For Immediate Release: April 25, 2005
Contact:
Keith P. McKeever | Public Relations | Adirondack Park Agency
contact@apa.ny.gov | (518) 891-4050
Ray Brook - Adirondack Park Agency celebrates Arbor Day 2005 by recognizing former volunteer coordinators - Breck and Barbara Chapin.
Each year the Adirondack Park Agency commemorates Arbor Day by planting a tree in celebration of the good work and accomplishments of people who have made significant contributions to the overall good of the Adirondack Park. This year the Agency will memorialize the contributions of Breck and Barbara Chapin.
The Chapins, long time Saranac Lake residents, were very instrumental in establishing the volunteer program at the Visitor Interpretive Centers. In 1989, Barbara planted the roots as the first Volunteer Services Coordinator. Breck succeeded his wife, who died in 1990, and during his tenure from 1990 to 1998, he nurtured the program into an important part of the VIC experience. Breck Chapin championed the idea of the Paul Smiths Native Species Butterfly house. During its debut season, from July 1 to Sept. 8, 1993, more than 24,000 people visited the attraction. The Butterfly House is operated by volunteers and VIC staff and funded by the Adirondack Park Institute.
Chairman Whaley said, “The quality of today’s volunteer programs at the Visitor Centers is a testament to the hard work and innovation of the Chapins. Their help instituting the initial programs was invaluable and enhanced the lives of so many.”
“Together, Breck and Barbara certainly left their mark on our volunteer program and the many successful programs and activities that our volunteers operate today”, stated Executive Director Daniel T. Fitts.
Barbara Chapin served as Director of the Saranac Lake Adult Center for fifteen years. She was a co-chairperson of the rejuvenation of the Winter Carnival in 1971 and received the 1980 Citizen of the Year awarded. Breck was a lifelong educator who retied in 1989 after more than 25 years of teaching and was principal at the Lake Clear and Bloomingdale schools. He was also a Councilman for the Town of Harrietstown.
The ceremony will take place at 2:00 on Friday, April 29, 2005, at the Adirondack Park Agency headquarters in Ray Brook. It is open to the Public.