This year, the Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program held its Third Annual Summit for Hutton Scholars at the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff. Twenty-nine scholars enjoyed three days of programming, including field work, tours, lectures, and a career panel.

As a reminder, the Hutton Funding Challenge 4.0 is currently underway, with a goal is to raise $5,000 for the Hutton Program by August 23rd. All donations will go directly to the Robert F. Hutton Fund to support the placement of more high school students in internships for the summer of 2024.

Gain valuable leadership skills while helping shape the future of your Society! We are now in the recruiting window for volunteers for 2023-2024 committees. Committee work includes topics such as communications, awards, ethics, policy issues, membership, financial planning, and diversity, equity, and inclusion, among others. Browse the full list.

Some hotels are now fully booked for the 2023 Annual Meeting in Grand Rapids, but we have added more rooms at the Hyatt Place and Holiday Inn. Booking within the AFS room block gives you the peace of mind that you are getting a great conference rate while staying at a vetted property nearby the conference venue. Book your room by July 27!

Get your copies of Fishes of Alaska ($40) and Standard Methods for Sampling ($30) on sale. Don't miss out!

Data from reef fish video surveys were analyzed to develop a new survey design in the Gulf of Mexico. The new design provides better estimates of reef fish abundance from natural and artificial reef habitats and will improve the assessment and management of multiple reef fishes.

Over the past few months, we have been highlighting the importance of engaging students and early career professionals in the fisheries field. In this month's column, I'd like to focus on our mid-career professionals. Oftentimes overlooked, this segment of our workforce may be faced with challenges not experienced during the early career or near-retirement years.

"The Mekong River is the lifeblood of this region, and it has been for centuries, providing food and income for many of the 70 million people living in the basin,” says Zeb Hogan, a fish biologist at the University of Nevada, Reno, who co-leads Wonders of the Mekong.

Looking for some great AFS apparel to pack for Grand Rapids? We have a new store offering quality Land's End apparel and accessories embroidered with the AFS logo. Order from our online store for shipment directly to your home or office. We're also still offering casual screen-printed apparel as well.