The Washington Yacht & Country Club was lively Thursday evening as the Washington (evening) Rotary Club gathered for its weekly meeting. After a social period in the Upper Deck, members moved to the Pamlico Room for dinner and business. President David McLawhorn greeted members and guests before having Zeno Edwards lead in the Pledge of Allegiance. Music man Bartow Houston led in one verse of “America,” and Russell Smith gave thanks for the meal.

After dinner, Trip Bliley gave the Health and Happiness report and Zeno conducted the Jack of Diamonds fundraiser. President McLawhorn then called on program chairperson Serena Sullivan to introduce the guest speaker. Attila Nemecz spoke on behalf of the Pamlico Albemarle Wildlife Conservationists. Attila is the public information officer for Beaufort County Community College and is serving his second term as president for the eight-county group of conservationists. Its mission is to advocate, protect and conserve the wildlife and habitat of the Pamlico-Albemarle Peninsula. Attila talked about the healthy black bear population, the placement of pollinators and the “Save Blounts Creek” efforts. He also touched on recent efforts to help save the red wolves. After a nice question-and-answer session, Attila was presented the highly coveted Rotary pen. Before adjourning, President McLawhorn reminded members of the upcoming BBQ fundraiser. All proceeds from this go to local charities. Jeff Larson closed out the evening by leading members in reciting the Four Way Test.