Can you imagine the look on the face of Gateway National Recreation Area Water Safety Coordinator Carl Martinez when he realized the man standing before him to be tested for a lifeguard position was 65 years old?

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore could accurately be described as an "urban" park. Its location on Lake Michigan is rimmed by Indiana towns and cities such as Gary, Hammond, Portage, Valparasio, and Michigan City. And, understandably, the residents of those communities have a vested interest in the lakeshore's future. That's where the National Park and Conservation Association's "National Park, Regional Treasure" program comes into play.

World War II history runs deep in the national parks of the Pacific. Much of that history is told at the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument, which includes Pearl Harbor. But you'll be able to learn more about the role that military bases in Hawaii played during the war by attending a special presentation later this month at Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site, also found on the island of Hawaii.

Visitors to the eastern edge of Grand Canyon National Park's South Rim can't help but notice the Desert View Watchtower, a landmark in the area for over seventy-five years. If you visit the area this year, you'll see considerable work taking place on the historic structure. What's going on?