From the editor

Parks & Recreation, Dec, 2004 by Rachel Roberts

As I walked toward the huge convention center, I looked at it in amazement. So many people, so much to see, so much space--all celebrating the park and recreation profession. My first NRPA Congress experience took place this past October in Reno/Tahoe, Nev. It was an amazing week, filled with interesting ideas, exciting speakers, valuable educational sessions and interactive exhibits from a variety of companies.

But what were most important to me were those times on the bus, in a meeting room, at the hotel, or even at the NRPA pavilion, where I had a chance to talk to members and find out what they were really looking for in an association and a magazine. There was an infectious energy that spread to everyone involved in Congress, and those in attendance, so when you returned home, you knew why you worked in parks and recreation. It made me feel proud that I was a small part of such a large and diverse field.

This issue is a chance for us to recap that week in October and share our association's news with those who didn't have the opportunity to attend. The special feature beginning on page 35 can only give you a taste of what Congress was like, but I hope it shows how important a conference like this is to the field and our members. I'm already looking forward to next October, when I again get to mingle with members and celebrate what a great profession parks and recreation truly is; but my hope is that this publication, month after month, will serve as a reminder.

Rachel Roberts

Editor, Parks & Recreation