Inspiration

My enchantment with the raven began on a chilly autumn day in 2008 when I had a rare city encounter with one of these intelligent creatures.

Walking near my home, I saw a huge black bird just a short distance in front of me. It had gathered laminated squares of paper when it spied me approaching. Leaves crunched noisily under my feet and I was sure the bird would become skittish and abandon its new found treasure. Instead, the raven stood its ground, stared me down, and protected its acquisition. I lamented not having a camera to capture the image of this gutsy, determined, heroic bird.

Regarded as tricksters, creators, and cultural heroes in mythologies throughout the world, the raven struck me as the perfect mascot.