Get to Know Calendar Winners See Capitol Christmas Tree at Their Congratulation Ceremony

  • Brian Harris, Public Affairs Officer, Cleveland National Forest
Photograph of several youth, one holding a certificate, standing in front of a screen that reads '2012 Get to Know.'

Robert Bateman "Get to Know" calendar contest winners.

The 2012 “Get to Know” calendar is a wonderful collection of wildlife art, poems, and photography that was drawn, written and clicked by children from all over the country. There were several winning entries from kids here in California. The contest congratulation event took place in early November at the Gene Autry National Center and Museum in Los Angeles and was a huge success.

Sixteen of the winning kids were there in person, with one traveling from as far away as Florida. It was very nice to see the kids receive their prizes and be recognized for their artistic efforts. Speaking at the event were Forest Supervisors Will Metz (Cleveland) and Tom Contreras (Angeles), and Deputy Forest Supervisor and long-time program advocate Marty Dumpis, also from the Angeles National Forest.

The event coincided with the arrival of the Capitol Christmas Tree on site. Families were able to attend the congratulation event, see the Christmas tree as it made its journey to Washington DC, sign the banners, and receive Smokey Bear give away items.

Also speaking at the event was Stanislaus Forest Supervisor Susan Skalski who talked about the significance of having the Christmas tree come from the Pacific Southwest Region. There was a very strong Forest Service presence at the event and we had the opportunity to talk with hundreds of kids and their families.