My sincere apologies to readers of Illinois Parks & Recreation magazine and the writers featured in this issue, which went to press late. So late, in fact, that the proof arrived after the horrific terrorist attack on Tuesday, September 11, 2001, which changed life as we know it in America.

My editor's note—designed to peak your interest in this issues truly quality articles on youth sports and what seniors want to do today—clearly had to change, too. So much seems inconsequential, given the events of that day and what's to come in the future.

Like many of you that Tuesday morning, I immediately checked in with loved ones, friends across the country and colleagues, to make sure everyone in "my camp" was OK.

I looked differently at the American flag, standing half-mast beside buildings and homes and in so many new machinations (bumper stickers, window signs, lapel pins, makeshift accessories for mailboxes). Still a sign of freedom and patriotism, our centuries-old flag became a distinctly new symbol of unity, bonding all of us together in the wake of these unbelievable events.

In Rockford, as in communities around the state, people have pinned ribbons to trees and vigils have taken place on the recreation paths. According to Jan Lockwood of the Rockford Park District, a flag that was flown over the United States Capitol earlier this year will fly in front of the district's administrative offices.

In St. Charles, receptionist Sandy Wurtz crafted red, white, and blue ribbons for her nieces and her co- workers to wear.

The Peoria Park District decided to go ahead with its planned concert at the riverfront on Friday, September 14, but presented it as a benefit for the Red Cross and raised more than $2,600.

Stories like these abound. Keep up your good work, which is so consequential.

ANN M. LONDRIGAN
Editor

4 Illinois Parks and Recreation