President’s Corner

President’s Corner

By Sarah Linney, SCAS President

Another Saturday night…and “all of a sudden I heard such a clatter, I leapt out of bed to see what was the matter.” I only wish it was Santa’s sleigh and the hooves of eight tiny reindeer. Instead it’s howling winds and driving rains brought on by a hurricane’s fury. And not once, not twice, three times in a span of only six weeks. Enough already, Ma Nature! Once was bad enough but to turn around and do it two more times simply wears you out! Friends were helping friends, neighbors were helping each other, and even strangers were lending a hand. Disasters have a way of bringing out the best in people. Many thanks for all the volunteers that have helped and are helping with Emergency Operation Centers across the state. Several of our members (that I know of) have put in many days of long hours answering phones and putting up tarps and helping to clear debris. I hope that everyone, no matter what your situation, can find something for which to be grateful. I also hope that those who have suffered little will reach out and find some way to help those who have suffered more. Thank you.

In Chapter news, the Audubon Assembly will be October 7–10 in St. Pete in conjunction with the Florida Birding and Wildlife Festival. All four officers will be attending this year. The Chapter Board authorized to reimburse the president for registration and two nights stay at the conference hotel. Our secretary, Betty McKeown, will be sharing my room.

Our first-of-the-year potluck went well with about 50 people in attendance. No one brought slides but we had fun with a word challenge competition. Everyone split up into teams and had 20 minutes to find as many three-letter or better words in the word “Hurricanes.” The top team found 108 I believe. Maureen’s master list had 118 but more are possible. A combined word list from all the teams may be available for the next meeting.

We are still seeking folks for the Board and/or to serve on committees. We especially need some help for Education, Hospitality (refreshments, greeter, etc.), and Conservation. I would like to welcome new board members Andy Bankert, Lynda Dawe, Juliet Sisk (Education), and Jim Stahl. At our board meeting in August, the Chapter received a $346 donation from Andy Bankert from his World Series of Birding pledges. Great going Andy! Due mostly to the hurricanes, the September board meeting was canceled. The next board meeting is scheduled for October 5.

See you at the next General Meeting on October 15 for the Halloween-themed program on Ghost Crabs.