FOC Newsletter, President's Letter, Fall 2020
Greetings Friends!
2020 will go down in history as the most unexpected and bizarre year—ever! Every household or business has gone through implausible changes either personally or through someone they know. But Americans are resilient and we forge ahead with anticipation that next year will be better. Let’s hope that is true.
Connetquot River State Park Preserve’s manager and staff have been working hard at trying to manage the crowds, maintain the Mill, the Main Building, the Hatchery and the trails. As if things weren’t tough enough for them having to follow the stringent rules specified by New York State, the crowds increased greatly and managing it became a difficult but not impossible job. They had to restrict the amount of people coming in and even close the park when it was full. And then came a tropical storm! Isaias brought hurricane-force winds which knocked trees down throughout the entire park and shut down electric for ten days. The staff is still cutting and trying to clear paths for walkers and equestrians. There are many piles of firewood being offered to anyone willing to bring a saw and cut it to take home for free. Our heartfelt thanks to the entire park staff of Connetquot for doing a superb job!
Our Lectures are still on hold and our fundraisers have been cancelled with the exception of the outdoor Safari Scavenger Hunt but we are hoping that the Covid situation will end and we can resume soon. For those who have sent donations for our Mid-Year appeal, we genuinely thank you.
Our Gala has been cancelled but we are planning to honor Judge Peter Fox Cohalan, this year’s recipient of the Gil Bergen Conservation Award, with a plaque that will be created and placed near the entrance to the Main Building.
Although our newsletter only comes out quarterly, you can obtain up-to-date information anytime, by visiting the website or check often at our Friends of Connetquot Facebook page. There, you will see frequently updated, interesting photos (submitted by our Board and visitors to the park), along with current news in and around the Preserve.
Summer is over and we watch the Autumn days wane toward the inevitable colder weather ahead, each nightfall coming sooner than the one before. Though the sun is still bright, still brilliant in the sky, it is cooler and the park will be awash with the multi-colored offerings of the trees in reds, yellows, golds, and orange. What better time to visit than in the weeks ahead when you can see the spectacular colors of the leaves and possibly help forget what a crazy year this has been! We hope to see you soon!
Sincerely,
Ginny Fields
Past President's Letters:
Fall 2023
Summer 2023
Spring 2023
Winter 2023
Fall 2022
Summer 2022
Spring 2022
Winter 2021
Fall 2021
Summer 2021
Spring 2021
Winter 2020
Fall 2020