Native American Culture at Weedon Islan- 8/9/08

Explore the Wonders of Native American Culture at Fifth Annual Heartbreath Flute Extravaganza at Weedon Island Preserve   Few musical sounds inspire peace and tranquility like the notes of a flute, and Native American music represents sweet, haunting sounds that soothe the heart and soul. To showcase the best of Native American's sound and culture, the Fifth Annual Heartbreath Flute Extravaganza is set for Saturday, Aug. 9, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The extraordinary event takes place at Weedon Island Preserve in St. Petersburg , a destination rich with Native American history.   The free, daylong event is perfect for families that want to celebrate the art and music of the Native American culture. Native American flute recording artists will be among the 10 featured performers at the Extravaganza. Other ancient musical instruments adding to the musical delight will be drums and rattles.   Along with musical performances, Flute Builder Master Craftsmen will present a flute-building workshop to explain how the instruments are created. Also a silent auction of Native American-themed items will be held. Visitors are also welcome to shop for merchandise. Weedon Island Preserve is located at 1800 Weedon Drive N.E.   While attending the Extravaganza, visitors are welcome to stop by the permanent exhibit, Connecting People and Place, which is an art-inspired, hands-on educational approach to the area's history, ecology and people. To learn more about Weedon Island Preserve, call (727) 453-6500.   Managed by the Pinellas County Department of Environmental Management's Environmental Lands Division, Weedon Island Preserve protects more than 3,700 acres of natural ecosystems. The Preserve is open to the public seven days a week and offers many outdoor activities. In the Preserve, the Cultural and Natural History Center welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Center also holds a wide range of programs and events for people of all ages.   For more information on Pinellas County 's Environmental Lands Division, call (727) 453-6900 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/environment.  For more information about Pinellas County and its events, visit www.pinellascounty.org.   ###