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By  Andy Paul, with photos assembled by Jessica Middleton

The Junior Egrets were back in action last month for the fourth and final event of 2019.  On the afternoon of Saturday, November 2^nd, 14 young naturalists and their family members participated in an introductory junior photography session.  It was an opportunity for all to learn how to use a camera and practice their picture-taking skills, while having some fun.

The session started with a presentation from club member and experienced photographer, Jeremy Bensette.  Using photos from his personal collection, he provided an overview of nature photography that included some helpful tips and tricks for taking photos outdoors.   That was followed by a short talk on the history of cameras by member, Kory Renaud.  With his collection of old cameras from home, Kory gave a short account of the evolution of the camera, from dry plates and 35mm to digital cameras and camera phones.   Next, with cameras in hand our young photographers rotated through three mini-workshops, each with a particular focus:  macro photography using a live tarantula from club member, Jennifer Nantais; taking photos for identification purposes using real plants and iNaturalist; and taking live animal profile shots with Kaww, a ball python from Ojibway Nature Centre. 

Having learned a thing or two about nature photography techniques, our group of young photographers headed outside to test  their skills with a photo scavenger hunt.  They followed the trails through Ojibway Park in search of a variety of subjects, from leaves, to animals, to scenery.  The park’s many sights and inhabitants provided a wide array of photo opportunities, resulting in some terrific nature photographs (see below!).  The event concluded with a group sharing session back at the nature centre, enjoyed with some hot apple cider and cookies.  A great way to end the day’s activities.  

We would like to thank those who donated old cameras for the event, with special mention to Windsor Camera Club members – Linda Menard-Watt, Arthur Rae, Norman Rheaume and Doug Myers. And a special thanks to our very own Jessica Middleton for organizing this event.

The Junior Egret Committee members (Jeremy, Kory, Jess and Andy) would also like to thank all of the young naturalists and their family members who participated in each of the club’s events this year.  The first year of the Junior Egrets Club was a success due to your support.  We look forward to seeing all of you in the new year at the 2^nd annual Christmas Bird Count 4 Kids in early January!        

By JoAnn Grondin, Heritage Committee Coordinator

Our Annual Dinner was held on Saturday, November 9th and went very well, despite some setbacks. Many thanks to our volunteers, those who attended, our speaker Paul Pratt and our MC, Steve Marks. It was a very pleasant evening and I have lots of people to thank. Without their help, this dinner could not take place.  So, thank you to . . .

Ticket Sales:  Carl Maiolani, Ojibway Nature Centre staff, and me.  Our online sales were coordinated by Kory Renaud.

Set up:  Pauline Renaud, Shirley Grondin, Carl Maiolani, Paula O’Rourke, Tim Shortridge and myself.

Reception Desk:  Pauline Renaud and Kathy Lesperance.

Cashiers: Bonnie Ross and Shirley Grondin.

The following members brought desserts:  Cathy Lapain, Shirley Grondin, Paula O’Rourke, Aileen Petrozzi and myself.

Our MC:  Steve Marks did another outstanding job as MC.

Congratulations to Carl Maiolani, our Outstanding Achievement Award recipient for all his hard work over the years. 

Our Guest Speaker, Paul Pratt, for saving us by stepping in when the scheduled speaker had to cancel.  Paul presented and showed wonderful pictures of his recent trip to South Africa.    

To Steve for introducing our guest speaker and for thanking him.

To Pauline Renaud for drawing the names for the door prize winners. 

To the people who donated door prizes.  I don’t have all the names, so will just thank everyone collectively.

For donating silent auction items: Glenn Dennis and the estate of Melvin Dennis, Sheeva Nakhaie, Paul Pratt, JoAnn Grondin, Darlene Stracke, Lynda Corkum, Karen Cedar, the Anonymous donor, Regal Gifts, Doreen Grondin, Cathy Lapain, Christine Doman from Fantastic Sams, Gina Pannunzio, Tony Braithwaite, Kenlyn Bryant, Joan Walker and Mike Malone, Shirley Grondin, Gerry Kaiser, Linda Menard-Watt, The Windsor Spitfires, Jessica Rose, Barb Beck, Aileen Petrozzi, Tracey Colenutt, Steve Marks and Bob Hall-Brooks.

To the staff at the Serbian Centre for setup, cooking and good service.

Thank you to all who attended.  It was a great crowd and despite early problems, the evening turned out quite well!!