Workshops about gifts for wildlife friends and natural, creative gift wrapping for this holiday season will be offered at Pinellas County's Weedon Island Preserve. Also, capturing the natural beauty and early history of Florida will headline six free programs offered in December at Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center in St. Petersburg.
Saturday, Dec. 2 - Free Winged Wonders of Weedon Island Special Art Exhibit opening from 1 a.m. until 4 p.m. Everyone is welcome to meet renowned naturalist and wildlife artist Ernest C. Simmons who creates signature works of art based on his knowledge of the natural world. Simmons is that rare artist who has the ability to capture on canvas the beauty of his subjects in extraordinary detail. Watch Simmons as he paints a magnificent wildlife work of art. The exhibit will continue through January 2007.
Saturday, Dec. 2 - Free Weedon Island Journeys through Paradise: Pioneering Naturalists in Florida presentation from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. Anyone over 12 years old will enjoy hearing about how early naturalists tramped through Florida's wilderness and whose voices urged preservation of wild places. Gail Fishman, author and independent scholar, will provide a glimpse into naturalists' lives, recount their accomplishments and failings while illustrating a landscape now almost completely erased. Register now.
Saturday, Dec. 9 - Free Weedon Island Creating Gifts for Backyard Wildlife Workshop from 11 a.m. until noon. All family members can find how to create some fun and easy gifts for four and two-legged residents living in our neighborhoods. Learn how to make attractive food treats that will keep your furred and feathered neighbors happy throughout the holidays.
Thursday, Dec. 14 - Free Weedon Island Early Florida Archaeologist Lecture about pioneering archaeologist Frank Hamilton Cushing from 6:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Anyone over 10 years old can follow in the footsteps of Cushing as he explores the Gulf Coast of Florida more than 100 years ago. Weedon Island Preserve's own Phyllis E. Kolianos will present her research and awarding-winning books about Cushings' extraordinary adventures.
Friday, Dec. 15 - Free Weedon Extended Night Hike from 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. Adults can develop their inner nocturnal selves while exploring the depths of the Preserve without flashlights. Visitors have the rare opportunity to explore the far corners of the Preserve on this 3-mile hike. Hiking without flashlights allows participants to develop their night senses more fully, creating a rich and exciting nigh experience Register early.
Sunday, Dec. 17 - Free Weedon Island Make Your Holidays Green Workshop from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. Gift-givers over 5 years old can learn more environmentally friendly ideas for wrapping presents and creating decorations that are naturally beautiful. Participants are welcome to bring gifts to get a head start on wrapping for the holiday season.
The Weedon Island Preserve is located at 1800 Weedon Drive NE in St. Petersburg, on the shores of Old Tampa Bay near the Gandy Bridge. For more information about these events or other programs, call the Weedon Island Cultural and Natural History Center at (727) 453-6500.