Five Rivers Annual Gathering 2013
May, 2013 – More than 60 members and friends of Five Rivers assembled at the McLane Center at New Hampshire Audubon in Concord for the organization’s 2013 Annual Gathering.
Melinda Gehris, Board Chair, welcomed the group and reported on the organization’s activities in the busy and successful past year. Five Rivers closed seven new easements so that at year end over 3,300 acres were under conservation protection. She also reported that 2012 had been a strong year financially, thanks to exceptional membership support and its new membership category, the Five Rivers Conservation Leaders Society.
Those present learned that Susan Roman of Webster and Michael Lehman of Concord will join the board in 2013. Officers elected for the coming year include: Board Chair, Melinda Gehris; Board Vice-Chair, Margaret Watkins; Treasurer, Rob Knight; and Secretary, Tim Britain. Tribute and thanks were given to the retiring trustees: Carolyn Baldwin; Sarah Pillsbury; and Jayme Simoes.
Gehris also recognized and thanked the sponsors of the event: Ransmeier & Spellman P C and The Works Café.
Margaret Watkins introduced the evening’s featured speaker, Mary Holland, naturalist and author of several books for children and grown-ups on New Hampshire’s wonderful and unique natural life. Mary Holland offered fascinating commentary and stunning photographs, describing the cycle of nature in New Hampshire from March to February. Following her presentation Mary answered questions and hosted a book signing.
