The Program
Vice President of Programs Laurie Harrison introduced our speaker, Mark Swingle, Chief of Research & Conservation at the Virginia Aquarium. He told us that the mission of the Virginia Aquarium is to protect the marine environment through education and research, as well as the development and promotion of sustainable practices.
Mark is also the founder of the Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Stranding Team which has responded to more than 10,000 stranded animals since its inception. Each year, it responds to an average of about 350 to 400 stranded animals that have either beached themselves or been trapped in fishing lines. On many occasions, the animals are dead. For those still alive, they are rescued, treated for their illnesses or injuries, and then released back into the sea. Team members spend a good deal of time on the road, as they are responsible for all coastal waters throughout Virginia. Typically, they will tag the animals they release back into the water so they can track their movements by satellite. This data is used to gain deeper insights into migratory patterns.
Mark closed out his presentation with some things we can all do to help protect marine life. Among them:
- Never release balloons outdoors. Animals mistake them for food and swallow them which can be deadly.
- Support efforts to mitigate climate change.
- Use reusable grocery bags.
- Conserve energy.
The Meeting
We began our meeting with Bob Heely and his guitar, singing “Over the River and Through the Woods”, along with “My Country Tis of Thee”, followed by the “Pledge of Allegiance” and the “Four-Way Test”. Our invocation was led by Jim Sell.
Club Business
During the visitation report, we were asked to keep Michael Desplaines in our thoughts and prayers, as he has injured his leg, as well as Jeff Wells who is in the hospital with heart issues. Our lone guest and a prospective member was Dr. Stan Turbeville who is Tidewater Community College’s new vice president for institutional advancement. He comes to Hampton Roads from Greensboro, North Carolina where he was a member of Rotary.
During announcements, we were reminded that our next meeting in December will be themed “Pet Day”. We will be encouraged to bring our furry friends to the virtual gathering and introduce them to our fellow Rotarians. Also, due to new COVID restrictions, we will, unfortunately, have to cancel our holiday social.
Volunteer Events:
- This Saturday the 21st there will be a Salvation Army Turkey Distribution from 0700-1100. The location is 880 N Military Hwy Norfolk, VA 23502. Please dress warm and don't forget your mask and gloves.
- Dec 19th Wreaths Across America will be honoring their tradition of laying wreaths on the tombstones of fallen veterans. Please show your support by volunteering as a participant. Further details in upcoming meetings.
Happy Bucks
- Pam and Ace Tubbs have a new grandson.
- Laurie Harrison offered up some happy bucks to honor her next-door neighbor, Mark Swingle, who was our guest speaker.
- Walt Sobczyk to commemorate the two weeks he recently spent with Team Rubicon in Alabama helping to serve people in need.