The annual meeting was held Saturday, December 6. Members were welcomed and encouraged to share their suggestions and ideas. Minutes of the 2013 meeting were provided, as were full financial reports for the fiscal year.

Laura Bonneau, Visitor Services Manager, gave a refuge update, as Greg Birkenfeld, Acting Project Leader, was unable to attend. Dr. Wade Harrell, Whooping Crane Recovery Coordinator, gave an update on the cranes.

Bylaws changes were approved, Board members appointed to fill vacancies were confirmed, and elections were held for positions expiring this year. Directors for 2015 will be:

 

President - Fred Lanoue

Secretary - Brad James

Treasurer - Linda Lanoue

Directors at Large - Ron Smudy, Irma Schreiner, Linda Swiggett

Following adjournment, there was a presentation by Dr. Elizabeth Smith, Whooping Crane Conservation Biologist with the International Crane Foundation. As always, her talk was both interesting and informative.

Following Dr. Smith’s riveting presentation, door prizes were awarded and lunch was served. After lunch, members were able to visit the store in its new location, and were offered a tour of the refuge with Wade Harrell and Laura Bonneau.

Everyone seemed to enjoy the day and we had a lot of positive feedback. We look forward to reviewing the suggestions soon. Any member that was unable to attend the meeting can send suggestions and ideas to the FAMI email address.