Wirds of Denver: The Warbler

Founded in 1969, the Audubon Society of Greater Denver—an autonomous chapter of the National Audubon Society that is now some 3,000-members-strong—has accepted the mission of protecting and preserving our natural heritage through education, research and advocacy.

Unbeknownst to us—until a few weeks ago—their award-winning newsletter is also called The Warbler. We are pleased as a flock of one-eyed pirate pelicans in Bourbon Bay to be sharing this great city with another dazzlingly named paper bird.

Hoping to learn a thing or two about our winged pals and the cutthroat microcosm called publishing, we contacted Editor Dale Flowers. His Warbling duties are only part of the picture. Along with running the graphic design firm Flowers and Associates Inc., Flowers is also Trustee of the Littleton Riverfront Authority and President-Elect of the Rotary Club of Littleton.

So Dale, where does your interest in birding stem from?

I have had a long interest in birds since growing up in northwest Missouri.

How about your interest in publishing?

I have been involved in publishing also for many years. Both as a professional, in marketing major shopping centers for two-plus years, to my first personal publishing project which was a brochure for some houses I was building. I’ve also worked on a newsletter for a non-profit foundation I have been involved with since 1979. From there I decided that I liked the hands-on aspect of computer graphics and publishing and took courses at ACC for several years to polish my skills.

We publish The Denver Warbler as a labor of love and are wondering how you balance your executive duties and your work with Flowers & Associates Inc. with your role as editor of The Warbler?

Balance of duties is always a challenge. The paid customer has to come first–at least in most cases. I am semi-retired so my fees are very reasonable (I think). I am also involved in several volunteer situations. Plus I try to have time to travel a bit and spend time with my wife and family.

Why did the ASGD choose the warbler as the flagship bird for their newsletter?

Can’t tell you why ASGD choose The Warbler as the title of the newsletter. When I took over several years ago it was there and it has been for many, many years from what I’m told.

Thanks, Dale! Keep on Warbling …