Paula and Kent in the NEWS

Paula and Kent have returned from their "cross country" trip in their new van. I am sure there are lots of interesting stories and images ... Still waiting Paula!!!

In the mean time Paula and Kent where featured in the Virgin Island Newsletter Tidings
Below is the excerpt:

New and Not So New Volunteer Programs

This past winter season Friends of VI National Park launched the Volunteer Work Party, a new volunteer program that has the potential to be a real catalyst for change in the level of maintenance of our hiking trails and historic ruins in Virgin Islands National Park. Modeled after the volunteer program in Acadia National Park, volunteer Jeff Chabot spearheaded the program’s development and brings to us his knowledge and experience as a volunteer working in the Acadia program, and Denali National Park.

The program began late in the season, but in only seven Saturdays, the volunteer crew repaired and cut back vegetation and rebuilt stone stairs on the Lind Point Trail, cleared vegetation from the Caneel Hill ruins, and removed vegetation, uncovering the previously hidden enslaved peoples’ huts at Annaberg Plantation ruins. Tools for the program are supplied by Virgin Islands National Park and the Friends, so that participants can simply show up the morning of
the maintenance project with water and sturdy hiking shoes. The maintenance projects vary weekly, and Jeff provides instruction on proper vegetation removal and trail construction techniques. We plan to expand this program for next season offering the Volunteer Work
Party on Thursday mornings in addition to Saturdays. The program will resume late November.

The Annaberg Docent Program is a volunteer programwith a little more time under its belt. Begun five years ago by Paula and Kent Savel, the Docent program continues to offer visitors to Annaberg Plantation ruins with an unforgettable glimpse at the earlier days of the plantation and St. John. These devoted volunteer guides share the story of this historical site and VI National Park, while walking visitors through the process of producing rum and molasses. Three new docents joined the volunteer program this season, bringing with them some fresh perspectives and new energy. Docents are on site at Annaberg Monday thru Friday 10-2:00 December thru April.

Thank you to all the volunteers who donate their time, knowledge, and skills to help preserve and protect the resources of VI National Park and make it a better place to visit! For information about either one of these programs please contact the Friends at (340) 779-4940,or check out our Website