Congratulations to Michael Barton, "Why I Love Tryon Creek State Natural Area" video contest winner

Michael Barton, with son Patrick, accepts award from Friends' Executive Director David Cohen

In August 2012 the Friends of Tryon Creek kicked off their first-ever video contest on the theme, “Why I Love Tryon Creek State Natural Area”. Entries were accepted through October 31^st and the Friends were struck by the fact that each entry, regardless of its content, captured the beauty, tranquility, inspiration and joy that one experiences in the forest at Tryon Creek.

Michael Barton, a regular park visitor who recently welcomed his new daughter into the world, won the contest, and on November 14^th he received congratulations from the Friends' Executive Director David Cohen. Cohen also presented Barton with a prize package valued at $370 featuring items from contest sponsors Columbia Sportswear, REI, Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery, and Voodoo Doughnut, as well as a copy of “Wild in the City: Exploring the Intertwine”.  

The Friends appreciate the efforts of all who submitted entries and wish them luck next year.

                             "Let Me Show You", Michael Barton's winning video contest entry

Celebrating our Fantastic Volunteers

 

The Friends of Tryon Creek LOVE our fantastic volunteers (we couldn't do what we do without them)! On Sunday, July 29th, we showered them with love and affection - and food! In the early evening volunteers gathered at the Jackson Shelter in the park to be wined and dined by the Friends' staff and board at the annual Volunteer Appreciation BBQ...

Matthew Collins, the Friends' Education Director, and Linda Koser, the Friends' Field Trip Coordinator, on barbecue duty

 Friends' staff, board and volunteers spent the evening socializing, enjoying the barbecue and...

Dynamic duo "Curls and Scruff"

 ...listening and dancing to live music from local favorites Curls and Scruff!

 

As the evening drew to a close Linda Koser shared a real treat for dessert: Voodoo doughnuts!

Volunteers Patty...

...and Keith...

...and Heather and Scott are excited about those doughnuts!

We think it is physically impossible NOT to smile when one is about to enjoy a doughnut!

When you mix in the other highlights of the evening - great company, fun conversation, tasty food, lively music and dancing - well, the end result is joy and pure gratitude for coming together and celebrating the Friends' community. We are grateful for the opportunity to express our appreciation for the hundreds of volunteers whose dedication and hard work throughout the year allows our organization to accomplish all that it does. Thank You for all you do!