The Eagle Takes Off: Senator Murphy, County Executive Latimer Help Kick-Off 14th Annual Eaglefest

Croton-on-Hudson, NY - The Carriage House at Teatown was full of people attending the kick-off ceremony for the 14th Annual Hudson River EagleFest festival, but it was a red tail hawk named Blaze that stole the show.

Blaze, elected officials, sponsors and bird enthusiasts gathered at Teatown's 1,000-acre nature preserve and education center on January 26 to officially announce the details of this year's festival. Blaze and a plethora of his fine-feathered friends will be on hand when Teatown presents the EagleFest festival on Saturday, February 10 at Croton Croton Point Park, 1 Croton Point Avenue in Croton-on-Hudson from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

"There are over 100 bald eagles that call the Hudson Valley their home. It is an awe-inspiring experience to see them in their natural habitat," said Senator Murphy. "The bald eagle is our national symbol; it has come to represent the many veterans who have protected our way of life. That is why my office and Teatown are proud to sponsor free admission for all our veterans. This is another way for us to say thank you for your service."

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said, "EagleFest shows the diversity of the types of events that happen in Westchester County. Many families from the County's more rural areas come to the festival, but there is also a large population from our urban areas that come to see these majestic birds as well. EagleFest is a great opportunity for tourism and a boost to the economy."

"EagleFest is the largest gathering of bird and wildlife enthusiasts in the region," said Teatown Director Kevin Carter. "We will continue to offer our traditional programs, including live eagle shows, bird walks, tours and activities for children. This year we have added a new feature, a performance by renowned singer-songwriter Dar Williams."

An avid environmentalist, Williams is known for her idiosyncratic folk/pop songwriting, acerbic wit, and pristine soprano voice. She has over ten albums to her credit including recordings with Cry Cry Cry, a folk supergroup featuring fellow artists Richard Shindell and Lucy Kaplansky.

Among the many other distinguished guests on hand were at the kick-off press conference were Assemblywoman Sandy Galef, Ossining Town Supervisor Dana Levenberg, Teatown Board Members Howard Permut, Nancy Fletcher and Ed Papantonio, as well as sponsors of the event.

Senator Murphy and Teatown Lake Reservation are offering FREE admission to EagleFest for veterans. In addition, each veteran is allowed one guest free of charge. Pre-registration is required. Veterans can call Senator Murphy's District Office at 914-962-2624 to reserve a spot.

Guests are encouraged to dress warmly. In the event of snow, EagleFest will be rescheduled for the following day, Sunday, February 11, 2018.  For more information about EagleFest, including directions, parking, ticket prices and a schedule of events, visit the Teatown Lake Reservation website at www.teatown.org or contact them at 914-762-2912, ext. 110.