In This Issue

By Ted Flickinger, Managing Editor

Our first issue in this new year focuses on various "do's and don'ts" of interest to park and recreation professionals. The Sterling Park District explains how it survived a major tragedy. Last April a fire gutted the district's indoor track facility. Almost five months later, a new, more energy efficient facility was reopened. An article by Frank Duis discusses some of the modern technology being used in the rebuilt building.

Intergovernmental cooperation between a park district, school district and city resulted in a new community center in Rolling Meadows. The center serves people of varied ages, interests and needs. Rudolph Nelson explains how this much needed project was developed.

An article on our "don't" list concerns winter camping. Toby Miller, a park interpreter at Starved Rock State Park in Utica, explains the dangers of winter camping for those persons who lack both the proper training and equipment. He also gives wardrobe and equipment suggestions for individuals brave enough to try this rather unusual winter pastime.

Other features in this edition include an article on IPRA's 1984 salaries and fringe benefits study, the Decatur Park Singers, the Wilmette Park District's winter sports program and a recap of the IAPD/IPRA annual State convention held last November.

We are most anxious to hear about your agency's programs, plans and employees. Our magazine manuscript guidelines are printed on the back inside cover of this issue. However, if you need additional information or assistance with preparing an article, do not hesitate to contact us. We would also appreciate receiving your comments about our magazine. Best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous 1985!

On The Cover

New Salem State Park in Petersburg is featured on the cover of this month's magazine. The photo is by Tom Hecht of the Illinois Department of Conservation.

Illinois Parks and Recreation 5 January/February 1985