(Photo courtesy of Oregon State Parks & Rec)
What’s old is new again at Pilot Butte. Twenty-five years ago Pilot Butte State Park began working closely with civic leaders, businesses, organizations, and individuals through a group called Pilot Butte Partners. Many of the things people love about the park are the result of those collaborations. Last year the park realized a new way was needed and the Butte Thing was created.
On the surface, the Butte Thing is a one day volunteer effort that accomplishes a list of major improvements in the park. In reality, it takes nearly six months of effort for all of this to happen in just one day. A key ingredient is the “Press Thing” taking place at the Pilot Butte picnic shelter at 11am on February 10.
Here are some highlights of what will happen at the Press Thing:
• Rebound Physical Therapy will present money they raised at the Pilot Butte Challenge last September.
• Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will announce a $2,000 contribution to the Butte Thing along a lot of other support.
• An eight week Instagram contest will be announced.
• Volunteer organizations like CORK (Central Oregon Running Klub) that have already signed up will be recognized.
• Key sponsors already on board will be present including Beervana TV.
• The “mystery” title sponsor will be announced.
• The exclusive “Beervana Butte Bash” after-party will be described. This will be one of the best parties in Central Oregon in 2016. Only volunteers and other Butte Thing VIPs are invited.
• Ways for other businesses, organizations, and individuals to get involved will be described.
This modern twist on a tried and true collaboration between state government and the community has everyone excited. Carol Smith (also known as The Butte Lady) says, “Pilot Butte needs a facelift. It will be getting one at the First Annual Butte Thing on April 23.” Please join us at the PRESS THING on Wednesday, February 10 to learn more.
An updated copy of this press release will be handed out at the PRESS THING. It will include a current and complete list of everyone involved up to that point in time.
About Pilot Butte Summit Seekers
Pilot Butte Summit Seekers sees itself as a catalyst for the type of community involvement that has been transforming Pilot Butte for over 20 years. No single organization, person, or business can do it all. Pilot Butte is a perfect example of amazing things that can happen via grassroots efforts and government cooperation. Businesses, organizations, and citizens who want to help Pilot Butte can get involved by calling (541) 604-8150or emailing us at bendSMB@gmail.com . Our website is being updated to make it more mobile friendly. It can be found at www.pilotbutte.org .
