Fond Farewell for Park District Commissioner

Cake and sparkling grape juice welcomed guests to the board meeting on April 19.

The concessions were served in honor of Commissioner Peter Camin’s last meeting as a board member.

Camin, a seven-year board member and former president, recently lost re-election to Dallas Collins.

Under Camin’s presidency of the board, the was honored as a national gold medal award finalist by the National Recreation and Park Association.

Camin’s fellow commissioners offered parting words at his last meeting.

“Since I’ve been on the board, for four years, Peter helped me greatly understand the role and responsibility of this board, and made the transition (into being member) extremely simple,” Commissioner Steve Johnson said. “So for that, and for everything else, I thank you personally.”

President Bob Haderlein also expressed his appreciation for Camin.

“Peter, I’ve known you since 1973. You’ve been a friend for years; you’ve been a tremendous help to me on this board, not to mention your state involvement, not to mention your passion,” Haderlein said. “No one questions your heart and no one questions your dedication.”

Camin said he was caught off-guard by the fond farewell.

“This is very nice and surprising. I was not prepared for this,” Camin said. “You may or may not think you’re getting rid of me, (but) you’re really not.”

Camin said he will continue to be very active within the park district, and that he will continue serving on many related committees both in and out of the district.

Park District Director Debbis Kopas and Hadelerin presented Camin with several parting gifts, including a one-year permanent locker at the , a framed drawing of facilities, a novelty tennis racquet and a new package of golf balls.

Camin left attendees with a final thought before the meeting adjourned.

“Some of the best people I know are in this room and I want to thank you for everything you do,” Camin said.