Many, many thanks to the healthy contingent of TOS members that
participated in the inaugural Wings of Winter Festival at Paris Landing
State Park this past weekend. I especially want to thank the TOS members
who gladly volunteered to lead field trips, help with workshops, man our
TOS table in the lobby, and who were there to "just help out anywhere we
can" or simply to "put me where you need me". A few extra hands pitching in
always makes events like this easier, and honestly, even more fun!
Despite the snow and ice preceding the festival, necessitating a few
changes in the schedule, all of the attendees I talked with seemed to
thoroughly enjoy themselves. While most birders were from Tennessee and
Kentucky, we also had folks from as far away as Texas and Louisiana. The
cooperation of the ten separate agencies and organizations involved in this
festival partnership was indeed gratifying. All in all, it was a wonderful
weekend to mix and mingle with other "Birders of a feather".
In addition to the birding, we were treated to the multi-talents of two
artists and their marvelously entertaining evening programs. Our old
friend, Brian "Fox" Ellis, never disappoints as John James Audubon.
Although many of us have seen this characterization before, it's always a
fascinating and highly educational experience, one that we all love. The
Saturday evening keynote program was provided by renowned author, artist
and naturalist Julie Zickefoose who "WOW-ed" the audience with her
compelling, funny, and certainly unique story of the work and passion
involved in the writing and illustration of her latest book "Baby Birds -
An Artist Looks into the Nest". Words will fail me if I try to adequately
and accurately share her inspiring presentation with you. You just had to
be there!!
So, once again, thanks to ALL of you from across our state who helped to
make the first Wings of Winter Birding Festival a success. We are already
planning for next year, so mark your calendars and bring your
friends.....the more the merrier!
Let's Go Birding!
Steve Routledge
