I was fortunate to grow up in a place where many CBCs had ancient stories to
awe young lads such as myself in the early 1970s. CBCs in Chicago were a
social gathering, a time for hearty outdoor activity, friendly competition,
followed by large hearty holiday type meals, wine and whisky (though not for
youngsters such as myself) and much camaraderie.

And the spirit of these CBCs were close to their original purpose -- to
replace the slaughtering of wildlife parties that were common in the early
20th century. An alternative way of enjoying the outdoors, competing, and yet
not killing/destroying.

The scientific angle came along later. It is useful, at times, but will never
be as rigorous as true surveys, that is, never will be until we squeeze all
of the fun out of the count. The trying to outdo other counts, to outdo other
parties within your count is part of the fun competition (if not taken
overboard). It spurs many participants to greater effort, and sometimes
greater jokes at ones expense. It's about bonding with your comrades.
Science is there yes, but when that takes the forefront, the participation
will suffer. Methinks anyway.

So enjoy the CBCs you participate in. Don't forget those kinglet tallies to
wow the other groups in your count, and not too much beer before heading
home.

Cheers
SteveM