Big Tree Park, Longwood, FL -

When we see her at the Annual Gathering this year, let's all welcome Mary Stewart, who attended new member orientation at the Big Tree Park this morning. After we talked about Wilderness Trekkers and got to know each other a little better, we took a short stroll down the boardwalk to see the Senator and Lady Liberty trees. When we got back, Lynn Van Horn drove up so we chatted for awhile before driving to the Environmental Center for a 3-4 mile hike on the Osprey Trail and a side trip to explore the newly paved rail trail before heading back to check the butterfly garden at the Enivon Center building. The trail is much drier than it was a month ago but water is still too deep to walk all the way out to the Lake Jessup viewpont.

Host: Cathy Edwards

New Member Coffee and Hike - Big Tree Park, Longwood, FL -

Wow! Twenty-seven participants met at the Big Tree Park for danish, questions and answers about Wilderness Trekkers, led by President Shelley Claudin. Eleven were curious about the organization and the rest were new members. Glendon Perkins took the group to see The Senator and then we all went to the west side of the Environmental Center to hike the trail. An air potato pick-up event was taking place at the east side. Thanks to Cathy Edwards for sending postcards, letting new members know that they are welcome.

Host: Lynne VanHorne

New Member Coffee and Hike - Big Tree Park, Longwood, FL -

Thirteen new members or people interested in WT met at the Big Tree Park for danish,fruit, and juice and a discussion of what WT is all about. Four old pros helped the conversation. There was a short hike to see The Senator and then we went to the Environmental Center to hike and explore. We even took the boardwalk to see Lake Jesup. It was fun explaining the reason for cypress knees and to hear the expressions of amazement at all that Florida has to offer hikers. Thanks to Cathy Edwards for making and sending the postcards inviting new members.

Host: Lynne VanHorne