Jeff Packer: Thanks, Mary!

     In mid-November, State Parks Director Mary Tullius announced her retirement. I have known Mary for 18 years. I was a new State Parks Board member and she was the Public Affairs Officer for the Division when we became friends. Mary has demonstrated in each position, from public affairs to deputy director to director, of her love and devotion for the Utah State Park system, the employees and the customers. She has been dedicated to the mission of "Enhancing the Quality of life in Utah for the citizens, tourists, employees and the resources." She has been an active participant in growing the recreation, heritage (historical) and scenic resources during a variety of economic times. The most recent has been with historic cuts that have slashed into the very fiber and fabric of the state park system, to the point of threatening the park system that we know.

     Through diligent diplomacy and her complete understanding of this division she has fought valiantly to preserve it and keep parks open inspite of the meat cleaver approach to budget cutting that she was required to manage. I have known only two directors of state parks during these 18 years, Courtland Nelson and Mary.  Both brought incredible talents to the positions. Mary was tutored by Courtland and followed his example of leadership and dedication but using her unique style of leadership and management. I believe I speak for the majority of Utahns in thanking Mary for her dedicated service and wishing her our very best as she moves to retirement and the next phase of her life. One thing is certain, she will remain an influence for good in preserving the Utah State Park System.

I choose the French words "au revoir," to express my conclusion, meaning "until we meet again."  Thanks, Mary, from the bottom of my heart, and from the many others who know and love you!