 |
|
|
|
|
EAS Minutes February 16, 2010 Following a two-part program with Steve Gifford's terrific photos and Brian Taylor's informative guide on using E-Bird, president Richard Vernier called the meeting to order. No published minutes to approve. No motions were discussed due to lack of quorum. Treasurer Ted Hitch reported $9285.47 in checking (includes reserved funds: $4,000 grant for Friends of Patoka Refuge and $1,650 for Ohio Valley Birding Festival) and $4682.01 CD. Donations of $100 were received in memory of Don Goodaker. Ted is waiting for contributions from Dan Collins and Tim Griffith before finalizing Christmas Bird Count Fees. Brian Taylor will follow-up. Calendars with Steve Gifford's photos are being sold as a fundraiser for OVBF. Old Business: Sue Vernier mentioned that a liability release form is still needed for field trips and OVBF. Susan Haislip suggested contacting other Indiana chapters for samples. Glenn and Nellie Grant Memorial funds will not be expended until after renovations are completed at WWNP. New Business: Susan Haislip advised that EAS will need to find a temporary meeting location as the WWNP building will be closed to the public during renovations, possibly as early as May. Richard suggested using the meeting room at either the Central Library or Gander Mountain. January 19, 2010
The meeting was brought to order by Vice President, Lois Schmidt
at 8:10pm
Lois gave the treasurer's report in Ted Hitch's absence: Income: Donations: $1,135 $4,000 from National Fish and Wildlife to Friends of Patoka NWR. Expenses: $61.45 Stamps and mailing Balances: Checking $9,344.91 CD $4,676.85 Jim Lodato gave a report on the January 16 field trip to see the Bald Eagles around the Mississippi River. There were 5 people on the trip. They saw 100 trumpeter swans, snow geese, 40 eagles, various ducks and goldeneye ducks. Jim wants to get people together around March 1 to see the woodcock display.
At the Birding Festival on April 30, there will be a reception at Ivy Tech for Sally Roth. Also, there will be a book signing. We now have insurance. We need someone to help with refreshments.
Large flocks of Merlins have been sighted.
Meeting adjourned at 8:30PM, Joyce Padfield, secretary December 15, 2009 Following our annual Christmas buffet, Dick Vernier, president, brought the meeting to order. There were some changes in the published minutes. In the October minutes, Sally Roth is the keynote speaker at the Birding Festival and not the chairman of the festival and also we will not ask for $5.00 per person for the bird count, but will accept donations. In the November minutes, the board will not ask Wesselmans to delay the $250 room rental. Ted Hitch gave the treasurer's report:
Checking - $4,270.20 Carol Pettys asked for volunteers to help with reception for keynote speaker, Sally Roth. Steve Heeger said the insurance money was sent and we should be getting certification soon. Steve moved to split insurance between EAS and the birding festival. Sue Vernier seconded. Motion carried. Discussion was held regarding the newsletter. Judi wanted to know about having just a March newsletter primarily for the birding festival. The board agreed.
Discussion was held regarding the Eagle Slough project. Steve
Heeger suggested that we would provide a mailing for Eagle Slough
with costs being reimbursed. Meeting adjourned at 8:30pm. Joyce Padfield, Secretary November 17, 2009 The meeting was brought to order by President Richard Vernier at 8:19 pm. The program "Wild Utah: America's Redrock Wilderness, was presented by Clayton Daughenbaugh and was very interesting. The Treasurer's report was given by Ted Hitch.
Checking: $4,715.26
Contributions - 34 individuals totaling $1,345 (2 this month) Richard Vernier is to ask Wesselmans to delay the $250 room rental. Carol Pettys moved to send a grant proposal for $500 to NAS for the Birding Festival. Sue Vernier seconded. Motion carried. Discussion was held regarding insurance liability for the birding festival and field trips. Steve Heeger moved that we contact McKay Insurance for $446 insurance to cover birding festival and field trips. Sue Vernier seconded. Motion carried. Brian Taylor gave a report on the winter bird count. Can check on eBird for results. NAS for t Conservation Chair Sue Vernier stated that $1.15 million designated for land at Patoka has passed. She will write letter send letters to Brad Ellsworth and Senator Lugar. Meeting adjourned at 9:20pm. Joyce Padfield, Secretary October 20, 2009 The meeting was brought to order by Dick Vernier, president at 8:10pm. The minutes were approved as written. The treasurer's report was given by Ted Hitch. Deposits of $1,035 - NAS $ 205 - NAS Checks written $10 - state of Indiana $148.81 - mailings $200.00 - trust account at post office Checking account balance $4,684.38 CD $4,659.06 due November 26, 2009 Judi Russell, webmaster, needs reports on field trips to put in newsletter. The field trip on October 24 was to Cane Ridge. Regarding NAS and Toyota Forever Green project, Toyota wants to do a volunteer day with NAS for Earth Day either April 17-18 or the next weekend with Patoka Wildlife Refuge as a project. Still trying to get money for Patoka Wildlife over 1,000 acres. Carol Pettys gave a report on the Birding Festival which is April 29, 30, and May 1 and 2. Sally Roth is in charge. Carol said there is a great need for clean milk jugs and toilet paper rolls. Some of the donation money will go for the festival. Sue Vernier moved we give them $500. for the festival. Sarah Karges seconded and the motion was carried. Discussion was held about insurance for Audubon. The insurance committee should be at the next meeting. It was mentioned that a charge of $5.00 per person should be charged for bird count. Greg Meyer saw a Sedge Wren at Howell Wetlands. Meeting adjourned at 9:25pm. Joyce Padfield, Secretary September 15, 2009 Following a great program by Chuck Mills on "Birding in Cuba", Dick Vernier brought the meeting to order. The minutes were approved as printed. There was no treasurer's report. The only expense was $10 to the state attorney general for small business report. The program for October 20 will be “Where Waters Wed: Southwestern Indiana” by Greg Meyer. Join us beforehand for dinner and camaraderie at 5:30pm at the Eastland Mall Food Court. The November 17 program will be Wild Utah: America's Red Rock Wilderness given by Clayton Daughenbaugh. The field trips are mostly on Saturday following the meeting. Sarah Karges is doing publicity and membership. The donation letter has been written and should be going out soon. Toyota and Audubon will be getting started working together on projects. Regarding, the Ohio Valley Birding Festival, EAS has taken over the project and needs liability insurance. We are getting quotes on annual coverage for the festival and field trips. A refreshment sheet was passed around. Bird sightings: Cane Ridge - sandpiper, Power Plant - 220 least terns, Rockport- 40 least terns. Jim Lodato spotted a Leucistic Red Tail off I164. Meeting was adjourned at 8:55pm. Joyce Padfield, Secretary
EAS Minutes– Planning Session
The organizational meeting was brought to order by president
Richard Vernier on August 29, 2009. Sue Vernier passed out copies
of the budget. and a list of members and officers. The audit
committee report was okayed by Steve Heeger. Sue Vernier gave the
August treasurer's report in Ted Hitch's absence:
Ron Russell made a motion to accept and Sarah Karges The budget was passed. seconded. There will be a sign-up sheet at September's meeting for refreshments. Discussion was held about historical documents. Sarah Karges will handle membership and the listing of programs. Jim Lodato will be the field trip chairman. The trips will be on the third Saturday following the monthly meeting. The first one will be on September 19 at 8:00 am at Howell Wetlands. Checking will be done on liability insurance for field trips. Steve Heeger has several programs planned for the year. Susan Haslip talked about the Birding Festival. The festival will be sponsored in 2010 by EAS. Carol Pettys moved to accept and Sue Vernier seconded. Motion passed. Meeting adjourned at 5:30 pm followed by a potluck dinner at Virginia Simmons' home. Joyce Padfield, Secretary
EAS Minutes Following a great picnic, Bill Vieth presented a very interesting series of bird photographs. Many were of birds in action, catching prey, feeding young, etc. President Dick Vernier convened the Annual Membership Meeting at 8:15. The minutes were approved as printed. Dick read a report from the treasurer. Checking balance $3558.54, CD $4558.25 with a maturity of 11-26-09. Program: Steve Heeger is looking for suggestions for next year. Summer planning meeting will be hosted by Virginia and Bill Simmons Sat., Aug. 29 at 3 PM to be followed by a potluck. Conservation: Sue Vernier suggests we thank Senator Lugar and Congressman Ellsworth for their support of Patoka NWR. It looks like funding may really come through. Nominating: Sue presented the slate of officers and directors as printed in the June newsletter. Following a motion by Jack Schmidt, all were elected. Newsletter: Enthusiastic comments were made about the online version of the newsletter available on the website. Discussion ensued about giving people the option of getting only the online version which can show more, including color pictures. Audit Committee. Steve and Delores Heeger agreed to serve Old Business: Don Batema expects to hear about his Forever Green application by Aug 1. Bird Sightings: Jessica Franck reported birds nesting on the Burlington Coat Factory sign. Verniers reported good sightings on a Kirtland Warbler tour in Michigan. Meeting adjourned 8:45 Carolyn Bennett, Secretary May 19, 2009 Debbie Goedde presented an interesting program on butterflies. Her enthusiasm is contagious. Vice President Lois Schmidt convened the meeting at 8:10. She reported for the treasurer. The only expenditures were those voted on at the previous meeting. Newsletter Editor and Webmaster Judi Russell will renew the website for $99 and turn in the bill. Education: Carol Pettys reported that Tim Griffith is in charge of the EAS sponsored Jr. Birder’s Club for teenagers. So far there have been few attendees, but they are quite knowledgeable. She also displayed various ‘thank you’s from those receiving grants Lois Schmidt presented the list of nominees for the June election. Meeting adjourned 8:33pm Carolyn Bennett, Secretary
April 21, 2009 Bill McCoy presented an update on the status and needs of Patoka River NWR. Susan Haslip spoke (as a private citizen) on the formation of a friends group for the refuge. Dick Vernier, president, convened the board meeting at 8:20 Minutes for February and March approved as printed. Treasurer Ted Hitch reported Checking balance $5338.62, CD interest $12.69, balance $4609.20 (matures May 28). Of $2110 in Education Donations we have now spent $1115, leaving $995. Grant Memorial is $290, Nominating Committee named: Sue Vernier, Carol Pettys, and Lois Schmidt. Education. Carol Pettys presented two requests for the education donations: Susan Fowler has a program for youth on the theme “It’s Easy Being Green”, held in the Art Garden camp at Patchwork Central. She will use drama, songs, sign language and crafts. $375. Educational Signage at Eagle Slough $620. Both requests were approved. The $500 collaborative grant from NAS and money left from last years grant will fund 4 $150 scholarships for inner city 5th graders to the Wesselman all day summer camp “Every Day Outside”.. Old Business. EAS mentioned in newspaper Earth Day article. New Business. May 26 set for Great American Cleanup at North Woods. We are looking for a volunteer to be Historian. Carol is looking for help with Wesselman’s Junior Birders (teenage) program. Sightings. Cane Ridge – 4 avocets, Oatsville Bottoms – 5, Bald Eagles Eagle Slough – 3 vireos, 7 warblers, WWNP prothonatary. Hitches have wildflowers. Meeting adjourned at 9:00 pm Carolyn Bennett, secretary March 17, 2009 Member Dr. Jim Brenneman presented an informative talk about friendly fungi. We learned that a number of plants grow better when certain fungi are present near the root system..
Dick
Vernier, president, convened the board meeting at 8:40. Education. Ted reported for Carol Pettys who was ill. She proposed using $500 for vandal-resistant signage at Eagle Slough. More clarification is needed to ensure that monies spent would be for educational signs. She proposed remaining educational funds to be used for 5th grade camp scholarships to WNS summer programs, to go along with the scholarships funded by collaborative grants. Volunteers wanted for:
Great American Cleanup to be Tuesday May 26 at North
Woods Bird Counts. Brian Taylor will be new chair for spring count. Field trips. Goose Pond, Wed., April 22. Area expert Lee Sterrenburg will guide. Conservation. Contact Senators and Congressman for funding of Patoka NWR, which was reclaimed for songbird habitat. One Million needed. New Business. Susan Haislip is looking for Birding Festival volunteers: hike leaders and folks to be spend an hour as ‘experts’ helping novices in the bird room. She also reported that the new ‘Friends of Patoka NWR’ was started by a grant obtained by EAS. Sightings. Verniers- Whooping Cranes at Goose Pond, Ted Hitch-blooming wildflowers, Steve Heeger-woodcocks heard, Susan Haslip-nesting Cooper’s Hawks, Nancy Hitch-nesting Red-Shouldered Hawks. Meeting adjourned at 9:15 Carolyn Bennett, secretary February 17, 2009 The evening’s program featured “Life on Land”, part 3 of a 4-part nature documentary, “Indiana’s Natural Heritage”. Interest was expressed in viewing other parts of the series in the future. (It was suggested that popcorn should be provided next time.) Dick Vernier, president, convened the board meeting at 8:20. Minutes were accepted as printed. Treasurer: Ted Hitch reported receipt of a $100 education donation, total received $2210 with $840 spent. No change in Grant memorial fund. Balances: Checking $5840.39, CD $4585.08, Bulk mail $207.44. Education: Ted Hitch gave report in Carol Pettys’ absence. Volunteers needed at Howell Wetlands, 4/18 earth day event, 10AM-2PM. Carol recommends $100 grant for Patchwork Central gardening activities, motion by Lois Schmidt, seconded by Sue Vernier and approved. Leaders needed for monthly Jr. Birder club field trips beginning in May. Does EAS want to participate in Great American Cleanup, decision at March meeting. Sue Vernier presented motion for $175 to Evansville Psychiatric Children’s Center for bird houses and plantings, seconded by Jack Schmidt and approved. Volunteers needed for family day at Ohio Valley Birding Festival 5/2 and save your toilet tissue rolls and milk jugs with caps. Conservation: Sue Vernier discussed EAS request to Congress for LWCF appropriations for Patoka River NWR. Programs: Dick and Sue Vernier announced a multi-media slideshow presentation, “Wild Utah: America’s Redrock Wilderness”, is scheduled 11/17. It’s available for showing at other venues such as universities, churches, etc. Dr. Jim Brenneman's program: Mutualistic (friendly) fungi, will be 3/17. New Business: Lois Schmidt will send get-well cards to Judi Russell, Paul Bennett and Nancy Hitch. Aaron Chenowith needs a short book review of the new Roger T. Peterson biography. Don Batema volunteered. Bird sightings were shared and meeting adjourned, Sue Vernier, secretary pro tem January 20, 2009 Our scheduled speaker, Alan Pursell, was delayed by a flat tire. Fortunately, Lauren Preske was available and she presented the Barred Owl Luna along with a talk about raptors. When Alan, from The Nature Conservancy, arrived he presented his ‘The Secret Lives of Acorns’. We learned about acorns, changes in forest types, deer and more. There was no business to transact, so no meeting, but Treasurer Ted Hitch gave me this report. Donations received. December $175, January $100, from NAS $30. Expenses Castle education grant $250, St. Joe education grant $90.14, WWNP $500. Balance: Checking $6017.69. Carolyn Bennett, secretary December16, 2008 On an evening with scattered ice problems a few brave souls enjoyed a potluck, followed by a brief business meeting. Dick Vernier, president, convened the board meeting at 8:17. Treasurer Ted Hitch reported $1250 in Collaborative Grants was received from NAS. As of 11/30/08t otal education donations are $1835, and Grant Memorial donations are $290. Balances: Checking $6743.50. After correction to November minutes, (Steve Heeger, not Sue Vernier to be contact with Keep Evansville Beautiful regarding NAS-Toyota Forever Green) October and November minutes were approved. Education. Carol Pettys reported NAS grants applied for in November were not awarded. Carol presented for a vote several applications for EAS grants. The following were approved: 1) Castle High School landscaping class was awarded $250 to plant gardens on their grounds, The students will be analyzing the soil pH, our Hardiness Zone, and native plants that attract birds. 2) St. Joseph School will receive $90.14 for soil, grow lights, and seeds to begin planting flowers and vegetables around their school on Earth Day 2009. 3) WWNP $300 to defray costs of field trips for economically disadvantaged children. The field trips may be to WWNP, Howell Wetlands or a trip with Canoe Evansville. Items wanted for Birding Festival crafts : Milk jugs with lids, toilet paper cores and bird pictures. Bird Counts. Carol is looking for a replacement chairman. She will work with someone else on spring count. New Business. Susan Haslip is looking for volunteers to lead birding trips at WWNP. Leaders could choose their own dates. Meeting adjourned at 7:25. Following adjournment several members shared pictures. Carolyn Bennett, secretary November 18, 2008 Alan Gehret, Curator of the Audubon Museum at Audubon State Park, ‘took us on a journey’ showing us where John James Audubon had seen some of the birds he painted. Alan has been to a number of these places. Dick Vernier, president, convened the board meeting at 8:30. Minutes accepted as printed. Treasurer Ted Hitch reported that as of 10/31/08: Education donations are $1670, Balances: Checking $5144.55 (reserved for grant memorial $295), 6 month CD $4548.85 (due 11-27-08), Bulk Mail $263.71. It was decided to let the CD roll over for another 6 months. Education. Carol Pettys reported NAS grants were awarded: $500 for summer camp scholarships for inner city students and $750 for Birding Festival. Since more grant money was potentially available, Steve Heeger moved and Sue Vernier seconded that we apply for $300 for inner city field trips. Motion passed. Christmas Bird Counts. Carol has captains. Carol recommended the Operation Migration website. She plans to go to try to see the whooping cranes when they get to southern Illinois or northern Kentucky and would be glad to have someone join her. Programs. Steve Heeger listed future programs. February options were considered. Conservation. Sue Vernier reported Senator Lugar has a new aide with responsibilities for the environment. Sue thinks it is important to send letters urging financial support for Patoka NWR so the new aide will realize people consider it important. Confined Feeding can be a real problem for the environment. A group formed from representatives of several organizations has written a policy statement, the first item of which is to establish a moratorium preventing new operations until regulations can be set up. Sue will send letters to local Indiana state legislators in this regard. Keep Evansville Beautiful is interested in applying for a NAS-Toyota Forever Green Grant. As a result of our discussion, Sue will tell them that EAS needs more details before deciding on a supporting statement. Old Business. We discussed a future online newsletter, partly to save cost and partly to expand information including pictures and contributions from members. The Grant Memorial will be at WWNP, but will wait for renovation. Steve Heeger is planning field trips for the Birding Festival. Family Day events committee includes Carol Pettys, Debbie Goedde and Connie Walts. New Business. Information from Tim Griffith concerning periodic census of birds on a reclaimed mine site in Warrick County was presented. There is grazing on this site. Several members were interested. Bird Sightings. The Hitches reported White Fronted and a few Snow along with Canada Geese and ducks at Sauerhaber. A Snowy Owl has been reported on INBIRD. Albino deer at Audubon State Park. Meeting adjourned at 9:40. Carolyn Bennett, secretary October 21, 2008 Don Batema, UE faculty and EAS board member presented a program on Birds of England and Ireland. He pointed out interesting similarities and differences between them and the birds we see here. Dick Vernier, president, convened the board meeting at 8:30. Minutes accepted as printed. Treasurer Ted Hitch presented his bird quiz on cavity nesting birds. Income: NAS 1185.00, Education donations $1185, Checking Interest $2.71, CD Interest $10.79. Expenses: none. Balances: Checking $5004.00 (reserved for grant memorial $335), 6 month CD $4537.67 (due 11-27-08), Bulk Mail $263.00. Education. Carol Pettys reported. After discussion Carol moved and Sue Vernier seconded that applications to NAS for grants would be: $500 for summer camp scholarships for inner city students (Carol writing grant) and $750 for Birding Festival (Susan Haslip writing grant). Motion passed. Christmas Bird Counts. Carol is recruiting captains. Programs. Dick Vernier listed programs through January. Field Trips/Conservation. Sue Vernier reported that 80 or 90 attended October 4 Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge Appreciation Day including representatives from offices of Senators Lugar and Bayh. Information provided for members requested to request funding for Patoka. Old Business. Susan Haslip reported that Birding Festival Committee is hoping to expand hikes and activities, May 1-3 2009. Ted Hitch, Carol Pettys and Carolyn Bennett will be Grant Memorial Committee. Refreshment provider list updated. New Business. Susan Haslip reported that Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve will have a Bio-Blitz starting Friday. State DNR staff, some EAS members and others will be involved. The results of this inventory will be presented to the public on Saturday. Bird Sightings. Sue Vernier reported a fallout of Field Sparrows, a Chipping Sparrow, Juncos and a Brown Creeper. Ted Hitch and Tim Griffith still have hummers. Tim reported Pine Siskins, Juncos, and a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. Bob Wargel reported a White Throat Sparrow. Meeting adjourned at 9:10. Carolyn Bennett, secretary September 16, 2008 Kim Meadors, executive director of Wesselman Nature Society, introduced herself and presented some of the forward-looking plans for the society. Tim Griffith emphasized prairie plants in his talk about using native plants in landscaping. He showed examples of small as well as large landscapes. Dick Vernier, president, convened the board meeting at 8:45. Jessica Franck presented information about behind the scenes tours of Amazonia at the zoo. Previous minutes were accepted as printed. Treasurer Dick presented Ted Hitch’s written report: as of 08/31/08, 3 months activity. Income: CD Div/Interest $11.12, Grant Memorial $75. Expenses: Bulk Mail $100.00, Secretary of State $10.00, Newsletters $46.00. Balances: Checking $2201.98, 6 month CD $4526.88 (due 11-27-08). Education. Carol Pettys working with Susan Haslip will ask for collaborative grants once she is able to issue final reports on previous grants. Thank you letters from students were displayed. Programs. Steve Heeger listed programs through January. Field Trips. October 4 Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge Appreciation Day. Sue Vernier is looking for volunteers. Suggestions for field trips are wanted. Conservation. Sue Vernier reported a letter addressed to the Secretary of the Interior has been sent to NAS, to be hand carried with others to the Secretary. These letters oppose changes to rules which would weaken the Endangered Species Act. Several information for action sheets were distributed. Old Business. In May EAS voted to be the 501 c(3) organization needed to start a Friends Group for Patoka River NWR. Susan Haislip has submitted the extensive forms. Dr. Rashid of USI has received a grant from the Audubon-Toyota Together Green Initiative, Runoff Pollution Reduction Through Watershed Management and Planning. He spoke to us in May about it. USI, not EAS was the partner. Steve Heeger reported on plans for the Birding Festival. Carol Pettys and Lois Schmidt are also on the committee. Bird Sightings. Sue Vernier reported Red-Necked Phalaropes, a variety of sandpipers and plovers at Cane Ridge. Aaron Chenoweth reported Redstarts at WWNP. Carolyn Bennett reported an Evening Grosbeak at her feeder. Meeting adjourned at 9:40. Carolyn Bennett, secretary
EAS Minutes– Planning Session The new Board, officers and directors, met along with committee chairs at the home of member Virginia Simmons Sunday afternoon August 10. President Dick Vernier opened the meeting about 3 pm. Sue Vernier presented the proposed budget along with explanations. Expenses exceed expected income. Funds from National Audubon about cover newsletter expense. All funds in response to education letter go for education. NAS collaborative grants must be spent on the requested project. Sue moved, Steve Heeger seconded and the budget was adopted. Discussions included the production of a quality newsletter economically, proposed programs and field trips. Meeting adjourned around 5 and was followed by a potluck dinner . Carolyn Bennett, secretary
EAS Minutes
Following the Annual Spring Picnic, Lauren Preske, Howell Wetlands
Manager and WNS raptor docent manager, presented a program on birds
of prey with an up-close view of raptors. Treasurer Dick Vernier reported balances as of 06-17-08. Income: interest $3.50, Education Donation $595.00, WBU seed sale $187.00. Expenses: WWNC Summer Camp Scholarships $1195.00, WNS Bird Fest collaborative grant $500.00, Newsletter printing (2 issues) $160.00, Oakland City CBC fee $40.00, Web Hosting renewal $99.00 Balances: Checking $3224.27, Reserved Funds $1287.00 (collaborative and seed sale) Six mo CD $4493.95, Bulk Mail $118.41 Education Carol Pettys had pictures and thank you letters. Susan Haislip reported a phone call from a grateful mother about the scholarship. Conservation Sue Vernier asked us to call or email Representative Ellsworth, and Senators Bayh and Lugar reminding them how important funding of the Patoka Wildlife Refuge is. Numbers and addresses will be posted on our website. Sue moved to renew our membership to the Hoosier Environmental Council for a cost of $97.00. After discussion the motion passed. Newsletter/ WebSite Judith Russell showed us a sample format of the next newsletter. She reported delays and problems with our current web host and requested changing to a new one. Sue Vernier moved to approve the $99.00 with a second by Joyce Padfield. Motion passed. Field Trips Susan Haislip reminded us of the trip on Saturday, June 21, to Cane Ridge and Gibson Power Plant, leaving from WWNP. The Planning Meeting for the next season has been scheduled for August 10 at 3:00 pm at Virginia and Bill Simmons, followed by a yummy pitch-in dinner. The nominating committee of Steve and Dolores Heeger, Richard and Sue Vernier and Carol Pettys presented the slate of officers and moved that they be approved by acclamation. Joyce Padfield seconded and the motion carried. New Officers: President—Richard Vernier, Vice President—Lois Schmidt, Treasurer—Ted Hitch, Secretary—Carolyn Bennett, Directors, term ending 2011—Don Batema, Susan Haislip, Sarah Karges, Jim Lodata, one year term ending 2009—Aaron Chenowith The producer and photographer who made the CD on caves of southern Indiana is now working on birds of southern Indiana. The Verniers and Susan Haislip have led him to some of our hotspots. The most exciting sighting was gray fox kits in the Hitches wildlife area. Meeting adjourned at 9:30 Lois Schmidt, secretary pro tem
EAS Minutes
Dick Vernier
explained the creation of the CD Caves: Life Beneath the Forest
prior to showing the program. There was a spirited question and
answer followed.
Steve Heeger, president, convened the board meeting at 9:00. Treasurer Dick Vernier reported balances as of 04/30/08, 1 month’s activity. Income: company matches, $127.00; dividend/interest, $3.97. Expenses: education, $1,874.45; bulk mail, $100.00; forever stamps, $24.60. Balances: checking $2,868.80; reserved funds (national collaborative), $1,600; six-month CD, $4,476.23; bulk mail, $170.58. Note: $600 is yet to be spent on summer camp scholarships for education. Education receipts for year $1,628; expenditures $2,474.45. Education Twelve children will receive summer camp scholarships; a donation covers excess over amounts approved. Delaware School sent a thank-you for our help with their Earth Day. Carol Pettys thanked Birding Festival helpers in the children’s area. Hike leaders and all involved were also thanked. Bird Count 147 species, 7,315 birds. Field Trips Tuesday, June 3, 7 AM Eagle Slough. Nominating Sue Vernier presented nest year’s slate and thanked those retiring. New Business Susan Haslip requested EAS be the 501c(3) organization needed to start a Friends Group for Patoka NWR. Lois Schmidt moved to do so; S Vernier seconded, motion passed. Bird Sightings. Aaron Chenoweth saw a group of Cedar Waxwings at the nature preserve. I couldn’t keep up with the other reports. Meeting adjourned at 9:45. Carolyn Bennett, secretary
EAS Minutes Angie Garcia, DNR Amphibian Monitoring Program, presented a program about frogs and toads in Indiana, including their confusing calls as well as pictures. Steve Heeger, president, convened the board meeting at 8:25. February and March meeting minutes were approved as printed. Treasurer Dick Vernier reported balances as of 03/31/08, 1 month’s activity. Income: NAS Incentive, $70.00; dividend/interest, $5.36. Expenses: conservation, $10.61; stamps $8.22. Balances: Checking, $4740.85 plus $1,600 in reserved funds (national collaborative); six-month CD, $4,458.46; bulk mail, $170.58. All accounts: $10,969.89. Conservation Sue Vernier reported she and Dick testified at an IDEM meeting concerning the proposed change to the designation of the particulate air quality standard from non-attainment to attainment. No industry representatives were present and all those testifying opposed the change. Education Carol Pettys needs more Birding Festival helpers and door prizes. She passed a sign-up sheet for the June 7 Great American Cleanup. Old Business A memorial for Glenn and Nellie Grant was discussed. Some chapter funds will be used. The species noted on the field trip to Eagle Slough is the start of a census. Carol Pettys has agreed to be the recipient of observer’s lists. New Business Judi Russell will be the newsletter editor next year. Vivian Ruff will handle newsletter mailing. Bird Sightings Verniers reported Bill McCoy sighted white pelicans at Patoka NWR. Carol Pettys had an orchard oriole; Heegers, blue grosbeak; Hitches, pine siskins with nest material. Meeting adjourned. Carolyn Bennett, secretary
EAS Minutes Paul Bousman, Botanical Curator of Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Gardens, gave us a preview of Amazonia. We will look forward to this exhibit opening this summer. Steve Heeger, president, convened the board meeting at 8:00. December and January meeting minutes were approved as printed. Treasurer Dick Vernier reported balances as of 02/29/08, 2 months’ activity. Income: Education Donations, $10.00; Div/Interest, $10.29. Expenses: Conservation, $5.00; two Newsletter printings, $160.00; Bird count fees, $245.00. Balances: Checking, $4684.32 plus $1600 in reserved funds (national collaborative); 6-month CD, $4400.17; Bulk Mail, $119.98. All accounts $10,844.47. Conservation. Construction of the kiosk at Cane Ridge is done, but no signage yet. Sue Vernier had pictures; the whole thing looks impressive. Sue passed a sign-up sheet for people willing to come to Cane Ridge to weed. The partner funds for a NAWCA grant proposal approved in January is dead. The project fell through, as Peabody Coal was reserving the right to come back and strip mine again. Education. After discussion the following education grants were approved, the total going above what we had received in donations. 1- Supplemental special feed, recommended by the Raptor Center at the U. of Minnesota, for the raptors at WWNP, $500
2-
3- Delaware school for Earth Day Celebration, $350 4- Reading with Raptor summer program at WWNP for middle school students, $200 5- Culver School Bird Habitat, $240 6- Soil analysis kits for 5th West Elementary in Mt. Vernon, $84.95 Carol Pettys also mentioned participation in the Earth Day Program at Howell Wetlands April 19, 10am-2pm, volunteers needed. She will also be asking for volunteers fro the Great American Cleanup on June 7. One hundred extra copies of newsletters with the Audubon membership form needed at this time for distribution at Earth Day and the Birding Festival. Susan Haslip, Wesselman Nature Society director, reported on Eagle Slough. The 4Rivers RCND is acting as the land trust holder. There is to be an April 5 cleanup. EAS members are being asked to work on a bird list for the area. EAS will have a field trip to the area April 12. See calendar section in the front section of the newsletter for details. Steve Heeger told of an important announcement to be made March 26. Toyota will be giving National Audubon Society $20 million over 5 years The focus will be on habitat, water and energy. Grants of varying sizes will be made, some at the chapter level.
Meeting adjourned at 9:25.
EAS Minutes Ray Irwin, INDOT Director of Green-ways and Bikeways presented information on a statewide plan. He did much of the planning for these enhancements in Indianapolis. Some of the greenways are based on work done by Kessler in 1904-9. Ted Hitch announced that the Sauerheber field trip would not take place because the accessible areas were under water. He also announced that Steve Heeger is interested in a Blue River canoe field trip, when the water is right in April. Ted Hitch, vice-president, convened the board meeting at 8:45. Education. Lois Schmidt presented a list of grant requests that Carol Pettys had prepared. However, as Tim Griffith pointed out we did not have a quorum of the Board (4 officers and 12 directors) present to vote on spending money. But there were several requests that needed timely action, and should not wait until the March meeting. It was agreed to have an e-mail discussion to reach a consensus on 6 of the 9 items. The formal vote will be taken in March. The secretary will send the information via e-mail or snail mail and phone to Board members. There was some discussion of changing the by-laws to have a procedure in place to handle this contingency.
There was no other business discussed.
EAS
Minutes Following a program presented by Tim Griffith on Birding Technology, Steve Heeger, president, brought the meeting to order. Dick Vernier gave the treasurer's report. Income - education donations, $505.00; National Audubon Collaborative Fund, $1,000.00; div/Interest, $6.72. Expenses - mailing expenses/supplies, $70.43; bulk mail and annual fee, $275.00; program speaker - Audubon membership, $35.00; WWNP membership, $250.00. Checking acct. balance, $6,673.63; CD balance, $4,404.99; bulk mail, $171.00; education donations, $1501.00 plus $100 employee match. Carol Pettys was not present at the meeting, but she wanted Steve to ask people to save plastic milk/juice jugs; CD's w/ a shiny side, bird pictures from magazines, photos, old calendars, old Audubon magazines, etc. They will be used at the Birding Festival. Sue Vernier gave the conservation report. A motion was approved and seconded to contribute $600.00 to a North American Wetlands Conservation Act, (NAWCA) partner grant proposal to acquire and restore bottom-land wetlands and wetland associated uplands; the $600.00 will be designated specifically for Patoka River NWR. Motion passed. Another motion passed to apply for an additional $400.00 from National Audubon's Collaborative Grant program. If the application is approved, the $400.00 to be applied to the NAWCA grant and designated for Patoka River NWR. Sue and Dick Vernier attended the Indiana Conservation Alliance sponsored "Conservation Day 2008" at the Statehouse. Sue discussed issues of concern including supporting passage of the Great Lakes Water Resources Compact to prevent diversions of water from the Great Lakes and concern for a loss of up to 47% of dedicated funding for the state Division of Forestry. Steve said that Ted Hitch thought some people didn't like his bird quiz. We all said that we enjoyed it and to continue. Chuck Mills wants to know if EAS would be interested in sponsoring a birding trip to Cuba or Costa Rica. After discussion, we decided not to as the liability would be too high. Discussion was held regarding the new ball stadiums proposed to go in at Wesselman Park and how they would affect nature and wildlife at Wesselman Woods. Tim Griffith suggested a strong letter from Audubon opposing it. Tim Griffith suggested a seed sale at his store with the profit going to Audubon for land acquisition. He suggested in February to coincide with the Great Backyard Bird Count on "President's Day" weekend February 15 - 18, 2008. Motion was made for the seed sale and seconded. Motion passed.Meeting adjourned. Joyce Padfield, secretary pro tem
EAS
Minutes The meeting was held at the Browning Events room at Central Library because the septic system had backed up at the Wesselman Woods Nature Center. This was a last minute change. An attempt was made to notify all likely attendees by telephone and a notice was left at Wesselman about the change of venue. Following the potluck, member’s digital pictures were displayed on a large screen. The Hitches also had several displays of prints. Before the formal meeting, upcoming field trips were discussed. There are complications regarding the January Eagle trip. Notify Ted Hitch if you want join the Sloughs trip. Steve Heeger, president, convened the board meeting. October and November meeting minutes were approved as printed. Treasurer Dick Vernier reported as of 11/30/07. Income: education donations $986.00, NAS incentive $35.00, interest $5.41. Expenses: conservation calls/copies, $6.00; newsletter printing, $40.00; mailing supplies, $27.53. Balances: checking, $5792.34; six-month CD, $4386.92 (renewed to 5/29/08 at 4.85%), bulk mail, $171.08. All accounts $10,350.34. The donation letter has brought in a total of $1,591.00, including $100.00 employer match. Education. Ted Hitch’s interview shown on FOX 7 at 6:25 am about the Christmas Bird Count was noted. Carol Pettys reminded people to save Audubon magazines for the Birding Festival. She requested $600 in education funds for summer camp scholarships to Wesselman to be awarded to fifth graders recommended by teachers because of their interest in nature. A motion by Sue Vernier, seconded by Lois Schmidt to this effect was passed. Conservation. The construction of the kiosk at Cane Ridge has been delayed again. It should be done in time for the Birding Festival in May. Sue Vernier makes periodic reports to National about this since they provided a grant toward funding the kiosk. Bird Reports. Sharon Sorenson suggested people watch for Redpolls as they have been found as far south as Indianapolis. Meeting adjourned at 8:30. Carolyn Bennett, secretary
EAS Minutes Steve Heeger, president, convened the board meeting at 8:55. Approval of October meeting minutes was deferred until after next newsletter. Treasurer Dick Vernier reported that as of 10/31/07. Income: NAS baseline support, $995.00; interest, $5.01. Expenses: Gift membership to program speaker, $20.00; stamps for treasurer, $8.20. Balances: Checking, $4839.46; 6-month CD, $4368.99; bulk mail, $120.63. All accounts, $9329.08. In addition the donation letter has brought in $971.00 which includes $100.00 from an employer match. Field Trips. Oct. 27 to Rim Rock- Pounds Hollow Recreation Area in Shawnee National Forest had improving weather and 9 participants. Nov. 10 to Hemlock Cliffs in Hoosier National Forest had excellent weather, 11 participants and a good guide. Information on future trips will be in newsletter. [See also Field Trip Reports later in this newsletter.] Education. The group thanked Carol Pettys for a display of ‘thank you’ pictures and notes from previous grants. No new information at this time. Conservation. Sue Vernier reported Congress in recess, so no action there. She and Dick attended meetings on the USFWS plan for Patoka NWR, the proposed waste fuel power plant, and I69. The proposed ethanol plant is on the ‘back burner’. Old Business. Some of the ‘request for donation’ letters never reached their destinations. Information regarding this will be in the next newsletter. Christmas bird counts. Carol needs captains and counters.
Meeting adjourned at 9:50.
EAS Minutes Steve Heeger, president, convened the board meeting at 8:50. September meeting minutes were approved as printed. Treasurer Dick Vernier reported as of 9/30/07. Income: Interest, $3.99. Expenses: Newsletter, $60.00. Balances: Checking, $3867.65; 6-month CD, $4350.52; bulk mail, $205.29. All accounts, $8423.46. Field Trips. Oct. 27 to Rim Rock- Pounds Hollow Recreation Area in Shawnee National Forest. Nov. 10 to Hemlock Cliffs in Hoosier National Forest. For information on January 28 or 29 Bald Eagle Bus Trip to Grafton, IL contact Tim Griffith at Wild Birds Unlimited. Education. Carol Pettys shared ‘thank you cards’ from groups supported by collaborative funds. She is looking for project suggestions. Save toilet paper, paper towel rolls and milk jugs of various sizes for craft projects. Conservation. An area group headed by Chuck Bauer on which the Verniers serve will be submitting a grant proposal to NAWMP (North American Waterfowl Management Plan) in support of Minnehaha Fish and Wildlife Area and Patoka NWR. Since the number of partners helps in getting the grant, Sue Vernier will find out if our support of the kiosk at Cane Ridge will qualify EAS as an in-kind partner. Sue Vernier provided information on the following:
Federal Energy bill – it should be a strong bill with CAFE
standards. Old Business. Plans for May 1-4 Birding Festival are underway. Lectures, programs for families and children, field trips and more. Sounds exciting. Sightings. Sue Vernier reported a mini fallout of birds lined up to drink water: Blue-headed Vireo, Red-breasted Nuthatches, Black-throated Green Warbler, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Goldfinches, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. A total of 7 households reported Red-breasted Nuthatches, the most seen in many years. This eruption is probably due to a scarcity of food (pine cones) further north. Meeting adjourned at 9:50. Carolyn Bennett, secretary
EAS Minutes Steve Heeger, president, convened the board meeting. June monthly and August planning meeting minutes were approved as printed. Treasurer Dick Vernier reported as of 8/31/07 Income: NAS Collaboration NAS Incentive, $40.00; Interest, $4.63. Expenses: newsletter mailing labels, $20.79; Secretary of State, $10.00; Supplies /copies, $9.74; transfer to bulk mail, $200.00. Balances: checking, $3933.26; six-month CD, $4332.71; bulk mail, $248.50. All accounts, $8504.87. Field Trips Steve Heeger led discussion as we are still looking for a Field Trip Chair. October trip previously scheduled. Hemlock Cliffs November 10. With Wild Birds Unlimited to Alton, IL for Bald Eagles in January. Details elsewhere. Education Carol Pettys shared reports from Sharon Elementary 5th grade Wren House Project and Castle High School Garden Project. These were funded by contributions to EAS. A report on a field trip from a Title One school to Wesselman Woods was also circulated. Half the cost had been obtained by EAS as a collaborative grant from NAS. Carol moved and Lois Schmitt seconded a motion to apply to NAS for another collaborative grant (up to $500) to continue to fund half the cost of field trips for Title One schools. Motion passed. A motion to ask NAS for collaborative funds of $500 for the Birding Festival May 1-4 also passed. Conservation Sue Vernier reported that an amendment concerning logging in Tongass National Forest prohibiting the government building the roads passed. The Nature Conservancy is supporting Patoka NWR for the first time. Construction on additional viewing facilities at Cane Ridge will start soon. Old Business Carolyn Bennett will handle the e-mail notification/reminder list. Donation Request letter to be sent soon. CBC dates set. New Business EAS will promote giving Audubon membership as a Christmas Gift. Sightings Carol Pettys – redstarts in yard. Sue Vernier – Green Tree Frog in rain gauge. Ted Hitch – Chestnut Sided Warbler, male Rose-breasted Grosbeak, female Summer Tanager in yard. Mississippi Kite flyover. Meeting adjourned at 9:00. Carolyn Bennett, secretary
|
