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| Travel with Canadian artist David Kitler to the remote jungles of Panama's Darien Province to learn about the magnificent but endangered Harpy Eagle - the world's most powerful bird.
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| WNAG Flag Expedition Update - School Supplies for the Children of Llano Bonito |
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Through the support of the Worldwide Nature Artists Group (WNAG), nature and wildlife artist David N. Kitler and his wife spent a month in Panama doing research on the Harpy Eagle and its habitat, as part of the first WNAG Flag Expedition. During the trip they had the privilege to be the first ever "outsiders" to stay at the Emberá village of Llano Bonito.
The Emberá are one of seven native tribes that still inhabit Panama, and this particular village was made up of about 18 extended-family units. They live in the same manner as their ancestors did for hundreds of years, in thatched-roof open-sided huts, making a living from subsistence agriculture (plantains, corn, rice, etc.), as well as hunting and fishing. Many of the men make carvings from the cocobolo wood and the women weave beautiful baskets, which they send to neighbouring villages when they hear that groups of tourists will be visiting. They receive no government assistance and, because of their remote location, they also do not get the extra resources that regular visits by tourists might provide.
When asked about their needs, the only concern brought up related to the children, who they speak of as "their future". The Emberá understand the importance of a well-rounded education, and hope to improve their children's chances of future success by providing as many opportunities as possible for their mental and physical development.
They specifically mentioned the ongoing need for basic school supplies, an English language course and, if possible, equipment to help them start a baseball program (see letter above). Besides being Panama's favourite sport, baseball would be a great way to teach the children the value of team work.
We told them we would try to help.
We cannot save the world but, with your help, we can make a difference to this one community!
If you would like to help the children of Llano Bonito by making a donation of school supplies or baseball equipment, or if you can help with the cost of shipping the donations to Panama, please call us at (403) 254-5051 or email us at info@davidkitler.com.
To read more about the first WNAG Flag Expedition to Panama (journal, photos, etc.) visit www.natureartists.com/flagexpeditions/
For more information about the WNAG Flag Expedition Program, visit www.natureartists.com/flagprogram/
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