Grassroots organization launches campaign to create the Craggy Wilderness and National Scenic Area
I HEART PISGAH is leading a campaign to create the Craggy Wilderness and National Scenic area, which will permanently protect 16,000 acres of old-growth forests, headwaters, world-class trails, and panoramic vistas only 15 miles from downtown Asheville, the organization said in an email.
Craggy is one of the most biologically diverse forests in the country, the organization’s website says. It protects dozens of rare species and thousands of acres of old-growth forest. If efforts are successful, Craggy could become just the eleventh national scenic area in the country.
Body of missing Appalachian Trail hiker found in Dawson County, GA
The body of Eddie Noonkester, missing on the Appalachian Trail since Friday, has been found about a mile away from mile marker 3. WSB-TV reports that Noonkester was on the trail near Amicalola Falls when he became disoriented and called a friend for help. That friend called authorities, who said they successfully pinged Noonkester’s phone but could not get in touch with him.
About 130 people searched for Noonkester, and rescue crews recovered his body on Wednesday night. Officials plan to investigate whether Noonkester suffered a medical emergency on the trail. Foul play is not suspected.
The White House Easter Egg Roll is now open
Recreation.gov has opened the lottery for the White House Easter Egg Roll. Winners can visit the South Lawn of the White House for a celebration of games, live entertainment, and the traditional egg roll. The lottery is open through Monday, February 24 and lottery results will be announced March 4.
According to the Recreation.gov website, the White House Easter Egg Roll is a tradition that dates back to 1878. Originally, kids in Washington, DC would go to Capitol Hill every Monday after Easter for egg rolling. Members of Congress grew tired of the crowds and passed an Act of Congress prohibiting egg rolling on Capitol grounds. The event was then moved to the White House.
