A Day Dedicated to the Environment, Children and Raptors Returns to Green Chimneys

BREWSTER, N.Y., June 3 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --  Green Chimneys knows firsthand the tragic consequences of an oil spill.   For nearly 20 years, the non-profit organization has cared for an American bald eagle that had its wing amputated after the Exxon Valdez oil spill.   That rescued eagle was the catalyst for "With Wings and a Prayer: Birds of Prey Day."  The event, now in its 18th year, is being held Sunday, June 6 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Green Chimneys campus in Brewster, NY.

"Birds of Prey Day is dedicated to the environment, children and raptors,"   says Green Chimneys' wildlife specialist and master falconer Paul Kupchok, who spearheads the annual event.  "It's a day to get off the computer, get outside and learn how to make a difference."  

Each year, Birds of Prey Day draws thousands of people to Brewster for a day of fun, flight and falconry.  This year's program will feature naturalist Jim Fowler, Bill Robinson of Wildlife Lectures, Brian Bradley of Skyhunters, James Eyring of Pace Environmental Center, Jonathan Wood of the Raptor Project, Maggie Howell and Atka of the Wolf Conservation Center and others.  

There are free-flying bird demonstrations, a stage show, more than 100 raptors, hayrides and more. The highlight of the day will be the release of a rehabilitated hawk and a turkey vulture by hockey great Mike Richter and a former student.

"At Green Chimneys, we teach our students to respect and treasure nature," says Kupchok.  "Our bald eagle teaches the importance of protecting the environment and shows you can live with a disability and be loved by many. Here it is 20 years later, and the biggest oil spill in history is in the headlines.  It feels like deja vu.  More wildlife is suffering and dying because of carelessness.   It's so frustrating, especially when these things can be prevented."

Founded in 1947, Green Chimneys restores possibilities and creates futures for children with emotional, behavioral, social and learning challenges.  It is world renowned for its animal-assisted and nature-based therapeutic programs and operates a residential treatment center for children, a special education school, a farm and wildlife rehabilitation center and other programs dedicated to providing a better future for children and animals.  More information is available at www.greenchimneys.org.

Contact: Deborah Bernstein, 845-279-2995, 109 or [email protected]

SOURCE Green Chimneys