Yesterday's program, Tom Ricardi's "Birds of Prey" sure brought a lot of folks eager to see rehabilitated wild birds and learn more about them.
I'd like to thank Tom for coming back again. We try to have him here every two or three years as we believe in his mission and we love to have programs which engage children as well as this one does.

That being said, we never imagined that such a large crowd would show up yesterday. Car parking was very challenging. Fortunately, the weather was perfect and we were able to open wide the barn doors so as many as possible could get a peek.

So, thanks to our guests who were patient and understanding. You shared space, adjusted your expectations so as many as possible could see at least some of the program. Folks were generally in a good mood despite the obstructed views. It seemed as if most children were able to get inside the barn & sit in the front where the view of the amazing birds was best.

I know Tom was also a bit frustrated by the situation, but he tried to make the best of it and answered questions well after the official program was over. Our heartfelt thanks go out to him, as always.

I'd like to add that Tom makes presentations throughout western Massachusetts. For more info and to support his vision, please visit his Face Book page: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153698185696323.1073741913.12436156322&type=3&_rdr

Join us this Sunday, November 3 from 1:30–2:30 pm for Birds of Prey with Tom Ricardi! Mr. Ricardi cares for dozens of falcons, owls, eagles and other raptors that have been injured in some way. He rescues an average of 125–150 birds a year and does a lot of work with local animal control and the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. There is no admission fee but donations are always accepted. All are welcome and we hope to see you there!

I also wanted to mention that, in honor of the season, "Seasonal Cactus" (AKA Christmas Cactus) cuttings are available in the gift shop.
These come from our large, OG cactus which has buds right now and some will likely be open when you visit. As is often true about these plants, ours seems to bloom whimsically and irregularly throughout the year. I suppose the (very healthy-looking) cuttings will do that, too, when they get established.

There are only a few of the current batch left - c'mon down!