Crater Lake National Park Centennial ‘Let the celebration begin’ 1902-2002
Herald and News
Klamath Falls, Oregon
May 21, 2002
By LEE JUILLERAT
Let the celebration begin.
Wednesday marks the 100th anniversary of the creation of Crater Lake National Park. The birthday of the park, the nation’s sixth-oldest, will be celebrated statewide.
Superintendent Chuck Lundy will announce the formal start to a year-long centennial “True Blue Celebration” on Wednesday in the state capitol in Salem.
Gov. John Kitzhaber will join in, declaring Wednesday as Crater Lake National Park Day in Oregon during ceremonies in Salem.
And, closer to home, a birthday reception is planned beginning at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at Crater Lake Lodge for all visitors, employees and park friends. Entry to the park will be free with special “arrowhead” cookies. People at the park can also have cards and letters affixed with a special May 22 centennial postmark at the park post office.
Lundy said the celebration is intended to honor the creation of the park, and to look toward the park’s next century.
” ‘True Blue Forever’ is not just an opportunity to look back on and honor the park’s rich history, but also a time to focus on the vision for its future,” said Lundy. “Our vision is to preserve and protect the natural environment and beauty of the park for generations to come as well as promote the unique educational opportunities it offers.”
Kitzhaber is also emphasizing the importance of protecting and conserving the lake and its surroundings.
“Crater Lake National Park is a fascinating destination for tourists and travelers from across the nation and, as such, plays a vital role in the state’s economy,” said Kitzhaber. “But more importantly, the park is an 180,000-acre outdoor classroom for students of every age. This is why we must focus on the preservation of this most cherished natural resource.”
The “True Blue Forever” Centennial theme refers to the park’s legendary clarity. Through the coming year the celebration, funded in part through a $125,000 gift from Peter and Julie Stott of Portland, will include educational, cultural and commemorative activities.
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