Emmett Mayberry, Elizabeth Mayberry, Kelley Jewel, Shannon Pignataro and
Michelle Long from Kennard Elementary School in Centreville won their
division in Saturday's World Series of Birding. Steiner Optics sponsored
the team, the Merlins.
The kids were the first out of state team to enter the Elementary School
Division of the WSB and the first team to find over 100 species in the
Elementary School Division. They had 111 species. They started birding
at 5:00 am (first bird = robin) and finished at 9:00 pm (last bird =
woodcock). 2 1/2 days of scouting really helped them out on the Big Day.
The day ended at the Meadows. As each kid got out of the car, they
excitedly said "I hear it!" as the woodcocks were peenting actively and
loudly. A tremendous adrenaline rush for them and for the driver, too.
The parent support team also needs to be congratulated for providing
lunches and dinners at various random locations throughout Cape May
County. I am told that they also contributed significantly to the Cape
May economy with shopping expeditions held between feedings!
The kids did an unbelievable job of staying focused during a long day of
birding.
Jim Wilson
Queenstown. |