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Do you make New Year's resolutions? How about resolving to visit DRC in 2011? We wish all of you a wonderful year ahead
Friday, December 31, 2010
Posted by The DRC Family at 8:48 AM 0 comments
Monday, December 27, 2010
The dolphins are enjoying all of the visitors to DRC today!
Posted by The DRC Family at 2:18 PM 0 comments
Friday, December 24, 2010
The DRC family wishes you all the best this holiday season. Remember we will be closed on Christmas Day but open for the rest of the week including New Year's Day!
Posted by The DRC Family at 8:56 AM 2 comments
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
The DRC family wishes the beautiful Aleta a happy 26th birthday. We love you, Allie!
Posted by The DRC Family at 9:21 AM 2 comments
Monday, December 20, 2010
Visiting the Keys for the holidays? Don't forget to visit DRC! (Swim spots should fill fast so book online soon!)
Posted by The DRC Family at 4:36 PM 0 comments
Friday, December 17, 2010
From Our Pod to Yours . . .
Posted by The DRC Family at 12:38 PM 2 comments
At DRC this morning you'd see: Tanner doing research; Delta playing w/a mangrove pod; Luna and her mom chasing minnows; Molly being weighed. Dolphins doing dolphin things!
Posted by The DRC Family at 10:14 AM 1 comments
Thursday, December 16, 2010
As we decorate for the staff/volunteer holiday party, we wonder if visions of herring dance in dolphins' heads
Posted by The DRC Family at 3:14 PM 2 comments
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
It's a little brisk today, but the Florida Keys will warm up soon. How about a visit this weekend?
Posted by The DRC Family at 10:34 AM 1 comments
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Merina & Calf!
Nothing like video of a cute baby, its mom and other dolphins to bring a smile to the day! Check out the footage of Merina and her calf. Tursi and her little one, as well as Theresa, also appear. For those who wonder what's happening when a mom pushes the baby around with her rostrum, that's one of the ways that moms "surf" their calves. It's a form of play and bonding. It can also be used as discipline if the little one is wandering off or getting into trouble. :-)
So sweet! We hope you enjoy it.
Posted by The DRC Family at 11:12 AM 3 comments
Friday, November 19, 2010
Video of Tursi and Calf
We know you love seeing the dolphins as much as we do, but not all of you have the chance to visit them in person right now. This footage of Tursi and her baby was filmed over the last week or so. We hope you enjoy watching them swim and play!
Posted by The DRC Family at 3:24 PM 3 comments
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Sad News
Dolphin Research Center is deeply sorry to share the news that Calusa's calf died early this afternoon. In observing him since his birth last Saturday, we recognized that he was not thriving the way that he should in his first days. DRC's Animal Care Committee was looking at ways to intervene and supplement, but the baby's condition rapidly deteriorated.
Calusa was proving herself an excellent mom and did all that she could to nurture the baby. Unfortunately, in every animal species, the youngest are the most delicate. There is an even higher mortality risk for a female's first calf. Sadly, not all who are born survive.
All of us in the DRC family appreciate your concern and support.
Thank you.
Posted by The DRC Family at 6:00 PM 8 comments
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Baby Boom - Merina's Calf Arrives!
Merina's calf surfaces for a quick breath!
Only a couple days after the birth of Calusa's calf, Merina delivered her new, adorable baby on November 15th.
Judging from Merina's behavior and signs of labor contractions, we knew yesterday that it wouldn't be long. Although she held off until after dark, when Medical Director Pat Clough visited Merina's lagoon around 8:45 last night, the flippered bundle of joy was swimming alongside mom.
Merina is an experienced mother, having previously delivered and raised Pandora, Calusa and Cayo. This newborn calf is a cute addition to a lovely family.
It will be some time before we can announce the name of the baby's father. Conceived by artificial insemination, two males from other facilities are candidates. DNA testing in the future will determine which male is the baby daddy.
Posted by The DRC Family at 10:47 AM 7 comments
Friday, November 5, 2010
DRC Welcomes New Baby!
Look at the sweet face of Tursi's new calf!
The entire Dolphin Research Center family is delighted to announce the arrival of Tursi's baby on the evening of Friday, November 5th at 6:06 p.m. The little one is swimming strong around the lagoon with its beautiful mom.
For a few days, Tursi's behavior indicated that her time was drawing closer. Earlier today, she refused her fish meals and only ate gelatin treats that we offered. A member of the Animal Care and Training staff monitored her throughout the day. As time progressed, she hunched more frequently and exhibited contraction behavior.
At 5:16 p.m., the baby's tail flukes appeared and from that point on, the delivery quickly proceeded. Less than an hour later, after a good, long dive, up popped Tursi with the calf for a first breath!
As you know, Tursi is a very experienced, super, mom. From the moment she gave birth, she expertly steered her little one safely around the lagoon. The calf quickly caught on to the chin-slap breathing action that's common to all newborn dolphins. In order to make sure that the blowhole clears the surface, the baby brings its entire head up, so it's chin naturally slaps on the water on the way down.
Before another hour passed, Tursi had already cruised by the dock and accepted some juicy herring from the trainers. She'll take in lots of calories to produce rich milk for the newborn.
We won't know for some time whether the calf is a boy or a girl. Whatever its gender, the baby has a lot of ties in the DRC family. Its half-siblings are brothers Talon and Pax and sister Gypsi on Tursi's side. Kibby is the proud father, which means that Pandora and Delta are also half-siblings.
Welcome to the family, little one. Congratulations, Tursi and Kibby.
Posted by The DRC Family at 7:46 PM 13 comments
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Holiday Photo Time Again!
Your holiday card could be the coolest one your friends and family receive and you'll have a terrific memory of your dolphin visit.
Posted by The DRC Family at 11:49 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Donation for Dolphins!
The National Council for Traditional Arts (NCTA) recently presented a generous donation to Dolphin Research Center (DRC). Over $1500.00 was raised as a portion of the proceeds from the 1st Annual Florida Keys Traditional Music Festival that was organized by the NCTA in January 2010 at Sombrero Resort in Marathon. Area musician Joe Mama presented the check on behalf of the NCTA to DRC President and CEO Rita Irwin and Rainbow.
Many thanks to all of the organizers, performers, volunteers and attendees of the Music Festival. We appreciate your support!
Posted by The DRC Family at 9:55 AM 2 comments
Friday, September 10, 2010
Balloons Can Harm Wildlife
On a day when the ocean was incredibly clear and beautiful, local boaters spotted this bunch of balloons floating. Imagine the damage the balloons could have done! The boaters were not pleased. (Thanks to Cora for permission to use this photo.
With the start of football season, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) issued a press release to remind event organizers and other Floridians about a law prohibiting the release of more than nine lighter-than-air balloons within a 24-hour period.
Balloons released in Florida almost inevitably end up in the Gulf of Mexico or Atlantic Ocean. Wildlife, especially sea turtles, mistake balloons for food, and strings attached to balloons can entangle birds and other animals. The release into the atmosphere of large numbers of balloons inflated with lighter-than-air gases poses a danger and nuisance to the environment, particularly to wildlife and marine animals, according to Florida Statute 379.233, passed in 1989. The law provides for a $250 fine for violations.
There are exceptions for scientific or meteorological balloons released by a government agency or under government contract, hot air balloons that are recovered after launching, and balloons released indoors. The law also allows for the release of balloons that are biodegradable or photodegradable under FWC rules. Since 1989, the FWC has received only one such balloon design for review, and that balloon was not approved.
Obviously balloons are popular at outdoor events, including store openings and children's parties. It's up to all of us to make sure that the balloons are not released, but instead are disposed of properly to safeguard the environment and our animal friends.
Posted by The DRC Family at 9:54 AM 2 comments
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Watch Out for Manatees!
Boaters, when you head out on the state's waterways during the Labor Day weekend, please be extra cautious and obey manatee speed zone signs!
During warm weather, manatees move throughout Florida's estuaries and rivers, and along the shore line, canals and basins all over the state. Boaters can help keep manatees safe by following a few simple guidelines: Stay in marked channels, wear polarized sunglasses to improve visibility below the water surface and obey posted boat-speed zones. Using poles, paddles or trolling motors when in close proximity to manatees and having someone onboard scan the water when under way can go a long way to protecting manatees from harm.
Boaters should scan the water near or in front of the boat – looking for a repetitive line of half-moon swirls – sometimes called a manatee footprint – or a trail or a snout or fluke (tail) breaking the water's surface.
As of Aug. 20, 58 manatees have died in 2010 from watercraft strikes. With a little extra care, we can hopefully keep that number from increasing!
If you see a manatee in distress or a dead manatee, call the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922).
Posted by The DRC Family at 11:05 AM 2 comments
Monday, August 30, 2010
Japan Drive Fisheries
Many of you have seen the movie The Cove or the new series Blood Dolphins, both of which aired this past weekend on Animal Planet. Some of you have contacted us with questions about claims made by the shows that dolphins are captured in Japan and sent to marine mammal parks and facilities around the world. Dolphin Research Center is happy to answer your questions.
Dolphin Research Center and all of the 44 members of the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums condemn the mass killings of dolphins in the Japanese drive fisheries. For many years, we have educated visitors from around the world about the drive fisheries, calling on the Japanese to end this centuries-old practice.
DRC does not support the Taiji, Japan, drive fishery in any way. We do not have or take animals from the drive.
Not a single dolphin from Japan lives here or at any marine mammal park or aquarium in the United States, nor at any other Alliance member facility.
No dolphins have been captured from the wild to live at United States parks since the late 1980s.
Misinformation in The Cove and Blood Dolphins (A new series by Ric O'Barry) and in comments by the shows' principals makes it seem that dolphins captured in the Japan drive fisheries are sold to facilities in this country and around the world. That is not true. Continuing to mislead the public undermines the filmmakers' credibility and does nothing to further the purpose of ending the Japanese dolphin killings.
We and other Alliance member zoos, aquariums and marine parks are widely and rightly recognized by the public and by governments worldwide for our important and long-standing contributions to marine education, to the protection of ocean wildlife and habitats, and to the rescue and rehabilitation of injured and stranded marine mammals, sea turtles and other animals. The American public continued to show its support for the good work done by zoos and aquariums, and the dedicated and caring professionals who work with these animals, with more than 140 million visits in the last year alone.
Thank you!
Posted by The DRC Family at 3:15 PM 3 comments
Friday, August 13, 2010
Cuteness Counts
If we could bottle Florida Keys Sunshine and sell it, we'd all be wealthy as royalty. Instead, we'll celebrate that we live on these beautiful, sun-drenched islands, surrounded by clean (oil-free), gorgeous water. Plus, those of us who work at or visit Dolphin Research Center are greeted by dolphins -- including these two cuties.
Delta turns nine months old this month. He's a handsome boy with a lot of charm.
Luna is almost seven months old. She'll melt your heart!
Do you have vacation plans for a last trip before the kids go back to school? How about visiting the Florida Keys and Dolphin Research Center. Delta, Luna, and all of the dolphins, sea lions and humans would love to see you.
Posted by The DRC Family at 12:05 PM 1 comments
Friday, July 30, 2010
Risk of Oil Impacting Keys now VERY Very Low!
Oil Response Chief: Risk Now 'Very, Very Low' for Oil to Travel to Keys Via Loop Current;Risk 'Will Go to Zero Once Well is Killed'
The head of the U.S. Government's response effort to mitigate the Transocean/BP oil spill said that with the oil leak capped there is now little chance of oil remnants reaching the Florida Keys and the South Florida mainland.
When the well is permanently sealed there will no longer be any danger of oil impacts to the region, said retired U.S. Coast Guard Admiral Thad Allen during a news briefing in New Orleans Thursday.
Allen responded to South Florida "Sun Sentinel" reporter David Fleshler's questions regarding future threats to the Keys and South Florida:
"Once the well is killed we will have secured the source of oil in relation to the (Transocean/BP) Macando well," Allen said. "For the past several months there has been an eddy (Eddy Franklin) that has broken off from the Loop Current between the wellhead and where the current comes north and turns towards the Straits of Florida.
"So (that) eddy has created a hydraulic barrier between the wellhead and the Loop Current, and the chances that oil will become entrained in the Loop Current are very, very low and will go to zero as we continue to control the leakage at the well with the cap and ultimately kill it," he said.
Allen said that even with all the oil that gushed between April 20 and July 15, he does not expect significant oil remnants to reach the Keys or South Florida.
"The recent storm, tropical depression Bonnie, drove most of the oil to the northwest," he said. "This is all moving in the opposite direction where oil would need to be to enter the Loop Current."
Allen's comments are being carried in a Quicktime video file on the Florida Keys website at http://www.fla-keys.com/news/news.cfm?sid=7845 or via links off the website's home page at http://www.fla-keys.com.
All of us are delighted to hear this news and know that our beloved dolphins and their island home will continue to be safe. We join everyone in hoping that the clean-up efforts in the affected areas are successful and that the long-term impacts of oil in those areas can be reduced. We applaud the efforts of all of the Gulf Coast residents who have worked so hard to take care of wildlife and the environment.
Posted by The DRC Family at 10:21 AM 1 comments
Monday, July 26, 2010
Beautiful Start to a Great Week
Bright sunshine and beautiful dolphins. What a great Monday!
Talon helped a guest cool off during a Dolphin Encounter.
Awwww. How's that for some dolphin affection between Santini and Calusa?
These photographs were taken today, July 26th at Dolphin Research Center.
Posted by The DRC Family at 4:10 PM 0 comments
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Scene in the Florida Keys!
We just have to share a cool new video shot over the weekend in the Florida Keys, and a terrific new ad. Check them out!
You can view additional videos, shot in recent weeks, at www.fla-keys.com.
No doubt about it. We live in paradise!
Posted by The DRC Family at 10:13 AM 0 comments
Friday, July 9, 2010
DRC Wishes Everyone a Fabulous Weekend!
Another great day, heading into a beautiful, oil-free weekend in the fabulous Florida Keys. The threat of impact from the oil spill remains very low and that makes all of us smile!
Aleta wishes all of you a wonderful weekend and hopes you come to visit soon!
Rainbow, or one of our other dolphin artists, will be happy to collaborate with you on a one-of-a-kind DolphinArt T-shirt!
These photos were taken today, July 9, 2010, at Dolphin Research Center.
Posted by The DRC Family at 4:19 PM 1 comments
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
A Beautiful View!
Beautiful dolphins. People having a great time. No oil or tar balls in sight. That's Dolphin Research Center today!
All of the above pictures were taken on July 6, 2010.
Posted by The DRC Family at 4:32 PM 0 comments
Friday, July 2, 2010
Heading into a Holiday Weekend
Dolphin Research Center and all of the Florida Keys think that still being oil free is another great reason to celebrate this 4th of July holiday weekend. The dolphins need no excuse to zoom around their clean lagoons!
Nothing like a great dolphin smooch to bring out a smile!
These photographs were taken at Dolphin Research Center on Friday, July 2nd and show that there's every reason to come on down and enjoy the Florida Keys.
See you soon!
Posted by The DRC Family at 1:40 PM 1 comments
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
View the Underwater Beauty of the Florida Keys
Check out the new video footage, filmed this past weekend, underwater in the Florida Keys.
The video is posted on the Florida Keys official website. Click here to watch!
Posted by The DRC Family at 10:56 AM 0 comments
Monday, June 28, 2010
Beautiful Start to a New Week!
Posted by The DRC Family at 11:38 AM 0 comments
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Update on Oil for the Florida Keys
Aleta brings young son Delta by for a leisurely look.
Santini is always willing to show off her winning smile.
DRC staff and volunteer introduce visitors to cool objects in the Whale Wagon.
The news continues to be positive for the Florida Keys regarding the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. According to the most credible sources, currently, there is no imminent danger of the Keys being affected by the spill. Officials at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA, report that the northern end of the Loop Current has been pinched off into a large clockwise eddy (Eddy Franklin) so there is no clear path for spilled oil to enter the Loop Current from the source in the northern Gulf of Mexico.
We will certainly keep everyone posted if the situation changes, but right now the waters surrounding Dolphin Research Center and the Keys remain clear, clean, oil-free, and beautiful. You can check out some great footage that was filmed on Sunday, June 20th at www.fla-keys.com. It's a great time to make vacation plans and visit in person. In the meantime, here are some new photographs taken a short time ago around the grounds at DRC. (Please share this information with family and friends! Thank you!)
Posted by The DRC Family at 12:38 PM 0 comments
Thursday, June 17, 2010
People and Dolphins Having Fun in the Florida Keys
Everybody's enjoying the beautiful weather, and beautiful, oil-free water, at Dolphin Research Center. (Spread the word!)
All of these photographs were taken at Dolphin Research Center today, June 17th. We continue to be free of oil slicks, sheen and tar balls associated with the Deepwater Horizon explosion. There's no reason to cancel your vacation plans. In fact, it's a great time to plan a great Florida Keys getaway! Hope to see you at DRC soon.
Posted by The DRC Family at 1:40 PM 2 comments
Monday, June 14, 2010
Around the Lagoons - June 14th!
Guests in the morning Dolphin Dip loved Talon's enthusiastic leap!
Beautiful dolphins and clear water. It's another gorgeous day in the Florida Keys.
These photographs were taken by DRC's terrific photographers today, June 14th. Hope to see you soon!
Posted by The DRC Family at 3:59 PM 1 comments
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Jax - A Survivor's Tail
In January 2008, a very special young dolphin joined the DRC family. Visitors are amazed at Jax's story of being found, injured and orphaned as a young calf, how he was rescued and rehabilitated and then became part of the DRC pod. Jax - A Survivor's Tail shares his story. This trailer provides a small sample of the complete video.
Advance orders for Jax - A Survivor's Tail are now being taken at our Gift Shop and online. To order online, click here.
Posted by The DRC Family at 3:10 PM 7 comments
Friday, May 28, 2010
Friendly Visits to DRC Today
This family had a blast in their Dolphin Encounter with Pax!
We also received a visit from a stately Great White Heron.
Everyone enjoyed this view of the Gulf of Mexico from our causeway. Ahhh!
All of these photographs were taken on Friday, May 28th.
We hope that all of you enjoy a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend!
Posted by The DRC Family at 4:13 PM 0 comments
Thursday, May 27, 2010
DRsCene Today!
Some people have the mistaken impression that the Florida Keys have been affected by oil or tar balls. Thankfully, that's not the case. Our hearts go out to everyone in the northern Gulf that's currently being hit by the oil spill. We sincerely hope that the well is capped soon and that the clean-up efforts are successful.
A lot of people have been concerned and wondering if they should cancel their vacation plans in the Keys. Right now, everything's okay. There's a big three day weekend coming up and no reason not to visit DRC and experience all that the Florida Keys have to offer for fun, sun and water.
Here are some photographs we shot today.
Soaring high over clean, beautiful water.
Visit the Keys and DRC and enjoy the coolest way to travel!
The dolphin lagoons are clean and green -- just like they should be!
So far, so good and we'll keep our flippers crossed that this remains the case.
Posted by The DRC Family at 3:39 PM 0 comments
Friday, May 21, 2010
Oil Sheen Hundreds of Miles from Florida Keys!
The following information was made available today (May 21st) by Florida Keys officials.
Oil trajectory maps, released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration show light and very light sheens of oil and scattered tar balls from the Gulf oil spill in the Loop Current remaining well to the west of the Florida Keys through Sunday.
According to NOAA, the forecast position of the southern point of the sheen on Sunday is about 300 miles to the west of Key West.
Meanwhile, NOAA analysis show most of the oil, especially heavy concentrations, has not entered the Loop Current.
During a news conference late Thursday, NOAA administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco reiterated that finding and stated, "If you look at the satellite images, it is obvious that the bulk of the oil is far away from the Loop Current."
If any of the oil makes it to the vicinity of the Florida Straits, it would be highly weathered and both the natural process of evaporation and the application of dispersants would reduce the oil volume significantly, Lubchenco said.
Oil entrained in the Loop Current would require persistent onshore winds or an eddy on the edge of the Loop Current for it to reach the Florida shoreline. If this were to occur, the weathered and diluted oil would likely appear in isolated locations in the form of tar balls, NOAA wrote in a statement.
Currently, there are no advisories recommending against travel to the Florida Keys or any other precautions advising visitors and residents not to engage in fishing, diving, swimming or other water sports, according to the Monroe County Health Department. Seafood from Florida Keys waters is safe to eat, officials said.
Federal, state and local environmental and emergency management agencies have met several times to review and modify mitigation strategies if a response to an oil threat is required for the Keys.
On Thursday, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist added Monroe County, in the Florida Keys, to a list of two dozen Florida counties already under a state of emergency declaration. Even though no Florida county has seen oil yet, the declaration was issued so counties can pre-qualify for federal reimbursement funding and individual business loans, if needed.
With this news, it's clear that the Florida Keys are still in excellent condition. The islands are ready to welcome you for a fun-filled vacation with all of your favorite activities on, in and around the water. Come on down and visit. All of the dolphins, sea lions and people at DRC will love to see you!
Posted by The DRC Family at 11:41 AM 0 comments
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Tar Ball Update
The Coast Guard confirmed today that the tar balls discovered the other day in Key West are NOT from the oil spill in the Gulf.
From time to time very small numbers of tar balls float ashore from other sources, such as large ships that pass the islands far out at sea. While, of course, we wish that this didn't happen, at least they do not significantly impact the Keys shoreline or peoples' enjoyment of the Keys.
We continue to monitor the current situation with the oil spill and will keep you updated as news becomes available!
Posted by The DRC Family at 9:21 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Answers to Oil Spill Questions
As expected, many people are asking us about DRC's response and plans should the oil spill reach the Keys. These questions will most likely increase now that some tar balls have been spotted in the Lower Keys. Dolphin Research Center appreciates everyone's concern and wants to address your questions.
Q: When is the oil spill going to reach the Keys?
A: Although tar balls were recently spotted in the Lower Keys, we are waiting for the results of an analysis to tell us whether they are a result of the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. If these tar balls are not connected to the oil spills, then we do not have a definitive answer on when or if the spill will reach the Keys.
In much the same way as can happen with hurricanes, situations frequently change. Sometimes, some areas in the Keys are directly affected while others are not. Dolphin Research Center continues to follow the reports of government officials throughout Florida, including the Florida Keys and the City of Marathon, who are monitoring the situation minute by minute. There are many factors at play such as: federal plans to attempt to keep the oil from spreading, what form the oil might be in if it reaches our shores (Tar balls as opposed to liquid crude oil, etc.), how much might reach the Keys and where, as well as the impact of prevailing weather conditions. These are just some of the things that will determine the extent to which our beautiful islands will be directly impacted.
Q: How and what are you going to specifically do to protect the dolphins and sea lions?
A: From the time that the oil spill first happened, Dolphin Research Center began formulating plans and aligning resources to keep the dolphins and sea lions safe. What we do specifically will depend on what form the oil is in if it reaches the Keys, how much arrives, and other factors.
We have access to different types of containment booms and are developing other methods to help block the substance from the lagoons. A representative of BP's Incident Command has been on-site here at DRC to personally gain an understanding of our facility's needs if the oil approaches Grassy Key.
There are additional strategies that we can employ and we will do whatever is necessary to protect the pod. Until we know more precisely what form the oil will take and the degree to which it might impact us, we cannot specifically say which strategy will be activated.
Q: Will DRC help with the clean-up efforts in the Keys?
A: Absolutely! In fact, we've already begun. There are preliminary beach and coastal cleanups underway. The more existing trash and debris that is collected from the shorelines and mangroves now, the easier it will be to remove oil or tar balls should they affect the Keys. At a recent bridge/shore cleanup, DRC staff and volunteers worked on land and by boat and hauled in over 30 large bags of debris.
Dolphin Research Center is the licensed Manatee Rescue Team for the Florida Keys. Members of DRC's team have already completed training classes specific to oil response so that we can continue to perform this important service for any manatee that might be affected.
All of us who call the Florida Keys home value our beautiful islands and are committed to helping in whatever way possible.
Thank you for your questions and concerns about the dolphins, sea lions, and islands. Many people have asked how they can help DRC during this challenging time. Donations are always helpful and provide funds that we can use for whatever is necessary when it becomes necessary. Donations can be made on our website www.dolphins.org by clicking on Help DRC. Thank you!
We will continue to update this blog with additional information about the oil spill. In the meantime, if you have planned a vacation in the Florida Keys in the coming days or weeks, please do not rush to cancel those plans. Please continue to check this blog as well as the official Florida Keys website (www.fla-keys.com) for updates about the status of the oil spill and the Keys. The dolphins, sea lions and all of us at DRC would love to see you!
Posted by The DRC Family at 11:34 AM 1 comments
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Oil Spill Update - DRC
We're pleased to report that everything at Dolphin Research Center is great. The Florida Keys remain unaffected by the oil spill and are absolutely beautiful. If you're in need of a vacation with warm sun, sparkling clean water, places to relax, and plenty of fun activities to choose from, come on down!
Many of you have asked what you can do to help. Yes, we are accepting donations to help purchase equipment and supplies that we might need if the oil slick or any residual petroleum material makes it way to our islands. In the meantime, the best thing that you can do is continue with your vacation plans to visit the Keys and come to Dolphin Research Center. If you know of someone else who is traveling here, please reassure them that we're in good shape at the present time.
We can combat the oil spill. It is more difficult to change public opinion. We know that people are concerned about their travel plans and we're doing everything we can to guard against them thinking that DRC and the Florida Keys are in the direct line of the oil slick at present time.
DRC continues to carefully monitor the situation with the Gulf oil spill and plan accordingly to protect the dolphins and sea lions, should it become necessary. We'd like to stress that we are under no imminent risk at this time. Should the conditions change, we will have plenty of time to put plans into action.
We continue to keep the people and places in the Northern Gulf region who have been directly impacted in our thoughts and hope that their efforts to mitigate the effects are successful.
Posted by The DRC Family at 12:44 PM 0 comments
Friday, May 7, 2010
Update on Oil Spill
As of this morning, the oil slick from the Deepwater Horizons rig was still at least 100 miles away from the Loop current and many more miles away from the Florida Keys. We are assured by state and federal agencies that there are no impacts projected for the next 72 hours to any part of the state of Florida and likely longer for the Keys.
Dolphin Research Center continues to monitor the situation and make plans to protect the family pod if necessary.
Like everyone we are hoping that the efforts being made to contain the spill and lessen its devastating impact will be successful. Our hearts go out to everyone in the areas that are being directly impacted by the oil spill.
Many thanks for your continued concern.
Posted by The DRC Family at 10:43 AM 2 comments
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Information about the Oil Spill
Along with everyone in the United States, Dolphin Research Center is deeply concerned about the oil spill crisis in the Gulf of Mexico. The immediate and long-range environmental impact of hundreds of thousands of gallons of oil erupting from the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig will be nothing short of disastrous to the oceans and marine life.
As you know, the health and well-being of the dolphins and sea lions is always our number one priority. Although we do not know at this time whether the oil will threaten the Florida Keys and Dolphin Research Center, please rest assured that we are taking proactive measures to protect the family pod. Our team is hard at work on action plans and on obtaining appropriate equipment that we might need. For example, there are special booms that absorb great quantities of oil. If necessary, we will set these around the lagoons to form a barrier and keep away as much oil as possible. As always, we will do whatever it takes to keep the dolphins and sea lions safe.
Many of you have asked if we will move the pod to another location. Removing the dolphins from their ocean home and transporting them to unfamiliar surroundings would not be our first choice. We believe that there are other protective measures that can be taken before considering such a move.
Government officials throughout Florida, including the Florida Keys and the City of Marathon, are monitoring the situation minute by minute. There are many factors at play such as: federal plans to attempt to keep the oil from spreading and reaching the shores of Florida; prevailing weather conditions; and whether the oil slick reaches the Gulfstream. These are just some of the things that will determine whether our beautiful islands will be directly impacted.
The Florida Keys Emergency Management Team is providing us with regular alerts and we will remain on top of the situation until such time as the crisis is controlled and our family is safe. The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and the U.S. Coast Guard are advising Keys residents and visitors to seek information from official Web sites including: http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com and http://www.noaa.gov.
As always, we are grateful to all of you for your concern and support. Everyone at Dolphin Research Center knows that you join us in hoping for the best outcome during this troubled time. We will keep you posted as events continue to unfold.
Posted by The DRC Family at 1:32 PM 2 comments
Thursday, April 1, 2010
It's a Girl!
Pandora's daughter is simply adorable.
Posted by The DRC Family at 10:02 AM 19 comments
Friday, March 19, 2010
Unexpected Guests
You never know who'll drop by DRC, or swim by for that matter.
A staff member having a meeting at the end of the causeway just happened to look up at the right time as this mother manatee and her calf swam up. Apparently, there was some tasty algae growing on the rocks. A yummy manatee snack, perhaps?
After staying long enough for several staff members and guests to ooh, ahh and take pictures, the manatees swam off to their next destination, wherever that might be.
Posted by The DRC Family at 1:57 PM 0 comments


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Can You Believe These Foods Are Actually Good for You?
There are some good-for-you vittles out there that have gotten a bad rap and are better for you than you've been told. Here's a list of foods that will definitely lift that feeling of guilt we get when we think we've gone overboard.Read more

subset: commoncrawl


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It began with a tweet from Ron Howard:
Inspiring stuff indeed:
But it doesn't end there. Tobias Fünke's website, InsertMeAnywhere.biz, is a bit of viral genius, featuring another video — this time a plea from the doctor-cum-actor to James Cameron to "insert me anywhere" — along with a collection of six different characters (Average Fellow, Cowpoke, Doctor, Action Hero, Big Man on Campus, and Motorcycle Ruffian) whose photos and videos are shot against a green screen so that you can insert them … anywhere. Ahem.
But the easter eggy-goodness doesn't stop there; the site's ad, ManGo Juice, is its own tasty (afternoon) delight.
Oh, Arrested Development, I'm afraid I just blue myself again.
Arrested Development's 4th season will stream in its entirety on Sunday, May 26th on Netflix.


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In this online course, you will master the fundamental skills required by design professionals that use Autodesk Inventor 2018 as their solid model design tool. It also uses the Autodesk certified curriculum to give you all the skills you need to prepare for the Autodesk Inventor Certified User exam. The Autodesk Inventor online course begins by teaching you how to use and navigate the Autodesk Inventor interface. From there, you will learn how to create new part files, add sketches to the parts, and then use these sketches to create 3D solid geometry.
Along with the sketched based features, you will also learn how to incorporate many additional features to both add and remove geometry. These include features such as chamfers, fillets, holes, drafts, shells, and ribs. You will also learn how incorporating special tools while sketching or using work features, patterning techniques, and equations can help you become much more efficient with the creation of your design. To complete the 3D part design content, you will also learn to create advanced geometry using lofts and sweeps.
Once part modeling has been mastered, you will learn how part designs can be combined with one another to create an assembly design. Both joints and constraints are discussed as the methods that can be used to constrain parts to one another. Additional assembly design tools are also covered, enabling you to learn how to create parts and features at the assembly level, as well as how to replace, duplicate, and restructure components in an assembly design, and generate a Bill of Materials.
All parts and assembly designs are generally documented in a 2D format for manufacturing purposes. The 2D Drawing tools in Autodesk Inventor allow you to create and annotate 2D documents that reference and parametrically update based on a referenced 3D design file. The final chapters in this course teach you how to create and annotate 2D drawing views, and then add any additional detailing to accurately communicate the 3D model to the manufacturing team.
The online content is this course is both written and video-based, and includes hands-on exercises where you are required to use the software and downloaded files to learn and practice your new skills. This course includes a voucher to take the certifying exam. Proctor fees may apply, which are not included.
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The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.
There are no prerequisites to take this course, however, you should have a basic knowledge of the Windows operating system and be comfortable installing software, working with file structures, downloading files, and unzipping compressed files. You should also have a basic knowledge of design/drafting procedures and terminology.
Jennifer MacMillan has been teaching CAD for 22 years and is an Autodesk Certified Instructor (ACI). She currently manages a team of curriculum developers that design and develop curriculum for the Autodesk line of engineering software products. As a subject matter expert herself, MacMillan focuses her development efforts working specifically with the manufacturing software products. She holds a mechanical engineering degree from Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia, Canada.
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Jocelyn Benson was selected for permanent deanship after national search
Jocelyn Benson, who has served as interim dean of Wayne State University Law School since December 2012, has been appointed permanent dean.
At age 36, Benson becomes the youngest woman ever to lead a U.S. law school.
WSU Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Margaret E. Winters announced the appointment, which is effective Monday, June 16.
"While serving as the law school's interim dean since December 2012, Dean Benson has improved bar passage rates, increased the law school's ranking with U.S. News & World Report and added hands-on learning opportunities for students," Winters said. "I'm excited to see her future accomplishments in the years ahead."
Benson, who joined the Wayne Law faculty in 2005, was selected for the permanent deanship after a national search. She becomes the law school's 11th dean and the second woman to hold the job since the founding of Wayne Law in 1927.
Prior to serving as interim dean, Benson was an associate professor of law and associate director of the law school's Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights.
Her areas of expertise include civil rights law, education law and election law. She is widely quoted on those subjects in local, regional, national and international media and has written numerous book chapters and law review articles.
In 2010, her book, "State Secretaries of State: Guardians of the Democratic Process," was published. It is the first major book on the role of the secretary of state in enforcing election and campaign finance laws. That same year, she was the Democratic candidate for Michigan's secretary of state.
Benson is founder and executive director of the nonpartisan Michigan Center for Election Law, which hosts projects that support transparency and integrity in elections. She serves with retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor on the board of iCivics Inc., a national nonprofit organization that O'Connor created to improve civics education throughout the country.
Benson also is founder and director of Military Spouses of Michigan.
Prior to joining the law faculty, Benson clerked for Judge Damon J. Keith on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. She also worked as a legal assistant to Nina Totenberg at National Public Radio and investigated hate groups and hate crimes for the Southern Poverty Law Center.
She holds a bachelor of arts degree from Wellesley College, master of philosophy degree from Oxford University and law degree from Harvard Law School.
Benson has ambitious goals to accomplish for Wayne Law. As interim dean for 18 months, she already has gotten a head start on them.
In addition to the accomplishments that the provost cited, during Benson's tenure as interim dean the law school has created several new law clinics; debuted an Alumni Speaker Series, Good Governance Lecture Series and alumni mentoring program; and started a master of laws degree in U.S. Law for foreign lawyers.
"I am proud to be leading Wayne Law at this historic moment," Benson said. "We strive to be the leading legal education institution in the Midwest for providing opportunities to serve the public. As Detroit's law school, we also have a responsibility to be a magnet for the next generation of advocates for justice in our region.
"In addition, my hope is that all graduates of Wayne Law, no matter where they land, are instilled with a desire to integrate service into their careers. And all students of the law school should have the opportunity to actually practice and experience the law before they graduate. Students who come to Wayne Law become part of a network of advocates committed to the same ideals. Together, they are something larger than themselves. We are a family here."


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The ANABIN database documents the education systems in about 180 countries. It provides information about the university institutions, types of degrees, and degrees. Individuals who possess a university entrance qualification certificate from another country can use the database to estimate the validity of their education with regard to the German education system. On the Anabin website you can find information on whether or not your completed education allows you to gain admission to a course of study or field. You can also learn more about the German grade system by having your grade point average or average grade recalculated.
Medical Licensing
The Staatsexamen in medical courses of study is a state finishing exam based on a unified exam regulation. The medical courses of study are completed by the so called Medical Exam or Dental Exam. Medical licensing allows a doctor or dentist to practice medicine or dentistry.
The abbreviation AStA is short for Allgemeiner Studierendenausschus or the General Students' Committee, which is the executive student representation. Chairs, speakers, and officers of the Asta are elected by a committee made up of representatives from all of the student representative councils. You can find out more about the team, its responsibiities, and how to get involved on the Asta website.
B.Sc., B.A., Bachelor
The Bachelor is the first career qualifying degree and has a typical length of study of at least six semesters, eight semesters at the most. Depending on the course of study, students earn one of the following academic degrees: Bachelor of Science, B.Sc. for short, or Bachelor of Arts, B.A..
The Federal Training Assistance Act or BAföG, regulates financial support for student from the state. It is issued independent of the parents' or spouse's income or from assets available.The longest period of funding available is the typical length of study for the course of study. Bachelor and Master are two courses of study. Half of the funding is awarded as a grant and the other half is an interest free loan. The Student Services Office of Federal Assistance can provide information about specific details.
Individuals with German Secondary Degrees
Individuals with German secondary degrees includes international students or prospective students at German universities, who acquired their university entrance qualification certificate, HZB for short, in Germany or at a German school abroad.
Campus Office
Campus Office is the RWTH Aachen Campus Management System. Campus Office will accompany you throughout your studies. In it you can register for courses and exams, download your transcript, print out certificates of enrollment, and much more.
Credit Points or ECTS
Academic performance in individual modules is evaluated and are weighted with credit points or CP for an average grade. They are the unit of measure for the amount of time students have to invest to participate in class and prepare, homework, and exams. The term and abbreviation credits or ECTS points are often used. A credit point corresponds to an estimated amount of work of about 30 hours. One semester is typically 30 credit points.
The dean is a professor of a faculty elected by the faculty council. The dean represents the faculty and is also involved in teaching matters.
An academic degree that is awarded after a student has passed the Diplom exam from a university of applied sciences or a university in technical, natural science, economic, or social science courses of study. The Diplom degree is being replaced by Bachelor and Master degrees as part of the Bologna Reform. It is no longer possible to begin Diplom studies at RWTH Aachen.
An independent academic paper for the acquisition of a doctoral degree. All dissertations that are accepted by the university can be taken out from the University Library.
Erasmus or Stay Abroad during Studies
Erasmus stands for EuRopean (Community) Action Scheme for the Mobility of University Students. The fundamental elements are recognition of academic performanc abroad with the help of the European Credit Transfer Systems, ECTS for short, and financial support for exchange students via scholarships. If there is talk of Erasmus, the organized and financially supported student exchange is usually what is meant. A prerequisite for participating in Erasmus is that there be an agreement between the home university and host university.
EU or EEA
European Union, EU for short, member countries include Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Cyprus.
The European Economic Area, EEA for short, encompasses the European Union member countries and Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.
Termination of Enrollment
All students who are ending studies or are switching to another university must terminate their enrollment. This means, they are no longer listed among students. Students who did not pay the semester fee on time or do not pass their course of study due to three fails also have their enrollment terminated after being previously notified.
Departmental Student Advising
Every course of study has its own departmental advising, that advises them on questions about the content of studies, surrounding studies, or problems about their course of study.
A subdivision of the university responsible for the teaching and research in a field of academia, also called departments at many universities. There are a total of nine faculties at RWTH Aachen. You can refer to the course of study descriptions to find out which faculty your course of study is in.
The process for acquiring the "Venia legendi", that is the right to teach as a professor. This process includes submitting an academic paper, teaching experience, and a presentation in front of the faculty.
Student assistant, comes from the word Hilfswissenschaftler
Transfer Students
If you have begun studies at another German university and wish to continue them at RWTH Aachen, you need recognition of your academic and exam performance as well as placement into a higher core semester of the chosen course of study. You can request recognition of past academic and exam work as well as placement into a higher core semester from the responsible examination board. The examination board must also issue a certificate of good standing in order for you to continue your studies. Please make sure you have information about the process, how long the process takes, and possible forms you need to submit.
If there is no restricted admission for the higher core semesters, you can enroll with just the placement certificate and certificate of good standing. If the higher core semesters have restricted admission, a selection process takes place. You can only enroll after you have been admitted.
HZB or University Entrance Qualification Certificate
You can acquire the university entrance qualification certificate in a variety of ways:
- General University Entrance Qualification, also the Abitur, is a general university entrance qualification for all courses of study at RWTH Aachen, a university or university of applied sciences degree is also recognized as a university entrance qualification, in the event that a restricted study permit had originally existed (subject-related university entrance qualification or university of applied sciences entrance qualification)
- the subject-related university entrance qualification, also the subject-related Abitur, is a restricted university entrance qualification for certain courses of study at RWTH Aachen
Note: the university of applied science entrance qualification, also called the Fachabitur, is the entrance qualification for courses of study at universities of applied sciences
- Access for applicants qualified through professional training without a university entrance qualification certificate
- foreign secondary education degree, that is equal to the German Abitur, for example the International Baccalaureat, when certain conditions are fulfilled. It is possible that your foreign degree does not allow you to immediately begin studies in Germany. In that case, you may need to study for a few semesters in your home country or complete a Studienkolleg in Germany. You can get more information about the recognition of foreign school degrees in Germany from Anabin.
Applicants become members of the university with full rights and obligations through immatriculation or enrollment. There is an enrollment deadline, provided in the admission letter, for Numerus Clausus subjects. If you do not enroll by this time, you will lose your spot. Enrollment takes place in person and electronically or in writing at certain times in Registrar's Office.
Klausur or Exam
A written exam
Kommilitonin or Kommilitone
A term for a fellow student
A course with a small group of students, who talk with the lecturer and among themselves.
Proof of Performance
The transcript of records offers an overview of your proof of performance. You can print out your transcript of grades yourself on Campus Office.
Magister or Magister Artium
The academic degree Magister Artium was common for philosophical, linguistic, cultural, or historical subjects. It is no longer possible to begin or enroll in Magister courses of study at RWTH Aachen.
Mentoring Program
A mentoring program was created as part of the RWTH-wide initiative Excellent Teaching institutional strategy to improve study conditions. The goal of the program is to individually support and promote them. The service expands and supplements the services of the departmental student advising and student representative council to include personal and individual accompaniment throughout studies.
M.Sc., M.A., M.Ed., or Master
Master courses of study require an initial academic degree such as Bachelor, Magister, Diplom, or Staatsexamen. Depending on the course of study, the academic degrees Master of Science or M.Sc., Master of Arts, M.A., or Master of Education, M.Ed. are awarded.
Transcript of Records
The transcript of records offers an overview of your proof of performance. You can print out your transcript of grades yourself on Campus Office.
Numerus Clausus or NC
Numerus clausus, abbreviated as NC, is the restriction of admission to universities. The term comes from the Latin numerus for number and clausus for closed, and means a limited number, that is the the capacity for admission in certain courses of study.
Doctoral Degree
"Promotion" is the German word for the process of acquiring a doctoral degree. It is uncommon to acquire the doctoral degree in a structured graduate program at German universities in contrast to Anglo-American universities. Instead, doctoral candidates work on a research project that is supervised by a university professor, called either the Doktormutter oder den Doktorvater. The goal of doctoral studies is to independently write a scientific paper that advances the level of knowledge in a selected field of research. A prerequisite for being accepted to doctoral studies is the completion of a consecutive Master's degree or a comparable degree. A doctoral degree is aquired by finishing a dissertation and completing studies with a preferable above average grade.
Transfer Students with New Course of Study
Changing subjects or courses of subject is always recognized as a Quereinstieg. To transfer with a new course of study you need recognition for your past academics and exams as well as placement in a higher core semester of the desired course of study. You must send a request to the responsible examination board to have your past academics and exams recognized and to be placed in a higher core semester. Please make sure you have all the necessary information about the process, the processing duration, and posisble necessary forms. If the higher core semester has open admission, you can enroll with the placement certificate. If it does have restricted admission and there is a selection process, applicants from this group are selected via a lottery.
Typical Length of Study
The typical length of study is the time period in which studies should be completed. It can depend on the course of study and academic degree.
Studients, who wish to continue their studies at RWTH Aachen, must reenroll before the start of every semester in order to continue studying. You are reenrolled as soon as you have paid the full student body and social contribution fee before the reenrollment deadline.
Schein or Slip
A casual term for proof of performance
Self Assessment
A self assessment is, simply put, an orientation test. It serves to help you to realistically assess your own abilities. The individual test results offer you an opportunity to orient yourself when choosing your subject. Our Self Assessments help you get to know not only your own aptitudes and tendencies but also the demands of certain fields of study, since the tests were created in close collaboration with representatives from the individual subjects.
The semester indicates the academic half-year of a six month period. An academic year is broken down into a winter and summer semester. The summer semester lasts from April 1 to September 30, and the winter semester is from October 1 to March 31.
Semester Ticket
The Semesterticket is a ticket for all public transportation in Aachen and North-Rhine Westphalia. It is valid for one semester.
Semester Week Hours or SWS
The semester week hours or SWS are a unit of measure for the time extent of studies. A semester week hour corresponds to 45 minutes. A SWS number is given in the exam regulations for the entire length of studies. Example: 160 SWS for a typical length of study of eight semesters means that, on average a student will have 20 hours of lectures, seminars, and exercises a week during the semester.
Courses with a smaller group of students. Selected topics are discussed and discussions are led by a seminar leader. Students often have to give a presentation or present how they worked something out.
Social Contribution Fee
Students pay a fee each semester, which finances different student institutions, Student Services, and the semester ticket, among other things.
Some university courses of study are not completed with an exam by the university but rather an exam in front of a state exam office, the so-called Staatsexamen. RWTH Aachen has Staatsexamen in its teacher training subjects, which are being phased out and replaced by the Bachelor and Master, and human medicine and dentistry.
Student Services
Student Services is a service provider for students that is responsible for the cafeterias, the different dormitories, and questions about the Federal Training Assistance Act.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees were discontinued in North Rhine-Westphalia, NRW, after winter semester 2010/2011. The tuition or study fees, were fees collected by the university from students to pay for teaching.
Academic Progress Certificate
International students, who received a visa to study in Germany, are required by the Foreigners' Office in the Aachen City Region to submit an academic progress certificate after the typical length of studies has passed. On the academic progress certificate, the university confirms that the student is completing studies as scheduled and provides a prognosis on the expected academic degree. Contact your departmental advising to get an academic progress certificate.
Proof of an exam you have passed or successful participation in an internship or practical experience day.
Tutors are mostly student assistants who volunteer or get paid to lead exercises and practical experiences. There are also tutors in the student self-administration or the student dorms, who take care of newly enrolled students for example.
Exercise or Tutorial
A course with a restricted number of students in which students learn and apply the scientific work methods of a field.
Certificate of Good Standing
In order to enroll in a different course of study at RWTH Aachen, you must submit a certificate of good standing. You can get this from the examination board or departmental advising, for the course of study you wish to transfer into. You must submit all certificates about academic performance up to now, including previous studies at other German universities. A certificate about past studies at RWTH Aachen can be issued in Campus Office or you can get a print out from the Central Examination Office.
Bridge Courses
A service for first-year students to refresh or advance what they learned in school in subjects that are important for many courses of study. The goal of the courses is to enable an easier start to studies by repeating the basic knowledge required in the first semesters. Participation is voluntary and free of charge. You can get more information about the bridge courses from the Student Advice Centre.
A crucial form of teacing at the university. A lecturer presents a topic, and students write down the most important information or listen. Lectures are often supllmented by additional aids such as slides, maps, transparencies, or projectors.
Lecture Directory
A directory of all the courses offered at the university during a semester. It contains information about the course time, location such as lecture hall, seminar room, or lab, and the name of the lecturer. The lecture directory is also available online in Campus.
Wissenschaftliche Hilfskraft, a research assistant who is temporarily employed after final exams to assist wtih teaching and research
Admissions Process
There is an admission process for courses of study for which more applicants are expected than available study placements. The process is conducted by either the university itself (internal restricted admission) or by Hochschulstart, the Stiftung für Hochschulzulassung, in Dortmund. The Stiftung für Hochschulzulassung in Dortmund is responsible for courses of study that have restricted admission nationwide.


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Welcome to RedWolf Airsoft,
You've been selected to try the beta version of our new online store.
Would you like to try our completely new experience?
Grenades and launchers review
Real grenade launchers have been around in wars since the turn of the century. So it comes as no surprise that there is a plethora of grenade launcher replicas available on the airsoft market. However they see limited use in the field as indirect fire solutions as they are bulky, difficult to use and expensive to operate. Those who do use them know that they can have an extreme intimidation factor, and have the ability to rack up more than one kill per shot if conditions are just right. In this review we will look at not one, but several grenade launchers and a large variety of grenades.
Launcher Reviews:
G&P Knight's Type M203 Grenade Launcher (shorty)
G&P makes one of the most popular grenade launchers available; the venerated M203. This grenade launcher was designed as a replacement for the M79 grenade launcher during the vietnam war. it is most commonly seen fitted beneath an M16 or M4 assault rifle and is fitted in such a way that it does not interfere with the operation of the rifle it is fitted to, allowing the operator a defensive weapon. G&P faithfully replicates the M203 in every detail, from the operating procedure to the authentic markings on both sides.
The G&P M203 is made in full metal and finished in a matte dark gray powder coat. The barrel itself is a darker black that adds a beautiful contrast to the overall color. The heat shield is made from strong Fiber Reinforced Polymer which looks like it could stand a substantial amount of abuse before showing any sign of wear. A Neat show of detail on this launcher is the grooves present inside the barrel that give the effect of a rifled bore.
Loading a grenade into an M203 is an easier affair for right handed people than southpaws as the barrel release for this breech-loaded-boomstick is on it's left side and positioned in such a way to be operated with the thumb. Although it is still possible to use this in a left-handed configuration, just a little more sinister to use. In addition, not all grenades fit easily into the launcher due to retaining brackets at the entrance of the breech. For example, the King Arms XM1060 192 BB (long) grenade took quite a bit of wiggling before it finally slid into place. All other types of grenade shells tested (including other king arms grenades) fit into the G&P launcher without a problem making this a good choice of grenade launcher for those who want to have a variety of grenades. The problem fitting the King Arms long shell into the launcher seemed to be the rim of the front of the casing. If this was not tapered enough, the retaining brackets would get caught on it and present a problem for the operator in the field.
Overall the G&P M203 makes a solid choice as a grenade launcher but it's inability to fit onto anything other than an M16 or M4 and lack of unique look may make some people, looking for something less mainstream, look elsewhere for their choice of launcher.
Madbull AGX Launcher
Unquestionably one of the best looking launchers out there the AGX is a shortened replica of the German designed AG-C launcher (later known as the EGLM once in a polymer case). Originally designed for use specifically on the G36, the AG36 featured a left swinging barrel rather than a sliding one which makes the use of extra long grenades such as the King Arms XM1060 192 BB (long) grenade possible, although the diameter of the madbull AGX launcher makes it quite a tight fit and a firm push is required to get the shell into position (more on this later). The AGX launcher can also be used standalone as a grenade pistol due to it's shape and makes a great backup weapon as Madbull even makes a holster for it.
The Madbull AGX is full metal with a polymer frame, just like the real deal. It has a sublime jet black finish on all it's metal parts and features Madbull markings on the right side of the launcher. It also comes in a Desert Tan version for those of us with a thing for that color. One thing that really surprises you is the lightness of the launcher. It weighs in at only 790 grams! this is a massive plus as it keeps your weapon maneuverable while adding the immense firepower of a launcher to it.
Loading a grenade into the AGX is a right-handed deal primarily as the barrel swings only to the left and cannot be reversed. Loading from a left handed configuration requires the user to tilt the weapon to access the breech. This is not such a big problem as i have tried it myself and it's not too difficult. While the tilt barrel is not as ambidextrous as the sliding barrel of the M203, all other controls for the AGX launcher are ambidextrous including the safety and barrel release.
The AGX launcher is certainly one of the more unique launchers in the field and an easy RIS attachment system means that this launcher can fit most replicas with rails. if you're looking to stand out from the crowd, but don't mind paying a little more than an M203, this is definitely your best bet.
Star GP30 Grenade Launcher
For those of us with AKs and their variants, there are only a few choices of launcher, one of them is the Star GP30. The standard grenade launcher of the Russian army, the GP30 and 25 are both the same save for minor differences and location of the sights. Star's replica is of the GP30 with the sights on the right side of the weapon, intended for more comfortable aiming.
Star's replica of the GP30 is slightly unrealistic in the way it takes and loads shells, and in it's dimensions. The barrel is slightly larger than the normal to in order to take 40mm cased grenades designed for the M203, rather than using proprietary GP30 Grenades. To load a grenade you simply push a knob above the back of the barrel to the right, then stick your favorite M203 grenade into the barrel (any will fit). Push the knob back into position and pull the trigger.
The Star GP30 features other functions such as a safety switch and quick detach from the rifle but they are rather chunky to use and the safety is rudimentary and stiff. Presumable over time some wear and tear will make the operations function more smoothly but out of the box all the controls seem to stick thanks to a thick power coat of paint.
That's not to say that it's a bad thing either, the style of painting and crude looks all add to the feel and knocked-together look of a beat up AK47. Overall, this makes a 'not bad' choice of launcher for your AK47, but there are better ones out there.
Grenade Reviews
Madbull Stinger Grenades:
OWCH comes to mind when you think "stinger" grenades and at 262 FPS these grenades will sting, considering there are 24 of them hitting you at once. Resetting these things was a breeze and they held all their BBs well, no spilling when you tilted them. They come as solid as a rock and are finished in 3 nice colors of Red, Blue and Gold. Although they only hold 24 BBs they got a good range and spread thanks to a short barrel (and overall size) and high power.
Madbull Airsoft XM781HP CO2 High Power Grenade Shell
When you're really out to kill there is no other solution. The XM781HP is the only way to go. Able to take not only RED gas but CO2 this chronoes 8mm 0.45g BBs at 240 FPS and that's on RED gas (we darent chrono CO2). That's equivalent to 360 FPS on 0.20g BBs. This is one hell of a beast to fire and the crack it makes when it goes off will let anyone know that you mean business.
Madbull M576 Hi-Power Rubber Head Training Shell
Madbull really seem to be into the sadistic aspect of airsoft with products like the 'stinger' grenade and the ridiculous combination of 8mm and CO2 on their high power XM781HP but theyve really outdone themselves on their Slugshot grenade launcher. Able to take RED gas we highly reccomend that you DO NOT use this as a direct fire grenade as it can easily cause much more damage than the average BB. However firing this thing is an absoloute joy. The momentous recoil felt as you pull the trigger is wrist wrenching and the rubber slug flew down the hallway of 30 meters in a split second. The sheer amount of power you get in this grenade is staggering. Enough said.
King Arms M433 96 round cartridge
For those of us who enjoy a spot of realism in our games the King Arms M433 96 round cartridge is the ideal soloution. It's a 96 round grenade but what's special about it? It comes with a cap to make it look like a real M433 grenade while not in use. The one downside is that due to the high number of rounds, the power is relativley low, at only 200 FPS some people may not feel or admit to getting hit by this blast.
G&P 18 round Long grenade
The G&P 18 round long grenade is another grenade good for realism buffs as it comes with a cover just like the King Arms M433. However this grenade cover is labeled as a CS gas grenade making it a just a little awkward to claim a kill with it. despite this minor disadvantage, this is makes a great grenade for skirmish purposes as it has a high power due to it's long barrels, and therefore a greater effective range. It also comes with it's own molle grenade pouch in woodland camoflage making this a high value choice for those looking to get an effective grenade without needing to purchase more pouches.
Shooter 60rds High Power 40mm Gas Cartridge HEDP Shell
A newcomer to the grenade shell market, Shooter's design for the M203 grenade is rather unique. This is since the gas is loaded from the rear instead of the front. This system is much more convenient than loading from the top and safer too as the grenade will be facing away from you while charging with gas. The Shooter 60 round high power gas cartrige is reliable and doesnt leak BBs like some lower quality cheap shells do, it can also take the full range of gas propellants from HFC134a to CO2 so the power from this baby is an astonishing 300 FPS on RED gas. That may not seem like much at first but you have to remember that your opponent is going to be hit by up to 60 of these pellets flying past him.
Deep Fire 180 round BB Grenade Shell
Deep Fire has come up with a very high capacity grenade for your arsenal. For such a small size it carries much firepower at a staggering 180 BBs. However, due to the large number of BBs coming through the shell the power is down to 160 FPS. But there are so many BBs coming out of the barrel of the launcher that you can actually see the cloud of BBs fly towards your opponent. Unfortunately the Deep Fire grenade shell was built with function over form so it isn't very pretty. It doesn't have any markings of any sort or even a rounded head. But more importantly it's reliable and functions well.
Madbull Airsoft RG108 Muzzle Grenade
Lastly we have a grenade with a difference. This device is so unique it'll have everyone in the field gaping with envy. Reaching back to the days of WWI and WWII grenade launchers, this literally turns your gun into a boomstick. It's the Madbull airsoft RG108 Muzzle-mounted grenade. This handy device comes with a special QD flash hider and a QD fitting right beneath the grenade itself. To fire it, you quickly attach the grenade to the end of your weapon and fire once. Fitting the grenade to your muzzle is a breeze as it uses the same type of quick detach system as Madbull's Gemtech G5 Silencers (however the two are not compatible without modification) which is a two lug fitting. The grenade itself holds 108 BBs (hence the name) and is capable of taking green gas to provide good range. It is immense fun to use and gives the feeling of being a frontline soldier in a war.
Here's a little trick I've learned from a friend of mine who has a problem with grenades that spill BBs when you tip them. Use some cellophane or glad wrap to cover the grenade's tip. it holds the BBs in to prevent spillage and bursts when you set off the grenade, so it doesn't disrupt the grenade's operation.


text:
Noordwijk aan Zee
The English artist Mishka Henner has collected the images of the Dutch government's censorship of aerial images showing economic, political, or military locations. Previously, in 2009, the artist Greg Allen utilized these images as subjects for a series of paintings. While most nations take steps to protect sites of interest from being seen on technologies like Google Earth, the Dutch appear to do it with unique flair. The Dutch interventions deploy strategic pixelated abstractions, presumably to more easily blend into the digitally represented landscape. Though they destroy the presumed object of interest, they also create beautiful new impossible landscapes. Says Henner:
Governments concerned about the sudden visibility of political, economic and military locations exerted considerable influence on suppliers of this imagery to censor sites deemed vital to national security. This form of censorship continues today and techniques vary from country to country with preferred methods generally including use of cloning, blurring, pixelization, and whitening out sites of interest.
Surprisingly, one of the most vociferous of all governments to enforce this form of censorship were the Dutch, hiding hundreds of significant sites including royal palaces, fuel depots and army barracks throughout their relatively small country. The Dutch method of censorship is notable for its stylistic intervention compared to other countries; imposing bold, multi-coloured polygons over sites rather than the subtler and more standard techniques employed in other countries. The result is a landscape occasionally punctuated by sharp aesthetic contrasts between secret sites and the rural and urban environments surrounding them.
The technique is reminiscent of the "micropatterns" on military camouflage, which mimic poor-resolution digital photography. "Micropatterns" are not designed to hide soldiers from direct human eyesight. Instead, they allow soldiers to blend more easily into contemporary surveillance images. Yet the Dutch process of landscape camouglage carries other ...