Martinez used to have multiple service clubs, the Lions and the Soroptimists, Elk and Moose, but as our population grew and our sense of civic duty receded it devolved into only two. Kiwanis and Rotary. In our Rotary club you will find our city leaders, the business execs and the principals and the least patient people in the town – and in Kiwanis are all the nice people. It’s a simple rule of thumb, but it probably still holds true for our very odd town. At least it was true when I was talking to both about the beavers. And since we have received multiple grants from Kiwanis and I received nothing but thorns from the rotary club, I’m guessing it’s still true today.
It’s not true in every city. I’ve given lovely and well received beaver talks in Pinole Rotary and Pleasant Hill Rotary and even Lafayette Rotary. So I’m not Rotar-adverse.
Which we must remember this month as I venture into Sonoma – what Jack London lovingly made famous as the Valley Of the Moon. But which I will now officially dub “the Valley of the Beaver Moon”.
So apparently I will talk the 19th during their chapter meeting and breakfast. Apparently a member attended the Oakmont Symposium in February and thought it was just what they needed to hear. Okay. The heart-winning story of saving beavers in a cooky refinery town, learning about why they matter, educating Sonoma about their own beavers. I can do that. It;’s been such a weird two years that I can barely remember what it’s like to give a presentation, but sure. I was invited to come for breakfast or Zoom it. And honestly, I’m fine zooming and not ready to surround myself with humans, even for beavers.
So get ready Sonoma to be soon bestowed with beaver knowledge.
