I hope you're enjoying the beautiful fall colours and the interesting fall bird migration. I was in Canatara Park two days in early September when the trees were full of warblers. Recently I rode my bike to the lighthouse in Point Edward and saw a jaeger out over the lake. From late August to early December you may see Arctic birds such as jaegers, grebes, long tailed ducks, and scoters migrating through Sarnia. You will have a good chance of seeing some of these birds if you join Alf Rider on his outing on Nov 9 at the lighthouse. Alf is also leading a trip to Kettle Point on Oct 26 to look for migrating shorebirds. If you would like to see migrating raptors, there are two excellent locations in the area - Hawk Cliff, near Port Stanley and Holiday Beach near Windsor. > I'm very happy to inform you that Kim Gledhill has volunteered to lead our Young Naturalists and she has obtained the sponsorship of the St Clair Conservation Authority. Kim is busy lining up the 2002-03 program and I know she would welcome your ideas and assistance. > I would like to thank Peter and his committee for their efforts to purchase the Maylard property. It is still possible that we will be able to acquire some or all of it at a future date, but as explained by Peter in the last EARTHWAYS, the owner is looking at the possibility of developing part of it. The money raised will be held in a dedicated account and will be used for future acquisitions of properties with natural significance. > Over the years LWI has used various ideas to promote membership in the club. With Floyd Elliott's guidance the Membership Promotion Committee has put some of these excellent ideas back into use. Watch for eye-catching advertisements in the Sarnia Observer promoting LWI. Look for LWI pamphlets displayed in stores and public buildings around Sarnia, Corunna and Bright's Grove. And remember - word of mouth is one of the best ways to get new members. Keep talking up LWI to your friends, neighbors and relatives. > Diane |