Published by the Tahoma Audubon Society: Connecting people with nature since 1969.

Vol. 39 No. 10 Dec. 2008/Jan. 2009

Land
Voyage of
Evergreen huckleberries
are abundant in the
Crescent Valley woods.

Story and photos by Diane Yorgason-Quinn

Disc very
I ’ve been curious about the “Discovery
Walks” offered by our sister organiza-
tion, the Tacoma Nature Center at Snake
Lake and often featured in The Towhee, so I
finally went on one. On October 18th, our own
Stephanie Swaim led one to the Crescent Creek
watershed in Gig Harbor, practically in my own
back yard and definitely in the peninsula por-
tion of the Vashon Christmas Bird Count,
which I try to cover (it will be on December 28th
if you’re interested!). Although these “Discovery
Walks” are offered for $5, TAS members can
sign up free. Membership carries its privileges!
These are NOT bird walks (what?!!), but nature
walks of “discovery,” so it’s kind of allowable
to bird a little, thank goodness! Open to people
of all ages, it was kind of a pleasant shock to see
Valerie Edwards of the Nature Center show up
with her extended family of three generations!
Wow! And every one of them could do a con-
vincing Flicker call!
Our trek started off down a dirt road a few
blocks from Crescent Valley Road, one of the
peninsula’s thoroughfares. However, we were
almost immediately in the woods and out of
See "Discovery" on page 7

2009 membership banquet to

You’ve waited all year – and now
IT’S HERE!
celebrate TAS 40th anniversary
“ Growing From Our Roots:
40 Years of the Tahoma Audubon Society”
TAS is about to achieve a major milestone! In 2009, we will mark the Christmas Bird Count 2008
40th anniversary of Tahoma Audubon Society. What started in 1969 as a
By Faye McAdams Hands
small group of concerned citizens gathered in a living room has grown into
Pierce County’s oldest and largest grassroots environmental organization. As always, our chapter has our CBC on the 3rd Saturday in
To celebrate this achievement, we are throwing a party! This year’s annu- December, so this year it is December 20. This is a part of the
al membership banquet will be a celebration of the past 40 years of con- Holiday tradition that we all look forward to. Whaaaat?!? You’ve
necting people to nature, with an eye to the next 40 to come. Please mark never participated before? Well then, this is the year to get started!
your calendar for this fun event! Each year, Audubon chapters throughout the US and Canada, and many countries in
Save the Date: Central and South America, choose a day 2 weeks prior to or after Christmas to census
40 Anniversary Banquet
th
all birds heard and seen. Besides being a fun day of birding, this is also the longest
Sat. Feb. 28th, 2009, 5:30 pm
standing citizen science project on the planet (this is the 109th year), and provides valu-
McGavick Student Center
able data to the scientific community that is used in a variety of ways.
Clover Park Technical College
Major anniversaries are a We welcome our returning counters as well as anyone new to the experience. You can
great opportunity to reflect on even count birds at your feeder if you choose to stay home instead! (Just give me a call
our shared past. Over the last with your numbers the next day and they will be added to that Area’s numbers!)
four decades, we have worked Check out the map of our Count Circle and call the Area Coordinator listed to sign
See "TAS 40th” on page 2
See "Christmas Bird Count" on page 6
 executive director’s Corner
Success is possible
Thanks to the
leadership of the
Tacoma Metro
Parks Commis-
sioners there will
be more habitat for
salmon and birds
in the future.
Near the west-
ern, dead-end of 6th
Ave in Tacoma is
Titlow Park and Titlow Pool. Many bird watchers
are familiar with Titlow Park because of the lagoon
that is often teaming with ducks and other shorebirds.
A short stroll from there is a forested trail and many
additional bird species can be spotted. A round trip
can take you past the shoreline where you can see
seabirds and the purple martin boxes.
Also at Titlow is an aging, Olympic size swim-
ming pool. Replacement of the pool was on a list
of projects in the 2005 bond measure passed by vot-
ers. Driven largely by the need to protect the estu-
ary, and seeing the opportunity for future habitat
restoration, the Metro Parks Commissioners decid-
ed to build the new pool in a different location.
Kendle Park will be the new home of the pool.
The estuary at Titlow lagoon is significant habitat
for salmon. It is one of very few large tidal influ-
enced lagoons providing refuge and foraging habi-
tat for South Puget Sound salmon. It is on restora-
tion lists for the Chamber Clover Watershed and the
Puget Sound Partnership. With the renewed focus
of the Puget Sound Partnership, the lagoon pro-
vides a unique opportunity to create more habitat
for salmon and birds.
What a great story it tells: that it is possible to
actually increase wildlife habitat in the urban area;
that in a city park at the end of a major city street,
accessible to anyone who can drive ride or walk, we
can witness the restoration of prime habitat for the
wonderful species that define the northwest.
We applauded MetroParks for recognizing the
opportunity and making the right decision. It was a
tough call guaranteed not to please everyone. But it
was one that allows us to do right by the environ-
ment and have the recreational opportunities pro-
vided by a pool.
Lets party like it’s 1969!
Two thousand and nine is the reason I am Director
of Tahoma Audubon. This next year is the 40th
anniversary of Tahoma Audubon Society.
“It was a tough call
guaranteed not to
please everyone. But
it was one that allows
us to do right by the
environment.”
Just imagine working for an organization that is
just a little younger than I am. Working with people
who were my age when they sat down in a living
room and contemplated forming a local chapter of
the Audubon Society. It is a joy to be part of an
organization that is still going strong, surrounded by
the people who were there at the beginning.
Just image the challenge and opportunity of
working with an organization going through a gen-
erational shift. One generation of environmental
leadership passing the torch to the next, combining
the wisdom of those who have struggled for decades
with the optimism of those who see endless possi-
bilities for the coming decades.
Let’s celebrate together, in 2009, the wonderful
work of Tahoma Audubon that has been and that
lies ahead.

❦ A heartfelt thank you

Bill and Barbara Griffin would like to publicly thank those individuals who
❦
made a memorial gift to Tahoma Audubon Society in the name of Marjorie
Griffin, who passed away earlier this year.  They are gratified that by honoring
Marjorie you are supporting Tahoma Audubon.
The Pierce County Chapter of The National Audubon Society
Located in University Place's Adriana Hess Wetland Park

... TAS 40th

2917 Morrison Rd W University Place, WA 98466
Office hours 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Front desk 253-565-9278
from page 1 e-mail: contact@TahomaAudubon.org

hard to protect places as precious as Swan Creek and Snake Lake and have edu- Tahoma Audubon Staff
 
cated generations of young people on the wonders of birds and nature. We have Flint, Bryan Executive Director                        
explored Pierce County and Washington State together through field trips and are bryanflint@tahomaaudubon.org 253-565-9129
proud of the legacy of the Tahoma Audubon Society.
This time is also a wonderful time to dream about the good work still to be done Kyer, Krystal Conservation Coordinator
and commit to making it happen. Every day we learn about new threats to habi- kkyer@tahomaaudubon.org 253-232-9978                    
tat that must be addressed and meet new people who are ready to help protect the Swaim, Stephanie Education Coordinator
environment. Our successful history indicates that Tahoma Audubon is well
StephSwaim@tahomaaudubon.org 253-565-5479                      
poised to protect important bird habitat in Pierce County for future generations.
It has been you, our members and supporters, who have made all of this pos- Taylor, Graham Volunteer 253-565-1884
sible. In celebration, we’ll start the evening of February 28th off with a cocktail Kerrigan, Julie Coordinator
reception and silent auction, followed by a delicious buffet dinner prepared by the gtaylor@tahomaaudubon.org jkerrigan@tahomaaudubon.org
Clover Park Culinary Arts Program. The program will also include a special Tahoma Audubon Board Officers
             
presentation celebrating TAS’s 40-year history, our 2009 Birdathon Kickoff and
John Garner President
election of new board members. The banquet is part of a week-long series of
anniversary events planned around the theme, “Growing From Our Roots: 40 Marjorie Shea Vice President
Years of the Tahoma Audubon Society.” Wayne Larsen Past President
Whether you’re part of Tahoma Audubon’s “root” or “growth” years, we hope Jane Brosius Secretary
you will join us in celebrating our accomplishments and the successes on the
horizon! Kathleen Nelson Treasurer
Tahoma Audubon Board Members 2008
The Towhee is a publication of the Tahoma Audubon Society. Rob McNair-Huff Field Trip Chair
The Tahoma Audubon Society was chartered in 1969. TAS advocates for the protection Thelma Gilmur Membership Co-chair
of wildlife and promotes conservation through education and activities that enrich its mem- Dick Carkner
ber’s experiences in and with the natural world.
Sally Larson
The Towhee is published monthly, ten times a year, with a combined Jul/Aug and Dec/Jan
issue. Submissions of articles and photographs of birds, bird lore, natural history, conserva- Marcus Roening
tion, and environmental education are reviewed and considered for inclusion by the editor. Peggy L. Kopf
Copy is due by the 15th of the month and may be sent by e-mail, disk, or typed. Darby Veeck
Editor: editor@tahomaaudubon.org Ione Clagett
Mailing: Vera & John Cragin and Winfield Giddings Melissa Paulson
Design & Layout: Robert Kelton: E-mail: robert_kelton@ mac.com Elizabeth Beer
Printing: Consolidated Press
Printed on recycled newsprint Loren Webster Calendar Editor loren@lorenwebster.net

Page 2 www.tahomaaudubon.org December 2008/January 2009

 ENVIRONMENT Matters
Contact Krystal at 253-232-9978. Or you can e-mail her @ kkyer@tahomaaudubon.org
krystalKYER
Conservation Coordinator

2008—a great year for environmental activism
By Rein Attemann
This year was the year of the activist. Citizen
involvement blossomed from political activism to
labor activism, from social activism to environ-
mental activism. Washington State saw it all.
In the environmental arena, People For Puget
Sound in January organized the annual citizen
lobby day for the environmental community.
“Priorities for a Healthy Washington” brought
together over 350 citizens from throughout the
state to meet one-on-one with
their elected representatives
and to engage them with their
powers of persuasion. Some
were seasoned citizen lobby-
ists, but many newcomers
experienced the sense of
Olympia politics for the very
first time and were empow-
ered by this lobby day.
However, one day was not
enough to ensure that all four
environmental priorities
would pass the state legisla-
ture. Constituent activists used emails, phone calls
and letters during session and helped pass all four
environmental priorities.
Thanks to heavy citizen involvement, several
  Photo/Robert Kelton
“Environmental concerns such as Clean Air/Clean Fuels, Saving Puget Sound, Eliminating Toxic Flame
Retardants and Wildlife and Recreation programs were why I had gone to Lobby Day and visit
Representative Goodman. My passion is for the environment. But when I left from that meeting, I
knew that if I ever had any concerns about the direction the Washington State Legislature was tak-
ing on any topic, I would be able to knock on Roger’s door, and make those concerns known.
Representative Goodman embodies the concept of government for the people and by the people.”
—Kat Crowley-York, 45th Legislative District
other environmental measures also passed: us and our readers is that The Sound and its critters
• A toxic-free toys bill, the first of its kind in the will not survive another round of broken promises
nation to safeguard children from toys containing and inaction.
with toxic chemicals. The 2009 priorities include legislation to cap
• Year-round funding for a rescue tug at the pollution and invest in a clean energy economy,
mouth of the Strait of Juan de Fuca to help dis- promote energy efficiency first, create transit-
tressed vessels and reduce the risk of a catastrophic oriented communities, and invest in clean water.
oil spill. For additional information on the priorities please
• An Orca protection bill keeping all vessels visit http://www.environmentalpriorities.org/.
300’ away from the endangered whales. You can make your voice heard for a healthier
What a successful 2008 legislative session Washington by attending Citizens’ Lobby Day
indeed! 2009, Thursday, February 19th, in Olympia. To
Looking ahead to 2009, citizen activists will con- register, go to http://pugetsound.org/index/lobbyday
tinue to hold our elected officials accountable for or contact Rein Attemann, People For Puget Sound,
doing the right things for the health of Puget Sound. rattemann@pugetsound.org, (206) 382-7005
The legislature will be grappling with tough finan- x213.
cial decisions which will mean funding the Puget
Sound Partnership’s Action Agenda for the next Rein Attemann is Field Director for People For
two years will be a huge challenge. What worries Puget Sound.

2009 Environmental Priorities

Cap and Invest
By implementing real lim-
its on global warming pol-
lution, we will create new
jobs and stimulate the
growth of a clean energy
economy here in Washington State. This effort
starts by putting a cap on greenhouse gas emissions,
and then having polluters pay when they pollute. This
new revenue will be invested to reduce fossil fuel
dependence and spur new clean-tech innovation,
while assisting moderate- and low-income people
with volatile energy prices. Through state action now,
we will reduce global warming pollution in a manner
that benefits Washington’s economy, helps us shape
regional and national programs, and situates us at the
cutting edge of the new clean energy economy.
 Efficiency First
Promoting energy efficient homes, businesses and
public institutions will save money, enhance energy
security, and significantly reduce global-warming pol-
lution. Energy efficiency is the cheapest and most
immediate way to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions
and will create thousands of good, family-wage jobs
in Washington.  This bill will put “efficiency first” by
promoting super-efficient, low-energy-use buildings,
providing incentives to maximize energy efficiency,
requiring energy use information on buildings offered
for sale or lease; and making our public buildings
models of energy efficiency. This policy will also help
to ensure that low-income consumers can cope with
rising energy costs.   will protect the taxpaying public and ensure that pollut-
Transit-Oriented Communities
Washingtonians want to live in affordable, walkable
and transit-oriented communities.  With population
growth, we are facing increased traffic congestion,
diminished quality of life, and ever-increasing
greenhouse gas emissions. Transit-Oriented
Communities would
revise the state’s trans-
portation and land-use
planning framework to
assist local jurisdictions
to plan for growth in a
sustainable and climate-friendly way. The bill will
provide incentives for cities and developers to cre-
ate affordable, livable, transit-oriented develop-
ment, increasing transportation choices.
Invest in Clean Water
From Puget Sound to the Spokane River, clean water is
Washington’s lifeblood and our communities can’t thrive
without it.  This package of targeted polluter-pays fees
ers take responsibility for the impacts of their actions.  The
effort will raise new revenue to fund critical projects to
save Puget Sound and restore Washington’s rivers and
lakes.  By investing in stormwater infrastructure, toxics
prevention and other programs, we create new jobs,
relieve financial pressure on local government, and pro-
mote new economic stimulus.  

December 2008/January 2009 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 3

 Education Matters
TogetherGreen Fellowship awarded
As many of you from the Toyota family. I left the training very excited to
now know, I have represent Tahoma Audubon through this fellowship. It is
been awarded a both an opportunity to improve my effectiveness as a
National Fellowship conservation leader in Pierce County, and a vehicle to
fromTogetherGreen, expand our education programs a novel way. In addition
an alliance between to the training, I have received a grant from the fellow-
National Audubon ship to pilot a conservation project here in our commu-
and Toyota. In late nity.
October I attended a I need to share with you another experience I had at
stephanieSWAIM professional devel- the training: how inspiring it was to be among some of
Education Coordinator opment training at the most passionate individuals in our world-wide con-
the National servation community. Their experiences and successes
Call Steph @ 253-565-5479. Or Conservation guided me to rework and improve my plan for my proj-
StephSwaim@tahomaaudubon.org Training Center in ect. It was encouraging to know that so many others
Shepherdstown, across the country and around the world are as passion-
West Virginia with the 39 other conservation profession- ate as I am. For example, in this first year of this fellow-
als selected for this award. During the five-day training, ship we will be protecting thousands of acres of land in
we were treated to workshops by experts in communica- Vermont, restoring native grasslands in California,
tions, community leadership, conservation planning, and encouraging skateboarders to become park stewards in
engaging diverse audiences. We also had the opportunity the Bronx, restoring streams on private lands in New
to hear from some of the innovators of this program Mexico and reducing bird-collisions with building in
Philadelphia, to name a few. My plan is to bring the
Osprey Club, our after-school ecology-service club, to
families and students of Fort Lewis. Each one of these
projects plants a seed in their community with the poten-
tial to reach hundreds or thousands of people and affect
the community for generations.
And this is only the first year! At the end of five years,
over 200 fellows will have been funded through the
generous donation from Toyota. Two hundred individu-
als will have created new projects in their communities
and reached new audiences. Make no mistake – this is a
powerful movement of which we are a part! If you
would like to help with my project at Fort Lewis, or learn
more about the fellowship, please call. I would love to
tell you more about it and get you involved!
Be sure and check out the Charley Harper
Exhibit and Auction at Tacoma Nature Center:
Bidding closes on December 20th! So make sure
you bid on these gorgeous nature prints from the
famous artist, Charley Harper.

Nature Alphabet
Ages 3-6, $6, One hour. Preschoolers explore different nature topics through stories,
hands-on activities, nature walks and crafts at the Tacoma Nature Center. Adult partici-
pation is recommended, children under four require an adult present. Please note that
there are alternating times. Register by the Saturday before the program. 
Tacoma Nature Center-1919 South Tyler St. Tacoma, WA 98405
(253) 591-6439 tnc@tacomaparks.com
Dec 2 Tue 10:30–11:30 AM Y is for Yippy Coyotes
Dec 16 Tue 1:30-2:30 PM Nature Alphabet Z is for Zany.
Jan 13 Tue 10:30–11:30 AM Nature Alphabet: A is for Apple
Jan 27 Tue 1:30–2: 30 PM Nature Alphabet: B is for Busy Beavers
Feb 10 Tue 10:30 – 11:30 AM Nature Alphabet: C is for Colorful Critters
Feb 24 Tue 1:30–2:30 PM Nature Alphabet: D is for Dragonfly

❆
WinterFest ✺ Join us as we celebrate the
natural beauty and wonder
of the winter season.

2008
❅
❃
❅ ❆
☛
☛
☛
Nature Hikes
Games and Crafts
Hot Cocoa
On December 30th from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm. ☛ Storytellers
At the Morse Wildlife Preserve in Graham, WA ☛ Wildlife Discovery!
Brought to you by: Tahoma Audubon Society. Call (253) 565-9278 for more information.

2917 Morrison Road W., 1919 South Tyler Street,

University Pl. WA 98466 Tacoma WA 98338
253-565-9278 253-591-6439 www.metroparkstacoma.org
www.TahomaAudubon.org Open Tues. – Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Open Mon – Sat. 10a.m.-1p.m. & Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Page 4 www.tahomaaudubon.org December 2008/January 2009

 field trips and Events
Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually
Dec 3 Wed 7:30-11:00 AM
Join Phil on his weekly bird walks as he counts the
birds at Nisqually NWR. Meet: At the Visitor’s
Center. The group may walk out to McAllister
Creek if that trail is open. Then it takes the board-
walk/trail loop out to the Twin Barns, the Nisqually
overlook area, and the riparian area, totaling about
3 miles.
Bring: Good walking shoes or boots, raingear, wa-
ter, snacks, and $3 for entry fee unless you have a
pass. Scopes are welcome.
Sign-up: Call or email Phil Kelley to confirm
details (especially during the trail construction
period). Phil Kelley, Lacey, 360-459-1499, scrub-
jay323@aol.com.
Weekly trips- Dec 10, 17, 24, 31 and Jan 7, 14,
21, 28 and Feb 4, 11, 18
Kittitas County Birding in Winter.
Dec 7 Sun 6:30 AM-5:00 PM
Co-Leaders -Charlie Wright and Roger Orness.
Come enjoy a day of winter-season birding in cen-
tral Washington. We will venture over Snoqualmie
Pass and visit areas including Swauk Prairie and
South Cle Elum along our route. Large numbers of
raptors including Rough-legged Hawks and Prai-
rie Falcons are seen wintering in the open, snow-
covered fields of Kittitas. Proceeding east we will
reach the Columbia River at Vantage, where wa-
terfowl are sometimes present in vast numbers.
Some target species will include unusual loons,
ducks, American White Pelicans, and possibly rare
gulls. Chukar are occasionally seen in the basalt
outcroppings here.
Bring many layers of clothing for cold weather
conditions, a lunch, and snacks. Scopes are wel-
come. Space is limited.
Meet: At 6:30 AM at Auburn Safeway at Auburn
Way and Main St. Take Hwy. 18 to Auburn and
exit at Auburn Way. (Hwy 164). Turn north (right)
on Auburn Way and drive three blocks north. Safe-
way sign and gas station will be on the left. Park
in the Safeway lot just beyond the gas station and
straight out from the Safeway door. We will meet
and carpool (promptly) from there.
Sign-up: Contact Roger Orness, r.orness@com-
cast.net, 253-922-7516. E-mail is preferred.
Weekly Bird Walk @ Adriana Hess
Dec 8 Jan 12 Feb 9 Mon 12:00-1:00 PM
Great Backyard Bird Count - February 13-16, 2009
People from all across the United States and
Canada will be watching and counting birds during
the Great Backyard Bird Count--for fun and for con-
servation. Last year, the top 10 Birds for 2008 GBBC
on the most frequently reported list were Northern
Cardinal, Mourning Dove, Dark-eyed Junco, Downy
Woodpecker, American Goldfinch, Blue Jay, House
Finch, Tufted Titmouse, Black-capped Chickadee,
and American Crow. The top 10 Birds for 2008 GBBC
in the most numerous reported list were Snow
Goose, Canada Goose, European Starling, American
Robin, Common Grackle, American Crow, American
Goldfinch, Dark-eyed Junco, Red-winged Blackbird,
and Mourning Dove. (http://www.birdsource.org/
gbbc/learning/topbirds)
National Audubon and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology
are hosting the GBBC with sponsorship from Wild
December 2008/January 2009 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 5
Weekly Plant Walk @ Adriana Hess
Dec 15 Jan 19 Feb 16 Mon 12:00-1:00 PM
Nature Walk at Point Defiance Park
Dec 21 Sun 8:00-11:30 AM
Join author Rob McNair-Huff for a 5-mile walk
through the forests at Point Defiance Park. The trip
starts at the back of the parking lot for the Point
Defiance Zoo and Aquarium. Come prepared for
a healthy walk through the park in changeable
weather conditions. Winter bird highlights can
include waterfowl, Bald Eagles and forest birds.
For more information, e-mail rob@whiterab-
bits.com.
Point Wilson
Jan 11 Sun 7:00 AM-2:00 PM..
Location: Point Wilson, Fort Flagler, Port
Townsend area.
Leader: Ruth Sullivan.
The primary targets for this field trip are winter
waterfowl in the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the
North Puget Sound. Hope for Marbled and An-
cient Murrelet, Pigeon Guillemont, Rhinoceros
Auklet, Common Murre, Harlequin Ducks, Long-
tailed Ducks, Brants, 3 species of Loon, and many
shorebirds on the spit of Fort Flagler. Dress for
cold wind and the ever present possibility of rain.
This is an all-day trip.
We meet at 7:00 am at the Park and Ride at 6th
Ave. close to the Narrows Bridge. For reserva-
tions call 253-565-9278.
The 109th Christmas Bird Count: Citizen Science in action
Sunday, December 14, 2008 to Monday, January 5, 2009
Tens of thousands of volunteers throughout the
Americas will take part in an adventure that has
become a family tradition among generations.
Families and students, birders and scientists,
armed with binoculars, bird guides and check-
lists will head out on an annual mission - often
before dawn. For over one hundred years, the
desire to both make a difference and to experi-
ence the beauty of nature has driven dedicated
people to leave the comfort of a warm house in
the middle of winter.
Saturday, December 20:  CHRISTMAS BIRD
COUNT!!  See article in Towhee.  For more infor-
Birds Unlimited. During the event, everyone who
enjoys birds can submit their observations through
www.birdsource.org/gbbc. Be sure to go
to the website before you count to see
the very important easy-to-follow instruc-
tions and local checklists.
To have more fun, join Tahoma Audubon
Society’s 8th annual GBBC Special which we
hope will again feature four separate day’s
events. Our January flyer will give place,
time, etc. Call TAS, 253-565-9278, to get direc-
tions and let us know which days activity you wish
to join. There will be a meal, a crash course, and
birding with a Master Birder. It is free, though we
encourage non-members to take out an introduc-
tory membership for the family at $20.00 ($15.00
for seniors or students.)
Waterbirds Walk
Want to know how to identify those birds out on the
water?  Want to see what the birds are up to at Pen-
rose Point?  If so then join us on Saturday the 13th of
December at 11 AM, we will meet at Penrose Point
State Park in the big parking lot near the lawn.  We
will have one scope and a few pairs of binoculars for
folks to use.  Please call to register at (253) 884-2514;
the group size is limited to 15 people (it is free!).
rules
Call TAS to register (253-565-9278). Some trips are
people limited out of necessity.
Notify TAS 24 hours in advance if you cannot come.
Field trip leaders put in a lot of time and planning and
no-shows disrupt field trips. More than 3 no-shows a
year can result in revoking opportunity to participate.
Arrive at the meeting place early.
No pets are allowed.
Be prepared for seasonal weather.
Bring lunch, drinks and snacks if the field trip is
scheduled past mid-day.
All passengers divide total carpooling expenses.
Current guidelines are 20 cents a mile per car, not
including driver.
Beginners are always welcome.
Have fun.
mation, contact Faye McAdams Hands at  (253)
942-9233 or zest4parus@hotmail.com.  
Sunday, December 28:  Please join one of our
partner Audubon chapters for their Christmas
Bird Count!
 Vashon CBC: For the Gig Harbor portion, con-
tact Diane Yorgason-Quinn at (253) 857-3367 or
avosetta@hotmail.com.  For island count, con-
tact Sue Trevathan at (206) 463-1484 or sue.
trevathan@centurytel.net. 
 Rainier (Kent/Auburn): Contact Nancy Stre-
iffert at (253) 796-2203 or nancy_streiffert@
hotmail.com.
Do you wish to offer the use of your yard for this
GBBC? You will be asked to choose whether you
would like to make a breakfast, lunch, or supper.
You will be supplied a Master Birder unless that
is a job that someone in your family can do.
Thanks for considering this and letting us know
as soon as possible.
Please call Thelma Gilmur, 253-564-
8210, to offer to help or for more infor-
mation. Call TAS, 253-565-9278,
early to sign up so that hosts will
know how much food to plan on.
A red-winged blackbird, one
of the more numerous species
seen during the GBBC in 2008.
Photo/Diane Mayzak
 ... Christmas Bird Count
up and get the details on when and where to
meet. If you aren’t sure, or would like to
offer your help and talent in an Area that
might need someone else to join their team,
please feel free to call or e-mail me, the
Count Compiler.
A tradition and an adventure
From December 14, 2008
through January 5, 2009,
tens of thousands of vol-
Area 1: Joe McGuire 253-537-4790 unteers throughout the
Americas will take part
Area 2: Carol Schulz 206-824-7618
in an adventure that has
linusq@att.net
become a family tradition
Area 3: Diane Yorgason-Quinn 253-857-3367 among generations. Families
avosetta@hotmail.com
and students, birders and scien-
tists, armed with binoculars, bird
Area 4: Roxy & Bill Giddings 253-537-3075
guides and checklists will head out Econlockhatchee, FL
Photo/Roy Halpin
Area 5: Rolan Nelson 360-709-0503 on an annual mission - often before
rnbuffle@yahoo.com dawn. For over one hundred years,
the desire to both make a difference
Area 6: Marcus Roening 253-756-0215 and to experience the beauty of nature
Area 7: Stan & Sharon Johnson 253-848-2090
has driven dedicated people to leave the
comfort of a warm house in the middle
Area 8: Ruth Sullivan 253-564-7419 of winter.
godwit513@msn.com Each of the citizen scientists who brave
snow, wind, or rain, to take part in the
Count Compiler: Faye McAdams Hands
Christmas Bird Count make an enor-
253-942-9233 zest4parus@hotmail.com
Monk Parakeets in Port Orchard
ate :
upd
By Diane Yorgason-Quinn
Since I last wrote about the Monk
Parakeets in Port Orchard (The Towhee,
February 2005), the cell tower where they
had built their huge stick nest/roost was
indeed torn down and replaced with a big-
ger tower on Mitchell Road, south of
South Kitsap High School. Local author-
ities tried to capture the dozen or so
birds, but couldn’t get them all. The
new tower soon had a large stick nest!
Recently, that nest is missing, wheth-
er by natural or foul means remains
unknown. How-
ever, there
are still
➦
Monk
Right:
The new
cell tower
➦
at Monk
headquar-
ters, Port
Orchard.
Left:
Detail
of Monk
entering
the tower
conduit
and pump-
ing his tail.
Page 6 www.tahomaaudubon.org December 2008/January 2009 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 7
from page 1
We also enjoy a Tally Dinner at Snake
Lake Nature Center, starting at 5:00pm (we
offer dinner at $6.00 per person.) Our flock
gathers here at the end of the day to refuel,
... disc very from page 1
sound and sight of civilization on really great trails, part of
the private land parcels which make up the Crescent Valley
Alliance, a stewardship project similar to local land trusts.
Only in America! When neighbors band together, things
warm up, total our numbers and share our really do happen! This alliance was just born in 2006 on
the heels of a BioBlitz designed to identify whether it was
experiences. See you on the 20th!
something special biologically (and of course it is!; see
their website: http://www.crescentvalleyalliance.org/). It
has already been winning awards (Department of Fish and
Wildlife Organization of the Year and Arbor Day Downy Woodpecker
mous contribution to conservation. Stewardship Award!) and has energized the long Crescent
Audubon and other organiza- Creek valley that connects Crescent Lake on the north and
tions use data collected in this Gig Harbor on the south. This mostly undeveloped and
longest-running wildlife census pristine watershed will assuredly be watched over and
to assess the health of bird protected for as long as any of us can see ahead, thanks to
populations - and to help guide this dedicated group of neighbors and property owners.
conservation action. Stephanie, dressed in autumnal Halloween colors of
From feeder-watchers
orange, led her small force into the woods on a warm
Vermillion autumn day. As befitting a Voyage of Discovery, our
and field observers to
Flycatcher, leader was an actual oceanographer! She seemed happy
count compilers and re-
CBC, 2008, enough to be exploring the watersheds rather than water-
gional editors, everyone
ways today, although as an amphibian herself, she made
who takes part in the certain we opened our ears to the sounds of the Pacific
Christmas Bird Count does Chorus Frogs (Pseudacris regilla). To hear what we heard, Work of Pileated Woodpeckers.
it for love of birds and the ex- click on the sound bites on this informative website that
citement of friendly competition -- and Steph directed us to later: http://www.mister-toad.com/
with the knowledge that their efforts are PacificTreeFrog.html.
making a difference for science and bird At first birds seemed scarce. Jeff Feagin predicted
conservation. they’d all get active at noontime, and sure enough, the
Explore the CBC Photo Gallery of birds longer we spent, the bolder the birds. Woodpeckers,
seen during counts. http://www.audu- wrens, kinglets, sparrows, thrushes, crossbills, and finches
were soon our constant companions, but except for the
bon.org/Bird/cbc/cbcPhotos.php
predictably bold Song Sparrows, they were quite skulky. I
saw and heard my first Varied Thrush of the season, an
important sign of passage. A Hermit Thrush was seen
close-up by Jeff and Adam. Fox Sparrows allowed com-
parisons of their chevron breast markings with the streaks
Parakeets on that tower! of the Song Sparrows. Siskins appeared and reappeared as
On October 25, a warm sunny fall day, if part of a magic trick. Brown Creepers tested our obser- Walk leader Stephanie Swaim.
Adam Trent and I passed by and saw three vation skills, but we passed the test. Kinglets made us pivot
birds at 5:30 p.m. No nest was seen, but
our necks upwards in an unnatural position.
It was difficult to get through the walk for reasons other
the new tower has large rectangular open-
than birds, too. Berries had to be identified and tasted, two
ings where conduits enter, and one of those
kinds of huckleberries and at least two kinds of blackber-
appeared to have a couple of sticks protrud-
ries, all at perfect ripeness. You wouldn’t starve here!
ing. Later we saw one of the birds enter Plenty of inedible fruits, too, but tasty to the birds. It was
that hole. This is pretty confusing because the height of mushroom season, and there was an amazing
Monks are almost known among parrot variety. Although Jeff knew a lot of the mushrooms, no
species for NOT being cavity nesters. They one actually saw him eat one! That’s a warning in itself!
prefer to build their own apartment houses A gorgeous golden caterpillar with plumes presented
in the open. Maybe when nesting time rolls itself on an eye-level leaf and asked to be admired. Later
around again, a new structure will appear, Stephanie, with the help of Krystal Kyer at TAS, was able
or maybe they’ll adapt to cavity nesting, or to narrow down its ID to one of the instars (phases between
maybe they’ll all be caught and live in cages exoskeleton molts) of the Spotted Tussock Moth
Jeff Feagin and many mushrooms.
by then. So far they have been amazingly (Lophocampa maculate). Also called Yellow Wooly Bear,
it is not to be confused with the prognosticating orange-
resilient for presumably captive-bred escap-
ees from a pet store. So the story continues and-black Wooly Bears and their renowned weather pre-
to evolve! dicting abilities, although perhaps this gorgeous creature
Photos/Diane Yorgason-Quinn did know something she wasn’t telling us. Such a stunning
creature, this caterpillar will metamorphosis into a drab
moth, just the opposite of the ugly duckling story.
This lovely nature trail accessed on Drummond Street
has welcomed bikers, joggers, and equestrians as well, and
you can go explore it yourself. Contact the Alliance (web-
site above) or come with us to inventory the birds on
December 28th (Vashon CBC). The trails are well main-
tained, and users seem intent on keeping the area well
preserved for all of us.
➦
Explorers disappear into the woods. Photos/Diane Yorgason-Quinn
➦
Gorgeous golden Tussock Moth caterpillar. Deciduous huckleberries were also abundant. Valerie stops for a snack.
 Just the other day... Here’s what TAS was doing in November 1983
By Helen Engle
25
The TAS 1983 Christmas Bird Count
was on Sunday, December 18.  The
goal was to beat the previous year’s
total of 113 species, and 70,223
Years Ago
individual birds.  Our CBC Chair was
Ken Brown, the traditional 15-mile radius
circle was the CBC count.  The eight sections’ leaders
were Joe Quinn, Thais Bock, Ken Batker/Fred
Tobiason, Carla Hansmann, Nathan Chapell,
Burt Ostenson, Stan Johnson, Betty Hietman.
The CBC birders gathered at dusk near the count
circle center to total up birds counted and share the
CBC chili dinner at the home of Helen & Stan
Engle.  plant to wear respirators.  The
The Membership Meeting on Dec. 9 was at PLU’s
Ingram Hall and featured Libby Mills with a
presentation on “The Real Alaska Brown Bear:  Not
Ferocious, and Not ‘Teddy’.”  A veteran of five summers
as a National Park Service naturalist at Katmai and
Denali National Parks, she has observed and
photographed these bears.  In the winter she is The
Nature Conservancy’s Steward for the Skagit River
Bald Eagle Preserve.  Greenwater and Lake Chelan/Sawtooth Ridge.
In 1982, Washington State Audubon members
hired a legislative coordinator to represent Audubon’s
conservation concerns in the state capitol.  After three
years of having a state office in Olympia, we have
grown and become an effective force there.  And in
one year Audubon’s novice Legislative Coordinator,
Pam Crocker-Davis, spent a lot of time learning the
ropes at the legislature, finding out how seasoned
‘white-hat’ lobbyists operate, how the legislative
system really works, and how to organize and work
against environmentally damaging legislation.
As the 1984 session approaches, Audubon will be
in Olympia on the defensive, to protect against
environmental losses, and on the offensive, working
the
quizzical
By Thais Bock
by Phil Buly
BIRDSONGS
Page 8 www.tahomaaudubon.org December 2008/January 2009
for environmental gains.  issues of our community. 
TAS was well represented at a crowded Here’s an excerpt from his
public hearing in the Tacoma Bicentennial president’s report in
Pavilion on the subject of arsenic December 1983. 
emissions from the American Smelting In October 1981 Com-
& Refining Company (ASARCO ) copper mencement Bay was listed
smelter in Ruston.  Bill Giddings as the top priority hazardous
presented our arguments and portions of our waste site in the State of
comments appeared in the New York Times and on Washington, and placed with Helen Engle
from days of yore.
television.  TAS believes that it is possible both to the top 10 highest priority
protect the public and protect jobs.  People in the sites in the nation, for consideration for federal
neighborhood of the smelter funding of necessary remedial
must not continue to be action under Superfund.  April
exposed to arsenic dust levels 1983 EPA announced that it
which require workers in the finalized the EPA/State
Cooperative Agreement for 1.3
Clean Air Act requires that the million dollars, allowing
public be provided an ample Washington Department of
margin of safety, not just Ecology to implement the
minimal protection from investigation of hazardous
American Smelting And Refining Company.
proven damage.  waste pollution along the
Writing of the wonderfully varied wilderness areas nearshore/tideflats industrial area of Commencement
proposed for official designation, Mary Fries listed Bay.
the attractions of Cougar Lakes, Norse Peak/ Agencies that have made studies of Commencement
Bay are EPA, NOAA, WA Dept. of Ecology, Tacoma-
Familiar with these areas from numerous Pierce County Health Department, US Corps of
backpacking trips through them on a labyrinth of Engineers, and other groups.  A Citizens Advisory
wilderness trails, Mary lists the lakes, ponds, and committee for Nearshore/Tideflats Superfund Project
tarns; the slopes, crags, and basins in the tumultuous has been formed.  The members of this committee
landscapes.  Her special emphasis is on the wildlife represent various segments of the public such as the
--elk, deer, coyotes, marmots, incredible birds and Tacoma Medical Society, League of Women Voters,
wildflowers.  Vashon/Maury Island Community Council, Tahomans
Field trips included Nisqually NWR census, led by for Healthy Environment, Tahoma Audubon and
Karl Lundberg; Kreger Lake, John Piper; McNeil private citizens. Meetings with the agency people are
Island walk, Henry Kyle; Commencement Bay held about once a month and reports are given bri
waterfront, John Slipp & Thelma Gilmur; plus the nging the members up to date.
Kent-Auburn  CBC, led by Thais Bock on Dec. 31. 
TAS President Walt Adams did a wonderful job of Feedback, comments and reminiscences
keeping members informed of the major environmental welcome, 253-564-3112, Hengle@iinet.com.
1.  Which falcon is our smallest and most colorful?
2.  What large arboreal long-tailed species of the southwest constantly
repeats its name?
3.  What are the tail feathers of a bird called?
4.  The word “plover” from the Latin “pluvia” means ________.
5.  What owl is closely related to the Great Horned Owl?
(Answers below cartoon.)
Answers: 1. American Kestrel 2. Chachalaca 3. rectrices 4. rain 5. Snowy Owl
 announcements
Tahoma Audubon special December Bookstore hours
Our TAS bookstore will have special holiday hours.
We will be open from 10:00a.m. to 4:00p.m. on
Saturdays, December 6, 13, and 20 to help you have
more opportunities to purchase your Christmas and
holiday gifts. The usual hours for Monday through
Friday will remain the same, opening at 10:00a.m.
and closing at 1:00p.m.
We have bird field guides, plant and animal guides,
children’s books, posters, t-shirts, Rite-in-the-Rain
notebooks, bird houses, gift certificates, Tahoma
Audubon Society memberships, and various activity
books. We also have our 2009 Tahoma Audubon
Calendars for $4.00!!!
Come visit us at 2917 Morrison Road W in University
Place. There is a 10% discount for members.
Homeschooler’s Guide to Project FeederWatch
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology has just released its
newly revised, FREE Homeschooler’s Guide to
Project FeederWatch.
For more than 20 years, Project FeederWatch has
been an easy, fun way for children to learn about birds
and strengthen their skills in observation, identification,
research, computation, writing, creativity, and more.
FeederWatchers keep track of the numbers and kinds
of birds at their feeders through the winter and report
what they see to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
The Homeschooler’s Guide to Project FeederWatch
will guide you through bird-related activities that pro-
mote learning across many disciplines, including sci-
ence, math, history, and the arts. Examples of these
activities include:
• Natural history: Observe and research a bird’s
behavior and life cycle
• Math: Calculate average seed consumption rate and
graph data
2008 McChord Air Force Base Bluebird study summary
On Main Post of McChord Air Force Base we currently
monitor 71 boxes in 39 locations.
Two boxes within 12 inches of each other are consid-
ered “double boxed” locations. We also had 7 single
boxes. In the south area, we still have 4 boxes in 2
locations.
During the fall of 2007 and the spring of 2008 we
replaced and relocated 8 Bluebird (BB) boxes.
Total: 73 boxes in 41 locations.
During the nesting season (late April to early August)
boxes known to attract BB were monitored twice
weekly when possible. This year we provided freeze-
dried mealworms as our usual food source, medium size
live worms, was in short supply nationwide.
Each year, access to our nesting area has become
more difficult as post security, specifically gate and road
closures, increases. Since 2004 we have not banded
any young BB largely due to the difficulty with increased
security. By September we had cleaned and scraped
out all our boxes and made final calculations.
Bluebirds nested successfully in 11 locations:
10 double boxes: numbers 3, 17, 22, 24, 28, 41, 59,
70, 79, and 102.
December 2008/January 2009 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 9
Any member who brings in 3 new member-
ships or buys and gives 3 memberships as
gifts, will get a $10.00 gift certificate.
• Writing: Keep a nature journal to write stories and
poetry
• Geography: Research the geographic ranges of
birds
• Art: Keep a feeder-bird sketch book or create a
papier mache mask
To download  the Homeschooler’s Guide to Project
FeederWatch, visit www.FeederWatch.org and click
on the “Education/Home School” button. You’ll be
able to download the PDF in low (2.2MB) or high
(6.7MB) resolutions.
You may choose to use the free guide as a stand-
alone resource, or sign up for Project FeederWatch to
submit the data you gather. If you would like to be a
project participant, the signup fee is $12 for members
of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, $15 for non-mem-
bers. There are discounts for group participation.
If you have any questions, please let us know how we
can help by emailing feederwatch@cornell.edu.
1 single box: number 8.
Two BB pairs had a first brood in one box and then
moved to the adjacent box for a second brood.
Estimate: 60 BB fledglings for the year. A good year!
In 5 locations BB were unsuccessful as evidenced by old
eggs and dead nestlings in boxes 7, 14, 58, 61, & 101.
Tree swallows nested successfully in 24 locations and
were unsuccessful at 11 other sites. Chickadees were
unsuccessful at 3 locations. Seventeen boxes showed
little or no use.
Note: Our use of double boxes seems to be success-
ful. Since the BB are ground feeders there is no com-
petition for food from the tree swallows, who are aerial
feeders. Occasionally tree swallows will nest right next
to each other, thus minimizing housing for the BB.
Though the BB seem to start nesting a week earlier that
the tree swallows, swallows tend to be more aggressive
and will drive BB away or nest over a BB start.
Summary: From our observations we estimate that
14-16 pairs of BB nested on McChord Air Force Base in
2008, fledging approximately 60 young.
– Care deLeeuw – Rosemary Lenigan
Thanks to Valerie Elliott for her support and assistance.
Shhhh....
Don’t tell Thelma!
Anyone who has been
involved in Tahoma
Audubon knows,
loves and respects
Thelma Gilmur.
Please join us for an
open house, Sunday,
Feb. 15, 2009, 1:00pm to 4:00pm.
Open House, Mountaineers Clubhouse,
2302 North 30th Street, Tacoma, WA
Bryan Flint, Executive Director
Christmas Iris Folding Card Classes
Rosanne Becker, Instructor
Wed., Dec. 10 & Mon. Dec. 15—6:30-9:00 PM
Adriana Hess Center
Cost: $15.00 (to be paid at the class)
Fill in holiday shapes with colorful strips of paper or
ribbon that spiral to center of iris. Leave class with
at least two cards and patterns to make your own.
Supplies needed: small scissors, Scotch Magic Tape
(green plaid dispenser), and a small craft cutting mat
(if you have one).
Valentine Iris Folding Card Classes
Rosanne Becker, Instructor
Wed., Feb. 4 & Tues. Feb. 10—6:30-9:00 PM
Adriana Hess Center
Cost: $15.00 (to be paid at the class)
Fill in Valentine shapes with colorful strips of paper
or ribbon that spiral to center of iris. Leave class with
at least two cards and patterns to make your own.
Supplies needed: small scissors, Scotch Magic Tape
(green plaid dispenser), and a small craft cutting mat
(if you have one).
Adriana Hess Plantings
Columbia Lily aka Tiger Lily (Lilium columbianum)
Native plants are being planted at the park and
exotic spec ies are being removed. There is now a
perfect place to showcase our native Columbia
Lily. Please contact Thelma Gilmur at 253-564-
8210 if you have lilies that you would like to
donate to that project.
Tahoma Audubon Society
December/January Happenings
Every Friday you are invited to a light brunch at
10:00 am. at Adriana Hess Wetland Park in
University Place. Please stay till noon or so and
help us beautify the grounds.
Birding Walk, December, Monday the 8th and
January, Monday the 12th, 12:00noon to 1:00pm.
with Ruth Sullivan at Adriana Hess Wetland Park
in University Place. Free.
Plant Walk, December, Monday the 15th and
January, Monday the 19th, 12:00noon to 1:00pm.
with George Schonhard at Adriana Hess Wetland
Park in University Place. Free.
Note to readers of the Towhee:
The Towhee is uploaded each month to Tahoma
Audubon’s website. The PDF is in full color, but an-
other good reason to check out the online version is
that all the websites and e-mail addresses in each
issue are accessible by just clicking on them.
 volunteer Recognition
Green Tacoma Day
at Julia’s Gulch
The Green Tacoma
Partnership’s first
Green Tacoma Day
brought a diverse
group of volunteers,
c o m m u n i t y
organizations and
environmental groups
together to begin
restoration work at
Julia’s Gulch. Located in North East Tacoma near the Port
of Tacoma, Julia’s Gulch is one of the few pockets of
urban open space that has not been turned into a residential
or commercial site. In fact, the Gulch provides essential
buffer space between the heavily industrialized port and
nearby housing developments. After realizing the inherent
value of this space and perhaps, more importantly, that
communities will protect and restore it, the Green Tacoma
Partnership Steering Committee identified it to be the
perfect site for our November 15th Green Tacoma Day.
As more and more people arrived, the diversity and size
of our work force became apparent. New and familiar
faces from groups like the Cascade Land Conservancy,
Earthcorps, Native Plant Salvage Alliance, REI, the Port
of Tacoma and Metro Parks Tacoma all gathered around
to launch the event. Altogether, at least 120 people were
eager to restore Julia’s Gulch.
While there were a few different speakers to welcome
volunteers to the event, Tacoma City Councilwoman Julie
Anderson and Port Commissioner Clare Petrich offered
particularlythoughtprovokingperspectives.Commissioner
John Garner.
welcome to New and Returning Members
October 16, 2008 to November 15, 2008
Chapter New and Renewing:
Mr and Mrs. Charles D Bronson, Anne and Bob
Caughey, Ronald T Dyson, Robert Flint and Letha
Schwiesow, Kim Freeman and Ian Kaminsky,
Albertina (Tina) Ferguson, M Henry and M Purcell,
Molly Hukari, Myrna and Ed Hume, Alan Hultengren,
Howard and Doreen Johnson, Jonathan Kemp,
We don’t want to lose you!
You, our members are important to us.  We want
you!  Starting in 2008 each member must renew with
our chapter directly to stay a member of the chapter.  Tahoma Audubon.  Please renew directly with
A renewal with National Audubon will not automati-
cally renew with the Chapter.    If you love receiving
the Towhee please renew your membership once a
year by sending a contribution of $30 or more to
Tahoma Audubon at 2917 Morrison Red West,
University Place, Wa, 98466.
Page 10 www.tahomaaudubon.org December 2008/January 2009
Petrich spoke to the value of Julia’s
Gulch as an essential buffer zone
between the Port of Tacoma and
neighboring communities. She
emphasized the interdependent
relationship between communities,
economies and urban open spaces,
recognizing that Julia’s Gulch and other
urban open spaces directly improve
both the community’s domestic and Earthcorps and Anna Thurston.
industrial environments.
Similarly, City Councilwoman Julie Anderson
encouraged everyone to think differently about urban
open space, considering it to be an essential part of our
community’s infrastructure, rather than merely wasted
space, or a place to be developed in the future. She
credited these natural areas for their ability to filter the bushes, English Ivy and Scotch Broom that littered the
water and air that pass through them—processes that
government and industry would have to spend
tremendous time and money to engineer. Her
characterization of urban open space as irreplaceable
community treasure communicated the fundamental
motivation behind the Green Tacoma Partnership and its
volunteer’s efforts to preserve and protect urban spaces
like Julia’s Gulch.
Additionally, Congressman Norm Dicks’ District
Director Clark Mather offered his praise, giving both his
thanks and continued support for restoration work in the
community. Shortly after, REI presented a $5,000.00
check to the Green Tacoma Partnership, acknowledging
and applauding GTP’s work. The confluence of speakers
demonstrated the Green
Tacoma Partnership’s ability
to bring government, business,
and non-profit environmental
organizations together in order environmental infrastructure.
to effectively serve the
community. However, the
event wasn’t all talk.
As volunteers became
anxious, eager to get their
hands dirty, the opening
ceremony came to a close.
Volunteers split into four work with a local ‘friends of’ group at your favorite park or open
parties, stationing themselves
at the various areas above and
down in the gulch. The four
stations were designed to
Julie Anderson. represent the various stages of
Dorothy Leyden, Emmalou Lyle, Annette D
Pinkerton, Janet Roller, Wilma Rosenow,
Carol Schulz, Fred Tobiason, Carter Wells.
Chapter Joint with National:
Christine Anderson, Nels and Winnie
Bjarke, Judy Blatt, Nate and Angie
Chappell, Lois Currie, Eric Davis, Connie
We have made some changes to memberships.  David Schutt and Margaret Sullivan. We have not
We don’t want to lose you.  If you renew your
annual membership with National Audubon,
you are no longer automatically renewed with
the chapter.  We will send you a renew letter the
month before your renewal date.  Please send
you membership renewal directly to the chapter
at 2917 Morrison Rd., University Place, WA
98466.  Audubon Society. Our mission is to conserve and
Thank you,
Thelma Gilmur, membership co-chair.
restoration work: evaluation of the site, removal techniques
for invasive species, native planting, and future
maintenance. After evaluating the area and learning
invasive species removal techniques, volunteers eagerly
launched their assault on the Himalayan Blackberry
area. While the thorny vines clung to volunteers, often
piercing through work gloves and prickling skin, the
blackberry bushes gradually retreated, making room for
the native plants volunteers would replace them with later
in the day.
As our day at Julia’s Gulch ended, everyone could see
their positive impact. The invasive species that had
thoroughly entrenched themselves at the top of the Gulch
were uprooted and replaced by native plants. A new
network, the Friends of Julia’s Gulch was expanded,
gainingthesupportofbusiness,government,environmental
groups and the surrounding community. Perhaps most
importantly, everyone present was reminded of the vast
power embedded in cooperation and teamwork. Tahoma
Audubon thanks all the volunteers and organizations that
helped make Green Tacoma Day at Julia’s Gulch happen.
We pledge to continue protecting and restoring these
undeveloped urban spaces that make up our communities
You can join the community effort to restore Julia’s
Gulch by contacting volunteer and neighbor Heather
Halabisky, who is leading the new Friends of Julia’s Gulch
group. She can be reached at 253-927-4968 or halabcoles@
nventure.com.
If you would like to learn more about volunteer
opportunities throughout Tacoma or want to get connected
space, contact Julie Kerrigan, GTP Volunteer Coordinator,
at: 253-565-1884 or jkerrigan@tahomaaudubon.org.
You can call Graham @ 253-565-1884.
or E-mail him: GTaylor@TahomaAudu bon.org
Decker, Al Gray, Julie and David Lucas, Sandra T
Martin.
Introductory, Recruited through TAS:
received any lists of Introductory members recruited
through National for 3 months as National is rework-
ing their data base. We are sorry that we can not
welcome or send Towhees to what we presume are at
least 45 to 50 new members.
We are so pleased to welcome you to Tahoma
restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other
wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity
and the earth’s biological diversity.
 Welcome home Swan Creek salmon!
Friends of Swan Creek Watershed
invite you to join them in welcoming
Swan Creek salmon as they return
home to spawn. Saturday, December
13, 2008, is the fifth annual,
Salmon Saturday in Swan
Creek Park, from 10
a.m. to 2 p.m. at the
Pioneer Way East
entrance to Swan
Creek Park (located
between River and
Waller Roads, near Barkers
Barn and the Clay Art Center). Experience
the special wonder of watching salmon
make their way upstream in an urban
setting!
The event includes tours of the park to
see the spawning salmon, children’s
activities, salmon-friendly home & gar-
dening information and more. Also par-
ticipating are Tahoma Audubon Society,
Green Tacoma Partnership and Cascade
Land Conservancy. Take a tour, stroll or
hike on your own, or simply stop by to
pick up free resource materials. But don’t
miss this great event!
Friends of Swan Creek Watershed’s
mission is to cultivate environmental
stewardship through educational and
volunteer opportunities. They welcome
the participation of individuals, families,
groups and schools to learn and work
together to preserve this valuable natural
resource in our urban landscape.
For more information about their activ-
ities, or to sign up for email notices, con-
tact Sue Bernstein, 253-472-7264 or
e-mail her at swancreek@prodigy.net.

Calendar
- continued from back page
Dec 16 Tue 3:30–5:00 PM Snake Lake Science Club at Tacoma Nature
Center. Ages 10-14, no charge for club meetings, $10 per student to
join the club. Snake Lake Science Club is for homeschool and other
students age 10-14 years old who want to learn more about science
and the natural world. Students pay a once-per-school-year fee of $10
to join the Science Club and are then free to participate in any program
offerings, including the 2009 Snake Lake Science Fair. The following
programs are designed to help students learn more about science and
the scientific process through hands-on discovery. Pre-registration for
each program is required as space is limited. Also:
Jan 20 Thinking Like a Scientist
Feb 17 Got science?
Dec 16 Tue 5:00-6:00 PM Morse Force Meeting Location: Adriana
Hess
Dec 18 Thu 1:00-3:00 PM Advanced Science – Physiology at Tacoma
Nature Center. Call 253-591-6439 to register. Homeschool students
explore science through hands-on experiments, activities and inquiry-
based learning. Register early, these classes fill quickly! Ages 12-15,
$12. Older homeschool students will continue their science studies with
challenging and engaging experiments and activities. To participate in
this class, students should be able to calculate averages, percentages
and solve simple equations.
Also: Feb 26 Advanced Science: Bio-Science: Zoology
Dec 18 Thu 5:00-6:00 PM Education Committee Meeting. Location:
Adriana Hess Conference Room.
Dec 19 Fri 10:00 AM-12:00 PM TGIF Breakfast & Work Party
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Habitat restoration (planting,
invasive species removal, pruning.) V
Dec 19 Fri 10:30-11:30 AM Nature Storytime-call Hess for details.
-Nature’s Naptime
Dec 19 Fri 1:00-4:00 PM Advanced Lab – Physiology. Location:
Tacoma Nature Center. Call 253-591-6439 to register. Homeschool
students explore science through hands-on experiments, activities and
inquiry-based learning. Register early, these classes fill quickly! Ages
12-15, $12. An expanded science class for Advanced Homeschool
Science students which includes an integrated laboratory session as an
extension of the two-hour classroom session. Students get greater in-
depth investigation of the monthly topic, practice in problem-solving
and research skills and hands-on experimentation. Attendance in the
class session is required for participation in a lab session. Lab sessions
are not required for participation in class sessions. Also:
Jan 30 Taxonomy
Feb 27 Zoology
Dec 20 Sat:  CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT!!  See article in Towhee.  magic tape (green plaid dispenser), small scissors and a craft cutting
For more information, contact Faye McAdams Hands at  253-942-
9233 or zest4parus@hotmail.com.
Dec 21 Sun 8:00-11:30 AM Nature Walk at Point Defiance Park.
Join author Rob McNair-Huff for a 5-mile walk through the forests at
Point Defiance Park. The trip starts at the back of the parking lot for
the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium. Come prepared for a healthy
walk through the park in changeable weather conditions. Winter bird
highlights can include waterfowl, Bald Eagles and forest birds. For
more information, e-mail rob@whiterabbits.com.
Dec 26 Fri 10:00 AM-12:00 PM TGIF Breakfast & Work Party.
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Habitat restoration (planting,
invasive species removal, pruning.) V
Dec 28 Sun:  Please join one of our partner Audubon chapters for their
Christmas Bird Count!   F
Vashon CBC: For the Gig Harbor portion, contact Diane Yorgason-
Quinn at 253-857-3367 or avosetta@hotmail.com.  For island count,
contact Sue Trevathan at 206-463-1484 or sue.trevathan@centurytel.
net. Rainier (Kent/Auburn): Contact Nancy Streiffert at 253-796-2203
or nancy_streiffert@hotmail.com.
january 2009
Jan 2 Fri 10:00 AM-12:00 PM. TGIF Breakfast & Work Party.
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Habitat restoration (planting,
invasive species removal, pruning) V
Jan 3 Sat 7:21-11:21 AM. Seabird Survey 4 Location: assigned sites.
Jan 8 Thu 6:30-8:30 PM. TAS Board Meeting. Location: Adriana Hess
Audubon Center Monthly Meeting of the Tahoma Audubon Board.
Guest Welcome, please call ahead at 253-565-9278.
Jan 9 Fri 10:00 AM-12:00 PM. TGIF Breakfast & Work Party.
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Habitat restoration (planting,
invasive species removal, pruning) V
Jan 9 Fri 7:00-9:00 PM. Membership Meeting. Location: Tacoma
Nature Center, 1919 S. Tyler Street. All welcome. Check web site for
prograM-www.TahomaAudubon.org. Call 253-565-9278
Jan 11 Sun 7:00 AM-2:00 PM. Point Wilson field trip. Location: Point
Wilson, Fort Flagler, Port Townsend area. Leader: Ruth Sullivan. The
primary targets for this field trip are winter waterfowl in the Strait of
Juan de Fuca and the North Puget Sound. Hope for Marbled and
Ancient Murrelet, Pigeon Guillemont, Rhinoceros Auklet, Common
Murre, Harlequin Ducks, Long-tailed Ducks, Brants, 3 species of
Loon, and many shorebirds on the spit of Fort Flagler. Dress for cold
wind and the ever present possibility of rain. This is an all-day trip. We
meet at 7:00 am at the Park and Ride at 6th Ave. close to the Narrows
Bridge. For reservations call 253-565-9278. F
Jan 12 Mon 12:00-1:00 PM Bird Walk at Hess. F
Jan 13 Tue 4:00-5:30 PM. Conservation Committee. Location: Adriana
Hess Wetland Park, 2917 Morrison Road W, University Place.
Jan 13 Tue 6:30-8:30 PM Nature Snapshots: Birds at Tacoma Nature
Center. Ages 12 and up, $15 per person or $30 per family (4 people
max) Join us for a “snapshot” of nature as we explore the basics of
identification and help families learn a few of the local native wildlife.
Call 253-591-6439 to register.
Jan 15 Thu 5:00-6:00 PM. Education Committee Meeting. Location:
Adriana Hess Conference Room.
Jan 16 Fri 10:00 AM-12:00 PM. TGIF Breakfast & Work Party.
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Habitat restoration (planting,
invasive species removal, pruning). V
Jan 17 Sat 2:00-4:00 PM Snake Lake Science Fair Parent/ Student
Workshop.
Jan 19 Mon 12:00-1:00 PM Plant walk at Hess. F
Jan 20 Tue 6:00–8:00 PM Snake Lake Science Fair Parent/ Student
workshop at T.N.C.
Jan 23 Fri 10:00 AM-12:00 PM. TGIF Breakfast & Work Party.
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Habitat restoration (planting,
invasive species removal, pruning). V
Jan 23 Fri 10:30–11:30 AM Nature Storytime-call Hess for details.
“Snow & Ice.”
Jan 30 Fri 10:00 AM-12:00 PM. TGIF Breakfast & Work Party.
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Habitat restoration (planting,
invasive species removal, pruning). V
february 2009
Feb 4 Wed 6:30-9:00 PM Valentine Card Class at Adriana Hess
Center. Rosanne Becker shows you how to fill in Valentine shapes with
colorful strips of paper or ribbon that spiral to the center or iris. Leave
class with at least two cards and patterns to make your own! Just bring
scotch magic tape (green plaid dispenser), small scissors and a craft
cutting mat if possible! Cost: $15 paid at class. Call 253-565-9278 to
reserve your spot! Email: tatkimmah@aol.com or call 253-564-7115
for questions.
Feb 6 Fri 10:00 AM-12:00 PM. TGIF Breakfast & Work Party.
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Habitat restoration (planting,
invasive species removal, pruning). V
Feb 7 Sat 11:58 AM-3:58 PM. Seabird Survey 5. Location: assigned
survey sites.
Feb 9 Mon 12:00-1:00 PM Bird Walk at Hess. F
Feb 10 Tue 4:00-5:30 PM. Conservation Committee. Location:
Adriana Hess Wetland Park, 2917 Morrison Road W, University Place,
WA 98466
Feb 10 Tue 6:30– 8:30 PM Nature Snapshots: Mammals at Tacoma
Nature Center Ages 12 and up, $15 per person or $30 per family (4
people max) Join us for a “snapshot” of nature as we explore the
basics of identification and help families learn a few of the local native
wildlife. Call 253-591-6439 to register.
Feb 10 Tue 6:30-9:00 PM. Valentine Card Class. Adriana Hess Center.
Rosanne Beckershows you how to fill in Valentine shapes with colorful
strips of paper or ribbon that spiral to the center or iris. Leave class with
at least two cards and patterns to make your own! Just bring scotch
mat if possible! Cost: $15 paid at class. Call 565-9278 to reserve your
spot! Email: tatkimmah@aol.com or call 253-564-7115 for questions.
Feb 12 6:30 PM-8:30 PM. TAS Board Meeting. Adriana Hess
Audubon Center. Monthly Meeting of the Tahoma Audubon Board.
Guest Welcome, please call ahead at 253-565-9278.
Checks payable to: Tahoma Audubon 2917 Morrison
Rd. W. University Place, 98466 Tahoma Audubon
Society, established in 1969, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit

Membership Fee:
___ Introductory (first year) $20
___ Joint National/Tahoma Audubon $50
organization. Donations are tax deductible.

Membership

___
___
Chapter member renewal
Other Contributions _____________
$30

Tahoma Audubon is the Pierce County chapter of National Audubon. As

an Introductory member of Tahoma Audubon you also receive a National Member(s) Name: _______________________________________
Audubon membership and Audubon Magazine for one year. Renewing Address: _______________________________________________
your Chapter Membership ensures that we can continue to do our work in
Pierce County. Chapter membership includes: Towhee newsletter sub- City______________________________ Zip__________________
scription, free family events, birding trip invitations, class & book dis- Phone: home ___________________business _________________
counts, conservation activities, annual celebrations and more. Joint TAS/
e-mail: ________________________________________________
National Audubon membership includes: Chapter membership, National
membership, annual Audubon Magazine subscription, and support of
Member #: _______________________________ (office use only)
Important Bird Areas (IBA) and state and national conservation agendas.

December 2008/January 2009 www.tahomaaudubon.org Page 11


december 2008
Dec 2 Tue 10:30–11:30 AM Nature Alphabet: Y is for Yippy
Coyotes at Tacoma Nature Center. Preschoolers explore different
nature stories, hands-on activities, nature walks, and crafts. Register
by the Sat before the program by calling 253-591-6439. Also:
Dec 16 Tue 1:30-2:30 PM Nature Alphabet Z is for Zany.
Jan 13 Tue 10:30–11:30 AM Nature Alphabet: A is for Apple
Jan 27 Tue 1:30–2:30 PM Nature Alphabet: B is for Busy Beavers
Feb 10 Tue 10:30 – 11:30 AM Nature Alphabet: C is for Colorful
Critters
Feb 24 Tue 1:30–2:30 PM Nature Alphabet: D is for Dragonfly
Dec 3 Wed 7:30-11:00 AM Weekly Bird Walks at Nisqually Join
Phil on his weekly bird walks as he counts the birds at Nisqually
NWR. Meet: At the Visitor’s Center. The group may walk out to
McAllister Creek if trail is open. Then, takes the boardwalk/trail
loop out to the Twin Barns, the Nisqually overlook area, and the
riparian area, totaling about 3 miles. Bring: Good walking shoes or
boots, raingear, water, snacks, and $3 for entry fee unless you have
a pass. Scopes are welcome. Sign-up: Call or email Phil Kelley to
confirm details (especially during the trail construction period). Phil
Kelley, Lacey, 360-459-1499, scrubjay323@aol.com . F
Weekly trips: Dec 10 Dec 17 Dec 24Dec 31
Jan 7 Jan 14 Jan 21 Jan 28
Feb 4 Feb 11 Feb 18
Dec 3 Wed 10:30 AM-12:00 PM and 3:15 -4:45 PM Budding
Scientists -The 5+ Senses. Location: Adriana Hess Audubon Center.
Call 253-591-6439 to register. Homeschool students explore science
through hands-on experiments, activities and inquiry-based learning.
Register early, these classes fill quickly! Ages 5-7, $8 per child,
10:30 AM-noon or 3:15 pm–4:45 Young homeschoolers and other
children begin science and nature exploration through games, walks
and crafts. Register at least two days prior to the session. This class is
held at the Adriana Hess Audubon Center, University Place.
Also: Jan 14 “Bunches & Groups”
Jan 28 “Naming Names.”
Feb 11 “Adaptations for Life”
Feb 25 “Animals, Animals Everywhere”
Dec 4 Thu 9:30-11:30 AM and Beginning Science -The Inside Story
at Tacoma Nature Center. Call 253-591-6439 to register. Homeschool
students explore science through hands-on experiments, activities
and inquiry-based learning. Register early, these classes fill quickly!
Ages 8-10, $10 To participate in this class, students should be able to
add and subtract numbers. Also:
Jan 15 Thu 9:30–11:30 AM and 1–3:00 PM What’s in a Name?
Feb 12 Thu 9:30– 11:30 AM and 1:00-3:00 PM Amazing Animal
Dec 4 Thu 5:30-8:00 PM Green Drinks Tacoma Location: Woody’s
on the Water, 1715 Dock St, Tacoma. Drinks is hosted by Tahoma
Audubon in December! Monthly social gathering meetings on
the first Thursday of each month at various locations in Tacoma,
starting at 6:00 PM. Join others with an interest in the environment,
conservation and sustainability for our monthly social gathering! If
you’d like to receive future announcements about Tacoma Green
Drinks gatherings, consider taking advantage of our new list, hosted
by One/NW. This is an announcements-only list for occasional
reminders about our monthly gatherings. To subscribe, contact Karin
at earthoutreach@yahoo.com. Monthly announcements also appear
at www.greendrinks.org.
Dec 5 Thu 10:00 AM-12:00 PM TGIF Breakfast & Work Party
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park Habitat restoration (planting,
invasive species removal, pruning) V
Dec 6 Sat 9:06 AM-1:06 PM Seabird Survey 3 Location: assigned
survey sites
Dec 7 Sun 6:30 AM-5:00 PM Kittitas County Birding in Winter.
Calendar
Co-Leaders -Charlie Wright and Roger Orness. Come enjoy a day
of winter-season birding in central Washington. We will venture
over Snoqualmie Pass and visit areas including Swauk Prairie and
South Cle Elum along our route. Large numbers of raptors are seen
wintering in the open, snow-covered fields of Kittitas. Proceeding
east we will reach the Columbia River at Vantage, where waterfowl
are sometimes present in vast numbers. Some target species will
include unusual loons, ducks, American White Pelicans, and possibly
rare gulls. Chukar are occasionally seen. Bring many layers of
clothing for cold weather conditions, a lunch, and snacks. Scopes are
welcome. Space is limited. Meet: At 6:30 AM at Auburn Safeway
at Auburn Way and Main St. Take Hwy. 18 to Auburn and exit at
Auburn Way. (Hwy 164). Turn north (right) on Auburn Way and
drive three blocks north. Safeway sign and gas station will be on the
left. Park in the Safeway lot just beyond the gas station and straight
out from the Safeway door. We will meet and carpool (promptly)
from there. Contact Roger Orness to sign-up, r.orness@comcast.net,
253-922-7516. E-mail is preferred. F
Dec 7 Sun 9:00 AM-12:00 PM Ohop Field Trip/NatureMapping
Location: Ohop Creek
Dec 8 Mon 12:00-1:00 PM Bird Walk @ Adriana Hess F
Dec 9 Tue 4:00-5:30 PM Conservation Committee Location:
Adriana Hess Wetland Park, 2917 Morrison Road W, University
Place, WA 98466
Dec 10 Wed 6:30-9:00 PM Card Class Location: Adriana Hess
Center. Rosanne Becker: Instructor. Christmas Iris Fold Card Class.
Fill in holiday shapes with colorful strips of paper or ribbon that
spiral to the center or iris. Leave class with at least two cards and
patterns to make your own! Just bring scotch magic tape, small
scissors and a craft cutting mat if possible! Cost: $15 paid at class.
Email: tatkimmah@aol.com for questions/comments
Dec 11 Thu 1:00-3:00 PM Intermediate Science -All Systems Go! at
Tacoma Nature Center. Call 253-591-6439 to register. Homeschool
students explore science through hands-on experiments, activities
Tahoma audubon Programs
 FREE to members and non-members!!
Topic: Binoculars, scopes, and diopters. Oh my!
~ Informative presentation in time for the holidays!
When: Friday, December 12, 2008
Where: Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 South Tyler
Who: Jim Danzenbaker, Kowa Optics and Jim Ullrich,
Wild Birds Unlimited owner
Time: Refreshments@ 7:15 P.M. Meeting@ 7:30 P.M.
“Interpupillary Distance”, “Eye Relief”, “Exit Pupil”,
“Diopter”….. – if these terms make your head start to
spin, attend this informative workshop which will
cover the how-to’s and why’s of optics.  We will dis-
cuss the questions you need to ask yourself about
your own optics usage, delve into the technical terms
used in the optics world and finally, the best ways to
test optics.  After this workshop, you will be armed
with the information that you need to make an
informed optics purchase and also you’ll know
exactly how to effectively use optics that you have.  Recommendations for future programs: contact
Jim Danzenbaker is the Sales Manager at Kowa
Optimed, Inc.  He has presented this workshop at
many different venues across the country.  reach you for further information.
F Field Trip Page
V Volunteer page
M Environment Matters Page
A Related article in Towhee
E Education Page
and inquiry-based learning. Register early, these classes fill quickly!
Ages 8-10, $10, To participate in this class, students should be able
to add and subtract numbers.
Also: Jan 22 Thu 1:00–3:00 PM How to tell a Gnat from a Gnu
Dec 11 Thu 6:30-8:30 PM TAS Board Meeting Location: Adriana
Hess Audubon Center. Monthly Meeting of the Tahoma Audubon
Board. Guest Welcome, please call ahead at 253-565-9278.
Dec 12 Fri 10:00 AM-12:00 PM TGIF Breakfast & Work Party
Location: Adriana Hess Wetland Park. Habitat restoration (planting,
invasive species removal, pruning.) V
Dec 12 Fri 7:00-9:00 PM Membership Meeting Location: Tacoma
Nature Center, 1919 S. Tyler Street Monthly membership meeting
of Tahoma Audubon. All welcome.
Dec 15 Mon 12:00-1:00 PM Plant Walk @ Adriana Hess F
Dec 15 Mon 6:30-9:00 PM Rosanne Becker: Instructor Christmas
Iris Fold Card Class. Fill in holiday shapes with colorful strips of
paper or ribbon that spiral to the center or iris. Leave class with at
least two cards and patterns to make your own! Just bring scotch
magic tape, small scissors and a craft cutting mat if possible! Cost:
$15 paid at class. Call 253-565-9278 to reserve your spot! Email:
tatkimmah@aol.com or call 253-564-7115 for questions.
Calendar continued inside on page 11.
Topic:  On The Wing, The story and spectacle of
birds that gave a city a spectacular show and the
people who gave the flock a place to stay
When: Friday, January 9, 2009
Where: Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 South Tyler
Who: Dan Viens, Real Earl Productions. More details
at swiftsmovie.com
Time: Refreshments@ 7:15 P.M. Meeting@ 7:30 P.M..
On The Wing tells the story of a remarkable flock of
tiny birds called Vaux Swifts that made the chimney
of a Portland, Oregon elementary school their home.
The city responded by turning the Swift spectacle
into a cult phenomenon and a wonderful example of
how we can all live sustainably in harmony with
nature. The film captures the community, energy and
excitement of the Swift experience and the quirky
city where it all happens.
Katrina at katweihs@earthlink.net or 253-304-6422. 
Be sure to include contacts, topics, and best times to

For additional information:Tahoma Audubon - 253-565-9278; or www.tahomaaudubon.org

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Or The Tacoma Nature Center:253-591-6439 or www.metroparkstacoma.org

From all
Towhee The

your December 2008/January 2009

friends In this issue:
at the 25 years ago page 8
Tahoma Announcements
BirdSongs
page 9
page 8
Audubon Bryan Flint column page 2
Christmas Bird Count page 1
Society! Education page 4
Environment matters page 3
Field trips page 5
New members page 10
R. Kelton Volunteer recognition page 10