After a pair of successive seven-year terms, plus two years filling a partial term of office, UW-Stevens Point Professor Emeritus George Kraft has termed out his tenure as Parks Commissioner with the Portage County Parks Commission.

At a ceremony honoring Kraft at the group’s annual holiday gathering, Portage County Parks Director Ryan Rose said, “Portage County has been fortunate to have had George Kraft as Parks Commissioner for 16 years. His service to the people and natural resources of the County make it a great place to live and thrive.”

Kraft began his service as Parks Commissioner by filling the last two years of the late Daniel Trainer’s term and said of his tenure, “I worked over the years with so many good folks—commissioners, staff, and citizens who donated time and funds for park improvements. A lot of good things got done—new parks were added and new enhancements were made to existing parks. Portage County residents are lucky to have the campgrounds, beaches, bike trails, and ski trails that the parks provide.”

A plaque handcrafted by local wood artist and Parks Trail Coordinator Rex Runke was given to Kraft as part of the ceremony.

Kraft closed his remarks as he said, “Parks are an integral part of the County’s quality of life and our economic development. High-quality parks, streams, lakes, and open spaces give younger folks incentive to come here, open businesses, raise families, and thrive. May they always be appreciated.”