Local volunteer extraordinaire Paul Garrett has been honored as the Harrisburg Volunteer Citizen of the Year by Direct Energy and PA Media Group for his tireless efforts to involve the community in caring for the environment.  

Garrett has educated countless youths and adults on the finer points of Earth husbandry. Although he is officially retired, he still works to share his knowledge as conservationist and master gardener, leading school kids through organic gardening experiences and organizing adults to become active stewards of the planet. He is co-founder of Green-CAUSE.org, a one-stop site to find local green businesses and environmental tips for home and garden.

Garrett is donating his $5,000 prize money to help complete the science laboratory at the new Trails and Trees Environmental Center, a 26-acre indoor/outdoor area set aside for kids to study nature.

The Healthy Grocer recently celebrated 17 years of offering area consumers a natural and organic alternative to groceries, produce and supplements.  The store, owned and operated by Jeff Wolfson, was opened in 1996 and offers free workshops as part of its educational outreach program in areas such as, movement, nutrition, special diets and chronic conditions. Additionally, customers have the opportunity to sample certain product lines.

Location: 3800 Trindle Rd., Camp Hill. For more information, visit TheHealthyGrocer.com.