The free event will be held at the RPL Nordlof Center, 118 N. Main St., Rockford. The lobby opens at 4:00 p.m. with information tables, book sales and signing, and children’s bird themed activities on the second floor until 5:30 p.m. Patterson will begin his program at 5:30 p.m. in the Sullivan Theatre.
This program is family friendly and groups with children are invited to attend. All ages and levels of birders, as well as the casual bird observer will enjoy Patterson’s engaging presentation style. Registration is requested at https://www.naturalland.org/event/dexter-patterson-meet-greet-book-signing-and-program/ or by calling the NLI office at 815/964-6666.
A VIP Ticket is available for purchase for $50 and includes a private reception at 3:00 p.m. on the stage to meet the author, seating in a special section during the program, and a copy of Patterson’s book. Registration is required for this option at the link provided or by calling the office.
Patterson, co-founder of the BIPOC Birding Club of Wisconsin, co-host of The Bird Joy Podcast, and author of Birds of the Great Lakes, urges “A Call to Bird Joy” in his field guide. In his book he said, “The sights and sounds of birds in their natural habitats awaken our senses and remind us of the beauty and diversity of life around us.”
In a story at BoldJourney.com Patterson said his book is a “celebration of Bird Joy,” about the healing power of nature and invites people to be curious and care about nature. He said, “My mission is rooted in joy, accessibility, and representation. I want people—especially those who have never felt invited into outdoor spaces—to know that you belong here. Nature is for everyone! I hope that my work can serve as both a mirror and open up what I like to call ‘windows to wonder’ — those sparks that often ignite the lost childhood curiosity and joy, helping people reflect on their lived experiences and offering new perspectives.”
Birds of the Great Lakes features more than 150 birds found in the Great Lakes region with a photo of each one, information about how they look and sound, as well as what kind of habitat to find them in, and encourages readers to protect birds and their habitat.
This program is supported by the following individuals, businesses and organizations: Gemini Solar provided a $1,000 grant; Program: Patrick Yarbrough, Sinnissippi Audubon Society, and Rockford Park District; Partner: Forest Preserves of Winnebago County; Supporter: Northwest Illinois Bird & Nature Alliance; Coffee and Hot Cocoa Sponsor: Wired Café, Cookies Sponsor: Zammuto’s Drive-In & Carry-Out; and Venue and Event Promotional Support provided by Rockford Public Library.
Children’s activities will be provided by Nature at the Confluence, Sinnissippi Audubon Society and Natural Land Institute.
You can find Dexter Patterson on Facebook as Dexter Patterson and Instagram as @wiscobirder. His short videos are popular and well known for his mantra, “You Ready? Let’s Go!” before heading out on a search for birds.
About the Natural Land Institute: The Natural Land Institute, an accredited land trust, is a 501(c)3, non-for-profit land conservation organization based in Rockford, Illinois and has protected 19,000 acres of natural land in Illinois since 1958. Their current service area covers twelve counties in northern Illinois. NLI’s mission is to create an enduring legacy of natural land in northern Illinois for people, plants and animals. For more information and to donate: www.NaturalLand.org.
