 |
 |
|
|
[From Winter 1999]
For the first time in recent history, CNWR participated in Chincoteague's Christmas parade. The staff volunteered well over 200 hours to create the holiday float entitled Pulling For Wildlife. Nine piping plovers pulling the sleigh of Delmarva's Kris Kringle Fox Squirrel was the concept of the float.
The masterpiece started as mere silhouettes of piping plovers and a fox squirrel cut from plywood. Wrapping the plywood with chicken wire and stuffing it with newspaper created the shape of the animal's bodies. Papier-mache and paint added the finishing touch. Reigns of lights, artificial snow, and Christmas presents highlighted the float and gave it needed detail. Cost was held down by reusing old and scrap materials from maintenance.
On the night of December 4, the staffs efforts were rewarded. Driven by Refuge Manager, John Schroer, and accompanied by staff members, Kendra Willet, James Willet, Kelsee Willet, Sally Bowden, Susan Merritt, Kim Mills, and Robert Wilson, the float sailed on without a snag. The icing on top of the cake came when Pullin
For Wildlife won I st place in the non- commercial float category. But, more importantly, the refuge was a part of Chincoteague's holiday tradition and joined the community in celebrating the spirit of the season.
Special thanks go to the float's visionary, Ray Paterra, and all of his elves: Dana Dukes, Laurel Faith, Tom Penn, Alison McGuire, John Ross, Beth Homa, Shawn Eisele, Eva Savage, Raymond Savage, Kendra Willet, James Willet, and Holly Toadvine.
Alison McGuire - Public Use Intern, CNWR
Home / About the Association / Membership Information / The Piping
Plover
Mail Order / Index
/ Web Port / Search