EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: Bike trails offer potential economic benefits

Several of my columns have addressed the positive economic value of parks and recreation. Not only here, but I make it a practice at public speaking engagements to highlight the economics of parks and recreation.

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: On Tuesday, we'll see Lansing's priorities

On Tuesday, at least in Illinois, there could be new faces in many local government agencies, and definitely any referendum issues will have a conclusion.

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: Government cooperation is heartening in Lansing

First and foremost, I want to wish you, your family members and friends a very happy new year. May 2013 be joyous and good to you.

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: Candidates, do your homework before election

Just when you thought the election season is over, the local election season starts up, at least for us here in Illinois.

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: First Lansing Autumn Fest promises family fun

Looking for something to do in October? By October you will be reminiscing about the summer. Your children will be over their first-day-of-school nerves. You’ll be thinking about the upcoming holidays and all of the other stressful items in your life. Trust me, you will need a break! So mark…

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: Park Plaza is key aspect of Lansing's downtown

Just recently Kristi DeLaurentiis, director of planning and development for the village of Lansing, authored the column “Building Blocks for the Future” that appeared in The Times. I was one of the attendees at the Sustainable Communities Building Blocks workshop, hosted by Lansing, that she…

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: Parks offer special programs to meet special needs

Welcome to spring 2012. I am confident we all can agree the weather over the last several weeks has been unusual but a pleasant surprise. We all now can start to think about all of the activities we want to participate in since the nice weather is finally here.

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: Boyhood home to disappear, but memories remain

Our home was located in Germantown -- a neighborhood, back in the day, that took care of everybody. My parents were parents of all of my friends and vice versa. It is totally different today. Today many people in the neighborhood do not even know their neighbors. What a shame.

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: Make sure pets get proper care

My family consists of my wife, Barb, and two Alaskan malamutes -- Alce and Maggie May. These two furry family members are the third and fourth Alaskan malamutes we have had. I am positive there are a lot of people out there rolling their eyes when I include two dogs within the term of "famil…

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: Remember 9/11 because it could happen again

Has it really been 10 years since the attack on the World Trade Center in New York? For me, I could not believe what I was seeing on TV. I thought, what the heck is this? I was seeing a building with flames coming out near the top.

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: Two suburban park visionaries will be missed

Lately I have had acquaintances and friends pass away -- very young by most standards.

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: Learn more about Lan-Oak Parks referendum

My last column was directed mostly to my fellow citizens in Lansing. Today I am going to continue with that message because for me it is a very important message for the future of the Lan-Oak Park District and our community.

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: Get the facts on Lan-Oak parks referendum

First and foremost, I want to wish everyone a merry, prosperous and healthy holiday season. This is the time of year we should pause to survey all of the things in our lives we are thankful for. I am confident a smile will come across your face.

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: Good government requires citizens' active participation

On a daily basis we are either reading or listening to how the present economy is affecting state and local governments. If that's not the topic of the day, we are then reading or listening about how government and its officials are corrupt, untrustworthy and self-centered.

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: Get active, enjoy healthy summer activities

Summer is finally in full swing, and there are many programs and special events in which you can participate.

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: Successful communities invest in parks

We're off and running in 2010, and I would like to wish you and your family a belated happy and prosperous New Year.

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD: November holidays shouldn't be overlooked

It is the holiday season! I am pretty sure since it's November, and people are recovering from that traditional family fest on Thanksgiving Day.

Parks create places for people to enjoy life

Many years ago, I chose to be a public servant. This career choice was easy.

Enjoy life while you're still capable

I am debating if I should watch the HBO special "The Alzheimer's Project." Executive Producer Maria Shriver's father has Alzheimer's disease. The program will look into one family's story of dealing with Alzheimer's and raise awareness of the disease.

Voters face tough choices this election

Change is in the air once again. Along comes spring and local elections.

November is time for traditions of reflection, thanks

November is finally here. I have always labeled November as "the season" -- the season to be thankful, the season of honoring family traditions and the season of reflection.

Olympics offers a reminder to grab those rings

Another summer season will soon be ending. Time does come and go quickly these days. How many times did you hear as a child that once you get older the time of your life moves quicker?

How to learn what's going on in government

Choosing my profession, 30 years ago, in government I clearly understood the role of a public servant. I was also certain that I would never be one of those government workers with the media knocking down my door for doing something illegal.

Make a lifelong commitment to healthy lifestyle

Thirteen days into the New Year, here's to a great and prosperous new year for you and your family.

Introducing 2 inspiring young people

As a career park and recreation professional I have met thousands of people -- many of which impressed me, but few of which inspired me. I am privileged to introduce two very special young people with this article. They both have uniquely inspired me.

Enjoy riding on the region's many bike trails

Once again we're at the midpoint of summer. It seems like after July 4 the days of summer just go by so fast.

Mothers still guide our daily lives

Technically, this is my first column as a member The Times Editorial Advisory Board, and I am very happy that it comes on Mother's Day. To all the mothers, may your day be bright, joyous and full of love today.