Duncannon A.T. Community Advisory Committee

Next DATC Advisory Committee Meeting is March 7th

2012-03-04T15:49:00.001-08:00

The DATC Advisory Committee will be holding two March meetings - the first on Wednesday, March 7th and the second on Monday, March 26th. Both will be held at 6:30pm at the Borough Office. The agenda for March 7th will include updates on Borough Council approval, premiere sponsor donation, reading of Advisory Committee By-Laws, and ordering T-shirts.

Graphics Committee meeting minutes - Brochures, mural & photography updates

2012-03-03T05:55:00.003-08:00

Lots of great brainstorming and planning at the Graphics Committee meeting this past Tuesday. We were especially excited to see two Susquenita High School art students looking to get involved with awesome ideas! Also excited to report that Appalachian Trail Conservancy's new Executive Director, Mark Wenger, will very likely be in attendance at June 2nd's designation event.

Minutes Graphics Meeting 2/28/12

Attendance: Mary Parry, Paul Smith, Susan Norris, Annie Leiby, Kim McKee, Sean O’Shell, Ariana Troni, Sakara Hancock

Mary reported on Graphic Tasks Review

1. Pre-Event Brochure created by Chairperson Susan Norris. Some additions made by Mary. Further changes made to meet Borough Council requirements. Waiting on approval of changes by Borough Council to go to print.

2. Hike Scavenger hunt cards created by Susan ready to go to print.

3. Waiting for completion of river trip scavenger hunt cards by Susan Norris.

4. Mary has designed Event Program and is punching in information as she receives it.

5. Target date to paint business windows in Duncannon is May 12. Brandon Gallagher and Karen Reckert originally interested. New committee members Ariana and Sakara, students at Susquenita High School want to participate and willing to recruit more volunteers. Mary also sent invitations to get involved to many other art teachers and principals of schools in surrounding communities but has heard nothing.

6. Mary had one initial conversation with Joel Deaven concerning the directional signs.

Mural Discussion

1. Mural Design - Mary described potential map mural embellished with outdoors’ embellishments. Carol Boyd is the supervisor for this project. They have met to look at location and have had several discussions concerning this project. She is to provide cost estimate. Mary showed map draft design. The following suggestions were made:

a. Magnifying glass on Duncannon since it is enlarged compared to rest of map.

b. Show State Game Lands, etc.

c. Show compass.

d. Show “you are here” star.

e. Embellish with state bird, state flower, etc.

f. Borough and/or Perry County Flag. Annie can provide image of Perry County Flag.

2. Kickstarter - Kim McKee explained fundraiser for mural. It is an online program set up to solicit donations. We set goal and timeframe. If we reach goal we get donations, if we don’t reach goal we get nothing. Following the format of the webpage we need script explaining project, video to promote project, and Awards for various increments of donation. All of these tasks need done quickly so enough time is allowed for the mural.

a. Sean O’Shell has created a page for committee members to upload pics or videos for use in the video promoting the mural. By March 7 go to http://trailvistas.com/datc-graphics-file-upload/ UserName: datcgraphics
PassWord: graphicsdatc
Please log out as soon as you are finished uploading or downloading your files so other members can use this resource. Only one person can be logged in at any time.

b. Sean O’Shell and Sakara Hancock – by March 14 - Submit video to Mary "Trailangelmary" Parry. Schedule a time and date to meet to choose/edit/approve video. Included in the meeting will be Mary, Susan Norris, Sean O’Shell, and Sakara Hancock.

c. Kim McKee has written script that will be on page. She and/or Sean O’Shell will design page once provided with all the pieces by March 19.

d. Ideas for video

· Hawk Rock

· Location of mural

· Present mural

· Doyle Hotel

· Examples of artwork to be on mural

· Artist’s sketch of mural

· Traiangelmary at beginning

· Trailangelmary voice of audio

· Earl Shaffer at Clark’s Ferry Bridge

· Scotty Brown sketch of town square

e. Awards for Kickstarter donations

· Up to $10 – Recognition on Event Web Page

· $11 to $20 – TTEC Postcard

· $21 to $30 – set of 4 TTEC Postcard

· $31 to $50 – premiere event t-shirt

· $51 to $99 – name on mural

· $100 and up – name on mural and premiere event t-shirt

Photo Booth – Annie has developed an idea to raise additional $’s for the Advisory Committee the day of the event. Attendees can get their picture taken with Smokey the Bear in the photo booth which will have a background of trees and an A.T. Trailhead sign at a cost of $5.00. They will also be able to go to Annie’s page to order a print after the event. Annie will proceed with project. She plans on asking Brandon Gallagher to create backdrop. Mary needs description from Annie ASAP for event program.

Annie requested a photographers’ meeting in April. Photographers committed to date – Tina Mumma, Annie Leiby, Annie’s son (name?), Steve Fehr, Diane Peresic, Helen Ernest, Zach Druckenmiller

Susan Norris asked when she will receive Event Central Panels. Mark Lukens - April 1 - Finish Event Central Panels and provide to Susan Norris, Graphics Chair.

Next Graphics Committee Meeting - Early April - Agenda - Photographers, Window decorations crew. Window decorations crew will be asked to bring sketches of things having to do with outdoors that they would like to paint on windows.

Ariana and Sakara are willing to volunteer at Event Central day of event (June 2). They will also recruit more volunteers from the high school. If Mary has enough volunteers committed to man already planned stations at event central she will entertain further ideas of Ariana and Sakara. Stations that need manned from 11 am to 3:00 pm are:

1. Welcome, obtain contact information, distribute event program.

2. Sell popcorn

3. Sell t-shirts and hats

4. Apply ATC temporary tattoos and make and distribute Bubble blowers

5. Sell raffle tickets

6. Bandana Decorations – Girl Scouts

Respectfully submitted by Mary “Trailangelmary” Parry, Lead Volunteer and DATC Advisory Committee Coordinator, 2 Ann St, Duncannon, 717-834-4706, trailangelmary@gmail.com

Duncannon A.T. Ambassador in the News and Feb. Meeting Minutes

2012-02-26T08:45:00.002-08:00

Source: PennLive.com

Duncannon A.T. Community Ambassador, Paul Smith, was featured in the Perry County Times and Duncannon Record over the weekend. Check out the article here: Duncannon man is trail ambassador. Paul has been a dedicated volunteer with the Duncannon Appalachian Trail Community Committee since July 2011 and in the fall was appointed as A.T. Ambassador and chair of Music & Arts for the upcoming designation event.

“I am excited to have this opportunity to be active in the community,” said Smith. “There are already so many positive ideas and projects coming to the surface since Duncannon was chosen as an Appalachian Trail Community.”

DATC Advisory Committee, February Meeting Minutes

ATTENDEES:

Mary “trailangelmary” Parry, Event Coordinator, Parks & Rec Board
Paul Smith, Arts & Music Chair, A.T. Ambassador
Kim McKee, Publicity Chair and ATC Advisor
Annie Lieby, Photographer
Charlie Johnson, Susquehanna Rovers
Deb Takach, Storyteller, Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club (SATC)
Luke Johnson, Susquenita High School Student
Malissa Hoover, Susquenita Elem. School Teacher, TTEC
Maryann Landis, Penn Township resident
Matt Smith, Perry County Chamber of Commerce
Mike O’Connor, Mountain Club of Maryland
Pat Woods, Susquenita Middle School Principal, TTEC
Paul Marth, Susquenita Middle School Teacher, TTEC
Rick Knepp, Susquenita Middle School Teacher, TTEC
Rob Shaw, SATC/Cumberland Valley Appalachian Trail Club
Jerry Bell, Borough Council, Parks & Rec Board
Fred Lauster, Borough Council, Parks & Rec Board

PRE-MEETING NOTES

o DATC MURAL MEETING – Mary and Kim met with Perry County Council of the Arts Director, Roger Smith, to discuss possible mural funding sources. Carol Boyd has agreed to head up the mural project. Mary and Kim will follow up on the PCCA ideas.

o FINANCES - $1,000 donation has been received from an anonymous foundation

MEETING MINUTES

DATC BY-LAWS – Mary distributed copies of the draft DATC bylaws and committee members reviewed. Paul Marth recommended that a change to the bylaws require two meetings instead of one – one for a reading, one for a vote. It was agreed that a vote on the By-laws/Officers should take place at a separate meeting than the review of the document with notice by email at least two weeks prior to vote.

o Other Comments:

· More Officers/Directors – Fred suggests 9 directors, 4 of which can be officers.
· Fred Lauster recommended the Mission be as broad as we can make it. Several members stated mission should be vague and short. Therefore reduce the number of sentences in the mission to a maximum of two and remove activities and put them into a strategic plan to be developed later (after the event).

Suggested Language:

1. Our objective is to encourage all to go to the outdoors to enjoy nature and to recognize the connection between the health and abundance of our area’s natural assets and the vitality of our communities. To educate the community concerning our rich history of our area and the AT and to encourage conservation planning.

2. Suggested language from Paul Marth: To bring the historical, cultural and environmental richness of the AT and surrounding areas to the lives and livelihood of the residents of the area.

Matt Smith recommended a higher number for a quorum – one person over half the number of regularly attending members. Another suggestion is to define a quorum as three officers and six members.
Recommendation – Three names on bank account with two signatures required on checks.
Mike O’Connor suggested “keeping minutes” to be added to the duty of the Secretary to clarify “keeping records”
Suggestion that financial report be given at every meeting. Quorum vote at meeting to approve spending. Any expenses outside board approved budget should be approved at a meeting.

Pre-Event Brochure - Members submitted their suggested edits for the brochure. Mary will review.

Commitment Forms - Rob Shaw turned in SATC's form. Details of the SATC hike(s) are still T.B.D.

o Post card art contest – The TTEC/Art teachers will narrow the pool of submissions before bringing to the Committee in April. DATC Advisory Committee will vote on 4 winners, one from each grade. Perry County Chamber of Commerce has agreed to fund the printing.

o Review of meeting with Fire Company – Mary stated that a preliminary conversation and potential venue walk has taken place with Duncannon Fire Company and Fire Police. They are very receptive to working with us on this event. Their BBQ sales have been down and this event should help those sales.

o Premier Sponsor – Matt Smith should have an answer by February 15^th.

o Street Banners – Budweiser has agreed to sponsor street banners.

o MCM Miles Fund Grant – Mary has submitted an application for a Miles Fund Grant to help with printing costs. Mike O’Connor will check if we will get response in February or March.

o TTEC Quest – Paul Marth reported that the teacher working on the Quest will not likely have it ready to start in conjunction with our event.

o Pre-event fliers – Fliers were passed around to Committee members for posting on Bulletin Boards in public places around greater Duncannon/Harrisburg. The format is a tear off slip with the event web page address and Mary’s contact info.

If any items are missing from these minutes please inform Mary Parry at trailangelmary@gmail.com.

NEXT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING – consideration to change to Tuesday next month. Members will be notified by email.

Duncannon's Buddy Boy Winery is stop on Susquehanna Heartland Wine Trail

2012-02-20T16:43:00.001-08:00

Source: Pennlive.com

The historic transportation hub of Duncannon just became an added stop on a PA Trail that celebrates working the land and producing local wine! Thus far this year, two new wineries have been added to the Susquehanna Heartland Wine Trail - Armstrong Valley Winery across the river in Halifax and Buddy Boy Winery in Duncannon. Buddy Boy Winery just opened this past November 2011 and is located just off Rt 11/15 at 111 Barnett Drive.

For more info on an upcoming Wine Trail happenings check out this article from The Patriot News over the weekend: Susquehanna Heartland Trail readying for March event. To stay tuned to Buddy Boy Winery & Vineyard updates, check out their facebook page. Sounds like an awesome place to stop after a nice hike up Cove Mountain!

Entertainers for Trail Celebration Listed / Duncannon Record

2012-02-17T16:35:00.000-08:00

By Sarah Kramer, Staff Writer

Randy "Windtalker" Motz

February 9 -- The Duncannon Appalachian Trail Committee has compiled a list of performers who will entertain for a June 2 celebration commemorating Duncannon's becoming a member of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.

The celebration will begin with several hikes, as well as kayaking and canoeing and an afternoon of food, vendors and live music.

Event coordinator Mary Parry said Mark Lukens and Antonio Andrade, Brian "Nimble" McPherson and Morgan "Folksinger" Evans will be performing.

Randy "Windtalker" Motz, a 2006 Appalachian Trail thru-hiker, will present his unique style of contemporary Native American flute music, which he calls "Native Soundscapes." Motz has played at festivals, coffee houses, wineries, schools, churches, private parties and other venues.

Newport local David Snyder will bring his band, The Disturbinators, to the celebration to play passionate blues music. The group calls their music "not for the faint of heart or potatoes of the couch variety," noting the band's loud, rhythmic sound is sure to get anyone moving.

For more information about the vent or performers, readers may contact Parry at 834-4706 or trailangelmary@gmail.com.

Historical Crossroads and friend of the Appalachian Trail

2012-02-14T11:27:00.000-08:00

American Municipal Power recently put the spotlight on Borough of Duncannon on the Members section of its web site and the Borough's A.T. Community designation is highlighted! The Borough of Duncannon is unique for a community its size in that it provides electric, water, sewer and refuse service to borough residents. From the web site:

Earning recognition for Appalachian Trail contributions

On June 2, 2012, Duncannon, one of only a handful of small towns through which the Appalachian Trail directly passes, is hosting a festival celebrating its designation as an official Appalachian Trail Community™ by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. The Appalachian Trail Community™ program, according to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, “is designed to recognize communities that promote and protect the Appalachian Trail (A.T.).”

Duncannon lies at the midpoint of the Appalachian Trail, which runs 2,180 miles from Georgia to Maine. In Duncannon, the trail passes along Market Street, the borough’s main street, which, coincidentally, is the street on which the legendary Doyle Hotel sits. The hotel has long been a popular stopping place for hikers who appreciate its good food and hospitality.

Duncannon is also a noteworthy historic stop on the 95-mile Middle Susquehanna Greenway tour, which introduces travelers to the historic and geographic connections between the river and Chesapeake Bay, into which it empties. In addition, the borough is one of the hub communities on the Pittsburg to Harrisburg Main Line Canal Greenway. That greenway is a 320-mile network of linked land and water trails that provide travelers with opportunities to hike, bike, study nature and learn more about history.

Looking ahead, the borough is working to revitalize downtown Duncannon. It hopes to bring in more small business that could be supported by daily commuters passing through town, as well as the growing number of tourists and hikers visiting Duncannon for the area’s history and natural beauty.

Norfolk-Southern Enola Yard volunteers sign on to help improve River Arches

2012-02-07T12:50:00.000-08:00

Norfolk-Southern Enola Diesel Shop Senior Foreman, Archie Glace, has coordinated with DATC and signed on his employee volunteer team to come to Duncannon on Saturday, May 12th, and make improvements for access to the river through the archways at Ann St. and Margretta St.

The project will likely entail scraping sediment that has built up over the years, digging a drainage trench for stormwater run-off and clearing brush to the drainage swales at the base of the tracks. This will serve to improve pedestrian and boating access to river from the downtown areas for residents and folks coming into town for a paddle. Blue Mountain Outfitters in Marysville also often uses these arches to put-in river trips.

PA-225 Parking Lot

Last year the NSCorp Enola team coordinated with Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club and did awesome work making improvements to the parking lot and trail-head at PA-225 on Peters Mountain. As you can see from the recent photo at left, it gets heavy use! We thank them for their efforts to support the A.T. and the A.T. Community initiative in Duncannon.

NS Corp will also have a table at the June 2nd event in addition to various other informational and retail vendors posted on the Event page. "Before" photos of the Ann St. arch posted below. "After" photos to come in May!

Event Commitments still pouring in - Stay tuned for Music Schedule

2012-02-03T16:06:00.000-08:00

Photos by Steve Fehr, see more photos on Duncannon Views blog

With the designation event less than four months away, event organizer Trailangel Mary reports that participation commitments keep on coming! New commitments include:

Thru-hikers Michael "G-Hippie" Muzzillo and James "Turtle" Robertson joining the thru-hiker panel. Turtle sat in on an A.T. Community meeting during his Southbound hike in September!
Hike leader, Nancy "Slim" Robinson (Two-time A.T. Thru-Hiker) - PA-225 Parking Lot to Peter's Mountain Shelter and back (easy, limit 20 hikers, register with Nancy, contact info to be posted)
Information vendors: Mountain Club of Maryland, Ray Sterner - 3D Maps, Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, Volksmarch Susquehanna Rovers, PNC Bank, Susquehanna River Trail Association, Perry County Council of the Arts
Retail vendors: Libby Goodheart (My Wife's Barn), Randy "Windtalker" Motz, Georgia "Mom" Harris (Qualtech Resource Group, Inc.), Ginny Rech (T.H.G. Studio)

Others have committed to donate items for raffle and door prizes. Also exciting is the participation of Steve "Sedentary Steve" Fehr as an event photographer. Have you ever seen his Duncannon photo blog, Duncannon Views? Check it out at this link. Also have a look at his Tales of the Trail hiker interviews.

For the full June 2nd line-up check out the EVENT page.

Next DATC Advisory Committee on Thursday, Feb 9th at 6:30pm

2012-01-30T19:01:00.000-08:00

Two modes of transport, heading into Duncannon

Join the Duncannon Appalachian Trail Community Advisory Committee next Thursday at 6:30pm at the Borough Office in Duncannon (428 N. High St.) for the monthly meeting. Only a little over four months to go until the June 2nd designation event!

In addition to progress with designation event planning event coordinator Trailangel Mary will have updates for on Thursday, a Norfolk Southern Corp. Enola Yard employee volunteer day has been tentatively scheduled for May 12th. The planned project entails clean-up and improvements to the Ann St. and Margretta St. river arches to provide residents, visitors and paddlers with enhanced river access points.

Interesting read about another post-industrial community located in rural Western Massachusetts on the Connecticut River: Turners Falls turns on the charm to lure small businesses, tourism and the art.

The Strathmore Mill, power canal & bike path at Turners Falls

"With only one paper mill now left, Montague residents and officials have worked to shift the village’s raison d’etre from one of big industry to one of small businesses, tourism, the arts and culture. “It’s been a long process. It didn’t happen over night,” says the town administrator."

"Another plus for the village is its bike path that draws cyclists, joggers and walkers to the banks of the river and the canal. 'We’ve always had a river that is beautiful. We’ve always had architecture that is beautiful,” Abbondanzio said of Turners Falls. “We’re trying to capitalize on those assets and make it a place people would want to come to.'"

Former Miller's News Stand building for sale

2012-01-23T12:04:00.000-08:00

Miller's News Stand and the Dry cleaners next door have closed their doors. It is located at 1 N. Market St.on Duncannon Square, just few doors down from the Doyle Hotel.

The historic building with a storefront facing Market St. could serve as a great location for a potential new business serving both local residents and visitors who come to Duncannon to hike, paddle, take in scenic views of the rivers & ridges or look for antiques and vintage finds at Old Sledworks. Opportunities could include an outdoor outfitter, bike shop, coffee house, sandwich shop, artisan gallery, brewpub, bait shop, live music venue, a Duncannon area visitors center, etc. Interested parties should call 717-834-3848.

Look for sample local reports on trail-related business opportunities along the Great Allegheny Passage at TrailTowns.org (Ohiopyle and Confluence, for example).

Click here for the Whiteblaze.net (online community of A.T. enthusiasts) comment thread about this opportunity.

The side of this building facing Cumberland St. was also the planned location for a community mural showcasing an artistic map of local trails and natural features in the greater Duncannon area. Contact Trailangel Mary if interested in helping out with the mural project.

Email Update

2012-01-19T05:47:00.000-08:00

FYI for the Committee and event participants: event coordinator Mary Parry's new email address is trailangelmary@gmail.com. Please add the new email to your address book so emails from her are not considered spam.

Also for your calendars, the next DATC meeting will be held Thursday, Feb. 9th at 6:30pm at the Borough Office.

Jan. 12th DATC Meeting Minutes

2012-01-16T19:30:00.000-08:00

Attendees:

Mary Parry, Event Coordinator
Paul Smith, Arts & Musical Entertainment Chair, A.T. Community Ambassador

Malissa Hoover, Susquenita Elementary Teacher, TTEC Chair
Fred Lauster, Borough Councilman and Logistics Chair
Jack Conrad, Parks & Recreation Board
Kim McKee, ATC Advisor
Rick Knepp, Susquenita Middle School Teacher
Jason Finnerty, Tri-County Regional Planning, Perry County Planner
Luke Johnson, Susquenita High School Student
Melanie Wertz, Cumberland Valley Appalachian Trail Club (CVATC)
Rob Shaw, CVATC and Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club
Bob Peiffer, Perry County Chamber of Commerce
Dave Snyder, Appalachian Music Conservancy and Perry Co. Council of the Arts
Matt Smith, Perry County Chamber of Commerce
Sean O’Shell, Perry County Resident
Mike O’Connor, Mountain Club of Maryland
Debra Takach, Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club

Minutes:

Recaps: Mary gave recaps of the November meeting, Graphics and Budget Subcommittee meetings from December and the January updates covered in the update document.

Trail to Every Classroom Update – Malissa Hoover

Malissa has received approval from the Elementary School for students to design a thank you card to distribute to event volunteers. Winners will be chosen by March. A request has been submitted to screen the National Geographic film American’s Wild Spaces: Appalachian Trail. Approval is pending. First choice for site to show film is Cooper Field in Duncannon given we can acquire use of a projector. Update from Pat Woods, Middle School Principal – they may not have an appropriate space for a film screening in case of rain. Therefore, another site is needed in case of rain.

TTEC Quests are being created by the Social Studies Department at the Middle School. Plan is to premier on day of celebration. Mary would like more details as soon as possible.

Apple Tree Alley Update – Jack Conrad

He’s had a series of meetings with Mike Piaskowski of PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources including a site visit with DCNR, ATC and SEDA-COG reps and he feels there is a good plan in place to move forward with implementation.

The first phase is planned for a stretch adjacent to 3Bs Ice Cream, Old Sledworks and Clark’s Ferry Tavern, a historic structure that has received significant attention in recent months from parties interested in a restoration. The first phase could facilitate plans to turn the adjacent green space next to Clark’s Ferry Tavern into park/community gathering place and include improvements stretching to river via the Margareta St. arch. The Borough submitted a grant to the PA Parks & Recreation Society to complete some engineering work in advance of construction.

Mary inquired into how the Committee can support the project and while right now it makes sense to hold off publicizing the project until the Borough receives word on the PRPS application, support may be needed at Borough Council meetings in the future. Future Apple Tree Alley meetings appropriate for attendance by any interested Advisory Committee members will be announced. With Mary’s suggestion Jack agreed to a vendor table at the event with information and visuals about the project. Some volunteers may be needed to man the table.

Mary reminded all that our Advisory Committee is not just about our designation event. Participation in the progress of Apple Tree Alley is also very important.

Event Commitments

Committed organizations, groups and individuals will be updated regularly on the “Event” tab. More specific questions and updates:

Current questions pertain to confirmation of participation from the Susquenita Middle and High School bands. Bob Peiffer indicated the High School band may have a conflict. He will provide contact information to Music and Arts Chair Paul Smith and assist in follow-up. Mary stted the importance of consistent communication.

Hiking trips – Mary would like to see more hike leaders willing to lead hikes targeting more inexperienced hikers to reinforce our theme of “Saving Our Community from Nature Deficit Disorder”. She also stated she is recruiting hike sweepers from the AT Hiking Family.

Mary will be attending meetings with Duncannon Council of Churches, Duncannon Fire Company Board, and Lions Club this month to discuss involvement. Fred Lauster stated that for National Night Out Fire Trucks were moved to another location except for the ladder truck which Fire Company members used as part of the event.

Insurance

Since the meeting, Mary is following up with committee members and hike leaders to obtain relevant information to submit to Fred Lauster. As of this meeting the following is in place concerning liability:

Waiver developed to protect all involved.
Plan is in place to schedule Hike Leader Training by Karen Balaban, SATC.
Hikes on Appalachian Trail and official Blue Blazes will be covered by NPS policy. Contract with NPS is ready to distribute to hike leaders.
River trips are insured by BMO policy.
Coverage for afternoon events in the borough are being researched by Fred Lauster, Duncannon Borough Council member with the borough solicitor and borough insurance company to be included on their policy as an event in 2012.

Event Location Vote

Two locations were proposed for the events of June 2^nd: a downtown location centered on Cumberland and High St. and Cooper Field (Duncannon Community Park). Pros and cons were presented by Mary and Fred and discussion ensued. The Committee voted and 10 attendees voted for downtown (with four absentee votes from business owners that could not attend) and 1 voted for Cooper Field. 4 attendees abstained.

Mary will be attending a Fire Company Board Meeting this month where she will present the plan to the Board and seek advice for shutting down Cumberland Street for a certain amount of time on that day. The Little League Ball field and Fortenbaugh’s lot would be alternate locations.

Since parking space in downtown Duncannon is scarce, a parking and shuttle plan will be developed between area Churches and shuttle volunteers. It was suggested to inquire with Rohrer Bus as potential shuttle use.

Retail vendors will be given parking spaces close to their set-up. Potential parking locations include Mutzabaugh’s, church parking lots, and nearby trail heads.

Jason Finnerty mentioned it may be a good idea to contact PennDOT as they sometimes put flashing lights in advance of areas where traffic should be slowed for community events. Mary will also check if Duncannon Borough owns the yellow crossing alert signs to place on street.

Event Central
Mary is looking for volunteers to man “Event Central” where the Committee will house all event information and be there to direct people and answer questions. Event Central will also sell event t-shirts and Duncannon hats, raffle tickets, bandana personalization, popcorn selling, potential photo booth, free water, and bubble cups. 48 man hours are needed from volunteers (48 volunteers giving one hour or much fewer volunteers taking longer shifts).

Mural
The plan for a community mural (map of trails in area with outdoor embellishments) is currently in the works – Mary is re-routing the plan as the side of Miller’s Newstand may no longer be an option. Jack Conrad suggested the Embarq building at Ann & High Sts. She’s received word that Sunoco commonly funds community murals and will be looking into the possibility. Kim McKee provided a potential grant application from National Endowment for the Arts. Any mural expert contacts would be greatly appreciated for this project.

NS Corp Enola Yard Volunteer Day
A site visit is planned with the NS Corp rep for Tuesday, Jan. 24^th at 2:30 at Doyle Hotel to check the River Arches, The Doyle porch and railing, as well as a potential wall for a mural to determine a project they can take on that is both manageable for their team and will have the most impact in the Downtown in advance of the event.

Budget Update and Tax-deduction Eligibility Discussion
A request from a premier sponsor has been put in for $3,408, a figure taken from the most recent budget. The timeline for an expected response is roughly three weeks, potentially sooner. Matt Smith raised the question of ensuring tax deductible donations. As of now we are a non-profit organization awaiting 501c3 status.

A plan is in progress to deposit and distribute the funds via the Recreation Board account. Robert Peiffer stated that the bank can establish a secondary account number within the Recreation Board account to deposit DATC funds. Paul Smith stated that we need a conclusion ASAP as he has groups ready to donate.

Budget Review
Mary reviewed the budget with special attention to line items not included in budget and potential line items that can be changed to in-kind donations to reduce cost.

Porta-Pottys – Some voiced concern that 2 porta-pottys may not be enough. Suggestion was made by Jack Conrad and Dave Snyder to contact New Bloomfield Company (?name?).

Printing - Rob Shaw requested files of documents to be printed for quotes.

Mike O’Connor informed Mary that a potential grant is available and provided her with the information.

Small Games of Chance License – Mary asked Matt Smith if he or Bob have an answer to the possibility of using PCCC license. Matt will check. Linda Britcher is also checking if we can use The Pub Ball teams’ license.

Jack Conrad suggested hosting a bus trip to raise funds. Susquehanna Greenway Tour??

Food
Mary will inquire if the Fire Company is willing to expand their Chicken BBQ to longer hours and if they can add hot dogs and hamburgers.

Matt Smith and Bob Peiffer will check if PCCC is still willing to prepare and sell hot dogs, hamburgers and/or pork dinners and if the Advisory Committee will need to provide funds before the event.

Committee Administration
Mary stated the importance of reading emails. So please watch for emails from trailangelmary with the title line beginning with DATC. She also reviewed the importance of keeping the google document LOG VOLUNTEER HOURS up to date.

If any items are missing from these minutes please inform Mary Parry at trailangelmary@gmail.com.

NEXT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING – THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 6:30 PM

Appalachian Trail Conservancy Selects Community Ambassadors For Pennsylvania

2012-01-15T10:39:00.000-08:00

Trailhead near PA-11/15, Photo by Paul Zeph

Last month we reported that Duncannon A.T. Community Advisory Committee member and Arts & Entertainment Chair, Paul Smith, was appointed A.T. Community Ambassador for Duncannon. ATC just released the following announcement. Minutes from last Thursdays monthly meeting to be posted shortly!

Boiling Springs, PA (January 12, 2012) – Christine Lauriello has been selected to serve as the volunteer ambassador to the designated Appalachian Trail (A.T.) Community of Boiling Springs, PA and Paul Smith will serve as the ambassador to Duncannon, PA. In this role, each will serve as a community liaison to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) and the respective local volunteer club to bolster volunteerism and stewardship of the Trail the local level.

“The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is excited about building off its volunteer base by providing A.T. Ambassadors to designated A. T. Communities to help increase local stewardship of public lands and support healthy lifestyles for community citizens,” stated Julie Judkins, Community Program Manager of the ATC.

Christine Lauriello is a life long resident of Boiling Springs, and is vice president of the Cumberland Valley A.T. Club. She is president of the Friends of South Middleton Parks, Trees, and Trails, and is an avid hiker. She is married and has two children.

Paul Smith has lived in Duncannon, PA for four years and has lived in the area since 1984. Paul is a valuable asset to the Mountain Club of Maryland, the Susquehanna A.T. Club and the A.T. Community of Duncannon. He is serving as the chair for the entertainment committee of the Duncannon A.T. Community designation ceremony scheduled for June 2, 2012. He enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, gardening, and planting trees.

The Appalachian Trail Community™ program is designed to recognize communities that promote and protect the A.T. Towns, counties, and communities along the A.T.’s corridor are considered assets by A.T. hikers and many of these towns act as good friends and neighbors to the Trail. The program serves to assist communities with local initiatives such as sustainable economic development through tourism and outdoor recreation, while preserving and protecting the A.T. The A.T. Community Ambassador opportunity is the first of its kind within the A.T. cooperative management partnership.

The ATC was founded in 1925 by volunteers and federal officials working to build a continuous footpath along the Appalachian Mountains. The A.T. is approximately 2,185 miles in length, ranging from Maine to Georgia, making it one of the longest, continuously marked footpath in the world. Volunteers typically donate more than 220,000 hours each year on Trail-related work and about 2 to 3 million visitors walk a portion of the A.T. each year. This year also marks the 75th anniversary of the completion of the A.T.

About the Appalachian Trail Conservancy
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail – ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come. For more information please visit www.appalachiantrail.org.

Contact: Julie Judkins
Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Tel: 828.254.3708 x11
Fax: 828.254.3754
Email: jjudkins@appalachiantrail.org
Web: www.appalachiantrail.org

Hiking up Peter's Mountain

2012-01-10T15:57:00.000-08:00

The views from Peters Mountain in the winter are spectacular! Get a new view of Duncannon and the Clarks Ferry Bridge from above by taking a hike up Peters Mountain. It's 1.5 miles from the Trailhead at the Park & Ride area off PA-322 up to the top of the ridge, a few miles further is the Clarks Ferry Shelter and if you're feeling real ambitions you can do the whole 6.3 mile segment from PA-322 to PA-225! Check out photos below.

Updates for designation event commitments - schedule filling up!

2012-01-08T12:00:00.000-08:00

Winter view of Duncannon from Peters Mountain

With a due date of January 10th, the Commitment forms from information and retail vendors, hike leaders, photographers and musical entertainment are pouring in! It's a great start, although at first glance we still need more commitments for shuttle service to and from parking, free lunches, logistics committee, photographers and graphic artists. Get in touch with Trailangel Mary for a commitment form if you think you can help out with any of the above.

Because of printing deadlines, participating volunteers may only be mentioned in advertising and fliers if committed by the end of January. Commitments for vendors, donations, photographers, and logistics will be accepted up until the event on June 2nd. Because of planning needs and registration offered for the public hikes, planned hike routes are needed ASAP.

Here are the committed participants as of January 7th:

Friday night kick-off musicians: Brian "Nimble" McPherson (watch his Katahdin Song)

Saturday musicians: David Snyder and The Disturbinators, Mark Lukens

Saturday Presentations:

Deb Tashak, Native American Storytelling
Deb Tashak, Leave No Trace
"Avalanche" Albert Dragon, Appalachian Trail Storytelling
Hiker Culture Panel: "Cityslicker" Rachel Schwartz
Steven Saffier (PA Audubon): Landscaping for Birds & Wildlife using Native Plants
Allison "Laces" Scheiderer (ATC): Map and compass use

Saturday morning River Trips: Blue Mountain Outfitters, free 1/2 hour per trip

Saturday morning Hikes:

Trailhead at junction of Rt 322 & 147, maintained by York Hiking Club

Day Hikers of Central PA - Recycling area to Hawk Rock, return via blue blaze (4 miles, rugged terrain, experienced hikers age 16+, limit 15 hikers, start time 8:30am), register with Trisha Sanders
York Hiking Club - Rt 225 parking lot south to Clarks Ferry Shelter and blue blaze to Duncannon (6 miles, strenuous, experienced hikers age 18+, limit 20 hikers, start time 9:00aM), register with Gwen Loose
Mountain Club of Maryland - Trail head on Main St. to Hawk Rock and back (4 miles, rugged terrain, start 10:00am)
Mountain Club of Maryland - Trail head on Main St. to Cove Mountain Shelter and back (8 miles, rugged terrain, fast-pace, start 9:00am)
Appalachian Audubon Society - East side of Sherman's Creek from Recycling parking area (easy, no experience needed, all ages, limit 25 hikers, register with DATC ticket leap), hike leader is Professional Naturalist, Paul Zeph
Allison "Laces" Scheiderer (ATC Land Protection Associate) - From Recycling parking area up blue blaze and down white blaze to Main St. trail head (rugged terrain, ages 4-8 with parents, limit 20 hikers, register with DATC ticket leap)

Information Vendors

Appalachian Music Conservancy
Appalachian Trail Museum
Blue Mountain Outfitters
Keystone Trails Association
York Hiking Club
Cumberland Valley Appalachian Trail Club
Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Women and their Woods
Shermans Creek Conservation Association (also selling SCCA crocs)

Retail Vendors

Appalachian Primitives - Sheldon P. Ott
Tastefully Simple - Hattie Snavely
Mountain Bloom Honey - Daniel G. Heacock

Donating item for Raffle

Blue Mountain Outfitters
Appalachian Primitives
Tastefully Simple
Betsy Oberheim (Perry County Council of the Arts)

Donation for Prizes

The Barefoot Sisters, Walking Home and Southbound (books)
Larry Luxenberg, Walking the Appalachian Trail (book)
Randy "Windtalker" Motz & Georgia "Mom" Harris, Solemates and The Walk (book)
Terry "Bluebird" Croteau, Footpath, My A**! (book)
Jennifer "Odyssa" Pharr Davis, Becoming Odyssa (book)
Albert Dragon, Avalanche and Gorilla Jim (book)
Mary Parry, ATC Membership
Gwen Lehman, PA Audubon, 6 to 10 Native Plants

Designation Proclamation Ceremony Speakers

Pastor David Robinson, Invocation
Pam Underhill, NPS, Appalachian National Scenic Trail Park Superintendent
Larry Luxenberg, Appalachian Trail Museum Founder & President
Brenda Benner, Perry County Commissioner
Ralph Goodno, President and CEO of Lancaster County Conservancy
Karen Lutz, Appalachian Trail Conservancy Mid-Atlantic Regional Manager

Photographers

Tina Mumma (time T.B.D.)
Diane Peresic (10:30am-5:00pm)
Helen Ernest (12:00pm-5:00pm)

Graphics Committee creates "Scavenger Hunt" Cards for Hikers

2012-01-06T06:20:00.000-08:00

The DATC Graphics Committee headed up by Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club member, Susan Norris, has been churning out sharp and professional graphics for the upcoming designation event on June 2nd, 2012 - the latest is a "Scavenger Hunt" card for youths participating in morning hikes so they can spot different flora and fauna along the trail. Take that, Nature Deficit Disorder! Stay tuned for an event flier and web site currently being finalized.

In other updates, be sure to attend the upcoming DATC monthly meeting on Thurs., January 12th at 6:30pm at the Borough Office on N. High St. and remember to get those participation commitment forms into Trailangel Mary by January 10th! Having the schedule and participating organizations firmed up will help greatly with press releases in advance of the event.

And in other, other news - did you know Duncannon's New Years Eve "Sled Drop" was featured in Travel and Leisure magazine?? Check out the article here.

Susquehanna Greenway interpretive panels installed!

2012-01-03T11:46:00.000-08:00

Trailangel Mary just sent over these great shots of Sled Drop revelers checking out the newly installed Susquehanna Greenway Rivertown interpretive panels in the Old Sledworks parking lot on New Years Eve! Looks like the celebration had a great turn-out. Panels for the Appalachian Trail and the Pittsburgh-to-Harrisburg Main Line Canal Greenway will follow this coming Spring.

Head down to Old Sledworks and check them out if you haven't already!

From SGP's web site: " Interpretation emphasizes the preservation and conservation of the Susquehanna's many diverse natural and cultural resources, and historic communities and increases pride in the community and ownership of its resources."

Happy New Year! Views from a Duncannon to Rt 850 A.T. Hike

2012-01-02T10:00:00.000-08:00

For hike details on the Duncannon to Rt. 850 route, check out the "Featured Hike" on Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club's Maps and Trail Resources Page.


View from Cove Mountain back towards Susquehanna Water Gaps

Duncannon A.T. Community Advisory Committee Wraps Up 2011

2011-12-28T11:22:00.000-08:00

Photo by Paul Zeph

This past summer, Borough Councilman Fred Lauster organized a small meeting with local trail club reps, ATC staff and a well-known Trail Angel to discuss the Borough of Duncannon applying to become an official Appalachian Trail Community.

Since that time a group of dedicated volunteers have organized to form the Duncannon A.T. Community Advisory Committee which has logged well over 400 volunteer hours towards projects and planning aimed at raising awareness of the greater Duncannon area's natural and scenic assets and getting residents out-of-doors, enhancing Duncannon as a destination and gateway to the Appalachian Trail and various regional greenways, and positioning the Borough to benefit economically from outdoor recreation and heritage tourism. Special thanks to Fred and Event Coordinator Mary "trailangelmary" Parry for all their enthusiasm, time and hard work put towards this effort.

Committee progress and accomplishments thus far include:

Submitted an A.T. Community application having solicited 11 strong letters of support from local, County and regional organizations.

Saw representatives from 23 organizations and community groups attending and participating in Duncannon A.T. Community Advisory Committee monthly meetings. See contacts page for more info.

Recruited over 150 people to Duncannon A.T. Community's facebook group and received over 1,500 hits since July on the Duncannon A.T. Community blog.

Officially established an organization by obtaining a federal EIN.

Duncannon is one of ten communities trail-wide to have an ATC-appointed A.T. Community Ambassador serving as a liaison between the community and local trail-maintaining clubs in recruiting volunteers for stewardship projects.

Supported the Borough in moving forward with Apple Tree Alleywalk implementation by raising project awareness, highlighting its importance as a pedestrian/bike path connecting businesses and historical attractions to the A.T. and communicating Mountain Club of Maryland's support for a trail re-route through the alley.

Received media coverage:

Initiative Links Fitness and Science / Perry County Times
Town Celebrates Conservancy Link / Duncannon Record
Duncannon marks Trail Heritage / Duncannon Record
Duncannon, PA Designated an Appalachian Trail Community / Progress PA

Garnered additional event promotion via partnering organizations web sites, facebook pages and community calendars:

Thus far received commitments for the designation event from 5 speakers to help commemorate the designation, 6 authors donating books for door prizes, 5 retail and information vendors, 3 items for raffle, and 4 presenters for Sat. afternoon programming - with many more looking to sign on before the January 10th commitment deadline.

Received enthusiastic commitments from the Susquenita High School and Middle School Bands as well as the High School Chorus to perform at the designation event.

Susquenita Middle School students involved in the Trail to Every Classroom program have already submitted numerous original post card designs to the Post Card art contest. The winners will be unveiled at the event on June 2nd.

The Graphics Committee has produced a designation event t-shirt design as well as event-flier and hiking game-card designs.

Mountain Club of Maryland, through its Duncannon A.T. Community representative, coordinated and funded an Appalachian Trail interpretive panel to accompany Susquehanna Greenway's Rivertown kiosk. Installation is expected this coming Spring.

So what is in the pipeline for early 2012??

The DESIGNATION EVENT is a little over FIVE MONTHS away.
Designation event web site currently under construction and hoping to be launched during the second week in January.
The Fundraising/Budget Committee plans to secure a premier sponsor for the event in the coming weeks.
Plans for a community mural on the side of Miller's Newstand building are in the works as well as other volunteer beautification projects in advance of the event.
Event T-shirts are slated to be ordered at the beginning of February.
The Committee also hopes to produce a post-event display for an empty storefront on Market St. highlighting the designation event and Duncannon A.T. Community activities.

Contact event coordinator Mary "trailangelmary" Parry at trailangelmary@aol.com if interested in helping out with any of the above.
Happy New Year!

Duncannon marks its trail heritage

2011-12-27T06:41:00.000-08:00

Source: nuevamineria.com

Another article appeared in the Duncannon Record over the weekend highlighting the A.T. Community Committee's mission and plans for the June 2nd, 2012 event. Thanks to Sarah Kramer at the Perry County Times for covering the Committee's progress in Duncannon!

Duncannon marks its trail heritage

"Designation event coordinator Mary Parry, or Trailangelmary as known locally, said the event will involve local officials, residents, business owners, representatives of nonprofit organizations and trail clubs, as well as a team of dedicated volunteers who will offer outdoor recreation and environmental education activities for the Duncannon community."

Explore the Middle Susquehanna Greenway via Scenic Driving Tour

2011-12-26T14:40:00.000-08:00

Susquehanna Greenway Partnership has just published a Middle Susquehanna Greenway Driving Tour booklet on their web site and Duncannon is Stop #19 as a scenic and historically significant River Town! This 95-mile driving route explores some of the cultural and natural features of the Greenway and features audio interviews with local researchers and residents. A River Town orientation panel is currently being installed at Old Sledworks on Market St. Appalachian Trail and Harrisburg-to-Pittsburgh Main Line Canal Greenway panels will be installed as well this coming spring!

Susquehanna Greenway also highlights Duncannon attractions on a dedicated page.

"Along the way, we hope you will sense the pride river communities have with their connection to this critical resource. The cultural and natural history of the Susquehanna River is centuries long and the impact of the river is longer still when you consider geological time. This tour will guide you through both and suggest you linger when you want to explore more at selected stops, viewpoints, and historic river towns."

Duncannon Area Landscapes: Aerial Photos of the Susquehanna Water Gaps

2011-12-22T07:48:00.000-08:00

Paul Zeph of the Appalachian Audubon Society provided us with these awesome aerial photographs of Peter's Mountain, Cove Mountain and the Susquehanna Water Gaps for your viewing pleasure (part of the larger Kittatinny Ridge landscape). Committee Members, remember to log an estimate of your volunteer hours when you get the chance! This info helps us show the power of volunteerism in Duncannon.

Where the Susquehanna and Juniata Rivers meet the Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail through Rye Township (Rt. 850 crossing)

North Side of Cove Mountain

View from Duncannon tower at Old Sledworks

DATC Regular Meeting Date Determined - 2nd Thursdays

2011-12-20T17:42:00.000-08:00

Results from the latest scheduling poll indicate that the regular meeting date for DATC will be:

Every Second Thursday of the Month at 6:30pm

Next month's meeting will be held on January 12th at 6:30pm, location T.B.D. Other significant DATC dates in January include:

Jan. 8th - Business Subcommittee meeting at Doyle Hotel at 1pm
Jan. 10th - Participation Commitment form due (or let Trailangel Mary know when you or your organization will be able to commit)
Jan. 11th - Start "Fundraising Goal" Thermometer
Jan. 12th - January DATC Meeting
Jan. 29th - Event schedule finalized
Jan. 30th - First publicity release with Event Schedule

Check out the Designation Event T-Shirt Design!

2011-12-19T08:18:00.000-08:00

DATC Graphics Committee chairperson, graphic design professional and Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club member Susan Norris has created an AWESOME t-shirt design based on the concept presented by Paul Smith. Check it out at left! Thanks to Susan for all her amazing efforts. These graphics help promote the mission of the event and also the "brand" of Duncannon as an outdoor recreation destination.

Duncannon Appalachian Trail Panel Design Finalized

2011-12-14T07:16:00.000-08:00

The design has been finalized for the Appalachian Trail interpretive panel slated to be installed along with two Susquehanna Greenway panels and a Main Line Canal Greenway panel this Spring as part of Susquehanna Greenway's River Towns initiative (**Apologies that the image isn't larger and more legible!). The content and funding for the panel was provided by Mountain Club of Maryland rep Mike O'Connor through a grant from MCM's Miles Fund. SEDA-COG's Adam Wynn assisted with the layout and graphic design work.

Exciting that the panel will be in the ground in advance of the designation event in June! Special thanks to Mike O'Connor and MCM for their important efforts in marking Duncannon's place as an important stop along the Appalachian Trail.

Duncannon Highlighted on Progress Pennsylvania

2011-12-12T17:28:00.000-08:00

Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/veender/2209733518/

Over the weekend Duncannon made an appearance on the Progress Pennsylvania blog, tales of Pennsylvania revitalization and economic development told by blogger Roy Keeler based in Pottstown, PA.

Duncannon PA Designated an Appalachian Trail Community

"This tiny town of 1,522 people, 15 miles north of Harrisburg, is making the most of having the Appalachian Trail running down its main street. Taking advantage of natural surrounding is a tool for economic development. Nature-based Tourism also known as Ecotourism is a great way for a town like Duncannon to revitalize itself." - Progress Pennsylvania

Also check out the Case Studies page to read about post-industrial town turned outdoor recreation destination - Jim Thorpe, PA. Also highlighted is Damascus, VA - which dubs itself the "friendliest town on the trail." Do I smell a challenge?

ATC Appoints A.T. Ambassador in Duncannon

2011-12-08T08:53:00.000-08:00

Committee member Paul Smith was just named an A.T. Community Ambassador for Duncannon! Paul, also the Duncannon A.T. Advisory Committee's Arts & Music chairperson, will join nine other A.T. Community Ambassadors along the whole trail corridor as a local community representative trained to facilitate outreach to community members and youth groups for volunteer stewardship projects.

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy very excited to have Paul on board for this position as he's done awesome work and brought great ideas and enthusiasm to the A.T. Community Committee in Duncannon since its formation this past summer.

P.S. Did you know these hats are on sale at the Borough Office??

The Value of Outdoor Festivals to PA Communities

2011-12-06T07:25:00.000-08:00

Paddlers on the Susquehanna River, Source: PennLive.com

The A.T. Community designation celebration and town-wide outdoors festival themed "Saving Our Community from Nature Deficit Disorder" hopes to resonate beyond June 2012. The concept of an Outdoor Festival as a means to promote sustainable economic development by linking economy, society and nature is not a new one in Pennsylvania. Sustainable Pittsburgh's "Guide for Organizing an Outdoor Festival" explains it best:

Outdoor recreation is a magnet for people of all ages and integral to the changed image of a region.
Outdoor recreation contributes to equity by serving all people and narrowing the disparities gap.
Participating in outdoor recreation contributes to healthy lifestyles for young and old.
Outdoor enjoyment leads to awareness, appreciation, and likely action by all to be better stewards of the environment at home, at work, and at play.
In common with Pennsylvania's two biggest industries - agriculture and tourism - recreation amenities are resource-based strategies for significant economic development.
Recreation resources such as trails, watershed, connected parks, rivers and streams know no political boundaries.

Promotion of amenities within regions and communities can lead to legitimate economic development in the form of jobs, tourism, and vitality.

Vendor Commitments and Duncannon/Susquenita Middle School IN THE NEWS!

2011-12-04T13:37:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend two articles by reporter Sarah Kramer appeared in the Perry County Times - one focusing on Susquenita Middle School's participation in the Trail to Every Classroom program and one about Duncannon's designation and plans for the event! Follow the below links to read the articles:

"Initiative Links Fitness and Science" and "Town Celebrates Conservancy Link"

Update for Designation Event Planning: Commitment forms for information and retail vendors, hike leaders, presentations on topics relating to the outdoors, musical entertainment, river trips, shuttle service, donations for free lunch for hikers, volunteers for manning event central, photographer and videographers, donations of cash and/or hiking gear, and donations of books relating to the AT and outdoors are due to Mary Parry Event Coordinator by January 10, 2011.

Commitment forms have been received from:

Retail Vendor - Appalachian Primitives, donating an item for raffle
Retail Vendor - Tastefully Simple, donation an item for raffle
Information Vendor - Appalachian Music Conservancy
Information Vendor - Keystone Trails Association
Musical Entertainment - The Disturbinators
Book donation from Jennifer Pharr Davis, unofficial A.T. speed record holder

Jennifer Pharr Davis and
Event Coordinator Trailangel Mary

Graphics, TTEC, Business Committee Meeting Minutes

2011-12-02T08:58:00.000-08:00

Designation event planning has been moving forward with a recent meeting amongst members of the Graphics, Trail to Every Classroom and Business Committees at The Doyle Hotel on December 1st. Minutes are below. The next Graphics Committee meeting will be held on Sunday, December 18th at 2pm at The Pub on Market St. in Duncannon. Please join us if you're interested in helping out!

Attendees:

Mary Parry, Event Coordinator
Susan Norris, Graphics Chairperson
Malissa Hoover, TTEC Chairperson
Paul Smith, Music and Arts Chairperson
Vickey & Pat Kelly, The Doyle Hotel Owners
Annette Mullen, Owner of Curves in Duncannon, Wheatfield Township Supervisor

Meeting Topics:

Event Central

Mark Lukens to provide 2 free standing panels, each 4' x 8'
4 sides - display schedule, Top 10 reasons we need "Vitamin N", Raffle & information on Items for Sale
Susan Norris will create chalkboard surface on the display base and then use flourescent chalk

Trail to Every Classroom Committee ~ Malissa Hoover accepted the Chairperson position

T-Shirt Design

Additional T-Shirt design submitted by Susan Norris. Both designs were discussed and final plan for design will be completed by Susan for the Dec. 18th meeting.
T-shirt design will be consistent with other graphics & the web page.

Business Window Decorations

Mary explained her vision for designs for business window displays
Paul and Mary will approach businesses - how will it be funded?
Susan and Malissa will recruit participants to help with this project

Potential Mural at Miller's Store

Kim McKee checking in Norfolk Southern Corp. will paint the wall white.
Mr. Miller wants to know the size and see design before approving.
Mary's vision is of a large trail map of the area with embellishments of nature/natural features
How will it be funded?
Susan stated she will have design for presentation to Mr. Miller done by January 10th

Basic Timelines

Wooden nickel design is done
ASAP - Event Web Page
December 18th, Graphics Committee Meeting - review and assign all tasks and finalize timelines and T-shirt design.
January 10th - Miller's Newstand mural design - need sponsor and budget, game card design
February - order shirts
March - designs for window decorations, event flyer ready for printing, start Miller's Mural
April - event central base ready, start finish of event central, banner designs, thank you notes, elementary school contest
May - directional signs, window decorations, shuttle stop signs, print game cards
Post-event - Semi-permanent event display, send thank you cards, evaluate event

Thanks to the Graphics Committee for all their hard work!!!

Duncannon's page is Live on ATC's Web Site!

2011-11-28T09:02:00.000-08:00

Duncannon's page is live on the Appalachian Trail Communities section of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy's web site! Duncannon is now listed with other designated communities with info regarding past community efforts to support the Trail, local hiker services, and upcoming plans for the designation event. Click here or on image at right to have a look. A tentative event schedule has been posted on the Event page of this blog as well.

Duncannon's designation is also announced on Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club's homepage!

Event Venue/Vendor Space Update

2011-11-26T10:54:00.000-08:00

Update from event organizer Mary Parry - Vendors who are concerned about the info stating that vendor space will be 8' need not be concerned. Since many vendors have 10'x10' canopies, we will be adjusting each vendors space to suit.

She has been receiving lots of suggestions for event venue sites. The most logical to Fred Lauster and Mary is Cooper Field, rather than Cumberland St, Noyes Park, and Fortenbaugh's lot. At Cooper Field we can have everything in one location. The Advisory Committee will vote on this at the upcoming meeting in January. Stay tuned for Jan. meeting date/time.

Perry County Greenways, Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan

2011-11-23T06:55:00.000-08:00

How do the efforts of Committee members representing various public, private and volunteer partners in Duncannon fit into Perry County's larger picture?

The Perry County Board of Commissioners officially adopted the Perry County Greenways, Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan (GPROSP) on July 18, 2011. The plan (to view, click here) recognizes greenways, provides an updated inventory of community parks and recreation together with recommendations, and offers direction for open space protection by way of sample ordinances. In addition to supporting the Apple Tree AlleyWalk project, the following goals and action items are notable to the Duncannon Advisory Committee efforts:

Identify Trail Towns – As defined in Trail Towns Capturing Trail-Based Tourism a “Trail Town” is a destination along a long-distance trail. Whether on a rail trail, towpath, water trail, or hiking trail-trail users can venture off the trail and to enjoy the scenery, services, and heritage of the nearby community. It is a safe place where both township residents and trail users can walk, find goods and services they need, and easily access both trail and town by foot or vehicle. In such a town, the trail is an integral and important part of the community. A Trail Town is a vibrant place where people come together. It may have a bike shop, an ice cream parlor, casual restaurants, a grocery store, and quaint local shops. It has wide sidewalks, clean streets, bike racks, and benches at convenient locations. It has places to rest for the night. Trail Towns are not stand-alone communities; they are linked by the trail corridor where trail users may be passing through a town on a day trip or long distance trek, or may drive to a community and park to access a river or trial.

Promote and coordinate special events in Perry County. They are a top recreational interest among the citizens and have the potential to draw people to visit in Perry County. There is currently no centralized means for people to access information about events and programs in Perry County. Establishing a “go-to” place for people to go to in order to find out about recreation opportunities would increase awareness and stimulate participation in recreation. Consider using current providers of information as the “Goto” resource or mix of resources including Perry County, the Perry County Council of the Arts, the Dauphin County Visitors Bureau, municipal newsletters and others that may be in place.

Pursue heritage and outdoor recreation tourism as a major industry of Perry County. Action: Work aggressively with the Hershey – Harrisburg Visitors Bureau to position Perry County’s recreation and heritage assets for increased tourism.

Designation Event Budget Committee Update

2011-11-22T06:54:00.000-08:00

The Budget Committee has met and worked on the budget worksheet to develop a preliminary budget. It can be viewed here - DATC Budget Worksheet. Please enter any updated figures on that sheet. Further research is being done to develop the final budget. Fundraising Chair Matt Smith is talking to potential sponsors and will prepare the final budget.

Donations will be accepted to supplement sponsorship so we may accomplish all that is planned!

Updates from Event Coordinator Mary "trailangelmary" Parry

2011-11-17T15:13:00.000-08:00

The Board of the Advisory Committee Designation Event shall consist of 9 members including Mary "Trailangelmary" Event Coordinator, 8 other Committee Chairpersons, and Advisor Kim McKee, Appalachian Trail Conservancy Act 24 Coordinator. All chairpersons have been confirmed with the exception of 2 which we are waiting for a reply.

Mary attended the November Borough Council Meeting and distributed our "3-minute commercial" Statement, Participation Confirmation Form and cover letter to all Council members. Council member Jack Conrad spoke highly of our plans for the event to those present and asked Mary to speak about the event. Mary was also approved as a new member of the Duncannon Recreation Board at the meeting.

Members of the Event Board are meeting this week to determine the preliminary budget. Donations for this event will be accepted and are greatly appreciated. Other Subcommittee meetings will take place between now and January before the January Advisory Committee Meeting.

Participation Confirmation Forms are being distributed to potential partners for the event with a return due date of January 10.

The event web page has been started by Karen Allen Reckert of Mekea Designs. It will go public at a later date.

November Duncannon A.T. Community Committee Meeting Minutes

2011-11-15T14:38:00.000-08:00

Nov. 14th ~ Attendees:

Fred Lauster, Borough Council/Parks & Rec Board
Jerry Bell, Borough Council/Parks & Rec Board
Jack Conrad, Borough Council/Parks & Rec Board
Mary “trailangelmary” Parry, Lead Volunteer
Paul Smith, Entertainment Chairperson
Jason Finnerty, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission/Perry County Planner
Kim McKee, Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Mike O’Connor, Mountain Club of Maryland
Barb Van Horn, Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club
Rob Shaw, Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club
Susan Norris, Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club/Graphics Chairperson
Pat Woods, Susquenita Middle School
Paul Marth, Susquenita Middle School
Malissa Hoover, Susquenita Elementary School
Luke, Susquenita High School (Senior Project)
David Snyder, Appalachian Music Conservancy
Annie Lieby, Outdoor Photographer
Jim Renner, Penn Township Parks & Rec
Linda Britcher, Business Owner
Deb Takach, Resident and Storyteller
Jim McNulty, Susquehanna River Trail Association
Bruce Bishop, Susquehanna River Trail Association

Committee Members/Participating Organization Reps that couldn’t make it: Matt Smith, Fundraising Chairperson; Bob Peiffer, PR/Advertising Chairperson; Linda Sieber, Sherman’s Creek Watershed Association; Gwen Lehmann, PA Audubon

Minutes:

Introductions and congratulations to the Committee on Duncannon’s application having been approved! Going forward we will need a volunteer to do a write-up and pick photos/images for Duncannon’s page on the A.T. Communities section of the ATC web site. For examples click on the communities listed on this page: http://www.appalachiantrail.org/what-we-do/community-engagement

The Borough can also start planning for two 18" x 24" A.T. Community signs (see image at top right of blog) that will accompany the designation to be placed at community gateways or other preferred locations.

Mountain Club of Maryland (MCM) Rep Mike O’Connor let us know that the A.T. panel for the Susquehanna Greenway River Towns kiosk is currently undergoing final design and then will be sent to fabrication. MCM is funding and coordinating this effort.

Councilman Jack Conrad updated the group on the Apple Tree Alleywalk project. The Borough has voted to move forward with a site design for the first phase of the project – starting in the section adjacent to Clark’s Ferry Tavern.

Susquenita Middle School teacher Paul Marth announced that the Middle School Art Teacher has already received several submissions from all four grades for the Post Card Art Contest. The winner from each grade will be announced at the designation event and the post cards distributed to area businesses. Mary will be coordinating donated prizes for the winners.

See all planning updates for the designation event on the A.T. Community Planning page of this blog.

Action Items:

Borough can start planning for placement of two 18 x 24" full color aluminum street signs
Volunteer needed to produce content for Duncannon page on ATC's A.T. Community web site
All should fill out their event participation confirmation forms and return to Mary by January 10th or let her know when she will be receiving it if after that date. If you need participation forms for additional organizations you'd like to reach out to, contact Mary.
Malissa Hoover will check into the possibility of screening the Nat. Geo. Appalachian Trail film at the School the Friday before the event.
Insurance - Kim McKee will get answer on NPS insurance coverage - Mary(?) will explore other options for the event.
Susan Norris has (wonderfully) volunteered to head up the Graphics Committee - additional volunteers needed to serve on this committee and start helping with graphics, fliers & signage
Jason Finnerty will start putting together an event map in GIS outlining activity and event locations for use in meetings, on the web site, during the event
Volunteer needed to head the Logistics subcommittee and to coordinate and delegate responsibilities
Budget team will meet over the next few weeks to make sure the budget and fundraising targets line up once cost estimates are nailed down.
Kim McKee will start organizing volunteer workday with NSRR Enola Yard employees

First Two Donations received for Designation Event Prizes!

2011-11-14T05:52:00.000-08:00

The Committee's received the first two donations for prizes at the June 2012 event! Mary "trailangelmary" Parry has donated an Appalachian Trail Conservancy membership; and Jennifer Pharr Davis, the record-holding speed-hiker who this summer completed the 2,182 miles of the A.T. in 46 days, 11 hours and 20 minutes, donated a signed copy of her book Becoming Odyssa.

If you would like to donate a door or raffle prize to Duncannon's A.T. Community Committee for the upcoming designation event themed "Saving Our Community from Nature Deficit Disorder" (a little over six months away!) please contact event organizer Mary Parry at trailangelmary@aol.com.

Next Advisory Committee Meeting this coming Monday, Nov. 14th

2011-11-11T11:43:00.000-08:00

The A.T. Community Advisory Committee meeting is coming up on Monday, Nov. 14 at 6pm at the Borough Office on North High St. The Committee will continue planning for the June 2nd, 2012 designation event and offer updates on Apple Tree Alley and plans for potential volunteer projects in the downtown area. If you'd like to get involved, do attend!

Local Artists and Musicians sign on for Designation Celebration

2011-11-01T06:35:00.000-07:00

Antonio Andrade, Musician

In addition to the Susquenita High School and Middle Bands, local artists and musicians from Perry County Council of the Arts have signed on to perform/display at the designation celebration next June. Thus far Antonio Andrade is tentatively scheduled to perform and Sheldon Ott of Appalachian Kraft Products, outdoor photographer Annie Leiby and artist Kim Wolfe are planning to display.

Committee member and music/artist chairperson Paul Smith has also developed a t-shirt design for the event! Free vendor space is available at the June 2nd event for vendors selling products relate to nature - wood products, textiles, etc. Contact Mary Parry at trailangelmary@aol.com for a confirmation form.

Duncannon's application accepted! Borough achieves A.T. Community designation

2011-10-31T19:40:00.000-07:00

In news that comes as no surprise, the Mid-Atlantic Regional Partnership Committee had their meeting this last weekend and voted to officially designate Duncannon as an Appalachian Trail Community!! The designation celebration and signing of the official proclamation is currently scheduled for June 2nd, 2012 (on National Trails Day).

This decision was based on the strength of Duncannon's application submitted this past August outlining many of the Borough and community support of the Appalachian Trail and those who use it over the years - including Susquenita School District's participation in Trail to Every Classroom, hosting the annual Billville Hiker Feed, the Borough's passing of a land use ordinance to protect the character of the trail corridor, planning for Apple Tree AlleyWalk and many other examples. For more information visit the A.T. Community Planning page.

The next A.T. Community Committee meeting will be held Monday, Nov. 14th at 6pm at the Borough Office on N. High St. to discuss event planning and other actions the Committee can take going forward. If interested in attending please contact Mary Parry (trailangelmary@aol.com) or Kim McKee (kmckee@appalachiantrail.org).

Check out Event Speaker, Ralph Goodno, on WITF SmartTalk

2011-09-29T06:34:00.000-07:00

Ralph Goodno, President of Lancaster County Conservancy and former ATC Board Member, has committed to speaking at the June 2nd designation event on the theme of "Saving Our Community from Nature Deficit Disorder." The Lancaster County Conservancy is doing a lot of work right now that stems from Richard Louv's work and that of other writers and educators. The Committee reached out to Mr. Goodno after hearing his visit to WITF Radio SmartTalk back in August where he discussed the LCC's mission to "save and steward the ecosystems and landscapes upon which we depend for food, clean water and air, economic and public health and the restoration of soul and spirit" and how the organization aims to achieve those lofty goals. Listen to the full show here: http://www.witf.org/smart-talk/preserving-nature-2

We will hopefully be reaching out to WITF as well as the event approaches. In other updates, Susquehanna River Trail Association and Shermans Creek Conservation Association have both confirmed that they would like to be involved with the event!

Special Permit approved by Borough for June 2nd, 2012 Designation Event

2011-09-21T07:42:00.000-07:00

Update! Last evening, Borough Council approved a special permit for the June 2nd, 2012 Appalachian Trail Community designation event themed "Saving Our Community from Nature Deficit Disorder." The Committee is chipping away at the to-do list in event planning - thanks much to Borough Council for their support.

I also wanted to post this video relevant to the potential for tourism development in Duncannon which was recently developed by the PA Wilds Initiative, a collaborative effort that aims to revitalize a 12 1/2-county area of rural Pennsylvania through nature and heritage tourism development. It outlines a strategy for community revitalization based on developing and promoting the natural, recreation and historic assets that make small towns and rural areas unique.

"After decades of job losses and population decline, rural PA looked around and realized it had some unique products that could not be outsourced to China - and that people would pay to enjoy the stuff we sometimes took for granted.."

Susquenita Middle School and High School Bands to Perform at Event!

2011-09-19T07:24:00.000-07:00

We've received confirmation that both the High School Band, Middle School Band and High School Jazz Band from Susquenita School District will all be performing at the designation event on June 2nd, 2012!

The Committee is also planning to have local musicians and artists from both Duncannon and Perry County Council of the Arts performing and displaying artwork during the main event in the afternoon.

Trailangel Mary has created a facebook group for supporters of Duncannon as an Appalachian Trail Community and to post quick updates for event planning - visit or join the group here. 151 members and counting!

Sept. 14th A.T. Community Committee Meeting Minutes

2011-09-15T08:46:00.000-07:00

Duncannon A.T. Community Committee
Meeting Minutes

September 14^th, 2011

Duncannon Borough Office

Attendees:

Fred Lauster, Borough Council
Kim McKee, Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Barb Van Horn, Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club (also Keystone Trails, Penn Township)
Mary Parry, Trail Angel and Duncannon Resident
Mike O’Connor, Mountain Club of Maryland
Jason Finnerty, Tri-County Regional Planning
Paul Smith, Duncannon Resident
Paul Marth, Susquenita Middle School
Rick Knepp, Susquenita Middle School
Matt Smith, Perry County Chamber
Bob Peiffer, Perry County Chamber
Thru-Hikers “Don’t Ask” and “Turtle,” Origins unknown...

Meeting Minutes:

Introductions and Kim M. recapped minutes from the August 11^th meeting. The Appalachian Trail Community application has been submitted and Duncannon’s designation will be officially determined at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Partnership Committee meeting taking place October 21-23.

Updates:

Trails to Every Classroom – Susquenita Middle School teacher Paul Marth updated the group on some projects the TTEC teachers have started and are working towards at the Middle School including:

Starting off the school year with the “Let’s Move” initiative, 100 mile walking clubs with grade levels competing to “finish the A.T.”
6^th graders are reading the book “Halfway to the Sky” and hiking Pole Steeple in Pine Grove Furnace S.P. in the spring
Developing “Quests” for the 7^th and 8^th graders
Also developing an annual Post Card Contest with student-produced post card art specific to Duncannon available in town for hikers to mail home, other trail towns will follow suit – can unveil the Duncannon post card at the celebration

Paul Marth is also involved with Scouts and anticipates Scout participation from Duncannon, Sherman’s Dale and Marysville in the event – can lead hikes for Scout members on morning of event

Driving Tour Kiosk – Mike O’Connor has been collecting text and images. He and Kim M. will try to meet up in the near future to discuss panel layout.

Apple Tree Alley – Kim M. gave the group an update on DCNR’s recent meeting with the Borough regarding applying for the DCNR Community Partnership grant to begin a first phase on the AlleyWalk.

Borough Council President Duane Hammaker will be presenting the question at the next Council meeting of whether Council feels comfortable moving forward with this grant or if there are issues they feel need to be addressed first. Conversations between Mike Piaskowski of DCNR and the Borough will proceed from there.
Kim M. will be attending next Borough Council meeting (September 20^th at 7:30pm) to hear Council’s determination, potential concerns to be addressed and show support for the project. Any others interested in attending are encouraged to do so. Fred indicated a large portion of the meeting will be dedicated to public comment on another topic and recent flooding and that it may be a long meeting.
In addition we’ll be waiting to see a 2011 update on the Borough’s RICH Plan (ReIntroducing Community Heritage), more specifically the sections on the Appalachian Trail, Apple Tree AlleyWalk and Civic Events as the Committee can potentially play a role in assisting the Borough in meeting their goals.

Designation Event Planning

Date: The Committee decided on June 2^nd, 2012 for the designation event, which is National Trails Day, Town Yard Sale Day and the Fire Company also hosts a chicken BBQ on that date.
The theme is “Saving Our Community from Nature Deficit Disorder” – see recent articles from the NYTimes: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/11/opinion/sunday/kristof-were-rich-in-nature.html?_r=2 and Patriot News (August): http://www.pennlive.com/editorials/index.ssf/2011/08/natures_calling_but_were_too_b.html
General Event Outline (still tentative): The event is envisioned as a series of outdoor activities taking place in the morning including different types of hikes, paddle trips & trail maintenance trips – the Scouts may potentially do an overnight Friday eve and hike-in to town the next day, the event can also encourage families to camp out the night before and provide a guide to area campsites.
All groups will then converge on town in early-to-mid afternoon where vendors (trail clubs, environmental groups, community groups, etc.), local artists and musicians will be set up, student art work – likely near intersection of Cumberland & High St. where National Night Out is held (Fred will check on special permit from Borough)
Other events for children/hikers may take place in Noye Park, Waggoner’s Park prior to main event in town – Rick Knepp mentioned a public run/hike the school hosts on the cross-country course as another possibility for a coinciding event. Mary has additional ideas on her tentative agenda as well.
A free meal will likely be provided around late afternoon/dinnertime for those who have a certain amount of stars on their “event card”
Main Programming will also likely take place in the late afternoon with speakers, the official designation proclamation, school band, the presentation of the official Post Card, etc.
Who are we targeting? Trail clubs and their members, Boy Scouts, environmental groups, school children and their families, local church groups, Susquehanna River Trail Association, local outdoor-oriented “meet-up” groups, thru-hikers and the larger A.T. hiking community. Mary is maintaining a list of organizations and groups we’ve reached out to.
Numbers We’re anticipating somewhere in the range of 200-300 people participating in the event and attending the celebration in town.
Keynote speakers:

Paul Marth suggested the blind thru-hiker that spoke at designation event in Georgia – Mary will get in touch via A.T. Museum
Larry Luxenberg of A.T. Museum
Elected officials – State Rep, County Commissioners
Kim M. spoke to Ralph Goodno of Lancaster County Conservancy this morning about suggestions or his interest in speaking – more specifically on Nature Deficit Disorder theme. He said he is interested and will get back to us next week once he checks his schedule. Would like a better idea for what we would specifically like him to speak on – send thoughts.
Karen Lutz, ATC Regional Director and potentially a rep from the National Park Service A.T. Office

Music Chairperson: Paul Smith has been in touch with a variety of local musicians and artists willing to participate. Has been in touch with Perry County Council of the Arts.
Fundraising Chairperson: Matt Smith will head up fundraising and sponsorships with assistance from Bob Peiffer.
Graphics Chairperson: SATC has a club member that is interested in getting involved and good with graphics. Barb Van Horn will get in touch. Kim M. can assist as needed.
Advertising/PR Chairperson: Bob Peiffer indicated he can help with advertising and has contacts with local media. Kim M. can help with advertising as well and utilize ATC media contacts/press releases to spread word. Can also work with Mary to develop event web site. Committee will call on local groups to spread word amongst their memberships as well regarding their guided hike/trip and the main event later in the day.

Action items:

The Committee will meet again in early November, Kim M. will schedule at some point in October – at this November meeting we will set up an event outline and determine a timeline both for day-of and pre-event planning items.
Anyone interested in attending Borough Council meeting to hear Apple Tree AlleyWalk discussion can do so next Tuesday, Sept. 20^th at 7:30pm
Barb Van Horn will get in touch with potential graphic designer for event.
Mary will continue adjusting/developing agenda and outreach to partnering organizations, confirm date with those she has been in touch with, try to get in touch with blind thru-hiker as potential speaker (believe his name is Bill Irwin)
Fred will seek special permit from the Borough for event.
Kim M. will communicate with Bob Peiffer regarding advertising and communicate with Mary about developing an event web site
Mike O’Connor and Kim M. will meet to discuss A.T. panel lay-out
Paul Marth and Rick Knepp will confirm date with school groups (art teacher, school band, etc.) and continue developing TTEC programs to be integrated into event
Paul Smith will continue organizing local musicians and artists to participate and confirm date, communicate with Susquenita re: school band participation.
Matt Smith and Bob Peiffer will continue developing fundraising plan and confirm date with any businesses/organizations engaged.
Kim M. will be in touch with Jason Finnerty and Fred regarding resources for Comprehensive Planning if Borough seeks to update and notify committee when updated RICH Plan is complete

Sept. 14th (Tomorrow) A.T. Community Advisory Committee Meeting STILL ON

2011-09-13T10:29:00.000-07:00

Despite flooding in Duncannon from Tropical Storm Lee over the weekend, we will still be holding tomorrow's A.T. Community Advisory Committee meeting at the Borough Office at 6pm. Click here or see post below to see more info on meeting details.

**Preservation Pennsylvania just sent out an alert spreading word about resources available for flood damaged buildings.** (See below)

Photo by Mary Parry - Market St. on Sept. 8th

A good place to begin is this website: http://www.oldhouseweb.com/how-to-advice/treating-flood-damaged-older-and-historic-buildings.shtml. It includes a checklist of things to do, first steps in drying out your buildings, how to save your foundation and a number of other useful topics. Another great resource is The Treatment of Flood Damaged Properties: http://ncptt.nps.gov/pdf/NTHP-Information-Booklet-82-Flood-Damage-and-Older-Homes.pdf.

Additionally, please let Preservation Pennsylvania know if your historic building has sustained any significant damage. They are maintaining a list of properties damaged by the storms; and are also offering free technical assistance to anyone (individuals, organizations, municipalities, corporations) who requests it. Please call their office at (717) 234-2310 or send an email at info@preservationpa.org.

"A Trail to Every Classroom" plans at Susquenita Middle School

2011-09-01T04:03:00.000-07:00

As the schoolyear begins, the teachers at Susquenita Middle School participating in the Trail to Every Classroom (TTEC) service learning program have several exciting ideas and projects they are working on - projects related to the trail and the local communities.

Some the programs they are working on and towards are:

100 mile walking club with Grade level teams competing to complete the AT
Student Developed “Quests” for both Duncannon and Marysville
A Student “Post Card” contest for hikers on the AT.
A “Trail Mail” Program with other TTEC Schools
A Bio Diversity inventory of Local Flora and fauna
A “Micro” AT on School District property

Susquenita teachers were present at the Sept. 14th meeting to offer updates and discuss how some/all of these projects can be incorporated into the event! Check out the awesome video they put together for students about TTEC below!

Next A.T. Community Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for Sept. 14th

2011-08-30T11:54:00.000-07:00

The upcoming A.T. Community Advisory Committee meeting will be held Wednesday, September 14th at 6pm at the Borough Office in Duncannon.

At this meeting we will finalize the designation event date - themed "Saving Our Community from Nature Deficit Disorder" - via discussion or vote (either May 12th or June 2nd of next year) as well as discuss event-planning updates and ideas for programming, fundraising, communications/PR, or additional partnering organizations. We will hope to cover other updates on the A.T. panel for the Susquehanna Greenway kiosk, Trails to Every Classroom and any other items the Committee would like to discuss as well.

To view a tentative event agenda assembled by lead event-planning volunteer, Mary Parry, click here.

Appalachian Trail Community Application is IN!!

2011-08-29T06:01:00.000-07:00

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy Mid-Atlantic Regional Office in Boiling Springs, PA today received Duncannon's Appalachian Trail Community program application.
You can view the complete application by clicking here (PDF - 7mb).

In addition to addressing the four criteria for A.T. Community designation and a description of why Duncannon should be selected as an Appalachian Trail Community, letters of support from the following organizations were included:

Mountain Club of Maryland
Perry County Conservation District
Allegheny Ridge Corporation
Perry County Commissioners
Susquenita School District
Perry County Planning Commission
Hiker Theresa Briderbeek
Audubon Pennsylvania
Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club
Borough of Duncannon
Hiker Ray "Walkinhome" Ronan

Going forward the local Regional Partnership Committee will evaluate the request and approval should be recognized by October. Thanks to all the Committee for their efforts in gathering support documents and assisting Fred in providing text for certain sections. Special thanks to Fred Lauster for completing the application, pulling this all together and submitting to the ATC. The next Committee meeting will be scheduled shortly!

"Saving Our Community from Nature Deficit Disorder"

2011-08-16T08:01:00.000-07:00

Trail Angel Mary Parry has taken the lead on designation event planning for the A.T. Community Committee and is currently in the process of lining up partner organizations and programming for the day. The tentative date for the event will be a weekend in May or June 2012 - date confirmation will go out soon (see info below).

The theme for the event will be: "Saving Our Community from Nature Deficit Disorder" (theme inspired by Richard Louv's Last Child in the Woods) and will include partners from various local and regional conservation, outdoor recreation and community-based groups.

Thoughts on event date possibilities & potential conflicts are currently:

a. May 12 - strong - day before Mother's Day

b. May 19 - conflict - Trail Days Damascus, VA

c. May 25 - conflict - Memorial Day weekend

d. June 2 - possible - National Trails Days, Boiling Springs Founders Day

e. June 9 - conflict - National Get Outdoors Day, Appalachian Trail Museum Festival

Send any info on date preference to trailangelmary@aol.com. Stay tuned for updates!

Aug. 11th A.T. Community Committee meeting minutes

2011-08-15T09:28:00.000-07:00

Attendees:

Fred Lauster, Borough Council, Parks & Recreation
Mary Parry, Trail Angel and Duncannon resident
Mike O’Connor, Mountain Club of Maryland
Paul Smith, Duncannon resident
Jason Finnerty, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission (Perry County Planning)
Malissa Hoover, Susquenita School District
Matt Smith, Perry County resident
Gwen Lehman, PA Audubon
Kim McKee, Appalachian Trail Conservancy

Action items before next meeting:

Make final decision on event date (Mary to coordinate – see updates below) – start notifying potential partner organizations
Application – Mary will take lead on Question #5 and Malissa on #3, email text to Fred
Malissa will get letter of support from Susquenita School District
Kim M. will send Mary list of other organizations/potential partners already contacted, get back to Mike on panel design content, & send Matt information on costs from previous designation events
Paul will look into music for the event (local bands, musicians)
Outreach to additional partners – see last section of agenda – let Kim or Mary know if you can contact any of those listed

A.T. Community Program Application – September 1 deadline

Fred updated us on letters of support
Malissa will send Fred language for question #3 regarding service project and seek letter of support from Susquenita School District “Describe the event and list the lead volunteer liaison with contact information. Please list any activities Trail to Every Classroom alumni may be implementing.”
Mary will send Fred language for #5 “Describe why your town should be selected as an Appalachian Trail Community. What can this program do for your community? What can your town do for the Appalachian Trail?”

Trails to Every Classroom Update -

Trails to Every Classroom – Service learning program involving teaching methods that encourage students to solve local community problems while offering a hands-on learning experience, more info: http://www.appalachiantrail.org/what-we-do/youth-education
4 Teachers from Susquenita School District and the Assistant Principal of the middle school are involved
They’re currently working with K-8 in Susquenita School District
Susquenita also does adventure-based counseling at the High School

Susquehanna Greenway Driving Tour Kiosk

[Mike] SEDA-COG got in touch on 8/12 regarding panel design/content
Kim M. will talk with Kim W. regarding thoughts on content or design and get back to Mike mid-week

Potentially reviving 501c3 “Friends” group

See how things develop with event planning before considering taking on this type of organizational structure

Event

Mary Parry will be the volunteer lead for the designation event
[Mary] Vision for the event is to have tables like National Night Out with groups present related to anything trail, nature, outdoors, etc. (Trail Clubs, ATC, Audubon, Susquehanna Greenway, Susquehanna River Trails Association, etc.)
THEME - Idea for theme – “Saving our Community from Nature Deficit Disorder”

Inspiration from Robert Louv’s book “Last Child in the Woods”
Quote from 1980s National Geographic article on Duncannon to read at designation event

LOCATION - Options discussed (more than one venue?):

Cooper Park
Noye Park
Duncannon Square
National Night Out location
Penn Township Park

ACTIVITIES ideas

Can coordinate trail maintenance events that day with local trail clubs (Mountain Club of Maryland, Susquehanna ATC, Keystone Trails, York Trail Club)
[Matt] Kids present and involved will be important – add excitement and energy to community event
[Malissa] Trails to Every Classroom teachers can run “Quest” that day – type of treasure hunt for students
[Mary] A.T. in 2 minutes or less obstacle course – organized by Billville hiker
Perry County Conservation District – Coordinate with Envirothon?
Susquehanna River Trail Association plan river trip
Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club lead hikes & river float
Story tellers from A.T. Museum festival (Mary has already confirmed), Appalachian Jug Band
Mary contacted Fire Company, her contact is going to check if the Fire Company will be willing to cook food for the guests given we provide the food and the charcoal, etc.
[Mary] Riverfront campground willing to do a free guide for 9 children ages 12 and up. It would be from Clemson Island to Duncannon - approximately 2 hour trip. Would like to use this trip to give opportunity for children who do not otherwise have the opportunity to get on the river. Sign up through Susquenita perhaps.
Paul will be looking into music – local musicians and bands from Perry County, send any ideas in his direction
[Gwen] PA Audubon can take the lead on birding hikes along the stream or ridge; set up an area for binocular use demonstration; set up display on native plants and backyard habitat; promote backyard bird count and feeder watch as a way to enter more data on birds within the Kittatinny Corridor.

FUNDRAISING

[Matt] depends on scale, what the costs will be – go after big donations from one large donor or smaller donations from various businesses.
Kim will get Matt numbers from previous A.T. designation events this week
Potential costs include signs, printing, keynote speakers, t-shirts, food (if not donated), etc.

FOOD ideas

Pig Roast
Picnic - Hot dogs and hamburgers
Local restaurants as street vendors? Roadhawg BBQ, pizza, etc.

DATE – Updates from Mary on date possibilities

May 12 - strong - day before Mother's Day
May 19 - conflict - Trail Days Damascus, VA
May 25 - conflict - Memorial Day weekend
June 2 - possible - National Trails Days, Boiling Springs Founders Day
June 9 - conflict - National Get Outdoors Day, Appalachian Trail Museum Festival

SPEAKERS - Ideas

Rep. Keller and Commissioner Benner
Mary will contact Richard Louv (potential keynote speaker?)
Larry Luxenbourg, A.T. Museum (has already agreed to speak)

Additional Partners to reach out to for Event & Committee

[Jason] Carlisle Health and Wellness – wanted their involvement in putting together Parks & Rec opportunities in Perry County, this event & Apple Tree Alley may fall in line with that
Holy Spirit, new affiliation with the business campus, could also be interested
[Matt] Penn Township and Duncannon EMS as well
[Jason] Lisa Dorman or Sarah Kramer from the newspaper could also be invited to these planning meetings, potential story about community projects/events
[Mary] York Hiking Club
[Malissa] Steve Oliphante - Owner of outfitters on City Island & involved with Chesapeake Bay, Shermans Creek Conservation, PA Game Commission, Businesses - Sheetz & Rohrer Bus

Aug. 8th Apple Tree Alleywalk Meeting Minutes & Action Items

2011-08-09T05:35:00.000-07:00

Residential area along Apple Tree Alley

Duncannon Borough Office, 10am

Attendees:

Fred Lauster, Borough Council
Tanuya Matter, Borough Manager
Lou Colón, Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED)
Kim Wheeler, DCED
Will Soper, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission
Pastor Robinson, Duncannon Church of God
Karl King, Main Line Canal Greenway/Allegheny Ridge Corporation
Robert Peiffer, Perry County Chamber of Commerce
Rick Knepp, Susquenita Middle School
Mike Piaskowski, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)
Tom Grbenick, SEDA-COG Community Resource Center
Kim Williams, Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Kim McKee, Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Ashley Albert, Senator Corman’s Office

Summary of Action Items:

Mike P. planning meeting with Borough on August 24^th to discuss the first phase and preparing the DCNR grant application, seek Borough Council stamp of approval
Fred will get Lou Colón the information regarding the 501c3, Lou will check on whether it can be revived
Kim Wheeler & Lou will notify the committee when Keystone Community program guidelines are released
Will Soper will look into how the 12yr transportation plan comes into play with the 20yr long-range transportation plan
Kim M. will send Lou the State Transportation Committee hearing application process info; Kim M. will also coordinate with Fred to draft written testimony before deadline
Kim M. will update A.T. Community Committee on Apple Tree AlleyWalk at Thursday, 8/11 meeting (6pm at the Borough Office) and gauge interest in both taking on role of 501c3 and coordinating Apple Tree Alley volunteer efforts
Tanuya will check on possibility of allocating Borough’s liquid fuels funds to Apple Tree AlleyWalk project over coming years
Mike P. will notify Robert as to when Perry County Chamber members should interested in making a donation, pledging in-kind contributions or interested in tax credit programs should attend Apple Tree AlleyWalk committee meetings
**NOTE** Businesses will be planning out their budgets for the coming year before December, preferably invite them attend before then
Kim M. will schedule next meeting for mid-September in the coming weeks
ALL – send Kim M. any important updates for the blog

Minutes:

Example projects from the region:

[Tom G.] Another example project in the region – Kish Riverwalk/Trail in Lewistown Borough: http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/brc/Keystone/cameos/3KishRiverwalkMifflin.pdf
Ongoing project that goes back at least a decade and led to interest in redeveloping a Brownfield site
From handouts – Millersburg Riverfront park: http://www.millersburgpa.org/Home/lykens-alley-rail-trail---millersburg-section
Newport Buy-a-Brick campaign: http://www.nrps.pa.net/buyabrick.html

SEDA-COG: Potential role

[Tom G.] Can provide ongoing technical assistance, can serve as knowledge source regarding planning process/project designs
Can also provide design services, has worked with Borough engineer in the past
Prepared to assist the Borough with writing grant applications, within limits – can assist with DCNR application pro bono
[Mike P.] Does SEDA-COG have any bulk contracts/purchasing power? No.

DCNR: Potential role of and funding opportunities

[Mike P.] Can help coordinate these efforts. DCNR grant can be a “doorstep allocation,” though private fundraising should be done as well.
Next application is due in early April – Mike P. will coordinate meeting with Borough and other related parties to discuss first phase/application process
Can offer services to help coordinate the financials – communicate with DCED & PennDOT
**Important for local constituency to stay engaged**

DCED: Potential role and funding opportunities

[Lou] Having a non-profit in place for this project could play an important role
Duncannon Area Revitalization Inc. still has $1,800 worth of funds
Fred will check on the information for the 501c3 and get that to Lou – Lou will check on whether it can be revived
Special Projects Program Tax Credit (part of NPP – see below)

Solicit local businesses/corporations to donate – they would receive a tax credit in turn
**January 31^st, 2012 – last round of tax credits

Neighborhood Partnership Program (NPP) – Highly competitive

The longer the term, the higher the tax credits
$50,000/yr minimum for NPP (for 5 or 10 years)
Donors will realize a return of 75% on their taxes
Visit www.newpa.com and search for NPP
4 tax credit programs are listed
Sometimes the Special Projects Program is used to get a project started and then a different tax program is applied for the next year

[Kim Wheeler] Can come along with Borough rep when soliciting funds from a bank, utility, etc. to provide support/explain program
Generally non-profits coordinate to put a lunch together and invite their prospective donors, DCED presents at this lunch
Per Mike P.’s question: If there is one anchor donor at $50,000, others can contribute smaller amounts as well
The program can also accept in-kind contributions and other funding programs (CDBG, DCNR, etc.) as a match
Very “Return on Investment” (ROI)-focused – DCED wants to see the impacts over 5 years – increased number of businesses, rising property values, increased sales tax collected, other amenities developed because of initial catalyst project
PSU Extension in Middletown has students that can assist in forecasting economic impacts
Keystone Communities Streetscape Grant another option for project-based work
Enterprise Zone tax credits – for attracting or expanding businesses, Duncannon is within a designated Enterprise Zone
DCED also reaches out to the Department of Banking – they have access to the center for business financing as well
Connecting to the Downtown will be key for DCED involvement – advantageous if an anchor building were involved, per se
DCED also has funds for Community Improvement Program (non-Main Street program communities are eligible) – rolling application and decisions will be made by May 15^th of next year.
Kim and Lou will notify committee when Keystone Communities guidelines become available

Main Line Canal Greenway: Potential role

[Karl] An existing 501c3 can act on behalf on the Borough – Karl will look into whether Allegheny Ridge Corporation would be willing to take on that role if it came down to it
Would probably be less efficient than having a more local organization formed
Can also provide technical assistance for grant-writing – DCNR or Transportation Enhancements
Also noted Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits available to private sector
[Lou] The tax credits can be syndicated to third-party (could be corporation with no interest in project other than acquiring tax credits) – building owners would not necessarily have to front the cost for the restoration themselves
The program is ran by Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission and Scott Doyle is the contact\DCED can partner with this program as well through the Keystone Communities program
Can also get an insurance policy on the tax credits to ensure completion of project
[Tom G.] Hitch: the property has to be listed on federal register of historic places or eligible for listing

Susquenita Middle School: Potential Role

[Rick] Can get middle school groups involved with planting trees, volunteer work, etc.
General community outreach, generate excitement about project and community pride
Possible attendance at future Borough Council meetings to show community support for project

Perry County Chamber of Commerce: Potential role and funding opportunities

[Robert] Chamber voted unanimously to support the project and has provided Fred with a letter of support for A.T. Community application
Chamber has a number of non-profits within their organization, the co-chair, Frank Campbell, is very involved with Newport Revitalization
Board members are associated with statewide organizations
Can be a resource for in-kind services/contributions, very committed to the Duncannon area – has started to talk to businesses about potential donations from trees to bricks to excavation work

Tri-County Regional Planning Commission: Potential role and funding opportunities

[Lou] Transportation Enhancement process – State Transportation Committee holding hearings over the next month (Altoona, Aug. 11^th, Gettysburg, Aug. 26^th)
Must apply to present testimony – they will accept written testimony through the end of September, would be good to have this project presented
ATC will be present at Gettysburg, Lou (DCED) will be present at Altoona – Kim M. will send Lou the public hearing guidelines
[Will] Will look into how the 12yr program comes into play with the long range transportation plan (20yr)
Tri-County RPC sees this as very important – wants to see it move from long-range transportation plan to funded through Transportation Enhancements (TE)
Will stay on top of progress with federal legislation and keep committee updated
Tri-County also has the CDBG planner on staff – Eliz Wimmer
**Phasing** – this project can be programmed through TE phase-by-phase, each phase could stand alone

Appalachian Trail Conservancy: Potential role

[Kim Williams] Supporting the Borough, providing technical assistance as well as staff capacity allows, facilitating meetings and committee communication
Mobilizing Appalachian Trail Community Committee and volunteers, facilitating potential transition into 501c3 through reviving Duncannon Area Revitalization, Inc. or otherwise
Connecting local Trail clubs to Duncannon projects

Duncannon Church of God: Potential role

[Pastor Robinson] Will take this information back to other Pastors in the Community
Will perform community outreach and generate support at the base level
Possible attendance at future Borough Council meetings to show community support for project

Senator Corman’s Office: Potential role

[Ashley] Will take this information back to Senator Corman, can provide letters of support where needed

Duncannon Borough: Potential role and comments

[Tanuya] Non-profit designation will be important in getting the community involved
Borough has started to have success in engaging civic groups in community projects, also summer youth work program has been building momentum
Boy Scouts, Schools, Churches, Lions Club could get involved in non-profit or mobilizing volunteers
[Tom G.] Liquid fuels funds – Borough should potentially allocate some liquid fuel funds towards project in coming years, would be helpful in fundraising to show Borough is dedicating funds as well
[Fred] Noted after meeting: Borough does have a certain amount of dedicated Apple Tree AlleyWalk funds set aside from a few years ago

Susquehanna Greenway Partnership: Potential role

[Tom G.] SGP is currently developing a River Town assessment tool – help engage community in business development ideas

Final Comments:

Short-term – discussing and developing a plan to start on an initial phase with DCNR (Mike P. coordinating)
Longer-term – a group needs to look at organizational aspects (between various organizations/public entities involved) and a 10-yr project development strategy
[Kim M.] Thought - Given project timeframe and project history – should the committee consider a project-based Memorandum of Understanding outlining roles and responsibilities in case of staff turnover in coming years?
[Robert] Let Perry County Chamber know when interested members/businesses in tax credits, donations or in-kind contributions should attend meetings – preferably BEFORE NOVEMBER as businesses plan for next fiscal year budgets
[Kim M.] Will form email distribution list and continue posting updates to blog: http://duncannonat.blogspot.com
Next all-committee meeting will be planned for mid-September, Kim M. will schedule in coming weeks.

A.T. Community Advisory Committee Meeting scheduled for Thurs. Aug 11th at 6pm

2011-08-03T13:38:00.000-07:00

The next A.T. Community Advisory Committee meeting will take place at the Borough Office (428 N. High St.) on Thursday, August 11th at 6pm. (Note: this is separate from the Apple Tree AlleyWalk meeting scheduled for Aug. 8th which will focus specifically on the AlleyWalk project)

We'll hope to cover completing the program application which is due September 1st, deciding on date and a "vision" or theme for the designation event, and discussing other possible A.T. Community Committee activities to build some momentum before the event.

If you are interested in attending or getting involved please contact Kim McKee at kmckee@appalachiantrail.org or Fred Lauster at flauster@duncannonboro.org and you will be added to the email list when the agenda is sent out prior to the meeting.

Apple Tree Alleywalk Meeting scheduled for Monday, August 8th at 10am

2011-07-25T08:37:00.000-07:00

Apple Tree AlleyWalk Concept Designs

According to availability via the scheduling poll, the next Apple Tree AlleyWalk subcommittee meeting will be scheduled for 10am on Monday August 8th at the Borough Office (428 N. High St., Duncannon). A reminder and agenda will be emailed the week prior. If you have any specific items to be included on the agenda or would like to R.S.V.P., please contact Kim McKee at kmckee@appalachiantrail.org.

"Community Partnership" Program through Hershey-Harrisburg Regional Visitors Bureau

2011-07-20T08:28:00.000-07:00

View from the Doyle Hotel

Justin Martsolf, Partnership Director at the Hershey Harrisburg Regional Visitors Bureau (HHRVB), just informed me of their "Community Partnership" program which starts at $180/yr to have HHRVB "put you on the map" in promoting events, businesses, etc. through their annual visitors guide, web site and PR department.

Utilizing the HHRVB Public Relations department (AND Appalachian Trail Conservancy media outlets) to promote a designation event would just be one of many community benefits of such a partnership. Complete information on partner benefits and services can be viewed here (PDF) and in the link on the sidebar.

Justin seemed very enthusiastic about potentially meeting with the A.T. Advisory Committee to discuss how Duncannon could best utilize HHRVB services to promote itself to a larger tourism market for its attractions, outdoor recreation opportunities, lodging, etc. Perhaps the A.T. Community Advisory Committee could assist in recruiting tourism-related businesses to the meeting to hear more about these opportunities! Unsure about the economic impacts of tourism in this region? Check out the Tourism Stats from the large feeder markets of New York City metro, Philadelphia, Baltimore, NJ, New York, Washington D.C., Pittsburg & Western PA and Maryland within this region.

Updates and Apple Tree Alley subcommittee meeting scheduling

2011-07-19T07:51:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in serving on the Apple Tree AlleyWalk subcommittee - please visit the following doodlepoll link to indicate your availability for a meeting in Duncannon during the second week of August.

http://www.doodle.com/8dkbt2v6pzivq4qs

Since the July 13th Duncannon A.T. Advisory committee meeting there have been a few updates:

Karl King has indicated that Duncannon is identified as a "hub community" and a priority for Main Line Greenway Canal and the organization will support efforts for the Apple Tree AlleyWalk project. Main Line Canal can provide assistance in developing walking tours and interpretive opportunities and also technical assistance in applying for the DCNR Community Partnerships grant. Recommendations for sources of funds include the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program which would require support from state legislators.
Perry County Commissioner Brenda Benner has provided a letter of support to the Borough for the Appalachian Trail Community program application.
Letters of Support have also been pledged from the local trail clubs - Mountain Club of Maryland and Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club.
Kim Wheeler at PA DCED noted that it might be possible for a funding application to be considered for in-town streetscape improvements or trail connections to and within the town through the Keystone Communities grant program. The guidelines have not been finalized yet nor have the deadlines been set. She will keep the group up-to-date.

Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes ~ 7/13

2011-07-18T06:23:00.000-07:00

July 13^th, 2011 ~ Duncannon Borough Office

Attendees:

Fred Lauster, Duncannon Borough Council
Jerry Bell, Duncannon Borough Council
Kim McKee, Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Karen Lutz, Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Kim Williams, Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Tom Grbenick, SEDA-COG
Trish Carothers, Susquehanna Greenway Partnership
Gwen Lehman, PA Audubon
Mike O’Connor, Mountain Club of Maryland
Barb Van Horn, Susquehanna Appalachian Trail Club & Keystone Trails Association
Robert Peiffer, Perry County Chamber of Commerce
Brenda Benner, Perry County Commission
Karl King, Main Line Canal Greenway
Mike Piaskowski, DCNR
Roger Smith, Perry County Council of the Arts & Rt. 15 Byway of the Arts
Dave Robinson, Duncannon Church of God
Mike Kmiecinksi, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission
Will Soper, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission
Jason Finnerty, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission (Perry County Planning)
Paul Smith, Duncannon Resident
Mary Parry, Trail Angel and Resident

Other stakeholders engaged that could not attend:

Pat Woods, Susquenita Middle School
Tanuya Matter, Duncannon Borough Manager
Dave Lange, NPS, Rivers, Trails & Conservation Assistance Program
Jimmy Rosen, Old Sled Works
Pat & Vickey Kelly, The Doyle Hotel
Doug Gibson, Blue Mountain Outfitters (Marysville)
Steve Fehrs, Duncannon Resident

Stakeholders identified to reach out to:

Todd Brackovich, Perry County Conservation District
Rick Dunlap, Hershey Harrisburg Visitors Bureau
Pat Tomes, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy
Matt Smith, Perry County Rotary/Perry County Chamber
Stanley Mutzabaugh, Mutzabaugh’s Market
Annette Mullen, Curves
John and Corrine Cunningham, Riverfront Campground
Susquehanna River Trail Association

Minutes:

Designation Event ideas:

(Fred L) First Saturday in June (National Trails Day) or National Night Out in August
(Mary) June is when the majority of hikers are coming through Duncannon, hikers could do a hiker presentation/panel
(Karen) Event should be about a broad vision of Duncannon as a trail community
Involvement of Boy Scouts and School groups (Robert P.: Scouts would be interested)
Potential coordination with Susquehanna Sojourn river trips (engage Susquehanna River Trail Association – inquire as to the Sojourn schedule)
Communication plan for A.T. Community designation – Engaging Hershey/Harrisburg Visitors Bureau important (work to increase the promotion of event and greater promotion Duncannon as a destination)
HHVB – need to be a paying partner, Rick Dunlap is the contact
(Barbara) SATC and Keystone Trails Association could lead a hike and float trip
(Gwen - PA Audubon) Audubon could lead hikes if scheduled in the fall or spring during migration seasons

Apple Tree AlleyWalk

Overview of Apple Tree AlleyWalk project and planning process from Tom G.
(Mike K. – Tri-County) Rails-to-Trails Involvement? (Contact is Pat Tomes)
(Mike P. – DCNR) Economic Development is key to making this project significant – projects like this in other communities have seen great impacts in filling downtown storefronts/property values rising
April application for DCNR funding – Borough needs to submit an application, motorized portions can’t be funded by DCNR
The challenge is local buy-in, a local advocate who keeps close tabs on funding availability and has the project lined up to receive the funding (i.e. funds raised for local match)
(Mike K. – Tri-County) Metropolitan Planning Organizations (Tri-County) help program the federal transportation funds – connect with Perry County representatives, the annual Tri-County allotment is roughly $900,000
Apple Tree Alley is first in line to receive funding, but the funds are programmed in advance – all funds are programmed until the 2013 fiscal year
Transportation Enhancement program’s future is uncertain, the federal highway bill and accompanying funding has expired
A 20% match (of non-federal funds) is required, recently the emphasis has been on a lot of small projects
Emphasis on the local advocate as well
(Robert P.) Can in-kind donations count as a match for TE funding? Local businesses could contribute materials (trees for planting, gravel, etc) or labor. Borough could potentially pave and do some construction
(Jerry) Want to make sure the ATC/Mountain Club of Maryland (MCM) supports the re-reroute through Apple Tree Alley, Starts with the approval of MCM
(Jason – Tri-County/Perry County) What businesses are supportive?
(Tom G.) Businesses are in support, Orrstown Bank may agree to participation
(Kim M.) Businesses contacted were supported, unsure exactly how to get involved
(Mike P.) What role is the ATC going to play?
(Karen, Kim W.) ATC can help facilitate, Duncannon should be the driver
(Fred & Tom) Would like to see ATC/Susquehanna Greenway/Main Line Canal Greenway work together to assist Duncannon
(Trish C.) Susquehanna Greenway River Towns initiative – planning driving tour kiosk with panels options available for Main Line Canal Greenway and Appalachian Trail
(Fred) Would like to see examples of similar projects from other towns

Sub-committees to organize:

A.T. Community Designation sub-committee

Complete application – collect support documentation, draft and submit application to ATC Mid-Atlantic Regional Office before September 1^st, 2011
COORDINATE ADVISORY COMMITTEE:
- Maintain list of sub-committees, contacts, organizations/volunteers who have expressed interest in helping
- Facilitate communication between sub-committees, send Advisory Committee updates as to what has been happening/what needs to happen
Designation event-planning – SEE A.T. Community EVENT PLANNING GUIDE for more detail (if you did not receive copy at meeting, email Kim McKee and she will send PDF)
- Decide on when the event will be held, THEME(s) for event (i.e. conservation, outdoor recreation or “trails,” Duncannon heritage & arts, etc.)
- Brainstorm/Research A.T. Community designation events and/or similarly-themed events in other towns
- Outreach to elected local, state & federal officials for support, community groups and regional partners that could be involved, part of programming
- Develop communications plan – coordinate with Tourism Promotion sub-committee to publicize
  - Collect information on local media contacts, local bloggers, Borough newsletter, newsletters of partner organizations
  - Outreach via social media (local facebook groups, twitter, etc.)
  - Create/distribute fliers to promote event

Apple Tree AlleyWalk sub-committee

Create and keep updated an online list/database of potential funding options, including upcoming deadlines and contact information for program reps
Engage contacts at state and regional agencies to monitor funding opportunities – have project included in state, regional or Perry County plans:
- DCNR
- Tri-County RPC/Transportation Enhancements
- Perry County CDBG Funds (administered through Tri-County - Eliz Wimmer is contact)
- Appalachian Regional Commission
- DCED/Keystone Communities Program
- Private Foundations
- Other
Prepare grant applications
Fundraising for local match – local businesses donations and in-kind donations, additional public sources, Borough funds and labor, private foundations
It looks as though local match may include in-kind contributions: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/bikeped/bp-broch.htm
Contact additional advocacy groups to gauge interest in project – Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, PA Walks and Bikes, etc.
Build support with elected officials – State Rep. Mark Keller serves on policy board of Metropolitan Planning Organization that makes the final decisions on TE funding

Tourism Promotion & Business Outreach sub-committee

Gauge interest in organizing “Friends” group through this Advisory Committee or Duncannon Revitalization organization with 501c3 status – a group that would actively work with businesses, Chamber, Perry County Arts and community groups to promote Duncannon businesses, recreation opportunities and amenities
Create list of and engage businesses interested in being involved with A.T. Community events and/or Apple Tree Alley whether via letters of support, donations, event participation, or interest in joint-promotion of local businesses (coordinate with Perry County Chamber)
Collect information on case studies of projects like Apple Tree Alley in similar communities – with a focus on the ECONOMIC impacts, create print materials to distribute (or web)
Explore options for a web presence for the Borough of Duncannon targeted to hikers, visitors, businesses looking to relocate (example: http://www.damascus.org/ or http://www.jimthorpe.org/)

Community Outreach and Youth Engagement sub-committee

Create list of community groups in greater Duncannon Area and contact to inform of A.T. Community designation plans and Apple Tree Alleywalk project – ask how they would potentially like to be involved, get ideas
Lead local hikes and trailwork projects that start and/or end in Duncannon – potential active recruitment of Duncannon residents
Publicize Trails to Every Classroom participation and projects
Potentially plan events on Apple Tree AlleyWalk corridor to promote usage and COMMUNITY OWNERSHIP of corridor (art projects, bike rides, sled-races, fundraising walks/runs, programming for kids, community plantings, etc. – smaller projects that build interest in and awareness of corridor as an asset to the community) – check on LEGAL issues of corridor-ownership with Borough first
Explore opportunities to re-route the A.T. through Apple Tree Alley