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Friends oF red rock canyon 7

been having health problems for the past eight
months or so and haven’t been able to devote
the time and care to the torts that’s necessary for
them to thrive. I fell in love with them all on the
first day I volunteered and have only grown more
attached over the past few years, so it breaks
my heart to
be unable
to care for
them. That
being said,
I hope that
We had a bit of a slow, cool spring, but once the I can get
weather warmed up all the torts, including Libby, these medi-
got their appetites back quickly. They have been cal problems
eating well, though volunteers only have access sorted out
to the habitat two days a week due to Covid-19 and return
related restrictions on access to Red Rock Can- to regular
yon. The torts are used to twice-a-week feedings, volunteer duty at some point in the future.
but we have had to cancel soaking days for the
time being, again due to access issues. Mojave Finally, I’m delighted to let you all know that
Desert Tortoises have evolved to handle much long-time volunteer, Rebecca Dukes, has agreed
more extreme situations, so there’s no cause for to step up as Coordinator. If you don’t already
concern. They’ll get their beloved spa days back know her, she is a capable, compassionate person
eventually. who loves the torts, and I know she will do an
amazing job.
Good news out of the way, I wanted to let you
all know that I’ve had to step down from the Tor- Goodbye for now!
toise Habitat Volunteer Coordinator position. I’ve
Chelsea

Meet Rebecca Dukes
Inspired by her mother’s selfless contributions to many charities in her small hometown in Ohio,
Rebecca is continuing the tradition of giving back to her new hometown.

Rebecca, an Ohio native and graduate of the University of Akron, has enjoyed a rich and varied pro-
fessional background. Her professional career includes VP of Advancement for five different universi-
ties, healthcare advancement and foundation investments for universities and
nonprofits. Rebecca and her husband, Howard, have been Friends members
since 2016 and both began volunteering in 2017. Her Pandemic Pursuits have
included reading, running (she is a six-time marathoner), cooking new and
strange dishes for a sometimes appreciative Howard, volunteering (at a dis-
tance) with Infinity Hospice Care and binging on Ken Burns’ documentaries.

hat’s not to love about the torts? They seem to carry the
“W wisdom of the ages in their survival as a species and they
have personalities nearly as distinct as ours. Their movements are
graceful and many are attracted to the visitor’s voices. I think they
actually miss that stimulation and admiration right now!”

Summer 2020