The June 21st, 2023 members’ meeting had a full agenda for the evening. Dinner consisted of BBQ, baked beans, salads and a variety of deserts. As usual, the cooking crew did a great job.
The 2023 Scholarship Award was presented to Hayley Cherry by Scholarship committee chair, David Perdue. Hayley was presented with a certificate and a check for $1,000.00. Hayley was accompanied by her parents Ross and Tara Cherry. The scholarship committee selected Hayley from a group of five qualified applicants.
She will be going to Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. And for her major she said “I would like to double major in sustainability development with a concentration in Environmental Studies and Recreation Management with a concentration in Outdoor Experiential Education”.
Two new members, Randy Rowell (left) and Justin Ausura (right) were sworn in by Chapter President, Chris Ferguson. Welcome to the chapter gentlemen!
Chapter Vice president, Darden Langston (below), reminded members that chapter elections will be held at next month’s members meeting on the 19th of July. The slate of officers and board members were reviewed and the floor was opened for nominations.
The guest speaker for the evening was Chapter Treasurer, Tim Doxey. Tim gave a talk on the history of the chapter park from receipt of the original parcel of land in 1963, building of the dam and ranges in 1965 as well as the building of the gazebo and other park improvements up until today. He also explained the how and why each of the additional parcels of land have been added to the park over the years. The current status of the plan to make alterations to the dam outfall was explained including necessary actions going forward.
A discussion on how to protect and improve the park for future generations was included. The chapter is at an important point in our history. The park is being surrounded by development, our membership is growing, and we want to leave a legacy to IKES of the future. The session was concluded by a question-and-answer session.