February 2009
 
I am honored and humbled to have been asked by the BOD to lead our organization at this vital crossroads in our Refuge's development. As I get to know our members and Refuge staff better, I am constantly awed by the level of knowledge, expertise, and commitment that I see in evidence.   Our new term got off to an incredible start on Sunday, January 18th at our Annual Meeting. With 60 members and staff present it was by far our best such meeting ever! Outgoing President Jay Brenner led all on a Cypress Swamp boardwalk stroll that wasa true delight. If you missed it, no problem, he does it every Sunday. New Refuge Manager Sylvia Pelizza told us about future plans and some of the problems we still face, and then we enjoyed a wonderful reception including wine, cheese, fruits, veggies, etc. organized by Joan Davis and her committee.

Going forward I challenge you our members to join with me and renew your commitment to our organization and the Refuge. Positive change has already come to Washington DC and with your help it can also come to the Friends of the ARM Loxahatchee NWR. I ask each and every one of you to help in two areas during the coming year.

One, renew your membership at a higher level and bring in two new members. Two, choose from the following initiatives an area with which you can become involved.
  1. We are restarting our newsletter Gator Tales. Can you help with layout, design, photography, mailing?
  2. We would like to restart our Maintenance Crew formerly called The Grumps (new name needed). Do you like to work with tools-carpentry, electric, plumbing, etc.?  Outside work?
  3. We are revitalizing our Speaker's Bureau to send representatives to area communities and organizations. Comfortable in front of groups, passionate about the Refuge, skilled in power point, willing to learn?
  4. We are starting a committee to develop weekend programs to bring Families and Kids to the Refuge. Have ideas? Like to help?
  5. We are expanding our website to include videos of all our guides and leaders. Do you enjoy videography? Know someone who does? We need you.
  6. The new exhibits will be installed this summer. Would you like to be a roving guide in the Visitor Center helping guests to understand the displays and how to use the interactives?
  7. The Gift Shop has been rebuilt and offerings are being expanded. Like to talk to folks and help with sales? We need you.
Would you like to help but don't see something that appeals to you above? Need more information? How do you get started? Let me hear from you! Working together we can be so much stronger.  

Steve Horowitz
President


stephenjayme@yahoo.com
561-637-9751