The Faces of The Nature Foundation

Amanda Winegar

Marketing and Outreach Coordinator

I am a native of Waynesboro, VA. I currently live in Crimora with my son, Declan. I earned my masters degree in Science for Sports Medicine where I discovered I enjoy working with people without injuries. I have thoroughly enjoyed working in the hospitality industry for the past 9 years and I thrive on helping others. I am very excited to be part of TNFW family and look forward to getting to know and working with our amazing members. Declan and I enjoy our time together hiking, fishing, kayaking, and are huge Ravens fans.

Contact information: specialevents@tnfw.org

Josh Palumbo

Forest Manager

I grew up outside Annapolis Maryland fishing the tributaries of the Chesapeake Bay and wandering the woods behind my house. I attended Virginia Tech (go Hokies!) and received a degree in Forest Resource Management. After spending a few years in the wilds of the Adirondacks, I came to The Nature Foundation as the Forest Management Coordinator. When I am not busy shuttling one of my four children to various activities, I can be found canoeing a lovely Virginia river, traipsing through the woods, coaching high school wrestling or on a date with my lovely wife.

Contact information: forestmanage@tnfw.org

Kathie Driscoll

Education Director`

Hi there! I’m Kathie, the Education Director at The Nature Foundation at Wintergreen. I hail from Northern Virginia and have made my home in Central Virginia; beautiful Amherst specifically. I have provided environmental education in the Central Virginia area for over 20 years. I am passionate about conservation and instilling the appreciation of Virginia’s beautiful and unique resources.

I have a background in Biology and German; earning two Bachelor degrees from George Mason University in Fairfax, VA. I am a member of the North American Association for Environmental Education and the Central Blue Ridge Master Naturalist Chapter.

As the Education Director for TNFW, I provide environmental education and cultural history for the Nelson County community and to surrounding counties. I love Wintergreen for its near perfect beauty and the fellowship of the Wintergreen community. I thoroughly enjoy offering programs, activities and “road trips” for our members. I oversee TNFW’s volunteer program where I recruit volunteers to help develop and deliver environmental education and natural resource training. I especially appreciate each and every volunteer who has made this position the best I ever had.

I spend my free time in the woods hiking, birding and staying in tune with nature. I have two beautiful daughters, who share my value in caring for our natural world.

Contact information: youth@tnfw.org

Camille VanHout

Bookkeeper

Hi All! I grew up in Nelson County with four brothers enjoying all that a rural environment has to offer. All five of us settled here & raised our families as many changes took place all around the County.  After completing a Masters of Education in Counseling, I pursued a career in Human Resources while raising three children.  As I moved to part-time work and grandparenting, I found I enjoyed Bookkeeping and was fortunate to find a great fit with The Nature Foundation at Wintergreen. I can’t say I have much spare time as I tend to fill my hours visiting with friends & family & planning for the next adventure. So much to see & do and never enough hours in the day!

Linda Ehinger

Newsletter Editor and Website Assistant

I’ve visited friends at Wintergreen for years and upon retirement in 2015 I found the perfect little home on the mountain. My life has taken me from growing up in Los Angeles, college in Michigan, and finally to Maryland near DC. I didn’t know how this city girl would do in such a rural, quiet setting. It’s the best decision I’ve ever made. My two adult daughters, my son-in-law, and grandson love visiting me. They are huge fans of our beautiful mountain. In my spare time I pursue (way too many) crafty and artsy projects along with reading and socializing with the wonderful friends I’ve made here at Wintergreen.

 

 

Michelle Maggiore

Shoppe and Greenhouse Manager

I was born and raised (mostly) in Virginia and have gardened throughout this beautiful state in Zones 6, 7 and 8. 

In Norfolk, VA, I  grew up on a tributary leading to the Chesapeake Bay, and helped my mom grow food for my Nana’s restaurant in Virginia Beach.
While attending ODU and  then VCU, I raised three great nature-loving kids and currently live in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Afton, VA.
Aside from keeping the shoppe at TNFW stocked, and propagating native trees and shrubs, I also teach gardening at Hereford College (UVA).
I LOVE getting people hooked on gardening, kayaking, hiking, and writing.
Contact information: shoppe@tnfw.org