One of our dearest friends, Velda Minton, celebrated her 100th birthday recently. She is a resident of Henderson, Kentucky, and a long-time supporter of John James Audubon State Park. Velda and her family have many good memories associated with the park – she even met her husband at a shelter house near Wilderness Lake. If you’ve ever watched the “Park History” film shown in the Audubon Theater, you may remember Velda for her enthusiasm for Audubon State Park and the bluebell flowers that appear there every spring.
Read more about Velda and her association with the park in this 2013 Courier & Press news article by Judy Jenkins.
Robbie Williams, a member of the Friends of Audubon Board of Directors, delivered a birthday card to Velda from the board and park staff on Sunday, June 25, 2023. He recounted a story from this meeting to the board members in an email that same day:
Those who have met [Mrs. Minton] over the years encountered a quick wit and a sharp mind. However at age 100, she has foggy moments and may not immediately put things together. Upon entering [her residence], her son Tony saw me and took me right over to Velda. At first, she had no idea who I was or why I was there. She seemed to wonder what park we were talking about. Then something really cool happened.
Velda took a good look at the image of the Audubon Museum on the front of the card. She lit up and said: “Now THAT brings back memories.” She went on to reflect how she met her husband at a shelter house at Audubon. We talked for a few minutes but before retiring to her room, Velda said something in a strong voice with great clarity. She said, “I want everybody in Kentucky to know about Audubon State Park.”
Velda said it best. Thanks for sending the card.
Robbie Williams email to the Friends of Audubon Board of Directors, June 25, 2023
Thank you again, Velda, and your family for your unwavering and invaluable support for our beloved park!