Birthdays and Anniversaries: A Reason to Celebrate

Yesterday was my birthday.  I turned 38, and had a chance to celebrate with my co-workers at NRCM.  As much as I like to think that my birthday is the highlight of the year, I am willing to concede that this week’s OTHER birthday celebration at my office is much more important.

On Thursday, June 25th, the Natural Resources Council of Maine turns the big 5-0!  50 years of protecting the natural beauty and environment of this wonderful state.  Now THAT is a reason to celebrate!

I have worked here for more than 13 years – and during just that small piece of NRCM’s 50-year history, my most vivid memory is seeing the first murky water flow freely past the site where the Edwards Dam stood for more than 100 years.  The 10th anniversary of THAT great event is next Wednesday.  I can’t believe that it was that long ago!  There was a great article in the Morning Sentinel recently, which described how the Kennebec River and its wildlife has flourished since that beautiful summer day in 1999. NRCM and its partners in the Kennebec Coalition had worked for more than a decade to reach this goal, and there was such excitement and celebration that day.  I think July 1, 1999 can be called the Kennebec’s “Rebirth-day.”

There are many reasons to celebrate https://www.nrcm.org/about-nrcm/timeline-of-nrcms-history/nrcm-50th-celebration/, and there’s much more to come.

Participants can earn “Brownie Points” that make them eligible for raffle prizes donated by Maine businesses, including a Manatee Deluxe Kayak Package gen protecting the nature of Maine.  And there are many people – our members, activists, staff, board, and other supporters – who I want thank for making it possible for us to continue to work hard for the next 50 years!  So, “Thank you” to everyone who has supported and continues to support NRCM and the important work of protecting this beautiful state and its citizens, visitors, and wildlife.

What are your memories of NRCM and its first 50 years?  Let us know!