On Saturday, September 21, 2019, SMAS held its third annual Audubon Adventure Tour fundraiser. And – wow! – we launched our best event to date! We cruised the lower Patuxent River at sunset aboard the Half Shell, a historic and beautifully refurbished working vessel. Our celebration included food, drinks, and friends while we said “bon voyage” to the last of our Osprey for the season.
The Half Shell docks at Solomons Island, directly outside the culinary school No Thyme to Cook, who provided our scrumptious appetizers. All 38 of us departed at 5 pm (ticket sales sold out!) and many decided to try our specialty drink, the Osprey – a Mimosa-inspired cocktail. Beer and wine were offered as well. The artfully displayed and tasty food flew quickly as the sun started its casual descent. Our captain gave an informative and entertaining talk about the area, and for the attendees who were not birders, we also talked about our society’s mascot, the Osprey, and welcomed our generous guests.
The two-hour cruise was filled with tons of fun, laughter, and binoculars. It was also the most successful fundraiser to date. Our goal to expand our Hog Island, Maine, scholarships was easily met. We raised more than $2300, thanks to sponsorships from Chaney Enterprises Foundation Fund and Wild Birds Unlimited, plus ticket sales from our supporters. Just like our Osprey migrate and return to our Maryland shores, we too will have to return and duplicate such a fabulous fundraising event! One More Round!