Today is the last day to sign up for the Annual Russell County Bird Club picnic this Saturday, August 25. We need an accurate count to plan the hot dogs/hamburgers. So far 19 folks are signed up. As in the past, the plan is to meet at Laurel Bed Lake in the early afternoon for some visiting, casual birding, and tall tales. Everyone is invited to come. Membership is not a requirement. The club will furnish hot dogs and hamburgers with all the trimmings. Bring a side dish or an appetizer and whatever you want to drink. Remember that we'll be on VA DGIF property and that requires a use permit. If you have a valid VA hunting, fishing, or trapping license or a valid VA boat registration certificate, you're covered. Otherwise you'll need a daily or an annual DGIF usage permit. These are available on-line at the DGIF web site <http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/access-permit/> along with complete information about acceptable permit alternatives. You can also purchase permits at any licensing agency such as Walmart. The weather forecast is for a beautiful day, but it's race weekend so who knows? See you on Saturday! Jerry