Why fly when you can walk

It is always nice to have a companion along to share a nice walk in one of our beautiful preserves. But on this warm sunny day I was alone shooting an assignment at Emerson Point Preserve.

As the narrow dirt trail meandered through the trees, a lone gull appeared before me. My new feathered friend walked only several feet in front of me for quite a while until stopping to let me pass.

After completing my assignment I returned by the same trail only to find my trusting trail guide waiting where I left him. So as before, his little feet began to churn and off we went in the other direction. After a while he let me pass.

I thanked him for his company and proceeded down the rest of the trail. I do not know why the gull did not take flight or if the gull really cared if I was there or not, but for me it was a bright moment in a long day.

After all, why fly when you can walk.

Grant Jefferies-

Reasons to be proud on the Fourth of July.

Everywhere you looked along the Bradenton Riverwalk this Fourth of July, people seemed to be enjoying the display of fireworks launching over the Manatee river. 

Thousands lined the nooks and crannies throughout the park: parents with kids in tow, friends gathered with friends, and even a fair share of house pets including dozens of tail-wagging dogs and at least two iguanas. 

And though it was certainly a fabulous display of explosions and light, it was also a breathtaking display of civic pride and participation. 

Here were people from all walks of life, gathered together in celebration.

The Riverwalk is just one example of civic enhancements happening on both sides of the river.  And if last Thursday was any indication, it's a good time to live in Manatee County.

~ Paul Videla