Marilyn S. Henick
5439 Winters Way
Greensboro, NC 27410

May 9, 2002

Dr. George Ward Shannon, Jr.
Director, NC Maritime Museum
315 Front Street
Beaufort, NC 28516-2124

Re: Wildlife Weekend 4/26 - 4/28
Museum Staff: Keith Rittmaster and 2 volunteers, Allen & Hugh

We received information about this trip through the Asheboro Zoo. The representative from the zoo, Amy, worked with the Maritime Museum staff. Each of these individuals helped prepare for the weekend and provided gracious and informative leadership for each of the participants throughout the weekend.

Keith, the Program Coordinator/Naturalist was multifaceted in the knowledge he was able to share. Topics covered included: dolphin research, how the old Coast Guard station was powered, tides, Loggerhead Turtles and much more.

Members of the leadership team were concerned for each participant and were open to learn from his/her input. Keith's slide presentation about dolphin research was fascinating. A video by Amy explained and demonstrated the purpose for training sea lions and Harbor seals and further enriched the weekend.

Accommodations were "bare bones", but clean. Plenty of food was provided and participants and "staff" worked together to prepare the food and to clean up. A culinary highlight was Saturday night dinner: salmon and veggies grilled by Keith, shrimp prepared by Hugh, brownies by Hugh's wife and again, a special companionship shared by folks with interest and concern for our environment.

The group varied in age from probably mid thirties to early seventies. We were the oldest folks and found that super care was taken of everyone to insure their safety.

Keith has strong leadership skills but he could not have conducted such a well rounded experience with the assistance of Hugh and Allen. Amy was a large bonus. It was obvious to each of us that a great deal of planning and preparation was necessary for this to have been a fine experience for every interested person.

Keith and the volunteers were well liked, respected and enjoyed. The weekend was filled with a closeness to nature and professional insights and knowledge. Information was shared in a comfortable, enthusiastic and inviting manner.

We look forward to another trip offered next spring.

Sincerely,

Marilyn & Sandy Henick