Howell Environmental Commission Announces Recipient of Ann G. Ritchie Environmental Award
The Howell Environmental Commission honored its 2018 Ann G. Ritchie Award recipient, Arthur “Lee” Fankhauser at the Awards Dinner held on October 10, 2018 at the Eagle Oaks Country Club in Howell. The Ann G. Ritchie Award is made annually by the members of the Commission to honor the memory of Ann G. Ritchie, a devoted environmentalist who worked tirelessly to sustain the environment and quality of life in Howell.
This year’s recipient, Lee Fankhauser, has devoted his life to service to the environment, having had a career as an environmental consultant for over 25 years and having served on the Howell Township Planning Board from 2011 through 2016. He also served on the Howell Township Environmental Commission from 2009 through 2016, serving as it’s chairman in 2014 and 2015. His enduring concerns for the environment of Howell Township and years of service to the Township weighed heavily in the Environmental Commission’s decision to honor Mr. Fankhauser, according to its Chairperson, Joan Osborne.
The award was presented to Mr. Fankhauser at the dinner which was attended by members of the Township Council, including Mayor Theresa Berger and Councilwoman Evelyn O’Donnell. The dinner was also attended by members of the Lake Restoration and Wildlife Committee, Farmland Preservation Committee, Farmers’ Advisory Council and Green Team, as well as several past award winners. In addition to the plaque recognizing his achievement, a Proclamation honoring Mr. Fankhauser was signed and presented to Mr. Fankhauser at the event by Mayor Berger. The annual award and dinner is funded by a memorial fund maintained by the family of Ann G. Ritchie.