[at-l] SOT: Where would you party/ruck?

[ellen at clinic.net (Bob C.)]

>"...I'd rather contribute the money to a more lasting gift to all hikers."

Lasting gifts have a way of keeping on giving. Only a lottery win would make me
even moderately wealthy at this stage of my life. My wife and in laws were less
than enthused when I was persuaded to give our 23 acre woodlot to help protect a
small undeveloped pond. (Purchase price 30 years ago, $1,150. Appraised value
$32,000)

But the gift persuaded a neighbor to give his 23 acres. The two gifts have now
triggered a state grant to help purchase 46 acres on the opposite end of the
pond.

In retrospect there is nothing that I've done in the past decade that gives me
more satisfaction. No number of parties, and nothing I could buy for myself,
could ever equal it.

After I leave this earth, my name will quickly fade away. But it's nice to think
from time to time, that a little bit of the earth I left behind will be enjoyed
for as long as property laws are respected.

Weary, who's off to set up a display at the ATC Conference for our new Maine
Appalachian Trail Land Trust. Those who wish to share a bit in the joys of
giving for the future can send a contribution to MAT Land Trust, PO Box 325,
Yarmouth, Maine 04096. BTW, we just got a $25,000 foundation grant to hire at
least part time professional help.