Ty's Saturday Afternoon
Ty was sitting on the floor, back against the wall, elbows on his bent knees. He had been sitting there for some time, in the empty corner of a back hallway of the conference center, just staring at her photo on his phone.
Without warning, his phone vibrated in his hand, breaking his trance, reminding him that his next class, Endangered Testudines, Treating Trauma and Treading the Tide, was starting in 10 minutes. Slowly bits and pieces of conversation, laughter and footsteps spilled into the surrounding halls, blending, echoing, then building into a low roar.
He groaned needlessly as he rose to his feet, then bent down to pick-up his new vet bag. Taking a good look at his prize, it's light tan hue, its subtle leather, high end label, and it's complete inappropriateness for an actual vet, he shook his head dismissively. "Ridiculous." He muttered.
Joining the stream of vets flooding the hallway, he headed toward his classroom.
"Ty! Hey Ty. Wait up!" His voice somehow floated above the roar.
Hearing his name, he turned around to see Bob rushing toward him. "Hey."
"I need to talk to you." He said, his voice filled with urgency.
"Sure. I have a couple minutes." Ty replied.
"Let's go in here." Bob motioned to an empty room. Inside he started, immediately. "There was another report of a Gobi taken for sport. This time it was a 6 month old cub."
"Are you serious?" Disbelief mixed with disgust registered on Ty's face.
"Take a look." Bob handed him his phone. A picture of two masked hunters with guns, one had the cub on his lap. No more than 40 pounds, the juvenile cub had shaggy, golden brown fur, it's brown eyes were open, and it's pink tongue hanging out of the side of its mouth.
Ty looked closely at the photo. "Damn it." He swore.
"Swipe to the next picture."
"Is that what I think it is?" Ty asked. Clearly shot from the same vicinity, the photo showed a pile of rotting animal innards buzzing with flies.
"It's cub guts. They must have taken the cub hide. It's probably on its way to becoming a teddy bear for some rich kid to sleep with."
"That just pisses me off. Why do people have to be so fucking selfish?" Ty's anger surfaced. "Do they have no concept that once the Gobi is extinct, there's no coming back?"
"I know man. It pisses me off too. There's only 40 bears left. You'd think that they'd know they're endangered."
"They don't care." Ty shook his head. "But man. What can be done? I mean you were just there. And, it's still happening." Ty cut to the chase.
"Right. VWB just called. They are looking to establish permanent enclave of rotating vets to protect them. They want me to assemble a start-up team and be on a plane next week."
"Wow. VWB doesn't waste time."
"Yeah. But, I need get a couple of wildlife vets and a surgeon on board. We'll be collaring the bears, monitoring them, vaccinating. Setting up feeding and watering stations. Working with the locals."
"Fortunately you are at a Vet Conference. It's the perfect place to recruit vets." Ty said with a touch of sarcasm.
"I don't want just anybody. I want you. You are perfect. You have the skills, experience, disposition. And. You aren't afraid of poachers."
"At least you got that last part right." Ty sighed heavily as he considered the offer. "Bob. I'd love to go...it's a really important mission. But, I can't. Things are the Rescue are... tough."
"This is way more important than that. Bet your boss would agree."
"Maybe." Ty's phone vibrated. "I gotta go. Got class. Good luck Bob."
"Think about it, Ty. Talk to Dr. Hickerson, she'll understand how critical this is."
Ty waved him off as he headed hall. The first to arrive, he took a seat in the front row of the room. Bob's words, but more importantly, the photo of the murdered cub swam in his head. The more he thought about it, the angrier he got.
To get his mind off of the plight of the Gobi, he pulled up the conference website on his phone. According to his bio posted there, their lecturer, Dr. Elliott Crew, was a highly awarded, well published, and world known reptile and amphibian veterinarian and herpetologist, who had spent nearly 50 years studying and treating sea turtles. A life long member of the Sea Turtle Conservancy, for the last decade, he worked at the Marine Mammal Rescue Centre at the Vancouver Aquarium. Clearly their lecturer was dedicated, exceptionally intelligent and knowledgeable about all things turtles.
As five other vets dribbled in, Ty watched the elderly lecturer meticulously place his instruments and more importantly, his turtles, some models, some deceased specimens, some live in glass aquariums, on the lab table in front of him.
From Ty's vantage point, Dr. Crew seemed to be a bit of an odd duck. He was dressed in a zoo uniform in desperate need of washing or burning, sported a skinny ponytail of yellowish-white hair that reached midway down his back, and had a scraggly white beard that hosted remnants of a past meal, maybe breakfast, maybe eggs.
As he presented his lecture, he interacted only with his turtles, ignoring the students in the room, including those that raised their hands or asked questions.
Despite that, Ty was soon immersed in the lecture, the plight of turtle specimens native to British Columbia, the Western Painted Freshwater, Pacific Leatherback Sea, and Pacific Black Sea turtles, all considered endangered. He showed slide after slide of endangered sea turtles, healthy, injured, dead, their sand nests mounded with eggs, and hatchlings desperately trying to escape to the ocean before being eaten alive by predators.
Using common box turtles, Dr. Crew demonstrated with immense dexterity and gentleness how to suture a leg, how to identify and treat bacterial infections, how to determine a pregnant female, and even how to care for a broken shell using super glue and duct tape.
By the end of the lecture, which finished five minutes early, Ty was the only attendee remaining in the room. Approaching the front, he introduced himself to the elderly veterinarian.
"Dr. Crew. Thank you for the fascinating lecture." Ty smiled, but did not expect a response. He placed his business card on the lab table, then turned to leave.
After glancing at his card, Dr. Crew asked, looking up from the turtles. "Do you work with Mirna Hickerson?"
"I do. She's the director of the Vancouver Animal Rescue." He asked. "Do you know Mirna?"
He nodded. "We rescued an olive ridley and two greens stranded on shore at Combers Beach in Tofino in the fall of 2011. All three were cold stunned. Probably got lost in the ocean current." He reminisced. "It was a warm autumn."
"Good outcome?"
He shrugged. "The ridley survived. He was released off the coast of San Diego about a year later."
Before Ty could respond, the elderly vet continued. "Couldn't restart the hearts of the greens." He said wistfully. "It was a shame."
"Its tough to lose a patient."
Dr. Crew pursed his lips, exhaled heavily through his nose, then nodded.
Ty added. "Had a similar issue two weeks ago with a bunch of poisoned raptors, mostly bald eagles. Two died soon after arriving at the rescue. It was tough.." Ty winced. "But. Thankfully, the others lived. We're releasing the last of them tonight."
"Where is the release?" He asked, surprising Ty.
"Fraser River Estuary. At 5:30. I'd be honored if you joined us."
"Will Mirna be there?" He asked hopefully.
"Not this time. But, we're having dinner after. Would you join us?"
"Probably not. But, tell her hello for me." The elderly vet handed Ty his card, stained and dogged eared. "Give her my card."
"I will. Nice meeting you, Dr. Crew." The two shook hands.
"Likewise, Dr. Borden."
In the hallway, Ty glanced at his watch. With only 15 minutes until his next session, he didn't have a lot of time to spare, so he ran to the exhibition hall. As it was nearly the last hour of the very last day of the conference, the hall was virtually empty of convention attendees and most vendors were packing up their wares. He quickly made a beeline to the Littmann booth.
Behind the Littmann counter, a young marketing rep was sitting on the floor, packing boxes.
Ty interrupted her work. "Excuse me. What is the best stethoscope Littmann makes?"
Her eyes lit up when she saw him. Coming to her feet, she answered. "Well, that depends on the size of the patient. For small birds, the 3M Littmann Infant.." She began her sales pitch.
"Large animals, horses, cows. This is for someone who will be going to veterinary school. So small animals too. I want the best one you have."
"3M Littmann Cardiology IVI Diagnostic Stethoscope has a dual frequency diaphragm with a pediatric side, both sides have superior acoustic quality. Littmann Stethoscopes have a flexible tubing resisting any kinks or bends. The tube flexes..." The long ago memorized script rolled off her tongue.
"Perfect. I'd like to buy one."
"Great. I'll give you my card. I'm Dana Turner. You are?" She held out her card and her hand to shake.
He took her card, then shook her hand. "Ty Borden, um, Dr. Ty Borden. Look Ms. Turner."
"Dana, please."
"Right Dana. I'm in a hurry. Do you have that model here?"
"Of course, but I can't..."
"Please. I would like to purchase one." He glanced at his watch.
"I've already packed away the mobile POS so I can't ring it up. I'm sorry. You have my card.."
"Look. I will give you my credit card information and my business card. Please." He handed her both from his wallet.
She looked at his business card, smiled. "You practice in Vancouver?"
"Yes."
"I'm local too." She smiled. "Tell you what. I can sell you the stethoscope today, if you allow me to schedule a sales call with your practice next week. We can review all of your current stethoscopes and determine which Littmanns will actually fulfill your needs."
"Deal. How about Monday? Celina Gomez is our business manager. You can schedule with her." He suggested, knowing he'd likely be in Calgary.
"Great." She found the box containing the model, then handed him the case with the stethoscope. "It's 295 dollars, normally. But, I can give you a 25% discount. So the total is 221.25."
Ty opened the case. Suddenly, his brain was flooded with her. The stethoscope earpieces lodged in his ears, the bell in her hand, the diaphragm against her chest, the sound of her heartbeat loud and clear. Her pink, soft lips upturn into an impish smile. Her pretty blue eyes looking up, locked on his.
"Everything okay?" Dana asked, jarring him back to the present.
"Um. Yes. Thank you." Transaction completed, Ty thanked her again, stowed the box in the new vet bag, shook her hand, then hurried off to his next class, Tagging and Tracking Wildlife and Domesticated Animals.
As soon as he took a seat in the third row, he texted her with his phone hidden under the table.
"Momma C. A Littmann sales rep, Dana Turner, is going to contact you about scheduling a stethoscope review. Please give her a 15 minute slot with Mirna on Monday, if possible. I owe her a favor."
"Mirna hates sales reps." Celina texted back.
"Right. Okay. Schedule her with me after I get back from Calgary."
"You hate sales rep. Must have been some favor."
"Tell you about it later. Everything set for tonight?"
"Yes. You, Chip, Kerry and Michael on the release. John and Bonnie will meet you there and help set-up. Mirna and I will meet Claire here at 6 after Paul gets here. We'll meet you all at Bruno's at 7."
"Joe?"
"A definite no."
"Too bad. How's Claire getting there?"
"IDK. I don't care either. If she can't figure that out, oh well..."
Her text made Ty chuckled aloud. "See you at 4:15."
Next, he texted Chip.
"Chip. Everything on schedule for the release?"
"Yep."
"Excellent. Kerry too?"
"Yep."
"Good. See you two at 4:15."
"Yep."
Lastly, he texted Michael. "Meet me at garage elevator. 4:00. We'll head straight to the rescue."
"Okay."
Texts out of the way, Ty tried to settled down, to void his mind of the swirl, focus on the lecture which was about to start. With some fanfare, Bob took the seat next him.
"Made decision?" Bob asked rather loudly, leaning into Ty's shoulder.
"Bob. I can't go. I have responsibilities at the Rescue." Ty whispered. "So my decision is No."
"Did you talk to Mirna?" He pushed.
Ty shook his head.
The lecturer cleared his throat, then stared at Bob and Ty making them both feel uncomfortable. As the session began, Bob leaned over to Ty.
"If anyone would understand it's Mirna. Just talk to her, please. This is important." Bob said in a hushed tone, but still audible.
The lecturer cleared his voice again, then spoke.
"You on the end of the third row." He said, his eyes boring into Bob.
Bob pointed to himself.
"Yes, you. Please leave my room at once. I do not tolerate disruptions."
Bob nodded, murmured to Ty. "I'll catch up with you later." He stood, then left the room.
The session was hosted by Seth McCarthy, the president of EcoTrace, a Canadian manufacturer of tracking equipment used by wildlife researchers, conservationists, rescuers, ranchers, sportsman and veterinarians alike. Aside from the initial history of tracking devices starting with tags and bands to the present, the session itself was a technical marketing presentation, exploring their products, VHF Radio Tracking, Satellite Tracking and Global Positioning System (GPS) Tracking and engineering behind them. Their newest instrument was solar powered ear tag for cattle.
With only 10 minutes remaining in the class, Ty was no longer paying attention. Instead, he was trying to focus on what he'd say at the press conference, surfing his phone for ideas, scratching down a few notes in his notebook.
"Dr. Borden. Could you please stand?" The lecturer asked.
Startled by the request, Ty pointed to himself, asked. "Me?"
"You are Dr. Borden, aren't you?"
Ty confirmed with a nod, then stood.
"Dr. Borden, you are conducting an eagle release this evening, correct?"
"Er. Well, 4 bald eagles and a red tail." He corrected him, then cleared his voice. "Um. Yes, the release is at Fraser River Estuary at 5:30 tonight. You are welcomed to attend. You all are. It's open to the public."
"Thank you Dr. Borden." Seth motioned to him to retake his seat. "EcoTrace will be there."
With a smug grin, Seth McCarthy held up a silver aluminum band between his forefinger and thumb on his right hand hand and a blue aluminum band on his left.
"Not only is EcoTrace the supplier of virtually all animal tracking devices used in western Canada, but we also manufacture bird bands. Every banded bird in Canada gets two bands, one for each leg."
He held up the silver aluminum band for emphasis, then continued. "A silver aluminum band is attached to the right leg and has a unique federal identifier embossed which assigned by the North American Bird Banding Program."
He held up the blue band in his left hand. "A colored band is attached to the left leg and is used to identify the organization tracking the bird. This blue band is used by the Vancouver Bird Rescue Society."
Ty's brow shot up in surprise.
"Dr. Borden knows this organization, isn't that right?" He looked directly at Ty.
"Um yes. We work closely with them. They actually rescued the raptors that we rehabbed and will release tonight." Ty explained, then expanded his response. "The birds were poisoned and critically ill after feeding on a carcass that had been euthanized and illegally dumped in a landfill."
"You released five eagles last week as well. Those birds were also banded. Isn't that right?"
"Yes." Ty answered simply.
"EcoTrace was at that release as well."
Ty refrained from responding.
"So more about banding. Banding does not negatively impact or hurt the bird, but it does enable our ability to track movements, monitor survival rates, and identify causes of mortality. As you may know, the North American Bird Banding Program relies on the public to report their observations or recoveries of bird bands and other bird markers to the Canada's Bird Banding Office."
He paused for effect. "EcoTrace has been following the progress of the eagles you released last week, Dr. Borden."
Ty's eyes widened.
A map of North America was displayed on the screen behind him. Using a pointer, he began to explain the map.
"The data on this map is collected by the Bird Banding Office. As you can see, Dr. Borden, four of your five eagles, released last week have stayed within the western border of Canada, dipping occasionally into the United States, flying ten, twenty, sometimes several hundred miles in one day." Ty moved to the edge of his seat, leaned in.
The lecturer pointed to one flight pattern highlighted in bright pink.
"This one eagle truly surprised us given the distance he traveled. Upon release in Vancouver, he flew directly eastward to Alberta and the Hudson/High River area. Since then, Freedom has been sighted twice on the Highwood River, once fishing for trout."
"Wow. That's amazing. Why do you think he headed inland to Alberta?" Ty asked.
"Good question, Dr. Borden. It may be his place of birth. Or the abundant supply of fresh fish. Or maybe his bad luck at the landfill in Vancouver that drove him east. We do not know...yet. But, make no mistake, we along with many others who study eagles will continue to monitor his movements and patterns."
"Good to know." Impressed, Ty gave him a nod.
At the end of class, Ty made his way to the front of the room.
"Hello Mr. McCarthy." Ty shook his hand.
"Seth please, Dr. Borden."
"Seth. Please call me Ty." Ty smiled. "Please be our guest at the release tonight and dinner afterward."
"I will be at the release. Thinking of bringing my family."
"Good. See you then."
As soon as Ty exited the room, he made a phone call as he walked quickly to the elevator.
"Mirna. Big change of plans for tonight." Ty said, starting the short conversation. Just before he hung up, he said. "Be sure to call Claire."
Suddenly Bob was in stride next to him, badgering him. "Ty. Wait."
"No Bob. I'm in a hurry." Ty glanced at him but kept walking.
"I'm begging you. You have to reconsider." Bob grabbed his arm, pulled him to a halt.
"Look Bob. I don't have time right now. I have to leave for the eagle release that I am leading." Ty explained, then looked at his watch.
"Bald eagles? Big deal. There are over 20,000 in Canada alone." Bob cited the stats. "Gobi are on the Critically Endangered Redbook. There's only 40 known living bears. 40. In the whole world, Ty." He jutted his chin at Ty to make his point. "You need to get your head in the game and prioritize your focus and your efforts."
"Bob. I said No." Ty retorted with firmness, his jaw set.
Bob snarled his lip.
"Hey. Why don't you ask Claire? Bet she'd be a great partner. She's already with VWB. She had lots of experience with various tribes and their cattle."
He rolled his eyes, dismissing Ty's suggestion. "Will Mirna be there at the release?"
"Yes."
"Then I'm going too then. If you won't talk to her, I will."
"Suit yourself." He said as he quickly walked away.
When Ty and Michael arrived at the rescue at 4:15, a palatable excitement and rush was in the air. Even Paul who was called in early seemed to be in a good mood. With James' truck already loaded with the necessities for the press conference itself, podium, microphones, signs, fact sheets, and such, Celina, James and Kerry departed first for the estuary to set-up. Soon after, Mirna headed out in her truck to pick up Joe. Under Chip's direction, Michael and Ty quickly caged the raptors then loaded the cages into Ty's truck. At 4:45, they were the last to leave the rescue.
By way of the new Port Mann bridge, the northern visitor entrance to the Fraser River Estuary already had a line of visitors waiting to enter when they arrived. Park rangers waved James and Ty through the employee gate. Like a well oiled machine, the press conference equipment was set-up quickly and efficiently with 20 minutes to spare.
As the the crowd grew in size, CTC, CBC and CityNews correspondents were standing by, doing audio and video checks. Reporters with press tags from the Vancouver Sun and The Columbian were on hand as well.
Seeing Doug Boyer, Blake Nichols, and Vera Hubiak just in front of the podium, Ty waved to them. He recognized a few others, semi-familiar faces from the vet conference. Off to the side, an animated Bob was talking to an engrossed Claire who was nodding in response. When Seth McCarthy appeared with his family, Ty greeted them then introduced them to Mirna, Bonnie and Celina.
As the scheduled time for the release approached, onlookers swelled to more than a couple hundred.
"Wow! Look at this crowd!" Clearly thrilled with the turnout, Celina complimented him. "Good job Ty!"
"Geez. It's way bigger than I anticipated." Ty suddenly appeared nervous, his face paled.
"You okay? Need some water?" Celina noticed his expression. "I have some in my bag."
"Nah. I'd probably just vomit it up any way." He said only half-kidding.
"Hmm. It's just nerves. Once you get up there and talk about what you know, you'll be fine." She reassured him.
"Yeah sure. Hope so." Ty didn't sound convinced.
"You're holding an eagle, right?" Claire ventured.
"Yeah. Johnny Cash."
"Just tell his story."
"You sound like Chip."
"Good advice is good advice, no matter where it comes from." She quipped.
At the appointed time, Ty approached the microphone, holding Johnny Cash close to his body with gloved hands and arms, his right hand holding his legs, talons crossed, his left hand loosely around his chest. Johnny sat erect, regal in Ty's arms, his snowy white head, his bright yellow beak, his pale yellow eyes stared intently. Likewise, Chip stood by his side, holding June Carter Cash. John Taylor and Bonnie Vogel stood to Ty's left. Mirna, Celina, Kerry and Michael stood to Chip's right. Joe was seated in a folding chair on the far end.
Standing at the podium, his notes scratched onto a lined piece of notebook paper before him, Ty looked out over the crowd. No one seemed to be paying attention. He momentarily froze, unsure how to proceed.
Chip leaned into the mic, whistled loud and sharp, grabbing everyone's attention. Then he muttered. "It's all yours."
Ty nodded.
"Ah. Hello Everyone!" Ty started hesitantly. "Thanks for coming out tonight. I'm Ty Borden. I'm a wildlife veterinarian and surgeon at the Vancouver Animal Rescue." He shifted behind the podium, cleared his throat, already dry.
"In case you are wondering...this handsome guy in my arms is Johnny Cash. He is a 3 year old male bald eagle. He is just over 30 tall, weighting 14 pounds, his wing span is just over 73 inches." He paused.
"And, my veterinarian assistant, Chip Boyer is holding June Carter Cash, a female 3 year old bald eagle. She is just a bit larger than Johnny. She is 31 1/2 inches tall, 14.5 pounds and and has a wing span of 76 inches. June is Johnny's life long mate. Today, these two incredibly intelligent, beautiful and, once again, healthy birds will be released back into the wild, along with three of their friends, Boss Hog, Elle and a red tailed hawk named Red. Their difficult journey to this moment started two weeks ago, when all five of these birds were poisoned after consuming an illegally dumped carcass laced with high levels of sedatives. Their road to recovery has been long, uncertain, and some times painful, requiring 24/7 intensive veterinary care."
He took a deep breath, then relaxed after Johnny Cash stretched slightly, his white head turned towards June, then repositioned himself in Ty's arms.
"To quote Jane Goodall, the world renown English primatologist and anthropologist, 'Every individual matters. Every individual has a role to play. Every individual makes a difference.' In that vein, I want to thank each and every one here today. Whether you know it or not, you have made today's raptor release possible, important and very special."
"So. Let me introduce to you, the people standing by my side tonight. First, on my left is John Taylor. John is the operations manager at the Vancouver Municipal Landfill. Two weeks ago, his employees discovered seven sick and dying eagles on an older, unused section of the landfill and reported the situation to John. John, acting quickly, reached out for help. Those of you in the audience who work for the landfill, please step forward." About a dozen men and women did so.
"You were the catalyst to that heroic rescue and today's release. You acted to save these incredibly majestic birds without hesitation and with purposeful resolve. Without you, we would not be here today. We thank you."
An enthusiastic round of applause rose up.
"Next, let me introduce Bonnie Vogle. Bonnie is the president of the Vancouver Bird Rescue Society. Immediately after receiving John's call for help, she and the society's members, volunteers and supporters dispatched to the landfill, trudged through acres of waste and captured nine eagles that day. After scouring the landfill for the several days that followed, the society found and captured three more birds. All told, a dozen birds were captured. 11 bald eagles and one red tailed hawk."
"Those of you in the audience who are members, volunteers or provide much needed funds, resources, equipment or supplies to the Vancouver Bird Rescue Society, please step forward." More than fifty men and women, including Seth, Selma and Keisha McCarthy, stepped forward.
"You too were critical to this amazing rescue and today's release. You acted to save these incredibly majestic birds without hesitation and with purposeful resolve. You continue to educate, conserve, protect, band and monitor these incredible birds and birds like them. Without you, we would not be here today. For that, we thank you."
More applause rose up.
"Next, let me introduce Dr. Mirna Hickerson, director of the Vancouver Animal Rescue, and my boss." He smiled at her. "The rescue took Bonnie's call for assistance and accepted all 12 of these critically injured birds. Two arrived so critically ill that they succumbed to death within an hour of arrival. Over the last two weeks, the rescue staff worked tirelessly, around the clock, to rehabilitate the remaining ten birds back to health. A week ago, five eagles, including one named Freedom, were successfully released into the wild from this same location."
Ty then introduced his co-workers, including Paul who wasn't there, and talked about their contributions with pride.
"Those of you in the audience who volunteer and support the Vancouver Animal Rescue with much needed resources such time, money, expertise, supplies, equipment, marketing and other efforts, please step forward." Nearly twenty men and women stepped forward including Kerry and Chip's parents.
"You too were critical to the rescue and today's release. You acted to save these incredibly majestic birds without hesitation and with purposeful resolve. You continue to support the rescue, treatment, rehab and release efforts of these incredible birds and birds like them. Without you, we would not be here today. For that, we thank you."
Again. Applause.
"Lastly, those of you in the audience who support animals, both domestic and wild. Veterinarians, vet techs, animal lovers and owners, researchers, educators, reporters, conservationists, biologists, admirers, birders, volunteers, artists, writers. Every one of you is here because you see the importance of a world with healthy animals. Please step forward."
Every person in the audience took one step forward, including Dr. Crew, in clean pants and shirt, who waved to Mirna.
"You too were the critical to the rescue and today's release. You came today to see and support these incredibly majestic birds without hesitation and with purposeful resolve. To make this event news worthy, and education. Without you, we would not be here today. For that, we thank you."
"It bears repeating Jane Goodall's quote. 'Every individual matters. Every individual has by a role to play. Every individual makes a difference.'"
"That includes every individual here today. Your presence today, your purposeful resolve to contribute, care for, work with, to cherish and respect animals, their health, their vitality, and their existence in our community and around the planet. Because without you, we would not be here today. And, so we thank you."
More clapping.
"Before we release the birds, I'd like to mention that each raptor released last week and today is outfitted with a silver aluminum band and special blue band manufactured by EcoTrace, here in Canada, and tagged by the Vancouver Bird Rescue Society. As each takes to flight, see if you can catch a glimpse of the bands on their legs." He repositioned Johnny to show the bands on his legs. "Just like Johnny's here."
"Mr. Seth McCarthy, the president of EcoTrace is here. Mr. McCarthy would you like to say a few words about banding."
Somewhat surprised, Seth hesitated, then approached the podium. "Thank you Dr. Borden and everyone for your fine work in rescuing, rehabbing, banding and now releasing these regal birds. The EcoTrace bands placed on these birds enables the monitoring of their progress through public sightings and reporting through the North American Bird Banding Program. I encourage everyone, if you see a banded bird, take a picture of the bird, and to report your sighting the the Banding Program! Every time."
A healthy applause rose.
"I am thrilled to say that the five eagles that Dr. Borden released into the wild last week, are healthy and doing well. The eagle named Freedom has actually flown over 600 miles and has taken residence on the Highwood River in Alberta, while the other four have stayed on the west cost of B.C. We know this because ordinary folks reported their sightings of banded birds. So report your sightings."
"In conclusion, EcoTrace thanks and supports both Vancouver Bird Rescue Society and Vancouver Animal Rescue in their efforts to protect, rescue, rehabilitate and release these majestic birds, like Johnny Cash. Thank you everyone." He stepped away from the podium.
"Put your money where you mouth is. Donate!" Someone yelled from the crowd.
Seth put his hand on the back of his neck then nodded, then stepped back to the podium. "You know, that's a great idea. EvoTrace will donate 15000 dollars to each organization as a gesture of our thanks."
Ty and Mirna were stunned. As the audience clapped, hooped and hollered, Seth waved then turned away from the podium again. He nodded to Ty, before shaking Bonnie's and Mirna's hands, then rejoined his family in the audience.
"Wow! I am so incredibly humbled and thankful as I know both Bonnie and Mirna are as well. Thank you Seth McCarthy and EcoTrace for your generous donations." Ty grinned. "So, are you ready to release some beautiful raptors back into their natural habitat?"
The crowd cheered. "Yes!"
"Well, okay then. John, would you do the honors of releasing Red?"
He nodded. Stepping up, John opened the door without much fanfare.
"Be free." He said, then added much louder to everyone's amusement and laughter. "And. Don't come back to the landfill. You hear?"
Without any hesitation or much show, the brown hawk with a cinnamon red tail stepped out of the cage and into the open. With one leap and several flaps of his long wings, Red took off flying, exposing his pale breast feathers, soaring toward the west. The crowd responded with cheers.
"Wow. That was pretty spectacular. It does my heart good to watch him take off." Ty smiled. "Bonnie, are you ready to release Boss Hog?"
"Yes!" She replied enthusiastically. Grinning, she stepped up, opened the cage door.
"Boss Hog! Take to the sky." Bonnie yelled at the top of her lungs, joyfully.
Without pause, the almost 30 inch tall male eagle stepped out of the cage, looked around, surveying his location. Raising his massive wings skyward, Boss Hog took a few hops before leaping into the air. He flapped wings several times to gain lift and speed then tucked his yellow feet. Gliding low away, the audience was awe struck at first, with only Ohs and Ahs. With a sequence of two wingbeats then a long glide, the eagle continued to gain height and speed flying away from a clapping and hooting crowd.
"Wow! That was just absolutely beautiful." Ty remarked. "Mirna, are you ready to release Elle?" Ty asked.
"Absolutely!" She smiled, stepped up, opened the cage door.
"Have a good life my friend!" She bid her farewell.
True to her nature, the 35 inch tall, elegant Elle strutted out of the cage, into the sun's spotlight and struck a pose. She turned toward the crowd, spreading her massive wings, struck another pose, seemingly wanting, waiting for the cameras to take photos and videos. Folding her wings demurely, she turned back toward the long swath of meadowland grasses that led to the estuaries marshes in the distance. In one graceful move, she simultaneously unfolded her wings and leapt upward, taking to the air with several wingbeats then a long glide. The audience again was taken as she followed Boss Hog,'s path, soaring into the blue sky.
"Elle was something else, truly a regal creature of grace and beauty. Wasn't that an amazing release?" Ty asked.
The excited audience answered back. "Yes!"
"Just Wow! As I mentioned, Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash are a mated pair. Of the two, Johnny had ingested far more poison, rendering him critically ill, fragile, close to death. Throughout their recovery, June took care of Johnny, worrying about him, watching over him, preening him. For this reason, we will release these two together. As they were meant to be. Together."
A collective Ah rise from the audience.
Ty and Chip stepped away from the podium, spacing themselves several feet part. Ty looked at Chip.
"Ready?"
"Ready."
Together the vet and his assistant extended their arms, releasing the grip on the eagles' chest and legs.
"Take off Johnny and June." Ty commanded.
"Take care of each other. "Chip added.
June and Johnny glanced at each other, raised their wings then leaped into the air, flapping their wings in unison taking to flight. Their white tails and whites heads flashed against their dark bodies. The clapping audience was elated as the two did not fly off into the distance, but rather climbed higher and higher, soaring to heights of two hundred or more feet above. Then the two began a game of chase, one following the other, then vice versa, climbing, diving, climbing again, then changing direction.
Suddenly, the chase turned into a battle, their talons locking in mid-flight. Entwined, the two cartwheeled, head over talon over wing over tail, falling as one toward the earth with great speed.
The audience hushed and groaned, their eyes locked on to the out of control, spiraling mass of feathers.
"Everyone. Johnny and June are exhibiting a normal courtship ritual, called cartwheeling. They grasp talons in midair, tumbling down in dramatic fashion. They will break apart when they're nearing the ground. This ritual builds and rebuilds their bond as mates." Ty spoke hurriedly into the microphone, trying to reassure them and himself, hoping against hope, that the two eagles would part before hitting the ground.
As the mass of feathers plummeted toward the ground, someone screamed. Ty tensed.
No more than twenty feet from the ground, the two eagles broke apart, recovered their balance then flew off, in sweeping wingbeats, in the same direction toward the marshes.
A swelling applause rose, continued to heightened as the crowd roared with excitement, relieved laughter. The joy was contagious.
And, Ty was not immune, his excitement bubbled over. "Wow! Did you see that? That was incredible! I had always heard about eagle mating rituals, but until today...I had not witnessed it...wow!" Laughing, he gushed into the microphone. "Oh my!"
"Well. There you have it. Johnny and June have rebonded as life long mates, as it was meant to be. What a spectacular and fitting ending to this heroic rescue story. And we all witnessed it."
Ty tried to regain his composure.
"Thank you everyone for attending and for your generous support. You have made this wonderful ending possible and very special. Please drive home safety."
Almost immediately, several from the media and the audience pushed forward, surrounding the podium. Questions, congratulations, hand shakes, fist bumps and hugs were flying everywhere in dizzying motion. Even Mirna, Bonnie, John, Joe, Celina and even Chip were pulled into hubbub, fielding questions, talking with potential donors and volunteers.
After some time, the media and audience thinned, then finally dispersed. Still on an adrenaline high, Ty turned off the microphone, turned away. Celina stood there, tears in her eyes, her arms outstretched to him.
"I am so very proud of you, Dr. Borden." She said as he walked into her warm embrace, like a child to his mother. "That was perfect."
He kissed her cheek. "Thank you Momma C."
As they parted, Mirna was next to give him a bear hug. "Great job Ty."
"Thanks." His voice cracked. "I gonna get some water from my truck, my throat is dry."
"No doubt, you were practically screaming during Johnny and June's high flying acrobatics."
"That was... just crazy." His voice cracked again.
"Crazy good. Now. Go!" Mirna told him. As he walked away, he saw Bob approach her so he quickened his pace.
His mind was reeling, still abuzz with snippets of the press conference and Gobi bears clouding his senses. Jogging up from behind, Claire caught up with him at his truck, without his awareness. She grabbed hold of his arm, swung him around.
"Whoa!" He exclaimed, somewhat off balanced.
"Oh my god, Ty!" She was laughing, giddy, talking fast. "That was so amazing."
Regaining his footing, he grinned back, matching her enthusiasm. "I know, right! It was way better than I ever imagined."
"And. So many people too. Did you see all that press?"
"I know. Thanks for spreading the word."
"No problem!" She gushed on. "Oh my god! Elle was my fav. What a strut that girl had! But. What about Johnny and June? That was just wild. That midair hook up."
"That was wild. The cartwheeling was nothing short of spectacular." He chuckled, his face flushed. "I was really afraid that they were going to hit ground locked together."
"Me too. I was holding my breath the whole time."
"Yeah. Me too." He shook his head, reliving the moment.
"Great speech, by the way. Jane Goodall? Genius." She put her hands on his upper arms, shaking him with her excitement, increasing their connection. "And that 15000 dollar donation. Geez. Can you believe that?"
"Funny thing. He was the lecturer of my last session today." He mentioned.
"Who the guy from EcoTrace?! No kidding. Small World."
"Yea. Seth McCarthy. Nice guy and family. I was shocked when he made that donation." His green eyes were dancing with pure happiness, sheer joy.
"You look happy." She said.
"I am." He smiled.
"I am very glad." She moved closer. Her hands slipped around his neck, pulling him in, her lips teased his with a single warm kiss that grew with want. Taken off guard, he did not push away. Quite the contrary, he responded to her lips, their demands.
It took a moment or two before he pulled away, breaking the connection, ending the contact. He exhaled heavily, touched his lips.
"Claire..." His tone suddenly serious, quiet. His eyes caught hers. "No."
"No?" She was slightly confused. "No what?"
"We can't."
"Sure we can. We're just celebrating." She rolled her eyes, trying to be unaffected, cool. "No one cares."
"No. I don't want to...restart anything."
"Really? I could not have guessed!" She said sarcastically, then made a face. "You've been avoiding me all week." She sighed. "Admit it."
He sighed. "I'm sorry Claire. I just.." He didn't finish his sentence, but said instead. "I need some water. You?"
"Sure. Why not?" She took the consolation.
Sitting side by side on his truck's open tailgate, Ty emptied his water bottle in three chugs while Claire sipped on hers. Each stared straight ahead, not seeing anything in particular, lost in mostly thought.
Bottle emptied, Ty crushed the plastic in his hands, then threw its mangled form into the truck bed with a bit of racket.
He looked at Claire's profile. "Hey Claire. Can you be straight up with me?"
"Maybe. What's up?" She returned his gaze, pushing a long curly strand out of way.
"What happened in Nova Scotia?" He paused, searching for the right words, but missing the mark. "I mean between us. Um. You know."
She chuckled. "Now you want to go down memory lane, huh? Thought you didn't want to restart anything?"
"Claire. Humor me." He pleaded.
"Seriously?" She looked into his eyes.
He nodded. "Yeah. I need to know what happened between us. Did we, you know?" He still couldn't say it.
"Did we what?" She tilted her head closer to him then asked. "Ah. Make love? Have sex? Hook up? Screw? Fornicate? Is that what you are asking?" She was purposely blunt just to embarrass him.
It worked. His eyes dropped away from hers. "Yes."
"I see." Toying with him, she asked. "Do you remember anything? Anything at all?"
"I am not sure if I really remember or it's just what I have been told. I still have dreams about it. You are the only one who can tell me the truth."
"Bad dreams?" She asked tenderly.
He nodded.
"I'm sorry. What do you remember?" She asked again.
"We were both nude." He said candidly.
Her right brow raised slightly, questioned. "Oh. You remember that?"
He nodded, sighed. "I seem to remember being really sweaty. The sheets were all rumpled. You calling to me to come back to bed. The next thing I remember is waking up in the hospital. You and Mirna staring at me."
"Oh."
"What did we do exactly?" Before she could answer, he added. "I mean, I think I was too sick to do anything, right? Plus, I had a serious girlfriend at the time."
She laughed at his last statement. "Well, you certainly didn't act like it."
"What does that mean? What did I do?" His eyes registered worry, blinked several times.
"Ty. Its not what you did. It's what you didn't do."
He looked at her quizzically.
"If you had a serious girlfriend, why didn't you tell me? Or more importantly, why didn't you tell Mirna and Celina? And, why were you in Nova Scotia, in the first place? Why weren't you with her? Have ever asked yourself that?"
He sighed heavily. "Yes, many times."
"I think at the time you wanted the adventure, the wild excitement, the freedom. You didn't want to be tied down by a girlfriend, serious or not. Plain and simple. We were alike in that regard. You and me." Then she added. "Though I not sure that you still are."
He was silent, his face was pale, sort of anguished.
"So. You want the truth?" She patted his knee. "Okay. Here goes. We spent hours in the freezing cold looking for tracks but didn't find any. If they were ever there, they were covered with snow. Then we spent the evening traipsing all over town looking for the guy who reported the cougar. No one could or would help us. It seemed Theo Nasser didn't exist. Even his address was a fake. There we were, playing animal detectives, trying to figure out this mystery. It was just the two of us trying to save the elusive eastern cougar." She grinned. "We were a team."
"We called ourselves the EcoWarriors." She put her hands on her hips, pulled her shoulders back like WonderWoman. She laughed.
He returned her smile.
"It was real late when we got back. And, because of some stupid screw-up, the room we got had only one bed. When the power went out, you went out to investigate, fiddle with the fuse box, or something. I don't know. It was dark. I was exhausted so I went to bed, sans clothes, as usual. When you got back, you just laid down on the bed, on top of the covers, with your boots, coat, hat, gloves, everything, still on, then fell asleep immediately. You were kinda cute."
"I bet." He rolled his eyes.
"Anyhow, some time later, you got hot, or something, so you shed your clothes. Not like a striptease or anything. More like in fits and starts. Next I knew, Mirna woke me up banging on the door. She found you outside in the snow, naked, delirious, talking on your phone. She brought you inside, you vomited, then she called the ambulance. She gave me the evil eye, assumed that we, you know, hooked up. I didn't tell her otherwise. What was the point? And, you never asked."
"So we didn't hook up?"
She shook her head No. "You were a gentleman. Well, except wearing your boots to bed." She tried to smile.
"So. Nothing happened between us?" He wanted confirmation so he pushed.
"But. It wasn't nothing...not to me anyhow. I felt like we had a connection, Ty. Right from the beginning." She looked at him with glistening eyes. "But still, I missed all the signs. I felt guilty that I didn't recognize how sick you were. Still do. Then seeing you in hospital, just laying there, tubes and monitors everywhere. Every day you kept getting worse. I began to doubt my abilities to care for any living thing. I barely knew you, but I stayed there. I had to."
He reached over and grabbed her hand. "Claire. We've talked about that. You have no reason to feel guilty. I messed up. I didn't get vaccinated like I was supposed to. And. I didn't even realize that I had the flu, it came on so quickly. I am just grateful that you didn't get sick, that you stayed, kept me company through it all. You were a true friend. And, I will never forget that."
"Ha. True friend." She laughed cynically, shook her head as though she didn't believe him.
"You were." He tried to reassure her.
She sighed. "By the time you got to rehab, I was just so happy that you were getting better. Then, that stupid text. I felt so bad for you that she, you know, did that. I just wanted to make you feel better. To help you forget about it. How many hours did we just play cards, watch tv or just talk? Seemed like we talked for hours on end, about everything under the sun. Being a vet, saving the planet, caring for wildlife, traveling. Remember that?"
He just nodded. "Yes. I remember all of that."
"You convinced me to finish school, to join VWB, go on missions, work with wild animals, to travel. I thought we were going to be a team, that we had made plans to be together after vet school."
He touched her hand.
"But, then you went to Vancouver. Stayed with Celina. After that, those last two missions were, I don't know, more like work. You were so serious, kinda different. I mean we had fun, no doubt, but.."
"My mom." He said simply.
"I know." She sighed, frowned. "Sorry."
"Yeah. Me too."
"So, I get why when you came back, you were sad, distant. I tried to get through to you. Even though I strutted around with nothing on, you didn't seem to notice. Did you?"
He looked at her.
"Maybe?" She raised an eyebrow.
"Maybe."
"Good to know...I suppose it didn't really matter in the end. You took the job with Mirna instead of the VWB one. That was it."
"Claire, you have been a good friend to me when I really needed a friend. We had fun. And to think what we accomplished on our missions. We helped each other through some tough stuff in our lives and we both came out better for it."
"So. Just a friend? Is that all?" She frowned, then grasped once more. "How about that kiss? Just now. That must mean something. Right?"
"Claire. I think we just caught up in the excitement. That's all." He replied.
She sighed heavily. "That's all? Huh?"
He nodded.
"Figured." After some time, she confessed. "I saw Amy's photo at the conference this morning."
"Oh. You did?" He said, somewhat surprised.
"Yeah. Michael told me it was her." She frowned.
He nodded. "Oh."
"I wanted to spit. I mean, she broke your heart. I wasn't going to let her win, so to speak."
"So that's why you said that you were my girlfriend on stage?" He asked.
"Yeah. In case she was watching." She grimaced. "Stupid. I know."
"No. You were trying to protect me."
"Then I heard what you said about her." She leaned in, touched his chest. "She's still something to you, huh?"
"Yeah." He said quietly. "I really miss her."
She nodded.
"Claire. Looking back, I was the one who messed up. Not her. Like you said, I went to Nova Scotia instead of being with her."
"Then do something about it Ty." She advised him. "Soulmates don't come around very often."
He gave her a quizzical look.
"Michael's word, not mine."
"Right. The thing is, Amy has moved on to someone else. So I lost my chance."
"Sorry Ty. I really am." She said it sincerely.
"Thanks Claire."
She straightened up, steeled her composure, changed the subject. "Bob's asked me to go to Mongolia with him. Save Gobi bears."
"Wow! Sounds like a great opportunity for you. For you both." He encouraged her. "You should go."
"Thought you'd say that." She pursed her lips, the corners of her mouth downturned. "I plan to tell him yes. He's headed out tonight. Guess I'll go with him."
"Just imagine the good work you'll do. Both of you. I hear that there's only 40 left in the world. You're an EcoWarrior again."
"Yes, I am." He grinned as she struck her WonderWoman pose again.
Just then Michael and Chip walked up, each carrying a crate. "Hey Ty. Claire." Michael greeted them.
"Hey." Ty answered. "Let me help." He took the cage from Michael, put it in the truck bed.
"Don't you answer your phone these days." Chip groused, as he put his cage in the bed. "Guess you've been busy."
"Shoot. I turned it off for the press conference." Ty tried to explain.
"Right." He grinned at Ty. "Who's your friend?"
"Chip, this is Claire Russell. Claire, Chip Boyer." Ty introduced them.
"Oh Chip. Nice to meet you. Sorry you didn't win. I voted for you." She told him. "We all did."
"Voted for me?" Chip was confused.
"Never mind...I'll tell you later." He said with no intention of doing so. "Let's get these cages tied down. And, then get the other three." Ty said.
"Yeah. Let's hurry." Chip said bluntly. "I'm starving. The others have already left."
"Claire. Can you and Bob join us for dinner?" Ty asked.
"Thanks but I don't think so. Tell Mirna and Celina bye for me. And, thanks." She reached in her pants pocket pulled out a key. "Here's your key. Thanks for letting me stay there."
"No problem." He said taking it, slipping it into his pocket.
"Just a thought, you may want to consider some color other than shit brown to decorate your apartment." She smirked, then kissed his cheek. "See you Ty. Bye Michael. Bye Chip."
The three men watched Claire walk away, her long curly hair swinging across her back, in time with the sway of her slim hips.
"Bet she's a handful." Chip said seriously.
It was nearly 8:30 when the close knit group finally arrived at Bruno's, a family style Italian restaurant downtown. Crowded around a small, round table, festooned with a red plaid vinyl tablecloth and lit candles stuffed into old wicker-laced Chianti bottles, Mirna sat directly across from Ty. Celina, James, Joe, Michael, Kerry and Chip rounded out the boisterous group. Much to Paul's displeasure, Celina called him on speaker phone and had him join the celebration, at least, for the toast.
Mirna stood, raising her glass. "To each and every one of you. You never cease to amaze me with your dedication, your talent, your heart and your work ethic. Together, you orchestrated the most incredible raptor recovery, intense rehabilitation and spectacular release I have ever witnessed. You are best colleagues in the world. Congratulations! Cheers everyone."
"Cheers! Congratulations!" The cheer rose up amongst the sound of laugher, clinking glasses and excited voices.
When the noise subsided somewhat, Paul announced with some annoyance in his voice. "Yeah. Good work everyone. I'm out." He hung up. Most everyone laughed.
Then Ty stood up.
"My turn." He said, beaming at Chip. "I'd like to toast my hardworking, dedicated, indispensable, smart and supremely stubborn vet assistant who insists on naming every single animal." Ty rolled his eyes dramatically.
"Hey. You started that...Little Mister!" Chip teased back.
"You saying it's my fault?" Ty countered.
"Well yeah."
"To Chip. Cheers!" Cheers and laughing ensued. Still standing, Ty continued.
"But, even more importantly, if that's possible, congratulations to Chip on his decision to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. I know it's a long road and a heavy haul, but Chip, I want you to know that I believe in you. We all do. You'll be a great vet some day." He handed him a box. "Best wishes Chip."
"What's this? Arm length gloves?" Chip jabbed.
"How'd you guess?" Ty chuckled.
Chip slowly opened the box, he eyes widened. "It's a stethoscope. Oh wow. So cool." He pulled it out, put the ear pieces in his ears, proceeded to try to listen to Kerry's chest. As two teenagers melted into their own private world, Ty's brain flooded with snippets of the past.
"Ty? Hey Ty...?" Chip said, finally getting his attention. "Ty, thank you. This is great. Really." As he put the stethoscope back in the box, he noticed a white envelope. "Oh there's a card too." He read the note, then unfolded a check. Blinking back tears, he was momentarily speechless.
Ty explained. "Its for school."
Chip stood, then barreled into Ty with a bear hug, which was returned with gusto.
"Seriously? One thousand dollars? Thank you." He showed every one the check. "Thank you Ty, really."
"Sure thing." Ty smiled.
"Is this thing gonna bounce?" Chip asked.
"I sure hope not."
"Um." Chip deadpanned. "Would you mind...if instead of school...I get a tattoo?"
"Seriously? A tattoo?" Celina asked. "Don't be ridiculous Chip!"
"Yeah. One of Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash cartwheeling." He teased.
Everyone laughed.
Much to Chip's delight, the celebration finally morphed into dinner with pastas of every kind, meatballs the size of tennis balls and a rich sauce of good conversation and laughter.
An hour or so later, Ty announced. "We got to get going and check on Wind and Cloud, then pack tonight. If it's a go, we're heading out early."
The two said their goodbyes, then headed out the door, while the others lingered a bit more, enjoying each other's company.
Hello readers.
Another long one. Hope you enjoyed this chapter. If you did, drop a line, let me know. Hopefully some of your questions about Nova Scotia were answered. Maybe some new ones cropped up.
SBR
PS. Jim. One SW down, two SW and three LTF to go before Labor Day...it's a tall order. ;)
PPS. LifeIn3D. Just so you know, your last review got me out of a deep hole with this chapter. You reminded me of things I completely forgot. So thanks.