PRESS  RELEASE

FOR RELEASE           October 5, 2004

 

John Porter, PhD., a member of the board and Past President of the Alabama Ornithological Society presented a check for $2000 to Mayor Jeff Collier of Dauphin Island, Alabama, during the Town Council meeting Tuesday evening. 

The money was earmarked for the Beautification Committee for the planting of native species, particularly those that yield berries, seeds, and nectar, good food sources for birds.

Much of the vegetation and foliage on Dauphin Island was damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Ivan. 

The Alabama Ornithological Society meets every April and October on Dauphin Island.  The October 2004 meeting was cancelled because of the devastation caused by the hurricane.

In a letter to Mayor Collier, Colonel (Retired) Bob Reed, President of the Alabama Ornithological Society said, “We have enjoyed the birds and hospitality of Dauphin Island for decades.  We have watched with sadness the suffering your town has endured over the years as hurricanes pounded you.  We have also been amazed and pleased at your resilience and spirit.

“We are aware that our presence on the island is good for the Dauphin Island economy.  While this check will not replace those dollars that would have been spent during our visit, perhaps it will contribute to your recovery and serve as a symbol of our continuing support of and interest in Dauphin Island.”

The Alabama Ornithological Society was founded 1952 “To foster a greater knowledge of the birds of Alabama and Northwest Florida through observation, education, and publication, and to promote conservation of all natural resources.”

 

Contact Robert E. Reed for more information.