In attendance: Arthur, Louis Le, Mike B., Zeke VF, Michael, Ann O’Neil, April N., Lee Olson, Taylor T., Emily G., Pete H., Carlin K., Andrew Kowalenko, Lisa L., AK, Ken W., Stephan, Ava Pope, Ben Burton, Skylar Hopkins, and Elise S. in attendance.
Zeke asked everyone to introduce themselves and then share why people go underground and their favorite fungus. The list below covers only the former:
- to see the edge of the known
- to escape being yelled at for getting muddy
- to have fun
- to explore
- to have an adventure
- to enjoy the fellowship
- to keep doing what she did growing up
- to see an upside down world
- to feel connected to other times
- to learn and be scared
- to escape allergens
- to hear perfect quiet
- to feel awesome and satisfied
- to feel the joy of discovery
Taylor discussed the survey responses regarding the grotto member comfort levels about meeting in person. Grotto members are comfortable meeting in person but would rather be outdoors. Some members said that they’d be willing to check vaccination status of members when we get together. A breakout room was set up after the meeting to discuss how hybrid meeting options might work. Ensuring some consistency in online options will be a goal, and hose interested should contact Taylor at vicechair@tritrogs.org.
Mark D. described a beginner’s trip to Hancock Cave with Michaela, Jan, and Tine. He reported that a massive rain storm took out the trail markers outside.
Louis Le described his trip to Crozet Tunnel in Virginia.
Mike and Lisa described a trip to the historic section of Butler Cave. They first enjoyed the Perseid meteor shower and finished the trip by discovering that the gate on the historic entrance cannot be unlocked.
The only upcoming trip listed was the VAR/MAR event in October.
Mark Daughtridge led an online lecture titled “What the Heck’s a Fungus Anyway?” and largely spared the puns.