VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT – CRAIG KONKEL By Megan Maynard

Craig, who has been a lifetime STPS member since 2007, has not always been a resident of Florida. Like many, he eventually found his way to Florida, having been born and raised in Joliet, Illinois. Graduating from Knox College, he worked for EJ&E Railroad while devoting six years to the reserves. Craig married and had three beautiful daughters while continuing his career with the railroad. His family moved to Harrisburg, PA and again to Albany, NY. After his divorce, Craig transferred to Atlanta, GA where he continued his career in the railroad.

Through the years, Craig notes he made many visits to Brevard and knew early on he had to retire here. He recalls one of his first trips to Brevard going to the STPS store which piqued his interest.

After 34 years, Craig retired from the railroad and has been enjoying retirement for the past two years. Craig found love again with his second wife Ricki, to whom he remains happily married. He jokes that on their second date he made his plans clear in that he was moving to Florida, and luckily she agreed!

Currently Craig is the marine turtle permit holder for the STPS walks. He also helps the stranding team. For the past three years he has remained on the board of directors. For many years, while still working for the railroad in Atlanta, he would commute to help with the turtle walks and was eventually added to the permit. When the (now former) permit holder moved, Craig become the current permit holder.

Craig couldn’t be prouder of the dedicated, “incredible, high performance” volunteers that comprise STPS. Working with such a fantastic group has made things easier for Craig in that he cannot recall any significant setbacks or hardships. He would encourage anyone interested to visit the educational center and gift shop on A1A and attend a membership meeting held on the first Thursday each month. With so many volunteer opportunities available, there is a fit for everyone. His ultimate goal is to have a larger facility in order to expand the current abilities of STPS.