text:
About EgyptEgypt backpacking tours conjure up images of pyramids and desert oasis's. Travelers to Egypt can enjoy the experience of a lifetime with a huge range of attractions to see and do.
Egypt Budget Travel
Below is a list of Egypt's top destinations, click on the link to view all details and tours.
Aswan, Cairo, Dahab, Luxor, Mount Sinai
Fast Facts
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Dialing Code
Egypt HIV/AIDS is very rare, with a rate even lower than the UK. Reasons for this low rate are not clear, but the country's long standing development and progression have ensured better healthcare facilities and increased education and awareness. Egypt is also a very conservation Muslim country which has strict laws and a high moral tradition.
Egypt airport options include the following:
• Cairo International Airport
• Luxor International Airport
• Sharm el Sheik International Airport
Egypt birdlife includes a number of coastal, wetland, savanna and mountain birds, as well as desert species. All Egypt's birds are migratory, with no endemic or near-endemic species to be found in the country.
Egypt conservation is essential to protect the country's endangered and vulnerable species of plant, birds and wildlife. As one of the world's first major civilizations, Egypt's habitats and wildlife have experienced human habitation, which resulted in a major number of species becoming extinct or endangered in the country.
Egypt cultures include the following:
• Architecture and construction plays a key role in ancient cultures
• Cuisine and food are an important social aspect
• Art has played a vital role for thousands of years
• Literature also plays an important cultural role
• Music and dance is very popular in Egyptian culture
Egypt customs allowances include the following, regardless of age:
• 200 cigarettes, 25 cigars or 200g of tobacco
• 1 liter of alcoholic beverages
• Reasonable quantity of perfume and 1 liter of Eau de Cologne
• Non-commercial articles up to a value of LE 100
• Personal effects, including electric appliances such as razor or hairdryer
Egypt is generally fairly developed in African standards, but is still a third world country. Egypt health is therefore something to consider carefully, and a few basic precautions will ensure you have a safe, healthy travel adventure and avoid illness ruining your experience.
Egypt inoculations include the following:
• Diphtheria
• Hepatitis A
• Rabies
• Tetanus
• Typhoid
• Polio
Egypt languages include the following:
• Egyptian Arabic 68% (national language)
• Sa'idi Arabic 29%
• Bedouin Arabic 1.6%
• Sudanese Arabic 0.6%
• Domari 0.3%
• Nobiin 0.3%
• Bedawi 0.2%
Egypt malaria info includes the following:
• Egypt is malaria-free
• Unless you are on route to a malaria-zone country, you do not need to take anti-malaria medication
• Taking medication unnecessarily is dangerous and poses a health risk
Egypt money and banking info is as follows:
• Credit cards are accepted in major tourist areas and cities but not everywhere
• Money can be exchanged fairly easily, especially in the cities and tourist areas
• Travellers cheques can be exchanged at some places, at cost however
• Banking hours are Sunday to Thursday from 08h30 to 14h00
• ATMs can be found almost everywhere across the main cities
Egypt people include the following groups:
• Egyptian 99.6%
• Bedouins 1 million
• Nubians 300,000
• Dom 230,000
• Greeks 40,000
• Berbers 5,000
Egypt local phrases in Egyptian Arabic include the following:
• Hello - Ahlan wa sahlan
• Good bye - Salam
• Peace be with you (common greeting) - Salam alekum
• No thank you - La shukran
• Do you speak English? - Bititkalimy Englizee?
Egypt plant life ranges from desert vegetation to lush river valleys, with water plants such as the iconic Lotus flower and Papyrus to be found in many wetland areas. Spring brings an amazing array of flowers across the country near water sources, and many cities sell a wide range of these beautiful plants in flower stores.
A November 2008 estimate puts Egypt's population at 75,500,662.
Egypt religion includes the following:
• Islam 90%
• Christianity 9%
Safety Tips
Egypt safety tips include the following:
• Terrorist attacks have been known to occur in high tourist focused areas
• Crime is otherwise low, but valuables should be kept safe and out of site regardless as a precaution
• Borders near Gaza, Liberia and Sudan are dangerous and should be avoided
• Avoid political gatherings and street demonstrations which may turn violent
• Have respect at all times and follow local customs to avoid being targeted
Egypt local transport options include the following:
• Car
• Bus
• Train
• Taxi
Travel Books
Egypt recommended travel books include the following:
• Egypt: Eyewitness Travel Guide by DK Publishing
• National Geographic Traveler: Egypt 2nd Edition by Andrew Humphreys
• Globetrotter Egypt Travel Pack by Globetrotter
• Egypt Country Guide by Lonely Planet
Visa Requirements
Egypt visa requirements include the following:
• Passport which is valid for six months at least
• ID or green card
• 2 Visa Application Forms
• 2 Passport photographs
• Copy of airline tickets or itinerary
What To Buy
What to buy for Egypt safaris:
• Egypt guide book and language guide
• Good backpack and a decent moneybag
• Plug adapter or electricity converter
• Travel pack of soap, washing powder, wet wipes and tissues
• Insect repellent
What To Pack
What to pack for Egypt safaris:
• Loose, lightweight cotton clothing with long sleeves
• Comfortable shoes, plus sandals and smart shoes
• Warm clothes, raincoat plus evening wear for going out
• First aid kit with basic supplies, plus toiletries
• Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen
When To Go
When to go to Egypt:
• Peak tourist runs from mid October to May, in winter to late spring
• May to October is the hottest time but is quieter and cheaper to visit
• August is one of the hottest months and is also the most humid month
• Spring offers the best weather and runs between March and April
• The Khamsin wind season runs for 5 days in spring
Egypt wildlife is fairly diverse, with a number of desert species, marine species, fresh water species and land species to be found in the country's various ecosystems and habitats. There are a number of rodent species, as well as carnivores, reptiles, fish and mammals to be found.
Commenting is not available in this channel entry.
Cairo to Cape Town Nile Trans
17 Weeks From
Cairo to Cape Town
The highlight of my trip had to be Gweru in Zimbabwe, it was my idea of paradise. So much to do there with the animals and the location of it was just beautiful!
— Anne B (27) from Ireland
The trip was great! A very relaxed ride in a mokoro, followed by camping in the Okavango Delta and watching the animals on the islands was awesome!
— Michael & Silke from Germany
I loved every millisecond of the entire trip... Guess what I did in Swakopmund? I skydived out of a plane - woohoo was that AWESOME :-)
— JoJo E (61) from Switzerland
Finally home and had a great time…. I loved the shark diving, Sossusvlei and Himba people. Saw Lions, a Leopard, Elephants, Giraffes, everything really! Thanks for…
— John E from Canada
I did not believe in god till i visited Chobe National Park.
— Juca from Uruguay
Do this on the Cape Town to Nairobi with Gorilla Trek.Tours with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Do this on the 14-day Kruger and Mozambique Safari.Tours with Kruger National Park Game Drive
Do this on the Best of South West Africa.Tours with Okavango Delta Mokoro Excursion
Do this on the Best of East Africa.Tours with Serengeti National Park Excursion
Do this on the Best of South West Africa.Tours with Victoria Falls Flight of Angels
Do this on the Best of South West Africa.Tours with White Water Rafting on the Zambezi River
Visit Etosha National Park on the Best of NamibiaTours through Etosha National Park
Visit Okavango Delta on the Best of South West AfricaTours through Okavango Delta
Visit Serengeti National Park on the Best of East AfricaTours through Serengeti National Park
Visit Victoria Falls on the Best of South West AfricaTours through Victoria Falls
Visit Zanzibar Island on the cape town to darTours through Zanzibar Island


text:
While the play of quarterback Colin Kaepernick has certainly been exceptional, he has also benefitted from playing behind a stable, and very good 49ers offensive line.
The five starting linemen played every game, and the right side of his line hasn't missed a snap all year.
According to Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com, right tackle Anthony Davis and right guard Alex Boone played all 1,005 snaps of the regular season.
They were also healthy across the line, with center Jonathan Goodwin and Mike Iupati only missing 25 offensive snaps all year (980 snaps each, or 97.5 percent) and left tackle Joe Staley only missing 47 snaps (958 total, 95.3 percent).
That's the kind of safety net you want and need when breaking in a new quarterback, and Kaepernick has certainly benefitted from their protection and run-blocking.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
The pharmaceutical industry's outsourcing of drug component production and Thailand's progress towards recovery from its financial crisis are among the topics explored in the current issue of Industry Trade and Technology Review (ITTR), a quarterly publication of the U.S. International Trade Commission's Office of Industries.
Industry Trade and Technology Review (ITTR) contains articles originating from research and analysis conducted by International Trade Commission (ITC) staff as part of its responsibilities to provide advice and technical information on industry and trade issues. The ITTR provides analysis of important issues and insights into the global position of U.S. industries, the technological competitiveness of the United States, and implications of trade and policy developments.
The ITTR is a publication of the Office of Industries. The opinions and conclusions it contains are those of the authors and are not the views of the Commission or of any individual Commissioner.
The current issue (October 1999) includes the following articles:
In addition, the publication includes an appendix charting key performance indicators for the steel, automobile, aluminum, flat glass, and services industries.
Industry Trade and Technology Review (USITC Publication 3253, October 1999) will be posted on the ITC's Internet server at www.usitc.gov. A cumulative list of articles published in the report series is also posted. The ITTR will also be available at regional federal depository libraries in the United States. To request a printed copy of the ITTR or to be added to the mailing list, contact the Office of the Secretary, U.S. International Trade Commission, 500 E Street SW, Washington DC 20436. Requests may also be faxed to 202-205-2104.


text:
Moderator: B&F Moderator
informer wrote:
sorry, there must be far better and adventurous stuff from the late 60s/early to mid 70s.
i mean dope sounds with a good portion of soul like
e.g. temptations "Zoom". that's really a dope track with
dub-like effects, 1973 (before the 1st tubby releases)
Users browsing this forum: Google [Bot] and 17 guests


text:
Game On! Sports Schedule for January 24, 2013
The last time the Knicks and Celtics tangled things got ugly.
In one of the weirder trash talking episodes in memory, Kevin Garnett told Carmelo Anthony his wife tastes like Honey Nut Cheerios following the Celtics' 102-96 victory earlier this month at Madison Square Garden.
The two teams and players renew acquaintances this evening in Boston in a game on national television, affording an entire nation the opportunity to see what kind of killer comeback Anthony has whipped up.
Here's a look at today's entire sports schedule. All times Eastern:
Toronto at Orlando 7 p..m.
New York at Boston 8 p.m. (TNT)
Los Angeles Clippers at Phoenix 10:30 p.m. (TNT)
NCAA Men's Basketball Top 25
Purdue at (2) Michigan 7 p.m. (ESPN)
UCLA at (6) Arizona (ESPN2)
Brigham Young at (10) Gonzaga 11 p.m. (ESPN2)
(19) Virginia Commonwealth at Richmond 7 p.m. (CBS Sports Network)
Tennessee at (23) Ole Miss 7 p.m. (ESPN2)
New York Islanders at Toronto 7 p.m.
New York Rangers at Philadelphia 7 p.m.
Montreal at Washington 7 p.m.
Buffalo at Carolina 7 p.m.
Ottawa at Florida 7:30 p.m.
Nashville at St. Louis 8 p.m.
Chicago at Dallas 8:30 p.m.
Columbus at Colorado 9 p.m.
Los Angeles at Edmonton 9:30 p.m.
Phoenix at San Jose 10:30 p.m.


text:
Icône Condominiums
1175 de la Montagne St.
Montreal, QC H3G 1Z2
Montrealers know their city drives many trends and evolutions in technology, recreation, culture and lifestyle — a trait that continues with the Icône condominium project being built at René-Lévesque Blvd. and de la Montagne St., a project that embodies the bold new vertical village concept in the heart of the metropolis.
Metropolitan Parking's James Essaris and developer Michael Dickey have raised the bar with the city's most stunning residential views, smart technology, forward-thinking design and exclusive features.
Scheduled for completion in 2016, the 38-storey Icône tower will feature 358 units ranging in size from 400-squarefoot studios to expansive three-bedroom apartments and two full floors of penthouses. It's an offering that appeals to a broad range of homebuyers — from young professionals and students to couples and retirees looking to enjoy the proximity, vibrancy and convenience of worry-free downtown living.
With 24-hour security and four express elevators shuttling you through the vertical village, the Icône development includes lifestyle amenities not normally associated with high-rise living — like the city's only elevated tennis court.
"Instead of looking out over a loading dock covered with gravel, ventilation systems and litter, we put down a court," Dickey said. "You can get active outdoors, at home. With abundant sunlight we also opted for a residents' garden, where you can grow your own herbs, or just get your hands in the soil even living in the heart of downtown."
Icône's full fitness room, sauna, yoga room and indoor pool help nourish the body, mind and spirit of any resident, forever banishing expensive, underused gym memberships. If you commute by bicycle, keep it tuned in the atelier before heading upstairs to relax in the terrace hot tub, then welcome guests to your special occasion in Icône's chic party room.
It's a true lifestyle hub, Dickey added, "as homes should be."
Units feature spectacular hardwood floors and nine-foot ceilings. German Poggenpohl kitchens boast engineered stone countertops, glass backsplashes and Miele or Bloomberg appliances. Bathrooms are an oasis of comfort and beauty with heated ceramic floors, custom cabinets and contemporary fixtures.
Icône's smart features include touch-screen controls to help manage your home with ease. "Smart switches can be programmed to operate upon exiting and entering, saving energy, and you will never have to enter a dark apartment again," Dickey said, noting that it all integrates into tablet technologies. "You can upgrade to program power blinds, dim lights or power down entertainment systems and view the lobby via webcam."
The amenities are astounding and right in the heart of the action, just steps from world-class shopping, dining, entertainment and the full breadth of Montreal's signature attractions. "The location makes it quite exceptional," Dickey said.
Icône extends up de la Montagne St. from René-Lévesque Blvd., while its 28-floor sister — Place Metropolitan luxury rental apartments — sits on René-Lévesque. For those seeking the vibrancy and pulse of downtown living in comfort and tranquillity, it's paradise. For hockey fans, it's nirvana, two blocks from the Bell Centre: You'll stroll home after a game and watch the late news wrap-up before others even start their cars for the long commute home.
In fact, Dickey sees a real evolution of people reducing their dependence on cars and eschewing long commutes by moving closer to their workplace and social centres. "Take away a Laval commute and you save two hours a day, 10 a week," he said. "More young people are living downtown than ever before; for many of them a car is no longer a requirement."
The modern yet comfortable and welcoming tower fits seamlessly into the downtown core's rich architectural legacy. With great attention to sun and wind loads, the curtain wall design features smooth corners and clean lines to maximize direct sunlight. "All units have continuous eight-foot windows for direct and indirect light," Dickey explained, adding that north-side units feature balconies with stunning views of Mount Royal, while other sides feature recessed loggias for comfort, privacy and spectacular vistas despite a 30-storey wind factor.
Icône is the crowning achievement of Metropolitan Parking, which conceived the award-winning Hotel Le Crystal, luxury apartments and Old Montreal condos. Metropolitan has been a major player in Montreal real estate for almost 60 years, its signature properties encompassing more than 500 condo units, hotels and restaurants, including Restaurant la Coupole in Hotel Le Crystal on de la Montagne and Weinstein & Gavino's on Crescent St.


text:
Hope College seniors Brent Smith of Owosso and Caitlin McDougall of Flint won first and second respectively in the 2012 Opera Grand Rapids Collegiate Competition, held on Sunday, April 22, at the Betty Van Andel Opera Center in Grand Rapids.
They were among nine finalists—four of whom were from Hope—from Grand Rapids-area colleges and universities competing in the event after having been chosen from among 15 select contestants during an initial round in February.
Smith, who is majoring in piano performance at Hope, will pursue a Master of Music degree in vocal performance at the University of Northern Iowa in the fall. He is a 2008 graduate of Owosso High School, and the son of Kent and Monica Smith of Owosso.
McDougall, who is majoring in vocal music education, will pursue a Master of Music in vocal performance at Indiana University in the fall. She is a 2008 graduate of Powers Catholic High School and the daughter of Patrick and Jesusa McDougall of Flint.
Smith and McDougall had also been finalists in the event in 2011. The 2011 competition was won by Sarah Ashcroft, a 2011 Hope graduate from Holland who completed her student teaching this past fall and has been accepted at Eastman School of Music.
The Opera Grand Rapids Collegiate Vocal Competition provides an opportunity for outstanding student vocalists being trained full-time at Greater Grand Rapids-area colleges and universities to compete in a professional competition and to be recognized for excellence by a professional opera company. The participating students are asked to perform two arias in differing styles, languages and composers from opera and/or operetta.
The area institutions that participate in the competition are Aquinas College, Calvin College, Cornerstone University, Grand Rapids Community College, Grand Valley State University and Hope.
In addition to Smith and McDougall, the Hope students competing as finalists were senior Jenna Buck of Elburn, Ill., and junior Haley Hodges of Hart. All four students study with Linda LeFever Dykstra, who is an associate professor of music and chair of the voice division at Hope.
All four students have been active in music or theatrical performance in a variety of ways through the years. Among other activities during the current school year, Buck was a member of the cast of the February 3-4 Opera Grand Rapids production of "The Magic Flute"; Hodges was a member of the cast of Hope College Theatre's November production of "The Two Gentlemen of Verona" and is in the current (April 20-21 and 25-28) production of "Ring around the Moon"; and McDougall and Smith were among the soloists selected to perform during the college's annual Concerto/Aria concert on February 3.
Each was also a member of the cast of the college's fall 2010 production of the Kurt Weill opera "Street Scene," a major collaborative effort of the departments of music and theatre, Buck as a member of the high school graduation class; Hodges as Jenny and a nursemaid; McDougall as Mrs. Fiorentino; and Smith as Harry Easter. All four were featured soloists during Hope's Musical Showcase concert at DeVos Hall in Grand Rapids on March 5.
In addition this year, Smith won first place in the Fourth-Year College Men category of the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) Great Lakes Regional Competition in March and third place in the Third-Year College Men category of the NATS Michigan State Chapter Auditions in November, while Buck won third place in the Fourth-Year College Women category in the NATS Great Lakes Regional Competition.


text:
Dennis Gartman, publisher of the widely-read Gartman Letter, is predicting that Mitt Romney will win the presidential election, according his latest newsletter.
Not only does Gartman think that Romney has a chance of winning the election, but he believes he can win "quite handily."
These are the points he uses when making a case for a Romney victory:
- First, he uses the the 1980 election as an example where Carter had a 2-3% point lead over Gov. Reagan. Carter was expected to win the race, but he did not.
- Gartman also refers to the Bradley/Wilder Effect, a theory where non-white candidates do better in the polls than the final election results show.
- Four years ago, Gartman explains that Sen. McCain didn't stand a chance of beating Obama because of the economic crisis and the public's disdain for the Bush Administration. He says that today Romney has a very real chance of winning.
- Another point Gartman makes is that he thinks the polls are "badly out of touch." First, he notes the calls have a very high refusal rate and only a small percentage are actually responding. What's more is the polling tends to take place during the day and those people responding are likely unemployed, therefore, they would likely need government assistance and would also likely lean toward the Democrats, he explains.
- The biggest reason Gartman thinks Obama will lose the election is the major groups that supported him in 2008 (African-Americans, Jews, college students, Catholics, small business owners, blue collar workers and suburban "soccer" moms) those percentages from those groups supporting him will likely fall.
What's more is while Gartman recognizes that President Obama did an excellent job surveying the Hurricane Sandy damage this weekend, he also thinks the president may have made some big mistakes over the weekend that could hurt him on election day.
First, Gartman writes that Obama should not have gone to Vegas for a campaign and funding trip calling it "bad form." Second, he says that Obama's "Voting is the best revenge" comment made it easy for the Romney campaign to turn it into voting is for "Love of country."
Still, Gartman points out that he could be "terribly wrong" with his prediction.
We'll find out soon enough.
SEE ALSO: Jim Cramer Explains Why He's Calling For A Blowout For Obama >


text: Circuit City wouldn't let Larry redeem his $40 digital transition converter box coupon unless he signed a credit slip agreeing to pay $40. Larry refused, and asked to cancel the transaction. Circuit City's manager responded by calling the police before following Larry into the parking lot to write down his license plate number.


text:
Windows 8 Product Key
Windows 8 installation is perhaps as simplified as that of any other Windows operating system. However, the users who are currently testing the Windows 8 may face a new dilemma when reinstalling or using the "Reset Your PC" option since no product keys were released by Microsoft with the current Windows 8 release. In this post we will provide you with the product keys for Windows 8 Consumer Preview. Check out this guide to learn about the Windows 8 Reinstall and Reset feature which allows restoring the system to a formerly saved state.
If you're about to reinstall or reset Windows 8
Consumer Preview Release Preview, then you may need to enter product key released by Microsoft.
Update: The final version of Windows 8 is now available for purchase, which means the Release Preview and RTM versions of the OS will shortly become invalid, if they haven't already.
Windows 8 Release Preview Product Key: TK8TP-9JN6P-7X7WW-RFFTV-B7QPF
Windows 8 Consumer Preview Product Key: DNJXJ-7XBW8-2378T-X22TX-BKG7J Windows 8 Developers Preview Product key: 6RH4V-HNTWC-JQKG8-RFR3R-36498 Windows Server 8 Developers Preview product key: 4Y8N3-H7MMW-C76VJ-YD3XV-MBDKV
It must be noted that the product key will expire on January 16th 2013, the expiration date of Windows 8 Release Preview.
Click here for more information regarding Windows 8 in general and its installation.


text:
Project:BRF 0018(160)424, PCN 01TL, Turner County
Location:Bridge 3.5 miles East of SD19 Junction over the Vermillion River just West of Davis
Improvement Type: Bridge Replacement, Approach Grading, Guardrail
Public Meetings
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) has a long history of public involvement in the development of transportation plans and projects. The 2005 passage of the Safe, Accountable, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU) requires a public involvement process. Public meetings for the project scope and/or design will occasionally be scheduled to collect public input, provide information and answer questions.
For more information or comments please contact the SDDOT project manager Steve Johnson, who can be reached by email at firstname.lastname@example.com or by phone at (605) 773-4458.


text:
Nov 11, 2011
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - Senior defender Alyssa Benjamin and junior midfielder Erin Ortega were each named Second Team All-Big West selections the league announced this week.
For Benjamin, the honor is her first as a Gaucho. A native of Petaluma, she played in and started 18 matches. As the season wound to a close, Benjamin was shifted from the back line to the forward line as UCSB searched for some scoring punch and she responded, scoring two of her three career goals in the final two weekends of the season.
Ortega, who earned Honorable Mention All-Big West recognition as a freshman in 2009, was among the Gauchos' leaders in scoring. In fact, her three goals tied for second on the team. A native of Santa Clarita, Ortega also assisted on a pair of scores and totaled eight points. She was also one of just three players on the roster to start all 20 games for UCSB.


text:
Update your department listing
Each university department and office has an editor who is responsible for maintaining directory information in the Online Department Directory application. This Web application feeds the Find a Department search. Offices that do not participate in the Online Department Directory will not be searchable.
Editors are frequently administrative assistants or office support staff. It is helpful for the designated editor to be familiar with — or even involved with — personnel paperwork so that updating the department listings occurs at the same time as staff changes.
To become an editor or to transfer your editorship to someone else
Email your request to firstname.lastname@example.com and copy your supervisor and any existing editors for the department. Along with affected department listing(s), please include your campus address and telephone number.
Got questions?
Email firstname.lastname@example.com or call the Help Desk at (573) 882-5000 for assistance.
Update your directory information
Is your personal information listed incorrectly? Or, do you want to remove it from the directory? Find out how to change/remove it.


text:
Gomez, the on-demand Web performance division of Compuware, has launched Gomez Custom Benchmark, a free online tool that lets you compare the performance of your Web site to others.
To create a custom benchmark, you enter your URL and the URLs of up to four other sites against which they wish to be compared. Within 24 hours, and every day for seven days, you will receive a custom benchmark performance report that ranks the performance and availability of all the URLs, complete with averages, highs, lows and trending information. .


text:
Your list is empty.
Save musicians, entertainers, speakers, and services, and they'll appear here.
Event Security Services Near You
Where do you need an Event Security Services?
Select your event location in Campbell County Kentucky:
Why Book Event Security Services
While the drunk and disorderly may be amusing to some people, they really put a damper on a nice elegant event. You may want someone equipped to deal with it if things get out of hand. Or if you are putting on a concert and that Tim McGraw impersonator looks so much like the real deal you are scared those women may rush the stage. Position a couple of tough looking guys at the front of the stage to keep the ladies in check. Safety first, so hire event security services to keep the fist fights at a minimum.
Click here to get quotes for Event Security Services near you!
About Booking Event Security Services
Whether you need extra help to show people to their seats (and make sure they stay there) or a few sets of firm hands to keep the fun from turning into downright rowdy, these event security services will help you provide a safe, happy environment at your event. Security services can be a good choice for fairs, festivals, trade shows, concerts, and private parties of all types. If you have a set of rules in mind for your event, then you probably can't have eyes and ears all over the venue, so hire some extra pairs.
You might also like:
Want more Event Security Services gigs?
If you provide Event Security Services services in the United States or Canada, get more gigs by joining GigSalad.


text: You have until the 31st to be enchanted and freaked out by Justin Boyd's magnificent sound sculpture, "Natural Black, Sprinkled With Cosmic Iridescence" at Artpace. It's a Window Works visual/sound installation, so all you have to do is park out front and listen. "Open" 24 hours a day. Particularly enchanting at night. Don't miss this crazy thing.


text:
Welcome to the
|Free Parking in the village
Remember that the first hour's parking is free in the large carpark in the village centre, behind the Co-Op.
(A ticket MUST be displayed though. See the ticket machines for details.)
A beautiful video of the village
of the village from the air
|Guess who won the 2002, 2006, 2010, 2016 & 2018 Best Kept
Village Competition, and was pipped at the post in
2003, 2004, 2005, 2009 & 2015? Click
And what huge honour did the village share with Wigan in 2009? Click here.
Play the Memorial Hall Fundraisers Lottery.
What is a Market Town Health Check? Click here.


text:
What the brand says:
Coverage Without Compromise:
- Flawless ultra definition finish
- Natural radiance without shine
- Weightless buildable coverage
- Packed with nourishing ingredients
Naked Skin is a buildable formula that allows you to customize your look. From light to full coverage, it feels like wearing nothing at all, yet transforms complexions. Skin looks natural, illuminated and bright: like the beautiful skin you were born with.


text:
Currency Displayed in
The Dell PowerEdge R900 server features an internal SATA slimline optical drive that can be either a CD-RW, DVD-ROM or DVD-RW. CD-ROM and CD-RW discs are fully backwards-compatible with these drives. All drives below are sold as bare drives. Cables, trays and interposers are sold separately.
All optical drives have been tested and pulled from working machines and feature our 90-day parts replacement warranty.
All prices are in USD.


text:
Walker will not face criminal investigation
Former First Selectman Jeb Walker will not face a criminal investigation into the excess pension payments he received after the town's pension committee decided against taking action.
Walker received more than $4,000 in pension payments over and above what he was entitled to. Once the issue was brought to light, he returned the money.
After more than 45 minutes of closed-door discussion, the pension committee, chaired by First Selectman Robert Mallozzi, and comprised of town CFO Dawn Norton, Board of Finance member Mary Cody, Tony Ryan of the fire department, and John Milligan of the police department, came to a quiet verdict. There was no public debate following the executive session, and only Cody chose to give an explanation for the decision.
"The committee weighed their responsibility on the pension plan itself because that's what we're in charge of and the fund itself has received back the monies that were due or misallocated to begin with and therefore the pension fund itself is whole, it hasn't lost anything," she explained, adding that they did not deem it necessary to continue any further.
Walker was paid a pension of $944 per month for nine months before it was discovered this summer that he was only entitled to $344 per month due to the amount of service he was vested for. He has since returned the more than $4,000 he inappropriately received. An October review of the issue by the law firm Bishop, Jackson & Kelly, LLC, determined that Walker and former CFO Gary Conrad's behavior violated the town's Code of Ethics, but made no determination whether the acts constituted criminal activity. The firm advised that the town's pension committee decide whether to pursue an investigation.
Several members of the Town Council, including Tucker Murphy, Roger Williams, Kenneth Campbell and Christine Hussey attended Tuesday's meeting, as well as a number of residents.
The crowd wasn't privvy to the decision, however, as Mallozzi asked that since the discussion would involve personnel issues it be held in executive session, which prohibits the public from being present. After Mallozzi suggested it, Cody made the movement to go to executive session, which was seconded by Norton. Jones voted in favor of it. Neither the fire representative Ryan nor the police representative Milligan voted in favor of it, with Milligan offering a quiet objection.
"I think the public has a right to know," he said.
More InformationFact box
Norton disagreed explaining that Walker is a pensioner of the town, and as such, it is a personnel issue. Mallozzi added that the town has a responsibility not only to its residents, but also to the privacy of its current and former employees.
During the public comment portion, a number of residents spoke in support of Walker. In contrast to nearly all other comments made at public meetings, running from the Board of Selectmen to the Town Council to the Board of Finance, the speakers at the pension committee meeting talked of the potential cost of turning the issue over to law enforcement and of Walker's good character.
"Jeb Walker's a good man who's done a lot of good things in our town. He's also a veteran. We have a great group of people in our community, and if we want them to keep stepping up, they shouldn't be attacked like this," said resident Diane Hobbs.
Resident Mike Farrell announced that he worked for Price Waterhouse for 39 years, during which time he saw the Port Authority investigate profligate expense account spending on the part of its employees. He said that by the end of the process, the lawyers' fees amounted to more than twice what was actually spent.
He expressed his incredulity at the value of an investigation, "to move into a process where the total amount of funds on this issue would amount to less than one day's fees for a partner of a law firm, [doesn't make sense]. Mistakes are an ordinary part of large organizations, especially when they [involve] arcane rules like pensions. [We're] dealing with a person who in my own personal judgment is a responsible individual."
firstname.lastname@example.com; 203-972-4413; @Woods_NCNews


text:
Part 1 primarily used reasoning and essay-like arguments.
Part 2 provided hard data --- that is: actual dependency graphs --- showing that tangled packages (let alone tangled classes) are common in very successful libraries and tools.
This part will probably be much more entertaining: It shows the logical flaw underlying static dependency analysis.
So, here is a Java program with two classes. The code itself is silly. I just wanted to have a program with cyclic dependency that is doing something (no matter how silly).
package p1;
import p2.B;
public class A {
private B b;
public void setB(B b) { this.b = b; }
public void f(String s) {
package p2;
import p1.A;
public class B {
private A a;
public void setA(A a) { this.a = a; }
public void g(String s) {
if(s.length() != 0)
As expected, the dependency graph of packages p1, p2 is a cycle:
Now, let's rewrite this program by applying the following rules:
- All variables, parameters, fields, return types will have the type "Object"
- Every method invocation such as x.m(y,z) will be rewritten as: Util.call(x, "m", y, z). The Util class itself is shown in the fragment below.
(Reservation: I've intentionally left out rules for the handling of overloading, static members, and object creation as these are not needed for the example shown here)
Here is how the program looks like (to avoid confusion I now use packages pp1, pp2 rather than p1, p2).
package pp1;
import pp2.B;
import static pp0.Util.call;
public class A {
private Object b;
public void setB(Object b) { this.b = b; }
public void f(Object s) {
call(b, "g", s);
package pp2;
import static pp0.Util.call;
public class B {
private Object a;
public void setA(Object a) { this.a = a; }
public void g(Object s) {
if(!call(s, "length").equals(0))
call(a, "f", call(s, "substring", 1));
Of course, we also need to write the static method Util.call (in package pp0). Here it is:
package pp0;
import java.lang.reflect.Method;
public class Util {
public static Object call(Object r, String s,
Object... args) {
for(Method m : r.getClass().getMethods()) {
if(m.getParameterTypes().length != args.length)
try {
return m.invoke(r, args);
} catch(Exception e) {
throw new RuntimeException(e);
return null;
We can now take a look at this dependency graph of pp0, pp1, pp2:
(Irony mode on) Wow! No tangles! This technique is awesome. No matter how big and tangled your program is, you can apply these two very simple transformation rules and you will get this nice-, loosely coupled-, code, where each class depends only on Util.call(). Amazing! (Irony mode off)
Do you see the paradox? Tools that detect cyclic-dependencies are using type information from your source code to help you find highly coupled modules. However, these tools encourage you to eradicate the information on which they rely. In a sense, they want you to make them blind. This makes no sense.
Clearly, the transformation rules that we applied did not really eliminate coupling. They just swept it under the rug. The coupling is still there, waiting for run-time to raise its head. If one claims that cyclic dependency analysis is not valid *after* the transformation, due to inability to determine the run-time dependencies, one should also acknowledge that cyclic dependency analysis was not valid *before* the transformation due to the same reason: inability to determine run-time dependencies.
Is there a morale here? I guess there is. Think about dynamically typed languages:
- If you believe in static analysis of dependencies you should start developing in a dynamically typed language and you will immediately boost your static analysis score through the roof: no cycles, no coupling of packages/classes/methods.
- (otherwise) you don't believe in static analysis. You know that the static picture is only a distorted reflection of the dynamic behavior. Hence, you know that you cannot trust a tool that tells you that your program is OK. If this is what you think, then you are already writing in Smalltalk, Self, Javascript or Ruby.
Update 1: Added "(Turning irony on)"
Update 2: Added the reservation


text:
Empress Shôken Fund: helping National Societies respond today, plan for tomorrow
12-04-2010 News Release 10/61
In 2010, the Empress Shôken Fund will grant more than 111,000 Swiss francs to three projects carried out by Red Cross Societies on three continents.
The initiatives include a road safety project, called "A safe way to school" in Georgia, a youth brass band project in Sierra Leone and the development of community-based health and first aid in Tuvalu.
The Empress Shôken Fund was established in 1912 by Her Majesty the Empress of Japan to support Red Cross and Red Crescent activities worldwide. Since then, it has grown thanks to contributions from the Japanese government, the Japanese Red Cross Society and the Imperial Family. The annual allocation of grants traditionally takes place on 11 April, the anniversary of the Empress' death.
The projects are selected by the Joint Commission of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Preference is given to applications from National Societies in greatest need or from those that have least benefited from the fund in previous years. A reasonable regional balance is also maintained. Despite the global financial crisis, this fund continues to support new Red Cross and Red Crescent activities to respond to the needs of the most vulnerable.
Here is a brief description of the projects supported by the Empress Shôken Fund in 2010.
Road Safety project "A safe way to school" - Georgia 17,056 CHF
The number of cars in Georgia has increased over the last three years by 90%. In addition to aggressive driving and low respect for traffic rules, this has led to a significant increase in road accide nts. The current project targets school children, in particular those aged between 8 and 12, who usually walk to school on their own. It will be implemented in nine schools in Tbilisi and is aimed at reducing the children's vulnerability on the roads by informing them and their parents about good road safety practices, by creating safe walking areas around schools, and engaging local authorities.
Youth brass band project - Sierra Leone 49,008 CHF
Young people make up the largest percentage of the membership of the Sierra Leone Red Cross Society. Following years of war during which youth have often been both perpetrators of violence and victims, they need support in order to change their attitude and behaviour and achieve social integration. The youth brass band project will provide these youngsters with a social forum, and will include the dissemination of life skills and Red Cross principles. In addition, these traditional bands will give the Sierra Leone Red Cross increased visibility, create a valuable social forum for the youth and generate income for other youth activities.
Community-Based Health and First Aid (CBHFA) in Tuvalu 45,601 CHF
Tuvalu is comprised of isolated islands that are prone to disasters. Tuvalu Red Cross activities to improve community health, prevent disease and mitigate suffering have so far focused on the capital. The implementation of the new Community-Based Health and First Aid project will allow the Red Cross to expand these programmes to the rest of the country. The Tuvalu Red Cross will recruit and train 10 local staff who will then be sent to different islands to each train 100 volunteers in first aid.
For further information, to set up interviews, please contact:
Marie-Françoise Borel, Information Officer, IFRC Tel: + 41 22 730 43 46 / + 41 79 217 33 45
Florian Westphal, Head of Media Services, ICRC Tel: + 41 22 730 22 82 / + 41 79 217 32 80
The International Federation, Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross together constitute the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. For more information, please click on www.ifrc.org and www.icrc.org


text:
Editor's Note: Second life. It can represent a chance to do over. To reset and refocus your life. To shake off the past and give yourself an opportunity to change and grow. In our series, Second Life, we took a look at how those in the small business world, out of necessity or desire, reach beyond their comfort zones to re-create themselves and their world. These stories celebrate those who saw potential in being something else or creating something that wasn't and were brave enough to take the plunge into the deep, dark waters of entrepreneurship.
BONAVISTA, N.L. — When asked about her background in baking cupcakes, Tracy Harris says it's all about seeing the customers' reactions when they taste.
"I like the reactions I get from people — when it's good!" she laughed, in her interview with The Packet.
Tracy opened her own cupcake shop, Moreish Cupcakes and Treats this past June.
"It's just something you like to hear. I like making people feel good."
It's certainly something she got from her mom. Harris says she was the inspiration for her interest in baking and cupcakes.
Tracy grew up in Mount Pearl but her parents are originally from Bonavista. She had worked as a layout editor for The Telegram newspaper for 13 years when she was laid off.
She says she's often thought about taking the plunge to do something like this but admits perhaps she was complacent.
"You know, you get in your comfort zone, and I didn't have the nerve to go out on my own."
After the layoff, she was visiting Bonavista with her dad when they thought the old train car near the T.K. Kelloway Centre would make an ideal location for a cupcake shop. While the spot wasn't practical, the idea stuck.
The next day Tracy found out the Newfoundland and Labrador Organization of Women Entrepreneurs (NLOWE) was having a meet and greet for potential entrepreneurs in the Bonavista area.
"I kind of took it as a sign. I went to the meeting and it kind of escalated from there."
She says her father was instrumental in finding, securing, and renovating the shop space on Church Street. She joked that while she was still a little apprehensive, he seemed to want it more than she did.
"As it went on and I saw it come together, I was like 'Ah, this is actually going to happen!'"
Since opening, Tracy says business has been good. She sold more than 400 cupcakes in the first two days alone.
Moreish Cupcakes is one of the many new businesses in downtown Bonavista. Having undergone a resurgence in the past few years, many young entrepreneurs have brought specialty shops to the town – not only for locals but also to cater to the many tourists who frequent the community during the summer.
On the counter in the cupcake shop — along with the many colourful treats — is a sign, which explains the "Moreish" name. Tracy's mom, Joyce, who passed away in 2015, always said 'that tastes moreish' when she indulged in a treat she particularly enjoyed.
"When we heard her say those words, we knew it meant she loved it and was going to have more," reads the sign.
Tracy's mom is the one who helped introduce her to baking. And while she isn't around to see the lovely new shop, the business is named in her honour.
Moreish Cupcakes and Treats on Church Street in Bonavista.


text: Easy recipes for making butter, yogurt, sour cream, creme fraiche, cream cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, mascarpone, and more. Directions will work well for goat as well as cow milk. Also includes 75 recipes using the products you've made breakfast goodies, appetizers and snacks, soups, salads, and sandwiches and finally main courses, side dishes, and dessert. Simple instructions that will bring out the very best in your dairy creations. Glossary, sources, and index. 2008, paperback. 214 pages.


text:
How to Create a Full-Colored CListCtrl
Desktop-as-a-Service Designed for Any Cloud ? Nutanix Frame
Environment: VC++ 5.0
Additionally, if you'd like to be able to set the color for every item inside your CListCtrl you can use this derived CListCtrl .
Using the CColorListCtrl Class
You'll see how easy it is to use this control
I would like to thank Codeguru.com and its team for Publishing this article on their site. Please do post me any modification that will improve the code.


text:
Back to Search Results |
Tire Size: P225/60R15
Serv. Desc: 95S
Sidewall: RWL
Max Load: 1521 lbs
Warranty (mi.) N/A
Availability: Call for availability
4 out of 5Submitted by Hudson in Arkansas on 2/10/2016(1989 Chevrolet C1500 Silverado (GVWR 6100))
Nice tires.
5 out of 5Submitted by john in Alabama on 1/7/2015(1997 Ford Ranger Sport 4x4)
BFGoodrich has good tires with good prices.
5 out of 5Submitted by Justin in California on 11/6/2014(2009 Chevrolet Cobalt LS)
Just purchased these tires less than 2 weeks ago, and they are GREAT! Simple and reliable is all I really needed, and they are. I don't live where it snows, so I left that portion blank.
4.85 out of 5Submitted by cody in Wisconsin on 11/3/2014(2002 Chevrolet Venture Base)
They are really good.
5 out of 5Submitted by Charlotte in Georgia on 7/9/2014(2009 Chevrolet Trucks Equinox LS)
I purchased a set of 4 Firestone Precision Touring, and I wanted a quiet and a good riding tire. They fill both of these requirements.
4.55 out of 5Submitted by john in Florida on 6/12/2014(2007 Ford Trucks F-350 Super Duty King Ranch 4x4)
5 out of 5Submitted by elizabeth in Oklahoma on 4/28/2014(1997 Ford Trucks Ranger XLT 4x2)
4.5 out of 5Submitted by Donnie in Texas on 11/19/2013(2000 Ford Trucks Ranger XLT 4x2)
I travel in Mexico all the time, so I didn't want to spend a bunch of money on tires that would just get thrashed from the bad roads. That was a year ago. I am very pleased with these BFGs. Tough little tire.
Submit Review
Middlebury, VT
Williston, VT


text:
Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program is key player in Oklahoma wildlife
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program has worked in cooperation with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation for nearly two decades to restore wildlife habitat in Oklahoma, contributing over $700,000 since 2000 alone.
At its May meeting, the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission heard a presentation from Jontie Aldrich, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Oklahoma Partners program coordinator, on the projects and progress of the Partners program in the state.
As a voluntary program designed to help private landowners restore fish and wildlife habitat on their property, the Partners program coordinates primarily with landowners and the Wildlife Department to accomplish a range of conservation goals and outreach efforts.
"In Oklahoma we have great diversity, and we have a lot of private ownership — 94-97 percent is privately owned — so obviously that's where the majority of the wildlife resource is located and that's why it's a very effective program in this state," Aldrich said.
Projects undertaken through the program had included wetland and prairie restoration, bird nesting habitat improvement, bat habitat conservation, controlling invasive plants, and more, leading to the restoration of more than 295,000 acres statewide.
Additionally, projects have also included about 125 outdoor classrooms at schools across the state to promote and increase involvement and exposure of youth to the outdoors, nature and conservation. Along similar lines, the Partners program also supports the Wildlife Department's Oklahoma Archery in the Schools Program, which introduces archery curriculum to school students across the state through classroom shooting activities and annual state shoots at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City. At the 2010 state shoot over 1,600 students from 129 of the 225 schools involved in the program participated in competitive archery events, qualifying many of those students and schools for the National Archery in the Schools national shoot in Louisville, Ky.
The program also partners with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation to release an annual wildlife habitat management calendar for landowners.
In other business, the Commission heard a presentation from Joe Hemphill, southeast region wildlife supervisor for the Wildlife Department, on the status of the Eastern wild turkey in southeast Oklahoma.
According to Hemphill, turkey numbers are down noticeably in southeast Oklahoma.
Research shows populations estimates in 2005 to be around 35,000 birds, but last year estimates had declined to around 19,000 — a 46 percent decline over four years.
"Very untimely weather patterns in reproductive months influenced declining turkey populations," Hemphill said. "It's not just in southeast Oklahoma. It's Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Missouri."
Hemphill said extreme drought from 2004-06 followed by extreme moisture in the following years through 2009 affected turkey reproduction. The decline is shown in hen to poult ratios and other survey methods used to track turkey numbers.
A quorum was not present at the meeting, and the Commission did not vote on any of the action items on the agenda.
The Commission also recognized wildlife technicians Robert Guinn and Ian Campbell, both for 25 years of service the Wildlife Department. Guinn works at Keystone and Skiatook WMAs, while Campbell works with landowners in northeast Oklahoma.
The Wildlife Conservation Commission is the eight-member governing board of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. The Wildlife Commission establishes state hunting and fishing regulations, sets policy for the Wildlife Department and indirectly oversees all state fish and wildlife conservation activities. Commission members are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Senate.
The next scheduled Commission meeting is set for 9 a.m., June 6, at the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation headquarters (auditorium), located at the southwest corner of 18th and North Lincoln, Oklahoma City.
Controlled Hunts application deadline is May 15
Oklahoma sportsmen hoping to draw out for a bull elk, whitetail deer, antelope or other controlled hunt through the program have until May 15 to submit applications over the Internet by logging on to wildlifedepartment.com.
The controlled hunts program offers a wide variety of highly desirable hunts through a random drawing. Opportunities offered through the program include hunts on Department or other government-owned or managed lands where unrestricted hunting would pose safety concerns or where overharvest might occur.
Ryan Parker of Yukon is one of those who believe it is well worth the time to apply for controlled hunts.
"I know I have benefited greatly from them," Parker said. "Both my first deer — a doe — and my first buck — an eight-point — were taken on controlled hunts held in southeast Oklahoma. I encourage everyone to seek this 'extra' tag and take advantage of the best public opportunity available to Oklahoma sportsmen."
All applicants, including lifetime license holders, must pay a $5 application fee to enter the controlled hunts drawings. The fee is paid only once per person per year regardless of the number of categories entered.
Applications are offered online through a secure process that only accepts applications once they have been filed correctly, and a print-out confirmation page is available for sportsmen to document their submitted application.
Applicants have until May 15 to apply online.
For complete application instructions, including tips on enhancing your chances of being selected as well as a full listing of available hunts for elk, deer, antelope, turkey, quail and raccoon, log on to http://www.wildlifedepartment.com .
May 15 marks longstanding squirrel season opener
Sportsmen wrap up their turkey hunting each spring just in time to prepare for the May 15 opener of squirrel season, one of Oklahoma's most generous hunting opportunities.
Squirrels are readily available on public and private lands all across the state. Hunters can harvest 10 squirrels daily and enjoy nearly nine full months (May 15-Jan. 31) of hunting opportunity.
Oklahoma is home to two species of squirrel that are legal to hunt — the eastern gray squirrel, which inhabits the eastern portion of the state, and the fox squirrel, which is found statewide in suitable habitats.
Sportsmen use several approaches to hunt squirrels, among them calling, stalking, still hunting or relying on dogs trained to hunt and locate squirrels. Both shotguns and .22 rifles are good choices for hunting small game.
One key element squirrel hunters should look for when deciding where to hunt is a squirrel food source that is producing food during the time of year that you plan to hunt. Foods attractive to squirrels include a variety of seeds, nuts, berries, insects, pinecones and buds from a variety of plants and trees. Depending on the time of year, some foods are more readily available than others. This spring, hunters should watch for mulberry trees and other fruit trees. As early fall arrives, hickory nuts will become attractive as well as other mast-producing trees. About any tract of oaks, hickory or pecan trees can be productive.
Additionally, hunters who use one of a variety of manufactured squirrel calls can locate squirrels quickly and even draw squirrels within close range, eliminating some of the guess work of deciding where to start their hunt. Hunters who use dogs generally send their dogs in the direction they wish to walk, and then follow behind while the dog locates a squirrel.
Regardless of method, hunters have no shortage of squirrel hunting opportunities. Excellent squirrel hunting can be found on a number of wildlife management areas, statewide, depending on which species sportsmen hope to find.
Hunters taking to the woods after squirrels would also be interested to know that squirrel skins and/or tails may be legally sold and have brought up to $2 for whole skins in past years.
Additionally, squirrel meat makes excellent tablefare and is popular for use in a variety of recipes. Long-celebrated squirrel meat preparations include fried with biscuits and gravy or served with dumplings, among others.
To hunt squirrels in Oklahoma, hunters need a resident or non-resident hunting license, unless exempt Resident hunters younger than age 16 can hunt squirrels without a license. Seasons on public lands may vary from statewide season dates. For full details and regulations consult the current "Oklahoma Hunting Guide" or log on to the Wildlife Department's website at http://www.wildlifedepartment.com.
Shad stocked at Lake Texoma
Personnel from the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation have made efforts to stabilize Lake Texoma threadfin shad populations that substantially declined due to a winter die-off.
"We were able to stock more than 39,000 adult threadfin into Lake Texoma this week," said Matt Mauck, south-central fisheries supervisor for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. "We expect these shad to begin spawning soon and really jumpstart the threadfin population."
The shad were stocked in numerous areas in the lake and according Mauck, they are a critical part of the food system in the lake.
"The threadfin is an important prey species for stripers and other sportfish in Lake Texoma," said Mauck. "This winter it just got too cold for the shad to survive and the population took a hard hit. They will come back on their own over time, but we felt additional stockings would speed up the recovery process."
The die-off occurred when water temperatures in the lake dropped to 40 degrees or below for several weeks this past winter and dramatically impacted threadfin populations, Mauck added. Fishing guides and anglers have had difficult time collecting bait for trips and have had to rely on collecting gizzard shad or purchasing shiners if they did not wish to fish artificial lures.
Lake Texoma is nationally recognized as a premier striped bass fishing destination. Additionally, numerous other species thrive in the lake including trophy populations of smallmouth bass and blue catfish. This resource offers countless hours of recreational opportunities but is also important economically with many businesses and fishing guides relying on the continued success of the fishery. While sport fish generally get most of the attention, they are all reliant upon available forage within the lake.
"While there are many different forage species within the lake, shad are a staple food item for many of the most sought after fish, especially stripers," Mauck said. "In fact, striped bass eat almost exclusively threadfin and gizzard shad, avoiding other food items in many cases."
While gizzard shad are a readily available staple in the lake, threadfin remain smaller than the gizzard shad and therefore can offer more forage variety to smaller predator species as well as stripers.
Similar cases of mass die-offs have been reported three other times in Lake Texoma history, the latest being in the winter of 2001. In all cases, the threadfin shad made a successful comeback between the remnant population that survived the winter and supplemental stockings from the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD).
El Reno Lake reclaims distinction for state record flathead catfish
after 11-month hiatus
For years El Reno Lake held the distinction of producing the state record flathead catfish, so when the five-year record of 72 lbs., 8 oz., was smashed in 2009 by a 76 lb. fish caught from the Poteau River, the waters of El Reno must have felt the hit. On May 11 — not even a year later — El Reno Lake answered the Poteau River's challenge when Richard Williams of El Reno landed a 78 lb., 8 oz., flathead while bass fishing with a crankbait.
"I'm not a catfisherman," Williams said, but he admitted that claiming the state record flathead catfish was still "pretty cool."
Williams' wife told personnel with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation that her husband had quit fishing and had just started up again this year. The only other fish Williams had landed that morning was a crappie until about 11 a.m. when the 51-inch fish hit his 14 lb. test line rigged with a Strike King crank bait.
Flathead catfish, channel catfish and blue catfish are readily available in the state's lakes, ponds and rivers, and they can be caught using a variety of methods, such as by rod and reel and by noodling, but also by trotlining, limblining and juglining.
Catfish grow especially active when warm weather coincides with rising water levels, and a variety of baits can be used to catch them such as worms, crayfish, cut shad and prepared baits.
For a complete list of record fish and the procedures regarding certifying state record fish, consult the current "Oklahoma Fishing Guide" or log on to wildlifedepartment.com. Anglers who believe they may have hooked a record fish must weigh the fish on an Oklahoma State Department of Agriculture certified scale, and the weight must be verified by a Wildlife Department employee.
Caption: Richard Williams caught this 78 lb., 8 oz., flathead catfish May 11
from El Reno Lake, setting a new state record for the species.
Outdoor Calendar offers full schedule of fall activities
As temperatures begin to heat up in Oklahoma, outdoor activities do as well, and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation's online Outdoor Calendar is a great tool for discovering what is happening at an outdoor destination close to home.
The Outdoor Calendar is available on the Wildlife Department's website at wildlifedepartment.com and highlights each month's events, such as the James Collins Wildlife Management Area Outdoor Adventure Day May 22. The event, to be held at the James Collins WMA south of Featherston, will include shooting sports like archery, shotguns and air rifles as well as casting, turkey calling, crafts and other activities for all ages.
Visitors to the Wildlife Department's website can use the Outdoor Calendar to find out about all kinds of outdoor activities taking place in their area — whether it is a shooting sports event, a wildlife watching tour, hunting seasons, or any other number of activities.
The Outdoor Calendar provides information about upcoming hunting seasons and events such as banquets sponsored by conservation organizations, birding tours or — later in the fall — even elk bugling tours at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge to hear the seasonal mating call of the Rocky Mountain bull elk. Sportsmen also can use the Outdoor Calendar to plan for hunting dog trials, free fishing and hunting days and more, sometimes months in advance.
Those interested in receiving the Outdoor Calendar by e-mail can also subscribe to the Department's weekly Wildlife News at wildlifedepartment.com. The weekly news release provides detailed information about events, breaking outdoor news such as state record fish and wildlife, hunting and fishing opportunities and more, in addition to the most timely information from the Outdoor Calendar.
For even more information about Oklahoma's outdoors, log on to the Department's website at wildlifedepartment.com. The site is a great source for information to help sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts get the most from Oklahoma's outdoors while benefiting wildlife at the same time.
Whether you're interested in learning more about the Wildlife Department or fish and wildlife species in Oklahoma, or you want to buy a hunting or fishing license, it can all be done with a few clicks of the mouse. In addition, the Department's annual hunting and fishing regulations also are available on the site.
Plan a summer fishing "staycation" for the family
The search is on this summer for activities that are fun for the entire family yet easy on the wallet, and officials with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation say fishing provides the answer.
The start-up costs for fishing are minimal — a rod and reel, some bait and an appropriate fishing license are all it takes — and the sport itself is easy to learn. Additionally, most Oklahomans don't have to travel far to find fishing opportunities.
Oklahoma has many fishing opportunities that provide a chance to get away for an in-state vacation or for a one-day outing with the family, and fishing can be paired up with wildlife watching, hiking or camping.
Fishing in Oklahoma normally requires a license, which can be purchased online at wildlifedepartment.com or at various sporting good vendors across the state. However, anglers fishing June 5-6 can fish without a state license during Oklahoma's free fishing days. Anglers should note that certain city permits may still apply to specific fishing areas during Free Fishing Days.
Oklahoma was the first state in the nation to offer free fishing days over 25 years ago and has since been followed by dozens of other states that have established similar opportunities.
Free Fishing Days offer one way that families can enjoy an inexpensive day on the water by fishing at lakes and ponds across the state or at one of Oklahoma's year-round designated trout waters. Anglers fishing Lake Texoma should be aware that Free Fishing Days applies for all of the lake on June 5 but only on Oklahoma portions of the lake on June 6.
Families who would like to learn more about fishing together can attend one of several fishing clinics held throughout the summer as part of the Wildlife Department's Aquatic Resource Education Program. Clinics are held at the Arcadia Conservation Education Area at Lake Arcadia as well as other locations in the Oklahoma City and Tulsa areas. Full clinic schedules will be posted online at wildlifedepartment.com as dates approach.
The Wildlife Department's Close to Home Fishing program is another option that offers fishing opportunities in or near urban areas. To learn more or to find Close to Home Fishing areas or other angling opportunities, log on to wildlifedepartment.com or consult the current "Oklahoma Fishing Guide," available at sporting goods stores or anywhere fishing licenses are sold. These sources also include tips for catching and identifying the various species of Oklahoma fish, regulations, fish recipes and more. Fishing licenses also are available for purchase at wildlifedepartment.com.
Chickasha 5th-grader claims second consecutive national archery championship
The second consecutive championship claimed by Chickasha 5th-grader Meredith Noland at the National Archery in the Schools National Tournament May 7-8 is just one indicator that Oklahoma students are building a fierce legacy in archery competition at both state and national levels.
Noland's score of 288 out of 300 put her in first place in the 5th-grade girls category, ahead of 331 other girls her age. Additionally, she tied for the highest score among over 1,000 girls ranging from 4th through 6th grade.
"Oklahoma students had a memorable experience at the national tournament," said Justin Marschall, Oklahoma National Archery in the Schools coordinator for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. "They represented Oklahoma well; Chickasha even won the Spirit award, which is given to the school demonstrating exemplary sportsmanship. The Wildlife Department congratulates Meredith and all the other Oklahoma students who went to the national tournament to represent Oklahoma."
Oklahoma has proven to be a strong presence at the national tournament, claiming two national championships last year and multiple high standings among students from all over the nation. Last year, Noland took the 4th-grade girls national championship.
At this year's national tournament, Oklahoma again had several high scores among the near 8,000 students present from across the country. In addition to Noland's win, notable finishes include the following:
4th Grade Girls:
4th place - Kody Tolliver, Zaneis (Wilson); scored 266 points out of 300.
7th place - Kassidy Perkins, Zaneis (Wilson); scored 262 points out of 300.
There were 155 4th-grade girl shooters.
5th Grade Boys:
10th place - Clayton Mosley, Chickasha; scored 277 points out of 300.
There were 500 5th-grade boy shooters.
6th Grade Girls:
7th place - Haylie Douglas, Chickasha; scored 284 points out of 300.
9th place - Courtney Grigg, Chickasha; scored 282 points out of 300.
There were 564 6th-grade girls shooters.
High School Boys (9th-12th Grade):
11th place - Cole Thompson, 11th grade, Keys (Park Hill); scored 292 points out of 300.
There were 1,133 high school boy shooters.
Middle School Girls (7th & 8th Grade):
11th place - Michelle Holiman, 7th grade, Maryetta Jr. High (Stilwell); scored 283 points out of 300, with 17 bullseyes.
13th place - Cheyenne Keith, 7th grade, Greenville, (Marietta); scored 283 points out of 300, with 15 bullseyes.
There were 812 middle school girl shooters.
Middle School Boys (7th & 8th Grade):
6th place - Will Gibson, 8th grade, Chandler; scored 291 points out of 300.
11th place -, Brydon Edmonds, 8th grade, Chickasha Middle school; scored 289 points out of 300.
There were 1,355 middle school boy shooters.
Students involved in the program hone their concentration skills by shooting at targets from 10 and 15 meters, attempting to place their arrows into a three-inch diameter bullseye for points. Students of all ages, sizes and athletic abilities can compete at the same level for high standings and personal success.
Oklahoma students qualified for the national competition based on their individual and team scores from the Oklahoma National Archery in the Schools State Shoot held in March at the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City. More than 1,600 students from 129 schools across the state gathered at the Cox Convention Center for the state shoot to wrap up a season of archery practice and competition at their respective schools and to determine qualifiers for the national shoot.
Oklahoma is in its sixth year of participation in the Oklahoma National Archery in the Schools Program, and more than 225 schools are currently participating.
The Oklahoma National Archery in the Schools Program, administered by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, is part of a national organization that introduces students to the sport of archery, in which students of all athletic abilities can learn and excel. The Archery in the Schools curriculum is designed for 4th-12th graders and covers archery history, safety, techniques, equipment, mental concentration and self-improvement.
Teachers interested in learning more about the OAIS program or starting the program at their school should contact Marschall at (405) 522-1857
For more information on the Oklahoma National Archery in the Schools program, log on to wildlifedepartment.com.
Photo Caption: Chickasha 5th-grader Meredith Noland took her second consecutive championship at the National Archery in the Schools National Tournament May 7-8. Her score of 288 out of 300 put her in first place in the 5th-grade girls category, ahead of 331 other female shooters her age.
Young wildlife better left alone
This time of year offers the chance to see newborn wildlife in Oklahoma, and while outdoor enthusiasts may be inclined to try to help young critters that appear to be abandoned, biologists say they are better left alone.
"If you find newborn wildlife while in your yard or in the woods that appears to be alone, chances are an adult animal is nearby and is simply waiting for you to move along so they can take care of their young," said Melynda Hickman, wildlife diversity biologist for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. "It is common for fawns to be left in a safe place while does feed nearby, and interfering with that always causes more harm than good. It's also best to leave birds, young squirrels and other wildlife alone as well."
In Oklahoma, most fawns are born in May and June and start becoming visible in mid to late June.
Young birds and squirrels can be blown out of their nests during storms as well, and even though they may appear to be alone and distressed or in need of help, an adult animal will often find and care for them.
Biologists say it can actually be more stressful on young wildlife if people try to help.
"It's good when well-meaning sportsmen and outdoor enthusiasts want to help, but sometimes the best help we can offer young wildlife is to leave them alone and let nature run its course," Hickman said.
In most cases, it also is illegal to pick up wildlife. Log on to http://www.wildlifedepartment.com/ for more information about wildlife conservation in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma's Free Fishing Days slated
Anglers can fish for free June 5-6 during Oklahoma's Free Fishing Days, when people can fish without state fishing licenses, which are normally required of most anglers.
"Oklahoma's Free Fishing Days provide a great opportunity for our veteran anglers to take someone fishing who has never been before, since they don't have to buy a license or permit to go," said Damon Springer, Aquatic Resource Education coordinator for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation. "Anglers have an opportunity to introduce someone to the sport who otherwise wouldn't know what fun they are missing."
Families in Oklahoma City wanting to get in on the free fishing fun can attend Family Fishing Day at Edwards Park Pond June 5, where a free fishing clinic will be taught by volunteers through the Wildlife Department and the Oklahoma City Parks and Recreation Department. Participants should bring their own fishing equipment and bait, and prizes will be awarded to anglers who land specially-tagged fish that have been stocked in the lake for the event. To pre-register, call (405) 755-4014.
Oklahoma offers fishing in lakes and rivers, but also in urban waters designated by the Wildlife Department as "Close to Home Fishing" locations. Anglers who don't know where to start can turn to the Wildlife Department's weekly state fishing report to find just the right place to go. Every week the fishing report provides a listing of lakes and the current state of angling success at that location. The reports are compiled by Wildlife Department employees and volunteers and cover lakes and waters throughout every region in the state. Information such as lake levels, water temperatures, species being caught, locations of best angling activity and successful baits is included in the reports. Anglers can receive the fishing report by subscribing to the Department's weekly news release at http://www.wildlifedepartment.com .
Although state fishing licenses are not required during Free Fishing Days, anglers should note that certain city permits may still apply to specific fishing areas.
Anglers fishing Lake Texoma should be aware that Free Fishing Days applies for all of the lake on June 5 but only on Oklahoma portions of the lake on June 6.
Oklahoma was the first state in the nation to offer free fishing days over 25 years ago and has since been followed by dozens of other states that have established similar days.
Bat fungus documented in Oklahoma
Laboratory tests performed at the U. S. Geological Survey National Health Center in Madison Wisconsin have demonstrated that a Cave Myotis (Myotis velifer) bat collected alive on May 3, 2010 from a cave in northwest Oklahoma has tested positive for the fungus Geomyces destructans. This fungus is associated with a condition known as "White Nose Syndrome" which appears to be specific to some species of hibernating bats and was first observed in four caves in New York during the winter of 2006.
Bats with White Nose Syndrome have noticeable white fungus growing on their skin, particularly on their noses and other bare surfaces including their wings. White Nose Syndrome frequently results in the death of the infected bats. Biologists continue to study the bat specimens to determine if all bats that come into contact with the fungus will develop the disease. There have been no reported human illnesses attributed to the fungus or to White Nose Syndrome, and there is no evidence to suggest that the syndrome is harmful to organisms other than bats.
Although genetic tests indicate that the bat was harboring the fungus, the pattern of infection was not consistent with the White Nose Syndrome infection observed in bats in the eastern United States. There also has not been a mortality event attributable to White Nose Syndrome in Oklahoma to date. Both the ODWC and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) are concerned about the potential development of White Nose Syndrome in Oklahoma in the near future. The ODWC and FWS's Oklahoma Ecological Services Field Office anticipate working in partnership with other federal and state agencies, researchers and conservation partners to monitor other Oklahoma caves and bat populations for the fungus and signs of WNS.
This finding is the first record of the fungus in Oklahoma and represents the most western report to date. The next closest known report of the fungus occurred in eastern Missouri earlier this year. To date, all of the White Nose Syndrome cases have been east of the Mississippi River. This finding also represents the first discovery of the fungus in a bat species that does not occur in the eastern United States. The range of the Cave Myotis extends from western Oklahoma and Texas west and south into New Mexico, Arizona, California and Mexico.
The potential impact of White Nose Syndrome is considered to be significant due to the highly beneficial ecological and economic roles played by bats. Bats consume mosquitoes, moths and other night-flying insects including species that cause extensive forest and agricultural damage. Additionally, bat guano provides essential nutrients to many otherwise nutrient-limited cave environments where other animals live.
Currently, White Nose Syndrome is believed to be transmitted primarily through bat-to-bat contact. However, it is possible that the fungus could be transmitted by humans who enter caves and carry the fungus on their shoes, gear and clothing. Within the past four years, White Nose Syndrome has been documented in 13 eastern states and two Canadian provinces.
For more information about White Nose Syndrome, including information about ongoing research, recommended decontamination procedures for caving gear and clothing, and answers to frequently asked questions, please visit the Service's White Nose Syndrome national website at http://www.fws.gov/northeast/white_nose.html
Selman Bat Watch
registration available June 1
Oklahomans looking to attend a Selman Bat Watch this summer can download a registration form beginning June 1 at wildlifedepartment.com.
The bat watches, hosted by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, will be held the last four weekends in July at the Selman Bat Cave WMA near Freedom. The nightly exodus of at least a million bats attracts visitors to where the state's only Mexican free-tailed bat viewing occurs. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children (12 & under).
"Pre-registration is different this year with attendees being randomly drawn from mailed in registration forms," said Melynda Hickman, Wildlife Diversity biologist for the Wildlife Department. "Given the popularity of this event, the Department is using this approach to streamline its registration process. The specified mail-in registration period begins June 1 and ends June 7."
The drawing will be held June 10. To pre-register, log on to wildlifedepartment.com beginning June 1 and print off a registration form, then mail the completed form to the Wildlife Department at Bat Watch Program, P.O. Box 53465 Oklahoma City, OK 73152. Be sure to carefully read the step-by-step instructions for completing the registration form.
Registration is by mail only and must be postmarked no later than June 7 to be included in the drawing. More information and details about the Selman Bat Watch can be found online at wildlifedepartment.com. Successful registrants will receive a confirmation packet by mail.
"This is the only event of its kind here in the state," Hickman said.
The Wildlife Department purchased the area around the bat cave in 1996 because of its ecological importance to the Mexican free-tailed bat. According to Hickman, the cave is important because it is one of only five major sites in Oklahoma that is used by females to raise their young.
Hickman says the bats provide a great service: free pest control. The bats spend daylight hours inside the cave. But most of the action is after sunset.
"Studies tell us that the bats at Selman Bat Cave eat about 10 tons (20,000 pounds) of insects, moths and beetles every night," Hickman said.
The bats' evening emergence is the highlight of a Bat Watch, but there's more to the evening than simply watching bats. Buses take visitors to the Selman Bat Cave Wildlife Management Area, usually closed to the public, where they learn facts about bats and the prairie community. There is also an optional nature hike before the bats emerge. On Friday and Saturday evenings, staff and telescopes from the University of Central Oklahoma's Selman Living Laboratory will be at the observatory to assist stargazers.
Additionally the Bat Watches benefit the local economy by drawing tourists from a multi-state region into Oklahoma. Hickman said Oklahomans enjoy a rare opportunity to get close to wild bats and to share their importance to the environment and the economy.
The bat watches are limited to 75 people each night, and registration is required. For more information, call (405) 424-0099 or log on to wildlifedepartment.com.
'Tis the season for ANS awareness
In the summer of 2009, anglers came across a non-native crustacean — a Harris mud crab — while fishing on the Oklahoma side of Lake Texoma. While the species is only slightly larger than a dime and its direct impact on Oklahoma's fisheries is unknown, it is just one of several known aquatic nuisance species that can inflict major economic and ecological problems on waters all across the state.
According to Curtis Tackett, aquatic nuisance species biologist for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, aquatic nuisance species, or ANS, are a threat because of their potential to disrupt the balance of state fisheries. Since they are invasive and often non-native, they may have few predators, reproduce and spread rapidly, and compete with native species for available forage and habitat. Aquatic nuisance species in Oklahoma include species such as zebra mussels, didymo, white perch, golden alga, and hydrilla, among others.
"An ANS can be any organism that threatens our native waters, not just fish or plants," Tackett said. "They are often unknowingly transported by man — usually boaters and anglers — to a new location, where they thrive and cause problems for native habitat or native aquatic species."
Oklahoma's most widespread ANS is the zebra mussel. Though not much bigger than a thumbnail, these striped aquatic invaders can live for several days out of water and can be dispersed overland by boats pulled on trailers, though their main method of spread is by free-floating larvae. Zebra mussels can multiply rapidly to the point of clogging water treatment plant intake pipes, fouling boat bottoms and possibly depleting food sources relied on by fish and other aquatic species.
Another ANS recently discovered in Oklahoma where it was not formerly known is Didymosphenia geminata, or "didymo" in the Lower Mountain Fork River below Broken Bow Lake. The invasive algae thrives in low-nutrient, cold flowing streams that are rich in oxygen. Though it starts out as small tufted colonies, it can grow into dense, thick mats that cover large portions of a streambed, outcompeting native algae relied upon by native insects.
"That may not sound like a problem, except that those insects provide an important source of food for trout in the Lower Mountain Fork River," Tackett said.
Tackett said that in some cases, the reduction of available food sources for trout because of competition from invasive species like didymo can result in smaller fish. Additionally, didymo can clog water pipes and other flow structures as well as become a nuisance to anglers because of how easily it can be snagged by a fish hook.
To stop the spread of aquatic nuisance species and their possible economic and environmental consequences, the Wildlife Department depends on anglers' support and help.
According to Tackett, anglers can help prevent further spread of ANS, and it just takes a little bit of effort.
"But that effort can go a long way," Tackett said.
Tackett offers the following measures to prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species:
* Drain the bilge water, live wells and bait buckets before leaving.
* Inspect the boat and trailer immediately upon leaving the water.
* Scrape off any zebra mussels or aquatic vegetation found. Do not return them to the water.
* Wash boat parts and accessories that contact the water using hot water (at least 140 degrees F.), or spray with high-pressure water.
* If possible, dry the boat and trailer for at least a week before entering another waterway.
* Before leaving a river or stream, remove all clumps of algae and look for hidden fragments.
* Soak and scrub all gear for at least one minute in a two percent bleach solution, or five percent salt solution, or simply use hot water and dishwashing soap.
* If cleaning is not practical, then wait at least 48 hours before contact with another water body after equipment has dried.
* Consider keeping two sets of wading boots, and alternate their use between cleaning and drying.
* Avoid using felt-soled waders.
* Avoid wading through colonies of the algae. Breaking up the material could cause future colonies and blooms to occur further downstream.
Free family fishing clinics slated throughout summer
"Give a kid a fish and feed him for a day."
The second half of that saying goes something like, "Teach a kid to fish and feed him for life." The old adage explains in just a few words what so many anglers already know — that fishing is a lifelong hobby and practical skill, but also that fishing can become a foundation for both memories and appreciation for the natural world.
Through the Wildlife Department's Aquatic Resources Education Program (AREP), kids and adults can choose from courses held near urban areas throughout the state this summer to learn about fishing and try their own hand at catching a fish.
Oklahoma has thousands of miles of shoreline along its many lakes, rivers, streams and ponds, and many of them are close to urban areas and open to the public for angling. The AREP program is designed to help people get a start in the sport so they can take advantage of the many fishing opportunities available to them.
According to Damon Springer, aquatic education coordinator for the Wildlife Department, the free clinics will benefit families trying to learn about the sport as well as those looking for easy and affordable opportunities to spend time with family.
The Aquatic Resource Education Program will hold classes through August, many of which will be held at the Wildlife Department's Arcadia Conservation Education Area in Edmond or the Zebco Pond in Tulsa. Others will be held at local ponds in Oklahoma City and in Jenks. A full course listing is available on the Wildlife Department's Web site at wildlifedepartment.com. Pre-registration for each course is required and can be done by calling the phone number listed with each course.
The Aquatic Resources Education Program is the Department's means to promote the sport of fishing and aquatic resource awareness as well as a way to give youth, regardless of family situation, an opportunity to learn about Oklahoma's aquatic environments and how to fish.
Developed in 1988, the program's objectives are to increase the understanding, appreciation, and awareness of Oklahoma's aquatic resources; facilitate the learning of angling skills, outdoor ethics, and sport fishing opportunities in the state; enhance urban fishing opportunities; develop adult fishing clinics and provide information on specialized fishing techniques.
These events — usually lasting a few hours — present information on such topics as fish identification, knot-tying, fish cleaning and cooking, fishing tackle selection and use, water safety, outdoor ethics and more.
Most clinics, including Lake Arcadia family fishing clinics, include fishing at a nearby pond or lake.
According to Springer, the fishing clinics will benefit youth as well as play an important role of the future of Oklahoma's outdoor heritage.
For more information about the Aquatic Resources Education Program, log on to the Department's Web site at wildlifedepartment.com.
Handling live fish with care ensures safe release to swim again
Black bass are often released quickly after being caught by anglers, sometimes only out of the water long enough for a moment of admiration and a photograph.
Releasing black bass back into the water to continue growing and reproducing can be a smart choice, but there are a few steps that can help ensure black bass and other sport fish are released unscathed by the few minutes it spends in an angler's possession. With a little effort, anglers who choose to release fish can know that their catch was not released in vain, whether they are tournament anglers who collect large catches of fish, or recreational anglers who enjoy sharing nature with their families.
One of the most important steps to ensuring the survival of caught and released fish is the way the fish is lifted from the water and held.
Gene Gilliland, central region fisheries supervisor for the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, advises anglers to carefully avoid holding larger bass by the lower jaw in a vertical position — a hold often seen in photographs — as this can dislocate or even break the fish's jaw, preventing it from eating and likely resulting in the death of the fish. Gilliland also advises anglers to wet their hands before handling a fish with bare hands.
Additionally, the following tips are suggested for handling larger bass that will be released:
* Using your dominant hand, grip the fish with your thumb inside the mouth and your fingers locked on the outside of the mouth.
* Support the back end of the fish with your opposite hand placed beneath the fish just forward of the tail.
* Lift the fish out of the water in a horizontal position using both hands for support.
* Handle the fish only when putting it into a livewell or holding tank. Avoid keeping the fish out of water or habitually removing it from the water for photographs. A good rule of thumb is to avoid keeping a fish out of water longer than you can hold your own breath.
When care is taken to preserve the life of a fish planned for release, anglers can be certain their good intentions will be followed by continued productivity of their favorite fishing holes and angling hot spots.
Keeping one's catch of fresh fish is also popular among Oklahoma anglers and can result in a delicious meal with family and friends in addition to reliving the memory of the catch. Fish battered in cornmeal and preferred seasoning are considered delicious when pan-fried. Other preparation methods include broiling until flaky, or cooked by any method of choice and served with cole slaw and hot sauce in a tortilla for a delicious "fish taco."
When keeping fish for the freezer, care should be taken to avoid "freezer burn" which occurs when oxygen is allowed to contact the meat directly in freezing conditions. It can be avoided by submerging fish in water before freezing or by using a vacuum sealer — available at sporting goods stores and other locations — to remove air from the container that stores the fish for freezing.
For more information about fishing in Oklahoma, log on to wildlifedepartment.com.


text:
NM Tech Scientists Study Remote Sensing of Evapotranspiration in Mountain Areas, Sept. 13, 2006
by George Zamora
Photo, right: The New Mexico Tech scintollometer research team, pictured from left to right, Tech student Kim Bandy, Tech hydrology professor Jan Hendrickx, Tech student Whitney Defoor, Tech student Jesus Gomez, and Tech post-doc researcher Jan Kleissl.
SOCORRO, Sept. 13, 2006 – Over the course of the last two decades, hydrologists and other scientists have used emerging technologies such as satellite optical remote sensing to develop and refine several operational evapotranspiration (ET) algorithms that are now routinely used in hydrological studies in New Mexico and worldwide.
However, these remote sensing based algorithms have encountered significant difficulties when used by hydrologists or other water resources professionals to estimate evapotranspiration in mountainous regions because of variability in mountain meteorology, soils, and topography.
In an effort to improve the application of remote sensing algorithms to mountainous terrains, the U.S. Geological Survey recently awarded a research grant to fund a field study in New Mexico, titled "Validation, Calibration, and Improvement of Remote Sensing ET Algorithms in Mountainous Regions." The multi-year research project is spearheaded by New Mexico Tech hydrology professor Jan Hendrickx, along with Tech post-doctoral researcher Jan Kleissl.
"Up until now, most of the work on evapotranspiration and water usage in New Mexico and elsewhere has focused on riparian areas and agricultural fields, which are relatively flat," says Hendrickx.
"What we haven't seen before is an extensive study in mountainous areas where most of the water that makes it down to the flat valley floors comes from," he adds. "We've been focusing on the demand side, but not the supply side of water resources in New Mexico."
Mountains cover approximately 25 percent of world's land area, accommodate 26 percent of the world's population, and generate about 32 percent of surface runoff on a global basis.
However, in New Mexico and other semi-arid mountainous regions, runoff from mountains can represent as much as 90 percent of the total surface runoff into lower-lying basins such as the Rio Grande or Colorado River.
As part of their study, Hendrickx and Kleissl will set up various measuring and recording stations at field sites located atop the Magdalena Mountains and within the Valles Caldera National Park in New Mexico.
The New Mexico Tech hydrologists are using scintillometers — novel scientific instruments that measure atmospheric optical disturbances over distances of up to three miles — to gauge turbulent heat fluxes at mountainous sites. Additional meteorological measurements taken, such as wind speed and direction, surface and air temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure, allow them to examine the determinants of ET in mountainous terrains, thus providing clues to improving ET algorithms there.
In addition, other contributing factors, such as slope, topography, vegetation, solar radiation, and snow accumulation, are being considered by the scientists as they attempt to improve remote sensing ET algorithms.
"Of course, the mountainous terrain itself also contributes to complexities encountered in this study," says Kleissl. "Driving to and from these field sites to set up stations and obtain measurements can be a difficult challenge, so accessibility becomes a big issue.
"It's much easier to conduct these types of studies in alfalfa or corn fields, but my undergraduate and graduate research assistants and I are ready to take on the mountains," he adds.
"In semi-arid regions, such as New Mexico and the rest of the Southwestern United States, evapotranspiration represents the greatest flux of water lost from agricultural fields, riparian areas, forests, rangelands, lakes, and rivers," Hendrickx states. "It goes up into the atmosphere, and it's gone.
"Therefore, improving ET estimates in the mountains is crucial for determining the regional water balance, not only in New Mexico and the surrounding region, but also in similar mountainous areas worldwide," Hendrickx points out.
Several government agencies besides the USGS have already expressed interest in using improved ET algorithms in their water resources planning, including the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the Interstate Stream Commission, the New Mexico Office of the State Engineer, and the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District.
"Our goal is not so much to develop new models or algorithms for how evapotranspiration occurs in mountains as it is to improve current ET algorithms by using an integrated approach that considers the particular features of mountains," Kleissl says. "These improved ET algorithms will also still be able to be used in flat areas as well."
In addition to the USGS funding, supplemental support for the ongoing research project currently is being provided by the Water Resources Research Institute, New Mexico Tech, and a National Science Foundation funded program—the Experimental Program to Stimulate Cooperative Research (EPSCoR).