News of note
Another voice for the outdoors was stilled last week with the passing of retired forester John Konkle. John worked in Harrisburg and in the Elk, Moshannon, and Tiadaghton State Forests beginning in the summers of his teen years. A friend related that he was nicknamed "Polar Bear" because in bitter cold weather "he didn't wear much."
It's characters like those we particularly hate to lose!
On Tuesday evening, board member Mary Soderberg and PPFF's Marci and Amanda were hand to receive the Governor's Award for Environmental Excellence for the statewide "Graffiti: No Place in Nature" campaign. The award was proudly accepted on behalf of the hundreds of determined volunteers who gave countless hours to the project (which goes on) and the support of our donors and members.
Also on Tuesday evening, the Friends of Rothrock elected their first board on Tuesday night and adopted a mission statement that speaks to their intentions: "The Friends of Rothrock promote and support responsible public access to, education about, and enjoyment and stewardship of Rothrock State Forest for current and future generations." If you would like to become a Friend of Rothrock, let me know and I'll get you in touch with Chair Dan Trew (pending establishment of their website and other accessible links.)
You have one last weekend to see the Photo Gallery Showcase of Winners at Shawnee State Park - I'll be there on Tuesday to pack up the photographs and take them to PPFF Central for our banquet. Look for them thereafter at the Columbia Crossing River Trails Center in Columbia beginning with an opening night reception on May 29.
You also have one last chance to register for this year's awards banquet. We'll be shutting down the registration link on Monday so make your plans now to join us at The Susquehanna Club to formally thank all those wonderful volunteers and dedicated staff who make your parks and forests sparkle.
Register Now - Walk May 19!