More training, and other thoughts

I just took a walk over to our Emergency Operations Center to get a signature, and it's such a Washington-beautiful day outside--cool, cloudy, with the mist moving in and out of the trees on the top of Eagle Peak. There were two ravens down by the river who were screaming at each other, and I had one of those moments where I remember how great it is to be working in a National Park. I'm incredibly busy in the office at the moment, but it was a reminder of how important it is to get out of the office once in a while and enjoy the park that I'm working so hard to help protect. It reminded me again of this great (and slightly ribald) quote by Edward Abbey, one of my favorites.

Meanwhile, to news:

Here's the official Press Release announcing that our volunteer program has won the George B. Hartzog Jr. Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service. Congratulations again to all of you! I'll post pictures from the award ceremony hopefully Thursday evening.

A correction from John Chao: "FYI - I noticed the title of our photo workshop is being represented as "Digital Photography", whereas our actual title is "Improving Your Photography" - there will only be a very short portion dedicated to digital photography. We are NOT delving into digital photography processing." Knowing John's skills as a photographer, though, that will be outstanding enough! See the photo at right for another example of his great work...

An additional upcoming training: Search and Rescue. The ranger division is hosting an ALL PARK SAR Orientation on May 22nd in the Emergency Operations Center. Mike Gauthier writes, "The primary purpose is to orient anyone remotely interested in SAR operations on how SAR Management works at Mount Rainier, and what you can do to be involved and/or a member of the SAR team and program." If your volunteer duties involve potential involvement in search and rescue operations, contact me or Gator for further information.

Another training available to park staff: The park's EMT refresher will be held June 10-12 at the Community Building at Longmire. I'm sure we could squeeze in a few volunteers if you have need for such a refresher. If you do, let me know ASAP (by May 22nd at latest). Ranger Chris Trotter says "I don't want to have to set a limit on the class, so if I have a good idea on the numbers attending early I can better plan for gear/instructors/handouts/doughnuts etc."

And finally, another update on the effects of our stormy winter: Skate Creek Road, south of the park, will not open until at least June...