For a Long Walk

Britney, Ryan, and I set off to meet up with Florence yet again. We went back to her house and brought cookies for her this time. Brit and I first began by what we were going to ask her throughout the interview so she could have some time to think about it. So while she was thinking about what she wanted to say, the two of us got the lovely task of tracking down documents in her office. Now, the wall is completely covered by filing shelves and of course that's where we started. I want to do a couple of things for CCCR. I want to not only create the video that will go on the website with Britney and Ryan's help. But, I also want to create a binder or a scrapbook off all the newsletters, fliers and information they sent out to the public. I also thing it would be nice if everyone who got interviewed came to my house for a dinner almost like a little reunion. But, we shall see how things go. Brit and I got lots of information. We got up to Newsletter 41 only missing 10 and 19. And we got copies of all the fliers they put out to create awareness and raise money. We definitely have enough to eventually scan into the computer to put up on the website and document. Then we started the interview. We recorded Florence for this of course. All the questions she answered she seemed to have a story for. She told us how the refuge got started, how they raised money, and most importantly. How she got started. She was balancing her life with four kids, a husband, a nursing job and going to extra classes at San Jose State just so she could learn more about wetlands and the importance they bring to the environment. Florence mentioned the techniques they used to raise money and knowledge. She also brought up the fact that we need people NOW to help protect open land and wildlife. But, she has hope and faith that we will see more people helping our environment in the near future. She says, with this job or hobby, you have to always keep your head up and be optimistic with every defeat and challenge you face. Oh and after the interview was done...Brit and Ryan got to see the black squirrel that they thought was a joke/mystical creature. Then we personally got to walk LaRiviere Marsh out at Don Edwards Refuge with Florence. I was her arm/guide for the day since she is mainly blind. Britney and Ryan took video and pictures to show the marsh that we were at. Florence hadn't seen the updated trail so it was a joyful experience for her. And for Britney and Ryan I think it was an eye opening experience for them. We got to hear several Clapper Rail (a highly endangered species) calling to each other throughout the marsh. Overall, it was a great day, full of learning and fun!