WATCH: Wolf Conservation Center Celebrates Atka's Birthday at Winston

More than 100 friends of the Wolf Conservation Center in South Salem came to Winston to help Atka the wolf celebrate his 13th birthday.

The reception began with a welcome from Congresswoman Nita Lowey, who also spoke about the importance of and her commitment to stripping anti-wolf riders from must-pass budget bills. Lowey then introduced Atka to the crowd, which gathered across Winston’s ground floor and mezzanine levels to see him.

WCC’s Executive Director Maggie Howell then led an interactive presentation on the history of wolves and their importance to the environment.

After the presentation, Executive Chef Michael Williams and Manager Paul Neagu of Winston presented Atka with a canine-take on a birthday cake—a hearty birthday steak!

For many in the audience, it their first time seeing a live wolf—particularly for children who attended the family-friend event. During the arts & craft portion of the reception, many of the kids drew cards and images of Atka to memorialize their experience.

PHOTO/Julie Ades