Memorial Day ushered in summer and it's ridiculous temperatures. By back features the color of a medium cooked sirloin, pink and leathery.
Nevertheless, I started out Friday night by eating Boston Butt that I smoked on Friday. It would have received a minimum of 2 Michelin stars...
Saturday, the day was spent on the Duck Ship Yellow Dog, out and about on the Middle Albemarle. Oh, and ribs were eaten on this day. We also went on a Bear Safari, again. This time, success was great, as I took a different approach. In the past, the Spot and Stalk (more like the speed and brake) was the preferred method of your's truly, yet this time, I decided to play the waiting game. I made certain to approach the feeding fields early enough to catch the bruins slipping out of the pocosin...and slip they did. The evening started with a couple of two year old bears, running and playing in the wheat. Too gain a better a look, my lady friend and I popped up through the sunroof with the spotting scope. At approximately the same minute, "Big Bertha", as Callie would call it, appeared, all 500 pounds. Then, in honor of the hit television show "Swamp People", we were awarded with a tree shaker - another gigantic bear, every bit of 600 lbs, tiny ears and round belly and all, miled up and down the canal shredding trees, evidently showcasing it's strength and stature as the "Top Dog", err Bear of the pocosin. Very Impressive.
Sunday was kind of a disappointment, as the clouds rolled in, yet the boating excursion was still fun. I also took time to prepare my schedules for this week...more on that in a sec.
Yesterday, tired of the boat ride, I took a trip to Virginia's Eastern Shore...just a short little day trip across the Chesapeake for some beach goin', animal lookin', and decoy shoppin'. I had only been to the Eastern Shore in the wintertime, when it's marshes were jammed to the hilt with migratory birds. In a place steeped in history and tradition, it's easy to get a bit carried away. We also elevted to hike to the Assateague Light. 'Twas a short walk, but it was certainly filled with adventure. Mosquitoes immediately swarmed. Callie, with the camera in tow, was warned to please prepare the camera for battle as the very rare Delmarva Fox squirrel was destined to cross out paths. We had only heard of this squirrel. Few people will ever see one, as their are probably only a thousand or so that are living and breathing. Lo and behold, the squirrel does appear, in the middle of our mosquito-bombarding pirouettes. A few pictures were snapped as the squirrel scurried for cover in the pines. Quite a site.
Anyway, we walked the streets of Chincoteague, perusing the uniques and antiques. I was able to lay my hands on decoys made by Madison Mitchell, Ira Hudson, and Chincoteague carver, Cigar Daisey.
On to this week - Today and tomorrow, Tyrrell Elementary will be out to celebrate their End of Grade test success. The pool and gamefields will be their party platter, and our program staff will cater the fun.
Jackson Middle School comes in for some Rec and Ecology...they'll be here on Wednesday and head out Friday...then they are on to help with the clean-up in tornado-struck Bertie County...
Summer Camp Staff training starts next week...then it's on.
Enjoy the day...
May 31, 2011
May 26, 2011
Safe Boating Tips!
Memorial Day and its preceding weekend are rapidly approaching. I like Memorial Day, yet the trips to the boat ramp can be troublesome, ridiculous, and even dramatic.
Most boaters use their boats three times per year...Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day. For some reason, those boaters are the ones that launch immediately before I do. The problem with using a boat so little is:
(1) First of all, the boater can't effectively back a trailer - they'll put have the trailer in the ramp and the other half on top of the dock.
(2) Secondly, the boat battery is dead, which holds up progress even more.
(3) Thirdly, the boaters always having a crying baby.
(4) Fourthly, The gas is the boat is "bad", because it has sat up so long.
(5) Novice Boaters then realize that once the gas is bad, that they have also failed to put the plug in the boat.
(6) Obscenities generally follow, regarding the location of the plug or plug hole.
(7) As this is unfolding, my offers to assist are disregarded, as the boater fears revocation of their man-card.
(8) Their stubbornness results in my hysterical bouts of laughter, which is my ultimate undoing, as I miss my opportunity to launch, and another novice boater, who does not understand ramp ethics, snatches my place in line.
Nevertheless, if you are an experienced boater, you can do the following things to avoid such trouble on Holiday weekends...
(1) Avoid boating all together. Cook a pig, instead.
(2) Find a remote ramp or slide that's not so glamorous.
If you are a novice boater and are insistent on making friends and not enemies at the boat ramp, consider these moves:
(1) CHARGE YOUR BOAT BATTERY THE NIGHT BEFORE!
(2) Use a fuel additive to keep your gas stabilized...all the time.
(3) Locate the plug before you leave your abode. Before pulling out of the driveway, insert the public in the plug hole. Don't confuse the plug hole with the live well hole, either.
(4) Have plenty of ropes and employ family members to hold the boat once the trailer is in the water, but before you unhook the winch straps.
Other great and legal ideas:
(1) PFD's for every soul on board. Have a throwable PFD, too.
(2) If skiing or wake boarding or any of that other incredibly hard mess, always have a spotter to watch your skier.
(3) Do not drink and boat, PLEASE! Most boaters do not know the rules of the water as it is. Mixing alcohol with ignorance is usually an award-winning recipe for disaster and doom.
(4) Do drink lots of water and pack plenty of healthy snacks...especially if you have young people aboard your craft.
(5) If you must be boater certified, ensure that you are before driving a boat or personal watercraft...Ole Green Jeans will be out. And they write tickets to save lives. I'm glad they do it. Know law abiding citizen has ever gotten a ticket. When breaking laws, your odds will increase.
(7) Have a horn or whistle, and a fire extinguisher...make sure that all of your nav lights work, too.
Easy rules for an easy day.
Enjoy the day...
Most boaters use their boats three times per year...Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day. For some reason, those boaters are the ones that launch immediately before I do. The problem with using a boat so little is:
(1) First of all, the boater can't effectively back a trailer - they'll put have the trailer in the ramp and the other half on top of the dock.
(2) Secondly, the boat battery is dead, which holds up progress even more.
(3) Thirdly, the boaters always having a crying baby.
(4) Fourthly, The gas is the boat is "bad", because it has sat up so long.
(5) Novice Boaters then realize that once the gas is bad, that they have also failed to put the plug in the boat.
(6) Obscenities generally follow, regarding the location of the plug or plug hole.
(7) As this is unfolding, my offers to assist are disregarded, as the boater fears revocation of their man-card.
(8) Their stubbornness results in my hysterical bouts of laughter, which is my ultimate undoing, as I miss my opportunity to launch, and another novice boater, who does not understand ramp ethics, snatches my place in line.
Nevertheless, if you are an experienced boater, you can do the following things to avoid such trouble on Holiday weekends...
(1) Avoid boating all together. Cook a pig, instead.
(2) Find a remote ramp or slide that's not so glamorous.
If you are a novice boater and are insistent on making friends and not enemies at the boat ramp, consider these moves:
(1) CHARGE YOUR BOAT BATTERY THE NIGHT BEFORE!
(2) Use a fuel additive to keep your gas stabilized...all the time.
(3) Locate the plug before you leave your abode. Before pulling out of the driveway, insert the public in the plug hole. Don't confuse the plug hole with the live well hole, either.
(4) Have plenty of ropes and employ family members to hold the boat once the trailer is in the water, but before you unhook the winch straps.
Other great and legal ideas:
(1) PFD's for every soul on board. Have a throwable PFD, too.
(2) If skiing or wake boarding or any of that other incredibly hard mess, always have a spotter to watch your skier.
(3) Do not drink and boat, PLEASE! Most boaters do not know the rules of the water as it is. Mixing alcohol with ignorance is usually an award-winning recipe for disaster and doom.
(4) Do drink lots of water and pack plenty of healthy snacks...especially if you have young people aboard your craft.
(5) If you must be boater certified, ensure that you are before driving a boat or personal watercraft...Ole Green Jeans will be out. And they write tickets to save lives. I'm glad they do it. Know law abiding citizen has ever gotten a ticket. When breaking laws, your odds will increase.
(7) Have a horn or whistle, and a fire extinguisher...make sure that all of your nav lights work, too.
Easy rules for an easy day.
Enjoy the day...
May 25, 2011
More Bear Safari
It's one of my favorite times of year (other than waterfowl season)...summer is looming, and bears are, too. This time of year, as the wheat and mosquito population jumps, the opportunity to see a giant black bear is plentiful. Last week, I took the programmites on a dusky and dusty sojourn to neighboring fields to see bears...and see them we did. We saw 6, including 1 at about 20 feet. Pretty amazing how small they look when they are still.
Nevertheless, we went on Bear Safari 2.0 last night. Unfortunately, we only saw 3. One was only about 100 pounds, but one might have been the biggest I have seen on months. The ladies were a little stifled when I wanted to approach closer. The only thing about approaching a bear is to be very careful. Bears can run about 35 miles per hour...even the hefty ones. I run about 20 miles per hour when terrified. Nevertheless, I would never approach a bear to within 100 yards. Generally, the bears are the ones that are terrified. I would hate to get closer, because I'm afraid that the bears would lose their overwhelming fear of humans. And since I would probably only be a light meal, it's best I stay distant. Nevertheless, my shrieking would impede the bears ability from pleasantly enjoying the meal.
Yellow flies are out. I killed three last night. Nobody has a fix for them, yet I do believe I have found something that works. If you are lucky enough to catch and kill one before it removes a square inch of your flesh, lightly plant the bug in the middle of your head. I think it sends a message to the others. They put off a pheromone that says stay away when they meet their maker...well, that's what I am going with...
Camp registrations are beginning to pick up...just as the bear sightings. Our specialty camps are lagging a bit, yet they'll pick up as school lets out.
This week, we are hosting a couple of End of Grade test parties...same for next week, as well as an environmental education camp for a middle school from near Greensboro. Summer leadership staff begin arriving TODAY...
Enjoy the day...
Nevertheless, we went on Bear Safari 2.0 last night. Unfortunately, we only saw 3. One was only about 100 pounds, but one might have been the biggest I have seen on months. The ladies were a little stifled when I wanted to approach closer. The only thing about approaching a bear is to be very careful. Bears can run about 35 miles per hour...even the hefty ones. I run about 20 miles per hour when terrified. Nevertheless, I would never approach a bear to within 100 yards. Generally, the bears are the ones that are terrified. I would hate to get closer, because I'm afraid that the bears would lose their overwhelming fear of humans. And since I would probably only be a light meal, it's best I stay distant. Nevertheless, my shrieking would impede the bears ability from pleasantly enjoying the meal.
Yellow flies are out. I killed three last night. Nobody has a fix for them, yet I do believe I have found something that works. If you are lucky enough to catch and kill one before it removes a square inch of your flesh, lightly plant the bug in the middle of your head. I think it sends a message to the others. They put off a pheromone that says stay away when they meet their maker...well, that's what I am going with...
Camp registrations are beginning to pick up...just as the bear sightings. Our specialty camps are lagging a bit, yet they'll pick up as school lets out.
This week, we are hosting a couple of End of Grade test parties...same for next week, as well as an environmental education camp for a middle school from near Greensboro. Summer leadership staff begin arriving TODAY...
Enjoy the day...
May 24, 2011
Good for animals and folks...
I know it's been a bit since the last blog...but we have been busy with LeaderShape - which is one of the greatest groups to visit us, year in and year out...
LeaderShape went well. Usually I help to facilitate with the teambuilding, which is unfortunate. Rachel, blonde-haired programmite learned exactly why: Generally, organizations want to put products out that are very similar, such as McDonalds (a big mac tastes the same everywhere, right?). the Program Staff here are all very similar in their facilitation skills, too...especially since they are under my tutelage. So, yep, they are pretty similar, until I jump in to the ring. I'm not saying I'm the greatest ever, but I'm certainly the best alive, as Rachel found out. Our "competition" between groups was a runaway...still, she, AJ, and Mea are very, very good at it...I'm just a notch or ten better.
Anyway, on to the title...today and everyday this week, the Forestry Commission is enacting it's fuel mitigation program on our facility. Mitigation basically means to recover. The fuel that they are recovering comes in the form of fallen logs and small standing saplings that are found throughout our facility. As many of you know, three years ago, the Evans Road wildfire caused lots of damage to an important ecosystem and caused air quality problems for much of us north of the flame. This year, the Dare County fire is also causing lots of issues, too. Why? The short answer is that there is too much fuel on the ground...lots organic material that can burn for days...
Nevertheless, through grant participation and hard work, we are taking preventive measures to keep fire away at the 4-H Center. Certainly, fire is important for pocsin ecosystems - it clears undergrowth and helps to open serotinous (needs fire to open and sprout) pine cones. However, as is the case in Dare County, fire can get out of hand. the only fires I have ever known to be on site were controlled burns, which, as you know, are actually very valuable to wildlife. It is very helpful to songbirds and squirrels. Game birds, such as bobwhite quail will appreciate the cumbersome shrubs that prohibit takeoff on dense forests. Turkey, deer, and quail will also love the new shoots that are allowed to grow.
The fuel mitigation is also a great way to "mulch" your forests. Essentially, all of the organic matter, vines, and saplings are reduced to chips and pulp, which will eventually convert into soils or detritus...no hot fires once this is done! And a big, dangerous wildfire could be very dangerous to the Bulls Bay Community. Nevertheless, we are very proactive when it comes to conservation of wildlife, and protecting our neighborhood. The Center is a great "living laboratory" for effective wildlife management...
P.S. - A former staffer has started her own cooking blog - and it's about food. Even though she is Australian, she obviously has a lot of talent...click HERE to check out her blog...and it's name reminds me of a remark I made at 5 years old that my parents won't let go of...
Enjoy the day...
LeaderShape went well. Usually I help to facilitate with the teambuilding, which is unfortunate. Rachel, blonde-haired programmite learned exactly why: Generally, organizations want to put products out that are very similar, such as McDonalds (a big mac tastes the same everywhere, right?). the Program Staff here are all very similar in their facilitation skills, too...especially since they are under my tutelage. So, yep, they are pretty similar, until I jump in to the ring. I'm not saying I'm the greatest ever, but I'm certainly the best alive, as Rachel found out. Our "competition" between groups was a runaway...still, she, AJ, and Mea are very, very good at it...I'm just a notch or ten better.
Anyway, on to the title...today and everyday this week, the Forestry Commission is enacting it's fuel mitigation program on our facility. Mitigation basically means to recover. The fuel that they are recovering comes in the form of fallen logs and small standing saplings that are found throughout our facility. As many of you know, three years ago, the Evans Road wildfire caused lots of damage to an important ecosystem and caused air quality problems for much of us north of the flame. This year, the Dare County fire is also causing lots of issues, too. Why? The short answer is that there is too much fuel on the ground...lots organic material that can burn for days...
Nevertheless, through grant participation and hard work, we are taking preventive measures to keep fire away at the 4-H Center. Certainly, fire is important for pocsin ecosystems - it clears undergrowth and helps to open serotinous (needs fire to open and sprout) pine cones. However, as is the case in Dare County, fire can get out of hand. the only fires I have ever known to be on site were controlled burns, which, as you know, are actually very valuable to wildlife. It is very helpful to songbirds and squirrels. Game birds, such as bobwhite quail will appreciate the cumbersome shrubs that prohibit takeoff on dense forests. Turkey, deer, and quail will also love the new shoots that are allowed to grow.
The fuel mitigation is also a great way to "mulch" your forests. Essentially, all of the organic matter, vines, and saplings are reduced to chips and pulp, which will eventually convert into soils or detritus...no hot fires once this is done! And a big, dangerous wildfire could be very dangerous to the Bulls Bay Community. Nevertheless, we are very proactive when it comes to conservation of wildlife, and protecting our neighborhood. The Center is a great "living laboratory" for effective wildlife management...
P.S. - A former staffer has started her own cooking blog - and it's about food. Even though she is Australian, she obviously has a lot of talent...click HERE to check out her blog...and it's name reminds me of a remark I made at 5 years old that my parents won't let go of...
Enjoy the day...
May 20, 2011
Awesome 4-H Video
Been out for much of the week with busy happenings, but learned about this and wanted to share...
Enjoy the day...
Enjoy the day...
May 17, 2011
New Look
I'm tinkering with the look of the blog. It needed some modernization with the background, etc. However, I wasn't able to put my sitemeter on their for tracking...hopefully blogger can get me straight.
Nevertheless, let me know what you think, I can do pretty much anything...except monetize it or sell add space, but the only folks that would want to advertise are, well, nobody.
Leadershape is here...FINALLY! I'm really excited for them - also, Maria, former programmite and lifeguard will be in to hep supplement the staff for some programming. Patrick Kirkman will be in on Friday and Saturday to help us get started, too.
Leadershape is a very busy week...it's also a really cool program run by NC State. I'm glad that they like us as much as we like them, too.
I talked to my dad last night...he finally met my baby sister's (she's 20 - not really a baby) boyfriend, who he affectionately calls "Scrap Iron." I wonder what dad got called by my mom's father?
The daily temps here are starting to rise...an appropriate prelude to summer. Another prelude to summer is that some of my friends tell me about their impending vacations and cruises. While it's kind of a downer, I try to remember that waterfowl season is my vacation, and that my idea of a fun cruise is a boat ride up and down the Scuppernong or in the Croatan Sound to the Oregon Inlet Flats.
It's gonna be spotty showers and sun today...my least favorite weather - please, Mother Nature, have it one way or the other...but we especially need the rain today, and not tomorrow when we are doing programs.
Enjoy the day...
Nevertheless, let me know what you think, I can do pretty much anything...except monetize it or sell add space, but the only folks that would want to advertise are, well, nobody.
Leadershape is here...FINALLY! I'm really excited for them - also, Maria, former programmite and lifeguard will be in to hep supplement the staff for some programming. Patrick Kirkman will be in on Friday and Saturday to help us get started, too.
Leadershape is a very busy week...it's also a really cool program run by NC State. I'm glad that they like us as much as we like them, too.
I talked to my dad last night...he finally met my baby sister's (she's 20 - not really a baby) boyfriend, who he affectionately calls "Scrap Iron." I wonder what dad got called by my mom's father?
The daily temps here are starting to rise...an appropriate prelude to summer. Another prelude to summer is that some of my friends tell me about their impending vacations and cruises. While it's kind of a downer, I try to remember that waterfowl season is my vacation, and that my idea of a fun cruise is a boat ride up and down the Scuppernong or in the Croatan Sound to the Oregon Inlet Flats.
It's gonna be spotty showers and sun today...my least favorite weather - please, Mother Nature, have it one way or the other...but we especially need the rain today, and not tomorrow when we are doing programs.
Enjoy the day...
May 16, 2011
Weekend Highlights
So that I can stay focused, I'll try to revisit the events since last Thursday in the following order:
Kentucky 4-H Ambassadors Departure
Wild Catfish
Region Q
Bear Sightings
Sun Burn
The Kentucky 4-H Ambassadors departed early Friday morning - like 6:00 am early. I was up to see them and see them off. They were a wonderful group. They certainly would find themselves in the Pantheon of "Greatest Groups of All Time." It's always fun to show off and showcase the Inner and Outer Banks. Rachel, Programmite, really enjoyed herself with the group - they all formed a special bond. I always look forward to their visit. The youth have since posted Facebook Photo albums titled "The time of our Lives"...I can't make that stuff up...what can I say, maybe we are the best place to spend a week. In the world.
Friday afternoon, I took my BFF, Chris (who's now a nurse) to the Alligator. We put over in Gum Neck, and were gonna try to catch some White "Purchase". We took shrimp, feeshin' poles, and cookies. After several casts, I noticed that each pull through the stump field had a special little tug. Not being an accomplished angler, I set the hook, Bassmasters style and hooked a 4 pound blue cat, in the mouth, with the hook. It was fun to play the catfish on ultralight tackle. Nevertheless, I caught and released the behemoth.
Region Q, a collective group of late-teen, early twenty somethings from Beaufort, Washington and Martin Counties came in over the weekend. Our programmites led them through the challenge course, rock climbing, and archery. They had a great time, as did the staff. The rain that was supposed to fall, never did. We need the rain, but they needed to be outside for teambuilding.
As the wheat fields in and around Tyrrell County are getting "ripe" and cut, the bear sightings have increased dramatically. In fact, I have seen more big bears (400 lbs and up) than ever. Just this morning I saw a giant bruin out and about. I'm gonna take my programmites on a bear safari very soon.
Yesterday, when Region Q completed their programming, I took out yella dog out for a little outboard fun. The clouds eventually blew away, which allowed for my spf to get tested. It failed. I am enjoying a good burn, but it's not too bad, I have what the professional tanners call a "base tan". Good for me.
This week, Leadershape comes in for some tremendous fun. They are a perennial visitor and we really look forward to their arrival.
Enjoy the day...
Kentucky 4-H Ambassadors Departure
Wild Catfish
Region Q
Bear Sightings
Sun Burn
The Kentucky 4-H Ambassadors departed early Friday morning - like 6:00 am early. I was up to see them and see them off. They were a wonderful group. They certainly would find themselves in the Pantheon of "Greatest Groups of All Time." It's always fun to show off and showcase the Inner and Outer Banks. Rachel, Programmite, really enjoyed herself with the group - they all formed a special bond. I always look forward to their visit. The youth have since posted Facebook Photo albums titled "The time of our Lives"...I can't make that stuff up...what can I say, maybe we are the best place to spend a week. In the world.
Friday afternoon, I took my BFF, Chris (who's now a nurse) to the Alligator. We put over in Gum Neck, and were gonna try to catch some White "Purchase". We took shrimp, feeshin' poles, and cookies. After several casts, I noticed that each pull through the stump field had a special little tug. Not being an accomplished angler, I set the hook, Bassmasters style and hooked a 4 pound blue cat, in the mouth, with the hook. It was fun to play the catfish on ultralight tackle. Nevertheless, I caught and released the behemoth.
Region Q, a collective group of late-teen, early twenty somethings from Beaufort, Washington and Martin Counties came in over the weekend. Our programmites led them through the challenge course, rock climbing, and archery. They had a great time, as did the staff. The rain that was supposed to fall, never did. We need the rain, but they needed to be outside for teambuilding.
As the wheat fields in and around Tyrrell County are getting "ripe" and cut, the bear sightings have increased dramatically. In fact, I have seen more big bears (400 lbs and up) than ever. Just this morning I saw a giant bruin out and about. I'm gonna take my programmites on a bear safari very soon.
Yesterday, when Region Q completed their programming, I took out yella dog out for a little outboard fun. The clouds eventually blew away, which allowed for my spf to get tested. It failed. I am enjoying a good burn, but it's not too bad, I have what the professional tanners call a "base tan". Good for me.
This week, Leadershape comes in for some tremendous fun. They are a perennial visitor and we really look forward to their arrival.
Enjoy the day...
May 12, 2011
Small Dude Soaked in Albemarle
The last two days at the Center have been adventurous for me, to say the least. Kayaking with the Kentucky Ambassadors started calm enough. However, as soon as the first boat cut the water's surface, all rip breaks loose. Three foot rollers out of nowhere?! Only to me. M programmites, Rachel and Stephanie also took solace in knowing that I would again be soaked later in the day because they moved my ferry (canoe) that I use to get to my boat (which is anchored in deeper water). when the time arrived for me to pick my boat up, the canoe was gone...my patience, or lack thereof (thanks Dad), had me walking in waste deep water in my "good" shorts. Nevertheless, Lee showed up just in time to enjoy the show, and help out as little as possible.
Yesterday was Interpretive Pontoon Boat Ride Day. This is the day where Murphy's Law generally prevails in all matters concerning the notorious outboard motor. In my life I can count the varying troubles I have had with an outboard motor on my hands - and the hands of my 20 closest friends. Initially, the Pontoon was supposed to be ready on Friday...not so much. Alas, it was finally "fixed" on Wednesday. As we put the boat in, the fired up and roared...Whew. Nevertheless, I have had the boat break down on me in the past, which is absolutely no fun with a boat full of adults.
Yet, I continued, with the wind at my back and the spray in my face. I pulled to the dock, PFD'ed the riders, and took off for calmer waters. The boat performed exceptionally...we also saw the following species:
River Otter
Bald Eagle
Wood Ducks (Aix Sponsa)
Osprey
Turkey Vulture
Red wing blackbird
Bowfin
Fun times, but we all got wet in the 3 foot seas....
Enjoy the day...
Yesterday was Interpretive Pontoon Boat Ride Day. This is the day where Murphy's Law generally prevails in all matters concerning the notorious outboard motor. In my life I can count the varying troubles I have had with an outboard motor on my hands - and the hands of my 20 closest friends. Initially, the Pontoon was supposed to be ready on Friday...not so much. Alas, it was finally "fixed" on Wednesday. As we put the boat in, the fired up and roared...Whew. Nevertheless, I have had the boat break down on me in the past, which is absolutely no fun with a boat full of adults.
Yet, I continued, with the wind at my back and the spray in my face. I pulled to the dock, PFD'ed the riders, and took off for calmer waters. The boat performed exceptionally...we also saw the following species:
River Otter
Bald Eagle
Wood Ducks (Aix Sponsa)
Osprey
Turkey Vulture
Red wing blackbird
Bowfin
Fun times, but we all got wet in the 3 foot seas....
Enjoy the day...
May 9, 2011
My Birthday
My birthday was Saturday....I turned 28. The Dock of the Bay turned 9, I think. It was a decent birthday for the both of us. Eastern 4-H Center staff are dragging this morning, but a daylight to midnight sojourn (as was the case on Saturday), can leave a dude, or dudette, tired for days. Not me...
This week, the Kentucky 4-H Ambassadors are gonna come in and experience the coastal life...and I'm the unofficial tour guide. I'm lookin' forward to their visit...we'll do Forestry, Canoeing, and Challenge Course (plus a few more things), and they'll also head to the beach because, well, the Eastern 4-H Center does not have a beach...yet.
Out of my Top 10 Favorite people, 8 wished me a happy birthday. Shame on the other two. I'll protect their identity, but they'll know who they are if they read this paragraph.
Here's hoping the fire in southeast Dare County only has a few more hours to burn. Thankfully, the fire is southeast of us, and rarely do we get a breeze from that direction - so I don't have to smell like a chimney. I still easily remember the smoke plumes from the Evans Road fire of 2008...40,000 acres of burning trees and earth can leave smoke and ashes everywhere. The fire also banked all of the yellow flies and mosquitoes in our direction.
Enjoy the day...
This week, the Kentucky 4-H Ambassadors are gonna come in and experience the coastal life...and I'm the unofficial tour guide. I'm lookin' forward to their visit...we'll do Forestry, Canoeing, and Challenge Course (plus a few more things), and they'll also head to the beach because, well, the Eastern 4-H Center does not have a beach...yet.
Out of my Top 10 Favorite people, 8 wished me a happy birthday. Shame on the other two. I'll protect their identity, but they'll know who they are if they read this paragraph.
Here's hoping the fire in southeast Dare County only has a few more hours to burn. Thankfully, the fire is southeast of us, and rarely do we get a breeze from that direction - so I don't have to smell like a chimney. I still easily remember the smoke plumes from the Evans Road fire of 2008...40,000 acres of burning trees and earth can leave smoke and ashes everywhere. The fire also banked all of the yellow flies and mosquitoes in our direction.
Enjoy the day...
May 6, 2011
Quick Blog
A big weekend is just beyond the treeline....
- Dock of the Bay, America's pre-eminent beach music and educational center fundraiser will be Center Stage tomorrow....tickets available at the door are $50. Call today and get them for $40 apiece.
- Meeting in Raleigh yesterday was fun. And I gt to eat at Bojangles for the second day in a row. Boom.
- Thursdays meeting with Kent Hood of Rocking H Decoys, and board member for the Core Sound Decoy Carvers Guild was spectacular, as well. Any time I can talk tactics with a supporter of Camp Canvasback, I'm thrilled. And yes, we ate Bojangles. Kent and crew are looking to help our Camp Canvasback youth carve working, Core Sound decoys. Kent also donated a BEAUTIFUL Canvasback cork decoy for tomorrows auction, that will quickly get out of grasp for me.
- Friend and former Eastern 4-H Center staff, Chris Sova, graduates with his nursing degree on Wednesday. congrats to him. More importantly, he made his first traditional wire-and-canvas decoy yesterday, with my inspiration, of course.
- For those not going to Dock of the Bay, the fishing is allegedly spectacular. I went Thursday and caught nothing, though. They say the sound is filled with white and raccoon perch. Go try it out...and take a kid.
- Now I have to unload the vehicle for all of the Silent Auction items.
Enjoy the weekend...
- Dock of the Bay, America's pre-eminent beach music and educational center fundraiser will be Center Stage tomorrow....tickets available at the door are $50. Call today and get them for $40 apiece.
- Meeting in Raleigh yesterday was fun. And I gt to eat at Bojangles for the second day in a row. Boom.
- Thursdays meeting with Kent Hood of Rocking H Decoys, and board member for the Core Sound Decoy Carvers Guild was spectacular, as well. Any time I can talk tactics with a supporter of Camp Canvasback, I'm thrilled. And yes, we ate Bojangles. Kent and crew are looking to help our Camp Canvasback youth carve working, Core Sound decoys. Kent also donated a BEAUTIFUL Canvasback cork decoy for tomorrows auction, that will quickly get out of grasp for me.
- Friend and former Eastern 4-H Center staff, Chris Sova, graduates with his nursing degree on Wednesday. congrats to him. More importantly, he made his first traditional wire-and-canvas decoy yesterday, with my inspiration, of course.
- For those not going to Dock of the Bay, the fishing is allegedly spectacular. I went Thursday and caught nothing, though. They say the sound is filled with white and raccoon perch. Go try it out...and take a kid.
- Now I have to unload the vehicle for all of the Silent Auction items.
Enjoy the weekend...
May 4, 2011
Big Deals at Summer Camp
Boom! This summer at the Eastern 4-H Center's Summer Camp program, I am taking extra steps to go above and beyond other programs on the Atlantic Coast. Sure there are some great places to send your children for a week or two...but none better than here.
Here's what I'm working on:
Alligators: Yes, I am going to try to get alligators for the ecology program. It will do two things...confirm that, yes, alligators are present in Tyrrell County and allow youth to see on of the rarer species of animals in North Carolina. Currently, I'm in the process of securing the permits and setting up the tanks and food. No, they are not giant alligators...only hatchlings that were born in captivity. Now they'll be in "camp-tivity". This is the northern most range for the American Alligator. I have seen 'gators on multiple occasions, and even survived stepping on a wild alligator...they are exciting and powerful creatures. But the hatchlings are only about a foot long, so they are really "cute", but nevertheless very unique.
ABC's: Not the alphabet...but Atlantic Blue Crabs. The Programmites (Rachel and Stephanie have just completed the dynamic models, both Jimmys and Sooks for the initial instruction. However, after the "class time", campers will have the opportunity to go crabbin'. It's fairly simple - tie a chicken leg to a string, lower it into the water, wait for the ABC to tug, then list it out and scap it with the net. Voila.
Food Waste: Nope...were not going to waste food. We will, however, try to showcase how much potential food can be saved through a variety of programs before, during, and after various meals. Eventually, one cabin group will be known as the "Food Waste Warriors". Hopefully, they can be inducted into our Secret Scoggin Society. Don't ask...it's a secret.
Other than these, the same quality programs such as rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, teambuilding, target sports, and athletics will still hold their place on the menu of fun. Evening programs such as the Talent Show, International Night, Campfire S'mores, Dance, and Pool Party will also reign supreme as supper and sunsets go down...
Enjoy the day...
Here's what I'm working on:
Alligators: Yes, I am going to try to get alligators for the ecology program. It will do two things...confirm that, yes, alligators are present in Tyrrell County and allow youth to see on of the rarer species of animals in North Carolina. Currently, I'm in the process of securing the permits and setting up the tanks and food. No, they are not giant alligators...only hatchlings that were born in captivity. Now they'll be in "camp-tivity". This is the northern most range for the American Alligator. I have seen 'gators on multiple occasions, and even survived stepping on a wild alligator...they are exciting and powerful creatures. But the hatchlings are only about a foot long, so they are really "cute", but nevertheless very unique.
ABC's: Not the alphabet...but Atlantic Blue Crabs. The Programmites (Rachel and Stephanie have just completed the dynamic models, both Jimmys and Sooks for the initial instruction. However, after the "class time", campers will have the opportunity to go crabbin'. It's fairly simple - tie a chicken leg to a string, lower it into the water, wait for the ABC to tug, then list it out and scap it with the net. Voila.
Food Waste: Nope...were not going to waste food. We will, however, try to showcase how much potential food can be saved through a variety of programs before, during, and after various meals. Eventually, one cabin group will be known as the "Food Waste Warriors". Hopefully, they can be inducted into our Secret Scoggin Society. Don't ask...it's a secret.
Other than these, the same quality programs such as rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, teambuilding, target sports, and athletics will still hold their place on the menu of fun. Evening programs such as the Talent Show, International Night, Campfire S'mores, Dance, and Pool Party will also reign supreme as supper and sunsets go down...
Enjoy the day...
May 3, 2011
Look who's coming...
Well folks, as Dock of the Bay approaches, so does the end of Dock of the Bay. Sure, it's a big event that take a lot of fun, yet hard work...but it also symbolizes the unofficial beginning of another busy summer of summer camper at the Eastern 4-H Center.
Once Dock of the Bay concludes:
The Kentucky 4-H Ambassadors arrive on May 9...we'll do kayaking, forestry, interpretive boat rides...they'll also go to the beach for some sightseeing...mainly because they just don't have any beaches in Kentucky, unless you count those on the Mighty Mississip'....
As they Depart, the Region Q Youth Group will arrive. No, "We don't need no rest!" We'll be just fine. If anything, the groups that depart here usually leave exhausted from all the rip-romping we put them through. Life in the pocosin is hard, but unique...and showcasing that through fun programs is what we do better than any other similar facility. Nevertheless, I'm certain we'll have some fun teambuilding and outdoor rec to do with Region Q.
The Creswell Prom is also that weekend. I'm certain they'll find our waterfront as the perfect backdrop for Prom Pictures...
When Region Q and the prom cease, we'll open our doors to LeaderShape...one of the best college leadership programs in the state...their here for a week...last year, the NC State student president was on hand...
LeaderShape leaves, but only to drive right past Opening Doors, another NC State breakthrough program that leads diversity training workshops.
Then:
The Tyrrell-Washington Partnership for Children Banquet, followed by Lawrence Academy's activity day wrap up with Opening Doors.
After all of this fun, the EOG celebrations materialize, right at our own pool and gamefields for local elementary schools. This, along with Jackson Middle School finalize May Madness. But Jackson is actually in June.
We have some open days...well, two to be exact. May 23 is totally open, if you're looking to book a birthday party, activity day, or even a "shotgun wedding". But who gets married on a Monday (I could, I reckon). May 28 is the only other open day, and it would be more appropriate for a wedding, as it is a Saturday. However ,we can squeeze groups in to some great dates...just call and talk to our Reservationist - Nikki. She is the Keeper of the Calendar.
After May, Staff Training starts, then Summer Camp.
Enjoy the day...
Once Dock of the Bay concludes:
The Kentucky 4-H Ambassadors arrive on May 9...we'll do kayaking, forestry, interpretive boat rides...they'll also go to the beach for some sightseeing...mainly because they just don't have any beaches in Kentucky, unless you count those on the Mighty Mississip'....
As they Depart, the Region Q Youth Group will arrive. No, "We don't need no rest!" We'll be just fine. If anything, the groups that depart here usually leave exhausted from all the rip-romping we put them through. Life in the pocosin is hard, but unique...and showcasing that through fun programs is what we do better than any other similar facility. Nevertheless, I'm certain we'll have some fun teambuilding and outdoor rec to do with Region Q.
The Creswell Prom is also that weekend. I'm certain they'll find our waterfront as the perfect backdrop for Prom Pictures...
When Region Q and the prom cease, we'll open our doors to LeaderShape...one of the best college leadership programs in the state...their here for a week...last year, the NC State student president was on hand...
LeaderShape leaves, but only to drive right past Opening Doors, another NC State breakthrough program that leads diversity training workshops.
Then:
The Tyrrell-Washington Partnership for Children Banquet, followed by Lawrence Academy's activity day wrap up with Opening Doors.
After all of this fun, the EOG celebrations materialize, right at our own pool and gamefields for local elementary schools. This, along with Jackson Middle School finalize May Madness. But Jackson is actually in June.
We have some open days...well, two to be exact. May 23 is totally open, if you're looking to book a birthday party, activity day, or even a "shotgun wedding". But who gets married on a Monday (I could, I reckon). May 28 is the only other open day, and it would be more appropriate for a wedding, as it is a Saturday. However ,we can squeeze groups in to some great dates...just call and talk to our Reservationist - Nikki. She is the Keeper of the Calendar.
After May, Staff Training starts, then Summer Camp.
Enjoy the day...
May 2, 2011
Weekend notes...
Another weekend has come and gone here on the Inner Banks. I managed to fill it with some fun times, all while the Center played host to a couple of groups. Notably, the Columbia prom took place...others were wedding guests who took advantage of our spacious Executive Lodges to lay their heads. Stephanie was around to check them out first thing Sunday morning, while Lee was around for the Prom.
Concerning Prom: I'm not sure where all the Columbia boys take their girls for dinner (as is generally customary). I remember taking my prom date to White Villa, an alleged - and now closed - high end dining saloon in Sylacauga, Alabama. I ate trout and she ate the most expensive thing on the menu. Aside from that digression, I would imagine that since their are no "romantic" places in Columbia to eat, that dates would travel to Edenton or the beach. And your guess is as good as mine as to where they rent tuxes and limos. My bucket list includes owning my own tuxedo, yet I'm skeptical about the investment as I might have reached the prime of my life, where my physical condition has peaked. What a joke...I'm virtually invincible.
Rachel, one of the Programmites on staff, coerced myself and Stephanie (the other Programmite) into actually fulfilling her bucket list wishes. However, Stephanie and I believed that we were showcasing the beautiful coast to Rachel for the first time. However, she had snuck away to actually touch the Atlantic Ocean the day prior.
Nevertheless, we went to Ocracoke (where I practiced my "new" dialect) rode the ferry, bought souvenirs, walked the Beach, saw the "wild" ponies, saw 3 light houses, and ate seafood (except for Stephanie, who ate ribs). The trip was fun and we completed it in 12 hours.
Additionally, to cap off a good weekend, I awoke this morning to discover the Osama bin Laden is no longer a member of the human race. Our Armed Forces, and their special forces, do things each day to protect our freedoms and traditions, even our Summer Camp traditions. I'm very proud of what they have done, as this is probably the most significant event thus far in the War on Terror.
Enjoy the day...
Concerning Prom: I'm not sure where all the Columbia boys take their girls for dinner (as is generally customary). I remember taking my prom date to White Villa, an alleged - and now closed - high end dining saloon in Sylacauga, Alabama. I ate trout and she ate the most expensive thing on the menu. Aside from that digression, I would imagine that since their are no "romantic" places in Columbia to eat, that dates would travel to Edenton or the beach. And your guess is as good as mine as to where they rent tuxes and limos. My bucket list includes owning my own tuxedo, yet I'm skeptical about the investment as I might have reached the prime of my life, where my physical condition has peaked. What a joke...I'm virtually invincible.
Rachel, one of the Programmites on staff, coerced myself and Stephanie (the other Programmite) into actually fulfilling her bucket list wishes. However, Stephanie and I believed that we were showcasing the beautiful coast to Rachel for the first time. However, she had snuck away to actually touch the Atlantic Ocean the day prior.
Nevertheless, we went to Ocracoke (where I practiced my "new" dialect) rode the ferry, bought souvenirs, walked the Beach, saw the "wild" ponies, saw 3 light houses, and ate seafood (except for Stephanie, who ate ribs). The trip was fun and we completed it in 12 hours.
Additionally, to cap off a good weekend, I awoke this morning to discover the Osama bin Laden is no longer a member of the human race. Our Armed Forces, and their special forces, do things each day to protect our freedoms and traditions, even our Summer Camp traditions. I'm very proud of what they have done, as this is probably the most significant event thus far in the War on Terror.
Enjoy the day...
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