The Glenview Park District recently presented three Glenview residents Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) and Illinois Parks and Recreation Association Community Service (IPRA) Awards, which are awarded in recognition of ongoing support and outstanding contributions of time, money, services or volunteer work for the advancement of parks and recreation. Illinois State Senator Laura Fine received the award for supporting environmental justice legislations, advocating for the expansion of Park District funding and helping expand access to COVID-19 testing among Glenview residents; Jesse Hall received the award for his work in improving access to the Glenview Community Ice Center and for his contributions while serving on the Glenview-Northbrook Coronavirus Task Force; and Kay Laurie received the award for long-standing service on the Park District’s 4^th of July Committee.

 

“We are immensely grateful to State Senator Fine, Jesse and Kay for their support, partnership and volunteer work,” said Glenview Park District Executive Director Michael McCarty. “It really takes a village – our village – and each of their contributions has helped us in making the Glenview community a healthier, safer place.”

 

During her time in state government, State Senator Fine has supported efforts to expand parks and recreation funding, as well as sponsored environmental justice measures such as the Offshore Wind Energy Economic Development Policy Task Force and declaring September 7, 2019, as Great Lakes Appreciation Day. In 2020, IAPD named her Legislator of the Year.

 

As a member of the Glenview-Northbrook Coronavirus Task Force, Jesse educated agencies and community members on how to stay safe during the pandemic. The Task Force also provides free COVID-19 testing and vaccination clinics. Additionally, Jesse helped create access to the Glenview Community Ice Center via Hospital Drive, ensuring safer traffic flow.

 

In her nearly 20 years volunteering on the Park District’s 4^th of July Committee, Kay has organized and fundraised thousands of dollars to support annual Independence Day celebrations. Her enthusiasm, creativity and dedication have been vital in strengthening the Park District’s community relations.