Volunteer of the Year

Joy Fernbacher

          The Paulinskill Valley Trail Committee nominates Joy Fernbacher as volunteer of the year for 2009. Joy is a staunch, steadfast supporter of the beautiful Paulinskill Valley Trail. She is a founding member of the trail committee, which formed in 1983 to aid the state in its purchase of the NY S&W RR right-of-way for a multi-use trail.

          Joy worked tirelessly to promote the Paulinskill Valley Trail and helped to secure its purchase in 1992. She served as longtime secretary of the committee; brought in new members, including horse enthusiasts, and organizations interested in preserving the trail; displayed information at fairs and other events; and circulated petitions for people to sign in favor of the state buying the trail. Joy was the first to have “Save the Trail” t-shirts produced.

          After the state purchase of the trail, Joy’s interest in our multi-use state park trail remained strong, and she continued to be an active member of the committee. She continued as secretary for a number of years and procured some of the programs for the quarterly meetings. In addition, she volunteered for other activities when needed and opened her home for meetings.

          In recent years, Joy has been taking the opportunity to travel, so she cannot attend all the meetings, as she has in the past; however, she continues to be an enthusiastic supporter in all the various activities undertaken by the trail committee. Joy still finds time to help out when she’s around.

          The PVTC is honored to recognize Joy for her many accomplishments in preserving the Paulinskill Valley Trail. Thank you, Joy.