Native Louisianan B.B. Craig led the ceremony marking the introduction of the Kisatchie National Forest quarter to circulation April 22 in Alexandria, La.
The Associate Director for Environment, Safety and Health for the United States Mint said, “As a Louisiana native, I am especially honored to be here to introduce the Kisatchie National Forest Quarter to the Nation. I know from first-hand experience that Kisatchie National Forest has many adventures and recreational activities to enjoy. With all its beauty and all that it has to offer, it’s easy to see why Kisatchie National Forest was chosen to represent the state of Louisiana.”
More than 1,500 people attended the special event at the Alexandria Riverfront Center. The Mint said 900 were schoolchildren.
Kisatchie National Forest is over 600,000 acres. It is the only national forest in the state.
Jim Caldwell, Public Affairs, Recreation, Heritage and Administration staff officer at the site said, “We hope the Kisatchie National Forest quarter will inspire Louisianans to get outdoors and explore their national forest.”
The Mint said the guest list of dignitaries taking part in the ceremony included Tom Tidwell, Chief of the United States Forest Service; Tony Tooke, Regional Forester of the United States Forest Service; Eddie Taylor, supervisor of Kisatchie National Forest; Col. T. Glenn Moore, U.S. Army Garrison Commander for the Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk, La.; and B. Cheryl Smith, Chief of the Jena Band of Choctaw Indians.
Schoolchildren were given a free quarter. Adults were able to obtain rolls for face value. They bought $34,000 worth of quarter rolls from the Red River Bank.
Visit www.usmint.gov to purchase bags and rolls at varying premiums over face value.
