By Ted Flickinger Managing Editor

We are very pleased and honored to have William Mott, director of the National Park Service, start the new year with a special article for the IPR magazine. His enthusiasm and optimism about the future of parks and recreation is heartening and contagious. Bill has dedicated a lifetime effort to advancing the park and recreation profession.

Spring isn't far off, so we're taking a special look at maintaining park grounds, preventing sports-related injuries and enhancing playground safety. The safety issue is viewed by agency personnel, a manufacturer of playground equipment and the State Department of Labor.

On a lighter note, love and leisure mix in a Valentine's Day program offered by one central Illinois park district. In addition, there's talent on display at various ice rinks in the northern part of the State.

Other articles explore the ongoing and crucial liability insurance problem, and Illinois' recommendations for the President's Commission on Americans Outdoors. Also, a 1986 Park District Calendar is included in the Legal/Legislative News section for your information and future reference.

Please share your thoughts with us about the magazine. That's the only way we have to incorporate your suggestions and ideas in future issues.

Pictured on the front cover is Campus Lake on the Carbondale campus of Southern Illinois University (SIU). It was taken by Steve Buhman. The photograph is used with permission from the Office of University Relations, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale.

Illinois Parks and Recreation 5 January/February 1986

Pardon our error!

In the November-December, 1985, issue of IPR, we mistakenly "traded" Cubs Catcher Jody Davis to the Chicago White Sox! Cubs fans throughout the State took note of our error. Among them was State Rep. John Matijevich (D-61st) who wrote:

"As a 50-year plus Cub fan, I hope that you know something I don't — and that Carlton Fisk will be wearing a Cub uniform!"

Our apologies to Rep. Matijevich and all Cubs fans. We read the magazine proof three times and missed the obvious. The photograph is reprinted as an indication of our support and loyalty to the Cubs organization.

There has been one good result from our mix-up, though. We're finding out that a great many people do read the magazine. Keep those comments and suggestions coming!

Whether at work or play, IAPD and IPRA effectively spread the message about recreational pursuits and the leisure profession. Past IPRA President Tom Richardson and Past IAPD President Bonnie Noble chatted with Cubs Catcher Jody Davis during a special outing at Wrigley Field last summer.

Illinois Parks and Recreation 6 January/February 1986