Your information source for exciting programs, events and activities throughout the state. Please feel free to forward this issue to a friend and Share The Wonder.

A new feature to the Alabama State Parks Web site now allows you to easily find events taking place in each park. Upcoming events include the Lake Martin Car Show at Wind Creek State Park on September 13 and the Chili Cook-off at Cheaha State Park on September 27. Visit http://www.alapark.com/Events for additional listings.

Registration is now open for the Fifth Annual Alabama Coastal Birdfest, October 16-19, 2008. This year's event features 19 guided birding tours to prime spots on the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail, two evening dinner/speaker events, and a free daylong Bird and Conservation Expo in Fairhope. Advance registration is required for the trips and evening events.

Dove hunters throughout the state have a special opportunity to introduce a young person to hunting through youth dove hunts sponsored by the Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Hunts are scheduled at 54 sites in 28 counties throughout the state. Young hunters must be less than 16 years old and accompanied by an adult at least 25 years old or their parent.

Entries are now being accepted for the 2009 Outdoor Alabama Photo Contest. Winning photos will be published in the February 2009 issue of Outdoor Alabama magazine. Photos may be entered in the following categories:

• Student Snapshots - Two divisions: Youth ages 6-12 and 13-18 may enter any of the following categories. All entry rules apply.
• State Parks - Recreational activities, park facilities, scenery or events held at any of Alabama's 22 State Parks operated by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
• Birds - Native song and game birds.
• Mammals - Native mammals (pets and livestock excluded).
• Reptiles and Amphibians - May include turtles, snakes, lizards, salamanders, etc.
• Other Native Wildlife - May include butterflies, insects, snails, etc.
• Scenic/Pictorial - Photos in which natural landmarks, scenery or inanimate objects are prominent; site location required for this category.
• Nature-Based Activities - People enjoying recreation such as boating, fishing, hiking, hunting or camping (sports such as baseball and football are excluded).
• Wild Flora - Wildflowers, foliage, fruiting bodies, other parts of plants or trees (cultivated flowers, shrubs, etc., are excluded)