Partners helping celebrate the event by hosting craft and information booths included the Isaac Walton League, Ducks Unlimited and Des Moines Woodcarvers. Dave Wharff was on hand to provide some spellbinding storytelling, and Joe Nobiling along with son Josh provided some down home fiddle and guitar entertainment, and even taught the assembled crowd how to dance the Virginia Rail. It was quite a festive atmosphere.

The event ran from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. although guests began arriving as early as 9 a.m. Weather was a somewhat limiting factor with regard to overall attendance as cold temperatures and blowing snow were the rule of the day. Many of the roads surrounding the Refuge were closed due to drifting snow overnight. Still, a cadre of volunteers did make it in and helped in the activities and preparation. Park Ranger Gary Shea was in charge of food and refreshments and provided attendees and staff with breakfast and lunch.

A highlight of the day included Park Ranger Scott Ford and Refuge Manager Nancy Gilbertson dedicating the centennial time capsule. After a brief talk with the group, Gilbertson invited several children in the crowd to finalize the moment by helping fill and seal the capsule. A beautiful, specially made case was crafted by volunteer Bob Buyert, which holds the capsule in place and displays it for all to see.

Other activities included Rangers Sara Hollerich and Anna MacDonald leading birdfeeder making activities for the kids. Additionally, two door prizes - a $50 gift certificate donated by Buca Di Beppo restaurant and a wood duck house constructed by Shea - were awarded at the end of the day.

In all, nearly 100 people visited the Prairie Learning Center during the course of the day. Though not the largest of our annual events in terms of customer visitation, Cabin Fever 2004 was a success in many ways and a good time was had by all.