Awards from Friends of Radnor Lake
Each spring, Friends of Radnor Lake celebrates the bold efforts of citizens who preserve and protect the environment. The Friends of Radnor Lake Environmental Award was conceived in 2001 by John Netherton, a local author and nature photographer that the Nashville Scene deemed “a sort of mayor of Radnor Lake.”
The Ansley Family
2008
Commissioner James Fyke
2007
Governor Phil Bredesen
2006
Kay and John Cheek
2005
Governor Winfield Dunn
2004
Ron Turner
2003
Mack Prichard
2002
Mayor Warren Wilkerson
2001
Senator Douglas Henry
At the time of his death in March 2001, John was president of the Friends of Radnor Lake. Netherton was a passionate voice for flora and fauna, and he sought a way to honor individuals for their contributions to protecting, for perpetuity, the natural resources of Radnor Lake.
The following persons have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made notable, voluntary contributions in conserving Radnor Lake’s precious resources and building public-private relationships. These leaders, working on behalf of wildlife and our “wild place,” continue to amaze and inspire us.
2009: The Ansley Family
Sue Ansley accepts the Environmental Award on behalf of her late husband, Jack Ansley III and Mr. & Mrs. Jack Ansley, Jr. more
The story of the Ansley family is one of quiet generosity and true humility. With a desire for little or no publicity, the Ansleys gifted Friends of Radnor Lake with a lovely ranch style home situated near the southern boundary of the natural area on Lakeview Drive.
Mrs. Mildred Ansley, along with her husband, Jack, Jr., was devoted to birding, hiking, and enjoying the retreat of Radnor Lake State Natural Area. She passed away before she could give her home to FORL. Her son, Jack knew how she felt. But he passed away, too, before the paperwork was complete. That left Jack’s wife, Sue to decide whether to sell the house or honor her husband and mother-in-law’s wishes. She didn’t think twice!
So this year, Sue Ansley accepted the Friends of Radnor Lake 9th annual Environmental Award on behalf of her late husband, Jack Ansley III and Mr. & Mrs. Jack Ansley, Jr. This gift is one that keeps on giving. FORL has recently leased the home to park ranger, Leslie Anne Rawlings, who was driving many miles each way to work at Radnor. Leslie Anne brings her knowledge and skills as a ranger to a neighborhood of people who are a close knit group dedicated to looking out for one another, and for the interests of the nearby natural area.
Commissioner James Fyke and Friends of Radnor Lake president Ann Tidwell. more
Commissioner Fyke is a powerful protector of our land, air and water resources. When he was Metro Parks Director, Nashville's system increased from 57 to 100 parks and the amount of acreage increased from 5,800 to 10,237. Fyke brought a renewed focus on parks, greenways and trails through a real commitment to adding and expanding green space wherever possible. More than 2,500 acres of parks and greenways were added in Metro.
During his service as Deputy Commissioner of Parks and Conservation, Jim oversaw the reopening of 14 state parks and facilities, helped develop Tennessee's Five Year State Recreation Plan, and spearheaded the Governor's Land Conservation Initiative.
Under his leadership as Commissioner, Tennessee State Parks was selected to receive the National Recreation and Parks Association's 2007 Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. This prestigious recognition is the highest honor a park system can receive within the industry.
Commissioner Fyke also helped the Bredesen Administration and General Assembly establish the Tennessee Heritage Conservation Trust Fund, an important tool for promoting conservation partnerships between public and private parties that protect priority lands and unique natural resources in Tennessee.
Governor Phil Bredesen speaks with stained-glass artist Doris Dumont about his award. more
Friends of Radnor Lake gathered on April 20 to present their 7th annual Environmental Award to Governor Phil Bredesen at Radnor Lake’s Netherton Point.
The governor has made land conservation a priority, and in his first term the state protected more than 30,000 acres of ecologically and culturally significant land for future generations.
“In Tennessee,” Bredesen acknowledged, “we are blessed with some of the most beautiful and fruitful land and water on the face of the earth. If we are diligent in protecting that land and creating special new places, future generations and visitors to our state, alike, will have hundreds of thousands of acres of protected land for their use… for hiking and picnicking and hunting and fishing, and just for enjoying with their own families the beauty of God's creation here in Tennessee.”“Recognizing Governor Bredesen’s significant conservation achievements as a public and private citizen across two decades is a fitting way to celebrate State Natural Areas Week in Tennessee,” declared Jim Fyke, Environment and Conservation Commissioner. “From his role in creating the Land Trust for Tennessee to his leadership in establishing the Tennessee Heritage Conservation Trust Fund, Phil Bredesen is making a real difference for the people and special places in our state.”
Kathy and Kay Cheek more
The Cheek family home neighbors Radnor Lake to the north on Clonmel Road. Recognizing the beauty of the area, Kay and John Cheek wanted their forests and wildlife to stay undeveloped and free. After first considering a conservation easement to protect their land, they finally chose to sell part of their property to Friends of Radnor Lake —at a generous price considerably below market value. This awesome gesture enabled 60 acres of beautiful ridge tops and pristine valleys to be protected evermore. John and Kay Cheek have forever changed the boundary between city and wilderness—and we are all much the richer. Dr. John Hancock Cheek died at his home on February 20, 2002. Kay continues to be a grand neighbor and friend to Radnor Lake.
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“There wouldn’t be a natural area at Radnor Lake without Winfield Dunn,” explained Ann Tidwell, Friends of Radnor Lake president. “Without his support, this beautiful treasure would be just another residential development.” Governor Dunn served as governor from 1971 to 1975 and played a key role in preventing residential development of Radnor Lake. He not only lent his support to the cause of preserving the property publicly but also worked behind the scenes to help, calling the developer personally to negotiate the sale and committing state dollars to assist with the purchase.
In 1971, Governor Dunn also signed the Natural Areas Preservation Act into law, a key piece of legislation that has preserved wilderness lands across Tennessee. Governor Dunn made conservation a high priority throughout his time in office by working to preserve natural areas such as Radnor Lake and Savage Gulf and to expand the State Park system. State Naturalist Mack Prichard declared, “We were able to accomplish more during his time as governor than we have before or since. He was a quick study and a good listener, and he always did the right thing. I can’t think of a more deserving person to receive this award.”
2004: Ron Turner
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In 1993, a cell company leased the right to build a cell tower atop the hills adjacent to the lake. Concerned, Friends of Radnor Lake filed a lawsuit. Many voiced concern in a strong public outcry, and amazingly, Cellular One built elsewhere. Metro Councilman Ron Turner played an instrumental role in assuring this outcome.
In 2002, Turner and Amanda McClendon sponsored a bill that would limit vehicular access on Otter Creek Road. The impact of this bill was that the road became a safe zone for pedestrians and much less of an erosion problem to the lakeshore.
Ray Waddle wrote about Turner in Presbyterian Voice, describing him as a “lawyer, father, Presbyterian, poet” who retired after eight years of service on the Nashville Metro Council. Waddle quoted Turner as he reflected: “It’s an honor to be elected to represent your neighbors in a democracy — the highest honor. The system works better than you might think. I learned to listen to people. It’s a lot like being in the ministry. People just need to be heard.”
That same “listening perspective” that Turner celebrates helped save Radnor Lake from an eyesore and created a safer walkway through the heart of the park.
2003: Mack Prichard
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When he moved to Nashville in 1964, Mack Prichard discovered the scenic retreat of Radnor Lake, then a privately owned nature preserve in danger of being commercially developed.
“I couldn’t believe such a beautiful place was so close to town,” said Prichard. “With its high hills and pristine beauty, Radnor is a Walden Pond of inspiration.”
FORL’s president Ann Tidwell added, “We are so thankful for his tireless efforts on Radnor’s behalf and are thrilled to honor him for helping preserve this Nashville treasure.”
In 2006, Gov. Phil Bredesen signed a Senate resolution commending Mack’s half century as “The Conservation Conscience” of Tennessee, conferring on him the title Tennessee State Park Naturalist Emeritus “at such time as he decides to retire.”
Mack Prichard began his work at age 16, as a seasonal naturalist at Shelby Forest State Park near Memphis. He headed the archeology division in 1971, and then became Tennessee’s first state naturalist. Unique, charismatic, inspired, and inspirational—Mack Prichard is “A Tennessee Treasure,” like the beautiful state to which has dedicated his life.
2002: Mayor Warren Wilkerson
City of Oak Hill Mayor Warren Wilkerson, center, is joined by Senator Douglas Henry, his wife Suzanne Wilkerson, and daughter Peggy. more
One of the original founders of The City of Oak Hill, Warren Wilkerson saw the preservation of the island of wilderness at the heart of the city as a gift to future generations and a treasure to all citizens. About Radnor Lake, Mayor Wilkerson once remarked, “Even if one house had been built, things would have ended.” In 1973, he and other Oak Hill commissioners voted unanimously to donate $10,000 to help save Radnor Lake from drainage and development. Subsequently, during his tenure as mayor of the City Oak Hill and in cooperation with Friends of Radnor Lake, he continued to help facilitate numerous land acquisitions. Mayor Wilkerson passed away in 2006 but will be remembered always as an outstanding champion of Radnor Lake State Natural Area.
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For his three decades of commitment to conservation issues, Senator Douglas Henry received the inaugural Environmental Award. In 1973, Senator Henry worked unwaveringly to be certain that Radnor Lake was named Tennessee’s first State Natural Area. Throughout his career as a public servant, Senator Henry has been involved in a variety of civic causes. Central to his good work are his strong feelings about protecting land for public use and preserving a piece of Nashville’s heritage. He has continued to work to look after the lake and help the funding necessary to support the protection of the natural area. When it comes to giving back to his community, Senator Henry has just about done it all.
Leadership Award
In addition to the Environmental Award, Friends of Radnor Lake created The Blue Heron Leadership Award. The blue heron symbolizes the notion that “things are good,” and it is known as a security bird, an overseer, a barometer of the ecosystem. Its presence shows that little has been done by human hands to disturb the environment: the goal of a natural area, the goal of Radnor Lake. To date, five very special citizens have been presented with the Blue Heron Award.
Chuck Robinson
2007
Mike Campbell
President of Big Dog Properties
2006
The City of Oak Hill / Mayor Ray Throckmorton and The City of Forest Hills / Mayor Charlie Evers
2003
Carrie McElyea
2009: Chuck Robinson
REI’s Chuck Robinson and Ranger Steve Ward. more
“Today’s recipient of the Radnor Lake Blue Heron award is Chuck Robinson,” affirmed FORL Executive Director, Emmie Thomas. “Chuck is a passionate person, passionate about the environment and the world in which he lives. He is humble, respectful, faithful, and sensitive. He is a doer and a leader, and he embodies one of my favorite quotes by Gandhi: ‘In a gentle way, you can shake the world.’ In our own little corner of the planet, we feel like Chuck is doing just that.
Emmie explained, “REI’s mission is to inspire, educate and outfit people for a lifetime of outdoor adventure and stewardship. That’s really what Chuck does as an environmental partner with Radnor. We have worked together on the Junior Ranger program, Radnor’s summer internship program that gives high school and college students an opportunity to try on the life of a ranger for two weeks. He has floated the Buffalo with us, cleaning miles and miles of river as he goes. Chuck has worked with Radnor during National Trails Day, helping promote trail building at the natural area, and in fact, bringing the idea of participating in this national event to Radnor.
Most recently, Radnor has received funding from REI to promote volunteerism at the park. We have a monthly Volunteer Day that is promoted at the REI stores, and Chuck not only promotes, but also participates in the dirty work of hauling mulch, building bridges and repairing trails. With the funding, we have been able to revamp our display and promote volunteerism through signage, new kiosks and our website. Corporate groups, school groups, scouts and folks like you and me are volunteering and are feeling a sense of giving back and a sense of belonging at Radnor.”
Ann Tidwell explains that Friends of Radnor Lake has been protecting the natural area since 1973 — chiefly by acquiring important ridge tops and valleys in the watershed. Many Friends and many neighbors have helped. Good neighbors have been willing sellers, happy to see their land preserved forever. Especially good neighbors like John and Kay Cheek have sold their land at prices far below market value. Especially good friend Mike Campbell, owner of Big Dog Properties, gave thirteen acres to Radnor Lake. Mike is the developer who bought the forty-five acre Enoch Tract to the east along Otter Creek Road. Only eleven homes will be built, and a retaining pond will help protect downstream neighbors. Best of all, about a third of the original property, including the hillside nearest the Natural Area, has been deeded to Friends of Radnor Lake helping to protect the peace, the view, the natural wildlife corridors, and the vital water quality of the lake.
2006: The City of Oak Hill/ Mayor Ray Throckmorton and The City of Forest Hills/ Mayor Charlie Evers more
In 2006, Mayor Ray Throckmorton of Oak Hill and Mayor Charlie Evers of Forest Hills were recognized as visionaries committed to ensuring greater awareness of the fragility of the natural area and the impact of homes developed around the borders.
FORL presented the award to Mayor Throckmorton for his courageous leadership, personal generosity, and extensive support of the Radnor Lake Natural Area.
“The City of Oak Hill has made substantial financial donations to Friends since its founding in 1973 for the preservation of land to be given to Radnor Lake,” President Ann Tidwell said. “We are most grateful to the Mayor and to the City for their continuing support.”
Mayor Charles Evers of Forest Hills also received the Blue Heron Award. Tidwell said under his leadership, Forest Hills gave the final $50,000 that made possible the purchase of six acres in Radnor Glen adjoining the natural area.
Former City Manager of Oak Hill, Bill Kraus says it best as he describes the importance of the relationship between the cities and the natural area: “Radnor Lake State Natural Area is the centerpiece of our community’s stewardship of the quality of life in this area,” Dr. Kraus maintains. “Individuals like Radnor Park manager Steve Ward and Ann Tidwell and her very active Friends of Radnor Lake work tirelessly to proactively protect and enhance this 1,300-acre treasure right in the middle of Oak Hill. Having the vision of nature’s beauty drives these individuals to pursue their goals.”
The dilemma of being stewards of wilderness, as well as the elected representatives of residents who desire to live in fabulous homes with fabulous views has been on the mind of our city leaders for a long time. Dr. Kraus ponders, “How do we maintain the delicate balance between the preservation of open space and nature’s beauty with the rights of property ownership and economic vitality? How does the Radnor Lake spirit encourage and drive the needed Oak Hill mission?”
MTSU professor and Oak Hill resident, Bill Canak, asserts, “We have a responsibility to protect and preserve all of Oak Hill as the gateway and beneficiary of the Radnor Lake Natural Preserve.”
Some answers to these thoughtful concerns have come in the form of grants to FORL for land preservation and stewardship. Others have been seen in the continued commitment to protecting fragile, slopping land from development addressing the uncertainty of land affected by potential landslides or soil movement as well as severe drainage impact on surrounding properties.
Commissioner Ray Throckmorton III served on the city's Board of Zoning Appeals for more than two years before he was elected commissioner in June 2002. Throckmorton served two terms as Oak Hill mayor from 2002 to 2006.
Mayor Charles Evers retired from office in October 2008 after serving the City of Forest Hills for more than twenty years.
2003: Carrie McElyea more
Carrie McElyea, affectionately known as Mrs. Mac, along with her husband Jesse until his death in 1961, was caretaker of Radnor Lake from March, 1946 until she retired March 31, 1979. The McEyeas moved into the “railroad house” now known as the McElyea Nature Center, to supervise the property and protect it from hunters, fishermen, boaters, horseback riders, and even lumberjacks. Through those years, she raised her children and helped raise her grandchildren, along with enforcing the rules to protect Radnor Lake. She did an exceptional job in all areas. Carrie McElyea died in August 2007, age 94.
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