At the October 20th Annual General Meeting, FWP Board President Kelli Fereday announced the establishment of a new annual recognition - the “Best Friend of Woodland Park” Award - and the Board were honored to recognize Mary Goldsby for her work in protecting natural areas and dedication to promoting birding in Woodland Park.
Many volunteers generously dedicate their time and labor to help protect, enhance and celebrate Woodland Park. Earlier this year, the FWP Board decided to create a special recognition for an individual or group to be given each year at our annual meeting, starting in 2022. The Best Friend of Woodland Park Award is given to show deep appreciation for contributions that greatly advance our mission:
“. . .Preserving the park's natural habitat along with its unique historical significance to the City of Houston, and to providing for the enjoyment and education of all who visit.”
Board Member and Treasurer Pat Rutledge presented the award to a wonderful Woodland Heights neighbor, Mary Goldsby. Mary makes this park, this community, and this world a better place with her selfless care for the park and consistent and deeply knowledgeable leadership of the monthly Audubon bird surveys in the park. Mary does this out of her love of birding and has taught others to appreciate the beauty and diversity we have in Woodland Park. This was even recognized by our guest speaker, Nathalie Bue, HPARD Park Naturalist, who noted that 168 different bird species have been found and recorded in Woodland Park! Mary is an unsung, long-time park steward, picking up trash in the park on a regular basis, especially in months where there is no organized cleanup.
In addition to being the first person to be added to a recognition plaque which will be hung in the Community Center, Mary was presented with an original art piece created by Nat Smith, longtime FWP supporter and husband of Founding President, Becky Houston. The piece consisted of 3 birds crafted from recycled aluminum cans - reflecting Mary’s passion and expertise and utilizing found materials from the park.
Mary Goldsby is truly one of the most dedicated caregivers of Woodland Park, and FWP and park user are so grateful. THANK YOU AND CONGRATULATIONS!