Seth-Patterson FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 8, 2012

(Mission, TX) The North American Butterfly Association (NABA) is pleased to announce award-winning photojournalist, Seth Patterson, will be our featured speaker Friday, October 26, 2012, at the Border Buttermilk Reception and Dinner al Fresco. Part of the 17th Annual Texas Butterfly Festival's schedule of events, this special program is open to everyone interested in preserving the rich biodiversity of the Rio Grande Valley.

Patterson is the photographer responsible for El Valle, a beautiful book showcasing the remarkable creatures and features found from Falcon Dam to the Gulf of Mexico. This remarkable production won a Gold Medal in 2011 at the Independent Book Publisher's Publisher of the Year Awards—and once you see it, you will understand why!

"My photography is truly a passion," states Patterson, "And I am honored to share my work at the Texas Butterfly Festival. From a young age I was reared to love and respect all animals, and I've forever had a love affair with the 'smaller majority', the things most people pass by without ever noticing. My goal is always to bring to light their beauty, and my hope is that my passion may inspire others to appreciate and protect the wonders of our planet."

Friday, October 26, Patterson will present, South Texas' Natural Treasures, through Seth's Eyes, a visual journey of exploration. With the book's brilliant images as his backdrop, he will tell the stories behind the pictures; stories of amazing people, places and wildlife in our own backyards.

"Everyone is invited to dine with us in the gardens at the National Butterfly Center," explains Marianna Trevino Wright, executive director. "This casual event under a canopy of stars should enthrall naturalists and engage enthusiasts, regardless of your level of expertise. Seth is a gifted speaker who makes his adventures on the 'wild' side relatable and relevant, by serving his Texas tales with a hefty dose of humor and timeliness. Although his images speak for themselves, its a real treat to be a part of his audience; so we hope everyone will take advantage of this opportunity, and join us for this celebration of El Valle, designed to make conscientious conservationists out of us all!"

You may reserve your seat(s) for dinner at www.texasbutterflyfestival.com. Members of the National Butterfly Center, may contact Marianna at 956.583.5400, ext. 751, to reserve your seat(s). The cost for this event is $40 per person, with a discount for NBC members. El Valle will be available for purchase and personalization by Seth Patterson at this special event.

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The National Butterfly Center is committed to 'Growing Connections' between people, plants, and the winged wonders that pollinate and propagate all that grows around us. We do this through educational and environmental initiatives appropriate for all ages. The Center is open to the public, for visitors, members and field trips, seven days/week.

To learn more about the National Butterfly Center, and how you can join us, please visit www.nationalbutterflycenter.org, or call 956.583.5400. Your annual membership or charitable gift impacts the beauty of our community and helps preserve the biologically diverse, natural treasures of deep South Texas