Floored!

[KD Talbot]

Well, life has it's ups and downs, so here's one I just experienced moments ago.

I picked up the new Windswept, "Wow! That really is my photo on the cover!"

Elation!

So, I sit down to read it. Not more than a few pages in I'm reading Scott Henley's monthly contribution when suddenly I realize what the words are saying to me:

"After serving MWO in a number of roles for more than 20 years, Dr. Peter Crane is leaving his post as Director of Programs."

Devastation!

I have to say though I have not spent nearly as much time getting to know Peter as much as I have other Obs folks, not near as much as I would like, he has always been a friendly and familiar face and one I will always associate with my passion for the Obs. I would even go so far as to say he is the face of the Obs, though there may be others more deserving.

His passion for all that is Mount Washington has surely rubbed off on me and for the rest of my life when I think of the Obs, or Mount Washington itself, I will always remember Peter with great fondness. A truly remarkable fellow, I hope I will get to see him this weekend at STP.

Here's to Peter Crane, the face of the MWO!

KDT

[Brad]

I second those emotions. Several folks who have been on EduTrips have said they were amazed at what Peter knows about the mountains and everything around and about them.

[KD Talbot]

I have no doubt that Michelle Cruz and Bill Grenfell will be apt replacements for Peter, but to me anyway, it's sort of like trying to replace the Old Man of the Mountains. There just is no replacing him.

Good luck to everyone, especially Peter, in their new endeavors.

KDT

[JimS]

There are probably a very few people who know more about the history, geography and culture of the White Mountains than Peter. But it is his willingness to share his knowledge with anyone in competant and engaging stories that really sets him apart. Every time he lead a trip up, I always learned something new, and always enjoyed his company.

Certainly I wish Peter the best, but also doubt he is going far. I sincerely hope he uses his time to pen a book (or three).

So simply, Peter, thanks for all that you brought to my mountain experience, and I hope to keep seeing you around the mountains!

[mtruman]

I'll add my voice of sadness about Peter's departure to the others. I was fortunate enough to meet him for the first time at last year's STP when he gave my wife and I the tour of the OBS. Having read more about his accomplishments and knowledge over the time since them I've come to understand how important his presence and participation has been to the OBS. Nobody can stay on forever and I wish Peter and his family the best in their future life both in and out of the OBS. And if he happens to write a book someday as Jim suggests I'll be one of the first in line for a copy!

[Charlie]

i had the privilege of spending 2 days with Peter on a EDU trip and like you all said he knows the whites like the back of his hand . when we went for a day hike we all listened to him talk when we stopped along the way and asked questions ,he had a response to all of them .
i had a great time and would love to do it again ,but it will not top the trip i had with Peter

Hats of to you Peter for a great job ,you will be missed .enjoy time where ever it may take you .

charlie