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.