Susie Wood posted on July 21, 2009 13:16
Cheryl Box’s name was drawn from the pool of 2009 Loon Census participants to win “The Common Loon” souvenir paddle, donated by John M. Miller III of Thousand Islands Picture Paddles. The paddle is handcrafted from cherry wood, creating a complementary background for the drifting loon captured using artist’s oil paint. The paddle drawing was an added incentive to entice more people along the St. Lawrence River and the inland lakes to participate in the loon census this year.
Last year there was a total of 31 census participants for the St. Lawrence River and the inland lakes. This year the total topped out at 50! If you did not have the chance to participate this year, please contact the Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT) next June @ (315)686-5345 to sign up. The Common Loon Census takes place on the third Saturday in July from 8-9 a.m.
John M. Miller III has been painting loons on his souvenir paddles since 1995. Each 22-inch souvenir paddle is handcrafted and painted, reflecting the region’s rich history. John likes to paint Rushton canoes and sailboats, lighthouses and local wildlife. The souvenir paddles combine his interest in the history of the Thousand Islands and the Adirondacks with his training as a portrait and landscape painter.
On behalf of the Wildlife Conservation Society, Adirondack Loon Conservation Program’s Common Loon Census, TILT would like to thank all who participated in the census and give a special thanks to John M. Miller, III for donating this year’s “The Common Loon” souvenir paddle.
Jake Tibbles, Director of Stewardship, congratulates Cheryl Box.