CAMP HILL, PA — In the heart of the Keystone State, the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation (PPFF) has announced its plans for the 15th Annual Awards Banquet honoring those with exceptional contributions to Pennsylvania state parks and forests. The event, a much-anticipated date on the industry calendar, is scheduled for May 14, 2024, at the picturesque Little Buffalo State Park in Newport, Pennsylvania.
The banquet aims to shine a spotlight on the selfless efforts of individuals and programs toward the stewardship of Pennsylvania’s natural landscapes. This year, they will be honoring excellence across 10 diverse categories, a testament to the breadth and depth of contributions made towards preservation and sustainability efforts.
The anticipated evening promises not only a celebration of environmental dedication but also a gastronomic delight. Attendees can look forward to savoring farm-to-table cuisine prepared by a local caterer, with all ingredients sourced from nearby markets and orchards. The banquet invites an enthusiastic crowd, ready to revel in the spirit of community and appreciation.
Tickets for this prestigious event are available at $50 per person. In a move to encourage local businesses and industry stakeholders, the Foundation has also rolled out sponsorship opportunities for awards, tables, and different aspects of the banquet. For more information, to become a sponsor, or to register for the event, visit the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation website.
“We look forward to welcoming everyone once again for our annual awards banquet and to applaud the dedication of our award winners with preserving and promoting Pennsylvania’s natural and cultural treasures,” stated Marci Mowery, the President of PPFF.
Against the backdrop of the state’s natural scenic beauty, several noteworthy awardees will be handed the spotlight. The Pennsylvania Forestry Association, the oldest state organization in the U.S. focused on forest ecology, will receive the Cliff Jones Keystone Legacy Award for their unrivaled dedication to stewardship, education, and sustainability.
The Joe Ibberson Government Award will be presented to Wayne Kober, who has had an extensive 35-year career in the Department of Transportation. His work has been noteworthy for striking a balance between the increasing demands of transportation and preserving the environment.
Purple Lizard Maps, known for their detailed outdoor maps and commitment to conservation, will be receiving the President’s Award. Barbara Barksdale’s efforts to preserve, restore, and interpret African American historic cemeteries will be acknowledged with the Chair Award.
The PPFF will also be awarding titles to the Park of the Year, which is the heavily patronized Neshaminy State Park, and the Forest of the Year, the ecologically diverse William Penn Forest District. Recognition for effort in volunteerism, improvement, education, and special recognition for a young volunteers are also planned.
“By celebrating the extraordinary efforts of these tireless advocates for our parks and forests, we hope to inspire others to take up the cause and ensure these beautiful spaces remain protected and appreciated for generations to come,” Mowery added.
The Awards Banquet promises to be a beacon for the best in the industry, a celebration of the extraordinary, and a rallying call for the preservation and enjoyment of Pennsylvania’s natural assets. For more information or to become a part of this grand event, please visit PAParksAndForests.org.
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