On March 14, the Plateau Chapter of the Tennessee Trails Association (TTA) will host the third part of the 2024 four-part speaker series educational program. This monthly event is presented as a public service in support of the TTA’s statewide mission of promoting hiking, building, and maintaining trails and encouraging sustainable use of nature’s wonderland.
In January, people were presented with a visual rendition outlining the State Park Service’s work to expand the Cumberland Trail. This was followed in February by the TENNGREEN Land Conservancy’s leadership speaking about their efforts to establish and preserve green corridors throughout the state.
Now the public is invited to see firsthand some of nature’s own evolutionary efforts that thrive and contribute to the health of our valuable wilderness.
This third presentation will be an interactive discussion and live demonstration by John Stokes and Dale Kernahan, founders, in 2012, of the not-for-profit organization Wings-to-Soar. Their expertise in caring for and handling birds of prey, often referred to as raptors, comes from their combined 72-plus years of experience at zoos, aviaries, wildlife game preserves, and various educational institutes. They hold numerous credentials that include the prestigious Licensed Master Falconer certification.
The duo’s presentation will combine an enlightening discussion that is intended to increase the public’s awareness about the vital role birds-of-prey have in enhancing and maintaining nature’s wilderness. Kernahan and Stokes have conducted thousands of talks on this subject, including starring in the Dollywood “Wings of America” show. This exciting and educational event will emphasize the characteristics and habits of some of their more notable birds and include a flight demonstration to show the capabilities of some of the birds in their care.
The program will begin at 6 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church Annex, 69 Neecham Street in downtown Crossville. Since seating is limited, those interested in attending should make their wishes known as soon as possible by RSVPing John Martin, Speaker Series Coordinator, via email at jr.dmartin77@gmail.com and, as a courtesy to the speakers, please plan to arrive at least five minutes early so you can sign in and be seated.
For those interested in learning more about “Wings-to-Soar” visit www.soarsouth.org.