From the Editor- IP March 2006

FROM THE EDITOR

But enough already.

Nearly every time we meet in this space, it seems I'm in a flap about something: could be about the governor, my nonexistent golf game, my dad's tennis matches or my wife's study habits. This has been an endlessly fascinating parade of topics, I'm sure.

Now, it's your turn. Certainly, there's something about the magazine that you'd change - or at least think about changing - if you were in my place.

Are the columns too long or too short?

Am I completely missing an aspect of the industry that needs its own, regular column?

Does the design look fresh or tired?

Can't think of anything? Then let me suggest at least one aspect that I'd like your feedback on. This year, we put our annual listing of golf courses owned or managed by IAPD and IPRA members solely on line. There are a number of smart reasons for this, but I was still reluctant to make the decision. The traffic on our Web site showed that many of you downloaded the golf guide throughout last summer and fall, so that bit of electronically deduced feedback helped. Still, I'd like to know if you find the guide useful as strictly an on line extension of this issue. I can't promise that I will immediately implement any suggestion or change that you offer. But I will respond. You can reach me at rwhelpley@ILparks.org or call at 217-523-4554. And don't limit yourself to calling or writing just now. Do so any time. Because next issue, back to me.

Want Conference Photos?

Each year, a professional photographer takes pictures at our annual conference, while staffers at IAPD and IPRA also snap away, trying to capture as many aspects of the event as possible. We end up with lots of great images, even though only a handful can be used in the magazine and other publications. Most end up in IAPD and IPRA archives.

This year is different. Now you can order 2006 conference photos taken by professional photographer Robert Levy. Here's how:

• Go to www.momentshare.com.
• In the upper left corner, click the "View Event Photographs" option.
• On the next page, enter: IAPD-IPRA in the event name box; and enter: Conference in the event password box. The boxes are case sensitive.
• On the next page, enter your e-mail address.
• Then, you'll arrive at the thumbnail gallery, from which you can order prints.

The secure site accepts credit cards. The photo lab will print and ship your prints to you.

If you have questions or special requests, contact Bob Levy at 773-625-1741.

RODD WHELPLEY
Editor

4 Illinois Parks and Recreation www.ILipra.org