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Dove
Tales
January 2024
Welcome to Dove Tales, a monthly e-blast to our most ardent PVNC supporters. Here you’ll find links to upcoming programs, volunteer and membership news, and updates on projects. We hope this provides the resources you need to stay informed and engaged!
Director's Note
Happy New Year! As we embark on the journey of 2024, we want to extend our warmest wishes to each and every one of you. We hope the holiday season brought you joy, relaxation, and quality time with loved ones.
At Peace Valley Nature Center, we are thrilled to welcome the new year with a sense of renewal and excitement for what lies ahead. As always, your continued support and passion for nature have been the driving force behind our success, and we are immensely grateful for your commitment to our shared mission.
Here are some exciting updates and opportunities we would like to share with you:
Upcoming Events: Get ready for a calendar full of engaging events that celebrate the wonders of nature. From guided nature walks to interactive workshops, we have a variety of activities planned to cater to all interests. Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for event announcements and updates.
Membership Benefits: In appreciation of your loyalty, we are enhancing our membership benefits this year. Look forward to exclusive member-only events, early access to program registrations, and special discounts on selected programs. Your support makes it possible for us to continue our conservation efforts and educational initiatives.
Volunteer Opportunities: If you have a passion for the environment and want to make a direct impact, consider joining our volunteer program. Whether it's helping with trail maintenance, participating in community outreach, or assisting with educational programs, there are numerous ways to get involved. Watch for volunteer opportunities in our newsletters and on our website.
Trailside Naturalist Program: We are excited to share that, thanks to a Visit Bucks County Tourism Grant, we will create and implement educational interpretive trail programs along the Hike & Bike path and trails adjacent to the nature center. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting project.
Trail & Facility Project Update: Upgrading our trails, gardens, and signage are priorities for us. In the coming year, we will complete a Master Trail Plan, a wayfinding and signage project, and install the much-anticipated rain garden once the roof replacement concludes.
As we enter this new year, let us continue to work together in fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world. Your involvement, whether through attendance at events, volunteering, or simply spreading the word about our mission, makes a significant impact. Please be sure to attend our Annual Membership Meeting on Saturday, April 13th, to learn more about our accomplishments in 2023 and our goals for 2024. More details to follow.
Thank you for being an integral part of the Peace Valley Nature Center family. Here's to a year filled with discovery, growth, and the beauty of nature!
Please extend a hearty welcome to the newest member of our team, Geri Sykes.
With a rich background in Systems Administration and Cost Accounting, Geri brings a wealth of knowledge to our organization. Throughout her career, she's demonstrated a passion for streamlining processes and creating tools to enhance efficiency.
Please join us in welcoming Geri to our organization!
MEMBER'S ONLY EVENT
Bodacious Birds of Prey
Saturday, March 23rd
1:30 - 2:30pm
Photo credit: Kevin Fox
Marcy Engleman, of the John James Audubon Center, will be on hand with her animal ambassadors to teach us about the fascinating world of raptors and owls. We’ll discover their unique adaptations, their role in the food web, and the environmental challenges they face. Space is limited and registration is required. All attendees must be current members.
Get outside and enjoy the wonders of nature with us this winter! Time spent in the woods is a great way to combat the winter blues and we have a variety of programs and events to choose from.
From Nature Discovery Days to night hikes, winter tree ID to fireside chats with a Naturalist, there's plenty of educational opportunities to choose from.
Grab a hot drink and sit down with a Naturalist for a fireside chat that’s all about the natural and cultural history of Peace Valley Nature Center. Program takes place inside the nature center. No registration fee. Donations for drinks and program kindly accepted.
Nature Story Hour
11am - Noon
$2/Members; $4/Non-Members
Bring your 3-5 year old to the nature center for a fun-filled hour of nature fun! We’ll learn about a specific animal or topic through stories, songs, thematic activities, art project, and information to help you continue the learning at home.
Fun-filled days with activities for every camper including hiking, aquatic activities, arts and crafts, and so much in between.
Camp registration opens in mid-January so this is a friendly reminder to make sure your membership is active (Family Level and above), and make sure you know your password and username; you will need all three of these things to register for summer camp.
Get your kiddos outside making memories in nature that will last a lifetime!
Save the Date
for PVNC's Annual Plant Sale
May 16th for members
May 17th - 19th for the general public
Sale open during regular shop hours.
Exploring the Wonders of Nature in Winter
As the temperatures drop and the world transforms into a glistening wonderland, winter brings with it a unique charm that captivates both the young and the old.
The vibrant red plumage of the Northern cardinal stands out against a snowy winter backdrop.
VOLUNTEER NOTES
Curious about what our volunteers have been up to? Check out our volunteer page here.
To join our team of talented volunteers, sign up for an upcoming work day here.
Thank you to our volunteers who celebrated milestones with PVNC in 2023.
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
Margaret Mead
Five Year Recognition:
Trailkeeper Tim Wismer
Board Member Marilou Hansen
Ten Year Recognition:
Board Member Andy Jarin
Twenty Year Recognition:
Teacher Naturalist Mike Kozempel
Trailkeeper Mark Popjoy
Five volunteers who donated the most time to PVNC in 2023:
Carol Weston-Young, Laurie Booth, Cynthia Cameron, Maureen Ward, and Gerri Reuter.
MEMBERSHIP NOTES
Membership and donations for the Friends of PVNC provide funds for our environmental education program mission. We are fortunate to have a community that provides financial and volunteer support and look forward to your continued participation!
Welcome New & Returning Members!
Joan Aichele
Nancy Bison
R. Jean Burch
Terry and Diane Clemons
Jennifer M. Cunning
Bonnie DeLong
Ed & Kathy Donovan
Devon Fierman
Nancy & Deborah Fortino & Hood
Robert M. Garbaccio
Kathleen Geist
C.H. Graney
David & Sandra Hersh
Sara Jozwik
Mike Kozempel
Michael & Donna Line
Beverly Lutes
Wendy Margolis
Jim & Terre Musselman
Mary Nowinski
Marilyn O'Connell
Beverley J. Rhinesmith Pape
Barbara C. Shaeffer
Sharon Sondag
Karen Ulmer
Elizabeth Wendelin
Paul Zadworniak
DONATIONS
We are so very grateful for the continued financial support from our members and friends. Your donations support our mission and allow us to keep nature accessible, inspire others to protect our habitats and the plants and animals that depend on them.
Click Hereto see a list of those who provided financial support last month.
The Bucks County Department of Parks and Recreation does not discriminate on the basis of disability in its programs, activities, and facilities. The official registration information of the Friends of Peace Valley Nature Center, Inc. may be obtained from the PA Department of State by calling (800) 732-0999.
Bucks County Commissioners: Robert J. Harvey, Jr., Chair; Diane M. Ellis-Marseglia, LCSW, Vice-chair & Gene DiGirolamo
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