Thursday, August 7

Welcome Reception Dinner and Talk by Dr. Rick Wright
6:00 – 8:00 PM 
$25.00
A southwestern buffet dinner to be followed by a talk by Dr. Wright:

Mission: Ornithological - A Birding Spy in the Civil War South

Of all the stories of daring and heroism to emerge from the American Civil War, none is stranger than the career of Alexander Milton Ross. A dedicated abolitionist, Ross toured the American South before and during the war, enjoying the hospitality of plantation owners—and helping their slaves on the road to freedom in Canada. How did he do it? Armed with his fowling piece and a bird book, Ross wandered southern forests and fields in the guise of an innocent ornithologist; but far from simply following in the footsteps of Wilson and Audubon, he was actually busy passing information, maps, and funds to black men and women eager to escape their bondage. Learn more about this unlikely—and unknown—hero’s exploits in an entertaining and exciting illustrated talk by Rick Wright.

Saturday, August 9

Mingle and Meet fellow participants
5:00 – 6:00 PM
Cash Bar

Keynote Banquet featuring a talk by Dr. Rick Wright
6:00 – 9:00 PM
$35.00

Edge Effect
“Birds,” said Roger Tory Peterson, “have wings; they fly.” Like most platitudes, The Great Man’s oft-repeated observation is true only in part, but those words have served for decades as a reminder that much of the charm of birds lies in their apparent freedom. Birds seem to be unaffected by the physical, geographical, and psychological barriers that limit the activities of most mere humans. The great and wonderful paradox of birding is that it helps us, too, transcend those borders, while at the same time making us exquisitely aware of how different the landscapes of our planet can be. In this light-hearted but thoughtful talk, Rick Wright explores how birding—in our backyard and around the world—can also redraw the landscapes of the mind, ultimately leading us to new approaches to conservation, education, and even spirituality.

Silent Auction
This year's auction will be even bigger and better.  Please look for our great items on display.  Place your bids early and often.  Bidding begins on Wednesday and will continue until 6 PM. on Saturday.  Winners will be announced during dessert at the banquet and items may be picked up following the banquet.  All funds go to support our Children's Education/Outreach Program.