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January 7, 1997
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)

The following is being distributed at the request of Newfoundland and Labrador Parks/Recreation Association:

Springdale's Greg Hiller, President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Parks and Recreation Association, cites 1996 as a "good year" for the association.

Hiller made the remark as part of his "End of the Year" statement.

"It was the organization's 25th anniversary year and while we were unable to accomplish everything we planned, we were able to continue to service our members and to fill the vast majority of their requests," Hiller pointed out.

Referring to the past 12 months as "a time when the vast majority of people as well as organizations were forced to review their position, their plans and their focus", he reported that the Parks and Recreation Association was "able to react well and in a positive manner to the cutbacks it had to accept."

"The manner in which the membership and those of us who are responsible for the day-to-day operation of the association responded to financial and other reductions demonstrated the purpose for which the association was established."

Hiller spoke of the "valuable contributions made by a very large number of association members to the betterment of life within the province" as he stressed the need for "maintaining the highest level possible of a healthy and active lifestyle."

"Some aspects of the association were curtailed but overall it lived up to its mandate and fulfilled the variety of reasons it was established. We are very proud of the way a somewhat difficult year was handled by all of those who are part of the association."

He thanked "all of those who assisted the association in its efforts during 1996. This assistance is very important and very much appreciated."

Hiller spoke in extremely optimistic terms about 1997. "A very large percentage of the association membership will have a hands-on involvement with the Cabot 500th Anniversary and for the most part will bring beneficial activities to their communities and areas of the province."

"We are all looking forward to the August annual meeting of the National Parks and Recreation Association in St. John's and fully expect it to be the best ever nationally. It will be a good year."

Contact: Gary Milley, (709) 729-3892.