TREC 20th Anniversary Celebration: A Legacy of Stewardship
On May 1st the Tom Ridge Environmental Center Foundation and Presque Isle Partnership came together to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the opening of the Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC). TREC was first conceived in the 1950's by the architect of Pennsylvania's modern state park system, Maurice K. Goddard, as a museum and education center that would convey the geological and ecological significance of Presque Isle. That vision was reborn in 1998 when the Center was imagined as a world class facility for educators, researchers, students of all ages and the millions of annual visitors to the peninsula. In May 2006, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center opened as a fully realized dream for Erie: a place where visitors could learn about the wonders of the Great Lakes; students could be immersed in hands on environmental education programs; tourists could gather information about other local destinations; and scientists could study and collaborate on research projects.
To commenerate this milestone and celebrate all things Presque Isle, the Tom Ridge Environmental Center Foundation and Presque Isle Partnership came together to honor two families who have had incredible impact on how Presque Isle looks and functions today: The Tom and Michele Ridge Family and The Guerrein Family. Don Guerrein founded the Presque Isle Partnership in 1994 to help PA DCNR carry out projects and improvements that could not be completed through the Commonwealth budget. Don's wife, Paula, started the first gift shop and their legacy carries on through the involvement of their children and granddaughter who currently serves on the board of directors for the Partnership. The TREC Foundation was founded in 2003 leading up to the opening of TREC to help enhance education, science, research and the visitor experience at TREC and Presque Isle. While the building bears the name of Governor Ridge, the family legacy of involvement extends to several family members past and current service on the board of directors and past service on the Presque Isle Advisory Committee. These two families have committed generational time and resources to the betterment of Presque Isle State Park, and by extension the quality of life in our region.
Event proceeds benefit the missions of the TREC Foundation and Presque Isle Partnership, enhancing education, conservation and visitor experiences.
What a privilege it was to look out at a room full of people who love this place as much as we do.Thank you to the nearly 250 guests from across the Commonwealth who joined the TREC Foundation and Presque Isle Partnership to celebrate 20 years of the Tom Ridge Environmental Center. From honoring the Ridge and Guerrein families, to raising more than $30,000 for education and conservation, it was an evening we won't forget.Watch the tribute video below:It was a delight to showcase the talents and tastes of local vendors who made the night absolutely delicious: Make It Fabulous Catering & Special Events, Lavery Brewing Company, Mazza Wines, Blind Tiger Spirit-Free Cocktails, and Romolo Chocolates. Thank you for making the evening so special!
