By Ted Flickinger, Managing Editor

This issue focuses on women in recreation. Illinois is very fortunate to have outstanding women serving as professionals and elected commissioners. We salute their accomplishments and thank them for their untiring commitment.

Various professionals and commissioners discuss their work in a special article. I think you will find it interesting.There are also articles on maternity, paternity and child care leaves, and a women's statewide softball tournament.

In other areas, we're exploring the use of obsolete school buildings for recreational uses. The Dundee Township Park District shares its success about a new nature daycamp program, while the Rockford Park District gives pointers on how local recreation agencies can successfully survive economic hard times. Lastly, former White Sox player Jimmy Piersall tells why he's a premier fan of Illinois parks.

I also call your attention to two special features in this edition. One is the program for the upcoming Governor's Conference on the Economic Significance of Recreation that begins on April 29th. I cannot stress too strongly the importance of your participation in this event.The other is a list of our colleagues who have received professional certification. Their efforts do indeed deserve public recognition.I hope you find the magazine interesting and informative.

The cover photo was taken by IAPD Executive Director Ted Flickinger during Eagle Appreciation Day sponsored by the Illinois Department of Conservation in Hamilton, IL, and Keokuk, IA, along the Mississippi River.

Illinois Parks and Recreation 5 March/April 1986