Last week, the National Butterfly Center was the site of a “microburst event.” Prior to learning this term from the National Weather Service, we only had one word to describe the damage observed across the property: tornado. Thankfully, the Monarch Palapa, Chrysalis Visitor’s Pavilion and other structures were spared, but we lost dozens of trees in the gardens, Hackberry Trail and parking lots.
Following a week of intense clean up, we’re ready to replant as we continue our march toward October, when we look forward to welcoming you to the annual Texas Butterfly Festival, which will also be NABA’s Biennial Member’s Meeting. If you have not registered yet, do so soon before scheduled field trips are full!
Ready, Aim, Win!
Remember the North American Butterfly Photo Contest will open September 1 for submissions; so charge up your batteries and go spend some time outside, where the butterflies are. This is your chance to win $500 and have your work exhibited at the National Butterfly Center for all to see! Click here for complete rules regarding participation.
2015 Honorable Mention by Chris Balboni
Regarding Miss Rosie
THANK YOU to all who have donated to Miss Rosie Mahindra’s memorial fund, so we may replace our old tractor. Events such as last week’s terrible storm only stress the importance of this piece of equipment to our continued operation. Your contributions, including TWO $5,000 gifts, have brought our total to about $25,000. This leaves us just $5,000 short of our $30,000 goal.
Again, we appreciate all our visitors, members and donors have done to ensure the sustainability of your project. We are grateful beyond measure and can’t wait to introduce you to Rosie’s successor!
Camps for Kids
Make it a supper summer at the National Butterfly Center. This year we have three, week-long camps for children ages 7 – 12, in the month of July. Each week features a different theme with activities designed to build skills and knowledge. All equipment provided. Space is limited. Click here to register, today!
Safe & Smart
Our executive director recently returned from the International Children & Nature Conference. Here’s a new blog about the most important lesson she learned from this very special event:
Children today spend an average of 7.5 minutes outside for every 7 hours they spend online.
Just let that sink in.
This statement by Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods, silenced the packed room at the opening ceremony of the Children & Nature International Conference.
I signed up to attend and traveled to St. Paul for one specific reason, and suddenly, my agenda was blown. Read more...
TIME TO REGISTER!
Registration is now OPEN for the 21st Annual Texas Butterfly Festival! This year, the event will also host the Biennial Members’ Meeting of the North American Butterfly Association. This combined event changes the activities format a bit, but the great workshops, field trips, featured speakers and food remain! Visit www.TexasButterflyFestival.com to learn more and register, today.
Regarding Miss Rosie
