I hope this winter has treated everyone well. Spring is here and I am looking forward to the warmer weather activities. This past year I have been so fortunate to be able to visit my daughter and grandson in Orono and walk the campus often. It still brings back such fond memories and I enjoy sharing memories and stories with my grandson. At age 1-2, he is happy to listen to my stories! Now on to stories of our classmates.
Congratulations to David Cota, who has become one of the oldest hikers to complete the Pacific Crest Trail. Fewer than 7,000 people have achieved this amazing goal of completing the entire arduous 2,650 miles. This trail runs from the Mexico border to British Columbia. Only 14 percent of those who start complete the entire journey. This trail passes through three states, 26 national forests, seven national parks, and five state parks. I am so impressed!
The Humanitarian Award of the US Equestrian Federation was awarded to Meris Bickford at its annual meeting this past January in honor of her efforts with the Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals (MSSPA). She joined this group in 2005 and has been involved in expanding the adoption process. Horses are rehabilitated, trained, or retrained as necessary to help them find new homes. These adopted horses are followed for life and may return to the shelter, if necessary. The MSSPA has also developed programs such as the Feed & Care Bank and the Maine Horse Matchmaker, to help Maine horses find new homes.
We have so many impressive graduates in our class modified by their goals and interests. I would love to hear from more of you. Please send your news to schweitzer53@yahoo.com.