SJMA goes to Washington D.C.

Susan Bryson (Executive Director) and Ruth Lambert (Cultural Program Director) were invited to Washington D.C. on May 12th, 2008, to attend the unveiling of the new "Preserve America Stewards" Initiative. This new initiative is a recognition and designation program for existing programs at the state, tribal, local, or regional level that have demonstrated a successful use of volunteer time and commitment in order to help care for our cultural heritage. Evidently the work that went into the formation of this new Initiative was inspired by the volunteer efforts within our Cultural Site Stewardship Program.

The event, originally scheduled to be held on the East lawn of the White House was moved indoors as the result of a torrential Nor'easter that pummeled D.C. with nearly 6" of rain in a 24 hour period. However, Susan and Ruth were not disappointed. The nearest "indoor" facility was the White House itself and the presentation was made in the East Room of the East Wing by First Lady Laura Bush. While President Bush was also on the agenda, they were informed in the morning that he would be touring the devastation caused by the recent tornados and would be a no-show.

Following the First Lady's announcement the crowd of about sixty people was escorted into the East Wing Dining Room for refreshments of cookies and lemonade. Young men and women adorning full military dress uniforms lined the dining room and hallway while the Marine band played on. It was an intoxicating experience and one that will be treasured by your representatives from SJMA.

After a reluctant departure from the White House, Susan and Ruth were treated to another reception at the Willard International Hotel. At the gathering Susan and Ruth had the opportunity to speak with John Nau, the Chairman of the Advisory Council for Historic Preservation, the agency that oversees the Preserve America Program. Mr. Nau recalled the trip he and Deputy Secretary Lynn Scarlet made to Durango in the fall of 2006 and recounted his experience meeting some of our Site Stewards and affectionately said that "SJMA started the whole thing" ~ meaning the work our volunteers do on public land should be recognized at a national level.

Susan and Ruth were very excited to be a part of this event. It was an incredibly humbling experience and they were honored to accept the opportunity to be recognized on behalf of the volunteers and members of SJMA. Kudos to all of you.