Bird Talk - Erika Gates
International Migratory Bird Day Art Competition winners announced
By Erika Gates
Nov 29, 2011 - 12:38:03 PM

Winning art students from left to right: First prize Vernesse Henderson, Bishop Michael Eldon, second prize Terrence Bain, Jack Hayward High, third prize Ciera Sweeting, St. Paul's Methodist, and Ediesha McIntosh, St. Georges High, top right honourable mention Denzel Lightbourne, St. Georges High. Top row from left to right: Garden of the Groves IMBD co-ordinator Marilyn Laing with judges Rudy Sawyer, Lou Lihou, Julie Ryan

Freeport, Grand Bahama Island - The student art competition during International Migratory Bird Month at Garden of the Groves climaxed with the judging of the best paintings depicting birds migrating to Grand Bahama Island. Over 30 students presented outstanding works under the theme "Go Wild, Go Birding" and the judges had a difficult time to determine the winners. First prize was $ 100.00, second $ 50.00 and two third prizes were awarded in the amount of $ 25.00 each. All monies to be redeemed for school and educational supplies at Bellevue Gifts and Bellevue Business Depot.

"I am very impressed with the outstanding quality of these pictures". commented Erika Gates of Garden of the Groves "the details in the drawings of the birds are so accurate that I am able to identify each of their birds which is amazing!"

Erika Gates – Bird Talk: owner of Kayak Nature Tours (one of the first Eco-Tour businesses in The Bahamas); co-founder of the Ecotourism Association; a published writer; and a Cacique award winner! Her column Bird Talk will enlighten and educate us about birds of The Bahamas, as well as the importance of Ecology. Erika can be reached at gbntours@hotmail.com