June Get Together...

During a balmy June evening, CMNA members gathered for our semi annual Get Together and to celebrate the spring 2026 graduates. This event, held at Holy City Brewing, was the perfect setting to welcome new members to the tribe while reconnecting with fellow naturalists, family and friends. Approximately 45 were in attendance; the gathering commenced at 6:00 on the lawn under the oaks with scenic views of the marsh.

Upon arrival, members were invited to test their knowledge by participating in a challenging trivia activity. Questions focused on a variety of topics beginning with corals, the topic of a recent Walk and Talk with Caroline Heape, to information about Bald Eagles, sea turtles and alligators, all being interpretive volunteer opportunities held at various Charleston County Parks. Guests were also given raffle tickets; one for attending the event and another for recording volunteer and advanced training hours in the Clemson database.

A brief passing shower didn’t dampen our spirits as we sheltered under the oaks. As the sun broke through the cloudy skies, Colin Hocking, our CMNA president, addressed the group and introduced each member of the Board of Directors. He then invited fellow naturalists to consider supporting our organization as a board member, increasing opportunities for additional volunteer hours. A variety of nature themed items were then raffled off, many of them donated by other Master Naturalists. Some of these gifted items included beautiful books by local authors, several native plants, hats, totes, and a hummingbird feeder. A variety of tasty appetizers were ordered for the group, and additional food and beverage items could be ordered on an individual basis. My personal favorites were the “mushroom” mini cupcakes and “native plant plug” brownies created by Caroline for the new graduates.

It was a wonderful opportunity to gather together and share stories, make new friends, and reconnect with other Master Naturalists and their family members. As we celebrate the new grads, we recognize the impact Master Naturalists make by sharing our knowledge and enthusiasm about the natural world, by supporting various environmental and youth groups, and look forward to welcoming our newest members during future volunteer, social, and advanced training opportunities!

Photos by Dianne Kincaid and Colin Hocking.