(Editor’s note: I received this lovely note in my inbox this morning from soon-to-be UVA Graduate, Scott Connuck, and eagerly share it’s heartfelt message with you. A little piece of good news is so refreshing… Thanks for taking the time to write us, Scott. MBC sends its best wishes to you.)
Birding with Friends
In September 2013, only two weeks into my start at UVA, I stumbled upon a little stand at the Downtown Mall’s Farmer’s Market representing MBC. It was well-timed, because over the previous summer my affinity for birds and birding had blossomed into a bit of an obsession, especially when compared to (the lack thereof in) my collegiate peers. Though I had no means of transportation, I immediately gravitated towards the club, and decided to give one of its field trips a try. It was on a fateful Saturday morning, when most of my friends would sleep in (likely inebriated) until about noon, that I rendezvoused with Lou Tanner at the crack of dawn to go to Fan Mountain. I’ve been hooked ever since.
While with MBC, I’ve seen many bird species for the first time. From a Ruddy Duck to a Hooded Warbler to a Killdeer, I will always treasure what I found with the club. However, more than just the nature, I found generosity and good-naturedness among those attending club events. I always felt welcome on hikes, and found the club a consistent, comfortable place for me to mingle over my four years in Charlottesville. As I graduate and depart the area (to God knows where), I leave more enriched and reflective because of MBC than I would otherwise have been. Though I will surely stop through town in the years to come after this May, I take this time to thank everyone in the club, especially Lou and Doug Rogers, for the good times we shared. Till next time, I’ll be wingin’ it elsewhere. Best wishes to you all,
Scott Connuck
