Amongst the photos adorning page 21 of the June 26, 1985 edition of the Clarkston News is Lynn Conover, attaching a stuffed woodpecker to a tree exhibit at the new Wint Nature Center at Independence Oaks.
Twenty-five years later, both are still going strong.
‘I love what I do and I do what I love,? said Conover, naturalist at the Lewis E. Wint Nature Center. “I’m blessed to be able to work here and build a strong foundation for children’s love of nature.?
The center, located in Independence Oaks County Park, 9501 Sashabaw Road, celebrates its 25th anniversary all year.
Tuning Your Tot seasonal program for children 3-6, also celebrating its 25th year, was this past weekend. Patrons attending a nature center program through June receive a buy-one-get-one-free wave pool coupon, attend four programs, get one free.
They are also creating a Wint Nature Center Memory Tree, inviting event participants to write down memories and submit photos on leaf-shaped forms.
For a memory leaf form or complete listing of events at the Wint Nature Center, visit DestinationOakland.com.
“It’s amazing to see what people remember about various aspects of our programming ? very gratifying to be a part of people’s appreciation of the natural world,” said Tim Nowicki, recreation program supervisor.
“It’s pretty amazing ? we’re getting a second generation of participants,” said Dan Stencil, Oakland County Parks executive officer. “It’s very important for us. it’s part of our initiative to get youth reacquainted with the outdoors.”
Entrants are included in a drawing to win an Oakland County Park Family Fun Pass Book, worth $150.
Winner will be selected at the Tuning Your Tot 25th Anniversary Celebration, set for 1-4 p.m., June 26.
“We’ll have bouncers, food, music, all free,” Conover said. “We’ll have the music group Gemina, the best family musicians today.?
For more information, call 248-625-6473.