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Hunting and fishing regulation changes to be discussed at upcoming meetings
Biologists with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation are encouraging sportsmen to attend upcoming public meetings to learn more about a number of proposed hunting and fishing regulation changes, including proposals to extend the turkey season in southeast Oklahoma and increase bowfishing opportunities on Wildlife Department lakes.
All of the 17 proposed changes will be detailed at the meetings, where biologists will answer questions and listen to feedback from those in attendance. Proposals for hunting regulation changes will be discussed at separate meetings than those to discuss fishing regulations changes.
Many of the proposals are aimed at providing additional opportunities for the sportsmen of the state. Also included in the list of proposals are a wide variety of changes designed to clarify the language of the law, better manage Oklahoma wildlife resources and respond to sportsmen's desires.
Other notable proposals include making it unlawful to fillet fish while in the field, allowing the use of the .17 HMR caliber in the fall turkey season and increasing the cost of turkey licenses, the bobcat-raccoon-gray fox license, the Lake Texoma fishing license and the non-resident land access permit for Honobia and Three Rivers wildlife management areas.
Each of the following public meetings begin at 7:00 p.m.
Fishing Regulation Changes
January 12, 2004 - Monday
January 13, 2004 - Tuesday
Hunting Regulation Changes
January 12, 2004 - Monday
January 13, 2004 - Tuesday
Following is a summary of the items to be discussed at the public meetings. A complete list and further explanations can be seen at wildlifedepartment.com.
Proposed wildlife regulation changes for 2004-2005 include:
Changing the language for Wildlife Management Area rules to be inclusive of all migratory game bird seasons and clarify when and what WMA's are open for migratory bird seasons and revising language for HIP permits changing the validity dates from September 1 through March 31 to July 1 through June 30.
Allowing the new .17 HMR caliber rimfire as a legal means of taking wild turkey in the fall season.
Extending southeast region spring turkey season dates from April 6 - April 28 to same as statewide (April 6-May 6).
Increasing turkey tags from $7.75 to $10.00.
Correcting rule language to open striped skunk season year round.
Increasing the special Bobcat-Raccoon-Gray Fox license from $9.00 to $10.00 for residents and add rule language to charge $51.00 for non-residents.
Increasing non-resident fee for Land Access Permit (Honobia Creek WMA & Three Rivers WMA) from $25.00 to $50.00 as provided in State Statute (29-4-136).
Adjusting wildlife management area seasons in response to the 16-day deer gun season, adjust southeast spring turkey season from April 6 through April 28 to same as statewide season dates (April 6 - May 6), and provide more hunter opportunity on several areas.
Establishing rules and guidelines for permitting of Special Canada Goose Permit Agents operating under the Department's Federal permit to assist with control of resident geese.
Making feral hog season on Honobia Creek WMA, Three Rivers WMA and Broken Bow WMA consistent with the deer gun season for these areas.
Proposed fisheries regulation changes for 2004-2005 include:
Allowing the Department to list "Close to Home" fishing waters in the ODWC Fishing Guide without having to change Title 800 each time.
Reducing the length limit on sauger to 16 inches in the Illinois River below Tenkiller Dam and in the Arkansas River from Keystone Dam downstream to the Oklahoma state line.
Making it unlawful to possess filleted fish or fish that have been altered so that species and length cannot be determined while fishing. It would also make it illegal to transport filleted fish to shore or take-out point by land or water conveyance.
Making bowfishing lawful for the taking of nongame fish only on all ODWC lakes.
Aligning Title 800 with Oklahoma City ordinances and allow enforcement of the rules by ODWC personnel. Cast netting, trawl netting and dip netting bait for personal use in Lakes Hefner, Overholser (and tailwaters), Draper and "Close to Home" fishing waters is currently closed by Oklahoma City municipal ordinance.
Changing the existing fee for the Lake Texoma annual fishing license from $6.75 (with a $1 vendor fee) to $11.00 (with a $1 vendor fee).
Describing the process by which persons will apply for a permit to release fish into waters of the state.
Participants needed for 16th annual Winter Bird Survey
If you feed and watch your feathered neighbors, the Wildlife Department would like your help in the 16th annual Winter Bird Survey. Simply choose two days between Thursday, Jan. 8, and Sunday, Jan. 11, to count and record birds visiting the feeders in your yard.
Your observations help biologists track the population trends of winter birds at feeders.
The 2004 Winter Bird Survey period is Jan. 8 - Jan. 11. Use the survey form (available at www.wildlifedepartment.com or in the November/December issue of "Outdoor Oklahoma" magazine) and select two consecutive days during that period to watch your feeders. Don't forget to return your results to the Wildlife Department.
Eagle watch events available across the state
Each winter, as northern lakes freeze over, thousands of bald eagles migrate to warmer, southern waters. Visited by 750-1,500 eagles annually, Oklahoma is one of the top 10 states in the nation for winter eagle viewing. Watch bald eagles soar at an Eagle Viewing Event near you.
Events are hosted by state parks, lake management offices and local Audubon Societies, said Jenny Thom, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation information specialist. Working with event locations, Thom compiled a list of the statewide Eagle Viewing Events.
"With over 50 viewing events this winter, there are many opportunities for anyone who wants to see a bald eagle in the wild," Thom said.
Most events are free or have a minimal charge and occur on weekends during January. Many begin with informative bald eagle programs led by naturalists and biologists. A few events will present a live, captive-reared bald eagle. At all events, people will be on hand to assist visitors with viewing wild eagles.
"Not only is the bald eagle an American symbol, it's also an endangered species success story," Thom said.
When adopted as the nation's symbol in 1782, eagles inhabited every large river and major concentration of lakes in North America. They nested in 45 of the lower 48 United States, but by the 1950s had reduced to fewer than 500 nesting pairs.
Due to nationwide concern and action, eagle numbers have increased seven-fold since the early 70s. Americans are making sure the bald eagle isn't only seen on coins; it's also seen soaring through the sky.
"These events are your opportunity to see a bald eagle this winter," Thom said. "Don't miss your chance to see the nation's proudest living symbol, or to share it with your children."
View event descriptions, locations, dates and times by logging onto www.wildlifedepartment.com or call (405) 521-4616 for a free brochure of event dates, times and places.
Editors Note:
The following is a wording clarification from last week's story "Time to renew hunting and fishing licenses:"
The trapping license shall expire on Jan. 31 of each year. Therefore, a 2004 - 2005 trapping license must be purchased to trap beaver, bobcat, nutria, striped skunk and coyote after Jan. 31, 2004. A bobcat-raccoon-gray fox license is required for all who take these species by any means (trapping, firearms or archery) unless exempt. Such license is valid for raccoon and gray fox Dec. 1, 2003 - Jan. 31, 2004. For bobcat, the license is valid Dec. 1, 2003 - Feb. 28, 2004. Lifetime hunting or combination license holders or senior citizen hunting or senior citizen combination license holders must purchase a trapping license to trap.
Youth waterfowl hunts prove successful
It was hard to tell who was having the best time.
The young participants in the Wildlife Department's youth waterfowl hunts as well as the Department employees guiding the youngsters were both grinning from ear to ear at the completion of a recent hunt.
"I think everybody looks forward to these youth waterfowl hunts," said Mike O'Meilia, migratory game bird biologist for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. "They offer a great chance for young people to get exposed to the sport of waterfowl hunting."
A total of 14 hunts were offered, each designed to provide youth who do not have an adult mentor who waterfowl hunts an opportunity to learn and enjoy the traditions of the sport. The hunts take place at some of the state's first-rate waterfowling destinations such as Ft. Cobb Lake and Hackberry Flat Wildlife Management Area.
A Wildlife Department employee accompanies each youth (applicants must be 12 to 15 years of age) and their adult guardian on a guided waterfowl hunt at one of several premier hunting areas. The Wildlife Department provides successful applicants the necessary nontoxic shotgun shells and a 20-gauge single shot shotgun if the youth does not have his or her own shotgun.
Those interested in applying for next year's hunts can look for more information next summer on the Department's Web site at wildlifedepartment.com.
"Outdoor Oklahoma" magazine is a must-read for sportsmen
These cold, winter days are perfect for building a fire, making a cup of cocoa and curling up with a good book - or magazine. For the outdoor enthusiast the January/February 2004 issue of "Outdoor Oklahoma" magazine is the perfect winter day companion.
The current issue is hot off the press and includes a special section outlining odds for drawing hunts through the Department's controlled hunts program.
"The controlled hunts information can help hunters better prioritize the hunts they apply for," said Nels Rodefeld, editor of "Outdoor Oklahoma" magazine. "For those who want to get every advantage they can in controlled hunts, this is a must-read article."
The magazine features information on the new digital mapping system that is now available to sportsmen. The article describes the origin of this technological advance as well as ways for hunters and fishermen to get full use out of the interactive maps.
Those interested in striking up a friendly dispute with their hunting and fishing partners will want to be sure to read the article entitle "Best of Oklahoma." The article examines some of the more often debated topics such as what is the best deer rifle caliber or largemouth bass lure. Readers are even invited to give their own opinions on these topics.
"The Big, the Bad and the Ugly" takes a look at some of Oklahoma's largest sportfish. The article is packed with angling tips and interesting facts. For instance, did you know that alligator gar can breathe by gulping surface air on hot summer days or that paddlefish sometimes jump out of the water for no apparent reason.
To obtain the most recent issue mail $4 (check, cash, money orders or cashiers check accepted) to "Outdoor Oklahoma" magazine, P.O. Box 53465, Oklahoma City, OK 73152. However, one-year subscriptions are just $10 (two years for $18 or three years for $25) and are available by calling 1-800-777-0019. Additionally, you can subscribe over the Internet by logging on to the Department's Web site at www.wildlifedepartment.com
"Outdoor Oklahoma" television show kicks off new season
If you can't get be outside hunting, fishing and enjoying the outdoors, then the next best thing is to watch it on television - at least according to Rich Fuller, production supervisor for the "Outdoor Oklahoma" television show.
"We're really excited about the upcoming season. Our camera crews have been all over the state and we think we have shows that will interest just about everybody," Fuller said.
In addition to the feature segments, viewers can also keep up on all the latest news and information regarding the state's wildlife and the activities of the Wildlife Department.
"Within each show, we will be giving out a variety of information such as a statewide fishing report, an outdoor calendar of events, biologists' hunting and fishing tips and lots more. This information will really help people plan their outings this spring and summer," Fuller said.
If you are already getting ready for spring fishing you will want to tune into shows featuring a Texoma Lake striper fishing trip with Wayman Tisdale, a Broken Bow Lake bass fishing bonanza and information on walleye management and fishing techniques.
There's plenty for hunters as well. Upcoming shows will feature the importance of landowner conservationists and a look back at the indelible memories of past hunting seasons. And it wouldn't be spring without turkey hunting. One show features a father and son turkey hunting trip in southwest Oklahoma. The exciting episode features many birds coming in to the call and a double was taken by the duo.
There's more than just hunting and fishing. "Outdoor Oklahoma" will also feature such items as how to landscape your yard to attract wildlife, Oklahoma snake species and an inside look at what really goes in the Department's Fisheries Division. A float trip down the Black Fork Creek in southeast Oklahoma will also be featured in an upcoming episode. The piece highlights a father and daughter and the importance of sharing time in the outdoors with loved ones. The two pass through some beautiful scenery and catch a few fish along the way.
"Outdoor Oklahoma" is the official television show of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and covers such topics as fishing, hunting; and fisheries, game and non-game wildlife management. The 30-minute program can be seen on OETA-The Oklahoma Network Sundays at 8:00 a.m. and Saturdays at 6:00 p.m. Outdoor Oklahoma can also be seen on the following television stations: KSBI Network (greater OKC metro area), Wednesdays at 11 p.m. and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; KTEN (south-central and southeastern Oklahoma) Sundays at 5 a.m.; KWEM (Stillwater), Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m., Fridays at 7:00 p.m. and Sundays at 8:00 p.m.
For a complete listing of show times and channels in your viewing area, consult the Department's Web site at www.wildlifedepartment.com or your local TV guide.
"Outdoor Oklahoma" magazine seeks "Faces in the Outdoors"
If you love outdoor photography, "Outdoor Oklahoma's" annual Readers' Photography Showcase offers a great chance to display your color slides, prints or digital photos in a magazine that consistently receives national recognition for its photographic excellence. Photographers, either professional or amateur, will have until March 26 to submit their best shots.
"Photographs can be of anything found in Oklahoma's outdoors from scenics to wildlife, however, for this year's showcase we've added a 'Faces in the Outdoors' emphasis. We are looking for outstanding images of people hunting, fishing and enjoying other outdoor activities," said Nels Rodefeld, "Outdoor Oklahoma" editor. "Not only is our state blessed with rich and diverse natural resources, we're also home to many fascinating sportsmen and women. So send us your best shot of people in the outdoors whether it be the fresh smile of a young fisherman or the aged face of a veteran hunter."
According to Rodefeld, 35mm slides, color prints, and digital images will be accepted. Rodefeld added that original 35mm slides still offer the best color reproduction quality, but that "Outdoor Oklahoma" will accept high-quality images captured on digital cameras or in print photos.
"There's no doubt the Readers' Photography Showcase is one of the most popular features in the magazine as evidenced by the hundreds of great images we receive each year," he said.
The photographer's name, address and phone number need to be printed on each slide using a fine point pen or rubber stamp. Slides should not be encased in glass.
Each participant may submit up to five images and all entries will be returned undamaged. Each submission should include a brief description of the photo including location taken, camera used, names of subjects and what it took to get just the right shot.
Photographers can mail their submission to Paul Moore, Photo Editor, "Outdoor Oklahoma," Oklahoma Dept. of Wildlife Conservation, P.O. Box 53465, Oklahoma City, OK 73152.
Individuals who wish to obtain their own copy of the July/August Readers Photo issue can subscribe to "Outdoor Oklahoma," on the Universal License form wherever hunting and fishing licenses are sold; or via credit card by calling 1-800-777-0019. Subscriptions are just $10 for one year, $18 for two years, or $25 for three years.
11-year-old phenom from Tulsa wins gold medal at the World Skeet Championship
Four months after picking up a shotgun for the first time, 11-year-old Jon Michael McGrath from Tulsa broke 122 clays out of 125 to capture a gold medal in the World Skeet Championship.
It all began in June of 2003 when McGrath went to the Boy Scout Camp Tom Hale near Talihina, Oklahoma. One day of the weeklong summer camp was a free day, where scouts could participate in their choice of activities, and Michael wanted to shoot a shotgun.
After learning about gun safety, acquiring safety glasses and hearing protection he went to the range. Shooting instructor told McGrath's father that the youngster had some natural skills and that they should consider taking him to a skeet range.
His parents contacted Tulsa Gun Club and spoke with Harold "Skeeter" Radke, who is the club manager and President of the Oklahoma Skeet Shooters Association. The new shooter couldn't wait to shoot his first round of skeet and a week later he did. His score was 20 out of 25.
"This is unheard of, for an 11-year-old kid who has only been shooting for four months to go down to the World Skeet Championship and win," said Harry Proffitt, a skeet shooting enthusiast from Kansas City. "This is a game of all ages. Some people compete their whole life and try to earn a medal at the World Skeet Championship, and Jon Michael went down for his first time and came home with a sack full of medals. Jon Michael is very respectful of people and is a joy to be around."
The World Skeet Championship was held last fall in San Antonio, Texas. In the 12-gauge event McGrath posted an unbelievable 122 out of 125 and was awarded the World Championship Gold Medal for the E Class 12 Gauge Competition. He also tied for first in both the 20 gauge and 28 gauge events, but missed targets in the shoot offs. At the end of the World Skeet Championship, McGrath was awarded bronze medals in High Overall (513 out of 550) and High All Around (603 out of 650).
The Tulsa phenom also won state championships in Oklahoma and Kansas prior to competing in the World Skeet Shooting Championship. He earned a chance at the Oklahoma state championship in 12 gauge by shooting his first straight of 25 out of 25 with a final score of 90 out of 100, to tie John McCharen, 33, from Nichols Hills. McGrath won the title outright in a shoot-off by breaking a double in the first round when McCharen broke only one of the two targets.
In the Kansas State Skeet Shooters Association Championship, held in September, even heavy rains couldn't deter McGrath. The young shooter didn't waver and won the D-Class event in both 20 gauge and .410 bore. At that point his personal best was 91 out of 100 in .410 bore.
It could be overwhelming for anyone going so far in so little time, but McGrath is taking it all in stride.
"It is fun to meet people from all over the world and compete with them. This sport is something you can enjoy for a lifetime," McGrath said. "I would encourage anyone who has an interest in the shooting sports to pursue it. Skeet shooting is a blast."
For more information about shooting sports and to find a skeet range near you, log onto wheretoshoot.org.
Hunters reminded to tag bobcats
Oklahoma's winter weather has been beneficial to state hunters and trappers, allowing them to spend more time pursuing furbearers, especially bobcats.
The 2003-04 Oklahoma bobcat season closes Feb. 28, and the Wildlife Department wants to remind anyone who has harvested a bobcat that they must have it tagged by March 12, 2004. All bobcats must be tagged within 10 working days of the close of the season by an authorized Wildlife Department employee or at a designated bobcat tagging station. A list of designated private bobcat tagging stations is available on the Department's Web site. Stations may charge a fee of 75 cents per tag. The tags need to be on the pelt to verify its legal harvest.
Bobcats are very common in Oklahoma, and pelts from cats harvested in the state may be sold on a worldwide market. However, bobcats are not as common in other parts of the nation. Therefore, an international law was developed to keep track of where certain types of animals, like bobcats, were harvested.
"The law requires states which allow the hunting or trapping of bobcats to monitor their harvest and document their origin of take. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service may use the tags to detect if a species is being overharvested and where problems with trade may occur," said Dennis Maxwell, law enforcement assistant chief for the Wildlife Department. "By meeting the law's requirements, our hunters and trappers are able to enjoy one of the most liberal bobcat seasons available and have the opportunity to export and sell the pelts they harvest."
Instructors pass on hunting heritage to thousands of Oklahomans each year
In schools, churches, and libraries and even under tents and shade trees, a small army of volunteers worked tirelessly throughout summer and fall. Volunteer hunter education instructors, state game wardens and other Wildlife Department personnel helped prepare thousands of Oklahomans for their hunting excursions this year.
"Since the inception of the hunter education program, instructors have been a critical component to its success," said Lance Meek, hunter education coordinator for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. "More than 14,000 people go through the program each year. They learn about everything from how to safely cross a fence with a firearm to the importance of respecting both wildlife and their fellow hunters. And of course, we couldn't do it without our volunteers."
According to Meek, becoming a volunteer hunter education instructor is a great way to give back to the community and to the resource. More than 300 clinics are held each year across the state from rural outposts to the heart of Oklahoma's largest metropolitan areas, and many are taught by volunteer instructors.
"The success of the program really goes back to all the generous and hardworking volunteers who love kids and love the sport," Meek said. "Whether you have one weekend a year to spare or you are able to help more often, there is a niche for everybody."
Volunteer instructors conduct hunter education classes after completing the certification process, which includes an eight-hour training workshop and test. The workshops, held at various locations throughout Oklahoma, are open to groups or individuals interested in volunteering to train and educate tomorrow's hunters.
"I would encourage every hunter to consider becoming a volunteer instructor. Everyone has something they can share with those who are less experienced," Meek said. "By teaching others the safe and ethical way to hunt, we can ensure the sport will be around for generations to come."
A variety of lesson plans and teaching aids are available for certified volunteer instructors to use during hunter education classes. Individuals or groups interested in participating can get more information by contacting Meek at (405) 522-4572.
A number of hunter education classes are available to the public this spring and it is never too early to attend a class. For a complete list of classes scheduled in Oklahoma log on to: www.wildlifedepartment.com
Lake Texoma blue catfish potential world record
If there was ever any debate - it's over now. Lake Texoma is the top blue catfish fishery in the region, if not the world.
Texas angler Cody Mullennix caught a 121-pound, eight-ounce blue catfish on the Texas side of Lake Texoma. The massive fish was caught on Jan. 16, and measured a full 60 inches long. He caught the fish using a three-inch dead shad on an 8/0 circle hook and was outfitted with 20-pound test line.
Anglers have long known about the trophy blue cat potential at Lake Texoma. In fact the lake is home to two separate Oklahoma state records.
Dan Grider holds the Oklahoma unrestricted division record with a 118-pound, eight-ounce monster blue caught on a jugline in 1988 at Texoma.
Rusty Keeton holds the Oklahoma rod and line record with an 87-pound, four-ounce blue caught in 2003 at Texoma. Keeton's fish is a favorite with visitors to the Oklahoma Aquarium in Jenks. Just hours after being caught the big blue was transported to the Durant State Fish Hatchery where it was held for a number of days to ensure its health. Fisheries personnel with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation then transported the monster to its permanent home at the Oklahoma Aquarium.
"She's just an amazing fish and really steals the show," said John Money, curator of Life Sciences at the Oklahoma Aquarium. "She feeds regularly and seems to have even filled out some since she was brought to us."
Like Keeton's record catch, Mullennix's fish will be on public display at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center's aquarium in Athens in several weeks.
Pending certification, Mullennix's big catfish will break several records including:
The International Game Fish Association's 20-pound line class record - previously George A. Lijewski held the record with a 109 1/4-pound blue catfish landed at South Carolina's Cooper River in March 1991.
The International Game Fish Association's all-tackle record - previously Charles Ashley Jr. held the record with a 116 3⁄4 pound blue catfish landed from the Mississippi River in Arkansas in August 2001.
The Texas rod-and-reel record - previously Reyes Martinez held the record with a 100-pound blue catfish landed at Lake Texoma in March 2000.
The Texas unrestricted state record blue catfish - previously C.D. Martindale held the record with a 116-pound blue catfish landed at Texoma from a trotline in April 1985.
Those fishing Lake Texoma need either an Oklahoma or Texas annual fishing license, depending on which state's waters they will be fishing, or anglers can purchase a Lake Texoma Fishing License for $12.00. The Lake Texoma license is valid for fishing on both the Oklahoma and Texas portions of the lake.
Photo courtesy TPWD (copyright 2004)
Cutline: Texas angler Cody Mullennix caught a 121-pound, eight-ounce blue catfish on the Texas side of Lake Texoma on Jan. 16.
Fishing ranks number one in Oklahoma according to "Sports Illustrated"
While most Oklahomans certainly enjoy tuning in to a college football game or attending a high school basketball game, Oklahomans have a clear preference when it comes to participatory sports. When "Sports Illustrated" magazine asked their readers their favorite sport to play, fishing came in number one ahead of all others, including golf, baseball and swimming.
The survey is supported by an unrelated report on fishing statistics published by the American Sportfishing Association. The report, "Sportfishing in America: Values of Our Traditional Pastime," shows how fishing remains a popular activity that not only provides a relaxing pastime but also creates a significant economic impact.
Here in Oklahoma, fishing statistics support the national trend.
According to the report, more than 44 million Americans fish - 774,254 of which fished in Oklahoma.
The report shows that an impressive $484 million in retail sales were generated by Oklahoma's anglers, which rippled through the economy to generate $992 million in economic output for the state.
The Oklahoma fishing industry supports over 11,000 jobs and those workers earned $245 million in salaries and wages.
Fishing-related purchases in Oklahoma generated $27.5 million in state tax revenues and $25 million in federal income tax.
Fishing also greatly supports our nation's conservation efforts through the Sport Fish Restoration Program. Special federal taxes on fishing gear and motorboat fuels channel hundreds of millions of anglers' dollars toward state fish and wildlife conservation and recreation programs each year.
The American Sportfishing Association's analysis is based on data from the National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation, conducted every five years on behalf of the International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. The survey data is collected by the Census Bureau and complied by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The full report is available online from the American Sportfishing Association at www.asafishing.org/content/statistics/economic.
For more information about fishing in Oklahoma, log on www.wildlifedepartment.com
Fur auctions coming soon
Hunters and trappers will have a chance to sell their bounty at a pair of fur auctions hosted by the First Oklahoma Trappers and Predator Callers Association.
The auctions will be held Saturday, Feb. 7 and March 6 at the Okmulgee Fairgrounds.
Both events will begin at 8 a.m., and the auction will start at 9 a.m. The buildings will also be open the day before each sale from 2 - 5 p.m. for dealer set-ups and for harvesters to store furs.
"In my opinion, the auction is one of the best places to come and get a good, fair price for your furs. We have buyers come in from all around and they are ready to buy," said Bill Jackson with the First Oklahoma Trappers and Predator Callers Association. "Even if you don't have any furs to buy, it's a great place to come and see what trapping is all about and learn from experienced trappers."
To participate in the auction, sellers must have a current Oklahoma trapping and hunting license. Sellers must also be members of the First Oklahoma Trappers and Predator Callers Assoc. Furs may be stretched and dried or "green." All bobcat pelts must be affixed with an export tag before they can be sold or shipped. Personnel from the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation will be present to provide tags, if necessary.
In addition, sellers who bring furs that belong to another person must possess that person's hunting and trapping license, as well as a letter signed by that person authorizing them to sell his or her fur.
Likewise, fur buyers are required to possess an Oklahoma fur buyer's permit in order to purchase unprocessed fur. For more information, contact Bill Jackson or Dee Jackson at (918) 336-8154.
Fish kill near Lake Texoma linked to golden alga
State biologists from Oklahoma and Texas are working together to investigate a minor fish kill near the Red River upstream of Lake Texoma. Biologists believe golden alga found in water samples taken from the area was to blame. This is the first time the naturally occurring toxin has been documented in Oklahoma, and officials view it as an isolated event.
Reports by area fishing guides Jan. 22 of dead and dying gar and shad in Lebanon Pool, a 150-acre off-channel lake in upper Lake Texoma, sparked investigations by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
All the initial symptoms of the dead fish point to golden alga, according to Paul Mauck, south central region fisheries supervisor for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. The alga kills fish by releasing toxins into the water that cause fish gills to bleed internally. There is no evidence to suggest the toxins are a threat to human health.
Water samples taken from Lebanon Pool revealed high levels of golden alga, however, subsequent samples from the Red River upstream and downstream have been sent to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department fisheries lab in Waco, TX for further analysis.
"We're going to keep a very close eye on this," said Kim Erickson, fisheries chief for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. "Right now we're optimistic that this bloom will remain isolated in the Lebanon Pool, but biologists from both Oklahoma and Texas will be working in the area taking water samples and looking for any more fish kills."
Texas fisheries biologists were the first to discover a golden alga fish kill in inland waters in the Western Hemisphere when a fish kill was identified in the Pecos River in 1985. Since 2001, golden alga fish kills have occurred on 23 reservoirs in Texas. The toxin has also been linked to subsequent fish kills in North Carolina, South Carolina and New Mexico. This is the first reported finding in the Red River basin downstream of Lake Kemp, located southwest of Wichita Falls, TX.
Golden algal blooms typically occur in winter months, often leaving a golden yellow ring around the lake shoreline. Golden alga (Prymnesium parvum) is native to estuarine habitats around the world. It is not known if the alga is a native or exotic species to inland waters.
To learn more about golden alga log on www.tpwd.state.tx.us/hab. The site includes a wide variety of information about harmful golden algal blooms, including scientific research updates, frequently asked questions and up-to-date news.
Anglers who see a fish kill or potential golden algal bloom can the call the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation's fishery division at (405) 521-3721.
"2004 Oklahoma Fishing Guides" and much more available at wildlifedepartment.com
The "2004 Oklahoma Fishing Guide" will soon be hitting the shelves of fishing and hunting license dealers across the state. But store shelves aren't the only place to find the guides. Anglers who want to immediately view or download a copy of the "2004 Oklahoma Fishing Guide" from the Internet can do so by logging on to www.wildlifedepartment.com
The booklet not only lists regulations governing fishing in the state, but it also contains fishing tips and a wide variety of other helpful information. Before heading out on a fishing trip in the New Year, anglers should be sure to pick up or print off a copy of the "2004 Oklahoma Fishing Guide."
That's not all that sportsmen can find on the Department's Web site. The site is a true one-stop cyber shop for the outdoor enthusiast.
Smart anglers can find out where the hottest fishing action is taking place by logging onto www.wildlifedepartment.com. Anglers can find out how some of the state's most popular game fish are biting including bass, catfish, crappie and others. Compiled by Wildlife Department personnel and independent reporters, the reports even include techniques and locations to increase angler success. To sign up for the weekly electronic news release, which also includes the weekly fishing report, go to www.wildlifedepartment.com
Hunters and anglers can even purchase their hunting and fishing licenses online by simply logging on to www.wildlifedepartment.com You can purchase a license 24 hours a day and never leave the comfort of your home computer.
It's never too early to get a jump on spring turkey seasons. Hunters now have a new tool to find out-of-the-way hotspots - digital interactive maps. Hunters can fly down the information superhighway and do some virtual scouting on wildlife management areas across the state - all while never putting a single mile on your vehicle. Log on to www.wildlifedepartment.com to view the new maps which include a wealth of information such as topography and aerial photos.
The Web site also features online brochures, outdoor news reports, information on non-game species and much more. Simply log on and explore.
NatureWorks brings art to life
Capturing the beauty and grandeur of wildlife on canvas or in bronze is a skill few individuals possess, but Oklahomans will soon have an opportunity to view the works of some of the country's most talented wildlife artists.
The annual NatureWorks Wildlife Art Show and Sale, held in Tulsa, attracts some of the best wildlife sculptors and painters in the nation. This year Ronnie Wells, of Salado, TX will be featured at NatureWorks. As a world-renowned sculptor, Wells has won nine Best of Show awards for his sculpture in the last fifteen years. His talent and recognition do not stop there. Wells is a skillful painter as well, winning Best of Show Painting from NatureWorks in 1997.
The annual Wildlife Art Show and Sale sponsored by NatureWorks, a non-profit organization, has generated matching grants to assist a variety of organizations for use in state wildlife conservation projects.
Programs such as the Hunters Against Hunger program, the Harold Stuart Waterfowl Refuge Unit within the Deep Fork Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and the Grassy Slough WMA have benefited from NatureWorks generous support.
Other recipients of NatureWorks' conservation grants include the Prairie Earth Trail at the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve in Osage County; landscaping of the Tropical Rain Forest at the Tulsa Zoo; an outdoor classroom at a Broken Arrow school; Sally Jones Lake waterfowl enhancement at Robert S. Kerr Reservoir; printing of Oklahoma Wetland Development Areas Atlas; providing grain drills for planting wildlife food plots; and cooperating with the National Wild Turkey Federation to relocate Eastern wild turkeys near Grove.
NatureWorks has scheduled this year's art show for the Tulsa Marriott-Southern Hills, Saturday, March 6 through Sunday, March 7. The show will be open Saturday (10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.) and Sunday (11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).
For more information about NatureWorks or the art show, call (918) 296-4ART or log on to www.natureworks.org.


text: Moneyoran Hill 414m hill, Sperrin Mountains Ireland at MountainViews.ie Guestuser: Login or enrol? Home Main Display Find a Walk Display INTRODUCTION New New Contributions Newsletters Challenge Walks News Tracks, Walks Upload a track Find a Walk SECONDARY OPTIONS: View all tracks secondary method View your tracks secondary method Challenge Challenge Walks Calendar Challenge Walks News Community Rising Summiteers Summiteers Hall of Records Irish Munroists Recent Contributors Contributors Hall of Fame Credits Lists, Completion & Awards Community Constitution Lists & Logs Irish County Highpoints Local 100 Irish Highest 100 Vandeleur-Lynams Arderins Arderin Begs Arderins + Arderin Begs Irish Best rated Irish 900 up Irish Island Munros All Twenty-Four Lists & Personal Log Log Analysis My Contributions & Profile Listing Programs Simple Irish Listings Simple Irish & British Listings More Guidelines Using the Service Comments Photos Statistics Conditions of Use Resources Links Motley Views General Forum Suggestions Forum Bibliography Welcome to MountainViews If you want to use the website often please enrol (quick and free) at top right. Overview Detail Legend Zoom: ?? Overlay features legend For more map options click on any overview map area or any detail map feature. Detail Map Features Showing 3 items: Carntogher 464m, Moneyoran Hill 414m, Tracks: 3192, 13km Find Suggested WalksOpen walks finder Find hill, mountain, island, coastal feature. Videos Recent Contributions 1 2 3 .. 20 Next page >> Get Notifications Cadamstown to Kinnitty - Slieve Blooms Track 4126 jgfitz a day ago We commenced the hike along the way-marked Silver River eco-walk. The well-illustrated information boards along the gorg walk, Len: 13.3km, Climb: 341m, Area: Slieve Bloom (Ireland) The Heights of Malta Track 4137 madfrankie a week ago When you're considering hiking trips abroad, Malta is not likely to be high on anyone's list. It's small and the human f walk, Len: 8.4km, Climb: 40m, Area: Malta, Dingli () Binn Charrach: NE finger from the Twelve Bens offers a way in. Summit Summary Collaborative entry Last edit by: simon3 4 days ago Knockpasheemore (Binn Charrach) is a small summit at the end of a 2km ridge heading NE from the lower scree slopes of Benbaun, and makes a worthwhile climb either in its own right, or as a diversi... Beast of Bencorrbeg tackled from the south. Track 4130 simon3 a week ago As many others have said Bencorrbeg is a serious scrambling challenge. This track was an attempt to reach it from the ... walk, Len: 14.0km, Climb: 669m, Area: Bencorrbeg, Twelve Bens (Ireland) Benco Bencorrbeg: Shapely outlier, serious scrambling. Summit Summary Collaborative entry Last edit by: simon3 4 days ago Bencorbeg dominates views from the mouth of the Gleninagh Valley. Although only 577m, the full extent of this height is seen when the mountain is viewed from north or east, as the mountain plunges... Benbulbin: donieg on the summit, 2008 Summit Comment donieg 3 days ago Thursday 29.05.2008 a beautifull sunny day I decided to take on the three peaks challenge of Benbulbin followed by Benwiskin and finally Slievemore. I found 'eflanaga' comment of 15.03.06 helpfull... Inis Leacan: Island south of Roundstone. Island Comment simon3 a week ago Inishlacken is a small island south of Roundstone. Here it is viewed from Inishnee. Wicklow: Glenmalure to Glendalough Track 4136 Onzy a week ago Glenmalure to Glendalough viw Wicklow Way & the Spinc... walk, Len: 11.3km, Climb: 540m, Area: Dublin/Wicklow (Ireland) More Mount Brandon Forum: General tomlug48 4 days ago On the way to the summit Oileán an Chlaí: Island in Bertraghboy Bay Island Comment simon3 a week ago Oghly Island is around 250m from the driveable Inishnee island. Lettershinna Hill: Grass top, distant heights. Summit Comment simon3 a week ago As paddyhillsbagger found, the Bens form a backdrop to the top of Lettershinna. This picture was taken during a generally mist covered period one May day. Waterfalls Galore Track 4135 march-fixer a week ago There are two major waterfalls in Jamaica. Dunn's River Falls and Reach Falls. Reach Falls is by far the most beautiful walk, Len: 6.2km, Climb: 109m, Area: Jamaica, Portland () Most Recent Monthly Newsletter. Conditions and Info Use of MountainViews is governed by conditions. General information about the site is here. Opinions in material here are not necessarily endorsed by MountainViews. Hillwalking is a risk sport. Information in comments, walks or shared GPS tracks may not be accurate for example as regards safety or access permission. You are responsible for your safety and your permission to walk see conditions. Credits and list definitions are listed here Credits RSS Feed for Recent Items. Visit our Facebook page. Video display Sperrin Mountains Area More detail Place count in area: 64, OSI/LPS Maps: 12, 13, 6, 7, 8 Highest place: Sawel, 678m Maximum height for area: 678 metres, Maximum prominence for area: 657 metres, Places in area Sperrin Mountains:Balix Hill 403mBarnes Top 456mBenbradagh 465mBessy Bell 420mBohilbreaga 478mBoviel Top 454mCarn Hill 448mCarnanelly 562mCarnanelly West Top 505mCarntogher 464mClogherny Top 408mClondermot Hill 220mCoolnasillagh Mountain 423mCorick Mountain 430mCraigagh Hill 460mCraignamaddy 385mCregganconroe 300mCrockalougha 407mCrockbrack 526mCrockdooish 321mCrocknamoghil 335mCurradrolan Hill 270mCurraghchosaly Mountain 416mDart Mountain 619mDart Mountain North-West Top 525mEglish 277mFir Mountain 362mGortmonly Hill 218mKnockanbane Mountain 441mKnockavoe 296mLearmount Mountain 489mLearmount Mtn S Top 492mLetterlogher 249mMeenard Mountain 620mMeenard Mtn W Top 480mMoneyoran Hill 414mMullaghaneany 627mMullaghash 480mMullaghasturrakeen 581mMullaghbane 467mMullaghbolig 442mMullaghcarbatagh 517mMullaghcarn 542mMullaghcarn South Top 525mMullaghclogha 635mMullaghclogher 572mMullaghcroy 242mMullaghdoo 568mMullaghmeash Hill 244mMullaghmore 550mMullaghsallagh 485mMullaghturk 416mOughtmore 382mOughtmore 569mOwenreagh Hill 400mSawel 678mSlieve Gallion 528mSlieve Gallion NE Top 496mSlieveboy 259mSlievekirk 370mSpaltindoagh 420mSpelhoagh 568mStraid Hill 303mWhite Mountain 537m Note: this list of places includes island features such as summits, but not islands as such. Centre on map. Moneyoran Hill Hill Derry County, in no lists, Limestone Bedrock Height: 414m OS 1:50k Mapsheet: 8 Grid Reference: C79319 07494 Place visited by 24 members. Recently by: eamonoc, Fergalh, Wilderness, trostanite, MichaelG55, Ulsterpooka, sandman, Peter Walker, dr_banuska, Garmin, AntrimRambler, Pacman, cerosti, mark-rdc, NICKY I have visited this place: NO (You need to be a logged-in member to change this.) More detail Longitude: -6.764138, Latitude: 54.908785 , Easting: 279319, Northing: 407494 Prominence: 29m, Isolation: 1.4km ITM: 679250 907481, GPS IDs, 6 char: MnyrHl, 10 char: MnyrnHilBedrock type: Limestone, (Dungiven Formation) Moneyoran Hill is the 876th highest place in Ireland. Trackback: https://mountainviews.ie/summit/766/ Rate Gallery COMMENTS for Moneyoran Hill 1 of 1 Follow this place's comments Picture from Harry Goodman : Moneyoran Hill from Carntogher Picture: Moneyoran Hill from Carntogher Harry Goodman on Moneyoran Hill, 2010 by Harry Goodman 4 Mar 2010 On 9 February 2010 I climbed Moneyoran Hill as an offshoot from a walk around the Carntogher Way. I started at C8184504530 A which is reached by the Tirkane Road NW out of Maghera. Initially I followed the road NW for about 800 metres to C8119705002 B where I turned left over a stile to follow a "green road" up to the open hillside, marked with red waymarks for the Carntogher Way. At a stout post, C8042004723 C, the track swings right past a lone tree on the left and continues up over a stile and alongside an ancient raised ditch to a T junction. At this new more distinct stoney track I turned left and followed it along for a short distance to the distinct rocky up crop of Carntogher. At C7963905824 D seats have been placed where one can sit and enjoy the splendid views. Nearby at the high point of the track is a large stone cairn " The Emigrants Cairn" at C7958105814 E, said to have been built by emigrants travelling to the port of Derry by this ancient road and leaving a small stone to mark the spot which gave them their last view of home before setting out for the New World. From here the Carntogher Way goes right along the E flank of Carntogher. However I continued N up the rocky face to the flatish summit of the hill at C7964206095 F, marked by a large wooden post and small plaque. From here I headed NNW for Moneyoran Hill some 1.4km away with its distinct rounded top and clear patch of green near the top (see photo). Initially I walked down to a fence junction at C79338071205 G before climbing up the gentle slope to the flat top. There is nothing marking the summit and any one of several heathery bumps could mark the "top". Indeed the given grid reference, if anything, seems slightly lower than other possible high points! eg C7931807496 H. Whatever the truth of the matter, the immediate summit area is so flat as to ensure ones head is higher than any point around!!! On ground slightly lower than the summit are three large boulders where one can sit and contemplate as to just where the summit might be. From the summit area I headed down the slope SSE and then up, across some fences, over the N shoulder of Carntogher to meet a good stoney track not marked on the OS map at C7992306315 I. I turned left and after some 150/200 metres along passed a marker for the Carntogher Way coming in from the right . From here I continued on down along the track, following once again the distinct red waymarks for the Carntogher Way, The panorama on the walk down was simply magnificent streatching from Slieve Gullion in Armagh, along the Mournes to the Belfast and Antrim Hills and ending in views of Knocklayd and Rathlin Island on the North Antrim Coast. On the way down I crossed a number of stiles to a T junction and minor road at C8218605651 J where I turned right. The tarmac soon deteriorated into a stoney and muddy track which I followed along back to the car park. In all a very satisfying walk. Trackback: https://mountainviews.ie/summit/766/comment/4467/ Your Score: Very useful << >>Average Picture from slemish : The distant Antrim plateau as seen from Moneyoran Hill Picture: The distant Antrim plateau as seen from Moneyoran Hill Not worth the money by slemish 27 Aug 2010 The two MV'ers who have previously commented on Moneyoran Hill both approached the hill from the south so in order to provide a bit of variety I decided to tackle it from the opposite direction. I parked at a small layby at the end of the Curraghmore Road, a minor track off the Drumbane Road out of Swatragh (803095 K). From here you follow the fence SW past a small forestry patch not shown on the OS map. You need to cross a few gates and barbed wire fences and a small brook to first get onto the slope of Pollangorm Hill. Head for the grassy gap between the dense heather that runs up this hill and once over the crest of Pollangorm Hill the 414m summit of Moneyoran Hill can be seen dead ahead. The whole area is terribly boggy and the deep heather made the going tough. As Harry Goodman notes the summit of Moneyoran Hill is very flat with no obvious mark such as a cairn. There were dark clouds coming in from the west as I reached the summit so I paused only for a quick snap of the only decent view available - NE to the whole expanse of the Antrim Plateau - Trostan and Slievenanee particularly prominent. Carntogher and the high ridge towards Carn Hill block most of the view to the rest of the Sperrins. I quickly left the summit area but alas heavy rain came on when I was still only halfway back to the car - I was very fed up by this point as I had no waterproof jacket on as otherwise it had been a dry day. I would not recommend this hill unless like me you were ticking it off. Nearby Carntogher offers better views and a firmer climb. Total trip - about one hour. Trackback: https://mountainviews.ie/summit/766/comment/6061/ Your Score: Very useful << >>Average three5four0 on Moneyoran Hill, 2009 by three5four0 29 Mar 2009 Climbed Moneyoran Hill in a circuit including Carntogher on a clear, but windy + cold Saturday this weekend. From Cartogher's summit descend a steep but short slope, crossed a fence & walk north into the wide col separating Cartogher from Moneyoran Hill. There is some drainage channels & a short section of heavy ground, but other wise not too bad for the Sperrins. Cross another fence and climb up hill (slightly to the right of a flush) to attain the summit of Moneyoran Hill, there is several small depressions (underground springs / streams ?) around the summit area, and a couple of small boulders provide a seat for lunch Descend EEN to pick up a track around 803078 L, going through an open gate in a fence first. If you can't locate the track, it is to the right of a small forestry plantation, which is not marked on the map. Go through a gate and past an abandoned farm, another gate and follow the lane down hill where it turns into a minor road. Take the first road on the right (opposite a farm), after 2.5 km turn right again & after another 2km turn right again to the car-park for the Carntogher Way Trackback: https://mountainviews.ie/summit/766/comment/3687/ Your Score: Very useful << >>Average Picture from sandman : Summit Area. Picture: Summit Area. For a quick up and down. by sandman 2 Nov 2015 By accessing this hill via the town land of Knockoneill and taking the farm road on the left at C8155308432 M continue on thru gates to abandoned farm house you can park here or if you wish and you are in a 4-4 you can continue on to C8025007773 N ample turning and parking. So now you have a quick up and down. Trackback: https://mountainviews.ie/summit/766/comment/18380/ Your Score: Very useful << >>Average (End of comment section for Moneyoran Hill.) Some mapping: Open Street Map (Various variations used.) British summit data courtesy: Database of British & Irish Hills (Creative Commons Licence) MountainViews.ie, a Hill-walking Website for the island of Ireland. 11 Million Visitors Per Year. 1300 Contributors.

subset: commoncrawl


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Growing up dreaming of cars is part of the American male psyche. [Not sure about the female psyche, never have figured that out.] My earliest memory is of a 1949, black Plymouth sedan. It had a sail boat on the hood, and on the glove compartment. Not sure if I like the car or the sail boats better! My family would often have a Sunday afternoon ride in the country, where I would hang out the window, slap at passing bushes and trees leaves, and feel the wind blowing carelessly past my head. [My folks would be arrested for allowing this activity today!]
The picture to the right shows my Dad, age 3 years, standing on the running board of the 1929, Ford Model A, Touring Car. The picture is dated 18 August, 1929. " What?... Me have any worries?...Not a chance !"...he seems to be saying. Or it could be, "...the fish that got away was this big!" At any rate, he sure seems happy and proud, standing there. A summer day, trees all full, a big smile across the face, are present. Guys and cars... and a fun summer day...some of what growing up is all about. Little did Dad know that only two months in his future would be the stock market crash of October, 1929. What a ride this would be.


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Impatience around NBA? You don't say …
The season is halfway over, and that's good news on many fronts, especially for coaches.
If a coach has made it this far, chances are decent he'll make it to the end of the season.
Alvin Gentry wasn't so lucky. Fired by the Suns on Friday, he was the scapegoat for an organization that has made one personnel mistake after another since Gentry took Phoenix to the 2010 Western Conference finals.
Did Gentry's basketball IQ dip when Steve Nash bolted for the Lakers? What about when management went after Eric Gordon because they believed New Orleans would let the restricted free-agent guard go?
Don't doubt Gentry is relieved to be out of what had clearly become an adversarial relationship with the front office, or that it won't take long for him to find another job.
It's hard to find anyone else to put in the coaching hot seat unless you think there is some pressure on Randy Wittman to produce victories in Washington now that John Wall is back.
Of course, the Wizards scored three wins in the point guard's first four games, including one on the road against a hot Nuggets team Friday. Isn't that proof Wittman wasn't the problem when his team went 5-28 without Wall?
Gentry was the fourth coach to be let go since the season began, which makes ownership impatience the biggest story of the first half of the season.
The Lakers established this season's tolerance level for unmet expectations when they sent Mike Brown packing after just five games. Maybe the Nets, Bucks and Suns figured L.A. had given the OK to be impulsive.
What else grabbed our attention through the midway point of the season?
Lakers' implosion: If the playoffs started today, the Lakers would be watching them on TV. After their offseason acquisitions of Dwight Howard and Nash, this is incomprehensible.
Clippers' eruption: Just as nobody believed the Lakers would be out of the playoff picture at this point, no one thought the Clippers would have the second-best record in the league or be the toughest ticket to get at Staples Center.
Rest-gate: David Stern's decision to fine the Spurs $250,000 because Gregg Popovich sent four key players home rather than play in Miami for a fourth game in five nights sets the stage for a future confrontation. Popovich vows he won't stop doing what he deems best for his team.
Stay tuned.
OK in OKC: It didn't seem possible for the Thunder to be as good without James Harden as they were with the reigning Sixth Man Award winner, but check today's standings.
Tim Duncan's resurgence: You can't find another player in NBA history who has improved so dramatically from one season to the next at age 36. His numbers are up in scoring, rebounding, assists and, most dramatically, blocks. It's the main reason the Spurs remain a title contender.
express-news.net Twitter: @Monroe_SA
Twitter: @Monroe_SA


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Signing up for the newsletter will keep you up to date on new products, sales, and other news of interest. This is the best way to stay in the know with what is currently going on at Seventh.Ink.
Sign up for the Seventh.Ink Newsletter to receive updates on new items, sales and special releases
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Seventh.ink is one-man art and clothing brand run by designer/artist Matthew Johnson. What began in 2007 as a fun side project quickly grew into a business that is now known worldwide. As my art style evolved over the years, it became apparent that Seventh.Ink was more to me than just a way to create fun shirts. My goals for the brand shifted and I began to focus on illustrating more artistic designs while refining my style. Once screen prints were added to the arsenal of available products, I knew that Seventh.Ink had made a major change in the direction that I ultimately wanted to take the brand. You can read more about the history of Seventh.Ink on the About page.
Seventh.Ink is a one man brand, but I couldn't do it without some help! Below are people and companies that I rely on for product production and other important tasks.


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Native Delaware: Environmental explorers
Wilmington teens learn about environment via Green Jobs program
2:01 p.m., Aug. 6, 2012--On a recent sunny morning, two shimmering blue dragonflies darted by the mauve blooms of Joe Pye weed in a newly created wetland on University of Delaware's Newark Farm. It created the perfect teaching moment for Jenny McDermott, facilities and land manager for UD's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, as she led a tour for teenagers participating in the city of Wilmington's Green Jobs program.
"When we put this wetland in, some people were concerned that we'd have more mosquitoes in the chicken houses nearby but we actually have less of a problem. Can anyone tell me why?" asked McDermott.
Campus Stories
From graduates, faculty
Doctoral hooding
"Dragonflies eat mosquitoes," replied Elijah White, a 14-year-old who, in summer, lives with his mother in Wilmington and in Georgia during the school year. "We learned that from Mr. Jim White when we were at the DuPont Environmental Education Center."
The eating habits of dragonflies is just the start of what White and nine other youth are discovering about the environment during this summer's Green Jobs program. A partnership between the University of Delaware, the city of Wilmington and six other organizations, the six-week paid work experience exposes the students to a variety of environmental topics.
The teens discovered where their drinking water comes from during a visit to the city's water treatment plant. They learned how to map GIS coordinates and the ways that scientists use geographic information systems at UD's Water Resources Agency, a program unit of the Institute for Public Administration in the School of Public Policy and Administration. They removed invasive plants from the Russell W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge and found out why these species are harmful even if -- as one student noticed – they sometimes have attractive flowers and foliage. They toured UD's Hugh R. Sharp Campus in Lewes, where they kayaked and then splashed around in the water as they caught aquatic critters in seining nets.
"I loved the trip to Lewes; it was fun," said Jonathan Tucker, a 17-year-old rising junior at Newark High School whose mother encouraged him to apply for the Green Jobs program. A self-confessed "indoor guy," Tucker said he now has a better appreciation for the natural world around him. "Yeah, there's something to be said for nature," said Tucker. "I'm amazed at how much land there is at the Urban Wildlife Refuge, even though it's in the city."
"I really like technology and want to work in the technology field," he added. "Now that I'm with Green Jobs, I've been thinking it would be cool to design hybrid cars that run on plant-based fuels."
Regardless of whether Tucker works in the biofuels industry or ultimately chooses another career path, he is picking up useful job skills this summer, including public speaking and resume writing.
"Although Green Jobs is centered on the environmental field, we want to help the students develop skills they will need to work as professionals in any career field," said Martha Corrozi Narvaez, associate policy scientist at UD's Water Resources Agency and the mastermind behind the Green Jobs program.
Several new features have been added to Green Jobs, which is now in its second year. "One thing I'm really excited about is that each participant has been paired with a mentor this summer," says Narvaez. "These experts will provide one-on-one guidance, training and insight into a variety of environmental careers. The hope is that many of these relationships are sustained so that if the teens have a career question next school year, they feel comfortable contacting their mentor by email or phone."
The teens also have a mentor in program counselor Adib Rushdan. A 2006 UD grad, Rushdan was employed in the medical technology field for several years before recently completing a stint in Wilmington city schools with AmeriCorps. He said that he plans to earn his teaching certification. "I'm enjoying my work with the Green Jobs students," said Rushdan. "They're a good group of kids. Green Jobs is a valuable program; it exposes teens to many different things outside of their normal experiences."
Such as a modern milking parlor – that's not an everyday experience for most American teens. The UD parlor was empty when McDermott and the students walked through it – it was close to 11 a.m.; way past milking time. McDermott explained that corn and alfalfa are grown on 120 acres of cropland to feed the farm's 100 dairy cows and that some of the milk is sold to a cooperative. "Chances are, if you drink milk and live in Delaware then you've had UD milk before," said McDermott.
As for what happens to the rest of the milk supply, the Green Jobs students discovered the tasty answer to that question on the last stop on the tour – at the UDairy Creamery, which produces premium ice cream from milk from UD's dairy cows.
Cherry vanilla? Chocolate marshmallow? Delaware River mud pie? Who knew that learning about the environment could be so sweet.
Article and photo by Margo McDonough


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JunoniaBook - 2011/05/24
From the critics
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Sanibel Island, the destination of Alice's annual family beach trip, is a premier place for seashell seekers. And the junonia is the most coveted shell. Every year, she has sought one. And since Alice is turning ten--double digits!--she is convinced that this is the special time when she will finally find it.
But this year's trip is... different. Her extended family, formed by the Island vacationers she has come to know and love, is changing. Some members will not be joining her on this year's holiday. And others have brought outsiders with them to her island sanctuary.
An extremely rare object, the junonia symbolizes all things precious to Alice: the elusive title shell is named after Juno, the Roman goddess of marriage and family. And this middle-grade novel is a simply told tale about shifting relationships and growing up. As she searches along the seashore, her ideas about family become more sophisticated. Alice's discoveries during this trip are a mishmash of disappointment, joy, and understanding.
Nothing special aabout this book. Nothing interesting happened. I could see the author was just trying to make the book be that 200 or so pages. In a book like this, you are supposed to sympathize with the main character, in this case Alice. I didn't. She seemed so whiny and she cared about little stuff. Next time the author should make an actual plot and conflict
Charming tween story; a rare look at 10-year old girl coping with emotional waves of daily life. Impressive for a man (author, Kevin Henkes) to be sensitive to issues pertaining to a 10-year girl's emotional stability—like the trauma of hearing another girl is the "most beautiful." (At least this is a sensitivity I never acquired despite fathering a wonderful daughter. Or perhaps I refused to acknowledge that anyone needed to be consoled when hearing praise for another.) I envy those who can share this book with a 6 to 12 year old. Despite not having any earthshaking events (fatalities, injuries, weddings, etc.), the story is veritable "rollercoaster" ride of mood changes: ups, downs, and hairpin turns. Junonia's story is subtle but unforgettable, and perhaps more importantly, this book clearly illustrates to all who encounter it, whatever their age, the potential of writers to explore private internal worlds. It should inspire many young readers to similarly relate their private states for others to appreciate.
I was really disappointed in this book. It was a week in the life of a girl turning 10, but I didn't think much of the book. Her narrative voice was not unique. Her experiences weren't that interesting. She's very young for 10, it seems. She seems very sheltered and kind of boring?
Why write about her?
Discover: Kevin Henkes introduces a new character who powerfully embodies the pains of growing up.
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Markets sold off a bit today.
First the scoreboard:
Dow: 13,910, -44.0, -0.3 percent S&P 500: 1,501, -5.8, -0.3 percent NASDAQ: 3,142, -11.3, -0.3 percent
And now the top stories:
- This morning, the Bureau of Economic Analysis published its first reading of Q4 2012 GDP. And it was a stunner. According to their measure, GDP unexpectedly fell by 0.1 percent. Economists were looking for a 1.1 percent growth rate.
- Government spending was the main driver of contraction, subtracting 1.3 percentage points from Q4 GDP growth and falling 6.6 percent. Federal spending fell 15.0 percent, led by a 22.2 percent drop in defense spending.
- Bank of America economist Michelle Meyer noted that today's GDP report was "grossly distorted" by government spending and inventories. "Outside of these two very volatile components, underlying growth improved with a solid gain in business investment," she wrote. "We believe today's report suggests upside risk to our forecast of 1.0% for Q1 GDP."
- Personal consumption, which is arguably the most important component of GDP, grew at a 2.2 percent rate, which was slightly stronger than consensus estimates of 2.1 percent. This was was driven largely by a 13.9 percent advance in the consumption of durable goods.
- The Federal Reserve concluded its first Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting of the year. And they had very little to say that was new. There was no change in their benchmark rate and they said they would continue its purchases of Treasury and mortgage-backed (i.e. quantitative easing).
- "Information received since the Federal Open Market Committee met in December suggests that growth in economic activity paused in recent months, in large part because of weather-related disruptions and other transitory factors," they said. That probably explains why Q4 GDP came up short.
- Facebook announces its quarterly earnings after the closing bell. Follow the release live on Business Insider.
- Don't Miss: JPM's Kelly: These Charts Show That Easy Fed Money Is Doing More Bad Than Good >


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The Earthquakes made things official with an old friend on Tuesday, announcing the signing of forward Scott Sealy. The Trinidadian had been in San Jose's camp the past two weeks, returning to MLS after a year-and-a-half in the Israeli Premier League.
Sealy spent the second half of 2008 with the Quakes after a midseason trade with Kansas City. That acquisition, along with those of Arturo Alvarez and Darren Huckerby, helped ignite the floundering expansion club to a nine-match unbeaten run and a late surge into the playoff picture. Sealy ended up scoring three goals to go with three assists in 14 games down the stretch for the Quakes.
Following that season, Sealy jumped at a lucrative offer from Maccabi Tel Aviv, for whom he appeared in 14 games and scored one goal. He then moved to IPL rival Bnei Sakhnin, where he appeared in 10 games.
Sealy rejoins a suddenly crowded strike rotation in San Jose. Fellow Trinidadian international Cornell Glen, Ryan Johnson and Alvarez all have started up top over the Quakes' first two matches, and Brazilian veteran Eduardo may make his debut Wednesday night in a U.S. Open Cup play-in match vs. Real Salt Lake.
"Being able to bring Scott back is something we have wanted to do since we finished the 2008 season," general manager John Doyle said in a statement. "He was a big part of our success in 2008, and he is a forward that holds the ball well and brings other players into the game. He will be a great addition to our team."
Because the Quakes held the MLS rights to Sealy, they didn't have to expend an allocation spot to secure his return, nor make a deal with another club. San Jose still currently sits atop the allocation list for international players and has wiggle room under the salary cap, which Doyle told MLSsoccer.com he intends to use this season.
To make room for Sealy, San Jose traded second-year striker and fan favorite Quincy Amarikwa to Colorado last week for a second-round pick in the 2012 SuperDraft.
An alum of Wake Forest, Sealy had a strong rookie season in 2005 with Kansas City, with nine goals and two assists. Over his first three seasons in MLS, he scored 26 goals. He also has 12 caps for the Trinidad and Tobago national team.
Sealy will be available for roster selection and officially added to roster upon receipt of his International Transfer Certificate. Per club and league policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.


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October 16 Happy Birthday Tim McCarver
Somebody once said that if you ask Tim McCarver what time it is, he will respond by telling you how a watch works. The ex NL All Star catcher turned sportscaster/analyst certainly likes to talk and at times can be a bit numbing with his explanatory soliloquies, but I've always liked the guy. I should say "almost always" because I was not too fond of him 48 years ago in the top of the tenth inning in Game 5 of the 1964 World Series when his three-run home run off Pete Mikkelsen gave the Cardinals a 3 games to 2 lead in that Fall Classic.
This native of Memphis was only 17 years old when he caught in his first big league game in 1959 for the Cards. He nearly had signed with the Yankees instead. The great Yankee catcher, Bill Dickey had been following McCarver's high school career closely and would visit the youngster's home and woo his parents with a cooler filled with fresh catfish caught in nearby Arkansas. When it came signing time, Dickey offered McCarver a $68,000 bonus and the Cardinals offered him $75,000. McCarver later admitted the only reason he had not signed with New York was because the Yankees already had Yogi Berra and Elston Howard behind the plate and were also wooing Jake Gibbs.
During the next decade he was the rock behind the plate for those great St Louis teams that appeared in three World Series, winning two of them. He would end up spending 21 years as a big league catcher retiring in 1980 and then immediately joining NBC as a back-up color commentator on Game of the Week broadcasts. He quickly advanced up the broadcasting career ladder until he was recognized as the number one baseball analyst on television, winning three Emmy's for his work in that capacity.
He joined the Yankee broadcasting booth in 1999 and covered the Bronx Bombers for the MSG Network through the 2001 season. He fell in love with Derek Jeter (though he once called him "Jerek Deter" on the air) and the Yankee teams he covered went to three straight World Series winning two of them.
This former Yankee reliever from the 1970s was also born on this date.


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The first snowstorm of the year has come and gone, but the winter is just getting started.
Driving on wintry roads is one of the most treacherous things motorists can do. More so than any other road conditions, snow and ice make everything we do behind the wheel more dangerous. But there are things drivers can do to stay as safe as possible when snow falls or rain freezes on the roads.
The first thing to remember is that unless it's absolutely necessary, don't drive. The fewer the cars on the streets, the easier it will be for plows to clear them. And fewer vehicles means fewer potential accidents.
If you know you're going to do a lot of driving regardless of the weather, have a mechanic go over your car. AAA suggests having him look at the cooling, charging and exhaust systems as well as the battery. When temperatures drop below freezing, a battery can lose as much as 60 percent of its charge.
Before you get on the road in inclement weather, make sure you completely clean off your car, including the hood, roof and trunk. Snow that blows off is a potential hazard: It can temporarily blind drivers behind you, and a large, frozen chunk that comes loose at highway speeds could cause an accident. Cleaning off your vehicle is more than just a courtesy to your fellow drivers.
When you head out in a storm, test the conditions. If there are no other cars around, try braking hard a few times and see if there's any skidding that increases the time it takes you to stop. Figure out how you need to handle your car before you head into traffic.
Even when you're comfortable in the conditions, caution must never give way to overconfidence. All-wheel drive may give you great traction and allow you to drive faster in slippery conditions, but on icy roads it can take you up to nine times as long to stop, according to AAA. So make sure you leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you.
If snow is predicted and you decide to stay off the roads, keep your vehicle in the driveway; don't park it in the street, which will only make it more difficult for plows to do their work. That's why this bad-neighbor behavior is illegal in some municipalities, subject to ticketing.
When you're shoveling or blowing snow, don't heave it into the street. Throwing snow back onto cleared streets just makes things worse for everyone, inevitably including you: When the village plow makes another pass, guess whose driveway the new pile will block?
If you have a catch basin in the street in front of your house, try to remove any snow or ice blocking it so that melting snow and ice can drain effectively. And if you have a fire hydrant on your property, make sure to clear snow from it so it can be found and accessed in an emergency.
Keep a supply of ice melt on hand to clear your driveway and sidewalks, because ice is far more hazardous for vehicles and pedestrians than snow. Salt — sodium chloride — is the old standby, but a product with calcium chloride is more environmentally friendly, because it won't eat away at pavement or damage your lawn. And don't spread sand, which can actually make hard ice more slippery.
The bottom line on being safe in the winter is common sense. Behind the wheel, don't try to do more than your vehicle can handle in inclement conditions. And if you don't feel safe going out, don't. Very few things are worth the risk.


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Museum Educators Open House
Tomorrow – January 22, 2011,
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Thinking of including a trip to the Houston Museum District for your class? Interested in professional development opportunities at some of Houston's coolest venues? Want a Museum docent or staff member to bring artifacts or demonstrations to your classroom for an extra boost before those standardized tests or just as a cool surprise for a great semester?
You can learn about what 42 of Houston's Museums have to offer this Saturday as the Houston Museum District presents the Museum Educators Open House!
Museum Educators Open House is a conference style event free of charge for registered Educators from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. followed by the opportunity to visit participating Museums until their doors close on Saturday with your MEOH wristband!
Register and download the day's program on the Houston Museum District website here!
HMNS is one of the host museums (all within walking distance) where many of the day's presentations will be held in 14 of our classroom spaces in the lower level of the Museum. Educators who attend for at least 3 hours, attend at least 3 presentations and show up between 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. at one of the participating host museum's registration table to trade in your "passport" for a certificate of attendance.
Extra special things that HMNS is offering for the Educators participating in MEOH 2011 include discounted tickets for educators to visit our special exhibitions Real Pirates and Forgotten Gateway – as well as an awesome 20% discount in the HMNS gift shop!
We hope to see you all here on Saturday!!


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Tonga Wedding Photographer
Hi there, we are Chasewild - destination wedding photographers. We love shooting weddings internationally and although we aren't Tongan based we would love to travel to Tonga to photograph your wedding. Please check out the page below to see what our photography is all about. Feel free to get in touch with us on our contact page and we can send you our destination wedding packages and travel schedule to you.


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When Tea in England gets a new Twitter follower, I like to welcome them to the fold with a brief introductory tweet; not a generic message, but one that tells something about them. In order to do that, I try to visit the profile page, blog, and/or website of every new follower first and have a little read to learn more about them and, especially, to find out their tea connection.
Several days ago, when Marielle Reuser (@miss_beretta) followed Tea in England, I went to her blog and saw that she lives in Yorkshire, works as a 3D artist for a video games company, and is one very creative, arty gal. She's into painting, drawing, doodling and digital art, getting herself and her surroundings dirty with ink, water colours, acrylics, and tons of pencil shavings. (Her mum must have been one very busy lady when Marielle was a little girl!)
I just loved her artwork so when I posted her introductory tweet, I asked if she had drawn any tea images. Her response was, "Thank you for sharing my work! One cup of tea (drawing thereof) coming right up!"
Well guess what? Here it is! It's called 'Sugar in Tea' and Marielle drew it just for me. Can you believe that? Marielle, thank you again. ♥ The thought of someone taking the time to do that for a total stranger is humbling.
Check out Marielle's blog, called Miss Beretta, to find out the story behind the teacup design she used in this image.
Are you on Twitter? You can follow Marielle Reuser here; and follow Tea in England here.


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Mark Spencer
President, DigiumMark Spencer founded Linux Support Services in 1999 while still a computer engineering student at Auburn University. When faced with the high cost of buying a PBX, Spencer simply used his Linux PC and knowledge of C code to write his own. This was the beginning of the world-wide phenomenon known as Asterisk, the open source PBX, and caused Spencer to shift his business focus from Linux support to supporting Asterisk and opening up the telecom market. Linux Support Services is now known as Digium, and is bringing open source to the telecom market while gaining a foothold in the telecom industry.
Spencer strongly believes that every technology he creates should be given back to the community. This is why Asterisk is fully open source. Today, that model has allowed Asterisk to remain available free of charge, while it has become as robust as the leading and most-expensive PBXs. The Asterisk community has ambassadors and contributors from every corner of the globe.
Spencer holds a degree in computer engineering from Auburn University, and is now president of Digium, Inc. He has also led the creation of several Linux-based open source applications, most notably Asterisk, the open source PBX, and Gaim Instant Messenger.


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What:Boulder City Council's consideration of three ordinances regarding recreational marijuana
When: 6 p.m. Tuesday
Where: The Boulder Municipal Building, 1777 Broadway
Info: To view the agenda visit http://bit.ly/12YqVhZ
City staff members Tuesday will unveil proposed rules to govern the recreational marijuana industry, including a controversial cap seeking to prevent Boulder businesses from growing more than 1,000 plants at a time.
The proposed ordinances would also freeze Boulder's acceptance of new medical marijuana business applications between March 1, 2014 and Sept. 30, 2014. The city would process applications from medical marijuana businesses seeking to convert to recreational businesses between June and September 2014. City officials propose they begin taking applications for new dispensaries and recreational shops beginning Oct. 1, 2014. Another key change would keep marijuana shops would keep marijuana shops further away from schools.
The proposed rules — many of which are based on existing medical marijuana regulations in the city — will be introduced at the Boulder City Council meeting tonight. The rules are intended to bring Boulder into compliance with Colorado's Amendment 64, which voters approved last November, city officials said. About 75 percent of Boulder voters supported the ballot measure.
The proposed ordinances, which are scheduled to be up for public hearings Sept. 17, pick up where City Council left off in March when it chose not to adopt recreational marijuana rules, instead waiting on the state to issue its regulations first. A majority of council members at that time said they favored a moratorium on such businesses until sometime next year, but did not adopt one.
Assistant City Attorney Kathy Haddock said the city is using the medical marijuana rules as a guide.
"People know what they need to comply and we know what we need for enforcement," she said.
The 1,000-plant limit for facilities cultivating marijuana for recreational use differs from the existing medical marijuana rules, though. Grows that provide medical marijuana are limited by the number of patients a dispensary serves.
Haddock said the newly proposed limit is meant to keep Boulder's enforcement costs down and monitor recreational grows with a single police officer.
"If a place has thousands of plants in it, it's hard to go through and count them," Haddock said.
But, those in the industry say the new rule will make it hard for recreational marijuana shops to meet demand in Boulder.
Shawn Coleman, a consultant who works on behalf of the marijuana industry, takes issue with the 1,000-plant limit, saying the state never set such a limit and no other community in Colorado has done so on its own. He said that limit would put Boulder stores at a competitive disadvantage as well as create the need for more grows, which would counter city goals to keep marijuana businesses from monopolizing city commercial space.
A city memo regarding the forthcoming proposals show that many medical marijuana business owners are concerned about the plant limits. At a meeting between city officials and medical marijuana business owners in July some attendees estimated that at least 100 facilities containing 1,000 plants would be needed to meet local demand for recreational pot, the memo says.
Coleman said Boulder's medical marijuana system works for both the city and business owners, which he said is why he is confused by city staff's recommendations to alter it before applying it to recreational pot shops.
"The staff is basically asking us to move from a well-known, tested, revenue-neutral system that has been in place for three years to something very different and very new without any real basis for it," Coleman said.
The newly proposed ordinance would not allow for recreational shops and medical dispensaries to co-locate. Haddock said the proposed rule was drawn up to address problems the city has encountered with bookkeeping practices at Boulder dispensaries, as well as a desire to keep down enforcement costs.
"The hardest things for these businesses in our experience is maintaining records," Haddock said. "We're under the understanding that Council does not want to add more staff."
An amendment to Boulder's medical marijuana ordinance changing the school setback requirement from 500 feet to the federal 1,000-foot standard also concerns Coleman who said it could force several recently established dispensaries to close. In written recommendations he sent to the city, Coleman recommended the change only apply to businesses established after the end of 2013.
Coleman disagreed with the delays in the city's acceptance of retail marijuana applications. The delay, he said, would keep recreational marijuana businesses from contributing the special sales and excise taxes on marijuana proposed by the City Council — assuming those are approved by Boulder voters in November— and would put local shops at a competitive disadvantage with businesses in cities like Denver.
Amy Hill, manager of Boulder's Helping Hands Herbals dispensary, located at 1021 Pearl St., said it is highly likely the shop will seek to become a recreational store, though she was hopeful it would continue to operate as a dispensary as well, if possible.
"We kind of feel there is not much choice given," Hill said. "There is no guarantee that people are going to renew their (medical marijuana) cards."
Hill said the reason recreational marijuana sales should work in Colorado is because a strong foundation has already been laid through medical marijuana, which, she said, is already very strictly regulated in Boulder. She said Helping Hands staff will be closely monitoring the city's discussions of recreational pot rules.
"I'm just really hoping that they don't take steps to shoot themselves in the foot when we can all be working together to make the city much, much more money," Hill said.
Contact Camera Staff Writer Joe Rubino at 303-473-1328, firstname.lastname@example.com or twitter.com/JoeCarmenRubino.


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This photograph of China's J-15 Flying Shark jet sitting on the flight deck of the former Varyag aircraft carrier has surfaced on China's Internet.
Alert 5 points out that the jet looks more like a full size replica than the real thing and that a Z-8 helicopter was also aboard.
There are two ways to launch an aircraft from the deck of a carrier: by catapult and through using a "ski jump" or lift at the end of the flight deck to push the plane into the air.
China bought this former Soviet carrier and modeled its new J-15 on the Soviet Su-33 planning to use the Varyag's jump deck to launch its new jets.
The following pictures of the J-15 are also from Alert 5 and show the plane taxiing, while in the background a ski jump is visible on an adjoining runway.
The J-15 is thought to have successfully completed jump takeoffs in 2010 and these new photos arrived last month after a series of low altitude test flights over the Varyag.
Despite its rapid development, the J-15 is not slated for deployment until 2016


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The Pennsylvania Securities Commission will be absorbed into the state Department of Banking under a bill Gov. Tom Corbett signed Monday.
House Bill 2438 authorizes creation of a consolidated "Department of Banking and Securities" within the state government's administrative branch. The Secretary of Banking is to submit a reorganization plan by Aug. 31; the law proposes a date of Oct. 1 for the merger.
The reform will make state government more efficient, said state Rep. Mike Fleck, a Huntingdon County Republican and HB 2438's prime sponsor.
"This legislation will consolidate two agencies and streamline their operations," Fleck said in a statement.
The change is expected to save about $1.1 million initially, according to Fleck. Both agencies are self-funded through fees for licenses and examinations paid by the entities they regulate.
The securities commission will have the same functions under the reorganization as it does now, said Michael Byrne, the commission's chief counsel. It increases the number of commissioners to five from three, adding representatives of the governor and the Secretary of Banking.
"We're not going to miss a beat," Department of Banking spokesman Ed Novak said today. Further comment regarding the merger would be premature, he said.
HB 2438, which passed both houses of the legislature unanimously, reverses a division accomplished some 40 years ago. The Securities Commission began as part of the Department of Banking but was made independent by the Pennsylvania Securities Act of 1972, Byrne said.


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The seizure last week of three sophisticated indoor marijuana growing houses, containing 769 plants weighing approximately 150 pounds in Webster, makes me wonder if we are missing a golden opportunity to improve the local economy.
With years of expertise and contacts, I am thinking these community growers could easily turn their illicit trade into booming and legal medical marijuana businesses.
Everyone would benefit. The local community would get some much needed tax revenue. The electrical company, whose meter was bypassed in the Webster operations, would get paid, and instead of being a drag, the operators would be a boon to the community.
But if there is big money to be made in medical marijuana enterprises, Massachusetts aims to bogart the joint. To ensure its dominance, the state, under the guise of public safety concerns, quickly moved to neutralize the small community dealer who has spent years risking arrest and jail time in diligently supplying his upstanding clients of lawyers, doctors, teachers, journalists, police officers and such.
This neutralization was effectively done through measures that made it cost-prohibitive for small community dealers to land one of the 35 medical marijuana dispensaries the state wants to license.
To even get consideration, a potential dispensary owner must show that he or she has at least $500,000 in operating funds on hand. Once this financial capacity is established, the potential owner must survive a two-phase application process carrying a $1,500 fee for the first application and $30,000 for the second. Both fees are nonrefundable. The 35 applicants selected from this process would be then subjected to a $50,000 annual certification fee and a $500 annual registration fee.
But if the small community dealer was shut out of the legal business, the selected dispensary companies are likely to sustain the biggest hit.
That there will be enough medical-marijuana-approved clients to create a booming industry is as certain as the leaves turning color in the fall. What is not as certain is whether these dispensaries will be able to attract and keep the number of clients necessary to stay afloat.
First, some clients might find the dispensary cost prohibitive. Under state regulations, individuals with medical marijuana prescriptions are required to pay a $50 annual registration fee. The fee allows the individual to purchase up to a 60-day supply of marijuana, considered by the state to be about 10 ounces. This can be expensive. At Canuvo Inc., a medical marijuana dispensary in Maine, for example, it is $350 an ounce.
If you can establish financial hardship, but are able to pay a $100 yearly fee, the state will allow you to grow your own supply. That won't be a popular prescription, however, given the opposition that most local police departments have to the law.
So with the authorized dispensaries overpriced, to whom will the medical marijuana users turn? To the small community dealer, of course, because while he might have been priced out of the legal business, he still has a big advantage over the legalized dispensaries: The ability to grow marijuana with low overhead.
So illegal grow houses will continue to flourish, and more people will be jailed for growing the drug illicitly. Medical marijuana dispensaries will perhaps have to keep raising prices to get something back on their investments, which means medical marijuana users will have to pay a higher than necessary price for their medications.
The state, of course, will be having a blast, and why not, the way it makes a dope out of us.


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Want to get together with other Hadooper's in your area?
Hadoop_in_China_Summit : Hadoop users/developers in China
KoreaHadoopUserGroup: Hadoop users/developers in S. Korea
JapanHadoopUserGroup : Hadoop users/developers in Japan
MunichOpenHadoopUserGroup: Hadoop Users/Developers in south of Germany
Warsaw Hadoop User Group: Hadoop users in Warsaw, Poland
Cracow Hadoop User Group: Hadoop users in Cracow, Poland
Stockholm HUG: Hadoop users in Stockholm, Sweden
France Hadoop User Group (Paris, France)
NL-HUG (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)
North America
Atlanta HUG: Hadoop users in Atlanta
Austin Hadoop User Group: Hadoop users in the Austin,Texas Area
Bay Area Hadoop User Group : Hadoop users in and near the San Francisco Bay Area
Boston HUG: Hadoop users in Boston
Boulder Hadoopers: Hadoop Users (and just those interested) in the Boulder Colorado area (and any stragglers from Denver too)
Chicago area Hadoop User Group: Hadoop users in the Chicago area
Cleveland Hadoop User Group: Hadoop users in the Cleveland area
DFW BigData Meetup Group: Hadoop, NoSQL , and BigData users in the Dallas - Fort Worth area
Florida HUG: Hadoop users in and around North East Florida
New Jersey HUG: Hadoop users in New Jersey
Hadoop-NYC : Hadoop users in and near the New York City area
Pittsburgh HUG Hadoop users around Pittsburgh
Los Angeles HUG Hadoop users in Los Angeles
Seattle Hadoopers: Hadoop users in Seattle
St. Louis HUG: Hadoop User Group in the St. Louis area
TriangleHadoopUserGroup - Hadoop ecosystem + Mahout users in the Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill North Carolina)
TwinCitiesHadoopUserGroup : Hadoop users in Minneapolis/St. Paul
UHUG: Hadoop users in Utah
Charlotte HUG: Hadoop hackers in Charlotte, North Carolina
Toronto HUG: Hadoop users in Toronto and the GTA, Canada
South America
Sao Paulo HUG: Hadoop Users Group in São Paulo, Brazil
Proposed HUGs
proposed: ItalyHadoopUserGroup - Hadoop users in Italy and near countries
Hadoop Israel: Hadoop users / developers in Israel


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How awesome would that be? Whole seas of diamonds swirling and flashing in the light…I can picture it and it is beautiful. So what gave me this idea, you ask?
Well, my son is doing a research project on a space topic and he picked Uranus. My husband jumped on the bandwagon and looked around on the web to help him find some interesting articles, and he found this one on Discovery News.
Apparently, both Uranus and Neptune have a magnetic north that is significantly off geographic north. The theory is that, due to the high temperatures and pressures and the abundance of carbon on both planets, there may be seas of liquid diamond on the planets. Scientists recently created conditions similar to what they believe exist on these planets in a lab and found that they could in fact liquify diamond, and surprisingly enough, when they did so the liquid diamond had similar properties to water. Water is one of the few substances that is more dense in its liquid form than its solid form, which is why ice floats. According to these experiments, diamond is the same way – as the scientists reduced the pressure on the liquid diamond and solids started to form, they floated. So in the diamond seas that are becoming more and more plausible on Neptune and Uranus, there could even be diamond icebergs!
Now we just need to send spaceships to Neptune and Uranus to see if we're right. If so, I want a diamond iceberg!


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Lauren's Dramatic Curtains Bedroom
Like this entry? Favorite it below!
- Name:
- Lauren
- Location:
- Chicago, IL
- Division:
- United States
- What do you love about your bedroom?:
- I love the dramatic curtains (hung over mirrored doors) that make it feel so luxurious! We hung curtains high above the doors (my mom's genius idea!) to create a dramatic effect that made the room not feel so long, and give the illusion of a floor to ceiling window rather than an outdated mirror. I also love that we have a mixture of modern, vintage, and handmade pieces. I'm most proud of our DIY headboard! The room is so narrow that there is no room for any kind of bed frame. So we DIY'ed a headboard that we could hang on the wall without taking away from the limited walking space at the end of the bed. My earrings and necklaces hang on jewelry frames made and gifted by my dad, and the cathedral art was drawn and gifted by my sister-in-law. I also love that my husband is as happy and comfortable in our bedroom as I am. I knew the curtains were feminine, so we made sure to include more masculine elements like the dark blue nightstand and industrial-style lamp.
- What are your tips for creating a beautiful, healthy and organized bedroom?:
- The most important change we made to our bedroom was creating dedicated hidden space for dirty clothes. Now instead of throwing things on the floor, we can toss them in a hamper in the closet and not worry about making a mess. And as much as I love open shelves on nightstands, they can easily become cluttered. We both have bed-side drawers for collecting those items that can easily pile up. Lastly, as in any room, lighting is key. We have one small window and not much natural light to work with. So we have overhead lights on a dimmer switch which allow us more light during the day, but soft calming light in the evening. We also both have task lights on our nightstands so we can read without disturbing each other.
- In modern homes, bedrooms have become more than just a place to sleep; they can be a retreat, a home office, a library, a relaxation zone. What are some ways you make the most of your bedroom?:
- My husband and I love music and dream about having a music room someday. In the meantime, we created a music nook in our bedroom. We play and sing much more often now that the keyboard and guitar are always visible and available. And the best part about it being in our bedroom is that I can drift off to sleep while my husband serenades me.