A Former Young Friend Responds

Dear Mrs. Washburn and Mrs. Whitehouse,

It's so great to hear from you!  I hope you're both doing well. 
Whenever I get back together with a fellow Howard Drive alumnus it's great to reminisce about our elementary school days and the amazing teachers we had.

Being a part of Young Friends of the Everglades helped to shape my attitude towards Florida's natural environment as well as nature and the impact we have on our surroundings.  I learned so much in that fourth grade class alone by reading books, writing stories, and the hands on experience during field trips.

The most memorable experience I have is from the camping trip during fifth grade when we went slough slogging.  It was so exciting to be that close to the Everglades, something we had studied so diligently for the past two years.  Trudging through the slough I was fascinated by the creatures we would scoop up and try to identify.  Also, during that same camping trip, I remember waking up early with a chaperone and watching a deer not too far from our tent.  It was a very serene moment.

Since moving out of Miami I've been able to learn about and experience other ecosystems throughout Florida.  The one closest to my new home is the Volusia County Loop, a 23-mile stretch through uniquely Floridian landscape.  This land is currently being threatened by development and as a new Volusia County resident I hope to become more involved in its preservation.

I find that there are opportunities to help protect our environment wherever you go.  During my freshman year at the University of Florida I spent my spring break traveling to Golden Pond, Kentucky on an environmental preservation alternative break trip.  Our group of eight students volunteered for a week at the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area doing various physical tasks to aide in its maintenance.  Also with this group, I've participated in various cleanups through the organization Keep Alachua County Beautiful.

Thanks for all your hard work for Young Friends.  Your concern for the environment had a great impact on me and I'm sure for many of your other students as well.

Danielle Chiu