The Third Florida GO Gathering proved to be a charm.  Perfect weather, and a wonderful group of people made for a memorable weekend for GO members in Florida.  Approximately 25 to 30 GO members gathered at Vitambi Springs, a gay owned campground in the Florida glades region south of Lake Okeechobee.  A wide array of organized and unorganized activities provided ongoing opportunites for adventures in the outdoor subtropical paradise that south Florida can provide in winter.  This Florida GO Gathering was a great success due to the wonderful participation of so many people at every step of the way.  It is always difficult to acknowledge everyone by name, when so many contributed so much, but we do have to thank Ron for organizing two great adventures at Archbold Nature Center and at Fisheating Creek.  At the Archbold Center we had a wonderful guided tour of the facilities, which taught us all to appreciate the barren looking landscape of Florida's scrub land.  Kayaking at Fisheating Creek was a relaxing excursion, made even more so by Ron's expert direction.  We should give him special thanks for taking time out before we got into the water, to offer instructions on proper kayaking safety and techniques to those of us who had never paddled, or were a bit rusty.  And, of course, we also need to thank Albert, the gator, who proved quite photogenic and provided more than a few exciting photo-bomb opportunities, though we also must acknowledge that some of the GO members from up north, who had never seen a live gator before, were very much taken aback by Albert's presence.

Other activities were just as exciting and interesting, such as the birdwatch tour of the STA5 restored wetland, led by an expert Audubon Society of the Everglades officer; a short hike along the shore of Lake Okeechobee; hiking along Fisheating Cree; the hay ride on the grounds of Vitambi Springs; and of course, the super relaxing time spent at the clothing optional Vitambi pool.  Much thanks go to the staff at Vitambi that provided great meals, and an attention to detail that made for a stress free environment.  Last, but not least, much thanks go to all GO members who selflessly stepped forward to provide for a fun packed weekend:  Dennis and Virgin, who took it upon themselves to purchase good firewood (and ice) for a memorable campfire at Tamaho Mesa on Sunday evening; to Roger, Greg, and Ed, who entertained us with disco music around the campfire (sans the disco ball); to the unknown angels who showed up with munchies, beer, and wine to keep our spirits up; to Dennis, again, for voluteering as fire marshall, and staying up to the bitter end to ensure our safety, as the rest of us slept; and of course all of you for being so spirited and entertaining throughout the weekend.

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