Visitors enjoy the view form the observation windows of the Wild Birds Unlimited Pathways to Nature Observatory at the 10th Friends of Blackwater Christmas Open House on December 2, 2006. Photographer Maggie Briggs

Project Leader Glenn Carowan shows visitors the spotting scopes in the Wild Birds Unlimited Pathways to Nature Observatory at the Friends of Blackwater 10th Christmas Open House on December 2, 2006. Photographer Maggie Briggs

Author Shirley Hunt and Photographer Chuck Prahl display their products to Shirley Bailey and Charlotte and Wolf Hehn at the Friends of Blackwater 10th Christmas Opeh House on December 2, 2006. Photographer Maggie Briggs

On December 2, 2006 the Friends of Blackwater (FOB) held their 10th Annual Christmas Open House at the visitor center at Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. Approximately 800 people visited the center throughout the day, participating in various fun activities and purchasing many new items at the store. Visitors enjoyed the new exhibits and second floor Wild Birds Unlimited Pathways to Nature Observatory while doing their Christmas shopping. In addition, children had the opportunity to make their own Christmas tree ornament or one for the bird's Christmas tree. A newly constructed elevator allowed some visitors access to the second floor for the first time.

Viewed as a pre-holiday event, this year's festivities included local and regional artisans, authors, and entertainers. Newly released books pertaining to the eastern shore of Maryland were available for purchase. Author Shirley Hunt was available to sign copies of her book "The Vanishing Landscape." Peggy Wroten, author of the children's book "The Parable of the Bird" signed copies of her book while also selling prints of her artwork. Other exhibitors and exhibits included: carver David Robbins, nature photographer Mary Konchar, artist Ann Holloway, artist George Wright, Glen Elm Studios' nature oriented pottery and hand-made jewelry, and Blackwater Gallery Studio furniture and other hand painted items. Vocalist Robin Smith performed for the public throughout the day. Ranger Tom Miller offered visitors van tours and eagle prowls at 11:30 am, 12:30 pm, and 2:30 pm.

Some children made wildlife oriented Christmas decorations to take home, and children and adults made edible Christmas decorations for birds, placing them on the wildlife Christmas tree set up in the Butterfly garden.

Refreshments were provided by Friends of Blackwater. Approximately 23 volunteers and 4 staff members assisted with this event. The event was a great opportunity for the public to visit the new bookstore, remodeled visitor center and office addition, new exhibits, new observatory and not yet furnished library.