Hello Ranger Doug!
My name is Elsa. I’m 20 years old, writing to you from Phoenix, Arizona. Many years before I was born, my parents began collecting your posters. I believe you’ve heard from my dad, Jonathan Koppell, on more than one occasion about parks he’d love to see turned into posters. Throughout childhood and into my early adult years, we’ve been to many more parks, dutifully collecting your posters. Our walls are adorned with over 20 prints, each housed in frames custom-built by my dad. I write to thank you for the wonderful memories you have created and to continue the family tradition of nagging for more park posters!
Some ones I think you should consider making: Capitol Reef NP, Canyon de Chelly NM, Cape Cod National Seashore, Organ Pipe Cactus NM. I have plenty more recommendations should you desire them! I’m especially curious to see how you might capture the diverse scenery of a park like Capitol Reef, with both the classic rocky mountain scrambles and a beautiful green orchard.
On a final note, I want to sincerely thank you for the part you have played in my experiences at our cherished parks. Seeing your posters on the wall brings me such joy and reminds me of the wonderful times I had on the trails and in the campgrounds. These memories will stay with me forever, strengthened by your efforts. I look forward to many more parks and posters!
All the best,
Elsa Steen Koppell
(and in a subsequent email) she sends this postscript:
…….. I thought I’d send over a picture of the wall I mentioned in my first note. Here’s our very own Ranger Doug gallery. There are even more posters on the opposite wall (Shenandoah, Olympic, Canyonlands, Mt. Rainier, and Arches). Our home is a testament to the beauty and value of our beloved national parks, so wonderfully captured by your art.
