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I had the priviledge of attending the Massachusetts Jr. Conservation Camp graduation ceremony in "CHESTERFIELD" today. In attendance, Jim Wallace, Executive Director of GOAL, Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife Director, Wayne MacCallum, Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife Commissioner, Mary Griffin, Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife Chief Information & Education, Ellie Horwitz and many others.
Gerry Lemire and I recieved recognition and was awarded a plaque for our efforts in coordinating a petition with the intent to save the camp and support the program.
The closing ceremony started off with a Conservation Prayer headed by Ellie Horwitz followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. State leaders gave inspiring life lesson speeches. After the speeches were finished students were awarded trophies and small tokens, then by section each student were handed their paperwork and congratulated.
It was quite evident close friendships had developed over the two weeks. The students were high spirited and outwardly displayed support of one another.
It is my hope that this valuable educational program will continue to recieve support so as it will continue to thrive in the future. The Worcester County League Of Sportsmen,(WCL) offers a full scholarship to the camp to three students each year. Beginning in January age appropiate students may apply for a scholarship by writing a letter to the WCL explaining why they would like to go. WCL votes on who will be offered a scholarship based on what is written. For more information about the camp please see: http://www.juniorconservationcamp.org/
Best Regards
Nancy Wentworth
