We were privileged to have with us last Wednesday Dennis Fogle, the Chief Game Warden in our area for the Arizona Fish and Game Dept., to have a frank discussion with our club members about the issues behind the new regulations prohibiting the feeding of wildlife in populated areas.  He reminded us of the maxim, "A fed bear is a dead bear."  For both the wildlife's benefit, as well as for public protection, he explained why it has become illegal, and why there are some stiff fines, for either intentionally, or unintentionally, attracting wildlife into your neighbodhood.  When food and water sources offered by residents become easier and more attractive than what they can find in the wild, it is natural for them to habitually hang out where these sources are more easily and dependably accessed.  When that happens, they can become a nuisance, and they can endanger residents.  Capturing and taking these animals back out into the wild doesn't solve the problems, since they can easily find their way back to these more attractive food and water sources.

 

Fogle said the new regulations are not intended to forbid attracting and feeding the birds, as long as those bird feeders are located high enough , and are otherwise positioned it a way that most other wildlife cannot reach and raid them. It is only when other animals can reach and eat from them that they become a problem.  He also noted that garbage containers are a favorite target of bears and javelina..  Consequently, he urged homeowners to find ways to position, tightly cover and to secure trash containers, so they cannot be easily accessed and raided by these hungry and resourceful wild animals.

 

 

 

 

 

Pres-Elect Russ Davis appears to be attempting to cheer up Jane White about her birthday, which we helped her celebrate.

 

 

Jane says:  If you didn't sign up, you can still come the day of the event.  Pay at the door: $ 35.00 per person.

 

 

Please mark your calendars for the "Fireside Chat" Open House on March 30th from 3:00-7:00 pm.

 

 

Robert Boehland, the President of the Prescott Little League, explained to us on Wednesday the new Little League policy this year that requires all individuals over 18 years of age, who have any kind of interaction with the players — including volunteers working in our Snack Shack —must undergo a background check.  Tha background check is being paid for by the Little League, so it is at no cost to our Snack Shack volunteers. 

 

Check your email:  Club Secretary Parshalla Wood sent an email to all of our club members following the meeting (on Wed., March 11), providing information on this new youth protection policy, and giving step-by-step instructions on how to register as a Snack Shack volunteer.  Once you are registered, you will receive a link from DPI, the background check provider, to complete the required screening.  It will take 3-5 minutes to complete.     

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are reminding you that the March 31 deadine is approaching for obtaining the club's match of your contribution to The Rotary Foundation, enabling you to become a Paul Harris Fellow, or to advance to the next Paul Harris Plus level of donor recognition.

 

Questions, or don't remember the "Let's Make a Deal" offer the club mailed to you this year?  Call Art Harrington, our Rotary Foundation Chair — (928) 245-0411.