Transition
From Bob Norbie, Foundation President:

The challenges of 2020 – the pandemic and its impact on Mallard Island programs – reminds me how important and powerful the Anishinaabe expression, Gi-bezhig-oomin, is in our lives. Translated, it means “We are All One” and it has become central to how we breathe life into our mission. As uncertain and disruptive as last year was, Gi-bezhig-oomin reassures us that when we nurture and revere our relationships, think collaboratively, act as one and responsibly to steward the earth, we can find our way through a myriad of challenges and changes. In spite of the coronavirus, the assault on our environment, the racism, and the incivility and divisiveness of politics that have ravaged our nation, by working in the spirit of Gi-bezhig-oomin, Mallard Island continues to be a beacon for calm and harmony—if we pause long enough to listen. Indeed, listening is one of Mallard Island’s most important tenets. Mallard Island encourages and enables her guests to deliberately and deeply listen. To listen to the familiar grand song of the tiny White Throated Sparrow. To listen to the wave’s raucous laughter against the rocky shoreline. To listen to the love notes whispering through the White Pines. And to listen to one’s inner thoughts and feelings from any number of magical spots on Mallard Island. The strength of Gi-bezhig-oomin in the life of our mission was evident with the transition of leadership coming into the New Year. Herein I speak of our beloved executive director, Beth Waterhouse, who retired at year-end after serving passionately and skillfully for 13 years, but not before supporting a smooth and seamless transition with our new and very capable executive director, Rebecca Otto. Herein I speak of our past board president, Peggy Anne Smith, who for the past three years faithfully, gracefully and purposefully shepherded our mission, vision and values. Predictable as the rising sun off the easterly end of Mallard Island, Peggy brought much sunshine and clarity through the quality of her person and leadership of the Foundation. Thank you, Beth and Peggy, for being you! As we look forward with new leadership and a vision for helping the world live in harmony through the teachings of Ober and Mallard Island, we invite each of you to continue being a steward of this spot-on Rainy Lake and wilderness in general. We look after and care for these jewel islands (Mallard, Crow, Hawk and Gull) during this vulnerable time. When we serve in the spirit of Gi-bezhig-oomin, our connectedness and oneness will ensure that these treasures will enlighten generations to come. Chi-Miigwech, Bob Norbie President, Board of Trustees