Two Bay area environmental crusaders, the St. Petersburg Audubon Society and the Florida Native Plant Society, present their annual "Holiday Conservation Celebration." This fundraiser and green awareness event features exhibits by local environmental groups and government agencies, refreshments, conservation awards, a silent auction of nature-themed books, crafts, plants and holiday gift items, door prizes and a book signing and talk by James Valentine. The Florida-based Quest Foundation preservationist and environmental photographer appears in honor of the release of his book, Florida's Magnificent Wilderness, which pairs his own stunning photography of Florida’s natural places with words by Dr. D. Bruce Means. Valentine sells and signs copies of his books at the event, then presents a program titled, “A Carrier of the Light,” about his camera and how he uses it to create archival photographic art of Southern nature and culture. Proceeds from the event support both organizations and their respective Pinellas County conservation projects and programs. Wed., Dec. 10, 6:30-10 p.m., Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, free admission, 727-544-7341.
This article appears in Nov 26 – Dec 2, 2008.