Recipients Jim Thorsen, Byway Chair, and Nikki Thorsen, Byway Secretary, being presented with the 2025 Garry Balogh Inspiring Excellence Award
The Florida Scenic Highway Program is thrilled to announce that Jim and Nikki Thorsen, of the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway, have been honored with the 2025 Garry Balogh Inspiring Excellence Award!
On January 13, 2026, Jim and Nikki received a surprise visit from Dean Stoddart, FSHP Program Coordinator, who presented them with the award in front of fellow byway members at their January meeting. Jim and Nikki’s dedication to Florida’s natural beauty and their tireless work with the byway community truly embody the spirit of this award.
Jim’s Lasting Legacy
Jim Thorsen, Cathie Connelly, Mike Woods, and Anthony Ehrlich plant a kiosk in 2012
Jim and Nikki’s involvement with the Florida Scenic Highway Program spans over two decades! In 2005, they began working with Garry Balogh to establish the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway, which was officially designated in 2008 and received national recognition in 2009. Stretching 123 miles across Lake, Marion, Putnam, and Volusia counties, the byway showcases some of Florida’s most breathtaking natural features.
Even after retirement from the US Forest Service, Jim’s passion for preserving Florida’s natural resources shines through. This can be seen through the byway’s kiosk program that began in 2012, installing 15 kiosks filled with maps and educational information to help visitors appreciate and protect the areas delicate ecosystems. Thanks to Jim, Nikki, and the byway’s dedicated team, four more kiosks have since been added!
Jim and Nikki unveil a refreshed panel in an old kiosk on the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway in 2022.
Jim serves as the Byway Chair, and Nikki Thorsen serves as the byway organization’s Secretary. Jim and Nikki keep things running smoothly behind the scenes and are familiar faces at local events, spreading the word about the byway and its qualities.
What’s Next? Mark Your Calendars!
The Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway has some exciting events lined up for 2026:
- Umatilla Bear Festival: January 31, 2026, at Cadwell Park. Guided tours of the byway will be held at 11:30 am and 2:30 pm!
- Kids Fishing Day: April 11, 2026, at the pond by Essex Restaurant. Bring the family for a day of fun and fishing along the Byway!
Learn more about the byway and stay connected through the byway’s website, Facebook, and newsletter for updates, stories, and upcoming events.
Congratulations, Jim and Nikki Thorsen! Your commitment inspires us all to appreciate and protect Florida’s scenic treasures. Thank you for your dedication to the byway and the Florida Scenic Highway Program. Here’s to many more adventures along the Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway!
