In brief: Turnbull plans bird workshop

Thu., Sept. 6, 2007

The Spokesman-Review

If you have ever wanted to hold a tiny songbird in your hand, the chance to do so is coming up later this month at Turnbull Wildlife Refuge.

On Sept. 22, the refuge staff is teaming up with the Spokane Parks and Recreation Department for a conservation program to capture, band and then release songbirds back into the wild.

Participants will help staff members set up “mist nets” to capture birds and then see firsthand how they are safely removed and examined for age, sex, weight and lengths. Members of the public who join the class will be allowed to hold the birds and place bands on them.

During the field demonstration, biologists will talk about the ecology of each species and explain its importance. The banding program is helping biologists understand changes in local and worldwide populations and what can be done to enhance their chances for survival.

The event, which runs from 8 a.m. to noon, has a registration fee of $17 for adults and $10 for children 16 and under. Also, a $3 daily vehicle fee is charged at the refuge entrance.

To register, contact the parks department at 625-6200 or visit its Web site at www.spokaneparks.org. Participants should bring their own food and water if they are staying throughout the day.

– Mike Prager

Spokane

Warmth keeps sprays open

Water spray areas at six Spokane parks will remain open through the end of September as long as the weather stays mild, parks officials said.

The facilities are located at Shadle, Harmon, Mission, Grant, Nevada and Grandview parks. City officials want to install more of the spray features as replacements for the former wading pools at many parks.

In addition, Witter outdoor pool continues to have lap swimming Mondays through Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Sept. 19 at a cost of $2 per session.

– Mike Prager

Downtown

Fox street party planned

The Fox Theater organization, in conjunction with the Spokane Symphony, is putting on a free street party Friday as part of the monthly art walk on the first Friday of the month from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The event will be on First Avenue between Monroe and Madison streets and will include artist demonstrations, an instrument “petting zoo,” live music and face painting. Civilized Animal and Hockey are scheduled to perform.

The renovated Fox Theater is expected to reopen in November.

Mike Prager

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