To the editor:

The Friends of St Regis Mountain Fire Tower celebrated the tower’s 100th birthday on Sunday, Aug. 5. The Friends group, along with several other organizations, have worked cooperatively and tirelessly over the last several years to restore the tower, which was opened to the public on Sept. 1, 2016.

We need to thank many people and organizations. The Lake Clear Lodge and Retreat hosted our celebration at their beautiful resort on the shores of Lake Clear, which includes one of the best views of the tower. Ernest and Cathy Hohmeyer have been great supporters of St. Regis Mountain Fire Tower and our efforts. The Lodge will also be hosting a “Lighting of the Tower” party on Sept. 1. See http://lodgeonlakeclear.com/events/ for more information.

Many thanks to our guest speakers including Ernest Hohmeyer, Assemblyman Billy Jones, Department of Environmental Conservation Region 5 Supervisor of Natural Resources Tom Martin, who presented a commemorative plaque, DEC Forest Ranger Lt. Julie Harjung, retired DEC Forest Ranger Joe Rupp, Director of the New York Forest Fire Lookout Association Laurie Rankin, entertainment by the Birch Boys, and the many guests who attended and support the Friends of St. Regis Mountain Fire Tower Association.

A special thank you to Peter Crowley and the Adirondack Daily Enterprise for the report of this event, and help in keeping the public informed of the FOSRMFT’s efforts.

Lastly, the celebration is almost over, but there is still work to be done. Cross braces are being replaced, the footings need stabilizing, interpretive panels need to be completed and installed, as well as painting and other routine maintenance to help preserve the tower. For more information, please visit our website, http://www.friendsofstregis.org, to learn more about our mission and ways you can help.

Sincerely,

Nancy LaBombard

and the FOSRMFT board

Saranac Lake