Representatives from Illinois park districts, forest preserves, conservation, recreation and special recreation agencies were recognized Oct. 14 at a statewide "Best of the Best" awards gala presented by the Illinois Association of Park Districts at the Wheeling Park District's Traditions at Chevy Chase Country Club.
The awards gala provided an opportunity to give board members, citizen volunteers, businesses, government officials and media the recognition they deserve for doing so much to advance parks, recreation and conservation. IAPD presented the St. Charles Park District with an Agency Anniversary Award for its centennial anniversary.
"It is important to recognize those who give so much of their time, resources and talents to making the Illinois park, recreation and conservation system one of the best in the nation," said Peter Murphy, president and chief executive officer of the IAPD.
The Illinois State Historical Society recognized the St. Charles Park District for its milestone celebration serving the Fox Valley area for 100 years. The historical society hosted its 27th annual awards banquet recognizing 40 Illinois businesses into the elite club on Sept. 24 in Springfield.
"The society's Centennial Awards program began in 1984 as a way to identify and recognize Illinois corporations that were founded here and continue to operate in the Prairie State," said William Furry, ISHS executive director. "To date, Illinois has more than 1,300 centennial businesses."
