Editor’s note: The process to honor WBC’s Teresa Norris was a long one, notably finding the right rock!
By Maureen Hernandez
Brainstorming: In Nov. 2021 shortly after Teresa Norris retired from her position as the long-time Chair our chapter’s Wilderness Basics Course 9WBC), I felt a strong inclination to do something to honor and recognize her. After all, she had started the WBC back in 2008 and put countless hours and energy to develop the program which instructed many leaders in leading backpacking and group outings.
She was and still is an inspiration to me and others. I thought that a rock bench with a plaque would be a way to honor her.
And so, the journey began. Suzanne Tanaka and I went to Teresa's house to share the plan and get her approval. She was honored and delighted and helped me through the process from Day 1.
Location: Originally, it was felt the top of Sisar Canyon at the overlook would be a perfect spot for hikers to sit, enjoy the view of Ojai valley and reflect. Teresa suggested I contact the Los Padres National Forest and I met with Karina Medina the Ojai District Ranger. Karina reported that the bench would "require a special permit" which was a "lengthy process". Because of Teresa’s health, I felt that wasn't a good option.
I thanked them and Diane Cross, the LPNF Assistant Recreation Officer, suggested I contact Bryan Conant, the Los Padres Forest Association’s Executive Director. In turn he said to contact Gordie Hemphill, manager of the Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center to place the rock there, so it found a home. This was pleasing to Teresa, as the campgrounds across the street have been one of her favorites in the area.
Rock; Next was the search for a rock. To start, I went to the Botanic Gardens in Ventura and asked where they found their large rock and Joe told me they used San Ynez Marble and Granite.
So I shopped and found a couple of nice rocks, but they cost money and then more money to deliver them to Ojai. Gordie told me that the rocks he had placed in the parking lot were brought down by CalTrans. I reached Lennon Bedau and was overwhelmed by his willingness to help. His crew was up Hwy 33 with equipment near a rockslide and he found the perfect rock. He sent me a few pictures of it and others, but I really wanted to meet the rock in person.
Suzanne and I went on a road trip up through Ojai, past Rose Valley looking for the 21.5-mile marker. Caltrans had already tagged it, so it was easy to find. Lennon’s crew brought it down to the Visitor Center and left it on a hill. But the manager didn't want it there. He wanted it down closer to the visitor center.
The project came to a halt as I was stumped on how to move a 2-ton rock down a hill. On a whim I reached out to Gina and Sean Cole to see if they knew of anyone in WBC that may be able to help. To the rescue came a knight to save the day. Tim Grant agreed to move the rock. So, he took off work, drove a tractor up Hwy 33 with his V-10 pickup. and moved our ‘Pet Rock’ to its final resting place.
Plaque: Custom Awards and Engraving had the best pricing and the shortest turnaround time. Now I just had to choose a few words to say that reflected the intent of so many and add her favorite John Muir quote. Teresa and her husband Tom approved.
Party: Finally, we were almost ready to plan the unveiling. Teresa and her family offered to bring the cake, I'd get the balloons and send out invitations then get the party started, which happened on Aug. 27.
Finale: It’s been a long journey for me, but I've encountered so many lovely people, and I can see and hear Teresa’s joy and gratitude. This makes it all worthwhile and is something I will remember all my life. And for all eternity, people will visit Wheeler Gorge Visitors’ Center and know that Teresa Norris made an impact and is appreciated.
