In the “Elections Have Consequences” file goes this headline from the Northwest Herald and in the article under it:
Meanwhile the new Park Board President, Fred Tiesenga, provides his phone number in his first newsletter message to constituents.
Dear Park District Neighbor,
I can remember no other elected official doing so in the almost sixty years I have followed politics in McHenry County.
As I begin my term serving as your Crystal Lake Park District President, I look forward to representing each of you and your families.
Our volunteer Board of Commissioners and paid staff have a duty to make the Park District work for you in return for the taxes you pay based on the assessed asset value of your homes.
You are at the top of our organization chart.
Our mission is “Enriching all lives through Recreation, Parks and Nature.”
We engage this mission in three ways.
First, Recreation is more important than ever in our culture of sedentary, synthetic living, with real life subordinated to screen depictions of electronic artifacts. According to Notre Dame professor Clark Power, this is ruining our kids, who–30 years ago–used to enjoy three hours of unstructured play each day—but now that’s down to just one hour. We face a choice between the resulting dullness, obesity and other chronic health conditions, or an active lifestyle with more recreation. As a practicing physician, I’m pushing recreation for more fun and better health.
Second, our Parks are places where we gather for the freedom of play, to escape the grind of ordinary life, and to connect with others in games with their own spontaneity free of material interest. Sociologists tell us that “play brings about a beatific reiteration of childhood. When adults play with genuine joy, they momentarily regain the deathlessness of childhood.” (Peter Berger, A Rumor of Angels, 1969). So it’s not just for kids, but for all of us to get out and play.
Third, Nature provides a setting of variation and surprise, which our brains need to release creativity and keep imagination flowing. We have over 1,000 acres of nature for you to do this trails, in parks, at picnic shelters and sandy beaches. Cultivate these natural landscapes with your presence.
Call me directly if you have any suggestions or questions.
My cell is (708) 945-FRED (3733).
Let’s have a Great Summer!
Sincerely,
Frederick M. Tiesenga, M.D. FACS.,MBS FPD.
Crystal Lake Park District President
For information about the Park Board meeting the Northwest Herald writes about a week after the meeting, click below on my June 22nd article:
