Unlike most environmental organizations, the Sierra Club is truly grassroots. At the local level the Allegheny Group is managed by a nine-member Executive Committee. Elected in December for two-year terms on the ExCom are: Gwen Chute, Claudia Kirkpatrick, Cassie McCrae, Matt Peters, and Chris Shepherd. Congratulations are in order.

An expression of appreciation is in order for retiring ExCom members Phil Coleman, Jim Kleissler, Mike LaMark, and Marilyn Skolnick. After being a long-time advocate for wild woods and closing dirty coal-fired power plants, Phil has moved to Florida. Jim will remain an advisor on all things related to forest protection, and Mike will continue to be active on the Endangered Species Action Team as well as help with graphic design projects. After many years as an experienced activist for clean air, sensible transportation policies, and better land use planning, Marilyn has finally decided to slow down – at least just a little. Heart-felt thanks to all four.