Courtney Lions Garcia was the speaker last Wednesday, and the topic was Big Bend National Park. Courtney is the executive director of the Big Bend Conservancy, whose mission is to promote, protect and raise funds for Big Bend National Park and the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River. Big Bend was the first national park in Texas, and was purchased and established in 1945, making this year the 75th anniversary of the park.
With 450 species of birds, 55 reptile species, 11 amphibian and 40 fish species, Big Bend has plenty to offer visitors. Three distinct ecosystems define the park, including the mountainous Chisos Basin, the Chihuahuan Desert, and the Rio Grande River.
The Big Bend Conservancy partners with the Park to help improve visitor experiences, and has raised over 3.7 million dollars through license plates, grants and membership gifts. Projects include rehabilitating aging exhibits at Rio Grande Village, restoration of the Homer Wilson Ranch, and a fossil discovery exhibit.
We have another great program this week! William Groneman is talking to us about "The Things We Still Get Wrong About Davy Crockett."
Reminders:
BRING A BOTTLE OF WINE for the SUPERBALL WINE PULL. If you have a bottle that you got for Christmas that you don't like, bring it!! SuperBall is this Saturday night. If you still haven't gotten your tickets, see Amber Thomason or Donna Peterson for information.
February 6th is our 8th Annual First Responders Recognition Luncheon. We will be in the Conference Center in the back of the Inn of the Hills NEXT WEEK.
February 9th is Rise Against Hunger. Bring your kids and grandkids to help out. We're looking for a total of 200 volunteers. We're about 1/3 of the way there. If you want to sign up, please go to
Kristy Vandenberg told us about her great RYLA experience recently. RYLA stands for Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, which is an annual retreat of young folks developing their leadership skills. This is one of many great programs that Rotary organizes and sponsors, and it appears our future is bright with the enthusiasm of these young leaders.
Super Ball is coming this Saturday night. Amber Thomason is heading up our annual fund raiser this year, and has information and tickets available. Please join the fun to help raise money for scholarships and other Rotary programs in the coming year.