I am not a senior — yet, but I am at the age where I pay close attention to those around me who are. Those I know do not fit the mold ascribed to them by the media. Most of the seniors I know are still content with working. Retirement doesn’t seem to enter the conversation, but even for those who have retired, things for this growing population of aging adults are different. The idiom “golden years,” an expression of endearment, may have a more literal meaning today, at least from the perspective of finances.

Travel, marathons and yoga are part of today’s senior dialogue. My 74-year-old neighbor spends her summers in Florence on a quest to master Italian. My father-in-law, who is pushing 85, walks several miles to and from the library every day, and my own father, an avid golfer at 89, is still searching for the perfect golf swing when he isn’t pounding away on his Mac in an attempt to complete his latest science-fiction novel. 

Is it time for us as a society to redefine the image of our senior citizens? In this month’s cover story on page 36, Professor John Crompton of Texas A&M University explores the quickly changing culture of active adults in the U.S. and even dares to ask the question: Should park agencies continue to allow senior discounts? Whether you agree with Crompton’s points or not, it is clear that this cultural transformation is worth the debate. After you’ve read the article, reach out to us and let us know your thoughts on how this subject plays out at your agency.

Additionally, another Congress has come and gone, but you can look back on what happened in the Congress wrap-up section featured in this issue, starting on page 42. A second look at the Opening General Session, highlights from NRPA’s education sessions and the show floor, plus a recap of the good work done through the Parks Build Community initiative at Shady Lane Park in Houston can all be found in this section.

If you haven’t already heard, starting on December 2, past online issues of Parks & Recreation Magazine will be available exclusively to our members. As always, access is easy. Simply access the archives section of the magazine website for great stories, special reports, case studies and more.

Finally, the holiday season is here, and the NRPA staff wishes you, our members and readers, a joyous season and wishes for a bright and happy year.

Gina Mullins-Cohen is NRPA's Vice President of Marketing, Communications and Publishing.