222architects.com Wight & Company Robert Ijams 2500 N. Frontage Rd Darien, IL 60561 630-739-6644 PH 630-969-7979 FX rijams@wightco.com www.wightco.com Williams Architects, LTD Karen Lellios 500 Park Boulevard Suite 800 Itasca, IL 60143 630-221-1212 PH 630-221-1220 FX ktlellios@williams-architects.com www.williams-architects.com WT Group Troy Triphahn 2675 Pratum Ave. Hoffman Estates, IL 60192 224-293-6333 PH 224-293-6444 FX Troy.Triphahn@wtengineering.com www.wtengineering.com

ATTORNEYS Ancel Glink Derke Price 140 South Dearborn Street 6th Floor Chicago, IL 60603 312-782-7606 PH 312-782-0943 FX dprice@ancelglink.com www.ancelglink.com

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Brooks, Tarulis & Tibble, LLC Rick Tarulis 1733 Park Street, Suite 100 Naperville, IL 60563 630-355-2101 PH 630-355-7843 FX rtarulis@napervillelaw.com www.napervillelaw.com

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IAPD CORPORATE/ASSOCIATE MEMBERS Chapman and Cutler LLP Kelly Kost 111 W. Monroe St. Chicago, IL 60603 312-845-3814 PH 312-576-1814 FX kost@chapman.com www.chapman.com

Tressler LLP Andrew Paine 233 S. Wacker Drive, 61st FL Chicago, IL 60606 312-627-4154 PH 312-627-1717 FX apaine@tresslerllp.com www.tresslerllp.com

Hervas, Condon & Bersani, P.C. Michael Bersani 333 Pierce Rd., Suite 195 Itasca, IL 60143 630-773-4774 PH 630-773-4851 FX mbersani@hcbattorneys.com www.hcbattorneys.com

AUDIO/VISUAL/ PHOTOGRAPHY

Ice Miller LLP Shelly Scinto 200 West Madison Street, #3500 Chicago, IL 60606 312-726-8116 PH 312-726-2529 FX Shelly.Scinto@icemiller.com www.icemiller.com/ Littler Mendelson PC Christopher Johlie 321 N. Clark St., Suite 1000 Chicago, IL 60654 312-795-3230 PH cjohlie@littler.com www.littler.com Montana Welch, LLC Erin Blake 11950 S. Harlem Avenue Suite 102 Palos Heights, IL 60463 Robbins Schwartz Steven Adams 631 E. Boughton Road, #200 Bolingbrook, IL 60440 630-929-3639 PH 815-722-0450 FX sadams@robbinsschwartz.com www.robbins-schwartz.com

Jaffe Films, Inc. Greg Bizzaro 6135 River Bend Drive Lisle, IL 60532 630-730-3777 PH 630-353-0887 FX greg@jaffefilms.com www.jaffefilms.com

BACKGROUND SCREENING NCSI - SSCI Chris Goodman 1853 Piedmont Rd Suite 100 Marietta, GA 30066 866-996-7412 PH CGoodman@ssci2000.com www.ssci2000.com/

BANKING Fifth Third Bank Sean Durkin 1151 State Street Lemont, IL 60439 630-297-5987 PH 630-257-2421 FX sean.durkin@53.com www.53.com

CONCESSIONS

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT Corporate Construction Services Michael Rink 1323 Butterfield Rd., Suite 110 Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-271-0500 PH 630-271-0505 FX ccs@corporateconstruction services.com www.corporateconstruction services.com Frederick Quinn Corporation Jack Hayes 103 South Church Street Addison, IL 60101 630-628-8500 PH 630-628-8595 FX jhayes@fquinncorp.com www.fquinncorp.com/ Henry Bros. Co. Marc Deneau 9821 S. 78th Ave. Hickory Hills, IL 60457 708-430-5400 PH 708-430-8262 FX mdeneau@henrybros.com www.henrybros.com Lamp Incorporated Ian Lamp 460 N. Grove Ave. Elgin, IL 60120 847-741-7220 PH 847-741-9677 FX ilamp@lampinc.net www.lampinc.net

V3 Companies Greg Wolterstorff 7325 Janes Ave. Woodridge, IL 60517 630-729-6334 PH 630-724-9202 FX gwolterstorff@v3co.com www.v3co.com

CONSULTANTS aQity Research & Insights, Inc. Jeff Andreasen 820 Davis. St. Suite 502 Evanston, IL 60201 847-424-4171 PH 847-328-8995 FX j.andreasen@aqityresearch.com www.aqityresearch.com Inspec, Inc. David Foler 8618 W. Catalpa Suites 1109-1110 Chicago, IL 60656 773-892-2771 PH 773-444-0221 FX dfoler@inspec.com www.inspec.com

DATA COLLECTION Smart Field Forms Lee Forkenbrock 8745 W. Higgins Rd. Chicago, IL 60631 815-210-2529 PH lee@smartfieldforms.com smartfieldforms.com/

ENERGY MANAGEMENT

Norwalk Concrete Industries Scott Kinnamon 80 Commerce Drive Norwalk, OH 44857 800-733-3624 PH 419-663-0627 FX skinn@nciprecast.com www.nciprecast.com

Ameren Carol Kulek 1110 Memory Lane Springfield, IL 62707 217-741-2489 PH CKulek@ameren.com www.amerenillinoissavings.com

IAPD Gold Medal Products, Co. Jim Such 45 North York Rd. Besenville, IL 60106 800-767-5352 PH 630-860-5980 FX jsuch@gmpopcorn.com www.goldmedalchicago.com

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IAPD CORPORATE/ASSOCIATE MEMBERS FINANCIAL

INSURANCE

Mesirow Financial, Inc. Todd Krzyskowski 353 N. Clark St. Chicago, IL 60654 312-595-7842 PH tkrzyskowski@ mesirowfinancial.com www.mesirowfinancial.com

Illinois Parks Association Risk Services (IPARKS) Ryan Pnakovich 315 South Kalamazoo Mall Kalamazoo, MI 49007 800-692-9522 PH rpnakovich@bfgroup.com www.iparks.org

Seven Utility Management Consultants Dale Snyder 7704 Oakridge Rd. North Little Rock, AR 72116 501-835-3142 PH 866-546-8561 FX dsnyder@sevenutility.com www.sevenutility.com

Speer Financial, Inc. Aaron Gold 1 N LaSalle St #4100 Chicago, IL 60602 312-780-2280 PH 312-346-8833 FX agold@speerfinancial.com www.speerfinancial.com

Park District Risk Management Agency (PDRMA) Brett Davis 2033 Burlington Avenue Lisle, IL 60532 630-769-0332 PH 630-769-0449 FX bdavis@pdrma.org www.pdrma.org

Trane Aaron Raftery 7100 S. Madison Willowbrook, IL 60527 630-203-7007 PH Aaron.Raftery@irco.com www.trane.com

Wintrust Governemnt Funds Tim O'Brien 231 S. LaSalle Street 2nd Floor Chicago, IL 60604 312-981-0765 PH tobrien@wintrust.com www.wintrust.com/

ComEd Energy Efficiency Program Amy Populorum 3 Lincoln Centre Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181 630-437-4610 PH Amy.Populorum@ComEd.com www.ComEd.com/ PublicSectorEE

ENTERTAINMENT Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament Andy Hardy 2001 N. Roselle Rd. Schaumburg, IL 60195 847-882-1995 PH 847-882-0202 FX andy.hardy@medievaltimes.com www.medievaltimes.com

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS Deigan & Associates Kirsten Myles 28835 N. Herky Dr. Lake Bluff, IL 60044 847-578-5000 PH 847-549-3242 FX kmyles@deiganassociates.com www.deiganassociates.com

FLOORING Sport Court Midwest Patrick Walker 747 N Church Rd. Suite G10 Elmhurst, IL 60126 630-350-8652 PH 630-350-8657 FX info@courtofsport.com www.courtofsport.com

HOSPITALITY Hyatt Regency Chicago Sarah Welsch 151 E Wacker Dr Chicago, IL 60601 312-239-4559 PH sarah.welsch@hyatt.com www.chicagoregency.hyatt.com

INVESTMENTS PFM Asset Management Michelle Binns 222 N. LaSalle, Suite 910 Chicago, IL 60601 312-523-2423 PH 312-977-1570 FX BINNSM@pfm.com www.pfm.com PMA Financial Network, Inc. 2135 City Gate Ln., 7th Floor Naperville, IL 60563 630-718-8710 FX Courtney Soesbe – Financial 630-657-6421 PH csoesbe@pmanetwork.com Andrew Kim – Securities 630-657-6449 PH akim@pmanetwork.com www.pmanetwork.com

LAND PRESERVATION

Openlands Gerald Adelmann 25 E. Washington Street Suite 1650 Chicago, IL 60602 312-427-4256 PH 312-427-6251 FX jadelmann@openlands.org www.openlands.org

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS Hitchcock Design Group Bill Inman 22 E. Chicago Ave., Suite 200A Naperville, IL 60540 630-961-1787 PH 630-961-9925 FX binman@hitchcock designgroup.com www.hitchcockdesigngroup.com JSD Professional Services Lori Vierow 161 Horizon Drive Suite 101 Verona, WI 53593 312-644-3379 PH lori.vierow@jsdinc.com www.jsdinc.com/

LANDSCAPE SERVICES/SUPPLIES Flood's Royal Flush Inc. Mimi Lomeli PO Box 303 Wasco, IL 60175 ForeverLawn Chicago Justin Lettenberger 3438 Colony Bay Drive Rockford, IL 61109 779-368-0251 PH justin@chicago.foreverlawn.com www.foreverlawnchicago.com

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Illinois Nature Conservancy Ashley Maybanks 8 S. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60603 amaybanks@TNC.ORG www.nature.org/illinois

Homer Industries, LLC Todd Hahn 14000 S. Archer Ave. Lockport, IL 60441 815-838-0863 PH 815-838-0378 FX todd@homertree.com www.homerindustries.com

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IAPD CORPORATE/ASSOCIATE MEMBERS Kompan Todd Stortz 4170 N Marine Dr 8L Chicago, IL 60613 312-622-7492 PH todsto@kompan.com www.kompan.com

McGinty Bros., Inc. Lawn & Tree Care Brian McGinty 3744 E. Cuba Rd. Long Grove, IL 60047 847-438-5161 PH 847-438-1883 FX brian@mcgintybros.com www.mcgintybros.com

NuToys Leisure Products Sheilah Wasielewski 915 Hillgrove LaGrange, IL 60525 708-579-9055 PH 708-579-0109 FX sheilahw@nutoys4fun.com www.nutoys4fun.com

LIGHTING Musco Sports Lighting David Miller 100 1st Ave. West Oskaloosa, IA 52577 877-388-7652 PH david.miller@musco.com www.musco.com

NATURAL GAS Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency Program Tara Brown 1844 Ferry Road Naperville, IL 60563 630-388-3844 PH tarbrown@southernco.com www.southernco.com

PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS Commercial Recreation Specialists Ron Romans 807 Liberty Drive, Suite 101 Verona, WI 53593 877-896-8442 PH info@crs4rec.com www.crs4rec.com Cunningham Recreation Michele Breakfield 2135 City Gate Lane Ste 300 Naperville, IL 60563 800-438-2780 PH 630-554-3750 FX michele@cunninghamrec.com www.cunninghamrec.com

Rainbow Farm Enterprises Inc Jackie Musch 25715 S. Ridgeland Avenue Monee, IL 60449 708-534-1070 PH 708-534-1138 FX rainbowfarms@nettech.com www.RainbowFarmsMulch.com Team REIL Inc. John Cederlund 17421 Marengo Rd. Union, IL 60180 888-438-7345 PH 815-923-2204 FX john@getreil.com www.getreil.com

PLAQUES/STATUES/ AWARDS Bronze Memorial Company Rick Gurrieri 1842 N. Elston Ave. Chicago, IL 60642 773-276-7972 PH 773-276-9656 FX bronzememco@gmail.com bronzememco.com

SIGNAGE Divine Signs & Graphics Jeff Miller 601 Estes Avenue Schaumburg, IL 60173 847-534-9220 PH jmiller@divinesignsinc.com www.divinesignsinc.com

TECHNOLOGY Access One Inc Bryan Green 820 West Jackson, 6th Floor Chicago, IL 60607 312-441-0183 PH bgreen@accessoneinc.com www.accessoneinc.com/ Call One Larry Widmer 225 W. Wacker Dr., 8th Floor Chicago, IL 60606 312-496-6693 PH lwidmer@callone.com www.callone.com Links Technology Solutions, Inc. James Burke 440 East State Parkway Suite 220 Schaumburg, IL 60173 847-252-7285 PH 847-574-5824 FX jburke@linkstechnology.com www.linkstechnology.com Vermont Systems Kathy Messier 12 Market Pl Essex Junction, VT 5452 802-8796993 PH 802-879-6993 FX kathym@vermontsystems.com www.vermontsystems.com

Monroe Truck Equipment Sarah Monson 1051 W. 7th Street Monroe, WI 53566 608-329-8112 PH smonson@monroetruck.com www.monroetruck.com

WATER RECREATION WhiteWater West Justin Yeager 6700 McMillan Way Richmond, BC V6W1J7 604-273-1068 PH justin.yeager@whitewaterwest.com www.whitewaterwest.com/

WORKERS COMPENSATION Illinois Public Risk Fund Robert Buhs 7851 W. 185th Street Suite 101 Tinley Park, IL 60477 708-429-6300 PH 708-429-6488 FX rbuhs@iprf.com www.iprf.com

WORKPLACE SAFETY TRAINING Serve and Protect Law LLC Joseph Crimmins 3400 W. Stonegate Blvd. #2339 Arlington Heights, IL 60005 847-691-1665 PH joe@serveandprotectlaw.com www.serveandprotectlaw.com

IAPD PURCHASING

TIPS Jeff Shokrian 4845 US Hwy 271 North Pittsburg, TX 75686 866-839-8477 PH 866-839-8472 FX sarah.bond@tips-usa.com www.tips-usa.com

TRANSPORTATION

Best Bus Sales Rob Zimmerman 1216 Rand Rd. Des Plaines, IL 60016 847-297-3177 PH 847-789-8592 FX karen@bestbussales.com www.bestbussales.com

Please contact Alan Howard at ahoward@ilparks.org for updates or changes to your corporate member listing.

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IPRA COMMERCIAL MEMBERS AQUATICS AQUATIC COUNCIL, LLC Timothy Auerhahn, CPOI 78 Lyndale Drive Rochester, NY 14624 tim@aquaticcouncil.com 585-415-6926 PH aquaticcouncil.com JEFF ELLIS AND ASSOCIATES, INC. Joe Stefanyak PO Box 2160 Windermere, FL 34786 joe.stefanyak@jellis.com 407-401-7120 PH jellis.com JUST IN TIME POOL & SPA Michael Butkovich 121 Eisenhower Lane Lombard, IL 60148 justintimepool@yahoo.com 312-622-2223 PH RAMUC POOL PAINT Rebecca Spencer 36 Pine Street Rockaway, NJ 07866 rspencer@ramucpoolpaint.com 800-745-6756 PH ramucpoolpaint.com SPEAR CORPORATION Brian Spear 12966 N County Road 50 W Roachdale, IN 46172-9538 bspear@spearcorp.com 765-522-1126 PH spearcorp.com VORTEX AQUATIC STRUCTURES INTERNATIONAL Scott Stefanc 11024 Bailey Road, Suite C Cornelius, NC, 28031 sstefanc@vortex-intl.com 877-586-7839 PH vortex-intl.com

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION BID EVOLUTION Steve Kulovits 1905 Sequoia Drive Suite 201 Aurora, IL 60506 stevek@bidevolution.com 630-450-8360 PH bidevolution.com

FREDERICK QUINN CORP Jack Hayes 103 S. Church Street Addison, IL 60101 jhayes@fquinncorp.com 630-628-8500 PH fquinncorp.com INTEGRAL CONSTRUCTION INC. Christopher Osinski 320 Rocbaar Drive Romeoville, IL 60446 cosinski@buildintegral.com 844-317-7403 PH LAMP INCORPORATED Ian Lamp 460 N. Grove Avenue Elgin, IL 60120 ilamp@lampinc.net 847-741-7220 (305) PH lampinc.net MIDWEST EQUIPMENT COMPANY: TAYLOR, FLAVOR BURST & BROASTER Mitch Brechon 2511 Cassens Dr. Fenton, MO 63026 mbrechon@taylormidwest.com 815-980-0789 PH taylormidwest.com STALKER SPORTS FLOORS Steve Stalker 1215 W Waupaca Street info@stalkersportsfloors.com 800-831-8773 PH stalkersportsfloors.com

COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION APPLE CANYON LAKE PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION Ashlee Miller 14A157 Canyon Club Drive Apple River, IL 61001-9576 Ashlee.Miller@applecanyonlake.org 815-492-2238 PH applecanyonlake.org

COOPERATIVE PURCHASING CONTRACTS

ENERGY MANAGEMENT MIDWEST MECHANICAL Jaylen Thompson 801 Parkview Boulevard Lombard, IL 60148 jaylen.thompson@midwestmech.com 630-280-6262 PH midwestmech.com

ENTERTAINMENT & EVENT SERVICES FLOODS ROYAL FLUSH Coleen Geary PO Box 303 Wasco, IL 60183-0303 Coleen.Geary@FloodsRoyalFlush.com 888-358-7404 PH floodsroyalflush.com MELROSE PYROTECHNICS Jonathan Gesse PO Box 302 Kingsbury, IN 46345 jon@melrosepyro.com 219-393-5522 PH melrosepyro.com

FINANCE 5/3 FIFTH THIRD BANK Sean Patrick Durkin 1151 State St. Lemont, IL 60439-4200 Sean.Durkin@53.com 630-297-5987 PH 53.com LAUTERBACH & AMEN, LLP Ron Amen 668 N. River Road Naperville, IL 60563 ramen@lauterbachamen.com 630-393-1483 PH lauterbachamen.com SPEER FINANCIAL Aaron Gold One North LaSalle Street Suite 4100 Chicago, IL 60602 agold@speerfinancial.com 312-780-2280 PH speerfinancial.com

IPRA FEATHERSTONE, INC. Mike Carpenter, LEED AP 4610 Roslyn Rd. Downers Grove, IL 60515-5809 mikec@featherstoneinc.com 847-271-6021 PH featherstoneinc.com

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SOURCEWELL Jon Henke 202 12th Street NE P.O. Box 219 Staples, MN 56479 Jon.henke@sourcewell-mn.gov 218-541-5102 PH sourcewell-mn.gov

WINTRUST FINANCIAL CORPORATION Aimee Briles 9700 W. Higgins Road 4th Floor Rosemont, IL 60018 abriles@wintrust.com 630-560-2120 PH wintrust.com

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IPRA COMMERCIAL MEMBERS HEALTH & WELLNESS

MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

NATIONAL FITNESS CAMPAIGN Trent Matthias 415 Jackson St. San Francisco, CA 94111 trent@nfchq.com 415-702-4919 ext. 101 PH nationalfitnesscampaign.com

A5 MARKETING & BRANDING John Harris 1 North La Salle Street, 47th Floor Chicago, IL 60602 jharris@a5inc.com 312-706-2525 PH a5inc.com

LANDSCAPE SERVICES/SUPPLIES

EXCEL AERIAL IMAGES, LLC Eric Lee Wilson, CPRP 1137 E. Woodrow Avenue Lombard, IL 60148 ericlee@excelaerialimagesllc.com 224-775-4623 PH excelaerialimages.com

CENTRAL LIFE SCIENCES John Neberz 1501 E. Woodfield Road Suite 200W Schaumburg, IL 60173 jneberz@central.com 847-330-5385 PH centralmosquitocontrol.com

PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS

CONFLUENCE Craig Soncrant 307 N. Michigan Ave., #601 Chicago, IL 60601 csoncrant@thinkconfluence.com 312-663-5494 PH thinkconfluence.com

CUNNINGHAM RECREATION Michele Breakfield 2135 City Center Lane Suite 300 Naperville, IL 60563 michele@cunninghamrec.com 800-438-2780 PH cunninghamrec.com

GLI, INC. George Petecki 1410 Mills Road Joliet, IL 60433 bridget@georgeslandscaping.com 815-774-0350 PH georgeslandscaping.com

FIELDTURF USA, INC. Jonathan Huard 175 N. Industrial Boulevard NE Calhoun, GA 30701 jonathan.huard@fieldturf.com 630-474-9817 PH fieldturf.com

GREEN-UP Bernard Schroeder 23940 Andrew Road Plainfield, IL 60585 sandy@green-up.com 815-372-3000 PH green-up.com

PLAY & PARK STRUCTURES Steve Casada 303 Bass Street Park Hills, MO 63601 scasada@playandpark.com 573-631-1968 PH playandpark.com

NELS JOHNSON TREE EXPERTS Chris Beiser 912 Pitner Avenue Evanston, IL 60202 cbeiser@nelsjohnsontree.com 847-475-1877 PH nelsjohnsontree.com

PLAY & PARK STRUCTURES OF NORTHERN IL/PLAY & PARK STRUCTURES Patrick Puebla 4516 21st Avenue Moline, IL 61265 ppuebla@playandpark.com 309-339-0536 PH

CARDNO Anngie Richter 6605 W Steger Road, Suite A Monee, IL 60449-7044 anngie.richter@cardno.com 708-627-8018 PH cardno.com DEUCHLER ENGINEERING CORPORATION Pat Kelsey 230 Woodlawn Avenue Aurora, IL 60506-5194 pkelsey@deuchler.com 630-423-0482 PH deuchler.com DEWBERRY ARCHITECTS INC. Daniel Atilano 132 N York St Elmhurst, IL 60126-3079 datilano@dewberry.com 847-841-0571 PH dewberry.com FGM ARCHITECTS John Dzarnowski 1211 W. 22nd Street Suite 705 Oakbrook, IL 60523 johnd@fgmarchitects.com 630-574-8300 PH fgmarchitects.com GEWALT HAMILTON ASSOCIATES Michael Shrake 625 Forest Edge Drive Vernon Hills, IL 60061 mshrake@gha-engineers.com 847-478-9700 PH gha-engineers.com HITCHCOCK DESIGN GROUP Bill Inman 225 W. Jefferson Avenue Naperville, IL 60540 binman@hitchcockdesigngroup.com 630-961-1787 PH hitchcockdesigngroup.com JSD PROFESSIONAL SERVICES, INC. Lori Vierow 1400 E Touhy Avenue Suite 215 Des Plaines, IL 60018-3339 lori.vierow@jsdinc.com 630-362-6681 PH jsdinc.com

IPRA

THE DAVEY TREE EXPERT COMPANY Mandy McCauley 1375 E Woodfield Road, Suite 204 Schaumburg, IL 60173-5424 mandy.mccauley@davey.com 630-422-1870 PH davey.com THE MULCH CENTER Jim Seckelmann 21457 N. Milwaukee Avenue Deerfield, IL 60015 jim@mulchcenter.com 847-459-7200 PH mulchcenter.com

PLANNING & DESIGN

PLAY ILLINOIS Margaret Chaidez 4716 Roslyn Road Downers Grove, IL 60515 mchaidez@playil.com 630-730-3645 PH playil.com

MANHARD CONSULTING Matt Nelson, PLA, ASLA, LEED AP One Overlook Point, Suite 290 Lincolnshire, IL 60069 mnelson@manhard.com 630-925-1047 PH Manhard.com

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IPRA COMMERCIAL MEMBERS OLSON ECOLOGICAL SOLUTIONS 2221 Hammond Dr Schaumburg, IL 60173-3813 rebecca@olsonecosolutions.com 815-985-2689 PH olsonecosolutions.com SMITHGROUP Brett Weidl 35 E. Wacker Drive Suite 900 Chicago, IL 60601 brett.weidl@smithgroup.com 312-641-0770 PH smithgroup.com STUDIO PARK AVE Benjamin Kutscheid 685 Park Avenue W Highland Park, IL 60035-2425 ben@StudioParkAve.com 847-217-5076 PH studioparkave.com TBDA Tom Bassett-Dilley 216 Harrison Street Oak Park, IL 60304-1534 info@tbdarchitects.com 708-434-0381 PH tbdarchitects.com THE LARSON EQUIPMENT AND FURNITURE COMPANY Dave Dillon 1000 E. State Parkway, Unit F Schaumburg, IL 60173 ddillon@larsoncompany.com 847-705-0460 PH larsoncompany.com WATERMARK ENGINEERING RESOURCES Kenneth M. Price 2631 Ginger Woods Parkway Suite 100 Aurora, IL 60502 kprice@watermark-engineering.com 630-375-1800 PH watermark-engineering.com WIGHT & COMPANY Robert Ijams 2500 N. Frontage Road Darien, IL 60561 rijams@wightco.com 630-739-6644 PH wightco.com

WT GROUP Jaclyn Triphahn 2675 Pratum Avenue Hoffman Estates, IL 60192 Jaclyn.Triphahn@wtengineering.com 224-293-6333 PH wtengineering.com

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ANCEL GLINK DIAMOND BUSH DICIANNI & KRAFTHEFER P.C. Robert Bush 140 S. Dearborn Street 6th Floor Chicago, IL 60603 rbush@ancelglink.com 312-604-9105 PH ancelglink.com

SIGNAGE TERRABILT INC. Donald Meeker 619 Center AVE PO Box 767 Mamaroneck, NY 10543-0767 don@terrabilt.com 914-341-1500 PH terrabilt.wolfenwicked.com

TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS COMMUNITYPASS Tim Bracken 141 Dayton Street, Suite 204 Ridgewood, NJ 07450-4430 tbracken@capturepoint.com 201-689-2323 ext: 202 PH communitypass.net

BERRYDUNN Dannielle Wilson 100 Middle Street 4th Floor East Tower Portland, ME 04101 DWilson@BerryDunn.com 207-842-8121 PH berrydunn.com

RAM COMMUNICATIONS INC. Rob McCoy 2720 S River Rd., Ste 152 Des Plaines, IL 60018-4111 info@ramcomminc.com 847-358-0917 PH ramcomminc.com

GREG PETRY CONSULTING Greg Petry, CPRE 474 Glendenning Place Waukegan, IL 60087 greg@gregpetryconsulting.com 847-287-4721 PH

THINKINGKAP LEARNING SOLUTIONS, INC. Stephania Buteyn 16142 W Blackhawk Drive Lockport, IL 60441-4352 stephania@thinkingkaplearning.com 708-414-0888 PH thinkingkaplearning.com

HR SOURCE Christopher Schneider 3025 Highland Parkway Suite 225 Downers Grove, IL 60515 cschneider@hrsource.org 630-963-7600 x232 PH

VERMONT SYSTEMS, INC. Kathy Messier 12 Market Place Essex Junction, VT 05452 kathym@vermontsystems.com 877-883-8757 PH vermontsystems.com

ILLINOIS PUBLIC RISK FUND Robert Buhs 7851 W. 185th Street Suite 101 Tinley Park, IL 60477 rbuhs@iprf.com 708-429-6300 PH iprf.com

IPRA WILLIAMS ARCHITECTS Olga Henderson 500 Park Boulevard Suite 800 Itasca, IL 60143 ohhenderson@williamsarchitects.com 630-221-1212 PH williams-architects.com

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Illinois Parks & Recreation

PDRMA Brett Davis 2033 Burlington Avenue Lisle, IL 60532 bdavis@pdrma.org 630-769-0332 PH pdrma.org

TRANE Aaron Raftery 7100 S. Madison Street Willowbrook, IL 60527 aaron.raftery@irco.com 630-203-7007 PH irco.com

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