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Minutes of Meetings
of Northeast Texas Field Ornithologists


 

 

 

Minutes of NETFO Meeting, May 7, 2013, Longview, Texas

 

For the final meeting before our summer break we gathered on Tuesday May 7th at Eastman Chemical's Mason Lake.  Nine birders enjoyed a cool breeze, a beautiful sunset and good birding during the field trip to the Mason Lake area.  We spotted 25 species (list follows) with the highlights being the great views of Gray Catbird, Anhinga and Common Nighthawk.  We very much appreciate Eastman Chemical Company allowing us to visit their property. 

 

This ends our regular meetings for 2012-2013.  We'll take the summer off and resume club meetings in September.  I hope everyone enjoys good birding during the summer. 

1.    Anhinga (7)

2.    Gray Catbird (2)

3.    Northern Cardinal

4.    Pied-bill Grebe (6)

5.    Red-wing Blackbird (6)

6.    Great Egret

7.    Eastern Kingbird (3)

8.    Wood Duck (7)

9.    Pileated Woodpecker

10. Barn Swallow (12)

11. Prothonotary Warbler

12. Blue-wing Teal (15)

13. Great-tailed Grackle (6)

14. Great Blue Heron

15. Mourning Dove (2)

16. Orchard Oriole (2)

17. Gadwall (2)

18. Northern Rough-winged Swallow

19. Tree Swallow

20. Coot

21. Green Heron (4)

22. Barred Owl

23. Common Nighthawk (3)

24. Indigo Bunting

25. Scissortail Flycatcher (3)

 

Mark A. Edmund, NETFO President

 

 

Minutes of NETFO Meeting, April 2, 2013, Greggton United Methodist Church, Longview, Texas

 

The regularly scheduled meeting of NETFO was held at the Greggton United Methodist Church in Longview Tuesday, April 2, 2013.  Mark Edmund, President, presided.  Nine members were in attendance.

 

Edmund reminded everyone about upcoming field trips and said the next NETFO meeting will be May 7, 2013.  There was no business to discuss.

 

Next Edmund opened up a discussion on some books which he received for Christmas from his daughters.  He gave a brief review of each book and then passed the books around for members to examine.

 

The first book, The Bedside Book of Birds: An Avian Miscellany, by Graeme Gibson, is a beautifully illustrated book that uses poems, folk tales, parables, and legends to show birds through the centuries.

 

The second book, Avian Architecture: How Birds Design, Engineer, and Build, by Peter Goodfellow, describes how birds around the world design, engineer, and build their nests spotlighting their unique engineering techniques.  This book is filled with many pictures and descriptions.

 

Meeting adjourned.

 

Wanda Bosmans, NETFO Secretary
 

 

Minutes of NETFO Meeting, March 5, 2013, Greggton United Methodist Church, Longview, Texas

 

The regularly scheduled meeting of NETFO was held at the Greggton United Methodist Church in Longview Tuesday, March 5, 2013.  Mark Edmund, President, presided.  Thirteen members and one visitor, Darrell Wilson, attended.

 

Edmund reminded everyone about upcoming field trips and said the next NETFO meeting will be April 2, 2013.

 

Next Luanne Brotherton gave a short presentation on the upcoming Texas Birding Classic, April 15 – May 15, 2013.  She encouraged members to get a team together and enter this event.  Additional information and applications can be found at the Texas Parks and Wildlife website.

 

Next Edmund discussed a project that NETFO could do by writing area birders identified as E-Bird users informing them about our NETFO organization and inviting them to our meetings.  Bob Metzler offered a motion stating that the club should mail out these invitations.  David Weaver seconded the motion.  The motion was approved unanimously by the members.  Gene Peiter asked that information about the club be placed in the Longview Public Library.  All members present agreed this should be done, and Edmund said he would check with the library.

 

Last, Bob Metzler reviewed his 2012 “ABA Big Year” of birding.  He told about all the travel involved, showed pictures of many of 632 species he saw during this year, and told about some of the interesting adventures and misadventures he had during this full year of birding.  This presentation made all the members present wish that they could do this adventure.   

 

Meeting adjourned.

 

Wanda Bosmans

NETFO Secretary
 

 

Minutes NETFO Meeting, February 5, 2013, Greggton United Methodist Church, Longview, Texas

 

The regularly scheduled meeting of NETFO was held at Greggton United Methodist Church in Longview Tuesday, February 5, 2013.  Mark Edmund, President, presided.  Eleven members attended.

 

First item of business Gene Peiter, Treasurer, presented the NETFO Financial Statement for the 2012 year.  He stated the ending balance for December 2012 was $2538.10.  

 

Edmund announced that the next scheduled meeting is March 5, 2013.  Bob Metzler offered to present the program for March on his “Big Year” of birding.

 

Edmund reminded everyone about upcoming field trips and the Great Backyard Bird Count February 15 – 18.  He reminded members about NETFO’s possible participation in the Tyler State Park’s International Migratory Bird Day, Saturday, May 11.  NETFO has been asked to help with morning bird walks and setting up a booth to provide information about our club.  Final details about this project will be discussed in the March meeting. 

 

Edmund discussed that the Greggton United Methodist Church’s Trustees had tentatively agreed to allow NETFO to use the Community Room for an annual donation of $100.  Edmund said the trustees will meet later in February and formally approve this arrangement.  Vera Garlough presented a motion that the organization use this facility with this financial agreement.  The motion was seconded by Wanda Bosmans.  The motion passed with a majority of the members present voting for this arrangement.

 

Last, Mike Dillon presented the video “Bombs to Birds”.  This is a documentary that tells the story of the Longhorn Army Ammunition Plant which is located on the shores of Caddo Lake.  This documentary shows how this plant was transformed into the Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge plus a look to the future with problems that still need attention. 

 

Meeting adjourned.

 

Wanda Bosmans, NETFO Secretary
 

 

Minutes NETFO Meeting, January 8, 2013, Greggton United Methodist Church, Longview, Texas

 

The regularly scheduled meeting of NETFO was held at Greggton United Methodist Church in Longview Tuesday, January 8, 2013.  Mark Edmund, President, presided.  Thirteen members with one visitor attended. 

 

Several business items were discussed.  First, Edmund presented a list of current NETFO members and asked the members present to verify or update their information on the list.  Next, Edmund presented a slate of officers for the 2013.  The slate included: President - Mark Edmund, Vice President – David Brotherton, Secretary – Wanda Bosmans, Treasurer – Gene Peiter, and Director-at-Large – Bob Metzler.  Ray Berry presented a motion to approve this slate of officers for 2013.  Mike Dillon seconded the motion.  The motion was approved by all members present.  There was no other business to discuss.

 

Edmund announced that the next scheduled meeting is February 5, 2013.  The place for the meeting will be announced via email.  At the next meeting Mike Dillion will present the video “Bombs to Birds” about the conversion of Longhorn Army Ammunition Plant to the Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

 

Edmund reminded everyone about upcoming field trips and encouraged members for suggestions for future field trips including a possible Birding Scavenger Hunt.  He discussed NETFO’s possible participation in the Tyler State Park’s International Migratory Bird Day, Saturday, May 11.  NETFO has been asked to help with morning bird walks and setting up a booth to provide information about our club.  Final details about this project will be discussed in future meetings. 

 

Edmund also provided a list of upcoming Birding Festivals for Texas and the surrounding states.  Also, he encouraged members to participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count February 15 – 18.  

 

Bob Metzler showed the members a beautiful calendar he had made using his own photographs of local birds.   He offered to make calendars for anyone wanting to have a copy for $15.  Orders were placed after meeting.

 

Last, David Brotherton discussed the results of the Christmas Bird Counts including the Lake O’ Pines, Longview and Murvaul CBC.

Meeting adjourned.

 

Wanda Bosmans, NETFO Secretary
 

 

Minutes NETFO Meeting, December 4, 2012, SeeSaw Children's Place, Longview, Texas

 

The regularly scheduled meeting of NETFO was held at the SeeSaw Building in Longview Tuesday, December 4, 2012.  Mark Edmund, President, presided.  Thirteen members attended.

 

Several business items were discussed.  First, Edmund announced that a slate of officers for next year would be presented at the January meeting for approval.  Next, he presented a motion that the Greggton United Methodist Church would become our organization’s new meeting site.  Dorothy Metzler seconded the motion.  The motion was presented for vote and the motion was approved by the members.   A motion was made by David Weaver and seconded by Bob Metzler to make a $200 donation to the SeeSaw Children's Place for allowing us the use of their building.  The motion was approved by the members.

 

Edmund announced that since the next scheduled meeting was January 1, and this is the day scheduled for the Lake Murvaul Christmas Bird Count, that the January meeting will be moved to January 8, 2013.  Edmund reminded everyone about the upcoming field trips and the dates of the other Christmas Bird Counts.  

 

Next, Dorothy Metzler discussed the results of the Caddo Lake Warm-up Count that was held on Saturday, December 1.  Metzler stated that there were 20 participants and that the bird numbers were quite low overall, and many that we usually find were completely absent this year. She said that the species total was only 99, the lowest species count since 1994. 

 

There was not a scheduled program for the evening.  In place of the program David Brotherton went over the assignments and territories for each of the the upcoming Christmas Bird Counts.

 

The next NETFO meeting is January 8, 2013.  At this meeting David Brotherton will discuss all the Christmas Bird Counts and talk about the number of species found and any unusual sightings.  Also at this time we will discuss programs for next year’s meetings.

 

Wanda Bosmans

NETFO Secretary
 

 

Minutes NETFO Meeting, November 6, 2012, SeeSaw Children's Place, Longview, Texas

 

The regularly scheduled meeting of NETFO was held at the SeeSaw Building in Longview Tuesday, November 6, 2012.  Mark Edmund, President, presided.  Six members attended.

 

There were several business items discussed.  First, Edmund announced that a slate of officers for next year would be presented at the December meeting for approval. He also announced that our vice-president, Linda Price, had resigned this office.  Next, he talked about the fact that the Greggton United Methodist Church had offered our organization a room for our meetings.  It was decided that this will be discussed in more detail at the December meeting.

 

Edmund reminded everyone about the Caddo Warm-up CBC slated on Dec 1.  He announced the upcoming field trips and also announced the dates of the other Christmas Bird Counts.

Lake O’ Pines CBC – Saturday, Dec 15, 2012

Longview CBC – Saturday, December 22, 2012

Murvaul CBC – Saturday, January 1, 2013

Tyler Audubon CBC – Saturday, January 5, 2013

 

Mike Dillon announced that the IBA (Important Bird Areas) survey was almost complete at Wright Patman and that he and others on the team plan to start gathering data at the Lake  O’ Pines in January hoping to make this area also an IBA.

 

Edmunds introduced the program for the evening.  He showed a video entitled “A Murder of Crows”.  This was a very interesting, informative and entertaining video.

 

The next NETFO meeting is December 4, 2012.  At this meeting we will organize and discuss the upcoming bird counts.  Also at this time we will discuss programs for next year’s meetings.

 

Wanda Bosmans

NETFO Secretary
 


Minutes NETFO Meeting, October 2, 2012, SeeSaw Children's Place, Longview, Texas

 

The regularly scheduled meeting of NETFO was held at the SeeSaw Building in Longview Tuesday, October 2, 2012.  Mark Edmund, President, presided.  Fifteen members and guests attended.

 

There were no business items to discuss.  Edmund announced the dates of the Christmas Bird Counts.  The dates are: 

Caddo Warm-up CBC – Saturday, December 1, 2012

Lake O’ Pines CBC – Saturday, Dec 15, 2012

Longview CBC – Saturday, December 22, 2012

Murvaul CBC – Saturday, January 1, 2013

Tyler Audubon CBC – Saturday, January 5, 2013

 

Dorothy Metzler discussed plans for the Caddo count.  Explaining about the “warm-up count” and asking for participates to sign up for the count.  Metzler issued maps and the count lists to those planning to participate.

 

Next Edmund introduced the speaker for the evening, Cliff Shackelford. Shackelford is a Nongame Ornithologist with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in Nacogdoches, Texas. His topic for the evening was "Who Gives a Hoot: The Owls of East Texas."

 

First Shackelford told about three ways to help conservation in the state.  These are:

Buy Texas Parks and Wildlife Conservation specialty license plates – Horned Lizard,

Purchase a Duck Stamp,

Donate time and money to at least one conservation group.

 

Next Shackelford discussed myths and facts about owls.  There are over 200 species of owls in the world.  Discussing a few of these he went on to discuss the United States’ species and then the owls we should see in our local east Texas area.  Shackelford went over the size, habitat and hunting strategies of these local owls.  He also played tape recording of their calls. Shakleford gave a very interesting and informative program.

 

After a question and answer session, the meeting was adjourned.

 

The next NETFO meeting is November 6, 2012 and the program will be announced later.

 

Wanda Bosmans

NETFO Secretary
 

 

Minutes NETFO Meeting, May 1, 2012, SeeSaw Children's Place, Longview, Texas

 

The May 1 meeting was held at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longview.  Mark Edmund, President, presided.  Six members attended.

 

Mark reviewed the field trips planned for May and reminded everyone that this was our last meeting before our regular summer break.  After a short discussion it was decided to skip our September 4 meeting and instead have a field trip on September 8.  Plans were made to meet at 6:00 pm on Saturday, September 8, at the Iron Bridge on Tally Road.  Mark said he would email us directions to the Iron Bridge area.  Linda Price discussed potential programs for our upcoming fall and winter meetings.  There being no further business, Mark showed Linda Price's DVD on "Watching Warblers" by Michael Male and Judy Freith.  This excellent video presented the songs and breeding habits and habitats of the warblers of Eastern North America.

The meeting was adjourned.

 

Minutes submitted by Dorothy Metzler.

 

 

Minutes NETFO Meeting, April 3, 2012, SeeSaw Children's Place, Longview, Texas

 

Our April meeting was cancelled due to the imminent threat of severe weather.

 

 

Minutes NETFO Meeting, March 6, 2012, SeeSaw Children's Place, Longview, Texas

 

The regularly scheduled meeting of NETFO was held at the SeeSaw Building in Longview Tuesday, March 6, 2012.  Linda Price, Vice- President, presided.  Ten members attended.

 

There was an announcement about a trip to Red Slough in April.  There was a short discussion about this trip; trip plans will be finalized at a later date.

 

Next Price introduced Peter Barnes, NETFO member, who presented a program on his recent trip to Bhutan. Barnes gave many interesting facts about the demographics of this country.  One point about the GNP versus the GNH factor led for more discussion.  The GNH stands for Gross National Happiness.  Barnes used a power-point presentation to show pictures taken during this trip of the landscapes, the people of Bhutan and most important, the beautiful birds he saw there.

 

There were no further announcements or business.  Price will present the program at the next meeting on Tuesday, April 3, 2012.

 

The meeting was adjourned. 

 

Wanda Bosmans, Secretary

 

 

Minutes NETFO Meeting, February 7, 2012, SeeSaw Children's Place, Longview, Texas

 

The regularly scheduled meeting of NETFO was held at the SeeSaw Building in Longview Tuesday, February 7, 2012.  Linda Price, Vice-President, presided.  Eight members attended.

 

There was a short discussion about some recent bird sightings and field trips.

 

Next Price called for any new or old business.  Gene Peiter, Treasurer, presented the NETFO 2011 Financial Statement.  He noted that the expenditures for the year were only $10.00 short of the income from membership dues leaving a balance of $2413.00 on December 31. 2011.

 

There was no other business to discuss. Then Price introduced Mike Dillon, NETFO member, who presented a program on the Important Bird Areas Program (IBA).  Dillon talked about the fact that IBA is a global effort to identify and conserve areas that are not only vital to birds but also to plants and animals.  Dillon discussed the need for IBA.  There are currently 32 in the state of Texas but not any in our immediate area.  He then went over some of the criteria used to qualify as an IBA.

 

Next Dillon discussed the fact that the Corps of Engineers at the Wright Patman Lake in Northeast Texas are currently working to have this area declared as an IBA.  Then he talked about how NETFO members could help with this project. Currently Dillon and Ray Berry, NETFO members, are birding the area each week counting and logging information about certain species that are of interest in this area. He went over the list of birds of interest in this area.   Dillon says others may help by also birding this area and then forwarding this information on to him.  He will email all members the list of birds and the identifying facts needed for this survey.  Dillon closed by suggesting that more information about IBA could be found on the Audubon Web site.           

 

Price announced that Peter Barnes, member, would present the program about his recent trip to Bhutan at the March meeting.

 

The meeting was adjourned.  The next meeting will be Tuesday, March 6, 2012.

 

Wanda Bosmans, Secretary

 

 

Minutes NETFO Meeting, January 3, 2012, SeeSaw Children's Place, Longview, Texas

 

The regularly scheduled meeting of NETFO was held at the SeeSaw Building in Longview Tuesday, January 3, 2012.  Mark Edmund, President, presided.  Seventeen members attended.

 

Edmund announced future field trips and discussed some recent unusual bird sightings.  Edmund then introduced Peggy Harding, member, who gave a review of several recently published field guides.  The guides are as follows:

          Paul Sterry and Brian E. Small, Birds of Western North America: A Photographic Guide,

          Paul Sterry and Brian E. Small, Birds of Eastern North America: A Photographic Guide,

          Kenn Kaufman, Field Guide to Advanced Birding,

          and National Geographic Field Guide to the Birds of North America 6th Edition.

 

Next, Edmund called for any new or old business.  There was no business to discuss.  Edmund then introduced David Brotherton, member, who presented a program over the three Christmas Bird Counts, Longview, Lake 0’ the Pines, and Tenaha.  Using spreadsheets for each count, Brotherton discussed the number of species sighted for each count, Longview (104), Lake O’ the Pines (104) and Tenaha (101).  He then discussed the high and lows for the last ten years of certain species of birds on each count.

 

Linda Price, member, announced that Mike Dillon, member, would present the program over IBA (Important Bird Areas) at the February meeting.

 

The meeting was adjourned.  The next meeting will be Tuesday, February 7, 2012

 

Wanda Bosmans, Secretary

         

 

NETFO Minutes, December 6, 2011, SeeSaw Children's Place, Longview, Texas

The meeting was called to order by Bob Metzler, President.

Dorothy Metzler encouraged everyone to attend Cliff Shackelford's talk at the Michelson Museum of Art in Marshall on December 13, as well as the Birds in Art exhibit which will be at the museum until January 7.  Metzler also reported on the December 3rd Caddo Lake Warm-up Winter Bird Count.  A total of 105 species were counted, with Greater Yellowlegs and Willet being new species for the count.

Mark Edmund passed out maps and checklists for the up-coming Christmas Bird Counts and assigned participants to territories.  Longview CBC will be on December 17, Lake ‘O The Pines on December 26, and Tenaha/Murvaul count on January 2nd.  The Tyler CBC is December 31 and anyone wishing to participate should contact Peter Barnes.  See Activities page on NETFO website for information.

Mark Edmund reminded everyone of the up-coming TOS Winter Meeting in Amarillo on January 12-16, 2012, and of Sparrowfest, sponsored by Friends of Balcones Canyonlands National Wiildlife Refuge, on January 28, 2012.

There being no further business, Linda Price gave a short audio quiz to help us review our bird sounds.  It was very challenging and entertaining.

Peggy Harding, Secretary

NETFO Minutes, November 1, 2011, SeeSaw Children's Place, Longview, Texas

President Bob Metzler presided over the meeting. He asked for any new business.

 

Mike Dillon asked if any members of the club would like to help in trying to get Lake Wright Patman designated as an important bird area.  He said there is some historical data for the area, but more sightings of birds there are needed.  Those interested in helping were to contact him after the meeting.

 

A discussion followed about entering old records into eBird particularly for the Texas Century Club.

 

The officers that were nominated at the last meeting were presented for election to take office January 1, 2012.  They are:

President: Mark Edmund

Vice-President: Linda Price

Secretary: Wanda Bosmans

Treasurer: Gene Peiter

Eddie Ray made the motion to elect the slate of officers.  It was seconded by Mike Dillon and approved as presented.

 

Dorothy Metzler passed out a species checklist for the upcoming Eighteenth Annual Caddo Lake Warm-up Winter Bird Count scheduled for December 3.  Participants and details were worked out.  At our next meeting on December 6th details for the Christmas Bird Counts will be finalized.

 

Mark Edmund passed out information on the "Birds In Art" exhibit at the Michelson Museum of Art in Marshall, Texas with show dates of November 3 to January 7, 2012.  Mark reminded everyone of the upcoming field trip Saturday, November 5, at Lake ‘O The Pines lead by David Brotherton, followed by dinner at Catfish Village and the Owl Prowl afterwards.  Mark also reminded members of the upcoming field trip to the Rio Grande Valley led by Peter Barnes on November 12.

 

There being no further business, Mark Edmund presented a very informative program on "Endangered Species."

 

Peggy Harding, Secretary

 

 

NETFO Minutes, October 4, 2011, SeeSaw Children's Place, Longview, Texas

 

Bob Metzler, President, presided over the meeting.

 

ELECTION OF OFFICERS:  Bob Metzler announced that the Nominating Committee had a slate of officers to present for election at the next meeting in November.  They are:

President:  Mark Edmonds

Vice-President:  Linda Price

Secretary:  Wanda Bosmans

Treasurer:  Gene Peiter

 

FIELD TRIPS:  Mark Edmund announced that the Red Slough field trip scheduled for October 16 had to be cancelled.  The tentative Cooper Lake State Park area field trip scheduled for November 5 is changed to Lake ‘O The Pines and will be led by David Brotherton.

 

CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNTS were discussed and dates set for:

Caddo Lake Warm-Up Count – December 3, 2011

Longview CBC – December 17, 2011

Lake O' The Pines CBC – December 26, 2011

Tenaha/Murvaul CBC – January 2, 2012

 

PRESENTATION:  There being no further business, David Wolf, from Nacogdoches and a VENT Tour Guide, gave a presentation on “Alaska:  Birding on the Edge”.  It was a great program and enjoyed by all.

 

Minutes submitted by Peggy Harding, Secretary

 

 

NETFO Minutes, September 6, 2011, SeeSaw Children's Place, Longview, Texas

 

Bob Metzler, President, presided over the meeting. 

 

Election of Officers -- Bob Metzler and Mike Dillon volunteered to serve as nominating committee.  Gene Peiter agreed to serve again as treasurer.  Peggy Harding declined to server again as secretary.  The nominating committee will present a slate of officers at our October meeting (to be voted on at November meeting).

 

NETFO Facebook Group -- Dorothy Metzler encouraged everyone to join our NETFO Facebook group, which currently has 25 members.

 

Field Trips -- Mark Edmund passed out two pages with information on field trip ideas and birding festivals in Texas and surrounding states.

 

Programs -- Linda Price announced that David Wolf would present a program at our October meeting.

 

Presentation -- The business meeting was adjourned, and Bob Metzler presented a PowerPoint program on Birds and Birding with photos from his travels.

 

Minutes submitted by Dorothy Metzler.

 

 

NETFO Minutes, May 3, 2011, SeeSaw Children's Place, Longview, Texas

 

Mark Edmund, Vice President, presided over the meeting in the absence of President Bob Metzler.  Nine members were in attendance.

 

Old Business

1.    Speaker’s budget – the group discussed setting an annual budget to use for reimbursing speakers and for making copies of handouts by speakers.  The following motion was made by Linda Price and seconded by Happy King.  Motion passed.

MOTION -- The annual budget for reimbursement of speakers will be $250.  In addition, up to $25 per year will be budgeted for copying speaker’s handouts.

2.    Upcoming Field Trips – Trip to the Sabine Mines area south of Hallsville on May 21.  Contact Peter Barnes for information.  Also bird banding at Tom Walker’s farm this Saturday, May 7.

New Business

1.    Club Development Discussion – the group discussed a variety of ideas related to club development.  No actions were taken at this time.  These items may be revisited after meetings resume in September.

·     Create a Facebook page for NETFO.  Several members mentioned how much they use Facebook to keep in touch with others.  They thought Facebook would provide another good method for prospective members (or visitors to East Texas) to learn about NETFO and our activities.  ACTION – Mark Edmund to discuss with Dorothy Metzler.

·     Create a Twitter account for NETFO.

·     Use club projects as a means to spread the word about NETFO and attract new members.  Two potential projects mentioned were updating breeding bird information for the NETFO area and building and maintaining bluebird boxes.

·     Consider changing the club’s name by adding “and Naturalists” to attract a wider audience.  This could expand the club from mainly a birding club into plants, insects, geology, etc…

·     Restart summer field trips.  The club does not meet during the summer months of June, July and August but some members noted that in the past we still had field trips during those months.

Presentation – Linda Price presented information on Breeding Birds of East Texas.

 

The meeting closed with everyone wishing Daniel Weaver ‘Good Luck’ as he relocates to Indonesia for the next two years.  Daniel has taken a position teaching at a school there.  He says he’ll follow us on Facebook if we’ll get the page up and running!

 

Next meeting is September 6th.

 

Minutes submitted by Mark Edmund, Vice President.

 

 

NETFO Minutes, April 5, 2011, SeeSaw Children's Place, Longview, Texas

Mark Edmund, Vice President, presided over the meeting in the absence of President Bob Metzler.  Mark talked about the good field trip we had to Lake Bob Sandlin and announced the next field trip at Eastman Chemical on April 16th which he is leading.  Linda Price, Program Chairman, had questions about speaker fees available within each year.  Mark said he would get with Bob to work up some guidelines.

Linda Price gave a presentation on New World Warblers.  The presentation gave an overview of warbler species with information about warblers commonly seen in East Texas.  Club members brought books to share that they found useful for learning warblers.  The review also covered using under-tail and under-tail covert patterns to identify warblers seen from below.   Dorothy Metzler, though absent, sent along a print-out of Songs and Calls of East Texas Breeding Warblers.

We had one new member attend the meeting.

There being no further business the meeting adjourned.

Peggy Harding, Secretary

 

 

NETFO Minutes, March 1, 2011, SeeSaw Childrens Place, Longview, Texas

 

Bob Metzler, President, presided over the meeting.  Upcoming field trips were discussed.  Linda Price will lead a field trip on April 2nd to bird the lowlands of Southern Morris and Camp Counties.  On April 16th Mark Edmund will lead a field trip to Eastman.  And Bob Metzler said he planned to go to the Texas Gulf Coast in late April for spring migration.  He suggested that if others plan to go around the same time, they might want to get in touch with him.

 

Next month’s program will be a Warbler Review by Linda Price.  She suggested that we bring any favorite books or other aids on warblers to show and tell afterwards.  Linda also suggested, if there was enough interest, she would give a program on birding gadgets, electronics, etc. at the Longview Library’s multi-media room, perhaps sometime during the summer (although in recent years we have not had club meetings in June, July and August).

 

Peter Barnes, member of NETFO and Tyler Audubon Society, gave a power point presentation on his trip to Peru.  He showed some beautiful bird pictures.  He also told us about some of the places he visited and shared pictures of the scenery.  It was very informative and enjoyed by all.

 

Meeting adjourned.

 

Peggy Harding, Secretary

 

 

NETFO Minutes, February 8, 2011, SeeSaw Childrens Place, Longview, Texas

Our February meeting was postponed from the first Tuesday (February 1) to the following Tuesday (February 8) because of inclement weather.

Mark Edmund, Vice-President, presided over the meeting in the absence of President Bob Metzler.  We had three new visitors.  When asked how they found our club, all said they found us on the Internet.

Member Linda Price asked if NETFO was willing to pay for part of the printing cost for a brochure she had been working on with members of Tyler Audubon.  Members in attendance discussed some problems with it and decided to table the subject for now.  

Linda Price told the group about program ideas she was working on and asked for guidelines on how many outside speakers she should try to arrange and how much of their costs we were willing to reimburse.  After a discussion members decided we could probably afford to pay for two or three speakers per year, perhaps more if they were coming from nearby, or less if coming from distant places and requiring overnight accommodations.

Linda Price shared a DVD about “Watching Sparrows” by Michael Male and Judy Fieth.  It was very informative with beautiful pictures of all the sparrows, their songs, their habitat and maps showing the locations of permanent residents, breeding and winter residents.

Upcoming field trips were discussed.

Meeting adjourned.

Peggy Harding, Secretary

 

NETFO Minutes, January 2, 2011, SeeSaw Childrens Place, Longview, Texas

 

Vice-President Mark Edmund presided over the meeting in the absence of President Bob Metzler.  Linda Price gave a short, very informative presentation on the upcoming Rusty Blackbird Hotspot Blitz scheduled for January 29-February 13, 2011 and handed out some copies of information on the event.

 

David Brotherton, coordinator of the three area Christmas Bird Counts, gave the total species for each count as:  Longview 103, Tenaha/Murvaul 101 and Lake O’The Pines 112.  He gave a report on the high and low numbers of species for each count compared to previous counts.  He also gave a presentation of graphs on how certain species in our area compared with other counts across the Country which was very interesting.

 

Upcoming field trips were discussed.

 

There being no further business the meeting was adjourned.

 

Peggy Harding, Secretary

 

 

December 7, 2010, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longview, Texas.  Bob Metzler, President, presided.  Dorothy Metzler gave a brief summary of the Caddo Lake Warm-up Winter Bird Count which netted 107 species for the 23 participants.  New for this count was the Neotropic Cormorant.

 

Plans were finalized for the Longview Christmas Bird Count (December 18), Tenaha CBC (December 23), and Lake O' the Pines CBC (January 1).  If you missed signing up to participate, contact David Brotherton to see if there are any available slots.

 

After a discussion of our inventory of checklists, patches and tee-shirts, Dorothy Metzler made a motion to sell the checklists for $1.00 and the patches for $2.00.  It was seconded and approved by unanimous vote followed by a brief shopping frenzy.  Mark Edmund shared a list of Texas and nearby upcoming birding festivals.  Thanks, Mark - this is enticing!

 

The evening's program, presented by Bob Metzler, was his TOS 2009 Summer Arizona Trip, with an addition of the 2010 Rio Grande Valley Bird Fest.  The Power Point showed beautiful bird pictures as well as flora and fauna spotted on these trips as Bob pointed out many interesting details about the birds and trips. 

 

Recent sightings and news were discussed.  Meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

November 2, 2010, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place, in Longview, Texas.  Bob Metzler, President, presided.  Plans were made and tally sheets handed out for the Caddo Lake Bird Count, to be held on December 4.  Plans for the other counts will be firmed up at our December meeting.  Longview Christmas Bird Count will be December 18, Lake Murvaul will be December 23, and Lake O' the Pines and Tyler will both be January 1.  Also David Brotherton has scheduled the Owl Prowl for Nov. 13.

 

Linda Price and Peter Barnes have collaborated on a brochure that would be useful for new birders.  Linda asked if the NETFO group would share expenses with Tyler Audubon to get a larger number printed at one time.  There was discussion of this and Linda offered to get more information about printing costs.

 

After a short discussion Eddie Ray made a motion to post the NETFO bird checklist on the website. Candy Troop seconded the motion and it was approved by unanimous vote.  It was suggested and agreed that our checklist, patches, and T-shirts be brought to the next meeting.

 

The evening's program, presented by Mark Edmund, was "State Birds."  The Power Point presentation included great photos of all the state birds with interesting facts about the adoption of birds by the individual states.  Cardinal was the #1 most popular choice with seven states adopting it as their State Bird.  Women's groups and school children heavily influenced many of the state choices.  Everyone learned something from this interesting program.

 

Next month's program will be "Birds of Arizona" presented by Bob Metzler.  Recent sightings and other news were discussed.  Meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

October 5, 2010, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longview, Texas. A slate of officers was presented and elected: 

President: Bob Metzler

Vice President and Field Trip Coordinator: Mark Edmund

Secretary: Peggy Harding

Treasurer: Gene Peiter

Programs and Membership: Linda Price

Notifications and Information: Candy Troop

Webmaster: Dorothy Metzler

 

Dates for upcoming Christmas bird counts were discussed, but not finalized.  The Caddo Lake count will be December 4.  Mark Edmund is working on field trips to LeTourneau Bottoms and Red Slough, probably  in February.  The evening's program, presented by Bob Metzler, was a Power Point of outstanding photos titled, "Birds, Mammals, Flowers, and Scenes in Alaska" from a June 2009 TOS trip led by Jim Hailey.  It was delightful to see the birds in full breeding plumage.

 

Members discussed recent bird sightings and news.  The meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

September 7, 2010, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longview, Texas.  Wanda Bosmans presided for Bob Metzler. 

 

Nominations for officers were taken from the floor: 

Linda Price for programs, nominated by H. King.

Gene is willing to continue as treasurer.

Linda Price volunteered to work on membership as well as programs.

Bob Metzler was nominated for president by Dillon.

Mark Edmond volunteered for vice president and field trip coordinator.

Peggy Harding volunteered to replace Happy as recording secretary.

David Brotherton will coordinate bird counts,

Candy will be contacted about continuing to do postcards.

Dorothy Metzler will maintain the website.

This slate will be presented for vote at the October meeting.

 

Members were reminded to renew their Limited Use Permits this month.  Upcoming field trips were discussed.  The field trip to Richland Creek NWR has been changed to Saturday, September 18.  Eastman fieldtrip - September 25.  Please make reservations with Mark or Peter ASAP.  An owl prowl is tentatively scheduled at this point.

Oct. 2 - Camp Tyler

Oct. 16 - Lake Tawakoni

Nov. 6 - Sabine Mining

 

Christmas Bird Counts were tentatively scheduled and will be firmed up at our October meeting:

Dec. 4 - Caddo Lake Warm-up Count

Dec. 18 - Longview

Dec. 23 - Lake O' the Pines

Dec. 26 - Tenaha

Jan. 1 - Tyler

 

A power point program on Ebird was presented by David Brotherton, Luanne Brotherton, and Linda Price. This online birding data program is a great tool for garnering data about bird distribution, hot-spots and additionally for keeping track of your personal records of sightings. The site includes access to data about birds world-wide as well as North America. Linda showed us how to use the information to actually increase our skills as birders out in the field.

 

Recent bird sightings were discussed.  The meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

May 4, 2010, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longiew, Texas.  Bob Metzler, president, presided.

 

Peggy Harding presented a PowerPoint program on her recent trip to Costa Rica.  Her informative program included excellent photos, maps, and an amusing account of an adventure-filled three weeks of birding in the tropics. Thanks also to Linda Price for her assistance with the photo editing, PowerPoint, and computer.  This was a wonderful program to wind up our spring meetings.

 

The members discussed recent bird sightings and other news.

 

It was noted that meetings will be suspended for the summer and will reconvene the first Tuesday of September.

 

The meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

April 6, 2010, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longview, Texas.  Wanda Bosman  presided.

 

Two visitors were introduced.

 

Linda Price presented a Power Point program on "Birding in Ontario," based on several years of birding experience in that area.  Her informative program included maps and excellent photos of many birds (including Grey Owl, Snowy Owl, and Barred Owl) and was enjoyed by all.

 

The members discussed recent bird sightings and other news.

 

May's program will be a report on a recent trip to Costa Rica by Peggy Harding.

 

The meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

March 2, 2010, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longview, Texas.  Bob Metzler, President, presided.

 

In new business, it was decided that Candy will e-mail the monthly "cards" to those with e-mail access.

 

"Birding Optics" was the power point program presented by Mark Edmund. His research was very informative and led to a lively discussion.

 

Linda Price will present "Birding in Ontario" at the April meeting.

 

The members discussed recent bird sightings and other news.

 

The meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

February 2, 2010, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longview, Texas.  Bob Metzler, President, presided.

 

Two visitors from Mount Pleasant were introduced.  Members and visitors discussed recent bird sightings and other news.  Happy King shared photos and commentary from Tropical Birding's Aug.'09  NW Ecuador Introtour and Nov. '09 at La Selva Jungle Lodge, Ecuador.

 

The meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

January 5, 2010, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longview, Texas, with fifteen members present.  Bob Metzler, President, presided.

 

Dorothy Metzler reported on the results from the Caddo Lake Bird Count.  David Brotherton summarized the results from the Longview, Lake of the Pines, and Tenaha Christmas Bird Counts.  Everyone enjoyed the "Texas Highs" quiz for our NETFO area bird counts.

 

Linda Price and Donna Orr reported on their experience hearing a Northern Saw-whet Owl near Tenaha.  Wanda Bosmans scheduled volunteers to do programs for the rest of our spring meetings.  The members shared recent bird sightings and other news.

 

The meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

December 1, 2009, NETFO General Membership Meeting


NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longview, Texas.  Bob Metzler, President, presided.

 

Members continued finalization of plans for the Caddo Lake Winter Bird Count on December 5 and the following Christmas Bird Counts:

Longview - Dec. 19; Lake O' the Pines - Dec. 26; Tenaha/Lake Murvaul - Jan. 2.  If you have an interest in participating in one of these counts, please contact Bob or Dorothy Metzler.

 

Questions by one member led to a lively discussion of owl behavior and sightings.  The members shared recent bird sightings (from Ecuador to East Texas) and other news.

 

The meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

November 3, 2009, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longview, Texas.  Bob Metzler, President, presided.

 

Members discussed plans for the following bird counts:  Caddo Lake on Dec. 5, Longview on Dec. 19, Lake of the Pines on Dec. 26, Tenaha/Lake Murvaul on Jan. 2.  If you have an interest in participating in any of these counts, please contact Bob Metzler.

 

The evening's program, presented by Mike Dillon, was a Power Point show of photographs taken during his trip to the northern part of Australia in October 2008.  Included were beautiful images of birds and dragonflies. After the program members shared recent bird sightings and other news.

 

The meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

October 6, 2009, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longview, Texas.  David Weaver, Vice President and Past President, presided in the absence of President Bob Metzler who was recovering from surgery.  There were eleven members present and one visitor.

 

Wanda Bosmans told us about her summer trip to Wyoming and gave a short review and some interesting facts and trivia from the book “Amazing Birds A Treasury of Facts and Trivia about the Avian World” by Dr. Roger Lederer.  Dorothy Metzler asked questions from a “Bird Trivia” game which everyone seemed to enjoy.  And Eddie and Nancy Ray told us about their summer trip to Montana and some of the birds they saw.

 

Christmas Bird Counts were discussed.  Dorothy Metzler announced that the Caddo Lake Warm-up Count would be on December 5.  Mark Edmonds said he would contact David Brotherton about the dates for the Longview, Lake O' the Pines, and Tenaha/Murvaul counts and report back to the club.

 

Next meeting will be November 3 with Mike Dillon presenting a second program on his trip to Australia.

 

Meeting Adjourned.

 

Peggy Harding

for Happy King, Club Secretary

 

 

September 1, 2009, NETFO General Membership Meeting -- cancelled due to the program presenter's surgery.

 

 

May 5, 2009, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longview, Texas.  Wanda Bosmans presided until Bob Metzler, President, arrived.

 

The evening's program was presented by Mark Williams, Manager, and John Stevens, Forrester, for Caddo Lake NWR.  They gave a power point program showing the former Longhorn Army Ammunition Plant and an overview of renovations being done to prepare for the September 26 grand opening of the refuge.  The emphasis of this refuge is migratory birds and endangered species like the Red-cockaded Woodpecker.  Although there are no Red-cockaded Woodpeckers currently in residence, it is hoped that the pine savannah habitat they require will be ready for them to move in within 10 years.  In the meantime, the refuge will host hunters, horseback riders, scout troops, and of course, birders.  This may be a good place to check out fall migration.

 

After the program, members shared recent bird sightings and discussed other related topics.

 

The meeting was adjourned.  We will take a break for the summer and reconvene on September 1, 2009.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

April 7, 2009, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longview, Texas.  Bob Metzler, President presided.

The evening's program, presented by Peter Barnes, was an overview and Power Point show of beautiful photographs taken during his recent trip, Oct.-Nov. 2008, to Madagascar. Included were images of many species endemic to the island. 

During a discussion of upcoming field trips and programs, it was noted that May 5 will be our last meeting until September 2009. We hope to have Mark Williams with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Dept. presenting a program on Caddo Lake NWR at the May meeting in preparation for the opening of the refuge to the public.

The members shared and discussed recent bird sightings.

The meeting was adjourned.

Happy King
Club Secretary

 

 

March 3, 2009, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longview, Texas.  Bob Metzler, President, presided.

Peggy Harding gave a power point program about her trip to Alaska this past June.  Her travels included birding from southern Alaska to northern Alaska and back.  The photos and descriptions had us all tempted to grab binoculars and head north.

Following the presentation and club business, members shared recent bird sightings and field trips.

Meeting was adjourned.

Happy King
Club Secretary

 

 

February 3, 2009, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place in Longview, Texas.. Bob Metzler, President, presided.

Club business included the annual treasurer's report, submitted by Gene Peiter. Wanda Bosmans reported that she has programs lined up through May.

Mike Dillon gave a program about his recent (October) trip to Australia.  His spectacular photos of native birds, dragonflies and other wildlife left us all eager to log a similar trip. After the photo presentation Mike showed us his camera equipment and shared tips that have proven helpful to him.

Following the program and club business, members shared recent bird sightings and discussed other related topics.

Meeting was adjourned.
 
Happy King
Club Secretary

 

 

January 6, 2009, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place (formerly the Campfire building) in Longview, Texas.  David Weaver, President, presided.

David Brotherton presented summaries of the Longview, Lake O' the Pines, and Tenaha Christmas Bird Counts, and Dorothy Metzler presented a summary of the Caddo Lake Bird Count.  Wanda Bosmans reported that she had lined up program presenters for February (Mike Dillon), March (Peggy Harding), and April (Peter Barnes).  Following the presentations and club business, members shared recent bird sightings and discussed other related topics. 
 
Meeting was adjourned.
 
Happy King
Club Secretary

 

 

December 2, 2008, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place (formerly the Campfire building) in Longview, Texas.  David Weaver, President, presided.  Instead of a formal program, members spent the evening planning for the upcoming annual Christmas bird counts. 
Caddo Lake - December 6
Longview - December 20
Lake O' the Pines -  December 27
Lake Murvaul.- January 1
Tyler - January 3
 
After the planning session,  members shared recent bird sightings.
 
Meeting was adjourned.
 
Happy King
Club Secretary
 

 

November 4, 2008, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at SeeSaw Children's Place (formerly the  Campfire Building) in Longview, Texas.  David Weaver, President, presided. 
 
The evening's program was about Cornell Lab of Ornithology's Project Feeder Watch, presented by Dorothy Metzler, with assistance from Bob Metzler and Candy Troop.  We learned how to become a citizen scientist by counting the birds at our feeders.  Nearly 16,000 participate annually providing important data about changes in bird populations.  For more information go to www.birds.cornell.edu/pfw..
 
After the program members shared recent bird sightings and discussed other related topics.
 
We were reminded that the November 22 evening owl prowl will be preceded by a morning half-day field trip at Eastman, led by Candy Troop.  Meet at the circle at 8:00 a.m.  Be sure to let her know by Friday if you plan to attend so she can arrange for transportation inside Eastman.
 
Meeting was adjourned.
 
Happy King
Club Secretary
 

 

October 7, 2008, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at the Campfire Building in Longview, Texas.  David Weaver, President, presided. 

 

The evening's program was a picture presentation by Stephan Lorenz of photos taken during a summer spent on Buldir Island, Alaska, where he conducted a research project on seabird breeding productivity and nesting success.  His photos and anecdotes were enjoyed by all.  We are looking forward to a future program about his birding experiences in Australia.

 

In new business, the November 22 evening owl prowl will be preceded by a morning half-day field trip at Eastman, led by Candy Troop.  Meet at the circle at 8:00 a.m.

 

Meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

September 2, 2008, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at the Campfire Building in Longview, Texas. David Weaver, President, presided.

 

A program on shorebirds was presented by David Brotherton.  A database of shorebird sightings in this area, during the month of September for the past 10 years was reviewed.  This program left us eager to check out the local mudflats this month.

 

A nominating committee was discussed but no one volunteered.  Instead, members volunteered for offices and were elected by acclamation.  Officers for 2009 are: Bob Metzler - President, David Weaver - Vice President, Gene Peiter - Treasurer, Happy King - Secretary, Wanda Bosmans - Program Chair, and Candy Troop - Monthly Mailout.  Our thanks to all who volunteered.

 

Dates for the Christmas Bird Counts were proposed as follows:

Dec. 6  Caddo Lake

Dec. 20 Longview

Dec. 27 Lake O' the Pines

Jan. 1 Tenaha/Lake Murvaul

Jan. 3 Tyler

 

David Brotherton will lead an Owl Prowl Nov. 22.  Meet at David Beard's Catfish Village (Hwy 155 on Lake of the Pines) 3:00 PM to bird; 5:00 for dinner; owl prowl to follow dinner.

 

Highlights of recent sightings and summer trips were shared.

 

The meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 
 

May 6, 2008, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at the Campfire Building in Longview, TX. David Weaver, President, presided.

 

For the evening's program Peggy Harding showed excerpts from Jon L. Dunn's Hummingbirds DVD. Wow! lots of information and beautiful photography of the wild birds.. Thanks Peggy!

 

Members shared photos and anecdotes from recent birding trips. The next meeting will be the first Tuesday in September, when we will be treated to a program on shorebirds.

 

The meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

April 1, 2008, NETFO General Membership Meeting

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at the Campfire Building in Longview, TX. David Weaver, President, presided.

 
For the evening's program Bob and Dorothy Metzler presented a slide and audio presentation of local and migrating birds and their songs.  This was much appreciated as members prepare for spring bird sightings.
 
Future programs were discussed.  Peggy Harding will present a DVD program on hummingbirds at our May meeting. Members shared recent sightings and "hot spots" for viewing warblers.  It was noted that Hummingbirds have been sighted recently, so it's time to get the feeders out again.
 
The meeting was adjourned.
 
Happy King
Club Secretary
 

 

March 4, 2008, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at the Campfire Building in Longview, TX. David Weaver, President, presided.
 
For the evening's program, everyone offered something, from photos of local area butterflies to "favorite bird species" and "most memorable birding experiences."  A number of members shared their experience participating in the February Great Backyard Bird Count. 

 

Future programs were discussed.  Dorothy Metzler agreed to present a slide program of spring migrants and their songs at our April meeting.  And Peggy Harding will present a DVD program on hummingbirds at our May meeting.

 

The meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

February 5, 2008, NETFO General Membership Meeting


NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at the Campfire Building in Longview, Texas. David weaver, President, presided.  Gene Peiter passed out copies of the treasurer's report.  Wanda Bosmans once again asked members to sign up to present a program or arrange for a speaker for an upcoming meeting.  If no speaker can be found for our March meeting, Wanda suggested that each member be prepared to give a short talk about their favorite bird species.

Bob and Dorothy Metzler presented a Power Point program from Cornell Lab of Ornithology on the Great Backyard Bird Count and Project Feeder Watch with great photos and many tips for feeding birds.  The Backyard Bird Count will be Feb. 15-18, 2008, and more information for anyone wishing to participate can be found at http://birdcount.org. 

Members shared personal "feeder" stories and the meeting was adjourned.
 

Happy King

Club Secretary 

 

 

January 8, 2008, NETFO General Membership Meeting

 
NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at the Camp Fire USA building in Longview, Texas.  David Weaver, president, presided.  David Brotherton presented summaries of the Longview, Lake O' the Pines, and Tenaha Christmas Bird Counts.  Members discussed possible involvement in  hosting a spring 2009 TOS convention along with the Tyler Audubon Society.  A future field trip was suggested for the Mineola Preserve.  Recent bird sightings and photos were shared.  The meeting was adjourned.
 
Happy King

Club Secretary 

 

 

December 4, 2007, General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at the Camp Fire building.  Club President, David Weaver, presided.  Meeting was called to order and visitors were introduced.  David Brotherton led the planning for the Christmas Bird Counts: Longview, Dec. 15; Lake of the Pines, Dec. 29; and Tenaha, Jan. 1.  Dorothy Metzler gave a summary of the recent Caddo Lake Bird Count.  Members shared recent sightings.  The meeting was adjourned.

 

Happy King
Club Secretary
 
 

November 6, 2007, General Membership Meeting

 
NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at Camp Fire USA, 1601 W. Fairmont St., in Longview.  Club President, David Weaver, presided.
 
Ricky W. Maxey,  Wildlife Diversity Biologist with Texas Parks and Wildlife, gave a Power Point presentation titled "An Introduction to Endangered and Threatened Species of East Texas," followed by an open discussion of questions from the floor.  This presentation included highlights of recovery efforts currently in progress.
 
The nominating committee presented a slate of officers which was unanimously approved.
President, David Weaver
Vice President, Wanda Bosmans
Secretary, Happy King
Treasurer, Gene Peiter
(Other officers, directors and committee chairs are listed on the About NETFO page.)
 
The Owl Prowl was set for November 17, with David Brotherton.  Meet at David Beard's Catfish Village (Hwy 155 on Lake O' the Pines) at 6:00 PM for dinner.  Owl Prowl at 7:00 PM. 
 
Plans for the December 1 Caddo Lake Bird Count were firmed up and tally sheets passed out.  Dinner after will be at the Metzlers' lake house. 
 
Members shared recent bird sightings. The meeting adjourned.
 
Happy King
Club Secretary
 

 

October 2, 2007, General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at St. Mary's Catholic Church.  David Weaver, president, presided.  The meeting was called to order and visitors were introduced.

A report on the September 23 hawk watch was given.  There was a good turnout and over 100 hawks were spotted.  Upcoming field trips were discussed including Lake of the Pines on October 13.  (Meet at Pop's Landing at 8:00 AM.)  Also, David Brotherton has offered to lead an Owl Prowl in November.  The date will be posted on the Activities page of this website when that information is available.

 
The nominating committee will present a slate of officers at the November meeting.  We voted to give St. Mary's Church a $75.00 donation.  The comment was made that perhaps our annual donation should be hand delivered since the church did not appear to be aware of us.  David Weaver volunteered to deliver it.
 
The evening's program was given by Paul Bruckwicki, Biologist with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Department, about progress at the Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge.  It is hoped that the refuge will be open for visitors by spring of 2008.  We all got a great preview with the large maps that were given to our group.
 
Recent bird sightings were discussed, and the meeting was adjourned.
 
Happy King
Club Secretary
 

September 4, 2007, General Membership Meeting

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at St. Mary's Catholic Church.  Wanda Bosmans presided in the absence of David Weaver, president.  Attendees included members and five visitors.  Bob Metzler and Mark Edmunds were elected as the nominating committee to develop a slate of officers for the upcoming election. 

 
Tyler Audubon field trips coming up in September have been forwarded by Peter Barnes to those on his email list and also have been posted on the NETFO website.  They should be very interesting for anyone able to attend.  Also David Brotherton will be conducting a Hawk Watch on September 22, at Dangerfield State Park beginning about 10:00 am.  Bring a lounge chair, binoculars, snacks and drinks for a great time watching fall migration.  Tentative dates for the Christmas Bird Counts were set as follows: 
Dec. 1 - Caddo Lake
Dec. 15 - Longview
Dec 29 - Lake O' the Pines
Jan. 1 - Lake Murvaul
Jan. 5 - Tyler
 
The evening's program was Identifying Hawks In Flight, presented by David Brotherton.  David recommended the book, Hawks in Flight by Dunne, Sibley & Sutton and gave some great tips just in time for the upcoming hawk watch.  Now we all know what "kettling" and "boiling" mean.
 
Summer bird sightings were discussed, and the meeting was adjourned.
 
Happy King
Club Secretary
 

May 1, 2007, General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Club President, David Weaver, presided.
 
For the evening's program, Mark Edmund gave a power point presentation, "How do I see what I want to see?"  This program explored the mechanics of optics with pointers for selecting the best optics for the desired usage. At the conclusion, members shared their own experiences with optics. 
 
Recent bird sightings and trips were discussed.
 
It was noted that this was our last meeting until September. We were informed that we will be changing rooms in the fall, but that a room will be made available.
 
The meeting adjourned.
 
Happy King
Club Secretary

 

April 3, 2007, General Membership Meeting

 
NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Club President, David Weaver, presided.
 
For the evening's program, Bob Metzler showed excerpts from Barbara Cavin's DVD, "Watching Warblers", by Michael Male and Judy Fieth. The photography and audio were spectacular and served as an excellent review.
 
Recent bird sightings were shared.  Renewal of our application for use of the room at St. Mary's was discussed.  We'll need to apply again in June.
 
Next month will be our last meeting before summer break.  Mark Edmund will present the program, and his topic will be Birding Optics.
 
The meeting adjourned.
 
Happy King
Club Secretary
 

March 6, 2007, General Membership Meeting

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at St. Mary's Catholic Church.  Club President, David Weaver, presided.

 
An application has been made and approved for our meetings at St. Mary's Catholic Church until June.  We'll need to re-apply at that time for the following year.
 
Recent bird sightings were shared.
 
The evening's program was Dragonflies and Damselflies, presented by Mike Dillon.  Great photos of Dragons and Damsels and very informative.  Now we all have an exciting new project for the summertime!
 
The meeting adjourned.
 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

February 6, 2007, General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 at St. Mary's Catholic Church.  Club President, David Weaver, presided.
 
Members and guests were welcomed.  David Weaver reported on the February 3 field trip.  Another trip is scheduled for Eastman on February 10 at 8:00 a.m.  Wanda Bosmans reported on the program
schedule for 2007.  Wanda then led the evening's member participation program.  Members brought their favorite field guides and bird books to review and share.  Highlights included a book report on The Big Year, given by Bob Metzler, and Bird IPods from Candy Troop's electronic toy box.
 
The meeting adjourned.
 
Happy King
Club Secretary
 

January 2, 2007, General Membership Meeting

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 at St. Mary's Catholic Church.  Club President, David Weaver, presided.  Members and guests were welcomed.  David Brotherton reviewed the data from the Longview, Lake of the Pines, and Tenaha Christmas bird counts.  Among other observations, it was noted that the Loggerhead Shrike was not found at either Lake of the Pines or Longview.

 
A financial statement was given by Gene Peiter.  Plans were discussed for visiting the Wood Duck roost at LeTourneau Bottoms.  Program ideas and suggestions were discussed.  Wanda Bosmans has offered to schedule programs for our meetings if  each of us will help by taking responsibility for one program this year, either by presenting a program or arranging for someone to present one.  For our February program Wanda asked everyone to bring their favorite field guides, identification aids or birding gear for a roundtable show-and-tell program.
 
The meeting adjourned.
 
Happy King 
Club Secretary

 

 

December 5, 2006, General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at St. Mary's Catholic Church.  Club President, David Weaver, presided.

 

Members and guests were introduced and welcomed.  During the business portion of the meeting members reported on the recent Owl Prowl.  Dorothy Metzler gave a report on the Caddo Lake bird count noting that the 99 species was low for this count.  Plans were made for the Longview bird count on Dec.16, Lake O' the Pines bird count on Dec. 30, and Tenaha bird count on Jan. 1.  Candy Troop will send meeting reminder post cards beginning in January.  Wanda Bosmans has a sign up sheet for future programs and is encouraging everyone to be ready to fill it in at the next meeting.

 

The evening's program was a PowerPoint presentation of birds and other photos by Bob Metzler. Detailed photos of many species we can expect to see on the bird counts were shown along with discussion of their identifying marks.

 

The meeting adjourned.

 

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

 

November 7, 2006, General Membership Meeting

 
NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 at St. Mary's Catholic Church.  Club President, David Weaver, presided.
 
Members and guests were introduced and welcomed.  During the business portion of the meeting a slate of officers was nominated and elected as follows:
President - David Weaver
Vice President - Bob Metzler
Secretary - Happy King
Treasurer - Gene Peiter
Webmaster - Dorothy Metzler
Bird Reports - Peter Barnes
Bird Statistics - Mike Dillon
Publicity/Hospitality and Postcard Mailout - Candy Troop
 
Dates were set for Christmas Bird Counts: Caddo (Dec. 2), Longview (Dec. 16), Lake of the Pines (Dec. 30), and Tenaha (Jan 1).
 
The evening's program was postponed due to technical difficulties and will be presented by Bob Metzler at the December meeting.  Dorothy Metzler shared an article discussing quality binoculars under $200, and members shared their favorite field guides.  The meeting adjourned.
 
Happy King

Club Secretary 

 

October 3, 2006, General Membership Meeting 

NETFO Members held their regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 at St. Mary's Catholic Church.  Club President, David Weaver, presided.  Members and guests were introduced and welcomed.  During the business portion of the meeting the need for additional members on the nominating committee was discussed.  Future field trip possibilities were suggested.  A suggested contribution of $75.00 to St. Mary's for building usage was voted upon and passed.
 
The evening's program was presented by Gina Donovan, Communications Director of the Texas Committee on Natural Resources (TCONR) and director of the Neches River Protection Initiative.  She gave an overview of the proposed Neches River National Wildlife Refuge, which will protect 25,000 acres of bottomland hardwood habitat for migratory birds and other animals.  She discussed the threats to the Neches River by the proposed Fastrill and Rockland Reservoirs, and the need for a study of the entire river in order to obtain designation under the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.  She also discussed the current situation on Texas state park funding and asked that members and friends contact their representatives to voice their support for protection of the Neches River as well as funding for our state parks.
 
Upcoming field trips of interest will be posted on the web page.  Interesting bird sightings were noted.   
The meeting adjourned.
 
Happy King
Club Secretary
 

September 5, 2006, Field Trip

In lieu of our regular meeting, a dozen NETFO members and friends met at the Iron Bridge area of Mason Lake on Eastman's property for an evening field trip. Wood Storks, a Roseate Spoonbill, a Green Heron, a Tricolored Heron, Great Blue Herons, Great Egrets, White-faced Ibis, Wood Ducks, Red-shouldered Hawk, a Yellow Warbler and others were observed. Wildlife in and around the lake that provided entertainment included nutria, raccoons, and a beaver. The trip adjourned after sunset, and bats were spotted flying by as we arrived back at our vehicles.
 
Happy King, Club Secretary
with additional input from Mark Edmund
 

May 2, 2006, General Membership Meeting

NETFO members held their regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Club President, David Weaver, presided. The program for the evening, presented by Dr. Ron Gutberlet, was a powerpoint of Birding the Lower 48: A 2005 Big Year. During his big year, Ron birded in all 48 states and listed in excess of 640 species! After the program, members were reminded that we will not meet again until Sept. 5th. Members were asked to think about program ideas and fieldtrips for next year. Meeting was adjourned.

 
Happy King
Club Secretary
 

April 4, 2006, General Membership Meeting

NETFO  Members held their regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Club President, David Weaver, presided.
 
Members and guests were welcomed. We were delighted to have two presentations this evening. The first, by Diya Sikka, was on Block Printing: The Art and History. Diya used her own beautiful print of a kingfisher to illustrate the step by step process of making a block print.

 
The second presentation was by Beverly Grage, a rehabilitator of raptors and large birds of prey, from Lindale, Texas. She gave a PowerPoint presentation depicting her recent rehabilitation activities. People in need of a rehabilitator for any injured wild animal can call Texas Parks and Wildlife for a rehabilitator referral in their area. 
 
During the business portion of the meeting, members were given a reminder to pay annual dues if they have not already done so. Don Kiser is updating the mailing list. There is a need for someone to serve on the Raptor Rehabilitation Advisory Committee Board. An invitation was extended for any who wish to attend a presentation by Mark Klym, on Hummingbirds and Wildflowers, at the Tyler Audubon and Native Plants joint Meeting, April 11, 7:00 at the Pollard Methodist Church in Tyler. He will also do a book signing at Barns and Noble from 4:00-6:00, that same day. NETFO tee shirts are on sale from Candy Troop at the bargain price of $10.00.
 
Meeting was adjourned.
 
Happy King
Club Secretary
 

March 7, 2006, General Membership Meeting

NETFO Members held their regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Club President, David Weaver, presided.
 
Members and guests were introduced and welcomed. During the business portion of the meeting, members were reminded to pay annual dues if they have not already done so. Bob Metzler is still working on formation of a team for the Birding Classic in late April. An invitation was extended for any who wish to attend a presentation by Mark Klym, on Hummingbirds and Wildflowers, at a joint meeting of the Tyler Audubon and Native Plant societies, April 11, 7:00 at Pollard Methodist Church, 3030 New Copeland Road in Tyler. Suggestions for future field trips would be welcome. Dencil Marsh gave an update on the Longview Arboretum.
 
Since the scheduled speaker was not able to come, the evening's program was presented by Dorothy and Bob Metzler.  They shared excerpts from CD's, Flight Calls of Migratory Birds by William Evans and Michael O'Brien, and Birding by Ear by Dick Walton and Robert Lawson.
 
The meeting adjourned.
 
Happy King
Club Secretary
 

 

February 7, 2006, General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO Members held their regularly scheduled meeting at 6:30 at St. Mary's Catholic Church.
Club President, David Weaver, presided.
 
Weaver welcomed members and guests.  During the business portion of the meeting, formation of a team to send to the Texas Birding Classic in April was discussed. Also Mark Edmund gave a summary of the Feb. 4 field trip to Eastman, where 65 bird species were sighted. Additionally, there are two more trips scheduled for February, a woodcock "hunt" at Lake of the Pines on the 18th, and Lake Bob Sandlin on the 25th.
 
The evening's program was presented by Vanessa Adams, an Area Biologist, from Texas Parks and Wildlife.  She gave a power point presentation of the Caddo Lake Wildlife Management Area with an emphasis upon birding in the area.
 
The meeting adjourned.
 
Happy King
Club Secretary

 

 

January 10, 2006, General Membership Meeting

 

NETFO Members held their regularly scheduled meeting after completion of Bird Counts, on January 10, 2006, at St. Mary's Catholic Church.  Club President, David Weaver, presided.
 
Weaver welcomed members and guests. During the business portion of the meeting future field trips were proposed and three trips were scheduled: Jan. 28 (Eastman), Feb. 18 (Lake of the Pines), and Feb. 25 (Lake Bob Sandlin). Future programs were discussed and new program ideas would be welcomed.
 
The evening's program, presented by David Brotherton, was The CBC Results and What They Might Tell Us, comparing results for the past 10 years. Also pictures were shared of the Brown Pelican and the White-winged Scoter visiting at Eastman.
 
The meeting adjourned.

Happy King

Club Secretary

 

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