June 2025 From the Editor’s Desk
Most people do not like change, but change can help you become more flexible, try new experiences, and improve your overall well-being. Alan Watts, a British-American writer and speaker, once said, “The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it and join the dance.” My name is Jeanne Halton and I am the new editor of The Sandpiper. This is a new role for me, but I felt I was ready to take the plunge. So I am jumping in…or should I say flying in 😉 …as your new editor and adding some new features.
First of all, I will have this new column, “From the Editor’s Nest”. I will write about articles you will read in our newsletter, as well as, news or upcoming events.
As many of you may know, our new board members were initiated at our annual dinner, held on May 5 at Captain Bill’s. Jody Banaszak, our past president, swore in the new members. Congratulations! Here is a list of the new GSBAS board:
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President – Joe Abraham
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Vice President – Suzanne Wittenburg
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Recording Secretary – Mary Rasmussen
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Treasurer – Glenn Reed
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Corresponding Secretary – Amanda Wilson
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Past President – Jody Banazsak
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Sandpiper Editor – Jeanne Halton
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Publicity – Heather Gallagher
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Member at Large – Mike Maler
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Brookside Director – Karen Andres
Another feature I am adding is a Q & A with Brooke Ramirez, owner of TWO Wild Birds Unlimited stores. Keep on reading to find out how Brooke got started in the bird business and two questions (with answers!), she is frequently asked this time of year.
One other article I will be featuring is “Parks and Trails on Long Island”. My husband and I love to be outdoors and enjoy finding new trails to walk on. As GSBAS members, you probably have read in our newsletters or been on bird walks led by Ken Thompson, John Gluth and Jack Carlson. In this edition, you will read about some recent bird walks and what birds were seen! If you have a favorite park or trail that you enjoy, I would love to hear about it! I will include it in this part of the newsletter. Just tell me the name of the park and why you enjoy that park. You can email at: gsbas.editor@gmail.com.
I have other great article ideas, but that’s enough change for now! Enjoy this newsletter and get out there and take the plunge and join the dance!
– Jeanne Halton